Tag Archives: accountancy

Latest guidance to help businesses boost confidence in AI from ACCA and EY

  • New paper sets out key considerations for business leaders and policy makers to help bolster confidence in AI systems
  • Guidance aims to support effective AI assessments, through better governance, compliance and performance
  • Paper seeks to help businesses deploy safe, reliable and effective AI systems, as AI adoption grows

Businesses that undertake effective assessments of their artificial intelligence (AI) systems can better harness the technology’s potential to boost innovation, productivity, and growth, according to a policy paper published by global accountancy body ACCA, (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and global professional services organisation, EY.

 

The report – AI Assessments: Enhancing Confidence in AI – explores the emerging field of AI assessments, which encompasses a broad spectrum of AI evaluations, spanning technical, governance and compliance assessments, through to more traditional assurance and audits.

 

It outlines the role these assessments can play in evaluating whether AI systems are well governed, compliant with applicable laws and regulations, and perform in line with business leaders’ and other users’ stated expectations. It makes the case that effective AI assessments allow businesses to deploy AI systems that are more likely to be effective, reliable and trusted.

 

The paper also addresses the current challenges that come with these emerging types of AI assessments and identifies the key elements needed to make them robust and meaningful for their different users.

 

AI assessments, whether voluntary or mandated, are increasingly being considered and used by businesses, investors, insurers and policymakers as adoption and deployment of AI accelerates around the world, and amid a growing need to build and enhance trust in the technology.

The publication of this paper comes at a time when the policy landscape relating to AI assessment continues to evolve. Among the latest developments is the Trump administration’s publication of an AI Action Plan, which states that ‘rigorous evaluations can be a critical tool in defining and measuring AI reliability and performance in regulated industries’.

 

The paper details how effective AI assessments can foster increased confidence in AI. The paper identifies three emerging types of AI assessments:

  • Governance assessments – to evaluate the internal governance structures surrounding AI systems;
  • Conformity assessments – to determine compliance with any applicable laws, regulations and standards; and
  • Performance assessments – to measure AI systems against predefined quality and performance metrics.

 

The report outlines a number of current challenges that hinder the robustness and effectiveness of some AI assessment frameworks and explains how these can be managed through the adoption of well-specified objectives; clearly defined methodologies and criteria; and competent, objective and professionally accountable providers.

 

The report also sets out a number of concrete suggestions to help business leaders and policymakers ensure AI assessments are as effective as possible, including:

  • Business leaders should consider the role AI assessments – including voluntary ones – can play in enhancing corporate governance, risk management and building confidence in AI systems among customers and employees.
  • Policymakers are encouraged to very clearly define the purpose, components, methodology and criteria of AI assessments; and support AI assessment standards that are – to the extent practicable – compatible with those in other countries and in other ways minimally burdensome on businesses.
  • Policymakers should also support capacity-building in the market to provide high-quality, consistent, and cost-effective assessments.

 

Helen Brand, chief executive, ACCA, said: “As AI scales across the economy the ability to trust what it says is not just important, it is vital for the public interest. This is an area where we need to bridge skills gaps and build trust in the AI eco-system as part of driving sustainable business. We look forward to collaborating with policymakers and others in this fascinating and important area.”

 

Marie-Laure Delarue, EY global vice-chair, assurance, says: “AI has been advancing faster than many of us could have imagined, and it now faces an inflection point, presenting incredible opportunities as well as complexities and risks. It is hard to overstate the importance of ensuring safe and effective adoption of AI. Rigorous assessments are an important tool to help build confidence in the technology, and confidence is the key to unlocking AI’s full potential as a driver of growth and prosperity.

 

“As businesses navigate the complexities of AI deployment, they are asking fundamental questions about the meaning and impact of their AI initiatives. This reflects a growing demand for trust services that align with EY’s existing capabilities in assessments, readiness evaluations, and compliance.”

 

Read the report

ACCA’s latest research reveals urgent need for consistency in accounting

With no IFRS Accounting Standard dedicated to accounting for carbon-related instruments, a new global study by ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)and the Adam Smith Business School at the University of Glasgow reveals the growing complexity and diversity in how companies account for these instruments,  and the consequences for various stakeholders in the corporate reporting ecosystem. The study, Reality of accounting for carbon-related instruments, analyses the annual reports of 300 companies in high-emitting sectors across the globe.

