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  • IFAC Launches “Opening Doors” Principles to Broaden Access to the Accountancy Profession

    New York, New York English

    The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), with support from the Global Public Policy Committee (GPPC), has released Opening Doors: Six Principles of Best Practice to Increase Access to Accountancy Qualifications.

    The principles provide a practical framework for IFAC’s members and other professional accountancy organizations (PAOs) to welcome talent from diverse backgrounds, remove unnecessary barriers, and adapt qualification pathways—while maintaining the high standards that underpin public trust.

    “The accountancy profession is enriched through talent drawn from the widest breadth possible,” said IFAC Chief Executive Officer Lee White. “I am excited by the opportunity Opening Doors creates to engage future talent in new ways and respond to the evolving workplace. Our members uphold the highest standards of integrity and quality, and together we are building a broader-based, innovative and connected profession—one that is forward-looking and equipped to sustain public trust.”

    The Six Principles focus on:

    • Encouraging entry from diverse educational backgrounds.
    • Recognizing and valuing prior work experience.
    • Removing unnecessary barriers to access.
    • Offering flexible qualification formats and delivery.
    • Enabling career step-off points.
    • Driving global reciprocity and mobility.

    Some IFAC members have already embedded these principles into their operating models, demonstrating how the principles can broaden access to the profession in practice. For others, Opening Doors likely marks a fresh approach—an opportunity to reimagine pathways into accountancy and strengthen engagement with future talent.

    Adaptable to local contexts and regulatory environments, the principles reflect emerging best practices from around the world. By adopting them, PAOs can create more inclusive pathways into the profession—ensuring it remains future-ready, connected, and committed to delivering value to economies, markets, and society.

    Opening Doors is also the first in a series of new IFAC initiatives that will help the profession remain competitive and reset how it engages with future talent. A panel discussion at IFAC’s upcoming IFAC Global Connect conference in November in Mexico City will also spotlight the principles and foster a dynamic discussion with IFAC members.

    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 to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

  • Joint Statement from the IAASB and IESBA Chairs and IFEA Co-CEOs on the Appointment of Tshegofatso Modise as PIOB Chair

    English

    On behalf of IAASB, IESBA and IFEA, we warmly congratulate Tshegofatso (Tshego) B. Modise on her appointment as Chair of the Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB). Ms. Modise brings deep experience in governance, risk management, and the accountancy profession, and we look forward to working with her to advance the public interest through strong, globally accepted assurance and ethics standards.

    We also extend our sincere gratitude to Linda de Beer for her dedicated leadership of the PIOB over the past five years. Her tenure coincided with a period of profound change, during which she oversaw the careful implementation of the Monitoring Group’s 2020 Recommendations and guided the PIOB’s oversight through a time of significant global challenge and transformation.

    The IAASB and IESBA share with the PIOB a commitment to enhancing trust and confidence in the audit and accountancy profession and the information it provides to stakeholders worldwide. Under Ms. Modise’s leadership, we are confident that our close collaboration with the PIOB will continue to strengthen the international standard-setting system and deliver standards that serve the global public interest.

    Gabriela Figueiredo Dias
    Chair, International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA)
    Co-CEO, International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA)

    Tom Seidenstein
    Chair, International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB)
    Co-CEO, International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA)

  • Leading Transformation and Innovation: IFAC Connect MENA Opens in Riyadh

    New York City | Riyadh English

    The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) in partnership with the Saudi Organization for Chartered and Professional Accountants (SOCPA), IFAC member, has convened leaders from across the Middle East and North Africa this week in Riyadh for IFAC Connect MENA 2025. The gathering brings together regulators, standard setters, professional accountancy organizations (PAOs), and stakeholders across the public and private sectors to share perspectives and identify practical ways the profession can advance integrity, innovation, and public value.  

    IFAC-connect-mena-2025

    Today, regional regulators convened to exchange perspectives on how greater collaboration can accelerate the adoption and implementation of international accountancy standards and best practices across the region. PAOs shared forward-looking insights on modernizing education pathways, creating more inclusive workplaces, and defining clear professional development and leadership tracks to attract and retain top talent, particularly women. 

