Financial Reporting and Accountability

The rapid development of digital technology has profoundly transformed the global financial system, including in Indonesia. Innovations such as financial technology (fintech), cryptocurrency, and electronic payment systems have provided efficiency and expanded financial inclusion. However, this advancement also poses serious challenges through the rise of digital financial crimes such as investment fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing via online channels. The complexity of these transactions often blurs the identity of perpetrators and weakens the mechanisms of criminal accountability. This article seeks to analyze and reconstruct the concept of criminal accountability within the context of digital financial crimes in Indonesia by combining theoretical and empirical approaches. Through a review of legal norms, criminal law doctrines, and practical cases-such as the Binomo and FEC Trading frauds, and the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) reports-this study formulates a model of accountability that aligns with the realities of the digital era. The findings suggest that Indonesia's criminal law framework requires a paradigmatic reform to clearly determine liability between individuals and corporations in the digital sphere while maintaining fairness and protection of human rights.

The concept of venture philanthropy has been greatly discussed by various parties especially among the policy makers. The increasing social problems call for corporations to respond positively and take responsibilities in the social sector. It encourages venture philanthropy activities among profit and non-profit organizations in enhancing business values and creating positive social impacts. There have been past studies that looked at how venture philanthropy concept can be linked with Islamic philanthropy. Islamic philanthropy includes but not limited to zakat, waqf and sadaqah. The instruments within Islamic philanthropy aim to serve the purpose of narrowing social distance and reducing inequalities. This conceptual paper aims to understand further the concept of venture philanthropy from Islamic perspective. This paper also aims to explore how venture philanthropy approach is applicable in enhancing waqf practices in Malaysia by considering the current governance, policy and law...

Using a large sample of US firms, we show that high audit quality is associated with a higher proportion of public debt and correspondingly a lower proportion of bank debt in firms' debt financing. The findings are robust to endogeneity issues, alternative measures of audit quality, and alternative model specifications. We also find that the effect of audit quality on the debt mix is stronger in firms with high information asymmetry and poor governance. The results suggest that high audit quality improves firms' transparency, alleviating the concerns of public lenders and thereby enabling firms to borrow more information-sensitive public debt. Particularly, the results suggest that high audit quality mitigates the post-contract moral hazard between public debtholders and managers, which in turn reduces the advantage of bank loans arising from bank monitoring. Last, we show that audit quality is incrementally effective and has a substitutive effect over accruals quality (i.e. audit quality is more effective in shifting the debt preference towards public debt when accruals quality is lower).

This study looks at how Nigerian multinational corporations' consolidated financial reporting quality is affected by their adherence to the International Accounting Standards Board's (IASB) Conceptual Framework. The study assessed compliance's impact on three aspects of financial reporting quality timeliness, audit quality (Big Four affiliation), and market-based performance (share price) using a disclosure index. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine data gathered from a sample of 110 firm-year observations. Greater adherence to IASB fundamentals is linked to noticeably longer reporting lags, according to panel regression predicting timeliness (FRQ_AQM) (B =-22.37, p <.001). Compliance has no statistically significant impact on audit quality or share price, but it has a significant negative impact on timeliness. These results imply that while thorough disclosures might improve openness

This study examined the effect of board attributes on profitability of listed agricultural companies in Nigeria. The study used a sample size of five (5) agricultural companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) as at December 2023. Relevant data for the study was extracted from the annual reports and accounts of the sampled companies for a period of fourteen (14) years (2010-2023). The data generated was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Correlation matrix, Ordinary Least Square (OLS) and Generalized Least Square (GLS) regression. The findings reveal that board size, board gender diversity and board meeting have significant effect on profitability of listed agricultural companies in Nigeria while board composition has insignificant effect on profitability. The study therefore recommended that board size should be maintained at an average size in order to optimize firm performance. More so, management should increase as much as possible the board size bearing in mind Nigeria Securities and Exchange Commission corporate governance Code requirement of minimum of five and maximum of fifteen members. Also, both gender (male and female) should be appointed into board of directors providing that they are qualified and willing to serve. However, the optimal board size in relation to the scale of the firm's operation and legal provisions should always be taken into consideration in deciding the ultimate board size.

Based on data from 1,281 observations on Vietnam's stock market in the period 2009-2015, the article clarified two fundamental issues by identifying the existence of earnings management of listed companies and analyzing the factors influencing earnings management such as business sectors, auditing firms, and debt-to-equity ratio. The findings of the article contributed to the limited research on earnings management on Vietnam's stock market in particular as well as on the disclosure of earnings information of Vietnam's enterprises in general.

This research focuses on the relationship between the quality of financial reporting and the level of corporate governance of Brazilian firms, particularly between New Market and Traditional Market. We measure earnings quality based on a widely used accruals model. Governance quality is represented by the type of market the firms chooses to be listed in. Firms that opt for the New Market must apply more stringent governance principles. The empirical analysis shows evidence of a positive relationship between the quality of financial reporting and the level of corporate governance. Thus, firms listed on the New Market characterized by better governance practices evidence better quality financial reporting.