“Without guidance from standard setters, companies are developing their own accounting policies and providing information based on their own discretion. While the application of judgement when applying accounting policies is welcome, the use of substantially different accounting policies and different terms to describe these instruments, undermines transparency and comparability,” said Dr Ioannis Tsalavoutas, professor of accounting at the University of Glasgow.

ACCA supplements the research report with two articles giving both decision-makers and finance teams practical insights about the drivers for and implications of engaging with these instruments, plus a practical workflow that is based on existing IFRS Accounting Standards. The articles also reveal the real-world implications for employees, customers and investors navigating ESG claims, tax uncertainties and reputational pressures.

“Good quality information about carbon-related instruments would benefit a broad spectrum of stakeholders in the corporate reporting ecosystem,” said Aaron Saw, head of corporate reporting insights – financial at ACCA. “Our research provides a glimpse into the complex landscape and offers a starting point for purpose-driven accounting and reporting of carbon-related instruments.”

The world needs a future-ready standard for a growing challenge

The lack of a global accounting standard for carbon-related instruments is already creating challenges for investors and companies alike. This study urges the creation of a global accounting standard for carbon-related instruments to enable consistent accounting treatments and disclosure of relevant information. The standard should help companies determine:

  • the appropriate scope when accounting for each carbon-related instrument that faithfully represents its nature, function and intended use
  • when and how to recognise the instrument
  • the appropriate measurement approaches, and
  • relevant disclosures to enable users to evaluate the financial effects of such an instrument on the company, including its nature, function and intended use.

 

Introducing an overarching term, such as “carbon-related instruments”, would help to harmonise description across markets.

ACCA urges finance professionals, regulators, and standard-setters to explore the research report and articles and contribute to shaping the future of accounting for and reporting of carbon-related instruments. By aligning practice with purpose, we can build clarity, consistency and trust in the carbon markets.

Download the report and articles here.

Confidence among UK accountants remains fragile despite Q2 rise

The latest ACCA and IMA Global Economic Conditions Survey (GECS) showed confidence amongst British SMEs has increased for the second consecutive quarter, although the improvement in Q2 was modest compared to the previous quarter. Confidence remains notably below its long-term average.

 

After significant challenges in Q4 2024 and Q1 2025, there are some possible signs of optimism. While the capital expenditure index remains significantly below its average, it improved its result this quarter and is markedly improved from its position in Q2 last year.

 

The New Orders index improved for the third consecutive quarter, which combined with improvements in the employment and staff investment indices suggests the post-Budget shock has somewhat abated and firms are starting to plan for growth.

 

These results show considerable noise in the marketplace and businesses will be looking for certainty in order to plan for growth. The index tracking access to finance has shown much volatility in the recent past, with a sharp fall this quarter. Businesses are also reporting a second quarter increase in problems securing prompt payment.

The publication of the UK government’s Spending Review, Industrial and Trade Strategies came after this data was collected, so the government will likely hope that this will provide some further improvement later in the year. However, with inflation again increasing, it’s clear that businesses remain in a cautious mood.

 

Glenn Collins, head of technical and strategic engagement, ACCA UK, added: “The UK economic and global outlooks remain challenging for business. The publication of the industrial strategy, trade strategy and upcoming small business strategy are important steps, but business needs to see steps from the Government that it is focused on providing certainty. The upcoming Budget will need to deliver clear and long-term actions that will support the rebuild of business confidence and a focus on growth.”

 

Globally, for the first time, geopolitics topped accountants’ risk priorities in Q2. Economic fears tied with regulatory and compliance risks as the second highest risk priority, while talent scarcity and cybersecurity remained critical but were slightly less prominent this quarter.

 

Climate change, fraud, and supply chain risks remained lower down the agenda for global respondents, suggesting a renewed focus on macro-external volatility, with boards and executives reacting to intensifying global conflicts, regulatory unpredictability and economic pressure.

 

Jonathan Ashworth, chief economist, ACCA, said: “After rising strongly in Q1 2025, confidence among UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) only registered a modest improvement in the Q2 2025, and remains depressed by historical standards.