    On October 1, IFAC and SOCPA will engage with regional PAO leaders to build institutional capacity, sharpen relevance and credibility, and strengthen alignment with the public interest through clear value propositions and evidence-based communication. The IPSASB will also hold a roundtable to gather direct feedback from attendees on its work program. 

    On October 2, the main IFAC Connect MENA program will spotlight the global forces shaping the profession: corporate reporting transformation, technology, and artificial intelligence while deepening regional commitments to solutions that foster trust, resilience, and innovation. 

    Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said: “The profession is facing unprecedented transformation. By convening regulators, PAOs, and business leaders in Riyadh, we are ensuring that global priorities are addressed with regional insight and leadership, and that PAOs in MENA move swiftly and boldly to shape solutions that serve the public interest.” 

    Dr. Ahmad Almeghames, CEO of SOCPA and IFAC Board Member, said: “Hosting IFAC Connect MENA reflects our commitment to advancing transparency, integrity, and innovation in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Through partnership with IFAC and our regional colleagues, we are ensuring the profession plays a central role in supporting both national and global priorities.” 

    IFAC Connect MENA follows a gathering in Nairobi this year and in Singapore, Bogotá, and Dubai in 2024. Later this year, the series will continue with IFAC Connect Global in Mexico City and IFAC Connect Asia-Pacific in Jakarta.

    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 to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest. 

    About SOCPA 
    The Saudi Organization for Chartered and Professional Accountants (SOCPA) is Saudi Arabia’s leading professional accountancy body, committed to advancing professional competence, transparency, and accountability, while supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. 

  • IFAC Welcomes Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger as Chair of the IPSASB

    English

    The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) warmly welcomes the appointment of Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger as Chair of the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB) and extends its appreciation to Ian Carruthers, for his 10 years of service as Chair to the IPSASB. Thomas was selected through a rigorous selection process led by the Independent Search Committee under the oversight of the Public Interest Committee. The Search Committee submitted its recommendation to the Public Interest Committee for review, and the IFAC Board approved the selection. 

    Thomas will lead the IPSASB in advancing high-quality International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS Standards) and Sustainability Reporting Standards (IPSASB SRS Standards) and advocating for their use, which support transparency, accountability, and decision-making in governments and public sector entities worldwide. Thomas has over 30 years of experience in public sector accounting and financial management. 

    Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said: “I thank Ian Carruthers for his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to improving public sector financial reporting across the globe. We are delighted to welcome Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger as the next Chair of the IPSASB. His deep expertise and long-standing commitment to the public interest will ensure the IPSASB continues to meet the evolving needs of governments, citizens, and the global accountancy profession.”  

    Jon Blondal, co-chair of the Public Interest Committee, said: 
    “The Public Interest Committee welcomes the appointment of Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger as the next Chair of the IPSASB. We extend our thanks to Vinod Rai, Search Committee Chair, its members, and IFAC leadership for their close cooperation and commitment throughout the process. The selection of Thomas follows a rigorous and transparent process that reflects public interest.” 

    Incoming IPSASB Chair Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger said: 
    “It is an immense honor to be selected as the next IPSASB Chair. For many years, I have been deeply passionate about the Board’s tremendous contribution to sound public financial management globally. I am fully committed to building on the strong foundation established by the Board to further strengthen transparency, accountability, and trust in public sector reporting worldwide. On a personal note, I look forward to working with Board members, the staff team, and all relevant stakeholder groups across the globe. I am driven by the conviction that our work is vital to ensuring governments have the tools they need to achieve sustainable development and sound financial management.”  

    IFAC looks forward to its continuing support of the IPSASB under the leadership of Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger.  

    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 to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.      

    About the Public Interest Committee 
    The governance and standard-setting activities of the IPSASB are overseen by the Public Interest Committee (PIC), to ensure that they follow due process and reflect the public interest. The PIC is comprised of individuals with expertise in public sector or financial reporting, and professional engagement in organizations that have an interest in promoting high-quality and internationally comparable financial information. 

