Under what condition is it ethical to disclose client information?

Disclosing client information is primarily governed by the principles of confidentiality and trust that form the foundation of the advisor-client relationship. Ethical standards dictate that client information should be kept confidential and only shared under specific, justified circumstances. One of the most important conditions for ethical disclosure is obtaining explicit consent from the client. This consent ensures that the client agrees to the sharing of their information and understands the potential consequences.

Obtaining explicit consent not only aligns with ethical guidelines but also fosters a transparent and trusting relationship between the advisor and the client. It allows clients to maintain control over their personal information and makes them feel valued and respected in the professional relationship.

In contrast, the other options suggest motivations that prioritize the advisor's interests or benefits, which do not align with the ethical standards expected in such relationships. These alternatives indicate a potential breach of trust and ethical obligations, as they prioritize the advisor's agency or profitability over the client's interests and rights to confidentiality.