This article discussed the historiography of oil history presented in this review article. This article aimed to demonstrate that oil historians are continually conversing with one another through their publications, even if it is not always visible. This historiographical perspective was supposed to provide a valuable framework for understanding this debate. This article used descriptive analysis in analyzing data to examine major disputes in oil history and how interpretations of those debates have influenced the trajectory of oil history and diplomatic and economic events. The Prize, a famous work by Daniel Yergin, focused on the article&#39;s debate. The goal was to examine historical events or topics in oil history from many angles, drawing on several sources that have affected historians&#39; contributions to the field. According to the article, Oil has always been linked to a quest for money and power. The global economy, the result of conflicts, and the political landscape o...

We investigate the effects of securities regulation, enacted by the European Union (EU) (namely, the Transparency Directive -TPD) to improve the quality of financial reporting and disclosure, on the information environment around stock-financed acquisition announcements. EU directives comprised in the Financial Services Action Plan aim to improve the information quality that flows to investors, which may help reduce the adverse selection discount when stock is used as the method of payment in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&As). We use a difference-in-differences methodology and document a significant increase in announcement returns of stock-paid acquisitions by European acquirers after the change in regulation. We also find that this result accrues essentially to companies with better firm-specific information quality and companies domiciled in EU countries with better institutional quality and shareholder protection. Our results highlight how the impact of the same regulation may differ depending on country and firm-level attributes associated with the information environment.

This paper evaluates the influence of standardized valuation reporting frameworks on improving financial transparency and stakeholder trust. It explores how harmonized reporting formats and clear valuation assumptions foster comparability and reduce information asymmetry. Drawing on qualitative studies and global regulatory trends, it concludes that standardized reporting enhances communication between valuers, regulators, and investors. The study underscores challenges in implementation, including adaptability across sectors and training. It advocates for global convergence in valuation report templates to ensure consistency, particularly in cross-border transactions.

This paper investigates how internal audit can serve as a catalyst for organizational learning and accountability. It focuses on mechanisms such as post-audit reviews, audit follow-ups, and stakeholder feedback loops that ensure audit findings lead to actionable improvements. The research finds that integrating these elements into audit workflows strengthens accountability and fosters a culture of continuous improvement. The added value lies in its practical roadmap for linking audit outcomes with governance reforms, driving measurable organizational development.

Australia is a multicultural “melting-pot” with one of the most linguistically and culturally diverse populations in the world. People have immigrated to Australia from nearly 200 countries, represent more than 300 ethnic ancestries, and speak over 300 languages, and Arabic is among one of the most prominent languages spoken other than English (ABS, 2017). Within this mix, there is a small but vibrant Muslim community of slightly more than 600,000, from 183 different countries of origin (Hassan, 2018). Further, although the wider Muslim community is a relatively recent development, it has set about building its own institutions across the country in a number of arenas, including the not-for-profit (NFP) sector, that provide a wide variety of services. Thus, the aim of this chapter is to provide an overview of the development of the Muslim diasporas in Australia and the context in which their NFP organizations operate.

Background: This community service initiative inspires a brighter future by enhancing governance and financial transparency of Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDES) in Indonesia, specifically BUMDES Patandang Cangkuang Kulon. By fostering innovation and strengthening governance, it empowers rural communities to thrive through improved management practices and technology. Contribution: The project provides a replicable model for enhancing BUMDES governance through participatory training and digital financial tools.
Method: A participatory approach was used, involving needs assessment, focus group discussions, training sessions, and implementation of the SIABDes Taxion software for accounting and PPh21 tax reporting.
Results: The program involved 27 participants from four BUMDES. Post-training evaluation showed an average post-test score of 82.05% and a participant satisfaction rate of 100%, indicating increased capacity in financial governance and system adoption.
Conclusion: The program addressed key challenges in BUMDES financial governance. Sustained mentoring and adequate resource support remain essential for long-term success.

Knowledge- based firms have a large proportion of their investment in intangible assets and this poses a real challenge both for financial and managerial accounting that traditionally have not adequately reflected the investment and performance of intangibles in financial statements. This study examines the impact of intellectual capital efficiency on profitability of six listed healthcare firms in Nigeria between 2008 and 2017. This was examined by means of value-added intellectual coefficient (VAIC) and it analyses how intellectual capital efficiency affects the profitability of these firms measured by return on assets (ROA). Multiple regression technique was applied on data to draw inferences. The finding of the study reveals that structural capital efficiency has positive and significant impact on the ROA of the firms under study. On the other hand, human capital efficiency and relational capital have no significant impact on the profitability of the firms. Based on the finding of the study, which shows that structural capital efficiency (SCE) has significant impact on ROA, it is therefore recommended that listed healthcare firms in Nigeria should continue to invest more on their internal capital such as patent, trademarks and so on in order to better their performance since this hidden capital have been seen as assets that can generate revenue and enhance the performance of an organisation positively.