 

“There were quite large gains in the Capital Expenditure and Employment indices, but both remain at low levels historically, consistent with ongoing caution among firms. There was a very minor gain in the New Orders Index, and it is not very far below its historical average.

 

“Meanwhile, it was encouraging to see that cost pressures for firms look to be becoming a little less severe. Our indicators of corporate stress appear to be broadly within the range of values they have recorded in the last few years.

 

“All in all, while some encouragement should be taken from the improvement in our key indicators this year, they still remain indicative of a very challenging backdrop for the UK economy, and developments with the global economy pose downside risks in the second half of the year.”

AI is reshaping the work of accountants

AI will reshape the accountancy profession by changing how tasks are completed at all levels. Leading global accountancy body, ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) says that as AI becomes more commonplace, new responsibilities and tasks will emerge for finance teams as they focus on improving controls and specifying the desired information outcomes from machine use.

 

Accountants can thrive in an artificial intelligence-dominated workplace just as they have done in other tech revolutions

 

New roles are also expected to support activities ensuring AI systems remain accurate and compliant with professional standards and regulations.

 

ACCA’s latest AI Monitor report explores how the gradual integration of AI over coming years is likely to change how accountants work and deliver value from the automation of repetitive tasks to increased knowledge support for decision making. The report points out that while AI can help make processes more efficient, human intervention needs to be retained at critical junctures.

 

Ultimately, the integration of AI needs to reflect the fact that trust remains a fundamentally social concept built on human interaction, transparency, and oversight. And the future of accounting will involve navigating tensions between efficiency and human judgement, automation and control.

 

Alistair Brisbourne, head of technology research, ACCA, said: “Professionals who can embrace uncertainty, develop strong judgement skills, and continuously adapt their expertise will thrive even as specific tasks change or become automated.”

 

Brisbourne said: “It should be remembered that over the decades accountancy has prospered by its intelligent and enthusiastic adoption of the latest technology.”

 

The report sets out four key work trends that AI will drive for accountants:

  • A contraction in routine processing;
  • An expansion in strategic and advisory decision-making;
  • An evolution of mid-level roles to incorporate more judgement and client interaction; and
  • New responsibilities at the intersection of accounting, technology and strategy.

 

The future that is unfolding isn’t one where finance and accounting professionals are replaced – but one where their responsibilities will change. Success in this transition depends on making clear assessments of where AI will add value, establishing clear policies and governance in use, and the cultivation of skills that complement technical capabilities.

 

ACCA expects that coming years will see organisations develop more integrated workflows based on the principle that AI adoption is not just about distinguishing high versus low-value activities – but focusing on outcomes, quality and value.

 

Brisbourne said: “Only a minority of finance and accounting teams have implemented AI solutions – but these resources are widely available, and organisations are reviewing opportunities and workforce needs.

 

“AI adoption is expected to accelerate in coming years, especially as our data shows investment on AI initiatives is increasing, and widespread cloud adoption provides a crucial foundation for AI implementation.”

 

The profession is still in the invention and adoption stage of AI, as demonstrated by investment data and current adoption/usage statistics. And the profession is embracing the learning and employment challenge offered by AI as shown by the recently announced changes to the ACCA Qualification which embraces emerging advances in technology and sustainability.

 

The report adds that widescale use of a general-purpose technology, like AI, may take longer than anticipated.

 

Read How is AI reshaping finance and accounting work? https://stories.accaglobal.com/how-is-ai-reshaping-finance-and-accounting-work/index.html 

ACCA announces redesign of qualification for a redefined accountancy profession

 

  • Future ACCA Qualification unveiled as employers look to accountants to take broader role in embracing AI-driven technology and driving sustainable business

 

Global accountancy body ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) has announced a redesign of its gold standard ACCA Qualification focused on a redefinition of accountancy which is expanding and reshaping the role of the profession.

 

The redesign reflects the increasing role of accountants in driving the widening value needed for business success, combining profitability with ethics, sustainability, the ability to leverage new technology and the agility to deal with economic volatility. Similar changes are being seen in the public sector.

