• A related party transaction is an arrangement between two parties that have a prior business relationship.

  • Some, but not all, related party transactions involve a potential conflict of interest and are subject to scrutiny by regulators.
  • Uncontrolled misuse of related party transactions can lead to fraud and financial ruin for all parties involved.
  • US regulators ensure that transactions with related parties are free from conflict and do not adversely affect the shareholder value or earnings of a corporation.