The Sarbanes-Oxley Act is enforced by which entity?

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act, often referred to as SOX, is primarily enforced by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC is a federal agency responsible for regulating the securities industry and enforcing federal securities laws. Its role includes overseeing the adherence to the provisions set forth in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, which aims to enhance corporate governance and accountability by imposing stricter regulations on financial disclosures and practices.

The SEC's enforcement powers allow it to investigate non-compliance, impose penalties, and ensure that publicly traded companies adhere to the financial reporting standards mandated by the act. This enforcement capability is crucial for maintaining investor confidence, as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act was enacted in response to major accounting scandals that shook the financial markets.