Professional skepticism is at the heart of quality auditing — yet not every auditor who applies it gets recognition. The article Who Rewards Appropriate Levels of Professional Skepticism? by Brazel, Leiby, and Schaefer (2025) explores a critical but under-researched question: Who actually rewards auditors for being skeptical, even when their suspicions turn out to be […]
The article Cultivating Engaged Audit Teams: The Effect of the Lead Audit Partner’s Leadership Behaviors by Gabriel Dickey, Joseph Ugrin, and J. Lee Whittington explores the critical role of lead audit partners in fostering team engagement, a key factor in improving auditor well-being and audit quality. Drawing on data from 82 audit teams across three […]
Investigating the influence of auditors’ materiality threshold disclosures on employees’ decisions to report financial misconduct, the article The Unintended Consequences of Audit Materiality Disclosures on Whistleblowing Intentions by Mackenzie M. Festa, D. Kip Holderness, Jr., Megan M. Jones, and Richard A. Riley, Jr. highlights a critical organizational dynamic. Although these disclosures aim to improve transparency […]
As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, internal auditors are increasingly expected to assess not just technical controls, but also the broader maturity of their organization’s cybersecurity posture. The article Understanding Cybersecurity Maturity in Practice offers valuable insights into how cybersecurity maturity models are actually applied in organizational settings—and what this means for audit and governance […]
Amanuel Tadesse, Stephanie Walton, and Yiyang Zhang analyze how adopting the COSO 2013 internal control framework affects firms‘ cybersecurity risks. Their study COSO Framework Adoption and Cybersecurity Breaches underscores the framework’s advancements over the 1992 version, highlighting its stronger focus on cybersecurity, governance, and operational risk management, making it a vital tool for mitigating IT-related […]
Kevin Fulcer et al. explore the use of unsupervised learning techniques to enhance audit analytics by identifying anomalies as outliers in financial datasets in their article Application of Outlier Detection Methods in Audit Analytics. These methods enable auditors to uncover potentially high-risk transactions without the need for labeled outcomes, offering a scalable and efficient solution […]
In an era where environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting has emerged as a critical avenue for companies to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, the demand for reliable and transparent ESG reports has never been greater. However, the landscape of ESG assurance remains relatively uncharted, with research in this area still in its infancy. The […]
In the era of accounting data analytics, visual representation plays a key role in enhancing decision-making efficiency and effectiveness. A recent study by Shawn P. Granitto and Uday S. Murthy, published in the Journal of Information Systems, explores the optimal use of various graph types—specifically, line graphs, bar graphs, pie charts, and stacked column graphs—when […]
The Institute of Internal Auditors (The IIA) and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) have released a pivotal report titled Building a Best-in-Class Whistleblower Hotline, which delves into the essential elements of effective whistleblower hotline programs across global workplaces. This report aims to provide organizations with valuable benchmarking data and insights to enhance their […]
A recent study by Joseph F. Brazel, Matthew Starliper, and Yao Yu explores the intricate dynamics of management communication styles when disclosing material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting (ICFR). The research, published in Accounting Horizons, highlights significant findings that question how communication approaches can impact investor perceptions and decisions. Under Section 404 of […]
In a recent article by Nir Eisikovits, William C. Johnson, and Ariel Markelevich, published in Accounting Horizons, the authors tackle the rapidly growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in accounting and auditing, highlighting both the opportunities and risks that come with this technology. AI is already transforming accounting, taking over repetitive tasks like data entry […]
In a recent article by El’fred Boo, Kin Yew Low, Premila Gowri Shankar, and Hun-Tong Tan, published in Accounting Horizons, the authors explore how discussing specific audit procedures in the Critical Audit Matter (CAM) section of auditor reports can influence financial risk assessments. The focus is on whether these discussions help users maintain stable assessments […]
In a recent article by Jun Oh, P. Eric Yeung, and Bo Zhu, published in The Accounting Review, the authors explore how technology coopetition impacts firms‘ voluntary disclosures of innovation. Technology coopetition refers to the delicate balance between cooperation and competition that companies face when participating in technology standard-setting organizations (SSOs). According to the study, […]
In a recent article by Joseph F. Brazel, Matthew Starliper, and Yao Yu, published in Accounting Horizons, the authors investigate how management’s communication style when disclosing material weaknesses in internal control affects investor perceptions. Under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, management must disclose the effectiveness of their internal controls over financial reporting, but how […]
The recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Chevron v. NRDC has caused concern over its potential impact on the SEC’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) agenda. However, according to a recent article on Responsible Investor, legal experts believe that the fallout for the SEC’s ESG initiatives will be limited. The Chevron decision, which involved the […]
A recent study by Alice Annelin and Tobias Svanström, published in the International Journal of Auditing, delves into the complex effects of diversity within audit teams on both work quality and affective state outcomes. This research highlights how diversity in audit teams can simultaneously enhance and hinder different aspects of audit performance. The study explores […]
A new study conducted by Milad Soltani, Alexios Kythreotis, and Arash Roshanpoor, published in the International Journal of Accounting, Auditing and Performance Evaluation, delves into the intersection of national culture, prosperity index, and the effectiveness of the fraud triangle in preventing financial statement fraud (FSF). This comprehensive cross-country meta-analysis provides a nuanced understanding of how […]
As environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors gain prominence across industries, the defense sector is also adapting to these trends. A recent article by Strategy& (PwC) titled „The Evolving Role of ESG in the Defense Industry“ examines how ESG considerations are becoming integral to the defense industry’s operations and strategic planning. The defense industry has […]
A recent study by Florian Philipp Federsel, published in the International Journal of Auditing, provides insightful evidence on the impact of audit firm and audit partner rotations on financial auditing within the European Union. The paper explores whether these rotations contribute to a renewed perspective in audits, potentially enhancing audit quality and independence. Federsel’s research […]
A recent study by Mohan Fonseka, Omar Al Farooque, Xing Yang, and Wu Qilin, published in the International Journal of Auditing, examines the impact of internal control quality and mandatory internal control disclosure regulations on executive perks in Chinese firms. Spanning a dataset from 2008 to 2019, the research delves into how these factors influence […]
Gender diversity in corporate boardrooms is a critical topic in business ethics. A recent study by Schoonjans, Hottenrott, and Buchwald, published in the Journal of Business Ethics, titled „Welcome on Board? Appointment Dynamics of Women as Directors,“ explores the complex factors influencing the appointment of women to director positions. The study examines various factors, including […]
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) plays a crucial role in maintaining fair, orderly, and efficient markets while protecting investors and ensuring transparency. Part of its mandate involves taking action against firms and individuals that mislead investors or fail to comply with regulatory standards. Examples of these actions are shown in these two selected examples […]
The role of supervisors in shaping employee careers is crucial, particularly through performance evaluations. A recent study by Judith Künneke, titled „Supervisor Impact on Employee Careers: The Role of Rating Differentiation,“ published in The Accounting Review, delves into how supervisors‘ practices in rating differentiation can significantly influence career outcomes. The research provides valuable insights into […]
As part of its vision to create „A Europe fit for the digital age,“ the European Union has introduced the AI Act, a pioneering framework aimed at regulating artificial intelligence (AI) across member states. This regulation is crucial in managing the complexities and risks associated with AI, ensuring that its deployment is safe, ethical, and […]
The Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) system, introduced by the SEC, aimed to increase transparency and accessibility of corporate filings. However, a recent study titled „Unintended Real Effects of EDGAR: Evidence from Corporate Innovation“ by Michael Dambra, Atanas Mihov, and Leandro Sanz explores how this system has impacted corporate innovation in unexpected ways. […]
The world of auditing is constantly evolving, and how audit firms and individual partners report key audit matters (KAMs) can significantly impact financial transparency. A recent study by Rousseau and Zehms, titled „It’s a Matter of Style: The Role of Audit Firms and Audit Partners in Key Audit Matter Reporting,“ published in Contemporary Accounting Research, […]
The accounting profession continually evolves, adapting to global talent dynamics and regulatory landscapes. A recent study by Frost, Jing, Shang, and Su, published in Contemporary Accounting Research, titled “Foreign Labor and Audit Quality: Evidence from Newly Hired H‐1B Visa Holders,” explores a particularly intriguing facet of this evolution: the influence of foreign labor on audit […]
In the world of corporate communications, how and what information is disclosed to the public can significantly impact investor perceptions and market movements. The recent study by Cyrus Aghamolla and Kevin Smith, published in the Journal of Accounting and Economics, titled “Strategic Complexity in Disclosure,” dives into this very topic, unraveling the sophisticated strategies […]
