The International Integrated Reporting Council's meeting, hosted today by IFAC, comes at a seminal moment for corporate reporting. To be accountable to their stakeholders, organizations need to provide a clear and concise picture of their ability to create sustainable value over time. At the same time, rapid change and disruption, driven by climate change and technology, are forcing businesses to reconsider their approach to value creation and reporting.

Over the past decade, the corporate reporting landscape has become a mosaic of mandatory and voluntary disclosures under various standards and frameworks. The result is complexity and reporting that fails to meet the needs of investors and other stakeholders. Convergence towards relevant, reliable, and comparable narrative information and metrics is desperately needed.

Integrated reporting meets today’s expectations for corporate accountability and transparency. IFAC’s partnership with the International Integrated Reporting Council aims to support organizations in developing reporting and thinking that properly considers long-term opportunities and risks.

To address the future of reporting, and the role accountants must play in it, IFAC has published its Point of View on enhancing corporate reporting. Also published on the Gateway is an article from IFAC CEO Kevin Dancey and IIRC Interim CEO Charles Tilley that highlights the evolving role of CFOs and finance teams in accounting for value creation. IFAC is determined to support this evolution through an integrated value creation agenda.

Accountants have a key role to play in this future and must work to drive corporate reporting that meets the demands of the present and the future. This is an enormous opportunity that the profession must seize now.

With a changing and uncertain business environment, Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) and finance functions must evolve to sit at the heart of decision making within their organizations, according to a series launched today by IFAC (the International Federation of Accountants). The series includes:

• A vision for the CFO and finance function;
• Future-fit accounting roles for the next decade; and
• An evaluation tool to help guide organizations in finance function transformation.

With more demanding customers and societal expectations, achieving long-term value creation and success has never been more challenging for businesses. The CFO and finance function of today and tomorrow needs to provide information and analysis that supports decisions about all aspects of an organization’s business model and value creation. As business partners, they need to communicate how value is created today, how it will be created in the future, and if profitability is sustainable.

“The finance function cannot survive as a support or back-office function and must do more than account for the balance sheet” said Kevin Dancey, IFAC CEO. “As business models evolve and uncertainty increases, CFOs and their finance teams are uniquely situated to provide the information that powers decision-making for long-term value creation.”

To be at the heart of decision making, effective CFOs and finance functions must deliver:

• Actionable insights to support strategic and operational planning and decisions;
• Performance analysis to steer the organization toward achieving objectives, targets, and long-term profitability, as well as to ensure alignment between strategy, planning and delivery;
• Enterprise risk management to manage uncertainty, opportunities, and risks in the context of business objectives and the external environment;
• Effective communication and storytelling on all aspects of an organization’s business model and value creation;
• Trust and confidence in the governance of the organization, and in the quality of data, processes, systems and reporting through adequate control and security; and
• Integrity and professionalism to encourage ethical behavior and decision making throughout an organization to ensure sustainable value creation.

It is incumbent upon various stakeholders – organizations, professional accountancy organizations (PAOs), and individuals – to help prepare future-fit accountants in business.

For organizations, developing a finance function vision will help identify the enablers of change and ensure that the finance function is fit-for-purpose to partner with the business. IFAC's evaluation tool is meant to help boards and management teams identify strengths and areas of improvement for their finance team.

For PAOs, there are three priority areas to develop future-ready accountants in business: engaging accountants in business and their employers, advancing accountancy education, and promoting the value of the accounting profession.

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About IFAC
IFAC is the global organization for the accountancy profession dedicated to serving the public interest by strengthening the profession and contributing to the development of strong international economies. IFAC is comprised of more than 175 members and associates in more than 130 countries and jurisdictions, representing almost 3 million accountants in public practice, education, government service, industry, and commerce.

Within five years, 65% of governments will report on an accrual basis, according to a recent report by IFAC (the International Federation of Accountants) and CIPFA (the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy). The report was drawn from the International Public Sector Financial Accountability Index, which captures current and future use of public financial reporting bases and frameworks by governments around the world.

The 2018 Index Status Report, which captures information from 150 countries, finds that while 25% of governments currently report on an accrual basis, 65% of governments will report on accrual by the end of 2023. Asia, Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean will lead the projected increase by the end of 2023.

By providing a comprehensive view of government finances, accrual reporting helps ensure that expenditure of public funds is transparent, public officials are held accountable, and future liabilities are recognized officially and planned for properly.

