Which principle states that clients' interests must always come first?

• A. Professionalism
• B. Trustworthiness, Honesty, and Fairness
• C. Duty of Care
• D. Confidentiality

Answer: (B)

The principle that states clients' interests must always come first is grounded in the concept of Trustworthiness, Honesty, and Fairness. This principle emphasizes the ethical obligations of dealer representatives to prioritize their clients' needs and interests in all dealings. By adhering to this principle, professionals demonstrate that they value the trust placed in them by their clients and are committed to acting in their best interests, even over their own. This foundational approach is critical for fostering strong relationships and ensuring the integrity of the financial services industry.

While professionalism encompasses a broad standard of conduct expected from individuals in the field, it does not specifically focus on placing clients' interests first. The Duty of Care principle emphasizes the responsibility of the representative to act with a certain level of competence and diligence, but it does not explicitly address prioritizing the clients' interests. Confidentiality refers to the obligation to keep client information private, which is important but again does not encapsulate the idea of prioritizing clients' interests above all else.