Accountancy Insights
Accountancy Insights is a podcast series from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). In each episode, a panel of guests examines the latest headlines from the world of business, finance and accountancy. The discussions offer expert analysis and professional perspective on the top stories affecting the profession. It is aimed at accountants and finance professionals who want to stay informed about current developments.
Episodes
How can business overcome its biggest challenges – live at ICAEW Conference
In this episode, recorded from ICAEW’s Annual Conference, we speak to the biggest speakers from across the day about the challenges facing businesses in a variety of sectors, and what can be done about them. From the economy to cybercrime and growing in unpredictable environments, we cover a lot of ground.You may also note the change of name: as the podcast has grown, it has attracted a broader au
Behind the Numbers: Modernising Corporate Reporting – the big questions
In this special bonus episode, we hear exclusively from the Department for Business, Innovation Science and Trade (BIST) on the government’s plans for corporate reporting, the Modernising Corporate Reporting (MCR) agenda. It’s a potentially huge change and the government wants to implement it quickly, so now is the time to address its implications.In this episode, we run through the major changes
The Audit Report: What does Modernising Corporate Reporting mean for auditors?
On the first ever episode of The Audit Report – the podcast that looks at the factors shaping modern audit – we’re discussing the long-awaited consultation on Modernising Corporate Reporting. The Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade is consulting on what it should look like. What could it mean for auditors?LinksICAEW: Modernising Corporate Reporting survey - https://www.icaew.com
Accountancy Insights: Is your identity at risk?
Cyber criminals spend much of their time working on identity theft. If you hold a responsible position in your organisation, they might very well be working on you. Or worse – they might be lurking in your smart coffee machine.Identity theft is now recognised as the best path to success for cyber criminals and with more and more information about ourselves and our organisations online, we make it
Behind the Numbers: Healey's Budget options are narrowing
On 7 September, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey delivered a speech setting out his goals for the Budget, amid twitchiness in the bond markets. What did he hope to achieve, and what does it tell us about the Budget in October? We discuss the speech, the factors that are likely to shape the Budget, and what options the Chancellor has to encourage growth, balance tax and spend, and calm th
Accountancy Insights: How did MTD go? The dangers of digital fraud
In this episode, we take a look at the government’s Fraud in the Digital Age report: what does it tell us about trends and what can businesses do to protect themselves? And with the first submissions deadline for Income Tax under the new Making Tax Digital system just passed - how did it go? We discuss the lessons learned for the next submission.LinksICAEW: HMRC to begin signing up taxpayers for M
How to plan for a Russian test of NATO
For Business, faraway wars feel way closer than they used to. In the current volatile geopolitical environment, businesses need to consider planning for these events. So in this episode, we run through such an exercise: what if Russia tests NATO resolve by firing on Poland and amassing troops near the region? We explore this hypothetical but increasingly plausible scenario in this episode. LinksCh
EY’s backing AI agents; and a new form of insider trading
In this episode, EY UK Digital Assurance Leader Richard Harrison joins us to talk about how the firm is using AI agents in audit. How do they divide tasks between people and tech? And how are they understanding and mitigating risk?Then, Polly Tsang, ICAEW’s Senior Financial Services Regulatory Manager tells us about Prediction Markets. While you may not have heard of them, they’re opening up a wh
Behind the Numbers: Is there really a growing AI bubble?
The question of whether an ‘AI bubble’ is going to burst doesn’t seem to be going away. There’s a compelling case to be made on both sides of the argument, with the growing demand for AI tools, and the huge amount of money and resources needed to deliver on that demand. So what are the actual risks of an AI bubble, and what would that mean for the tools that businesses and firms are investing in r
Accountancy Insights: Looking ahead: HMRC’s digital moves and impacts of Iran war
We’ll have a new PM soon, while the war in the Middle East rages on. Does this mean more uncertainty for businesses in the second half of 2026? ICAEW’s Chief Economist tries to predict what might happen next. If that wasn’t enough, there’s a lot going on in tax at the moment, from MTD Income Tax to new agent registration rules and more tax changes than expected mid-year. Lindsey Wicks explains all
Behind the Numbers: When is CEO pay a problem?