“Accruals-based accounting and auditable financial statements are essential if governments are to promote trust and transparency, identify and fight corruption, and above all deliver the outcomes their citizens expect and deserve,” said Rob Whiteman, Chief Executive of CIPFA.

Public financial reporting frameworks are developed in various ways, with many using International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS). IPSAS provide high quality financial reporting guidance for governments and other public bodies around the world, in order to improve their consistency and transparency. 51% of governments that currently report on an accrual basis use IPSAS directly, indirectly or as a reference point. By the end of 2023, nearly three-quarters (73%) of governments that report on accrual will use IPSAS in one of these three ways.

The report also outlines key actions for successful accrual reforms. According to the report, successful implementation of accrual reforms requires coordinated planning and sustained support. Additional recommendations include: frequent and clear communications, a change management program, and coordinated training and capacity building.

“The rapid acceleration of accrual reporting in the public sector, and IPSAS in particular, is a promising sign for citizens across the globe. Professional accountants play a critical role in unlocking the full benefits of accrual accounting and in improving decision making, transparency and accountability throughout the economy,” said Kevin Dancey, IFAC Incoming CEO.

IFAC and CIPFA plan to expand the Index progressively in terms of both coverage and information depth and to provide periodic status reports throughout this crucial uptake period for accrual financial reporting globally.

Media Contacts:
Tony Mirenda
IFAC Head of Communications
tonymirenda@ifac.org
+1 212 286 9344

Letreis Lawrence
CIPFA Corporate Communications Assistant
Letreis.lawrence@cipfa.org
0207543 5787

 
About IFAC
IFAC is the global organization for the accountancy profession dedicated to serving the public interest by strengthening the profession and contributing to the development of strong international economies. IFAC is comprised of more than 175 members and associates in more than 130 countries and jurisdictions, representing almost 3 million accountants in public practice, education, government service, industry, and commerce. 

About CIPFA
CIPFA is the professional body for people in public finance. It represents approximately 14,000 members who are public finance leaders and officials in the United Kingdom and overseas, specialising in high quality public financial management and governance for organisations in, and providing support to, government and public services. Its members work throughout the public sector, in national audit agencies, in major accountancy firms, and in other public and private sector bodies where public money needs to be effectively and efficiently managed. As the world’s only professional accountancy body to specialise in public services, CIPFA’s portfolio of qualifications is the foundation for a career in public finance. It also champions high performance in public services, translating its experience and insight into clear advice and practical services. Globally, CIPFA shows the way in public finance by standing up for sound public financial management and good governance. 

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) today announced revisions to its Statements of Membership Obligations (SMOs) 1–7, effective April 1, 2026. The SMOs set global benchmarks for IFAC members to support the adoption and implementation of international standards, as well as robust quality assurance and investigation and disciplinary systems.

The revisions introduce targeted refinements to reflect developments in quality management, professional education pathways, and expanded corporate and public sector reporting, and to support the continued modernization of the IFAC Member Compliance Program. The revisions follow a rigorous global due process, including an Exposure Draft and extensive public consultation in 2025, reinforcing the SMOs’ global credibility and authority.

Key revisions include:

• Quality Management: Alignment with international quality management standards to strengthen firm-level systems.
• Education: Encouragement of more flexible pathways into the profession, consistent with international education standards.
• Reporting Standards: Integration of expanded public sector reporting standards issued by the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board and expanded corporate reporting standards issued by the International Sustainability Standards Board.

“These revisions help IFAC members continue to lead with integrity and excellence, ensuring their organizations remain resilient, innovative, and trusted worldwide. By following the SMOs, our members strengthen the adoption of international standards, reinforce quality and public interest systems, and demonstrate the collective strength of a truly global accountancy profession,” said Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer.

The revisions were approved by the IFAC Board in February 2026. To support implementation, IFAC has published a summary table of revisions and a frequently asked questions (FAQ) document to help members quickly understand the changes. IFAC will also host member webinars in May.

About IFAC
IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together with the Forum of Firms and other key stakeholders to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) welcomes the announcement of Emily Fitts as the new Chair of the Monitoring Group.

The Monitoring Group plays an important role in advancing the public interest by supporting the governance and oversight of the international audit, assurance, and ethics standard-setting system.

Lee White, Chief Executive Officer of IFAC, said:

“We congratulate Emily on her appointment and look forward to working with her as the new Chair of the Monitoring Group.”