A recent editorial essay by Gazi Islam and Michelle Greenwood delves into the ethical complexities surrounding Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and its impact on academic authorship. Published in the Journal of Business Ethics, the essay argues that GenAI draws on a “hypercommons” of collectively produced inputs and labor that are largely invisible or untraceable. This […]
A new study by Dain C. Donelson, Matthew Kubic, and Sara Toynbee, published in the Journal of Accounting and Economics, delves into the patterns of enforcement actions by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), uncovering a significant increase in activity in September each year. This phenomenon, termed the „September spike,“ suggests a potential inconsistency in […]
In the realm of accounting, the influence of national culture is profound and pervasive, shaping not just practices but also values and systems across different countries. This crucial relationship is the focus of a comprehensive study by Stephen B. Salter, Hong Kim Duong, and Gaurav Gupta, published in the Journal of International Accounting Research. The […]
The provision of tax services by auditors to their audit clients has long been a topic of debate, particularly concerning the implications for independence and objectivity. A recent study published in the Journal of the American Taxation Association by Zhuoli Axelton, Kerry K. Inger, Mollie E. Mathis, and Abbie E. Sadler, sheds light on how […]
In the nonprofit sector, where transparency and accountability are paramount, financial audits play a crucial role in shaping governance practices. Raphael Duguay’s study, published in The Accounting Review, offers significant insights into how audits impact the management and operational policies of nonprofit organizations. The study utilizes a sophisticated regression discontinuity design to explore how financial […]
The audit profession, known for its demanding busy seasons, faces scrutiny not only for the impact of high workloads on audit quality but also on its appeal as a career choice. This is highlighted in a recent study by Marlies de Vries and Roland F. Speklé, published in Behavioral Research in Accounting, which examines how […]
In the dense, often opaque world of corporate financial disclosures, the use of infographics is becoming increasingly prevalent, transforming how companies communicate complex financial data. A study by Theodore E. Christensen, Karson E. Fronk, Joshua A. Lee, and Karen K. Nelson, featured in the Journal of Accounting and Economics, takes a comprehensive look at this […]
In a thought-provoking article published in AUDITING: A Journal of Practice & Theory, Koen Derks, Jacques de Swart, Eric-Jan Wagenmakers, and Ruud Wetzels advocate for the adoption of Bayesian inference in auditing. The paper highlights the limitations of frequentist statistical methods, commonly used by auditors, in providing the robust statistical evidence required by audit standards. […]
A recent article published in the Journal of Applied Accounting Research by Praveen Kumar delves into the intricate relationship between executive compensation, corporate governance attributes, and voluntary disclosures. The study also examines the moderating role of audit quality in these dynamics. Utilizing data from 90 Indian firms listed on the S&P BSE index for the […]
In a recent announcement, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) disclosed settled charges against two investment advisers, Delphia (USA) Inc. and Global Predictions Inc., for falsely representing their use of artificial intelligence (AI). The firms have agreed to settle the charges by paying a total of $400,000 in civil penalties. The SEC’s Chair, Gary […]
In a thought-provoking article published in the Journal of Business Ethics, Susanne Ruckelshausen, Bernadette Kamleitner, and Vincent Mitchell investigate the ethical dilemmas surrounding the sharing of others‘ data through apps. Many consumers agree to app requests for access to their contacts or photos, unknowingly or disregarding the fact that this also grants access to others‘ […]
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, accounting firms are increasingly adopting digital decision aids (DDAs) to ensure consistency in audit methodologies and compliance with regulatory expectations. While these tools are promoted for their ability to streamline processes and enhance decision-making, there is a growing concern about the potential over-reliance on such systems, which can undermine […]
Whistleblowing provisions, corporate governance culture, and individual personality traits like Machiavellianism play critical roles in shaping responses to potential fraudulent activities within organizations. A recent study in the journal Behavioral Research in Accounting explores how these elements interact to influence the deterrence of unethical behavior in corporate settings. The study, conducted by D. Jordan Lowe […]
Robotic process automation (RPA) is reshaping the landscape of accounting practices, yet concerns regarding internal controls and governance surrounding RPA are becoming increasingly apparent. In a groundbreaking research article published in the Journal of Information Systems, Marc Eulerich, Nathan Waddoups, Martin Wagener, and David A. Wood present a pioneering framework aimed at addressing these concerns […]
