Problem:
Imagine for a moment that you are an accountant for a large software company located in the Silicon Valley. You and your colleagues have been working diligently to prepare the annual report for the stockholder's meeting. You have concluded that profits will be down 30% from your projections and most likely management will be faced with a major layoff and downsizing. The outlook for the next year is not good. Upon returning home you listen to your phone messages. Your parents, who are retired and living on a limited fixed income, have left a message telling you that they have just invested a substantial portion of their assets in your company hoping to increase their monthly income from stock dividends. You know that after the annual meeting the stock will plummet. The dilemma you face is obvious.
1) What is the ethical thing to do? Will you conceal or disclose the information you are privy too?
2) Suggest 2-3 creative solutions.