What is the primary purpose of the CFTC's 'whistleblower program'?

The primary purpose of the CFTC's whistleblower program is to encourage individuals to report potential violations of the Commodity Exchange Act and other related laws. By rewarding those who come forward with credible information that leads to successful enforcement actions, the program seeks to foster a culture of compliance and integrity within the markets. This incentive structure is crucial, as it provides whistleblowers with financial motivation to disclose wrongdoing that may otherwise go unreported, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of regulatory oversight.

This approach not only helps the CFTC identify and address misconduct more efficiently but also protects the integrity of the markets, ensuring that all participants operate under fair and transparent conditions. The financial rewards can be significant, depending on the outcomes of the investigations, thus emphasizing the program's effectiveness in eliciting vital information from knowledgeable insiders.