IFAC will continue to work closely with the Monitoring Group and other stakeholders to support high-quality global standards that strengthen trust and confidence in the accountancy profession.
 

About IFAC 

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together with the Forum of Firms and other key stakeholders to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) and the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) welcome the appointment of Emily Fitts as the new Chair of the Monitoring Group. The Monitoring Group is a group of international financial institutions and regulatory bodies committed to advancing the public interest in areas related to international audit standard setting and audit quality.

Commenting on Ms. Fitts’ appointment, Gabriela Figueiredo Dias and Tom Seidenstein, Chairs of the IESBA and IAASB respectively, said: 

“We are pleased to welcome Emily Fitts as the new Chair of the Monitoring Group. Her extensive experience in public accounting and public service, including her leadership on international audit and standard-setting matters at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, brings valuable insight to this important role. 

“The Monitoring Group plays a vital role in supporting the credibility and effectiveness of the international audit, assurance, ethics, and independence standard-setting system. We are confident that under Ms. Fitts’ leadership, the Monitoring Group will continue to advance high-quality global standards that serve investors and the broader public interest. 

“We look forward to working closely with Ms. Fitts and continuing our strong engagement with the Monitoring Group. Together, we remain committed to ensuring that international standards evolve in step with the needs of global markets and stakeholders. 

“We also thank Ryan Wolfe for his leadership and contributions during his tenure as Chair.” 

Note for Editors
Monitoring Group Members: The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, European Commission, Financial Stability Board, International Association of Insurance Supervisors, International Forum of Independent Audit Regulators, International Organization of Securities Commissions, and the World Bank

About IAASB and IESBA 
The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board and the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants are part of the International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA), a nonprofit organization that supports high-quality, international ethics, audit, and assurance standards in the public interest. The IAASB and IESBA develop and issue their standards independently and in accordance with an approved due process and the Public Interest Framework, overseen by the Public Interest Oversight Board. 

The IAASB develops auditing, assurance, related services, and quality management standards and guidance in the public interest that support consistent performance of quality engagements. 

The IESBA is an independent global standard-setting board that serves the public interest by developing high-quality international ethics and independence standards. These standards promote ethical behavior in business and strengthen public trust in financial and non-financial information, which is essential for the effective functioning and long-term sustainability of organizations, markets, and economies worldwide. 

The IAASB and IESBA develop and issue their standards independently and in accordance with an approved due process and the Public Interest Framework, overseen by the Public Interest Oversight Board. 

For copyright, trademark, and permissions information, please visit Permissions. 

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) released new global research analyzing the rapid growth of private equity (PE) investment in professional accountancy firms and its potential implications for the future of the profession. 

As a global organization representing over 188 professional accountancy organizations in more than 140 jurisdictions, IFAC is sizing the scale of the trend and identifying its potential implications for transaction structures, firm oversight, independence and conflicts of interest, audit quality, consolidation and competition, and the attractiveness of the profession through research and extensive engagement with stakeholders, including firms, regulators, investors, and professional bodies.  

As part of a broader global phenomenon, IFAC has identified more than 1,000 accountancy firms worldwide that have experienced private equity investment over the past ten years, with activity accelerating significantly since 2022. While transactions are currently concentrated in Continental Europe, the United Kingdom and Ireland, and the United States, the trend is increasingly shaping the profession globally. The research indicates that fewer than 200 initial or direct private equity investments have facilitated nearly 900 subsequent transactions, underscoring a significant wave of consolidation across the profession. 

Lee White, Chief Executive Officer, IFAC said: “Regardless of ownership structure, the integrity, quality, and independence that underpin our work as professional accountants must remain non-negotiable. Trust, confidence, and a steadfast commitment to the public interest are what define the profession—and they must continue to guide its future development. Some firms are exploring private equity as a way to accelerate transformation, strengthen their capabilities, and offer new career pathways.  

I would like to thank Fiona Wilkinson and the members of the Private Equity Task Force for their diligent work and thoughtful analysis in advancing this important conversation.” 

Fiona Wilkinson, Chair of IFAC’s Private Equity Task Force, said: “As Chair of a task force of volunteers established by IFAC last year,  I have had the opportunity to talk with many experts representing different points of view on the potential risks and benefits of PE investment in the accountancy profession. Our approach has been balanced and data-driven. 

I encourage leaders in the profession to do the same and to assess whether or not, over the long run, firms that focus on the benefits and opportunities of PE investment—while managing the potential challenges and risks—can become more resilient, future-fit, and more attractive, while upholding their public interest responsibility.” 

