In a significant decision announced last week, the Department of Justice (DOJ) declined to prosecute a private equity (PE) firm after the firm voluntarily disclosed sanctions and export control violations committed by a portfolio company the firm acquired. This result, and the government’s joint enforcement actions against the portfolio company and its former CEO, offer several important takeaways:

• It is critical for PE firms to conduct robust, non-siloed due diligence for trade and other compliance both before and after acquisition.

• Sanctions and export controls enforcement remains a key government focus, as evidenced by the extensive behind-the-scenes coordination between Justice, Treasury, Commerce, and Homeland Security.

• It is not uncommon for private equity firms to acquire a company and then discover hidden problems. Firms that promptly investigate, self-report, cooperate, and remediate can avoid criminal prosecution, even for serious violations.

• The government continues to hold individuals personally responsible for violations of sanctions and export controls regulations.

On April 1, 2025, the SEC approved the launch of the Green Impact Exchange (the GIX), which will be the first sustainability-focused stock exchange in the United States. Trading on the GIX is expected to begin in early 2026. The exchange aims to provide a marketplace for environmentally responsible companies and attract investors committed to advancing environmental sustainability.

An essential element of the Winston University experience for associates is the firm’s mentoring program, which helps associates gain valuable insights to advance their careers.