This study examines the link between outside directors and audit fees. The study used data from 94 non-financial-listed companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange from 2008 to 2013. The study used cross-sectional time-series feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) regression, which explains heteroscedasticity and autocorrelation in testing the effect of non-independent non-executive directors and independent non-executive directors on auditor pricing decisions in Nigeria. Our result indicates that the proportion of non-independent non-executive directors on boards has a negative relationship with audit fees, whereas the proportion of independent non-executive directors has a positive relationship with audit fees. Further analysis reveals that block shareholding moderates the effect between outside directors and audit fees. These findings have both policy and practical implications on corporate governance. For instance, future regulatory reforms can consider collaborative board models instead of the insistence on more independent director presence in the boardroom.

This study examines the link between outside directors and audit fees. The study used data from 94 non-financial-listed companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange from 2008 to 2013. The study used cross-sectional time-series feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) regression, which explains heteroscedasticity and autocorrelation in testing the effect of non-independent non-executive directors and independent non-executive directors on auditor pricing decisions in Nigeria. Our result indicates that the proportion of non-independent non-executive directors on boards has a negative relationship with audit fees, whereas the proportion of independent non-executive directors has a positive relationship with audit fees. Further analysis reveals that block shareholding moderates the effect between outside directors and audit fees. These findings have both policy and practical implications on corporate governance. For instance, future regulatory reforms can consider collaborative board model...

Subjectivity has been an all-important concept for academic research, as well as used as a tool for intervening in social and political life of a people, since the 1960s and 1970s. The idea of subjectivity had a catalytic impact in changing the terms of the debate in History and Social Sciences, postcolonial theory, gender studies, cultural and media studies, social theory, and the other disciplines in the humanities. Subjectivity which relates to the quality of possessing perspectives and experiences, feelings, beliefs, desires, and power employed in the attempt at explanation for what influences, and informs people's judgment about truth or reality. In this paper, we shall attempt to examine the role of leaders of the Nigerian state in tackling the challenges/problems faced by the various sections of the Nigerian polity. These problems include, religious crisis, marginalization, resource equity, among others, and they constitute the National question. The paper concludes that the difficulty in answering the Nigerian question, to a large extent, result from the influence of subjectivity in viewing and tackling these problems by successive leaders emerging mainly from the majority tribes of the country.

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of bank-specific and corporate governance mechanisms on the financial and social disclosure level of Ethiopian commercial banks. To address this objective, six years of secondary data were collected from seventeen commercial banks. Financial and social disclosure levels, measured using an unweighted disclosure index, were used as dependent variables, while bankspecific characteristics (such as profitability, age, size, leverage, and liquidity) and corporate governance mechanisms (such as board size, board diversity, board independence, audit committee size, and audit committee independence) were used as independent variables. Generalized Least Squares (GLS) estimation was used to examine the association between dependent and independent variables and to test the hypotheses. The results evidenced by GLS regression revealed that profitability, bank size, and board size have a significantly positive effect on financial disclosure. Conversely, leverage, liquidity, and audit committee independence significantly negatively affect financial disclosure. However, age, board diversity, and audit committee size have no significant effect on the financial disclosure level of Ethiopian commercial banks. Moreover, the results documented from FGLS estimation indicate that profitability has a positive significant effect on social disclosure, whereas liquidity

This paper reviews how well fiscal decentralization has been implemented and how successful these projects have been in achieving a new level of local government financial capacity and service delivery. It reviews the research literature that has assessed the success and failure rates of fiscal decentralization in a global context. Overall, the levels of success have not been encouraging with fiscal decentralization having a positive impact. A case study of how fiscal decentralization has been implemented in Albania provides insights into the common mistakes that have been made in implementing fiscal decentralization projects. Professor Roy Bahl in a 1999 paper titled "Implementation Rules for Fiscal Decentralization" defined the basic approach to implementing fiscal decentralization and many of these rules have been the guiding principles for implementing fiscal decentralization. This paper addresses the deficiencies in these rules based on the experiences over the past decades and formulates new rules for implementing fiscal decentralization. It then assesses the old and new rules against the case study of Albania as a means of predicting if the fiscal decentralization will succeed. The paper concludes that new and original thinking about the implementation rules need to be formulated and encourages more dialogue and discussion among researchers and practitioners engaged in implementing fiscal decentralization.

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are essential to the South African economy. The corporations Act of South Africa (71 of 2008) mandates that corporations adhere to either complete International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or IFRS for Small and Medium-sized Entities (SMEs). The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) established IFRS for SMEs in 2009 as an alternative framework for qualifying firms, providing an option in lieu of the comprehensive IFRS standards. Notwithstanding its deployment, the impact of IFRS for SMEs on financial reporting quality (FRQ) in South Africa has not been extensively examined. The research involved a sample of twenty accounting firms, with five businesses chosen from each municipality to manage Annual Financial Statements (AFS) for five SMEs each, culminating in a total of 100 SMEs. Due to the absence of a universally accepted metric for evaluating FRQ, the study utilised three previously established measures together with an aggregate measure. The research employed Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) Regression analysis to investigate trends in FRQ over two time periods: 2010-2014 and 2015-2019. Findings demonstrate no substantial enhancement in FRQ among Vhembe SMEs over time. Discretionary accruals exhibited stability, indicating consistent reporting quality. The results underscore the significance of accrual accounting and standardised methodologies, enhancing the quality and dependability of financial data for stakeholders. This research offers essential insights for accountants, business proprietors, investors, and regulatory entities, highlighting the beneficial effects of IFRS for SMEs on the quality of financial reporting among South African SMEs.