In the ever-evolving landscape of finance, risk management stands as a cornerstone for stability and growth. With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, traditional approaches to risk management are undergoing a profound transformation. A recent working paper by Saqib Aziz from Rennes School of Business and Michael M. Dowling from Dublin City […]
In an era where robust internal controls are paramount for safeguarding information systems, companies are increasingly turning to innovative approaches to enhance IT security and data privacy training. However, traditional compliance training often falls short in engaging employees and effectively conveying critical concepts. In response to these challenges, Ryan J. Baxter, D. Kip Holderness, Jr., […]
During the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, every sector had to navigate rapid changes, not least the world of accounting. A recent study by Emilio Boulianne, Annie Lecompte, and Mélissa Fortin, published in „Accounting and the Public Interest,“ explores how pivotal actors within the accounting industry—namely the Big 4 accounting firms, professional accounting associations, […]
Recent research by Bidisha Chakrabarty, Michael Hyman, and Gopal V. Krishnan has shed light on how auditors react to non-financial misconduct within corporations. Their study, published in the International Journal of Auditing, utilizes a novel database to track penalties from federal, state, and local agencies for violations not directly related to financial reporting. The findings […]
In a world where data proliferates at an unprecedented rate, understanding and managing alternative data, or ‚altdata‘, is becoming increasingly critical for organizations. Altdata encompasses information that exists outside of traditional financial and regulatory reporting channels—ranging from social media insights to geolocation data and beyond. As the digital landscape expands, so does the scope and […]
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has finalized a settlement with California-based footwear giant, Skechers U.S.A. Inc., concerning undisclosed payments to family members of executives and undisclosed loans to its executives. Skechers has agreed to pay a $1.25 million civil penalty to resolve these charges. The SEC’s findings reveal that from 2019 through 2022, Skechers […]
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in education is reshaping how academic institutions operate and interact with students and faculty. A standout example of this integration is ChatGPT, a generative AI developed by OpenAI. Based on the GPT-3.5 model, ChatGPT offers a conversational interface that can simulate human-like interactions, making it an invaluable tool […]
In the realm of accounting and finance, the choice of auditor and its impact on the transparency and quality of financial reporting is a pivotal concern for both academics and practitioners. The study by Karel Hrazdil, Dan A. Simunic, and Nattavut Suwanyangyuan, published in the Journal of Accounting, Auditing & Finance, sheds light on this […]
A recent study by Annika Bonrath and Marc Eulerich, published in the International Journal of Auditing, embarks on an insightful exploration into the integral role of Internal Audit Functions (IAF) in the domain of fraud prevention and detection. This research is timely, given the increasing complexities within organizational structures and the rising prevalence of fraudulent […]
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken a front seat, steering innovation and operational efficiencies across industries. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and the rapid adoption of generative AI (GenAI) is no exception. A recent survey conducted by Gartner, Inc. reveals a significant shift in the audit landscape, spotlighting AI-related risks as the area seeing […]
A new study conducted by Mara Cameran, Domenico Campa, and Angela Pettinicchio published in the Journal of Accounting, Auditing & Finance delves into an important but less explored aspect of workplace diversity in the accounting profession, particularly focusing on the Australian audit market. Their research investigates whether ethnic minority audit partners face discrimination through lower […]
In the digital age, artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved from a futuristic vision to a core component of business strategy. This transition, especially with the advent of Generative AI, places AI at the heart of business technology, compelling businesses to reassess its potential impact critically. The latest insights from the National Association of Corporate Directors’ […]
In a revealing study that illuminates the shadowy depths of corporate fraud, Alexander Dyck, Adair Morse, and Luigi Zingales explore the real magnitude of corporate misconduct and its financial implications on a global scale. Published in the „Review of Accounting Studies,“ their research employs a novel approach by leveraging the fallout from Arthur Andersen’s demise […]
In the era of artificial intelligence (AI), the question of moral responsibility in the face of harm caused by AI systems becomes increasingly pertinent. As AI continues to permeate various sectors—marketing, healthcare, finance, and beyond—its autonomy and decision-making capabilities raise significant ethical concerns. Yulia W. Sullivan and Samuel Fosso Wamba’s research, „Moral Judgments in the […]
