Cfap 6 Audit Procedures Fin Reporting
Cfap 6 Audit Procedures Fin Reporting
Cfap 6 Audit Procedures Fin Reporting
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
Risks ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 5
Audit procedures for contracts in which performance obligations are satisfied over time
('construction contracts') .................................................................................................................................................... 12
Risk ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 15
IAS 10 and 37 – Contingencies and Commitments with Events after reporting period .......................16
Auditing leases......................................................................................................................................................................... 19
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
Audit risks................................................................................................................................................................................... 38
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 5 – NON-CURRENT ASSETS HELD FOR SALE AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
When the ISA talks about obtaining an understanding of management's methods, the following
may be relevant:
Sales, transfers and charges between segments, elimination of inter-segment amounts
Comparisons with budgets and other expected results; for example, operating profits as a
percentage of sales
Allocations of assets and costs
Consistency with prior periods, and the adequacy of the disclosures with respect to
inconsistencies
It is important to stress that auditors only have a responsibility in relation to the financial
statements taken as a whole. Auditors are not required to express an opinion on the segment
information presented on a standalone basis.
AUDIT PROCEDURES
To ensure assets meet the criteria include the following:
Inquiries/written representations from management concerning intentions
Reviewing minutes of management for evidence of firm plan to sell
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 5 – NON-CURRENT ASSETS HELD FOR SALE AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Ascertaining whether appropriate estate agent appointed (by reviewing contract between the
parties)
Reviewing sale particulars
Comparison of sale price per sale particulars to fair value
Asking estate agent of likelihood of completion within a year
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 24 – RELATED PARTIES DISCLOSURES
ISA 550 is applicable whether or not IAS 24, Related Party Disclosures is a requirement of the reporting
framework for the entity concerned.
AUDITOR RESPONSIBILITIES
The auditor has a responsibility to perform audit procedures to identify, assess and respond to the
risks of material misstatement arising from the entity's failure to appropriately account for or
disclose related party relationships, transactions or balances.
RISKS
The following audit risks may arise from a failure to identify a related party.
Failure of the financial statements to comply with IAS 24.
There may be a misstatement in the financial statements – transactions may be on a non-arm’s
length basis and thus may result in assets, liabilities, profit or loss being overstated or
understated. For example, special tax rates may apply to profits reported on sales to related
parties.
The reliance on a source of audit evidence may be misjudged. An auditor may rely on what is
perceived to be third-party evidence when in fact it is from a related party. More generally,
reliance on management assurances may be affected if the auditor were made aware of non-
disclosure of a related party.
The motivations of related parties may be outside normal business motivations and thus may
be misunderstood by the auditor if there is non-disclosure. In the extreme, this may amount
to fraud.
The inherent risk linked to related party transactions (RPT) can be high, especially where
management is unaware of the existence of all the related party relationships or transactions, or
where there is an opportunity for collusion, concealment or manipulation by management. There is
an increased risk that the auditor may fail to detect a RPT, where:
there has been no charge made for a RPT (ie, a zero cost transaction);
disclosure would be sensitive for directors or have adverse consequences for the company;
the company has no formal system for detecting RPTs;
RPTs are with a party that the auditor could not reasonably expect to know is a related party;
RPTs from an earlier period have remained as an unsettled balance;
management have concealed, or failed to disclose fully, related parties or transactions with
such parties; and
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 24 – RELATED PARTIES DISCLOSURES
the corporate structure is complex.
Point to note: The term 'arm's length' continues to be used in the context of IAS 24 even though
it has been removed from the definition of fair value in IFRS 13.
(b) Make inquiries of management about the identities of related parties and any RPTs. This
includes:
(1) the identity of related parties, including changes from prior period;
(2) the nature of the relationships between the entity and its related parties;
(3) whether any transactions occurred between the parties and, if so;
(4) what controls the entity has to identify, account for and disclose related party relationships
and transactions;
(5) what controls the entity has to authorize and approve significant transactions and
arrangements with related parties; and
(6) what controls the entity has to authorize and approve significant transactions and
arrangements outside the normal course of business.
(c) Obtain an understanding of controls established to identify, account for and disclose RPTs and
to authorize and approve significant transactions with related parties / outside the normal
course of business.
Where controls are ineffective or non-existent, the auditor may be unable to obtain sufficient,
appropriate audit evidence and will need to consider the impact of this on the audit opinion.
The auditor is also required to be alert for related party information when reviewing records or
documents. In particular, the auditor must inspect bank and legal confirmations and minutes of
meetings of the shareholders and those charged with governance. Where these procedures reveal
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 24 – RELATED PARTIES DISCLOSURES
significant transactions outside the entity's normal course of business, the auditor must inquire of
management about the nature of these transactions and whether a related party could be involved.
Where the risk of misstatement may be due to fraud additional procedures may apply:
Inquiries of and discussion with management and those charged with governance
Inquiries of the related party
Inspection of significant contracts with the related party
Background research eg, internet
Review of employee whistleblowing reports
Identified significant related party transactions outside the entity's normal course of business
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 24 – RELATED PARTIES DISCLOSURES
Where significant related party transactions outside the entity's normal course of business are
identified, the auditor must do the following:
Inspect the underlying contracts and agreements and evaluate whether:
– the business rationale or lack of suggests fraud;
– the terms are consistent with the management's explanations; and
– the transaction has been appropriately accounted for and disclosed.
