The Fallout From Walmart’s Ongoing FCPA Investigation

Walmart’s ongoing trials and tribulations demonstrate that anti-corruption violations can have ramifications far beyond the costs of a fine or penalty.  More than two years after Walmart’s anti-corruption troubles began, it is still suffering significant collateral consequences.  The retail giant has been deeply embroiled in a wide-ranging internal investigation since its 2011 SEC disclosure of possible FCPA violations, followed by the 2012 New York Times report that Walmart had paid over $24 million in bribes in Mexico.  The company has poured hundreds of millions of dollars into the investigation, overhauled its compliance program and personnel, and has faced criticism regarding the independence of its board, with Institutional Shareholder Services recommending that the company take actions to improve transparency and independence.  The company has also been the subject of ongoing civil litigation related to the bribery allegations.  See “How to Anticipate and Manage Collateral Litigation after an FCPA Investigation Becomes Public” (Aug. 21, 2013). 

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