The objective of this work is to raise awareness and enhance understanding so that accountancy professionals can engage in informed, evidence-based discussions with regulators, clients, and other stakeholders, while providing a globally comprehensive source of data and analysis on this rapidly emerging market trend. IFAC will continue to engage with its member organizations and stakeholders worldwide to monitor developments, share insights, and support the profession in navigating this period of change responsibly and transparently. 

Visit the “Private Equity Investment in Accountancy” webpage to access the research, data, and related resources.
 

About IFAC 

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together with the Forum of Firms and other key stakeholders to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) today published a summary of feedback from its global Technology Quality Management roundtables, which explored how emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence—are affecting audit and assurance engagements and the application of the IAASB’s quality management standards.

The roundtables, held in the second half of 2025, brought together more than 240 stakeholders from six continents, including auditors, regulators, standard setters, firms, and technology specialists. Discussions focused on current and emerging uses of technology in audit and assurance, related governance and risk management challenges, and stakeholder expectations for maintaining trust and consistency in the use of emerging technological tools, including AI-enabled tools in engagements. This starts with robust quality management of such tools.

“At a time when the use of AI in audit and assurance is expanding rapidly, stakeholders told us clearly that global consistency and practical clarity matter,” said Tom Seidenstein, IAASB Chair. “The roundtable feedback confirms that our quality management standards remain robust and principles-based, while highlighting areas where additional non-authoritative guidance could support consistent application as technologies continue to evolve.”

Participants broadly agreed that the IAASB’s quality management standards—particularly International Standard on Quality Management (ISQM) 1 and International Standard on Auditing (ISA) 220 (Revised)—provide a strong foundation for managing technology-related risks. At the same time, stakeholders noted that the IAASB could assist by developing additional practical guidance to help address challenges associated with emerging technologies.

The IAASB will use the roundtable feedback, along with other stakeholder feedback, to inform its future work on Technology Quality Management. In December 2025, the IAASB approved the development of non-authoritative material. At its March meeting, the IAASB will discuss a proposed action plan that includes the objective and scope of the initiative, identification of possible themes or topics to be addressed, the proposed development process and coordination with the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) and other organizations.

The summary report, Technology Quality Management Roundtables: Outcomes and Next Steps, is available on the IAASB website.

More information about the Technology Quality Management initiative, including ongoing updates, is available on the IAASB’s project web page.

About the IAASB
The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board develops auditing, assurance, related services, and quality management standards and guidance in the public interest that support consistent performance of quality engagements. Along with the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants, the IAASB is part of the International Foundation for Ethics and Audit. The Public Interest Oversight Board oversees IAASB and IESBA activities and the public interest responsiveness of the standards. For copyright, trademark, and permissions information, please visit Permissions.

The accountancy profession is evolving rapidly, shaped by shifting business models, changing capital markets, technological advancement, and rising expectations of professional judgment and leadership.

International Federation of Accountants’ (IFAC) advisory groups play a critical role in helping the global profession navigate these changes. Bringing together experienced practitioners, educators, and leaders from across regions and sectors, the groups provide practical insight into how global trends are affecting professional accountants and the organizations they serve.

Through their work, IFAC’s advisory groups:

• Provide forward-looking perspectives on emerging developments affecting the profession
• Support efforts to strengthen the profession’s relevance, resilience, and attractiveness
• Contribute practical insight to the development of tools, resources, and guidance
• Help connect global standard setting with real-world business and professional experience

Advisory groups represented include:

• The International Panel on Accountancy Education, which supports the advancement of high-quality, future-focused accountancy education worldwide.
• The Professional Accountancy Organization Development and Advisory Group, which supports strong, resilient, and sustainable professional accountancy organizations.
• The Professional Accountants in Business Advisory Group, which considers global trends affecting CFOs, finance leaders, boards, and audit committees across sectors.
• The Small and Medium Practices Advisory Group, which provides input and practical resources to support SMPs and SMEs and promote their essential role in the global economy.

IFAC warmly welcomes the new members joining its advisory groups in 2026 and thanks departing members for their dedication and service to the profession.

Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said:

“At a time of significant change for the global profession, IFAC’s advisory groups play an essential role in bringing together insight, experience, and perspective from across jurisdictions and sectors. Their contributions help ensure the profession remains relevant, resilient, and attractive, while continuing to earn trust and serve the public interest. I am pleased to welcome our new members and thank those concluding their terms for their valued service to the global profession.”