Obtain audit evidence that transactions have been appropriately authorized and approved
Management assertions
If management has made assertions in the financial statements to the effect that a related party
transaction was conducted on terms equivalent to those prevailing in an arm's length transaction,
the auditor must obtain evidence to support this. The nature of the evidence obtained will depend
on the support management has obtained to substantiate their claim but may involve:
considering the appropriateness of management's process for supporting the assertion;
verifying the source of internal and external data supporting the assertion and testing it for
accuracy, completeness and relevance; and
evaluating the reasonableness of any significant assumptions on which the assertion is based
An entity may require its management and those charged with governance to sign individual
declarations in relation to related party matters. It may be helpful if any such declarations are
addressed jointly to a designated official of the entity and also to the auditor
2.5 Documentation
The auditor is required to include in the audit documentation to identity of related parties and the
nature of related party relationships.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 24 – RELATED PARTIES DISCLOSURES
ISA 550 points out that the existence of the following relationships may indicate the presence of
control or significant influence:
(a) Direct or indirect equity holdings or other financial interests in the entity
(b) The entity's holdings of direct or indirect equity or other financial interests in other entities
(c) Being part of those charged with governance or key management (that is, those members of
management who have the authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling
the activities of the entity)
(d) Being a close family member of any person referred to in subparagraph (c)
(e) Having a significant business relationship with any person referred to in subparagraph (c)
The related parties described in subparagraph (c) above, and by extension those described in (d)
and (e), are often the hardest to identify. While entities related through equity interest should be
fairly clearly documented, auditors frequently struggle to identify related party transactions
established through connected persons.
The following risk assessment procedures are relevant when testing for the existence of undisclosed
related parties:
Enquire of management and the directors as to whether transactions have taken place with
related parties that are required to be disclosed by the disclosure requirements that are
applicable to the entity
Review prior year working papers for names of known related parties
Review minutes of meetings of shareholders and directors and other relevant statutory records,
such as the register of directors' interests
Review accounting records for large or unusual transactions or balances, in particular
transactions recognised at or near the end of the financial period
Review confirmations of loans receivable and payable and confirmations from banks. Such
a review may indicate the relationship, if any, of guarantors to the entity
Review investment transactions, for example purchase or sale of an interest in a joint venture
or other entity
Enquire as to the names of all pension and other trusts established for the benefit of
employees and the names of their management and trustees
Enquire as to the affiliation of directors and officers with other entities
Review the register of interests in shares to determine the names of principal shareholders
Enquire of other auditors currently involved in the audit, or predecessor auditors, as to their
knowledge of additional related parties
Review the entity's tax returns, returns made under statute and other information supplied
to regulatory agencies for evidence of the existence of related parties
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 24 – RELATED PARTIES DISCLOSURES
Review invoices and correspondence from lawyers for indications of the existence of related
parties or related party transactions.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 15 – REVENUE FORM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
Step 5: Recognize For performance obligations satisfied at a point in time (such as retail
revenue as or when sales) confirm the occurrence of the event required (such as the sale itself)
each performance by reference to supporting documentation.
obligation is satisfied.
Other tests For deferred consideration, confirm the proportion split between the value
of the goods on the date of sale and the financing income by reference to
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 15 – REVENUE FORM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
the contract and testing the reasonableness of the entity's calculations for
recognizing revenue (such as interest rates for estimating fair value)
Bill and hold Consider the existence of such arrangements and if present, review the
arrangements conditions required by IFRS 15 have been met:
Confirm that the customer owns the products stored by the seller by
reference to the contract terms, and obtain confirmation from the customer
that they are happy for the seller to hold them.
Inspect the agreement between the seller and customer to confirm the
products can be accessed at any time and not transferred to another
customer.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 15 – REVENUE FORM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
Confirm the amounts of contract work certified as complete (outputs) at the year end by
reference to relevant documentation (such as surveyors' reports or client estimates).
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 40 – INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 40 – INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
For fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level
3), the effect of the measurements on profit or loss and other
comprehensive income for the period
Note: IAS 40 states that fair value should be measured in accordance with IFRS 13.
RISK
The valuation process is inherently judgmental, which is why we consider this to be a risk of material
misstatement. In particular, changes in assumptions such as the capitalization rates, forecast rent
per square foot, forecast occupancy levels and, in the case of investment property under
construction, cost to complete can lead to significant movements in the value of the property, as
can changes in the underlying market conditions.
(b) We tested the integrity of the information provided by management to the valuer by agreeing
key inputs such as actual occupancy and net rent per square foot to underlying records and
source evidence;
(c) We modelled eight years of valuations and key valuation inputs to the investment property
portfolio, to understand the historical trends of key inputs and compared these against the key
forecast assumptions included in the property valuation;
(d) We met with the valuer. We assessed their independence, the scope of the work they were
requested to perform by management, and the valuation methodology applied. For each
property we identified as having significant or unusual valuation movements (compared to
market data or previous periods), we challenged the valuer on the key assumptions applied.
Our challenge was informed by input from our internal valuation specialists, utilizing their
knowledge and expertise in the market at a macro level and the relevant geographies to
challenge the key judgmental inputs noted adjacent. We also researched comparable
transactions and understood trends in analogous industries. We understood the rationale for
outlying valuations or movements and obtained corroborative evidence. We also assessed the
valuations for a sample of other properties; and
(e) We visited a sample of properties to assess the condition of the buildings.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 10 AND 37 – CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS WITH EVETS AFTER REPORTING PERIOD
The audit procedures that should be carried out on provisions and contingent assets and liabilities
are as follows:
Obtain details of all provisions which have been included in the accounts and all contingencies
that have been disclosed.
Obtain a detailed analysis of all provisions showing opening balances, movements and closing
balances.
Determine for each material provision whether the company has a present obligation as a
result of past events by:
reviewing of correspondence relating to the item; and
discussing with the directors. Have they created a valid expectation in other parties that they
will discharge the obligation?
Determine for each material provision whether it is probable that a transfer of economic
benefits will be required to settle the obligation by:
checking whether any payments have been made after the end of the reporting period in
respect of the item;
reviewing correspondences with solicitors, banks, customers, insurance company and
suppliers both pre and post year end;
sending a letter to the solicitor to obtain their views (where relevant);
discussing the position of similar past provisions with the directors. Were these provisions
eventually settled; and
considering the likelihood of reimbursement.
Recalculate all provisions made.
Compare the amount provided with any post year end payments and with any amount paid in
the past for similar items.
In the event that it is not possible to estimate the amount of the provision, check that this
contingent liability is disclosed in the accounts.
Consider the nature of the client's business. Would you expect to see any other provisions, for
example warranties?