This paper explored the Board's delegation practices in Malaysia's company limited by guarantee (CLBG). It investigated the decision-making process, regulatory compliance, and disclosure of the Board's functions in promoting transparency to the stakeholder/public. The methodology involves a survey from CLBG. The study used a correlation analysis to determine the significant determinants of board delegation practices. The results showed that decision-making and disclosure of information in annual reports or websites could show the delegation role of the Board of directors. However, the sample only covers 20 CLBGs in Klang Valley and Selangor as the pilot study.

Objective: This study aims at studying the impact of the adoption of the international financial reporting standards IFRS on the audit quality from the perspective of Yemeni auditors. Before conducting the study, the research proposed a positive and significant causal of the adoption of the international financial reporting standards IFRS on the audit quality from the perspective of Yemeni auditors. Materials and Methods: The study applied the quantitative methods of correlation and regression analysis. A total of 100 auditors were targeted. Questionnaires were sent manually and electronically to the auditors. Eighty-four questionnaires were retained and analyzed. Results: The study found that the positive and significant effect of the adoption of the international financial reporting standards IFRS on the audit quality from the perspective of Yemeni auditors. Conclusions: Based findings of this study, that the companies should increase their adoption rate of the IFRS standards.

External audits for SMEs are often voluntary, leaving the decision to managers or owners. This study examines how the effectiveness of accounting information systems (AIS) and the quality of internal audits influence SME managers' perceptions of external audits in a developing economy. Using Structural equation modeling, survey data from SME managers were analyzed. The results reveal that effective AIS and high-quality internal audits significantly enhance positive perceptions of external audits.  Effective  AIS, characterized by clear policies and adherence to accounting standards, improves financial transparency and decision-making. High-quality internal audits strengthen oversight, fostering trust in external audits. The findings highlight the interconnectedness of internal systems and external auditing, especially in SMEs transitioning to formal economies. By focusing on a developing market context, the study contributes to the literature by addressing the increasing importance of voluntary audits amid regulatory reforms. SME managers view external audits as beneficial for enhancing credibility, accessing loans, and ensuring financial reliability. The findings offer practical implications,  emphasizing the need for stronger internal systems to support external audit adoption.

This study explores the influence of financial technology (Fintech) innovations, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting, and blockchain technology on financial transparency and accountability through a qualitative literature review. By examining a diverse range of academic papers, industry reports, and case studies, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these factors contribute to enhancing financial transparency and accountability in the modern financial landscape. The literature review reveals that Fintech innovations, including mobile banking, peer-to-peer lending, and automated investment services, significantly improve financial transparency by providing more accessible and realtime financial information to stakeholders. These innovations enhance accountability by enabling more efficient and accurate tracking of financial transactions and performance. ESG reporting, which involves disclosing information related to a company's environmental impact, social practices, and governance structures, plays
a crucial role in promoting financial transparency. It ensures that stakeholders are informed about the non-financial aspects of a company’s operations, thereby fostering greater accountability and ethical business practices. The integration of blockchain technology further enhances transparency and accountability by offering a decentralized and immutable ledger system that ensures the integrity and traceability of financial transactions. This technology reduces the risk of fraud and
corruption, providing a transparent and accountable framework for financial reporting. Despite these benefits, the study also highlights challenges such as regulatory hurdles, the need for technological infrastructure, and concerns over data privacy and security. The findings suggest that the combined use of Fintech, ESG reporting, and blockchain technology has the potential to significantly improve financial transparency and accountability, provided that these challenges are
addressed. This research offers valuable insights for financial institutions,
policymakers, and technology developers aiming to enhance financial practices through innovative solutions.

This research paper aims to shed light on the impact of the Organic Finance Law (OFL
18-15) on the public accounting profession, with a particular focus on the challenges and
opportunities this sector faces in the context of financial reforms. The study adopts a dual
approach: a theoretical section reviews and a practical side, a field study was conducted
at the Ministry of Finance, employing both quantitative and qualitative research tools,
including interviews with experts and financial executives, as well as the examination of
official documents. The findings indicate that Algeria has made significant progress in
modernizing its public accounting system through the issuance of the Organic Finance
Law and Law 23-07. However, major challenges persist in the transition to accrual
accounting, particularly regarding the need for qualified personnel, delays in issuing
executive decrees, and the ongoing lag in inventorying and assessing state assets.
Key Words: Organic Finance Law 15-18, Public Accounting Law 07-23, Accrual Basis,
Financial Reforms, Modernization of the Accounting System

