Financial Transparency Coalition

Washington Times: One of the key corruption charges against former Rep. William J. Jefferson may turn largely on the actual reason that nearly $100,000 ended up in his freezer.

Helmerich & Payne Inc. (H&P) has entered into an agreement with the Department of Justice to resolve improper payments by H&P to government officials in Argentina and Venezuela in violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA).

ALEXANDRIA, VA. - Federal Judge T.S. Ellis III summoned prosecution and defense lawyers for a hearing late this afternoon that likely will include discussion, and possibly rulings, on defense motions to drop 15 of the 16 corruption charges against former Rep. William Jefferson and the question on how he should instruct the jury that will decide his fate.

A decision of Swedish furniture retailer IKEA to suspend further investment in Russia because of corruption is a sign that business here is still fraught with risks for international investors. While President Dmitry Medvedev has taken a clear position on anti-corruption and introduced legislation to curb official bribery, the reality is that corruption continues on a massive scale in the economy and society. However, IKEA’s response to the corruption challenge — to reduce further investment rather than pull out altogether — suggests that the risks can be managed. International companies and governments have an important role to play in...