Last year CEO pay rose 20 times faster than workers’ pay, according to new research from Oxfam and the International Trade Union Confederation. At the most extreme end of that pay scale, investors approved an executive package for Elon Musk worth a potential $1tn. So when does CEO pay become too high? What are the commercial, ethical and cultural implications for organisations if they’re perceive
Accountancy Insights: Understanding tokenisation plans; rethinking the audit report
The government has plans to tokenise financial markets. What exactly is tokenisation? What might it look like in practice and what are the big questions about it that still need answering? Polly Tsang, ICAEW’s Senior Financial Services Regulatory Manager, explains. After that, audit reports: ICAEW has created the Auditor Reporting Lab, alongside audit firms, to encourage modernisation in the marke
Behind the Numbers: Are you taking fraud seriously enough?
Fraud is the largest reported crime in England and Wales, and the UK government wants to bring numbers down. With failure to prevent fraud now an offence, there is some onus on business to address the issue. But are enough businesses taking it seriously?In this episode, we take a look at the common types of fraud, what businesses should be vigilant of, and how can they protect themselves?LinksUK g
Accountancy Insights: Can businesses mitigate rising energy prices? Plus AI in audit, UK GAAP
Everyone’s talking about energy costs at the moment. Greenfields Energy Group’s co-founder LIAM CONWAY walks us through the energy impacts of the Iran War and outlines the best ways for businesses to protect themselves from global energy shocks. Elsewhere on the episode, we discuss new guidance from the Financial Reporting Council on managing the risks for auditors when it comes to AI adoption;
Behind the Numbers: Is AI accelerating the brain drain?
AI is already having an impact on the make-up of audit teams and there’s some evidence it’s already reducing the number of junior roles. But it’s all still new, and developing all of the time. What about the medium and longer term effects? How might it change training and career paths and will it ultimately boost or diminish the appeal of a career in accountancy? We’re joined by a young accountant
Accountancy Insights: What does the Iran conflict really mean for British Business?
We’ve already seen immediate spikes and fluctuations in the oil price and the wider financial and commodity markets. But how will the UK economy be affected in the months to come and how heavy a price will British Business pay? RSM Chief Economist Tom Pugh shares his thoughts. Liz Barclay is Co-founder of Business 111, Special Adviser on Small Business & Entrepreneurship at the Institute of
Behind the Numbers: UK SRS – what’s in it, and the FCA consultation
UK Sustainability Reporting Standards (UK SRS) are bringing sustainability reporting in line with international standards. So who will be mandated to use them and how will they apply in practice? The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is consulting on this at the moment. One of the people behind the international standards joins us and ICAEW’s Sustainability Reporting and Assurance Director to disc
Accountancy Insights: Corporate reporting is changing, MTD on the way
There’s just one month to go till Making Tax Digital kicks in for Income Tax; we take a look at how the transition will go. There’s also a lot happening in corporate reporting at the moment – Sally Baker brings us up to speed.LinksICAEW: Making Tax Digital - https://www.icaew.com/technical/tax/making-tax-digitalICAEW: MTD: How to prepare your clients - https://www.icaew.com/insights/tax-news/2026/
Behind the Numbers: How to get to the c-suite
This episode looks at routes to the C-suite, and the traits, skills and capabilities you’ll need to get you there. Accountants are highly represented in the C-suite, with one in four CEOs holding the qualification according to research by Robert Half.However, the working world is going through rapid technological and cultural transformation. So how is that changing the competencies that organisati
Accountancy Insights: How to use AI in tax ethically, and group audit best practice
This episode covers AI and tax work and ISA 600 on group audits, following the release of two pieces of guidance on the topics. With several tax cases in which AI has been used and provided incorrect or misleading information, we outline how to apply the five fundamental ethical principles to AI use. ISA 600 on group audits was revised, effective for audits of financial statements for periods comm
Behind the Numbers: How the Celsius scandal is reshaping Crypto regulation
Celsius network claimed to be a safe place to trade digital currencies and assets. In reality, it was using customers’ money for its own ends. In the first Behind the Numbers of the New Year, we explore the collapse of digital currency platform Celsius network, the scandal that followed, and its lasting impact on crypto asset regulation, particularly custody. Since that scandal, international reg
Behind the Numbers: A World Cup bump, an AI slump? 2026 predictions
In the first episode of 2026, our usual team of soothsayers David Williamson, Frances Haque and Iain Wright review the events of the past 12 months, and look ahead to what we might expect in the coming year. Will 2026 be more of the same, or will there be some reasons to be cheerful? Could the AI bubble burst, or will it just deflate? And did our panel get anything right last year?TranscriptRead t
Behind the Numbers: Best of 2025
With Christmas round the corner, we’ve put together a special best of episode of Behind the Numbers, featuring some of the most memorable conversations from throughout the year. From discussions of Trump and tariffs on our 100th episode to one of our favourite conversations on the history of money, it’s an excellent way to remind yourself of what went on this year – or catch up on what you’ve miss
Accountancy Insights: Budget 25: where’s the growth?