  • IFAC Welcomes Jennifer Lopez as CAPA New Chief Executive and Thanks Brian Blood for his Outstanding Leadership

    London, United Kingdom English

    The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) warmly welcomes the appointment of Jennifer Lopez as the new Chief Executive of the Confederation of Asian and Pacific Accountants (CAPA).

    Jennifer brings to CAPA a proven record of transformative and innovative leadership, most recently demonstrated during her tenure as Executive Director at the British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce. Her vision, strategic acumen, and commitment to collaboration come at a pivotal time for the profession. As IFAC strengthens its approach to regional engagement, Jennifer’s appointment marks an important step to further elevate collaboration between IFAC and CAPA, supporting the advancement of the accountancy profession both regionally and globally.

    Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are delighted to welcome Jennifer Lopez into her new role at CAPA. Jennifer’s track record of innovation and strategic leadership will bring fresh energy and ideas to CAPA’s important mission. Her appointment comes at a time when our profession is navigating profound transformations—driven by sustainability, powered by technology, and shaped by the urgent need to attract, develop, and retain talent.

    I am excited for the opportunities ahead as we work closely with Jennifer and the CAPA team to strengthen our collective impact for the benefit of the global profession and the public interest."

    At the same time, IFAC expresses its deep gratitude to Brian Blood, who is stepping down after a remarkable tenure as CAPA’s Chief Executive Officer. "Brian has been a tireless champion for the profession in the Asia-Pacific region.

    "Under his leadership, CAPA has become a true force—supporting PAOs through the Maturity Model, championing SMPs and Accounting Technicians, and producing vital resources on public sector reporting, ethics, and quality assurance. Brian has also been a generous advisor and friend to IFAC—always thoughtful and committed,” said Mr White. 

    With Jennifer’s leadership and Brian’s enduring legacy, CAPA is well positioned to continue driving impact for its members and for the global 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 to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

  • IAASB 2025 Handbook Now Available for Digital Access and Print Orders

    New York, New York English

    The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) has released the 2025 edition of its Handbook of International Quality Management, Auditing, Review, Other Assurance, and Related Services Pronouncements.

    The IAASB Handbook comprises the following five volumes:

    • Volume 1: International Auditing Practice Notes (IAPNs), International Standards on Auditing (ISAs), and International Standards on Quality Management (ISQMs)
    • Volume 2: International Standard on Auditing for Audits of Financial Statements of Less Complex Entities (the ISA for LCE)
    • Volume 3: International Standard on Sustainability Assurance (ISSA) 5000, General Requirements for Sustainability Assurance Engagements
    • Volume 4: International Standards on Assurance Engagements (ISAEs), International Standards on Review Engagements (ISREs), and International Standards on Related Services (ISRSs)
    • Volume 5: A Framework for Audit Quality: Key Elements that Create an Environment for Audit Quality and the International Framework for Assurance Engagements

    The following standards, which are not yet effective, are included in the 2025 Handbook:

    The 2025 Handbook is available as a PDF download; print copies can be ordered via the IAASB website.

    Reproducing and Translating the IAASB Handbook
    To help adoption and implementation of the IAASB standards, stakeholders are invited to request permission to reproduce or translate the IAASB handbook via the Online Permissions Requests or Inquiries system on the IFAC website.

    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.

  • IPSASB Announces New and Returning Board Members for 2026

    New York, New York English

    The International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB), developer of reporting standards for the public sector, today announced new and returning members of the Board, following its recent meeting in Lisbon, Portugal. The IPSASB Board continues to reflect broad geographic representation, gender parity, and professional expertise in public sector financial and sustainability reporting. 

    Appointments follow a rigorous nomination and interview process operated by the IFAC Nominating Committee, which is overseen by the Public Interest Committee, and with final approval by the IFAC Board. 

    The following individuals have been appointed for a three-year term of service beginning on January 1, 2026: 

    • Judith Apaza, Bolivia 
    • Dina Attia, United Arab Emirates 
    • George Scott, United States of America 
    • Alex Fabiane Teixeira, Brazil 

    Two current members have been re-appointed:

    • Andrew van der Burgh, South Africa 
    • Nor Yati Ahmad, Malaysia 

    Claudia Beier, Switzerland has been reappointed as Deputy Chair.