The main objective of this paper is to empirically assess the effects of bank recapitalization on the profitability of Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria. The empirical analysis covered the period from 2005 to 20016, and taking a case study of fifteen banks quoted on the Nigerian stock Exchange. The data for the study were obtained from secondary sources including the annual reports and financial statements of all the Deposit Money banks quoted on the Nigerian stock Exchange. The study adopts causal research design which uses historical information to study the existing knowledge. The data were analyzed using pooled regression analysis through STATA window 14 package. The finding from the study shows that bank recapitalization has effects on returns on assets (profitability). The implication of this study is that the bank management have been able to effectively and efficiently utilize their assets to generate more profit for the banks. It therefore recommended that banks should improve...

ENEPRI Research Reports present the findings and conclusions of research undertaken in the context of research projects carried out by a consortium of ENEPRI member institutes. This report was produced by the ANCIEN project, which focuses on the future of long-term care for the elderly in Europe. Funding for the project is received from the European Commission under the 7th Framework Programme (FP7 Health-2007-3.2.2, Grant no. 223483). (See back page for more information.) The views expressed are attributable only to the authors in a personal capacity and not to any institution with which they are associated.

ENEPRI Research Reports present the findings and conclusions of research undertaken in the context of research projects carried out by a consortium of ENEPRI member institutes. This report was produced by the ANCIEN project, which focuses on the future of long-term care for the elderly in Europe. Funding for the project is received from the European Commission under the 7th Framework Programme (FP7 Health-2007-3.2.2, Grant no. 223483). (See back page for more information.) The views expressed are attributable only to the authors in a personal capacity and not to any institution with which they are associated.

School headship has become a major global educational issue as the government and stakeholders invest in education. In Kenya, the new education bill to align education with the new constitution will have significant demands on school principals. This is because the Constitution embraces financial management and procurement as important components and further highlights integrity and accountability in public finance. Leadership development in schools will require insight into improved and increased financial accountability. This paper enhances this development by emphasizing prudent intervention strategies with the spotlight on fraud in educational institutions and bringing to prominence the following questions: (1) What are the common fraudulent practices in schools, (2) How can principals of schools ensure integrity in finance conduct within government procedures, (3) What sort of training programme do principals regard as useful, (4) Do, and can training programmes bring about changes in attitudes
and behaviours of principals. This paper concludes with recommendations for (2), (3), and (4) that financial accountability must be a component of leadership dynamics, emotional and professional dimensions of headship, and contributing to school improvement.

Listed companies attract mutual and hedge funds, institutional and market traders due to the indirect advertising and endorsement in most major exchanges. For these companies to continue attracting investors, they have to provide financial reports to the public as well as shareholders. Through Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya, accounting and finance practitioners have promoted the implementation of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS). Despite the efforts, listed firms in the country continue to face challenges in financial reporting. This study thus sought to investigate the effects of ethical accounting practices on financial reporting of listed firms in Kenya. It specifically examined the effects of accounting objectivity, professional competence, integrity and confidentiality on listed firms in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design and all the 67 listed firms in Kenya were targeted. The study used census method to select all the listed companies. However, six (10%) listed firms were selected for a pilot study and the other 61 firms were studied in the actual study. Structured questionnaires were used in data collection. The reliability of the instruments was tested using Cronbach's Alpha test of internal consistency and found to be adequate at 0.7. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) where descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages and mean scores) and inferential statistics (Pearson Correlations and simple linear regressions) were employed. A multiple linear regression analysis was also employed with a view of explaining the influence of objectivity, professional competence, integrity and confidentiality on the financial reporting of the listed firms. The study found a coefficient of determination of 0.632 indicating that 63.2% of the variability in the financial reporting is attributable to the cumulative effect of confidentiality, professional competence, objectivity, and integrity. The achieved beta coefficients for objectivity, professional competence, integrity and confidentiality had beta coefficients of 0.264, 0.263, 0.299, and 0.228 respectively. The positive beta coefficients of all the variables indicated that increases in the respective independent variables were associated with increases in the dependent variable with the remainders of the variables kept constant. The study further found that there were statistically significant relationships between each of the accounting practices and financial reporting.

This study examines how International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) align with the cultural characteristics of adopting countries, emphasizing the professional judgment required for IFRS implementation. Building on the cultural frameworks of Hofstede and Gray, the study highlights the importance of professional autonomy and confidence in adopting IFRS. The research identifies six key factors influencing IFRS adoption using data from the World Values Surveys. The findings highlight the pivotal roles of professional autonomy, with social trust emerging as a crucial element influencing autonomy. The study also addresses the challenges posed by political interference and recommends clearer regulatory frameworks to mitigate risks associated with professional judgment. Additionally, the paper emphasizes the role of professional confidence, supported by trust in the government and the justice system, in facilitating IFRS adoption. The study suggests that developing countries can enhance their alignment with IFRS by fostering trust, minimizing political interference, and improving societal well-being.

