Dominion Bond Rating Service has published a formal code of conduct.

The policy reflects a summary of the extensive range of policies, procedures, and internal controls that DBRS has implemented to ensure the independence, objectivity, and integrity of its ratings and the transparency of its operations, it says.

DBRS says that the code also reflects its long-standing adherence to the provisions of the Code of Conduct Fundamentals for Credit Rating Agencies developed the International Organization of Securities Commissions. Published in December 2004, the IOSCO Code is a framework of practical measures designed to improve investor protection and the fairness, efficiency, and transparency of the securities markets and to reduce systemic risk.