Research Standards.
These principles govern every investigation we publish and every engagement we accept. They are not marketing language — they are working constraints.
Primary Sources First
Registries, filings, FDA documents, and peer-reviewed publications decide. Press releases, decks, and media coverage are claims to be tested — never evidence.
Evidence Over Narrative
A compelling story is not data. When the narrative and the dataset diverge, the dataset wins — regardless of how widely the narrative has been repeated.
Separate Facts From Interpretation
Every report distinguishes documented fact, sourced inference, and open question. Readers can see exactly where evidence ends and analysis begins.
Document Every Material Claim
Each material statement carries a citation a reader can independently verify. Unsupported assertions do not survive internal review.
Present Contrary Evidence
If the primary record supports the company, we say so. Every report includes an explicit section on evidence supporting the company — not only evidence contradicting it.
Correct Material Errors
When we get something wrong, we correct it promptly, visibly, and with a documented record of the change. See our Corrections Policy.
Disclose Conflicts
Any position, relationship, or financial interest that could reasonably be seen as influencing a conclusion is disclosed. See our Conflict of Interest Policy.
No Pay-to-Praise Research
We do not accept payment from companies we cover in exchange for favorable conclusions. Coverage is never for sale — positive or negative.
Language We Use
Unsupported claim · material inconsistency · scientific red flag · commercial exaggeration · requires further verification · potentially misleading presentation · possible fraud indicator.
Language We Avoid
Unsubstantiated accusations of fraud, certainty beyond the data, and conclusions detached from documentary evidence. Strong language only when documentation clearly supports it.
Why It Matters
Precise language is what makes an investigation usable by investors, counsel, and journalists — and what makes it survive scrutiny after publication.
Hold Us To It
Every report we publish is checkable against its source appendix. Start with our report methodology, then test a sample case file.