Mostramos a la sociedad, y concretamente al colectivo que representamos, el trabajo realizado en los últimos siete meses. Como ya sucedió hace dos años en la provincia de Jaén, donde iniciamos esta serie de estudios, que son la razón y la misión del Grupo de trabajo. En esta ocasión las personas que hemos realizado este estudio, vemos la necesidad de mostrar a la sociedad,

Accounting ratios are believed to be of fundamental importance in financial analysis, and therefore are useful addition to financial reports. This paper examines the reporting of voluntary accounting ratio by Malaysian companies in corporate annual reports. Drawing on agency and signaling theories, this paper explores whether associations exist between company performance and voluntary disclosure of accounting ratios. In particular, associations are tested between the extent of ratio disclosure and company performance (namely profitability, liquidity, leverage, and company efficiency), size and industry. Six hypotheses are tested using data collected from 2003 annual reports of 100 Malaysian listed companies. This paper provides evidence that the extent of voluntary ratio disclosure is low; and size, industry as well as liquidity significantly influence the reporting of ratios in corporate annual reports. The implications of these findings are discussed.

The government has conducted research to determine the variables influencing how well taxes are collected and administered. The value of tax collection depends on several variables, including the state of the economy, the public's support for the government's priorities, and the willingness of taxpayers. Effective taxation necessitates an effective tax system for collection. The right collecting mechanism is necessary for the provision of necessities like roads, schools, health facilities, and the like. The purpose of the article was to investigate the variables influencing Wolkite Town's category C taxpayers' tax-collecting efficiency. The goal of the study was to investigate the dynamics influencing the tax collection system's efficacy variables including tax compliance, tax awareness, individual income, tax avoidance, and evasion. Multiple regression models and a primary source of data were employed in the investigation. The data was analysed and presented using SPSS tools and descriptive statistics. According to the research paper's findings, tax awareness exhibits a negative and insignificant impact on the regression results, tax compliance is positive and significant, individual income has a significant and positive sign, and tax evasion and avoidance have a positive and insignificant impact on the effectiveness of tax collection. On the other hand, individual income and income tax compliance have a big influence.
Keywords- Category „C‟, Ethiopia, Gurage Zone, Municipality, Tax assortment
JEL Classification: H20, H2

This work was carried out in collaboration between all authors. Author UJN designed the study, performed the statistical analysis, wrote the protocol, wrote the manuscript and managed the analyses of the study. Authors CE and MFCA managed the literature searches, literature review writing and contributed to analyses of the study. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

The financial literacy expected of board members relates to their duties and responsibilities as company directors and could be regarded as a core competence of an effective corporate director. Financial considerations and practices sometimes favour a continuation of existing activities as their costs are known, while those of possible alternatives may appear uncertain and hence seem riskier in comparison. Past accounting practices and the accounting profession bear a heavy responsibility for the damage that has been done to the environment and eco-systems. They have failed to fully account for negative externalities of corporate operations. For too long the financial skills sought in prospective directors and on boards have often been dominated by those concerned with the scrutiny of past performance and the treatment and reporting of past income and expenditure. In comparison, less attention has been focused on forward looking aspects of accounting and finance roles. While at a junior level technical skills may be a more significant financial literacy expectation, at board level the ability to explain, justify and communicate financial options, decisions, prospects and consequences might be sought. On their own, financial literacy and acumen are rarely sufficient. Judgement is invariably also required when responding to what the numbers may reveal and/or the ratios might suggest. Directors also need to be business savvy.

The current study investigates the quality of corporate reporting practices of the listed companies in Bangladesh. It measure quality through the quality of mandatory reporting, the quality of voluntary reporting and the timeliness of reporting by using panel data from 2004 to 2010. The final sample consists of 123 companies with 861 firm year observations listed in the Dhaka Stock Exchange, Bangladesh. In order to measure the mandatory reporting quality the current study determines the extent as well as the determinants of corporate mandatory disclosure in total and its categories. This study uses seven self constructed checklists (items ranging from 148 to 179) to measure the extent of mandatory reporting. The study presents average mandatory reporting at 76.42%. These results also indicate that mandatory reporting has significant positive association with firm size, firm profitability (ROA), and multinational parents, while it has significant negative association with ownerships....