This episode is all about the Budget. What was in it? What are the implications? Was there anything positive to glean from it? Stepping in for Philippa Lamb on this episode, Guy Ruddle speaks to the usual economic dream team of Santander Chief Economist Frances Haque, David Williamson, who joins us from Portcullis House, and Iain Wright, ICAEW’s Chief Policy and Communications Officer. They share
Accountancy Insights: How should audit firms use AI?
This episode focuses on the integration of AI in audit processes, emphasising the need for practical guidance from the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) to build industry confidence, especially with smaller firms. The conversation highlighted the importance of human oversight, the role of third-party technology providers, the challenges of explainability and data security, and the need for clear c
Accountancy Insights: LLMs and spreadsheets, Companies House IDV, and the OBR’s role
In this episode, we’re exploring just how useful Large Language Models (LLMs) are when it comes to spreadsheets; what needs to happen by 18 November when it comes to Companies House ID verification; and how the OBR comes to its conclusions.Host Philippa Lamb is joined by Simon Thorne, Senior Lecturer in Computer Science, Cardiff Metropolitan University, to talk about his research into LLMs' e
Behind the Numbers: How to bounce back from a cyber attack
In this episode, we discuss how prepared organisations really are for cyber attacks, what to do if and when your business is affected, and how to manage the communications challenges. We have a great case study from a company that suffered a cyber attack, with plenty of lessons about how to mitigate the impact on customers and return quickly to business as usual.Philippa Lamb is joined by Peter Da
Behind the Numbers: Dealing with uncertainty, and mental health
We’re all navigating uncertainty right now. How can accountants manage it professionally and personally? Riaz Shah OBE, former EY Partner and Professor of Practice at Hult International Business School, breaks down the biggest factors affecting the profession at the moment, and how it might shape the role and future of accountants. Then Paul Guess, Case Management Officer for accountants’ support
Behind the Numbers: Should we compensate whistleblowers?
Whistleblowing is a vital process but often fraught with far more risk and emotional upheaval than it should be. In Western Europe, 43% of all occupational fraud cases come to light thanks to whistleblowers. And it’s not just fraud: cases from poor health-and-safety practices to bad team management have all been righted thanks to people speaking out.Although many whistleblowing cases do result in
Accountancy Insights: Kemi Badenoch on growth and the profession
In this special episode of Accountancy Insights, we bring you a timely interview of Kemi Badenoch by ICAEW’s Chief Executive Alan Vallance who sat down with her after a speech she gave at Chartered Accountants’ Hall.Badenoch talked about tackling perennial long-term problems like productivity and smarter regulation. She spoke with feeling about her frustration when, as Business Secretary in the pr
Accountancy Insights: Companies House update, scaling up smartly and the Next Generation ACA
Accountancy Insights explores the month’s top stories in the profession.In this episode, we discuss the introduction of four statutory instruments to enforce Companies House reform, as well as the common mistakes to avoid when scaling up a business. We also cover the introduction and content of the Next Generation ACA qualification.Philippa Lamb is joined by Mike Miller, ICAEW Economic Crime Manag
Accountancy Insights: Can history teach us anything about digital money?
