ABSTRACT
Th e fi nancial services sector plays an intrinsic role in the well-being of the consumer and the nation. Recent history has shown that the marketplace does not and should not serve as the mechanism for preventing and correcting unfair and unsound business practices. Th e marketplace does not ensure the free and uninhibited fl ow of information and products, it is imperfect. Blacks and Hispanics and other minorities seeking credit may be treated diff erently from similarly situated Whites. Females may not always receive the information needed to make appropriate investment decisions. Consumers, regardless of race or gender, may be misled and steered to buying inappropriate products because companies and sales persons stand to make commissions or garner fees.
