1. How did Ralph Lauren violate the FCPA?
2. Why did Ralph Lauren receive less severe penalties for the misconduct?
3. How can the Ralph Lauren bribery case set a precedent for other firms when discovering misconduct?

Ralph Lauren Corporation discovered that from 2005–2009, bribes were paid to customs and government officials in Argentina in the form of cash, dresses, handbags, and perfume to expedite processes of merchandise in the South American country. This misconduct violates the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), which makes it illegal for companies with operations in the United States to bribe foreign officials. When Ralph Lauren discovered the bribery, it immediately reported the misconduct to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and worked with government authorities in the investigation. By turning itself in, Ralph Lauren received applause from several SEC officials, who deemed the company’s actions ethical. This case demonstrates that it pays to comply with the law when misconduct is discovered.