Consider whether disclosures of provisions, contingent liabilities and contingent assets are
correct and sufficient.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 10 AND 37 – CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS WITH EVETS AFTER REPORTING PERIOD
The auditor shall design and perform procedures in order to identify any litigation and claims
involving the entity which may give rise to a risk of material misstatement. (ISA 501.9)
When litigation or claims have been identified or when the auditor believes they may exist, the
auditor must seek direct communication with the entity's lawyers.
(ISA 501.10)
This will help to obtain sufficient, appropriate audit evidence as to whether potential material
litigation and claims are known and management's estimates of the financial implications, including
costs, are reliable.
The auditors must consider these matters up to the date of their report and so a further, updating
letter may be necessary.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 10 AND 37 – CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS WITH EVETS AFTER REPORTING PERIOD
A meeting between the auditors and the lawyer may be required, for example where a complex
matter arises, or where there is a disagreement between management and the lawyer. Such
meetings should take place only with the permission of management, and preferably with a
management representative present.
If management refuses to give the auditor permission to communicate with the entity's lawyers or
if the lawyer refuses to respond as required and the auditor can find no alternative sufficient
evidence, this would mean that the auditor is unable to obtain sufficient, appropriate evidence and
should ordinarily lead to a qualified opinion or a disclaimer of opinion.
(ISA 501.11)
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 16 – LEASES
IFRS 16 – LEASES
AUDITING LEASES
In auditing leases recognized at fair value, the auditor must evaluate whether the fair value is
appropriate.
The table below summarises the areas of audit focus when auditing leases in accordance with IAS
17, and provides some examples of audit evidence required.
Issue Evidence
Ascertaining that the leases Obtain schedules of finance leases and operating leases, including any
recorded in the financial leases that existed at the end of the prior period, and any new leases.
statements are complete.
Determine that any leased property is still in use.
Obtain assurance about the completeness of the schedule by making
inquiries of informed management, and consider any evidence of
additional leases by examining other documents such as board meeting
minutes, significant contracts and property additions.
The classification of the Review lease agreements for indicators that the risks and rewards of
leases reflects the substance ownership have been transferred to the entity, such as:
of the transaction. responsibility for repairs and maintenance;
transfer of legal title at the end of the lease term;
the lease is for most of the assets' useful life; and
the present value of the minimum lease payments is substantially all of
the assets' fair value.
Ascertaining that the Select a sample of entries in the lease expense account, and verify that
operating lease expenses they relate to operating leases.
have been correctly
recorded in profit or loss Recalculate operating lease expenses, on a straight-line basis over the
lease term.
Ascertaining that the Recalculate the finance charges charged against profit and loss.
finance leases have been Agree interest rates used in calculations to lease agreements.
correctly recorded in the Agree the calculation of the leased assets' fair value to external evidence,
statements of financial such as market prices or surveyors' reports.
position and profit or loss Recalculate the depreciation charges applied to non-current assets
Review the assumptions made in respect of the useful life of each finance
lease asset, and agree the useful life/lease term to the depreciation
workings to ensure that the assets are depreciated over an appropriate
period.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 16 – LEASES
Review rentals paid during the year to verify that rental payments are
split between the finance charge element and the repayment of capital
in accordance with IAS 17.
Ascertaining that the lease Review the disclosures in the financial statements to determine whether
liability has been disclosed the disclosures are consistent and complete.
in the financial statements
in accordance with IFRSs
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Generally speaking, the trend towards fair value accounting will increase audit work required, not
only because determining fair values is more difficult, but also because fair values fluctuate in a
way that historical costs do not, and will need vouching each audit period. Fair value will, for the
same reasons, increase audit risk.
The ISA treats fair values as a type of accounting estimate and therefore the requirements of the
ISA apply to fair values as they would to any other type of accounting estimate.
RISK ASSESSMENT
Management is responsible for establishing the process for determining fair values. This process
will vary considerably from organization to organization. Some companies will habitually value items
at historical cost where possible, and may have poor processes for determining fair values if
required. Others may have complex systems for determining fair value if they have a large number
of assets and liabilities which they account for at fair value, particularly where a high degree of
estimation is involved.
Not all financial statement items requiring measurement at fair value involve estimation uncertainty.
In accordance with IFRS 13, entities should maximize the use of relevant observable inputs. For
example, if using a Level 1 input (eg, the unadjusted quoted price in an active market of equity
shares in a listed company), there is no estimation uncertainty.
For others, however, there may be moderate (eg, Level 2 inputs) or relatively high estimation
uncertainty (eg, Level 3 inputs), particularly where they are based on significant assumptions, for
example:
Fair value estimates for derivative financial instruments not publicly traded
Fair value estimates for which a highly specialized entity-developed model is used or for which
there are assumptions or inputs that cannot be observed in the marketplace.
ISA 540 requires the auditor to assess the entity's process for determining fair value measurements
and disclosures and the related control activities and to assess the risks of material misstatement.
In practical terms, this would include considering the following:
The valuation techniques adopted (ie, Level 1, 2 or 3)
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The valuation approach used in making the accounting estimate (ie, income approach, market
approach, cost approach)
The market in which the transaction is assumed to have taken place (ie, principal market or most
advantageous market)
The relevant control activities over the process (eg, controls over data and the segregation of
duties between those committing the entity to the underlying transaction and those responsible
for undertaking the valuations)
The expertise and experience of those persons determining the fair value measurements
The role that information technology has in the process
The types of accounts or transactions requiring fair value measurements or disclosures (eg,
whether the accounts arise from routine/recurring transactions or non-routine/unusual
transactions)
The significant management assumptions used (particularly where Level 3 unobservable inputs
are used)
Whether there has been or ought to have been a change from the prior period in the methods
for making the accounting estimates, and, if so, why (a change in valuation technique is
considered to be a change in accounting estimate in accordance with IAS 8.)
Whether, and if so how, management has assessed the effect of estimation uncertainty
The extent to which the process relies on a service organization.