 

Responding to and anticipating the evolving needs of employers, the changes build on the current strengths of the ACCA Qualification. They will introduce a more integrated learning and assessment experience, including AI-enhanced learning journeys, designed to equip the next generation with the professional skills and technical expertise they need to succeed in a dynamic and volatile world.

 

The announcement follows extensive consultation with members, employers and learning providers around the world, as well as representatives of Gen Z. The redesigned qualification will be introduced from mid-2027.

 

Helen Brand, chief executive of ACCA, said: “Accountancy is being redefined. Accountants are drivers of sustainable business, promoters of social value, and enablers of new technologies. They are sharpening their financial and ethical skills for a changed world of ever-shifting opportunities and challenges. They innovate with new business models and fresh thinking about what success looks like. They focus on people, planet and prosperity to create value for all.

 

“The changes we’re making will equip the next generation for this exciting new future that will bring wider and more varied opportunities.”

 

Employability is a key focus of the changes, which include the introduction of Employability Modules at each of the qualification’s three levels, providing simulated work experiences on topics such as digital tech, ethics, sustainability and business management.

 

Enhanced awards and designations recognise achievement and allow students to demonstrate their skills to employers at every stage of their ACCA journey.

Technology, sustainability and ethics, already integral to the ACCA Qualification, will be interwoven at every stage. Another innovation is a new Data Science Professional exam which students can choose as an option at the final ‘Strategic Professional’ level.

 

Abdul Goffar, director of ACCA UK, said: “The ACCA Qualification has always been the gold standard, globally recognised and highly valued by employers in the UK market. It will remain as rigorous, relevant, and future-focused as ever, with an even sharper focus on employability.

 

“The redesigned qualification comes together as a unified experience at each of its three levels with learning guidance and support, assessments, employability support, and help to develop skills.  Students will benefit from tailored learning journeys supported by AI technology and a digital mentor.”

 

ACCA has prepared a smooth transition for all students currently on, or about to start, their ACCA journey. Existing achievements will be recognised and there will be no disadvantage in terms of progression and the cost to complete the qualification.

 

ACCA students will continue to benefit from the opportunity to attain a world-leading academic qualification alongside their ACCA studies with the new BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy collaboration with the University of London.

 

ACCA is known for its focus on inclusion and opportunity. A redesigned ‘Foundations’ route requiring no prior qualifications provides those not meeting the entry criteria for the ACCA Qualification with a way to meet it.

 

Find out more at accaglobal.com

ACCA calls on UK Government to ease charities’ financial burden by reviewing audit thresholds

 

  • The response calls for an increase in the audit threshold in England and Wales, following a proposed increase to the audit threshold in Scotland
  • Accountancy body calls for a structured, periodic review cycle of financial thresholds to ensure greatest possible alignment with accounting standards and sector changes. At least every 10 years should be the minimum requirement, with a preference for five-yearly reviews.

The government should commit to reviewing financial thresholds for charities at least every ten years, says ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants).

In response to a consultation by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), ACCA is calling for DCMS to balance the proportionality that having thresholds offers, with the issue of complexity in having many different thresholds; where possible a threshold should be common to more than one matter.

This consultation covers the thresholds that determine when a charity must register, submit an annual report, file accounts, and undertake an independent examination or audit.

The current thresholds, which have remained unchanged since 2015, are considered outdated and no longer reflective of the current economic environment and operational context of the charity sector.

In Scotland, charities with an income over £500,000 were required to undergo an audit, but following a consultation conducted by the Scottish Government, this threshold is now proposed to increase to £1m. In England and Wales, the threshold is £1m, and ACCA is calling for this amount to rise to £1.5m.

This discrepancy means smaller Scottish charities spend an average of 0.8% of their income on audit, compared to 0.4% for larger charities.

Glenn Collins, head of technical and strategic engagement, ACCA, said: “It is important that financial thresholds are proportionate for smaller charities. A periodic, systematic review is essential to ensure the regulatory environment evolves with the sector. Our recommendations aim to balance accountability and fairness, freeing up vital resources to function.”

ACCA is also advocating for a more coherent UK approach to setting charity law financial thresholds, suggesting that DCMS engage in ongoing dialogue with the other UK jurisdictions of Northern Ireland and Scotland. This collaboration would allow for the sharing of good practices and experiences in the charity sector.

