Prior to the financial meltdown, bond ratings agencies were accused of having _____ because they were paid by the organizations that they rated. The organizations would shop around for the agency that gave them the best rating.

A) an unfair advantage
B) excessively complicated systems
C) a hostile workplace
D) conflicts of interest
E) an unprofitable business model

Bond Ratings Agencies

Organizations that assess the creditworthiness of both sovereign and corporate issuers of debt securities, providing investors with information on the risk level of their investments.

Conflicts of Interest

Situations in which a person's private interests could potentially interfere with their professional obligations or duties, leading to biased decisions.

Financial Meltdown

A severe and sudden downturn in the financial markets, often leading to a loss of asset values and financial instability.