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we explore what the history of money can tell us about its future.Currency has been evolving for thousands of years, but the pace of change has now escalated with the introduction of online banking and digital currencies. We discuss the parallels between modern and historical advances in currency, and key lessons as central banks look to introduce their own d
Accountancy Insights: Bonus episode - how to tackle late payments
ICAEW’s Iain Wright hosts a conversation with Emma Jones CBE, the government’s newly appointed Small Business Commissioner, in this special episode of Accountancy Insights. Jones discusses the Small Business Plan, launched on 30 July, which introduces new measures to tackle late payments. Estimates place the cost of late payments to the UK economy at £11bn per year as well as contributing to the c
Accountancy Insights: Inside the Post Office Inquiry and new mid-tier research
In this episode, we discuss the findings of the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry’s first report, including lessons for other companies around culture and values. We also explore ICAEW’s latest research into mid-tier practices, covering the key drivers of growth and the biggest challenges ahead. Philippa Lamb is joined in the studio by Peter van Veen, ICAEW Director of Corporate Governance and Stewar
Behind the numbers: Appraising Starmer’s Labour
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the hits and misses of the Labour government’s first year in power. While there have been some clear wins over the past 12 months, particularly on the international stage, domestic politics have felt far less controlled. Our panel evaluates the previous year, as well as suggesting where the government goes from here as it enters its second year. Ho
Accountancy Insights: Inside the Industrial Strategy and navigating VAT reform
In this episode, we discuss the government’s new Industrial Strategy and, in particular, its sector plan for professional and business services with Iain Wright, ICAEW Chief Policy and Communications Officer. Iain is Chair of the Professional and Business Services Council, which has worked closely with government in devising the final plans. We also met speakers at ICAEW’s How to Fix VAT conferenc
Behind the numbers: Investment risk - lessons from Russia
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss how businesses can best navigate geopolitical risk. With the Trump administration’s push for tariffs, and wars taking place in Europe and the Middle East, doing business internationally is increasingly unpredictable. We explore the lessons learned from Russia’s recent history – beginning with the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 all the way through
Accountancy Insights: Supporting SME growth and professional judgement in audit
In this episode, we discuss how SMEs can pursue growth in today’s environment of economic uncertainty, as well as explaining how auditors should be fulfilling their responsibilities to exercise professional judgement and scepticism. Philippa Lamb is joined by start-up consultant Romesh Jeyaseelanayagam and Rhodri Whitlock, Director at HPL Associates. Time codes00:33 Supporting SME growth08:37 Prof
Behind the Numbers: Rebuilding trust in volatile times
Accountancy Insights is celebrating its 100th episode. To mark the occasion, we’ve brought together experts from across business, politics and technology to look at a fundamental problem that’s holding back economic growth: trust. Just how deep is the trust crisis in business and institutions that we hear so much about? And how can it possibly be rebuilt as economic volatility persists? We set the
Accountancy Insights: Collecting unpaid taxes and revisions to the Code of Ethics
In this episode, we discuss the government’s new measures to collect billions of pounds in unpaid taxes, as well as covering the key changes to ICAEW’s Code of Ethics, which come into effect on 1 July 2025. Philippa Lamb is joined by Stephen Relf, Technical Manager, Tax; and Laura Hough, Director of Trust and Ethics. This episode refers to penalty rates based on the Bank of England base rate, corr
Behind the numbers: The professional pitfalls of social media
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss how professionals should approach social media. Social media can be a minefield, particularly when personal and professional lives are closely interwoven. Online debate has become increasingly polarised, including how people use professional networks such as LinkedIn. We cover some common pitfalls and explain how ethical principles should be inform
Accountancy Insights: Adapting post-tariffs, MTD at 10, UK GAAP changes
In this episode, we discuss how the Trump administration’s tariffs will hamper the government’s growth plans, the progress made towards Making Tax Digital on its tenth birthday, and how changes to FRS 102 and 105 will affect the nation’s small businesses. Philippa Lamb is joined in the studio by Iain Wright, Chief Policy and Communications Officer; Caroline Miskin, Senior Technical Manager, Digita
Behind the numbers: What Britain needs to grow
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the necessary ingredients to support economic growth. It’s a clear priority for the government. An industrial strategy is due to be published in the coming months – with eight key sectors for the UK already identified – and reviews of taxation and regulation are also taking place. As the Spring Statement arrives on 26 March, our panel explores whet
Accountancy insights: Happy birthday, HMRC
In this episode, we have a report by Mark Rowland from the ’20 Years of HMRC’ event held on 11 March at Chartered Accountants’ Hall, in which he speaks to James Murray, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, and Lord O’Donnell, former Permanent Secretary to the Treasury, among others, about the future of digitisation and HMRC. Tax changes announced at the budget are coming into effect in April and o
Behind the Numbers: Succession planning - is employee ownership the answer?
