Which of the following is a Principle of the CFP Board of Standards Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility?

• A. Continuing Education
• B. Diligence
• C. Discipline
• D. Disclosure

Answer: (B)

Diligence is the principle that guides professional behavior with careful, thorough, and persistent effort on behalf of clients. In the CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct, Diligence expresses the commitment to maintain competence, stay current through ongoing education, thoroughly analyze a client’s situation, and follow through on recommendations with care. It emphasizes acting with diligence in all client interactions, ensuring that advice is well-supported, timely, and in the client’s best interests.

The other terms describe obligations or components of the framework rather than a named Principle. Continuing Education reflects the ongoing training needed to stay competent, not a principle itself. Discipline refers to possible sanctions for violations, not a guiding principle. Disclosure relates to providing information to clients, which is part of the standards but not the principle itself.