What is the main purpose of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act?

The main purpose of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, often referred to as SOX, is to protect investors through improved corporate disclosures. Enacted in response to major financial scandals in the early 2000s, this legislation aims to enhance the accuracy and reliability of financial reporting from corporations. By establishing stricter requirements for financial practices and disclosures, SOX seeks to restore public confidence in the integrity of financial statements and corporate governance. This includes measures like requiring certification of financial reports by CEOs and CFOs, increased penalties for fraudulent financial activity, and greater transparency in financial reporting.

The other options present functions that, while related to corporate governance and securities regulation, do not encapsulate the primary intent of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. For example, while SOX does touch on corporate governance and financial practices, its core focus is the protection of investors through enhanced disclosures, which sets it apart from those other aspects.