As the business environment continues to evolve in 2024, internal auditors are at the forefront of navigating through a labyrinth of challenges and opportunities presented by globalisation, climate change, geopolitical tensions, and rapid digital transformation. The KPMG Internal Audit Topics 2024 report shines a light on the pressing issues and emerging trends that are redefining […]
In the dynamic landscape of organizational management, the strategies employed to motivate employees and enhance performance have always been a subject of extensive research and debate. A recent study conducted by D. Kip Holderness, Kari Joseph Olsen, and Todd A. Thornock, and published in Behavioral Research in Accounting, takes a closer look at the nuanced […]
In an era where the complexity and pace of change are unparalleled, the PwC Global Internal Audit Study 2023 provides a beacon for internal auditors navigating through the intricate landscape of risks and opportunities. This extensive study, drawing insights from a broad spectrum of 4,680 leaders across 81 countries, underscores the evolving role of Internal […]
In the intricate world of auditing, the stakes are high when it comes to detecting fraud. Auditors, tasked with ensuring the financial integrity of organizations, must navigate a landscape where the mere mention of „fraud“ can tighten lips and close doors. Recent research led by Jared Eutsler from the University of North Texas, along with […]
In the realm of social sciences, the echo of a replication crisis has been reverberating, casting shadows of doubt over the reliability of research findings. This crisis suggests that many studies might not hold up under the scrutiny of replication attempts, a cornerstone of scientific validation. Accounting research, a vital subset of the social sciences, […]
In an age where the velocity of information can significantly impact financial markets, a recent study by Jenna D’Adduzio of The University of British Columbia, David S. Koo of George Mason University, Santhosh Ramalingegowda of the University of Georgia, and Yong Yu of The University of Texas at Austin sheds light on a pivotal aspect […]
In the fast-paced world of business, the speed at which companies fill job vacancies might seem like a trivial detail. However, a recent study published in the Review of Accounting Studies sheds light on the significant implications this detail holds for future firm profitability, particularly distinguishing between low-skill and high-skill job vacancies. Conducted by Ciao-Wei […]
In the ever-evolving landscape of the auditing profession, ethical conflicts (ECs) emerge as formidable challenges that auditors grapple with daily. These conflicts arise when auditors find themselves at a crossroads, torn between their personal values, professional obligations, and the actions they are compelled to take. The essence of such dilemmas is not only the struggle […]
In a recent development, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has taken action against Brian Sewell and his company, Rockwell Capital Management, in connection with a fraudulent scheme that targeted students enrolled in Sewell’s online crypto trading course, the American Bitcoin Academy. This scheme has left 15 students out of pocket by a staggering […]
In a world grappling with climate change, resource depletion, poverty, and injustice, the need for sustainable solutions has never been more urgent. Yet, the question remains: how can innovation be harnessed to address these pressing challenges responsibly? Enter the realm of „Responsible Design Thinking for Sustainable Development.“ This concept, revitalized by Brian Baldassarre, Giulia Calabretta, […]
On January 25, 2024, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Gary Gensler delivered a speech highlighting the significance of shortening the settlement cycle in financial markets. In his address, Chair Gensler emphasized the impact of this move on market efficiency, risk reduction, and investor benefits. The GameStop Events: A Reminder of Market Plumbing Chair Gensler […]
In the realm of corporate finance and reputation management, the question of how to effectively repair a company’s image after a financial restatement is a critical one. Lei Dong and Y. Ken Wang address this issue in their study, „Reputation Repair after a Restatement: The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure,“ published in the Journal […]
The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of accounting is rapidly changing the dynamics of the profession. A recent workshop, hosted by the Journal of Information Systems, brought together industry experts and academics to discuss the implications of AI for accounting. The key question on everyone’s mind: will accountants with AI replace accountants? […]
In the intricate world of occupational fraud, the decisions victim organizations make about punishing perpetrators are as varied as they are complex. A recent study published in the Journal of Forensic Accounting Research by Erlina Papakroni, Marie Rice, and Lisa M. Dilks delves deep into this subject. The research, utilizing data from the Association of […]
