The bill is being pushed by two main US Congress members. Republican Matt Gaetz and Democrat Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez (AOC). Rather surprising considering the current political climate both globally and in the United States. However, seeing both aisles of the political spectrum actually find common ground and collaborating should, ideally, send a message to those who do not believe that strides forward can be achieved. Unfortunately, considering that Congress has to pass this bill, it is unlikely that it will pass and become law. Reason is quite simple, those who do practice insider trading would be imposing a restriction on themselves. But this should not take away the credit that both Gaetz and AOC deserve. The division that has been seen politically in the west as of the last 7 years or so is deeply troubling. And seeing collaboration between stalwarts of both parties is a good sign.

Gaetz has been quoted saying he would “work with anyone and everyone to ensure that Congress is not so compromised” in a discussion with Fox News. The bill is proof that he is staying true to his word. I believe that this bill is a great move forward as it lessens the ability of politicians to perform what is called insider trading. And not only that, but politicians are supposed to be public servants. Their job is to serve the public and not to enrich themselves doing so. They get paid plenty just for their position, they do not need to invest in the stock market, nor is it fair, since they cheat the system. It is corrupt, dishonest, and often untransparent. Although some would argue that in a free market economy, everyone should be allowed to trade, I believe politicians should be the only exception. There must be some measures put in place that restrict politicians as they already have too much power and privilege.

It can also lead to conflicts of interest that those politicians do not disclose. An example of this type of trading is veteran Democrat politician Lois Frankel’s activities in the market of late. In her case, she sold stock of the First Republic bank 4 days before it collapsed and bought JPMorgan Chase stocks which are currently in the process of buying up all of First Republic’s assets.

In other words, it is great to see collaboration on such a scale and on such a litigious issue. Insider trading has been talked about for years but never has there been a bill like this proposed to oppose it, much less a bipartisan bill. I hope this bill helps the public wake up to the abuse of the system the politicians practice, even if it does not pass.

This article was written by an independent writer whose views are not associated with The Third Eye. The Third Eye strives to be the student’s voice, and that entails giving them a platform to voice their opinions.

The post The right and the left collaborate for once: the stock trading bill appeared first on The Third Eye.

Sometimes even a send-off to Europe isn’t enough to thaw away the stresses UM has dealt you. In that case, a 10-day getaway across the pond to NYC and DC will be just the elixir you need. Be it taking in the iconic landmarks you saw in countless series and films or literally taking in the delicacies the Big Apple has to offer; you’ve got 4 days to fulfil your Friends aspirations and perfect your New Yorker accent.

Soon after you’ll be heading down to the capital to get down to business (quite literally). ASCS have booked a specially designed 6-day programme at George Mason University brimming with activities, visits, seminars and workshops. After almost a week focused on business and commerce you’ll come out the other end ready to conquer Wall Street. Of course there’ll still be plenty of free time to relish in what the capital has to offer.

Having already been to the US twice ASCS’s own Daniel Calamatta admits to the “inspiring allure to New York City’s commercialised and 24/7 lifestyle, and the political power than one feels in Washington DC.”

Daniel is extremely proud that ASCS were able to give this opportunity to students, as he stresses “the importance of leaving not only our shores for a few days, but also discovering what continents beyond Europe have to offer.” That said he hopes that ASCS have raised the standard for other university trips being offered on campus.

If you’re tempted, act quickly because tickets are on a first-come, first-served basis and applications just opened today! We leave on April 10th which is just enough time for you to save up the €890 you need for the trip. The seats are very limited and they’re going quick, but for all the latecomers ASCS will be launching another batch – for €990 this time, if and when the first batch is sold out. For all the details about how you can take this proper break from uni, check out the event page for This is America: ASCS Student Exchange 2019.

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