Global Employee Code Of Conduct
Mercatus Research Pvt. Ltd.
1. Introduction
Mercatus Research Pvt. Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “the Company”) is committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethics and integrity in all our business dealings. This Global Employee Code of Conduct (the “Code”) outlines the ethical principles and standards that all employees, officers, and directors (collectively, “Employees”) are expected to adhere to while representing the Company.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this Code is to:
- Promote honest and ethical conduct.
- Foster a culture of transparency and accountability.
- Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Protect and enhance the Company’s reputation.
3. Scope
This Code applies to all Employees of Mercatus Research Pvt. Ltd., regardless of their location or position within the Company. It also extends to all subsidiaries, affiliates, and joint ventures where the Company has a controlling interest.
4. Core Values and Principles
- Integrity: Act with honesty and integrity in all business interactions.
- Respect: Treat all colleagues, clients, and partners with respect and dignity.
- Compliance: Adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and Company policies.
- Confidentiality: Protect the confidentiality of Company information and client data.
- Accountability: Take responsibility for your actions and decisions.
5. Professional Conduct
- Conflict of Interest: Avoid any situation that could create a conflict between personal interests and the interests of the Company. Disclose any potential conflicts to your supervisor or the Compliance Department.
- Gifts and Hospitality: Do not offer or accept gifts, entertainment, or other benefits that could influence business decisions or create a sense of obligation.
- Fair Dealing: Conduct business fairly, honestly, and transparently. Do not engage in unfair practices, such as misrepresentation or manipulation.
- Respectful Workplace: Foster a work environment free of harassment, discrimination, and bullying. Report any incidents of inappropriate behavior to Human Resources.
6. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
- Anti-Bribery and Corruption: Strictly prohibit bribery, corruption, and any form of improper payment or advantage. Comply with all applicable anti-bribery laws, including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and the UK Bribery Act.
- Insider Trading: Do not engage in insider trading or share non-public information that could influence the market value of the Company’s securities.
- Antitrust and Competition: Adhere to antitrust and competition laws. Do not engage in practices that restrict competition or create unfair advantages.
7. Protection of Company Assets
- Use of Company Property: Use Company assets, including physical property, intellectual property, and financial resources, responsibly and for legitimate business purposes only.
- Data Security: Protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of Company data. Follow all data security policies and report any data breaches immediately.
- Intellectual Property: Respect and protect the intellectual property rights of the Company and third parties.
8. Reporting and Whistleblowing
- Reporting Violations: Report any violations of this Code, Company policies, or applicable laws to your supervisor, the Compliance Department, or through the designated whistleblowing channels.
- No Retaliation: The Company prohibits retaliation against anyone who, in good faith, reports a suspected violation or participates in an investigation.
9. Training and Acknowledgment
All Employees are required to complete periodic training on the Code and acknowledge their understanding and commitment to adhere to its principles.
10. Enforcement and Discipline
Violations of this Code may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. The Company reserves the right to pursue legal remedies for breaches of this Code.
11. Amendments and Waivers
This Code may be amended from time to time by the Company’s Board of Directors. Waivers of any provision of this Code may only be granted by the Board or a designated committee and will be disclosed as required by law.
12. Conclusion
Adherence to this Code is fundamental to maintaining the trust and confidence of our clients, partners, and stakeholders. Each Employee has a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and to contribute to the success and reputation of Mercatus Research Pvt. Ltd.
For questions or further guidance, please contact the Compliance Department.
Mercatus Research Pvt. Ltd.
Effective Date: [01 April 2024]