(Members below listed with employer and nominating organizations)

International Panel on Accountancy Education

New Members

• Sven Hayn, Owner & CEO, WP Hayn | Institut der Wirtschaftsprüfer and Wirtschaftsprüferkammer (Germany)
• Jen Rimes, Director, Global Assurance, BDO Global | BDO Global (USA)
• Susan Smith, Professor of Accounting, University College London (UCL) School of Management | Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (United Kingdom)
• Roopa Venkatesh, Director, School of Accounting, University of Nebraska at Omaha | University of Nebraska at Omaha (USA)
• Samantha Wilson, General Manager, CA Program, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand | Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ) and CPA Australia

Returning Member & Deputy Chair

• Jan Taylor, Senior Director, Academic in Residence, Association of International Certified Professional Accountants–AICPA | AICPA (USA)

Departing Members

• Susan Flis, Senior Manager, Global Professional Practice, Methodology & Enablement |  Ernst & Young LLP (USA)
• Simon Hann, Group Executive, Education & Marketing | Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and CPA Australia (Australia)
• Irene Wiecek, Professor, Teaching Stream at University of Toronto Mississauga | CPA Canada (Canada)

Professional Accountancy Organization Development and Advisory Group

New Members

• Lamyaa AlRasheed, Partner, EY | The Saudi Organization for Chartered and Professional Accountants (Saudi Arabia)
• Mahbub Ahmed Siddique, Chief Operating Officer, The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh | The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (Bangladesh)

Returning Member

• Mkombozi Karake, Chief Executive Officer, Global Institute of Governance and Sustainability (GIGS) | Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (Rwanda)

Departing Members

• Sheree Ebanks, Chief Executive Officer, Cayman Islands Institute of Professional Accountants | Cayman Islands Institute of Professional Accountants (Cayman Islands)
• Razak Jaiyeola, Chief Executive Officer, A.J. Silicon Tech | Institute of Chartered Accountant of Nigeria (Nigeria)

Professional Accountants in Business Advisory Group

New Members

• John Bugunya, Self-Employed | Institute of Certified Public Accountants (Rwanda)
• Nametso Masuku, Finance Manager, Debswana Diamond Company | Botswana Institute of Chartered Accountants (Botswana)
• Michi Sasano, Representative Director and CEO, Control Solutions K.K. | Japanese Institute of Certified Public Accountants (Japan)

Returning Members

• Esther Bosch, Director Risk & Audit, Royal Schiphol Group | Royal Nederlandse Beroepsorganisatie van Accountants (Netherlands)
• Mike Driver, Independent Board Chair, Non-Executive Director | Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (United Kingdom)
• Lindawati Gani, Professor in Management Accounting, Universitas Indonesia | Institute of Indonesia Chartered Accountants (Indonesia)
• Muhammad Samiullah Siddiqui, Director Finance, Oxford University Press | Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (Pakistan)

Departing Members

• Ichiro Waki, Chief Executive Officer, JBA Group | Japanese Institute of Certified Public Accountants (Japan)
• Gloria Zvaravanhu, Managing Director, Old Mutual ZW | Institute of Chartered Accountants (Zimbabwe)

Small and Medium Practices Advisory Group

New Members

• Graziella Hobeika, Managing Partner, HBK Audit & Advisory | Lebanese Association of Certified Public Accountants (Lebanon)
• Renata Peppe, Senior Audit Manager, Peppe Associados Consultores & Auditores Independentes | Conselho Federal de Contabilidade and Instituto dos Auditores Independentes do Brasil (Brazil)
• Hein Vandelanotte, Partner, Vandelanotte | Institute for Tax Advisors and Accountants (Belgium)

Returning Members

• Comfort Eyitayo, Business Consultant, Comfort Olu. Eyitayo & Co | Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (Nigeria)
• Takuma Kinjo, Managing Partner, RSM Seiwa | Japanese Institute of Certified Public Accountants (Japan)
• Yan Zhao, Director of Continuing Professional Development Department, Chinese Institute of Certified Public Accountants (CICPA) | CICPA (China)

Departing Members

• Monica Stefan, Senior Audit Partner, Soter & Partners | Chamber of Financial Auditors of Romania (Romania)
• Michael Fontaine, President, MF & Associés | Compagnie Nationale des Commissaires aux Comptes and Conseil National de l'Ordre des Experts-Comptables (France)

About IFAC 

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together with the Forum of Firms and other key stakeholders to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

• Launches the strategic planning process for both boards’ next strategies and work plans
• Reflects deepened IESBA-IAASB coordination through a single, streamlined consultation that reduces stakeholder burden
• Announces a coordinated 2026 consultation calendar to support effective and meaningful engagement

The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) and the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) today launched a joint global stakeholder survey, marking the beginning of work toward their respective Strategies and Work Plans (SWPs) for 2028–2031—a period of expected significant change in the global audit, assurance and ethics landscape.