The body recommends the gross annual income threshold for auditing be raised to £1.5 million in line with inflation, rather than stick at the current threshold of £1 million.

Joe Fitzsimons, regional lead, policy and insights, ACCA, added: “In view of the significant increase in the audit threshold for small companies, it is appropriate to consider doing the same for charities. This is not simply about the effect of inflation, but recognising that the threshold is set in the context of the distribution of income across the charity sector.

“There is evidence that the availability of auditors is proving a challenge to trustees and increasing the threshold for audit would be a pragmatic step to easing this situation.

“Our members serve in the charity sector as trustees, act as auditors, as independent examiners and professional advisers on accounting and charity governance related matters. Our response is framed with the contribution of our members and the importance of the charity sector to civic society in mind.”

Confidence among UK accountants rises despite tough trading conditions

Following a historic low of confidence in Q4 2024, Q1 2025 shows an uptick amongst UK accountants, although still well below normal confidence levels

Confidence among UK accountants rose marginally in Q1 2025, after falling to the lowest ever level in Q4 2024, according to the Q1 2025 Global Economic Conditions Survey (GECS). The survey from ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants) suggests that confidence amongst British SMEs has materially improved in Q1, but across the board there was a mixed set of results.

 

There was a second consecutive increase in the New Orders Index, though it remains below its historical average, but not significantly. While the Employment Index registered a decent improvement, the Capital Expenditure Index declined modestly – both are at very low levels historically.

 

Concerns about suppliers and customers going out of business declined this quarter, however there were significant concerns evident in some key measures. There was a meaningful rise in the proportion of respondents reporting increased operating costs – it is now at its highest since Q1 2023. Problems securing prompt payment and problems accessing finance indices both rose for the second consecutive quarter, which could negatively impact business cashflow and financial viability.

 

Jonathan Ashworth, chief economist, ACCA, said: “Global growth has generally proved quite resilient over recent quarters. Nonetheless, the longer that confidence remains depressed, the greater the risk that a self-reinforcing negative cycle could potentially develop, with firms pulling back on orders, capital expenditure and hiring. Unfortunately, with global trade tensions stepping

 

 

up markedly since the survey was completed, the downside risks to the global economy have increased significantly.”

 

Glenn Collins, head of technical and strategic engagement, ACCA UK, added: “With business confidence so low and all the talk of government strategies, now is the time for action. The lack of final published strategies has a negative impact on businesses, who look to those plans to prioritise investment and grow. While the global market flux provides a challenging environment, it also provides opportunities for business to expand into new markets and a lack of positive forward momentum is holding us back.”

 

Alain Mulder, senior director, Europe Operations & Global Special Projects at IMA, said: “New US policies on trade and government spending, and the uncertainty surrounding them, appear to have had a large negative impact on confidence, while declines in the global markets and signs of slowing in the US economy were likely factors too.”

 

Read the report here

Kilsby Williams invests in future talent

Tax and accountancy specialist Kilsby Williams is investing in the next generation by providing an alternative route into the sector for young people.

The independent firm’s audit and accountancy apprenticeships have been designed with school leavers in mind, providing professional development and expert mentorship opportunities for learners who are not following college and university pathways.

The apprenticeships enable school leavers to study towards industry-recognised qualifications including AAT level 2 and level 3 and ACA qualification, while gaining practical experience and earning above the national minimum wage for apprentices.

Abi Cornford is one of the school leavers who has experienced the support of the firm and tailored career development since joining in 2019, progressing from an apprentice to audits and accounts manager. Abi now specialises in audit services for private businesses, SMEs and UK subsidiaries of overseas groups.

Abi said: “Starting at Kilsby Williams right after school was the best decision I could have made. The support I’ve received has been invaluable, and I’m proud to have achieved my professional chartered qualification while advancing along my managerial career path.

“The firm’s culture, which prioritises development and team building, has played a huge role in my growth. Kilsby Williams has provided me with a platform to thrive, and I look forward to continuing my journey here.”

Jonathan Harrhy, partner at Kilsby Williams, said: “We aim to empower everyone at all levels in the firm to maximise their potential with a no glass ceiling approach to career progression. And there’s no better place to start than by supporting the progression of young professionals in their first roles within the sector.