    “IPSASB’s strength lies in its ability to bring together diverse perspectives from across the globe,” said IPSASB Chair Ian Carruthers. “Our new and returning members will help ensure the Board continues to deliver high-quality standards that enhance public financial management and support sustainable development.” 

    About the IPSASB 

    The International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB) works to strengthen public financial management globally through developing and maintaining accrual-based International Public Sector Accounting Standards® (IPSAS®) and other high-quality financial reporting guidance and sustainability reporting standards for use by governments and other public sector entities. It also raises awareness of IPSAS and the benefits of accrual adoption. The Board receives support from the Asian Development Bank, the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada, the New Zealand External Reporting Board, the government of Canada, and the World Bank. The structures and processes that support the operations of the IPSASB are facilitated by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). For copyright, trademark, and permissions information, please go to permissions or contact permissions@ifac.org. 

    About the Public Interest Committee 

    The governance and standard-setting activities of the IPSASB are overseen by the Public Interest Committee (PIC), to ensure that they follow due process and reflect the public interest. The PIC is comprised of individuals with expertise in public sector or financial reporting, and professional engagement in organizations that have an interest in promoting high-quality and internationally comparable financial information. 

  • IESBA Publishes New Guidance to Support Implementation of Standards on External Experts and Sustainability Assurance

    New York, NY English

    The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) today released two new staff publications to enhance understanding and support global adoption and implementation of its ethics standard on Using the Work of an External Expert as well as the International Ethics Standards for Sustainability AssuranceTM (including International Independence StandardsTM) (IESSATM), both of which are effective from December 2026. These publications explain key aspects of the standard related to using the work of an external expert and the proportionality of the ethics and independence provisions for sustainability assurance in the IESSA.

    1. Questions and Answers on Using the Work of an External Expert

    This publication is relevant to all professional accountants, whether in business or in public practice, and sustainability assurance practitioners (SAPs). It provides answers to common questions on:

    • Evaluating whether to use the work of an external expert
    • How to identify an external expert
    • The extended requirements for evaluating the objectivity of an external expert in the context of an audit or other assurance (including sustainability) engagement
    • Concluding an external expert’s competence, capabilities and objectivity
    • Potential threats arising from using the work of an external expert
    • Specific considerations related to the IESSA

    Access other resources relating to this standard on the IESBA Experts Page.

    2. Proportionality of the IESSA

    This publication highlights key aspects of the IESSA that illustrate its proportionality, while the IESSA also provides a robust global ethics and independence baseline for sustainability assurance engagements (SAEs). The proportionality of the IESSA enables it to support the performance of SAEs for entities of all sizes, thereby underpinning public trust in those engagements.

    The publication is especially geared towards facilitating the implementation of the IESSA by SAPs that are small and medium practices (SMPs).

    Access other resources relating to the IESSA on the IESBA Sustainability Focus Page.

     

    Both publications may also be helpful to jurisdictional standard setters, regulators and oversight bodies, professional accountancy organizations, educational bodies, and other stakeholders.

    About IESBA

    The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (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.

    Along with the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB), the IESBA is part of the International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA). The Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB) oversees IESBA and IAASB activities and the public interest responsiveness of the standards.

  • Painel sobre Investimento de Private Equity completa programa da Conferência Sobre Ética e Independência do IESBA – Inscrições Virtuais Ainda Abertas

    Lisbon, Portugal Portuguese
    • O programa final anunciado com o investimento de private equity nas firmas de auditoria e contabilidadee em destaque.
    • As conferências principais contarão com Maria Luís Albuquerque (Comissária Europeia), Jean-Paul Servais (Presidente da IOSCO) e Joaquim Miranda Sarmento (Ministro de Estado e das Finanças de Portugal), acompanhados por mais de 20 líderes globais.
    • Mais de 700 inscrições já foram confirmadas, representando 96 jurisdições em seis continentes, com mais de 250 participantes em Lisboa. As inscrições presenciais encontram-se encerradas, mas a participação virtual continua disponível.