The joint survey represents the first step in the boards’ strategic planning process and will help inform the development of their respective Consultation Papers, targeted for approval at the end of 2026. By launching a single, coordinated survey, IESBA and IAASB are reinforcing their close collaboration while streamlining engagement and reducing duplication for stakeholders, who are invited to contribute to one  rather than parallel surveys.

The survey seeks input from a broad and diverse range of stakeholders, reflecting the global reach and public interest role of both boards. Responses will help the boards better understand how the environment for audit, assurance, ethics, and independence is evolving, and how the public interest can best be served in a rapidly changing global reporting ecosystem.

“As the global audit, assurance, and ethics landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that our strategies are informed by diverse stakeholder perspectives,” said Gabriela Figueiredo Dias and Tom Seidenstein, Chairs of the IESBA and IAASB, respectively. “This joint survey reflects our shared commitment to listening carefully, coordinating closely, and ensuring our work continues to serve the public interest in a rapidly changing environment.”

The survey focuses on three principal areas:

• Strategic positioning for 2028–2031, including how the boards should assess success by the end of the next strategy period;
• Key environmental trends shaping the future of audit, assurance, ethics, and independence, such as digital transformation, geopolitical and regulatory developments, sustainability expectations, and evolving business models of accounting firms; and
• Opportunities for joint or parallel action, where closer coordination between IESBA and IAASB could enhance impact and effectiveness.

Stakeholders may respond to all questions or only those most relevant to their perspectives. All responses will form part of the public record and will be published on the boards’ websites in accordance with their due process.

The survey is open until May 15 and can be accessed online here.

Reducing Consultation Fatigue through Coordination

The joint survey also reflects a deliberate effort by IESBA and IAASB to coordinate their consultation activities, particularly during 2026, a year expected to include a significant volume of consultations.

While the boards often consult similar stakeholder groups, they recognize that individuals within those groups may respond to either ethics-focused consultations or audit and assurance-focused consultations, notwithstanding that some issues or topics may be of common relevance to both boards. Through careful planning, including staggering consultation timelines, the boards aim to avoid multiple consultations closing at the same time, supporting more effective participation and higher-quality feedback.

Anticipated 2026 IESBA and IAASB Public Consultations

Joint

• Joint SWP Stakeholder Survey, January 21–May 15

IESBA

• Role of CFOs Survey, February 2–April 24
• Post-Implementation Review of the Restructured Code Survey, April 1–July 3
• Post-Implementation Review of the Provisions on Responding to Non-Compliance with Laws and Regulations (NOCLAR) Survey, April 1–July 30

IAASB

• Post-Implementation Review of ISA 540 (Revised) Survey, February 17–June 15
• Exposure Draft for Proposed ISRE 2410 (Revised), Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity, May 6–September 3
• Exposure Draft for the Maintenance of the ISA for Less Complex Entities, July 16–October 29
• Exposure Draft for Proposed Revisions to ISA 330, The Auditor’s Responses to Assessed Risks, ISA 500, Audit Evidence, and ISA 520, Analytical Procedures, July 28–December 15

About IAASB and IESBA
The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board^© and the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants^© are part of the International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA) ^©, a nonprofit organization that supports high-quality, international ethics, audit, and assurance standards in the public interest. The IAASB and IESBA develop and issue their standards independently and in accordance with an approved due process and the Public Interest Framework, overseen by the Public Interest Oversight Board.

The IAASB develops auditing, assurance, related services, and quality management standards and guidance in the public interest that support consistent performance of quality engagements.

The IESBA is an independent global standard-setting board. The IESBA’s mission is to serve the public interest by setting high-quality, international ethics (including independence) standards as a cornerstone to ethical behavior in business and organizations, and to public trust in financial and non-financial information that is fundamental to the proper functioning and sustainability of organizations, financial markets and economies worldwide.