This study investigated the relationship between financial leverage and financial performance of fIrms in Nigeria: Evidence from the oil and gas and agriculture sectors. The specific aims of the study are to; analyse the effect of debt to asset ratio on financial performance of manufacturing companies; examine the effect of interest coverage ratio on financial performance of manufacturing companies; and establish the effect of debt-equity ratio on financial performance of manufacturing companies. This study adopted a multistage sample technique, and a simple random technique was employed to choose the oil and gas sector and agriculture sectors, while purposive sampling was employed to select 10 firms from the two sectors. The study employed descriptive and inferential analysis. The study made use of panel secondary data, which were gathered from the financial reports of the selected firms for the period of 10 years spanning from 2013 to 2022. Data were analysed with the use of correlation analysis and panel regression estimation procedures. The Hausman test was conducted, and the result found that the fixed effect estimation technique was the most appropriate and consistent for the study. The result of the fixed estimation technique then revealed a regression coefficient of DER of 0.3237 and a t-statistical value of 1.4375 at a p value of 0.0057 (p > 0.05). This indicates that the debt-to-equity ratio has a significant effect on the financial performance of firms in Nigeria. The study further revealed the regression coefficient of ICR of-0.1397 and a t-statistical value of 2.8473 at a p value of 0.0730 (p > 0.05). The study also showed that the regression coefficient of DAR of 0.1027 and a tstatistical value of 3.1283 at a p value of 0.0000 (p < 0.05) indicate that the relationship between DAR and ROI was positive and significant. The study concluded that the debt-to-equity ratio and

This study investigated the relationship between financial leverage and financial performance of fIrms in Nigeria: Evidence from the oil and gas and agriculture sectors. The specific aims of the study are to; analyse the effect of debt to asset ratio on financial performance of manufacturing companies; examine the effect of interest coverage ratio on financial performance of manufacturing companies; and establish the effect of debt-equity ratio on financial performance of manufacturing companies. This study adopted a multistage sample technique, and a simple random technique was employed to choose the oil and gas sector and agriculture sectors, while purposive sampling was employed to select 10 firms from the two sectors. The study employed descriptive and inferential analysis. The study made use of panel secondary data, which were gathered from the financial reports of the selected firms for the period of 10 years spanning from 2013 to 2022. Data were analysed with the use of correlation analysis and panel regression estimation procedures. The Hausman test was conducted, and the result found that the fixed effect estimation technique was the most appropriate and consistent for the study. The result of the fixed estimation technique then revealed a regression coefficient of DER of 0.3237 and a t-statistical value of 1.4375 at a p value of 0.0057 (p > 0.05). This indicates that the debt-to-equity ratio has a significant effect on the financial performance of firms in Nigeria. The study further revealed the regression coefficient of ICR of-0.1397 and a t-statistical value of 2.8473 at a p value of 0.0730 (p > 0.05). The study also showed that the regression coefficient of DAR of 0.1027 and a tstatistical value of 3.1283 at a p value of 0.0000 (p < 0.05) indicate that the relationship between DAR and ROI was positive and significant. The study concluded that the debt-to-equity ratio and debt-to-assets ratio have a significant effect on the financial performance of firms in Nigeria, while the interest coverage ratio has a negative influence on the ROI of the selected firms. Hence, this study recommended among others that manufacturing firms should take on the strategy of reducing their debt and increasing their equity so as to maintain a good debt-to-equity ratio. The study also recommends that firms in Nigeria should always improve their interest coverage ratio by increasing earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) and reducing finance costs and even interest expenses so as to maintain a higher interest coverage ratio.

This study examines the impact of earnings management on the financial performance of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. Data was extracted from the annual report and accounts of 5 sampled banks for the period 2011-2015. Loan loss provision was used as a proxy for earnings management while return on assets (ROA) was used as proxy for banks performance. The study employed linear regression of pooled ordinary lease square for data analysis. Findings from the study revealed that earnings management exist in the Nigerian Money Deposit Banks. However, the study could not establish any statistical significant impact of earnings management on ROA. It is therefore, recommended that even though the relationship between the variables are not significant, proper and adequate measures should be put in place for the evaluation, examination and scrutinization of financial statement of DMBs.

This paper assesses the effect of company income tax on the financial performance of listed consumer goods companies in Nigeria from 2006-2016. Data for the study was collected from the annual reports and accounts of the companies and regression analysis was used as a technique for data analysis. The study finds that there is an insignificant negative relationship between corporate tax and financial performance using return on assets as a measure. Age and risk however exhibits a positive but not significant relationship with ROA. Size on the other hand shows a positive and significant relationship with performance confirming prior expectations. The study recommends that to improve the financial performance of listed Nigerian consumer goods, services of tax experts are needed to engage in legal tax planning like transfer pricing or structuring intra-company debt in order to reduce the net tax payment. By doing so, the net income after tax will increase which in turn increases financi...

The study modifies Wilson’s (1997) credit risk model to reveal the relationships between a set of macroeconomic variables and liquidity risk in Nigeria from 1981 to 2016 using time series data sourced from CBN Statistic bulletin. The study found that that financial deepening (measured as ratio of money supply to gross domestic product), unemployment and economic growth rate are most important variables that influence the liquidity position of banking sector in Nigeria. The study concluded that with or without the advent of global financial crisis, the Nigerian banking sector liquidity position is influenced by interest rate, inflation rate and unemployment rate. Thus, we recommend that the CBN should maintain policy consistency on the money market and ensure that interest rate is determined effectively.