The extent to which the entity uses the work of experts in determining fair value measurements
and disclosures
Documentation supporting management's assumptions
The methods used to develop and apply management assumptions and to monitor changes in
those assumptions
The integrity of change controls and security procedures for valuation models and relevant
information systems, including approval processes
Controls over the consistency, timeliness and reliability of the data used in valuation models.
In some cases, the financial reporting framework may prescribe the method of measurement – for
example, a particular model that is to be used in measuring a fair value estimate. In many cases,
however, the method is not specified, or there may be a number of alternative methods available.
The auditor may consider the following:
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
How management considered the nature of the asset or liability when selecting a particular
method
Whether the entity operates in a particular business, industry or environment in which there are
methods commonly used to make the particular type of estimate.
The nature, timing and extent of further audit procedures will depend heavily on the complexity of
the fair value measurement. For example, the fair value measurement of assets that are sold in
open, active markets which provide readily available and reliable information on the prices at which
exchanges actually occur should be relatively straightforward eg, published price quotations for
marketable securities.
Alternatively, a specific asset may not have an active market or may possess characteristics that
make it necessary for management to estimate its fair value (eg, an investment property or a
complex derivative financial instrument). The estimation of fair value may be achieved through the
use of a valuation model (for example, a model premised on projections and discounting of future
cash flows, or an option pricing model) or through the help of an expert such as an independent
expert (e.g., to value property, brands or other specialist assets).
Complex fair value measurements, particularly Level 3 unobservable inputs, are normally
characterized by greater uncertainty regarding the reliability of the measurement process. This
greater uncertainty may be the result of the following:
The length of the forecast period.
The number of significant and complex assumptions associated with the process
A higher degree of subjectivity associated with the assumptions and factors used in the process
A higher degree of uncertainty associated with the future occurrence or outcome of events
underlying the assumptions used When obtaining audit evidence, the auditor evaluates whether
the following are true:
The assumptions used by management are reasonable.
The fair value was measured using an appropriate model (eg, the model prescribed in IFRS 13,
if applicable).
Management used relevant information that was reasonably available at the time.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The auditor should evaluate whether the disclosures about fair values made by the entity are in
accordance with its financial reporting framework (eg, IFRS 13 disclosure requirements).
The auditor should obtain written representations from management.
Where an accounting estimate has high estimation uncertainty the auditor may conclude that
this must be communicated as a KAM in accordance with ISA 701.
(ISA 540.A114).
Business risk and the risk of material misstatement also increase when management inappropriately
hedge risk or speculate.
In particular the entity may be exposed to the following types of risk:
(a) Credit risk (the risk that one party will cause a financial loss to another party by failing to
discharge an obligation)
(b) Market risk (the risk that the fair value or future cash flow of a financial instrument will fluctuate
because of changes in market prices eg, currency risk, interest rate risk, commodity and equity
price risk)
(c) Liquidity risk (includes the risk of not being able to buy or sell a financial instrument at an
appropriate price in a timely manner due to a lack of marketability for that financial instrument)
(d) Operational risk (related to the specific processing required for financial instruments)
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The risk of fraud may also be increased where an employee in a position to perpetrate a financial
fraud understands both the financial instruments and the process for accounting for them, but
management and those charged with governance have a lesser degree of understanding.
The Appendix to IAPN 1000 provides examples of controls that may exist in an entity that deals
with a high volume of financial instrument transactions. These include authorization, segregation of
duties (particularly of those executing the transaction (dealing) and those initiating cash payments
and receipts (settlements)) and reconciliations of the entity's records to external banks' and
custodians' records.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
transaction would take place between market participants at the measurement date under current
market conditions; that is, it is not the transaction price for a forced liquidation or distressed sale.
In meeting this objective all relevant market information is taken into account. It also explains that
fair value measurement may arise at both the initial recording of transactions and later when there
are changes in value. Changes in fair value measurement may be treated differently depending on
the reporting framework. The IAPN then explores features of different financial reporting
frameworks, including the following:
The fair value hierarchy (as adopted by IFRS 13)
The effects of inactive markets
Management's valuation processes
The use of models, third-party pricing sources and experts (entities often make use of a third
party to obtain fair value information, particularly when expertise or data are required that
management does not possess).
Professional scepticism
The need for professional scepticism increases with the complexity of the financial instruments, for
example with regard to the following:
Evaluating whether sufficient appropriate audit evidence has been obtained (which can be
particularly challenging when models are used or in determining if markets are inactive)
Evaluating management's judgements and potential for management bias in applying the
applicable financial reporting framework (eg, choice of valuation techniques, use of assumptions
in valuation techniques)
Drawing conclusions based on the audit evidence obtained (for example assessing the
reasonableness of valuations prepared by management's experts)
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Planning considerations
The auditor's focus in planning is particularly on the following:
Understanding the accounting and disclosure requirements ISA 540 requires the auditor to obtain
an understanding of the requirements of the applicable financial reporting framework relevant
to accounting estimates.
Understanding the complex financial instruments This helps the auditor to identify whether:
– important aspects of a transaction are missing or inaccurately recorded;
– a valuation appears appropriate;
– the risks inherent in them are fully understood and managed by the entity; or
– the financial instruments are appropriately classified into current and non-current assets and
liabilities.
Understanding management's process for identifying and accounting for embedded derivatives
will help the auditor to understand the risks to which the entity is exposed.
Determining whether specialized skills and knowledge are needed in the audit
The engagement partner must be satisfied that the engagement team and any auditor's experts
collectively have the appropriate competence and capabilities.
Understanding and evaluating the system of internal control in the light of the entity's financial
instrument transactions and the information systems that fall within the scope of the audit.
This understanding must be obtained in accordance with ISA 315. This understanding enables
the auditor to identify and assess the risks of material misstatement at the financial statement
and assertions levels, providing a basis for designing and implementing responses to the
assessed risks of material misstatement.
Understanding the nature, role and activities of the internal audit function Areas where the work
of the internal audit function may be particularly relevant are as follows:
– Developing a general overview of the extent of use of financial instruments.