“We are proud to be investing in the next generation of audit and accountancy talent through our apprenticeships, providing access to top-tier training and trusting them to work alongside colleagues on client projects.

“In addition to developing skills, these opportunities shape the future of Kilsby Williams. It’s been fantastic to see Abi progress from apprentice to manager with our guidance, and it’s exciting to see the growth of Conor and Joshua who will be completing AAT level 3 this summer.”

Established in 1991, Kilsby Williams works with clients locally in south Wales, extending across the UK and globally. Their clients range from sole traders to international quoted groups.

ACCA gives cautious welcome to EU sustainability changes

  • Global accountancy body says Omnibus Directive needs careful consideration

 

The European Union (EU) has proposed changes to some of the requirements in the European Green Deal, as set out in the Omnibus Directive  published recently.

 

The proposals are intended to reduce the number of companies required to publish details about their sustainability; to reduce the number of matters that companies will need to disclose; and to delay implementation by a year when many of these companies will be required to make the disclosures.

 

It will also reduce the number of companies required to audit the sustainability of their supply chain, and to limit the information required from SMEs.

 

Leading global professional accountancy body ACCA welcomes the intent behind the Omnibus Directive, which is intended to save cost, reduce the burden on smaller businesses, and make European companies more competitive.

 

ACCA has long supported the implementation of robust sustainability reporting frameworks and standards, and championed voluntary disclosures by companies around the world. ACCA is supporting accountants and businesses both within and outside of the EU with their understanding and compliance with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).

 

Setting out an initial reaction to the Omnibus Directive, Mike Suffield, Director of ACCA’s Policy and Insights, said: “While we welcome the intent of the Directive, businesses need consistency, clarity, and certainty; the Omnibus Directive needs careful consideration to ensure that it delivers on these requirements, while acknowledging the need to drive climate action.”

 

The global accountancy body added that there is a need to maximise interoperability of sustainability reporting requirements in Europe with the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards. It added it is vital that risks of the Omnibus Directive creating further divergence between the two reporting frameworks is minimised, to avoid greater friction to global markets.

 

Suffield further commented that: “ACCA will be analysing the Omnibus Directive in greater detail to fully understand the impact on our global membership and our partners. We stand ready to assist the EU in their development and implementation of proposals, and to ensure globally consistent and clear sustainability reporting requirements for business.”

 

Visit ACCA’s website for more information.

Governments should grasp gender-responsive budgeting as an opportunity to address systemic gender disparities

 

  • Accountants are uniquely placed to play a central role in contributing to an inclusive society
  • New research from leading global accountancy body ACCA highlights progress on gender-responsive budgeting

 

Gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) should be seen by policymakers and governments as a key tool for driving inclusive growth and systemic change.

 

In new research, Gender-responsive budgeting: unlocking the potential, global accountancy body ACCA draws on the experience of professional accountants and leaders across Eastern Europe, Eurasia and the Middle East.

 

Co-author of the report, Joe Fitzsimons, senior manager, Policy and insights, ACCA, said: “This report offers critical insights into the strategies and tools that facilitate the effective adoption of GRB across government agencies and state-owned organisations.

 

“Accountants have a vital role in the application of GRB using their skills and knowledge of data analysis, budgetary techniques and policy advocacy. They can also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of GRB implementation. Governments are increasingly turning to GRB as they pursue more equitable and just societies.”

 

The report recommends policy makers adopt the following to move towards implementing GRB:

 

  • Build institutional capacity and awareness
  • Strengthen data collection and analysis
  • Learn from best practice and benchmark against peers
  • Establish inter-ministerial collaboration and partnerships
  • Champion gender-balanced leadership and decision-making.

 

Speaking ahead of International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8th March, Jessica Bingham, Global Sustainability Lead – Strategy, ACCA, co-author of the report said: “Incorporating gender considerations into budgetary processes enables governments to ensure that resources are allocated in a way that meets the diverse needs of all.

 

“This in turn promotes fairness but also lays the foundations required for sustainable economic growth and social inclusion. Policymakers have an opportunity to embrace GRB and ensure it is a fundamental component of their strategies creating a more equitable future for all.”

 

Read the report here and visit ACCA’s website for more information.