    O International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) anunciou hoje o programa final da sua Conferência inaugural de Ética e Independência, que terá lugar no dia 15 de setembro em Lisboa e online.

    O programa ficou concluído com a confirmação dos oradores para o painel da tarde sobre o crescimento do investimento de Private Equity nas firmas de auditoria e contabilidade. O debate, moderado por Ken Siong, Diretor Sénior de Programas do IESBA, contará com Mark Babington, Diretor Executivo de Normas Regulatórias no UK Financial Reporting Council e Membro do Board do IESBA; Liam Boyle, Chief Risk Officer da Teneo; e Wendy Russel, Head of Audit da Grant Thornton UK.

    Este será um dos seis debates temáticos que abordarão os principais desenvolvimentos que estão a moldar a profissão e os serviços financeiros. Entre estes incluem-se também os impactos das alterações regulatórias e da disrupção tecnológica e da inteligência artificial, cultura e governação nas empresas de auditoria e contabilidade, desenvolvimentos relacionados com a informação de sustentabilidade, ética em planeamento fiscal e o papel dos profissionais de contabilidade e auditoria no combate ao crime financeiro.

    Os oradores principais incluem Maria Luís Albuquerque, Comissária Europeia para os Serviços Financeiros e para a União da Poupança e dos Investimentos, Jean-Paul Servais, Presidente da IOSCO, e Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, Ministro de Estado e das Finanças de Portugal. Juntam-se a um prestigiado painel com mais de 20 especialistas e líderes internacionais.

    Mais de 700 participantes já se inscreveram, representando 96 jurisdições em seis continentes, com mais de 250 inscritos para assistir em Lisboa. Embora as inscrições presenciais estejam encerradas, a participação virtual permanece disponível.

    O programa completo e os detalhes de inscrição podem ser consultados em www.ethicsboard.org/iesba-conference-2025.

    Num momento em que a pressão regulatória evolui e a inovação acelera, a conferência oferece uma oportunidade para explorar o papel das práticas éticas e regras de independência  no reforço da competitividade, resiliência e confiança dos cidadãos e investidores nos setores da contabilidade e auditoria, nos mercados financeiros e na economia.

    Esta  é a primeira conferência internacional dedicada à ética e à independência em serviços financeiros organizada pelo IESBA, refletindo o compromisso do Board com a promoção do diálogo com os seus stakeholders a nível internacional. Igualmente, visa contribuir para a adoção dos seus standards, consagrados no seu código internacional de ética de independência — um benchmark já adotado, utilizado ou usado como referência em mais de 130 jurisdições em todo o mundo.

    A Conferência IESBA 2025 marca também o início da reunião do board do IESBA de setembro, que terá lugar em Lisboa, no campus do ISEG – Lisbon School of Economics and Management.

    O evento conta com o apoio generoso do ISEG – Lisbon School of Economics and Management, bem como das duas organizações profissionais portuguesas do setor: a OCC – Ordem dos Contabilistas Certificados e a OROC – Ordem dos Revisores Oficiais de Contas.

    Estes apoios são críticos para permitir a realização da conferência em Lisboa, evidenciando a associação destas organizações ao propósito desta iniciativa do IESBA de dinamização do diálogo internacional, ao mais alto nível, sobre temas de grande atualidade para o setor da contabilidade e auditoria, os mercados financeiros e a economia.

    Sobre o IESBA

    O International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) é um organismo independente de definição de normas internacionais. A sua missão é servir o interesse público através da definição de standards éticos internacionais de elevada qualidade (incluindo normas sobre independência), como base para o comportamento ético nos negócios e nas organizações, e para a confiança pública na informação financeira e não financeira — essencial ao funcionamento e sustentabilidade das organizações, dos mercados financeiros e das economias a nível global.

    Juntamente com o International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB), o IESBA integra a International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA). As atividades do IESBA e do IAASB, bem como a adequação dos seus standards ao interesse público, são supervisionadas pelo Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB).