– Evaluating the appropriateness of policies and procedures and management's compliance
with them
– Evaluating the operating effectiveness of financial instrument control activities
– Evaluating systems relevant to financial instrument activities
– Assessing whether new risks relating to financial instruments are identified, assessed and
managed
Understanding management's process for valuing financial instruments, including whether
management has used an expert or a service organization Again this understanding is required
in accordance with ISA 540.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Assessing and responding to the risk of material misstatement (see below)
The assessment of risk will determine the appropriate audit approach in accordance with ISA 330,
The Auditor's Responses to Assessed Risks, including substantive procedures and tests of controls.
Where the entity is involved in a high level of trading and use of financial instruments, it is unlikely
that sufficient evidence will be obtained through substantive testing alone. Where there are relatively
few transactions of this nature a substantive approach may be more efficient. In reaching a decision
on the nature, timing and extent of testing of controls the auditor may consider factors such as:
the nature, frequency and volume of financial instrument transactions;
the strength of controls including design;
the importance of controls to the overall control objectives;
the monitoring of controls and identified deficiencies in control procedures;
the issues controls are intended to address;
frequency of performance of control activities;
level of precision the controls are intended to achieve;
evidence of performance of control activities; and
timing of key financial instrument transactions (eg, whether they are close to the period end).
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
In some cases 'dual-purpose' tests may be used ie, it may be efficient to perform a test of controls
and a test of details on the same transaction eg, testing whether a signed contract has been
maintained (test of controls) and whether the details of the financial instrument have been
appropriately captured in a summary sheet (test of details). Areas of significant judgement would
normally be tested close to, or at, the period end.
Procedures relating to completeness, accuracy, existence, occurrence and rights and obligations may
include the following:
Remaining alert during the audit when inspecting records or documents (eg, minutes of meetings
of those charged with governance, specific invoices and correspondence with the entity's
professional advisers)
External confirmation of bank accounts, trades and custodian statements
Reconciliation of external data with the entity's own records Reading individual contracts and
reviewing support documentation
Reviewing journal entries or the internal control over the recording of such entries to determine
if entries have been made by employees other than those authorized to do so
Testing controls eg, by reperforming controls.
Significant risk
The auditor's risk assessment may lead to the identification of one or more significant risks relating
to valuation. The following circumstances would be indicators that a significant risk may exist:
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
High measurement uncertainty
Lack of sufficient evidence to support management's valuation
Lack of management understanding of its financial instruments or expertise to value these
correctly
Lack of management understanding of the complex requirements of the applicable financial
reporting framework
The significance of valuation adjustments made to model outputs when the applicable reporting
framework requires or permits such adjustments.
Where significant risks have been identified the auditor is required to evaluate how management
has considered alternative assumptions or outcomes and why it has rejected them, or how
management has addressed estimation uncertainty in making the accounting estimate. The auditor
must also evaluate whether the significant assumptions used by management are reasonable. To
do this the auditor must exercise professional judgement.
The IAPN also considers audit considerations for valuation in three specific circumstances: when
management uses a third-party pricing source, when management estimates fair value using a
model and when a management's expert is used.
Possible approaches to gathering evidence regarding information from third-party pricing sources
may include the following:
For Level 1 inputs, comparing the information from third-party pricing sources with observable
market prices
Reviewing disclosures provided by third-party pricing sources about their controls and processes,
valuation techniques, inputs and assumptions
Testing the controls management has in place to assess the reliability of information from third-
party pricing sources
Performing procedures at the third-party pricing source to understand and test the controls and
processes, valuation techniques, inputs and assumptions used for asset classes or specific
financial instruments of interest
Evaluating whether the prices obtained from third-party pricing sources are reasonable in relation
to prices from other third-party pricing sources, the entity's estimate or the auditor's own
estimate
Evaluating the reasonableness of valuation techniques, assumptions and inputs
Developing a point estimate or a range for some financial instruments priced by the thirdparty
pricing source and evaluating whether the results are within a reasonable range of each other
Obtaining a service auditor's report that covers the controls over validation of the prices.
When management estimates fair value using a model IAPN 1000 states that testing the model can
be accomplished by two main approaches:
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
(1) The auditor can test management's model, by considering the appropriateness of the model
used by management, the reasonableness of the assumptions and data used, and the
mathematical accuracy.
(2) The auditor can develop their own estimate and then compare the auditor's valuation with that
of the entity.
When a management expert is used the requirements which must be applied are the basic
requirements of ISA 500 as discussed in Chapter 6. Procedures would include evaluating the
competence, capabilities and objectivity of the management's expert, obtaining an understanding
of their work and evaluating the appropriateness of that expert's work as audit evidence.
Section 1
Operational risk includes model risk (the risk that imperfections and subjectivity of valuation
models are not properly understood, accounted for or adjusted for) (PN23.18)
Complete and accurate recording of financial instruments is an essential core objective (PN23.24-
1)
When quoted prices are used as evidence of fair value, the source should be independent and
where possible more than one quote (PN23.44-1)
Where a price has been obtained from a pricing service and that price has been challenged,
when considering whether the corrected price is a suitable basis for valuation, consideration
should be given to how long the challenge process has taken and whether the underlying data
remains valid (PN23.56-1)
A key control over management's valuation process may be an independent price verification
function which forms part of internal control (PN23.62-1)
Section 2
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Although it is not part of the auditor's role to determine the amount of risk an entity should
take on, obtaining an understanding of the risk management process may identify risks of
material misstatement (PN23.70-1)
Assertions about valuation may be based on highly subjective assumptions, therefore evaluating
audit evidence in respect of these requires considerable judgment (PN23.71-2)
Determining materiality for financial instruments may be particularly difficult (PN23.73-1)
When deciding which audits other than those of listed entities require an engagement quality
control review, the existence of financial instruments may be a relevant factor (PN23.73-2)
When obtaining an understanding of the entity's financial instruments, the auditor will consider
the view of any correspondence with regulators in accordance with the FCA Code (PN23.76-2)
The involvement of experts or specialists may be needed (PN23.79)
The auditor may need to consider the control environment applicable to those responsible for
functions dealing with financial instruments (PN23.89-2)
Substantive procedures will include reviewing operational data such as reconciling differences
(PN23.104)
The auditor may use information included in a Prudent Valuation Return (prepared by UK banks
and other regulated entities in the financial sector) to understand the uncertainties associated
with the financial instruments used and disclosed by these entities (PN23.108-1)
Tests of valuation include: verifying the external prices used to value financial instruments,
confirming the validity of valuation models, and evaluating the overall results and reserving for
residual uncertainties (PN23.113-1)
The auditor must consider whether management has given proper consideration to the models
used (PN23.134-1)
When evaluating the amount of an adjustment that might be required, the auditor considers all
factors taken into account in the valuation process and uses experience and judgment (PN23.137-
1).
