WHAT WOULD YOU DO 5-19 (On the Train) You are the treasurer and a member of the board of directors of a nonprofit that is considering a merger with another exempt organization. You are on the way back from a business meeting and notice there are another person two rows away talking loudly into their phone. Just about everybody on the train can hear his conversation. When you overhear a name mentioned, your ears perk up-the loud talker is the chief negotiator for the organization you are negotiating with! You have never met this man, but it is very clear who he is. He appears to be talking with other members and planning strategy. You believe that the loud talker is also a CPA.

What ethical standards have been violated?

Is it ethical for you to use the information you are overhearing?