In the picturesque town of Davos, Switzerland, the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum recently convened, bringing together a diverse array of global leaders against a backdrop of mounting geo-political tensions and emerging global challenges. Davos, known for its serene landscapes, transformed into a bustling hub of global discourse as over 60 heads […]
In the rapidly evolving world of accounting, a recent study sheds light on two crucial factors influencing accounting students‘ commitment to the profession: the sense of belonging and the impact of stereotype threat. Cristina Bailey, Serena Loftus, and Sarah Shonka McCoy delve into this topic in their article, „Do I Belong? The Impact of Belongingness […]
In a world where diversity and inclusion are becoming increasingly important in the workplace, a recent research article titled „Perceived Organizational Inclusion: Evidence from Neurodivergent Accountants in the U.S.“ by Loreal Jiles, Qi Duong (Susie), and Roopa Venkatesh explores the intersection of neurodiversity and the accounting profession. This study sheds light on the challenges faced […]
Drawing on organizational legitimacy theories, a recent research paper suggests that managers may adopt similar accounting practices as industry leaders to gain credibility and legitimacy. Especially for newly appointed CEOs, mirroring the accounting behaviors of industry leaders can serve as a signal of trustworthiness in an environment where stakeholders might be uncertain about their capabilities. […]
In their recent study, Yueqi Li, Sanjay Goel, and Kevin Williams delve into the profound impact of remote auditing on the audit profession. First published in February 2023, their research provides a comprehensive analysis of how the shift from traditional on-site audits to remote audits has affected audit quality, efficiency, and auditors‘ job satisfaction. Key […]
In their recent research article, Stefan Simic, Le Luo, and Rina Datt provide intriguing insights into how compensation strategies within companies influence their decision to engage in carbon assurance. Published in September 2023, their study, titled „Compensation and carbon assurance: Evidence from the United Kingdom,“ explores a significant and timely topic given the growing urgency […]
Tracie Frost, Liwei Shan, Albert Tsang, and Miao Yu’s research, published in July 2022, examines the relationship between media coverage of corporate social irresponsibility (CSI) and audit fees on a global scale. Their study, using data from 35 countries, found a significant positive correlation between media exposure of CSI and increased audit fees. This relationship, […]
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has emerged as a popular tool among auditors and corporate accountants, aiding in various accounting tasks. While the benefits of RPA are often highlighted, its potential risks and challenges are less frequently discussed. In a revealing article by Marc Eulerich, Nathan Waddoups, Martin Wagener, and David A. Wood, titled „The Dark […]
In the realm of corporate finance and accounting, the impact of internal control weaknesses (MWs) on shareholder trust and perceptions is a topic of ongoing interest and importance. A recent article by Hambisa Belina, K. Raghunandan, and Dasaratha V. Rama, titled „Do Shareholders Care about ‚Surprise‘ Internal Control Weakness Disclosures?“ published in Current Issues in […]
The article „Attracting the Next Generation of Accountants“ delves into the intersection of career choice and personal values in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a spotlight on Gen Z’s entry into the workforce and their affinity for sustainability, the study presents an intriguing exploration of how the accounting profession could evolve to meet […]
In their recent study published in „AUDITING: A Journal of Practice & Theory,“ Ghio, Moulang, and Gendron delve into the experiences of women auditors during the COVID-19 pandemic. They identify that the pandemic, far from leveling the playing field, instead further highlighted and intensified existing gender norms and disparities in the audit profession. Women auditors […]
In the rapidly evolving landscape of finance and accounting, the potential of Audit Analytics (AA) stands out, promising to transform the Internal Audit Function (IAF). However, despite its potential, its adoption remains limited. A recent study in the „Journal of Emerging Technologies in Accounting“ delved deep, identifying both driving and inhibiting factors affecting AA’s integration. […]
The world of financial reporting has seen significant transformations in the past few decades, with evolving regulatory standards and changing business environments. Amid these changes, one area that has continually held significance is the internal audit function (IAF). Despite its importance, the IAF has remained an area with limited data availability, constraining further research and […]
Recent developments in the accounting industry have led to increased collaboration between professionals from different accounting firms. This collaboration involves firms providing various services, such as audit and tax, to client organizations. While this trend offers many benefits, it also raises questions about how information is shared among these professionals and its potential impact on […]
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has made two significant announcements recently, indicating its ongoing commitment to a transparent and accountable financial market. Registration Fee Rate Hike for Fiscal Year 2024 The SEC unveiled the fee rates for fiscal year 2024. Effective from October 1, public companies and other issuers will experience an increase in […]