AUDITING DERIVATIVES
Auditing derivatives in the modern world
The key to using derivatives as part of an overall investment strategy is to have adequate internal
controls in place and trained personnel handling the investments. Derivatives, which have been
around for a very long time in one form or another, have been put to good use by transferring risk
from one party, the hedger, to another, the speculator. There are many factors in today's world
which can cause derivative investment strategies to go wrong. As we have seen, such factors can
include the following:
A lack of internal controls
A laissez-faire management
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 09, IFRS 07, IAS 32: FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Greed
Ineffective systems to identify and monitor risk
Inexperience
Each type of derivative will be different and non-standard derivatives will be unique. This poses
challenges for the auditor.
Generally, however, the auditor should seek to:
(a) understand the client's business in order to establish the real role played by, and the risks that
are inherent in, the derivatives activity;
(b) document the system. This would involve documenting various processes;
(c) identify the controls in each process in order to establish the risk passed to the client by
inadequate or missing controls; and, therefore, to establish the audit risk and thus the audit
work that needs to be performed;
(d) carry out the appropriate control and substantive audit procedures; and
(e) make conclusions and report on the outcome of the audit of derivatives.
Obviously, the exact nature of what is to be done is dependent on the circumstances of the client.
Ensuring that the information has been captured completely and accurately in each case is
important.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 19 – EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 19 – EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
compatible with those used elsewhere in the preparation of the
entity's financial statements; and
obtain written representations from directors confirming that
the assumptions are consistent with their knowledge of the
business.
Items charged to profit or Discuss with directors and actuaries the factors affecting current
loss (current service cost, past service cost (for example, a scheme closed to new entrants may
service cost, gains and losses see an increase year on year as a percentage of pay with the
on settlements and average age of the workforce increasing).
curtailments) Confirm that net interest cost has been based on the discount
rate determined by reference to market yields on high-quality
fixed-rate corporate bonds
Items recognized in other Check basis of updated assumptions used to calculate actuarial
comprehensive income gains/losses.
Check basis of calculation of return on plan assets ie, using
current fair values. Fair values must be measured in accordance
with IFRS 13
Contributions paid into plan Agree cash payments to cash book/bank statements.
(Retirement benefits paid out
are paid by the pension plan
itself so there is no cash entry
in the entity's books)
Where the results of auditors' work are inconsistent with the directors' and actuaries', additional
procedures, such as requesting directors to obtain evidence from another actuary, may help in
resolving the inconsistency.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IFRS 2 – SHARE-BASED PAYMENT
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 21 AND 29 – FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION AND HYPERINFLATION
HYPERINFLATION
AUDIT PROCEDURES
These would include the following:
Check that the balances of the subsidiary have been appropriately translated to the group
reporting currency:
– Assets and liabilities at the closing rate at the end of the reporting period.
– Income and expenditure at the rate ruling at the transaction date. An average would be a
suitable alternative provided there have been no significant fluctuations.
Confirm consistency of treatment of the translation of equity (closing rate or historical rate).
Check that the consolidation process has been performed correctly eg, elimination of intragroup
balances.
Check the basis of the calculation of the non-controlling interest.
Confirm that goodwill has been translated at the closing rate.
Check the disclosure of exchange differences as a separate component of equity.
Assess whether disclosure requirements of IAS 21 have been satisfied.
If the foreign operation is operating in a hyperinflationary economy confirm that the financial
statements have been adjusted under IAS 29, Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies
before they are translated and consolidated.
Involve a specialist tax audit team to review the calculation of tax balances against submitted
and draft tax returns.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 12 – INCOME TAXES
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
IAS 12 – INCOME TAXES
– estimates contained within the tax computation are based on reasonable assumptions; and
– all tax rates and allowances are based on applicable tax legislation.
Review details of tax payments made/refunds received in the period, and agree payments to the
cash and bank account.
Transfer pricing
Besides auditing current and deferred tax, transfer pricing is an important area over which sufficient
appropriate audit evidence must be sought. When the entity's transfer pricing policies are
challenged by the tax authorities, the effect on the company's current tax position over several years
is likely to be material.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
Acquisition
Acquisitions can take many forms. The type of acquisition (eg, hostile, friendly) and future
management of the subsidiary (fully integrated, autonomous) will also impact on risk.
Risk areas Key issues
Valuation of assets and liabilities These should be valued at fair value at the date of
acquisition in accordance with IFRS 13.
Valuation of consideration This should be at fair value and will include any
contingent consideration. Any deferred
consideration should be discounted.
Goodwill This must be calculated and accounted for in
accordance with IFRS 3.
Date of control The results of any subsidiary should only be
accounted for from the date of acquisition.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
Level of control or influence This will determine the nature of the investment and
its subsequent treatment in the group financial
statements eg, subsidiary, associate and should be
determined in accordance with IFRS 10/IAS 28 (IFRS
10 retains control as the key concept underlying the
parent/subsidiary relationship but has broadened
the definition and clarified the application).
Accounting policies/reporting periods Accounting policies and reporting periods must be
consistent across the group.
Consolidation adjustments The group must have systems which enable the
identification of intra-group balances and accounts
Adequacy of provisions in the target While the acquirer is likely to know its plans, other
company provisions may be necessary within the acquired
entity.
