The states said they have reached tentative settlement agreements with HarperCollins and Hachette.

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Money managers also regularly enter into confidential settlement agreements with institutional clients who have been victims of illegal or unethical manager conduct.

FORBES: Hidden Crimes; Too Many Secrets: How Money Managers Hide Illegalities From Investors (August 1, 2000)

The plaintiffs and BP "believe that the settlement agreements are a fair, reasonable and adequate resolution of the claims, " the company said.

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The SEC has ignored the effects of confidential settlement and restrictive employment agreements upon the money management industry for too long.

FORBES: Hidden Crimes; Too Many Secrets: How Money Managers Hide Illegalities From Investors (August 1, 2000)

This week's ruling partially relaxes those criteria, making it easier for spouses, especially rich ones, to rely on agreements that keep specific assets outside a divorce settlement.

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