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Business conduct
Our business has built its reputation on a strong foundation of ethical business practices, client service culture, and track record of responsible risk management.
Our customers, our employees, our shareholders and people in the communities where we live and work expect us to consistently engage in ethical business practices, continually demonstrate ethical culture and ethical behaviour, and carefully manage how personal information is handled and used, no matter how technology changes.
A firm foundation in our code of conduct
Our Code of Conduct (Code) is the foundation for all other BMO policies and procedures. More than a set of rules, the Code is our guide for ethical conduct and responsible decision-making. We make sure that everyone at BMO understands its intent, the values that inform it and the commitments it sets out as our ethical standard, so that each of us can do what’s right – even when we face difficult choices. Our code has five commitments that we must understand, agree to, and follow:
How our Code comes to life every day
Every year, all BMO employees must complete our Ethics, Legal and Compliance Training (ELCT), which covers a range of topics including ethical conduct, speaking up, information security and anti-corruption. We reinforce that training with ongoing communication to help ensure there’s a shared understanding of our collective responsibility to do what’s right, and to speak up candidly when we have questions or concerns. The Code is reviewed annually and updated at least biennially.
Our Supplier Code of Conduct sets out specific expectations related to supplier integrity, fair dealing and sustainability. It is updated every two years to address evolving trends, issues and legislative requirements.
Speak Up!
Our Whistleblower channel allows anyone, whether or not they are BMO employees, to report any suspicions of misconduct involving BMO or one of our service providers.
Privacy
Review our Global Privacy Principles and Privacy Codes to learn more about how we respect and protect the privacy and confidentiality of the personal information you have entrusted to us.
Governance
Our governance framework and practices support ethical conduct, sound decision-making and compliance with the laws and standards that apply to us.