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the appropriateness of employee ownership trusts (EOTs) for accountancy practices. The majority of mid-tier accountancy and audit firms are still structured as limited liability partnerships. But, with nearly half of firms citing succession planning as a critical talent challenge, and private equity investors taking more interest in the sector, som
Trump tariffs update and HMRC service standards
In this episode, we discuss the latest developments in President Trump’s tariffs rollout and how they may affect UK businesses. We also explore a new joint report by ICAEW and the Chartered Institute of Taxation into HMRC service standards, which includes research findings from 31 agent firms. Philippa Lamb is joined in the studio by ICAEW’s Iain Wright, Managing Director of Reputation and Influen
Behind the Numbers: A ticking tech skills timebomb
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss continuous learning around technology and artificial intelligence. For accountants, getting the most out of fast-evolving technologies involves more than simply training people how to use them. Judgement, communication and granular accountancy skills all come into play. So how can firms identify their training needs and what are the best ways to de
Trump, tariffs and EU turmoil: 2025 predictions
In this special episode of Accountancy Insights, we look ahead to the most significant events and trends anticipated in 2025. Last year brought a new UK government and its controversial first Budget. With things now appearing more settled at home, the upcoming inauguration of President Trump in the US and the recent collapse of governments in Europe will bring new opportunities and challenges for
Behind the Numbers: the financial case for sustainability
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the progress of sustainability reporting. Across the globe, sustainability reporting has become increasingly mandated for large organisations. Now, with the CSRD introduced in the European Union and the first two ISSB standards set to be endorsed by the UK, the challenge for accountants lies in ensuring that the quality of non-financial information
Accountancy Insights: Regulating tax advice, plus new professional behaviour wording
In this episode, we speak to Ray McCann, fresh from delivering this year’s Hardman Lecture on Monday 25 November, about regulating the provision of tax advice. Plus, Sophie Wales, ICAEW Director of Regulatory Policy, explains upcoming changes to the ICAEW Code of Ethics around professional behaviour. Time codes00:55 Regulating tax advice08:09 New professional behaviour wording LinksICAEW: Hardman
Behind the Numbers: Can we unclog the local audit backlog?
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss whether the filing of local authority audited accounts will ever get back on track. Just 1% of local bodies published audited accounts on time for the 2022/23 [LE1] financial year. Now, the government has introduced backstop dates in the hopes of resetting the system, with the first arriving on 13 December. But will they anything change? And how sh
Accountancy Insights: Budget 2024 - a gamble on growth
In this special episode of Accountancy Insights, we discuss whether the Autumn Budget will provide a much-needed shot in the arm for business confidence and investment activity. Philippa Lamb is joined by Iain Wright, Managing Director, Reputation and Influence, ICAEW; Frances Haque, Chief Economist, Santander UK; and David Williamson, Political Editor, Sunday Express. LinksICAEW: Autumn Budget 20
Behind the Numbers: Guarding against the AI cyber crimewave
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss how the use of new technologies by criminals is putting businesses at risk. A recent Europe-wide report found that 40% of chief internal auditors cited artificial intelligence as a top five business-critical risk. So, how can professionals protect themselves and their employers? And what can SMEs with tighter budgets do to combat this threat? Host
Group audit and the forthcoming AI Bill
In this episode, we recap revisions to ISA 600 on group audit, and we discuss the likely contents of the AI Bill that is expected to be brought to Parliament before the end of the year. Philippa Lamb is joined by Catherine Hardinge, Partner at Price Bailey; and Oliver Nelson-Smith, Tech Policy Manager at ICAEW. Time codes00:30 Group audit06:18 AI Bill LinksICAEW: Reminders on group audit: https://
Behind the numbers: why are we taxing tourists?
