When using third-party research with potential biases, what is the required practice?

• A. Accept it without verification
• B. Ignore third-party biases
• C. Verify accuracy and relevance; disclose biases
• D. Rely solely on internal sources

Answer: (C)

When third-party research may be biased, you must verify its accuracy and relevance and disclose any biases to the client. This means checking the methodology, data sources, time frame, and whether the conclusions fit the client's objectives and risk tolerance, and, when possible, comparing with independent sources to see if the findings hold up. If you identify biases—such as funding sources or conflicts of interest—you disclose them and explain how they could influence the results or recommendations. Documenting your assessment and, if needed, supplementing with additional evidence helps the client make informed decisions and preserves trust.

Accepting the research without verification or ignoring biases would rely on potentially distorted information, and relying solely on internal sources may miss important external perspectives and evidence.