Answer: An independent third-party consultant

## Explanation According to the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS), verification is an independent review of a firm's claim of compliance with the GIPS standards. The key requirements are: 1. **Verification must be performed by an independent third party** - This ensures objectivity and impartiality in assessing compliance. 2. **CFA Institute does not perform verifications** - While CFA Institute sponsors and maintains the GIPS standards, it does not conduct verifications of individual firms. 3. **Internal auditors cannot perform verification** - Internal auditors are not considered independent because they are employees of the firm, which creates a conflict of interest. 4. **Independent third-party consultants are qualified** - These are external professionals who can provide an objective assessment of a firm's compliance with GIPS standards. Therefore, only an independent third-party consultant can perform verification of a firm's claim of compliance with the GIPS standards.

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