     

    Contactos para a Imprensa:

    Rui Peres Jorge 

    Director de Comunicação Estratégica 

    International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) 

    ruiperesjorge@ethicsboard.org | Directo: +351 966-301-383

     

    David Johnson 

    Assessor Sénior de Comunicação

    IESBA Communications

    davidjohnson@ethicsboard.org | Directo: +1 (212) 471-8732

     

    Rita Dimas

    Consultora de Comunicação

    Dédalo

    ritadimas@dedalo.pt| Directo: +351 937-675-656

  • Private Equity Investment Panel Completes Program for IESBA Ethics & Independence Conference – Virtual Registration Still Open

    New York, NY English
    • Final program announced with Private Equity in Accounting under the spotlight, alongside panels on regulatory shifts, market transparency, firm culture, technology & AI, and financial crime.
    • Keynotes feature Maria Luís Albuquerque (European Commissioner), Jean-Paul Servais (IOSCO Chair), and Joaquim Miranda Sarmento (Portugal’s Finance Minister), joined by more than 20 global leaders.
    • Over 700 registrants confirmed from nearly 96 jurisdictions across six continents, including more than 250 in Lisbon. In-person registration closed; virtual participation still open.

    The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) today unveiled the final program for its inaugural Ethics and Independence Conference, taking place on September 15 in Lisbon and online.

    The program is complete, with the confirmation of speakers for the afternoon panel on the rise of private equity in accounting firms. The discussion, moderated by Ken Siong, IESBA Program and Senior Director, will feature Mark Babington, Executive Director of Regulatory Standards at the UK Financial Reporting Council and IESBA Board Member; Liam Boyle, Chief Risk Officer at Teneo; and Wendy Russel, Head of Audit at Grant Thornton UK.

    This will be one of six targeted discussions covering key developments shaping the accounting services sector and financial markets. Panels will address regulatory shifts and their impact on accounting and capital markets, sustainability reporting, firm culture and governance, ethical tax planning, the accountant’s role in combatting financial crime, and the ethical implications of technological disruption and AI.

    Keynote speakers include Maria Luís Albuquerque, European Commissioner for Financial Services and the Savings and Investments Union, Jean-Paul Servais, Chair of IOSCO, and Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, Portugal’s Minister of State and Finance. They join a distinguished line-up of more than 20 global experts and leaders.

    More than 700 participants have registered, representing 96 jurisdictions across six continents, with over 250 registered to attend in Lisbon. While in-person registration is now closed, virtual participation remains available.

    The full program and registration details can be found at www.ethicsboard.org/iesba-conference-2025.

    As regulatory pressures intensify and innovation accelerates, the conference offers a timely platform to explore how ethics and independence can strengthen competitiveness, resilience, and public confidence in business, the accounting profession, and global financial markets.

    This event marks IESBA’s first global conference on ethics and independence, reflecting the Board’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders worldwide and promoting the International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including International Independence Standards), a benchmark adopted or referenced in over 130 jurisdictions globally.

    The conference also marks the beginning of the September 2025 IESBA Board Meeting, which will take place at the ISEG – Lisbon School of Economics and Management.

    The event is made possible with the support of ISEG, as well as Portugal’s two professional accountancy organizations: OCC – Ordem dos Contabilistas Certificados and OROC – Ordem dos Revisores Oficiais de Contas.

    Their support was critical to hosting the conference in Lisbon and reflects their alignment with IESBA’s mission to foster international dialogue on timely and pressing issues for the profession, financial markets, and the wider economy.

    About IESBA

    The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (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.

    Along with the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB), the IESBA is part of the International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA). The Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB) oversees IESBA and IAASB activities and the public interest responsiveness of the standards.

     

     

    Media Contacts:

     

    Rui Peres Jorge

    Director of Strategic Communications

    International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA)

    ruiperesjorge@ethicsboard.org | Direct: +351 966-301-383

     

    David Johnson

    Senior Manager

    IESBA Communications

    davidjohnson@ethicsboard.org | Direct: +1 (212) 471-8732