If such provisions are currently unrecognized and
have never been recorded (eg, in board minutes),
there is a clear risk that the acquiring entity will
overpay
Use of provisions to manipulate post Provisions may be recognised at the point of
acquisition profits acquisition and then released at some point in the
future in order to make post-change results appear
impressive. This may imply that change was a
correct business decision. The use of such provisions
has been reduced by IAS 37
AUDIT PROCEDURES
`The diagram below summarises the key points in the context of the group audit.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
Inappropriate inclusion, or exclusion from, financial statements are free from material
consolidation or incorrect treatment of misstatement)
excluded subsidiaries Past audit problems
Inappropriate consolidation method Anticipated changes
Inappropriate translation method for Materiality
overseas subsidiaries Sufficiency of evidence to confirm amounts
Incorrect consolidation adjustments eg, Overseas subsidiaries (see section 12.8)
failure to eliminate intra-group items Non-coterminous year ends
properly eg, leading to potential Existence of letter of comfort (see section 12.9)
overstatements of assets and profits
Inconsistent accounting policies for
amounts included in consolidation
Incorrect calculation (fair values) or
treatment of goodwill
Incorrect calculation of profit/loss on
disposal or classification of results of
subsidiaries disposed of (continuing vs
discontinued)
Incorrect determination of date of
acquisition
Deferred or contingent consideration; step
acquisition
Acquisition
If the group audit includes a newly acquired subsidiary or a subsidiary which is disposed of,
compliance with IFRS 3 and IFRS 10 will be relevant. The auditor will need to consider the following
issues in particular
Issue Audit consequence
Level of control The auditor will need to consider whether the
appropriate accounting treatment has been adopted
depending on the level of control (per IFRS 10 an
investor controls an investee if it has power over the
investee, exposure or rights to variable returns and the
ability to use power to affect returns). Procedures will
be as follows:
Identify total number of shares held to calculate %
holding.
Review contract or agreements between companies
to identify key terms which may indicate control
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
and any restriction on control eg, right of veto of
third parties.
Date of control/change in stake The auditor should:
Review purchase agreement to identify date of
control.
Ensure consolidation has occurred from date
control achieved.
Review consolidation schedules to ensure amounts
have been time apportioned if appropriate.
Valuation of assets and liabilities at fair A review will need to be carried out of the fair value
value of assets and liabilities at the date of acquisition,
adjusted to the year end (in accordance with IFRS 13).
Review of trade journals or specialist valuations may
be required. Where specialist valuers have been used
(eg, to value brands) an assessment will need to be
made on the reliability of these valuations. Where
intangibles have been recognized on consolidation
which were not previously recognised in the individual
financial statements of the company acquired the
auditor will need to give careful consideration as to
the justification of this and whether the treatment is
in accordance with IFRS 3/IFRS 13.
Estimates for provisions existing at the date of
acquisition will need to be assessed for reliability.
Valuation of consideration Contingent consideration should be included as part
of the consideration transferred. It must be measured
at fair value at the acquisition date.
The discount rate used to discount deferred
consideration should be validated
Goodwill The auditor will need to consider whether the initial
calculation is correct in accordance with IFRS 3.
Performance of the subsidiary company will need to
be reviewed to identify whether any impairment is
necessary
Tax liabilities and assets The amount of corporation tax liabilities provided for
will need to be reviewed
Deferred tax assets and liabilities must also be
reviewed. The impairment of assets or goodwill should
be taken into account
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
Prior year audit of subsidiary As first year of inclusion of subsidiary, review last
year's audit report for any modification and consider
implications for this year's audit if necessary.
Planning issues Adjust audit plan to ensure visit to subsidiary is
included. If audited by another auditor contact
secondary auditor to discuss the following:
Audit deadline
Type and quality of audit papers
Review of audit
Identification of consolidation adjustments.
Disposal
Where the group includes a subsidiary which has been disposed of during the year, the following
issues will be relevant:
Identification of the date of the change in stake
Assessment of the remaining stake to determine the appropriate accounting treatment post
disposal
Assessment of the fair value of the remaining stake
Whether the profit or loss on disposal has been calculated in accordance with IFRSs
Whether amounts have been appropriately time apportioned eg, income and expense items.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
necessary. (If not possible subsidiary's accounts may
still be used for consolidation provided that the gap
between the reporting dates is three months or less.)
Consolidation adjustments Review consolidation schedules, purchase, sales
ledger and intra-group accounts to identify any
intra-group transactions or outstanding balances,
ensure these have been cancelled out in the group
accounts.
Transactions involving group companies
Transactions involving group companies should be
audited in the same way as other transactions with
third parties. However, systems should exist to
ensure all intra-group transactions are separately
identified to ensure they are all appropriately
eliminated on consolidation.
Intra-group balances
These should be audited in the same way as
balances with third parties. In particular:
share certificates should be examined;
dividends should be verified;
intra-group balances should be verified
including any security attaching thereto;
carrying amounts should be assessed in the
same way as third-party investments; and
the need for transfer pricing adjustments
assessed.
Intercompany guarantees
Any intercompany guarantees (eg, as surety for
external loans) should be ascertained and
consideration given to whether disclosure as a
contingent liability is required.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
Consolidation adjustments are a major source of journal entries therefore procedures relating to
the detection of fraud may be relevant.
Risks may arise from incomplete information to support adjustments between accounting
frameworks.
An important part of the work on the consolidation will be checking the consolidation adjustments.
Consolidation adjustments generally fall into two categories:
Permanent consolidation adjustments
Consolidation adjustments for the current year
The audit steps involved in the consolidation process may be summarised as follows.
Step 1
Compare the audited accounts of each subsidiary/associate to the consolidation schedules to ensure
figures have been transposed correctly.
