Apple Board Responds to ex-CFO Claims

· by · News

In an uncharacteristic move, Apple Incis Board of Directors responded to the accusations from former CFO Fred Anderson that Steve Jobs was aware of the implications of improperly backdating stock option grants. The board said in a statement that Apple will not enter into a debate with Mr. Anderson or his attorneys over Mr. Jobsis involvement in the backdating issue.

The statement from board members Bill Campbell, Millard Drexler, Albert Gore Jr., Arthur D. Levinson, Eric Schmidt and Jerry York stated in part "Steve Jobs cooperated fully with Appleis independent investigation and with the governmentis investigation of stock option grants at Apple. The SEC investigated the matter thoroughly and its complaint speaks for itself, in terms of what it says, what it does not say, who it charges, and who it does not charge."

In essence, the Apple Board responded to Mr. Andersonis allegations to state that it would not respond.

After agreeing to a settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Tuesday, Mr. Anderson released a statement through his lawyer claiming that he advised Mr. Jobs of the accounting implications when backdating stock option grants - Implying that Mr. Jobs was directly involved in improper stock option grant backdating and was aware of the possible consequences.

The board also stated "We have complete confidence in the conclusions of Appleis independent investigation, and in Steveis integrity and his ability to lead Apple."

Jeff Gamet

Jeff Gamet

Jeff is the Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and co-host of the Apple Context Machine podcast. He is the author of "The Designer's Guide to Mac OS X" from Peachpit Press, and writes for several design-related publications. Jeff has presented at events such as Macworld Expo, the RSA Conference, and the Mac Computer Expo. In all his spare time, he also co-hosts the We Have Communicators podcast, and makes guest appearances on several other podcasts, too. Jeff dreams in HD.

Sign Up for the Newsletter

Enter a valid email address

Join the TMO Express Daily Newsletter to get the latest Mac headlines in your e-mail every weekday.

Adding to list…

No Comments

Add your comment

Commenting is not available in this channel entry.