Earnings management has long been a concern in the corporate world, with companies striving to meet or beat analysts‘ earnings forecasts through various accounting tactics. External auditors play a critical role in curbing opportunistic earnings management behavior and providing financial statement reliability. However, recent research by Eric Lohwasser and Yaou Zhou explores how companies that […]
Generative AI, a technology with the capability to drive vast economic transformation, is on the brink of reshaping our future. McKinsey’s recent research underlines the sheer magnitude of this shift, suggesting generative AI could add a staggering $2.6 to $4.4 trillion annually across numerous use cases. To put this in perspective, this is akin to […]
In the era of remote work, public accounting firms grapple with a vital concern: how to effectively socialize new employees. This process, known as Organizational Socialization (OS), is pivotal for new professionals to assimilate the attitudes, values, social skills, and technical expertise vital to their success in the firm. Historically, newcomers were inducted into a […]
Whistleblower programs have undoubtedly made their mark in the corporate sector, acting as a formidable tool in the fight against unethical behavior. Yet, when we pivot our attention to the academic realm, especially where student policies for reporting peer misconduct are concerned, a glaring gap emerges. F. Todd DeZoort’s enlightening research, published in the esteemed […]
Artificial intelligence and algorithmic decision-making systems have become an integral part of our daily lives, impacting various aspects, from e-commerce and entertainment to medical diagnosis and financial domains. While these algorithms offer efficiency and scalability, users often struggle to trust these systems due to the „black box paradox.“ Users increasingly demand transparency in algorithmic decision-making […]
There is a rapid shift in auditing practice with the integration of audit data analytics (ADA) tools. As the audit landscape changes, the question arises: How can educators effectively integrate ADA into the existing auditing curriculum to better equip students for the future of auditing? An illuminating study by Booker, Pelzer, and Richardson, published in […]
The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has introduced critical audit matters (CAMs) to expand audit reports to provide external users with more information regarding potential risks of material misstatements. While the intention of CAM disclosures is to highlight the risk of material misstatement and the corresponding audit procedures, early studies suggest that investors may […]
A newly published paper in Accounting Horizons highlights the implications of frequent auditor switching for the audit quality. The paper is particularly significant for regulators, practitioners, and academics to inform policy discussions, audit committee disclosure requirements, risk models, investment decisions, and future research on auditor switching. Existing accounting research primarily focuses on single-instance auditor changes […]
In 2022, several risk areas put organizations in a state of permanent crisis: the ongoing pandemic, supply chain issues, climate change along with natural disasters, persistent inflation and rising energy prices driven by the war in Ukraine. For this reason, 14 Institutes of Internal Auditors across 15 European countries have conducted a study on key […]
A newly released paper emphasizes the significance of risk governance in organizations and its susceptibility to internal and external influences. It underscores the importance of executives and boards in setting a strong tone at the top regarding risk governance in their organizations. This tone should prioritize and highlight the value and role of risk governance […]
The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has recently issued its first Request for Information (RFI) on May 4, 2023. The purpose of this Request for Information (RFI) is to gather input and shape the ISSB’s work plan for the next two years. The ISSB is currently seeking feedback on its priorities during this period. You […]
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued thelargest-ever whistleblower award of nearly $279 million. The award was granted to a whistleblower whose information and assistance led to successful enforcement actions by the SEC. This award surpasses the previous record of $114 million given in October 2020. The SEC’s whistleblower program has been highly successful […]
As of December 15th, 2022, the IDW has introduced ISA [DE] 315 (Revised 2019), an auditing standard that has been fundamentally revised by the IAASB to identify and assess the risks of material misstatement. Due to the changing audit scope resulting from ongoing digitization, the increasing use of new automated tools and techniques, and other […]
The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires all firms to include a risk factor section in their periodic filings, but doubts remain about the informativeness of these disclosures. Cybersecurity risk disclosures are particularly important due to the increasing number of data breaches, and firms have a responsibility to inform investors about changes in their […]