Step 2
Review the adjustments made on consolidation to ensure they are appropriate and comparable with
the previous year. This will involve the following:
Recording the dates and costs of acquisitions of subsidiaries and the assets acquired
Calculating goodwill and pre-acquisition reserves arising on consolidation
Preparing an overall reconciliation of movements on reserves and NCIs
Adjusting the individual subsidiary financial statements for differences in accounting policies
compared to the parent. This may include compliance with the accounting regulations of a
different jurisdiction (eg, where the individual subsidiary is UK GAAP compliant and the group
reports under IFRSs)
Step 3
For business combinations, determine the following:
Whether combination has been appropriately treated as an acquisition
The appropriateness of the date used as the date of combination
The treatment of the results of investments acquired during the year
If acquisition accounting has been used, that the fair value of acquired assets and liabilities is
in accordance with IFRS 13
Goodwill has been calculated correctly and impairment adjustment made if necessary
Step 4
For disposals:
agree the date used as the date for disposal to sales documentation; and
review management accounts to ascertain whether the results of the investment have been
included up to the date of disposal, and whether figures used are reasonable.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
Step 5
Consider whether previous treatment of existing subsidiaries or associates is still correct
(consider level of influence, degree of support)
Step 6
Verify the arithmetical accuracy of the consolidation workings by recalculating them
Step 7
Review the consolidated accounts for compliance with the legislation, accounting standards and
other relevant regulations. Care will need to be taken in the following circumstances:
Where group companies do not have coterminous accounting periods
Where subsidiaries are not consolidated
Where accounting policies of group members differ because foreign subsidiaries operate under
different rules, especially those located in developing countries
Where elimination of intra-group balances, transactions and profits is required.
Step 8
Review the consolidated accounts to confirm that they give a true and fair view in the
circumstances (including subsequent event reviews from all subsidiaries updated to date of audit
report on consolidated accounts).
The Audit and Assurance faculty document Auditing Groups: A Practical Guide also highlights the
importance of considering the process used to perform the consolidation process. Where
spreadsheets are used it is not enough to check the data that has been entered. Auditors also need
to check that the consolidation spreadsheets are actually working properly.
Overseas subsidiaries
The inclusion of one or more foreign subsidiaries within a group introduces additional risks,
including the following:
Non-compliance with the accounting requirements of IAS 21
Potential misstatement due to the effects of high inflation
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
Possible difficulty in the parent being able to exercise control, for example due to political
instability
Currency restrictions limiting payment of profits to the parent
There may be threats to going concern due to economic and/or political instability
Non-compliance with local taxes or misstatement of local tax liabilities. Audit procedures should
include the following:
Check that the balances of the subsidiary have been appropriately translated to the group
reporting currency:
– Assets and liabilities at the closing rate at the end of the reporting period
– Income and expenditure at the rate ruling at the transaction date. An average would be a
suitable alternative provided there have been no significant fluctuations
Confirm consistency of treatment of the translation of equity (closing rate or historical rate)
Check that the consolidation process has been performed correctly eg, elimination of intragroup
balances
Check the basis of the calculation of the non-controlling interest
Confirm that goodwill has been translated at the closing rate
Check the disclosure of exchange differences as a separate component of equity
Assess whether disclosure requirements of IAS 21 have been satisfied
If the foreign operation is operating in a hyperinflationary economy confirm that the financial
statements have been adjusted under IAS 29, Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies
before they are translated and consolidated
Involve a specialist tax audit team to review the calculation of tax balances against submitted
and draft tax returns.
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
Requesting that the component auditor completes a questionnaire or
representation
Obtaining confirmation from a relevant regulatory body
Discussing the component auditor with colleagues from their own firm
For component auditors based overseas consider whether they have
enough knowledge and experience of ISAs
Design group audit Get involved early. Talk to group management while they are planning the
process to match consolidation
management's Draft instructions to component auditors allocating work and be clear as
process and to deadlines required
timetable Focus the group audit on high risk areas
Consider risks arising from the consolidation process itself:
Consolidation adjustments
Incomplete information to support adjustments between accounting
frameworks eg, where a subsidiary prepares its local accounts under US
GAAP and the parent is preparing IFRS financial statements Discuss fraud
with component auditors and consider the following:
Business risks
How and where the group financial statements may be susceptible to
material misstatement due to fraud or error
How group management and component management could perpetrate
and conceal fraudulent financial reporting and how assets of the
components could be misappropriated
Known factors affecting the group that may provide the incentive or
pressure for group or component management or others to commit
fraud or indicate a culture or environment that enables those people to
rationalize committing fraud
The risk that group or component management may override controls
Understand internal control across the group:
Request details of material weaknesses in internal controls identified by
component auditors
Communicate material weaknesses in group-wide controls and
significant weaknesses in internal controls of components to group
management
Clearly communicate Explain the extent of the group auditors' involvement in the work of the
expectations and component auditors:
information required Make it clear what the component auditors are being asked to perform
including timetable eg, a full audit, a review or work on specific balances or transactions.
Clarify the timetable and format of reporting back
CFAP 6
Audit Focus
GROUP: TYPES OF INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COMBINATION
Review completed questionnaires and other deliverables from component
auditors carefully
Decide whether and when to visit component auditors and when to
request access to their working papers
Get group management to obtain the consent of subsidiary management
to communicate with the group auditor to deal with concerns about client
confidentiality and sensitivity
Consider whether holding discussions with or visiting component auditors
could deal with secrecy and data-protection issues
Obtain information There is often only a short time for group auditors to resolve any issues
early where arising from the report they receive from component auditors.
practicable
Request some information early, such as copies of management letter
points from component auditors carrying out planning and control testing
before the year end
Keep track of Where component auditors indicate up front that they will not be able to
whether reports have provide the information requested, consider alternatives rather than
been received and waiting until the sign-off deadline
respond to any issues Put in place a system to monitor responses to instructions and follow up
in a timely fashion on non-submission
Conclude on the The group auditors should be in a position to form their opinion on the
audit and consider group financial statements
possible The group auditors will consider the need for a group management letter
improvements for and reporting to those charged with governance of the group
the next year's Debrief the team and consider whether the process worked as well as it
process including could have done, along with any changes to future accounting and
management letter auditing requirements, and whether there are any issues that should be
issues communicated to management and those charged with governance, or
any changes to next year's audit strategy.