PURPOSE: At NewsUS24, we uphold the highest ethical standards in conducting our operations. This policy ensures that all associates conduct business with integrity, adhere to applicable laws, and prioritize the company’s interests over personal gain.
The following outlines our policy regarding (1) gifts, favors, entertainment, and payments given or received by NewsUS24 associates, (2) potential conflicts of interest, (3) confidentiality, and (4) additional ethical guidelines:
GENERAL POLICY APPLICATION
Gifts, Favors, and Payments by NewsUS24:
Gifts, favors, or payments may be provided at company expense if they meet these criteria:
- They align with accepted business practices.
- They are of limited value and cannot be interpreted as a bribe or payoff.
- They comply with applicable laws and widely accepted ethical standards.
- Public disclosure of the details would not embarrass NewsUS24.
Payments or compensation to associates of customers (or their families) outside of written contracts are against our policy.
Gifts, Favors, Entertainment, and Payments Received by Associates:
- Associates must not seek or accept gifts, favors, entertainment, or payments without a legitimate business purpose, nor accept personal loans (other than standard market-rate loans from lending institutions) from entities doing or seeking to do business with NewsUS24 or its competitors. Under this policy:
a. Associates may accept common business courtesies, including:- Lunches or dinners with vendors, occasionally including spouses, if initiated by the vendor.
- Small-value gifts like calendars, pens, or notepads from vendors.
- Event tickets (e.g., sports, arts) if offered by the vendor, who attends with the associate, and approved by a company officer.
- Overnight outings, if other companies or vendors are present, with prior approval from a company officer.
- Perishable holiday gifts (e.g., cookies, nuts) are acceptable; alcoholic beverages are discouraged.
b. Strict standards apply to gifts, services, or entertainment from suppliers: - Day outings (e.g., golf, fishing) are allowed with prior approval and vendor attendance; family participation is not permitted.
- Use of vendor facilities (e.g., vacation homes) for personal use is prohibited unless the vendor is present, limited to once per year (e.g., a long weekend), and approved by a company officer.
- Cash or cash-equivalent gifts (e.g., stocks, securities) are never permissible.
- Management associates must not accept gifts of more than minimal value from subordinates.
Conflicts of Interest:
Associates must avoid situations where personal interests conflict with NewsUS24’s interests. When dealing with customers, suppliers, competitors, or others, associates must act in the company’s best interest and disclose potential conflicts in writing to their manager. Examples include:
- Ownership of a significant interest in a business that interacts or competes with NewsUS24 by the associate or their family.
- Serving in a leadership or consulting role with an entity doing or seeking business with NewsUS24, unless approved by the Chief Executive Officer.
- Acting as a broker or intermediary for a third party in transactions involving NewsUS24.
- Any personal or family relationships that could compromise loyalty to NewsUS24.
Confidential Information:
The unauthorized disclosure or misuse of confidential information—including product details, company plans, or personnel data—is strictly prohibited. Violations will result in disciplinary action, up to and including immediate termination.
Compliance:
Violations of this policy may lead to disciplinary action or termination. Associates aware of violations must report them to management promptly. Each senior officer is responsible for ensuring compliance within their domain. For questions, contact the Vice President of Human Resources at NewsUS24.
Social Media Guidelines
Introduction:
Our social media policy is straightforward:
- Use good judgment.
- Nothing online is truly private.
- Maintain professionalism.
When posting on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, you’re making a public statement—recorded forever and potentially visible to all. Perception matters more than intent, so think carefully before you publish.
Understand Social Media:
Social media encompasses all online communication tools—blogs, social networks (e.g., Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn), wikis, forums, and more—whether affiliated with NewsUS24 or not.
Know and Respect Company Policies:
Familiarize yourself with this policy and the Employee Handbook. Inappropriate posts (e.g., discriminatory remarks, harassment, threats) will not be tolerated and may lead to termination.
Be Careful What You Post:
You’re accountable for your posts, which may remain public indefinitely. NewsUS24 is not liable for any consequences of your electronic communications.
Speak for Yourself, Not NewsUS24:
Posts reflect your personal views, not the company’s. If discussing NewsUS24 or its contacts, identify yourself as an employee and include a disclaimer: “Views are my own, not those of NewsUS24.”
Be Respectful and Professional:
Remain courteous and fair. Avoid malicious, obscene, or threatening content that could harm reputations or create a hostile environment. This policy respects legally protected activities, such as discussing workplace conditions under applicable laws.
Be Honest and Accurate:
Ensure accuracy in posts and correct mistakes quickly, noting any edits transparently.
Respect Laws and Confidentiality:
Adhere to copyright, privacy, and other laws. Do not share confidential NewsUS24 information without authorization, and seek permission before posting others’ content.
Report Concerns:
If you suspect a policy violation, contact Human Resources. Retaliation for reporting concerns is prohibited.
Plagiarism
At NewsUS24, we maintain a strict zero-tolerance policy against plagiarism, in line with journalistic integrity.
Fairness
Our reporters strive for balance by seeking responses from those facing negative accusations, presenting claims in detail, and allowing thorough rebuttals.