Risk mitigation and fraud prevention in the present times has more focus on digital metadata, wherein forensic accountants are required to make use of robust IT techniques and tools. Data Analytics has got huge implications for forensic accounting. With the ever-increasing electronic element of frauds in the present age of digitalization, and complexity of financial transactions and instruments, the challenges are growing multifold for the forensic accounting profession. The use of data analytics techniques, which enables the processing of large data in almost no time, simplify the task of forensic accountant to a large extent. It enables the identification of patterns and anomalies with the use of machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, data mining and similar other statistical techniques. Beneish M-score and the Altman Z-score models are proven effective forensic accounting tools in fraud detection and insolvency prediction. This study has been undertaken to test the effectiveness and efficiency of these forensic tools in fraud detection and insolvency prediction with the case study of Bhushan Steel Ltd. Based upon the findings of the study, it is suggested that these models should be integrated with the data analytics, as these are highly effective and efficient in detection of financial statements frauds and this integration would equip the naïve investor in selection of financially sound company(s) to invest in. Data analytics is thus indispensable in the field of forensic accounting in the present era. Since, there is increased funding by many international funding agencies including the World Bank for empowering the forensic accountants and increasing awareness towards this profession, especially in developing countries; it can be hoped that the integration of data analytics with forensic accounting would gain momentum soon.

The major issue with the financial statement is earnings management (EM). The problem has a long history of documentation in accounting theory and practice. Researchers have employed a variety of models to identify earnings manipulation (EMN) in different economies. However, the Pakistani setting has been the focus of very few studies on this issue. The current study is an attempt to determine whether EMN exists in any of Pakistan's listed non-financial sectors. The study employed data collected from seven primary industries listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) between 2012 and 2019. These industries included cement, chemical, food, oil and gas, manufacturing, sugar, and textile. The study utilized Beneish's (1999) M-Score Model (MSM) to identify the existence of EM. According to the findings, 46% of the Pakistani non-financial companies listed on PSX were engaged in EM. Moreover, the sample chosen also appeared suitable for use with Beneish's MSM. The conclusion indicated that MSM can be successfully used by businesses to determine EMN. The results can be used by bankers and investors to identify the instances of EMN in financial statements. Moreover, the results can also be used to improve the caliber of financial reporting. Academics and professionals interested in predicting future profits should also take note of the outcomes.

This paper review the recent empirical research on IFRS and earnings quality among African studies and show mixed conclusions regarding the impact of IFRS on earnings quality and financial reporting quality in the region. Also, some discussions on factors that led to the growth in the earnings quality African literature over the last decade as well as some challenges in the recent literature, are provided. Also, the study makes several observations regarding IFRS and earnings quality research in Africa and suggests potential directions for future research. The need to (i) understand the recent direction of earnings quality research in Africa, (ii) understand the interaction between policy and earnings quality research, if any, in the African region, and (iii) the need to maintain high-level rigour in earnings quality research while ensuring greater interaction between policy and research, makes this study important. Given the paucity of research on earnings quality in developing countries, this study contributes to the broader earnings quality literature by providing a review of the African earnings quality literature; hence, conclusions based on empirical studies in this review are not intended to be generalised to developed countries but only to developing countries. Finally, while insights in this paper may be informative to the reader, the intended objective is to stimulate debates that would improve the outputs of earnings quality research and the overall quality of accounting disclosure among firms in Africa.

Financial statement fraud involves the manipulation of financial accounts by overstating assets, sales and profit, understating liabilities and expenses.One of the causes of financial statement fraud is due to threat of bankruptcy. This study explores the effectiveness of Altman Z-Score in predicting the occurrence of financial statement fraud.This study makes a comparison between non-fraudulent companies and fraudulent companies.The sample of non-fraudulent companies is selected from small market capitalization companies in Malaysia.Meanwhile, the sample for fraudulent companies is selected from companies which were charged by the Securities Commission for falsifying financial statements.The result shows that fraudulent companies display sign of bankruptcy before it is charged with falsification of financial statement fraud.

The marketization and privatization of nursing home care has grown in many countries along with expenditures. Using documents and government reports, this study explored three research questions about nursing homes in California, Ontario, England, and Norway. What were: (1) the contextual and privatization differences; (2) payment methods and trends in revenues and expenditures for direct care, administration, and profits; and (3) the financial reporting and accountability systems? The findings showed nursing homes were highly privatized in all locations except Norway.

This research examines the influence of tax knowledge and tax complexity on tax compliance among selected Small and Medium Enterprises in Tanzania. A cross-sectional research design was utilized, and quantitative data were collected through questionnaires from 150 randomly selected SMEs located in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Arusha regions. The analysis employed the Ordinary Logit regression method, with respondents' age, gender, and education serving as control variables. The findings indicate a positive and statistically significant impact of tax knowledge and the taxpayer's age on tax compliance. Conversely, tax complexity was found to have a negative and significant relationship with tax compliance. This highlights the importance of taxpayers' comprehension of taxation and demographic factors, particularly age, in fostering tax compliance. The study recommends that policymakers formulate simplified tax laws and regulations to reduce complexity. This measure aims to promote tax compliance and enhance government revenue, which is crucial for funding public services and development initiatives in Tanzania.