2017-2018 SEC whistleblowing review: insights and trends
Journal of Investment Compliance
ISSN: 1528-5812
Article publication date: 2 July 2018
Issue publication date: 14 August 2018
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this review is to unpack 2017-2018 US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) whistleblower developments and trends.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper draws on statistics in the SEC’s 2017 Annual Report to Congress on the Whistleblower Program and examines post-report SEC whistleblower activity, including three SEC whistleblower awards in March 2018 totaling $80 million+.
Findings
Several notable whistleblowing developments and trends have emerged in recent years, including an increase in total tips; an increase in international tips; higher-value awards, including multiple awards in excess of $20m; and interest in punishing companies that discourage and/or retaliate against whistleblowers. In addition, the SEC recently issued its first-ever award under the Exchange Act’s “safe harbor” provision.
Originality/value
This paper contains valuable insights about the activities and priorities of the SEC Office of the Whistleblower from experienced securities and white-collar-litigation lawyers.
Keywords
Citation
Meshulam, D., Ramos, L. and Klein, B. (2018), "2017-2018 SEC whistleblowing review: insights and trends", Journal of Investment Compliance, Vol. 19 No. 2, pp. 5-7. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOIC-04-2018-0029
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018 DLA Piper LLP (US).