What primarily drives Aflac's decision-making process?

The decision-making process at Aflac is fundamentally driven by the guidance established in the Aflac Code of Conduct. This code provides a framework for ethical behavior and outlines the company's commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability. By adhering to this code, Aflac ensures that its decisions align with the company's values and principles, fostering a culture of ethics among employees and stakeholders.

Emphasizing the Code of Conduct means that Aflac is focused on maintaining high ethical standards rather than pursuing personal gain, which would conflict with the company’s overarching principles. Additionally, while shareholder interests and legal regulations are important factors, they do not supersede the necessity for ethical guidance provided by the Code. Ultimately, the Code serves as the foundational reference point that influences all decision-making at Aflac, ensuring that the company operates consistently and responsibly within its ethical framework.