Which act mandates internal controls for publicly traded companies?

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act is the legislation that mandates internal controls for publicly traded companies, particularly focusing on the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting. Enacted in response to high-profile accounting scandals, such as those involving Enron and WorldCom, the Act requires companies to establish and maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting.

Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act notably requires management to assess and report on the effectiveness of these internal controls, emphasizing the importance of corporate governance and accountability in financial processes. This provision aims to protect investors and restore trust in the financial markets by ensuring that companies are held responsible for the accuracy of their financial statements and the effectiveness of their internal control systems.

The other acts listed do address various aspects of finance and trading but do not specifically mandate internal controls for publicly traded companies in the same comprehensive manner as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.