Scott works for a regional brokerage firm. He estimates that Walkton Industries will increase its dividend by $1.50 a share during the next year. He realized that this increase is contingent on pending legislation that would, if enacted, give Walkton a substantial tax break. The U.S. representative for Walkton's home district has told Scott that, although he is lobbying hard for the bill and prospects for passage look good, Congress's concern over the federal deficit could cause the tax bill to be voted down. Walkton has not made any statements regarding a change in dividend policy. Scott writes in his research report, "We expect Walkton's stock price to rise by at least $8.00 a share by the end of the year. Because the dividend will increase by $1.50 a share, the stock price gain will be fueled, in large part, by the increase in the dividend. Investors buying the stock at the current time should expect to realize a total return of at least 15 percent on the stock." Which of the following is/are true?
I. Scott violated the Standards because he used material inside information.
II. Scott violated the Standards because he failed to separate opinion from fact.
III. Scott did not violate the Standards.
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A. B. C. D.B
This question relates to Standard IV (A.2), Research Reports. Scott issued a research report stating that the stock price of Walkton is expected to rise to $8 a share "because the dividend will increase by $1.50 a share." Yet, he made this assertion fully aware the dividend will increase only if Congress enacts certain legislation, which is an uncertain prospect. By stating that the dividend will increase, Scott failed to separate fact from opinion. The information on the passing of legislation is not material inside information because it does not come from or pertain to company operations.