单选题 Alex, CFA, is a portfolio manager at OLC Asset Manager, which specializes in managing labor union pension fund accounts. A friend of Alex's who is an investment banker asks Alex to purchase shares in their new IPOs in order to support the price long enough for insiders to liquidate their holdings. Alex realizes that the price of the shares will almost certainly fall dramatically after his buying support ceases. DLC management "strongly suggest" that Alex "not rock the boat" and honor the investment banker's request since DLC has had a long-standing relationship with the investment bank. Alex agrees to make the purchase. Which of the following statements is most likely to be correct?

• A. Alex has not violated the Code and Standards.
• B. Alex has violated the Code and Standards by attempting to distort prices.
• C. Alex has violated the Code and Standards by failing to place orders in the appropriate transaction priority.