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the introduction of tourism taxes in the UK. During 2024, such taxes have been introduced in Manchester, Poole, Bournemouth and Brighton. Now, Edinburgh City Council has put forward draft proposals for a visitor levy scheme, which would charge visitors 5% of their accommodation costs per night for up to a week. But how useful are tourism taxes in p
Accountancy Insights: Taxing cryptoassets and reporting suspicions of fraud
In this episode, we discuss the available guidance on, and the application of general principles to, the taxation of cryptoassets; as well as how auditors should be acting on their obligation to report suspicions of fraud to the regulator. Philippa Lamb is joined by Richard Jones, Senior Technical Manager in Tax Policy at ICAEW; Dion Seymour, Crypto and Digital Assets Technical Director at Anderse
Behind the Numbers: How to stop accountancy’s brain drain
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss ways to improve recruitment and retention in accountancy.While the pipeline of new joiners remains healthy, holding onto qualified staff is proving challenging. New research by ICAEW on mid-tier firms demonstrates just how significant the issue is – with 70% of participants identifying talent as their most significant challenge. So, what needs to h
Accountancy Insights: Business confidence, local authority finance, probate delays, and tax reform
In this bumper episode, we discuss the latest findings of ICAEW’s Business Confidence Monitor and why three-quarters of councils in England are at least a year behind in publishing audited accounts. Plus, we hear an update on the probate service and explore ICAEW’s recommendations for the new government’s business tax road map. Philippa Lamb is joined by Iain Wright, Managing Director of Reputatio
Behind the Numbers: Why are female-led startups so underfunded?
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss gender inequality in investment.Women continue to be underrepresented in venture capital, particularly at senior levels. The scales are even less balanced for female founders, who received just 2% of venture capital funding in recent years. As the new government puts productivity and growth at the top of its national agenda, how do we get things mo
Accountancy Insights: How to get Britain growing
One week on from the general election, this special episode of Accountancy Insights discusses the policies of the new UK government. The Labour Party has taken power with a sweeping victory not seen since 1997. Now, it faces the same challenge that successive governments have struggled to tackle: kickstarting the UK economy. With little room for manoeuvre in the public finances, can anything move
Behind the Numbers: Groupthink – the boardroom’s most pervasive problem?
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss strategies to prevent and tackle groupthink at board level. By suppressing debate and disrupting effective decision-making, groupthink poses a significant governance challenge for firms. Notably, the recent scandal over fee transparency at wealth manager St James’s Place – which has set aside £426m for client refunds – has been blamed on groupthink
Accountancy Insights: Corporate reporting update and VAT on private hire vehicles
In this episode, we discuss important developments in corporate reporting, including amendments to UK GAAP, new standards IFRS18 and IFRS19, and the timeline for implementing IFRS S1 and IFRS S2. We also discuss the evolving VAT treatment of private hire vehicles as a result of recent court cases and how the Treasury may seek to respond. Philippa Lamb is joined by Sally Baker, Head of Corporate Re
ICAEW Insights In Focus: AI in audit - the good, the bad and the ugly
In this ICAEW Insights In Focus episode, we discuss the use of artificial intelligence in audit. Depending on who you talk to, generative AI is either going to revolutionise the way auditors work or replace certain roles in the sector entirely. The truth probably lies somewhere in between. So, how are auditors beginning to use AI? And how can practices sift marketing fact from fiction and navigat
ICAEW Insights: Company size thresholds and CGT on residences
In this episode of the ICAEW Insights podcast, we discuss upcoming changes to company size thresholds and what they mean for reporting requirements. Plus, with capital gains tax in the headlines, we explore the rules and restrictions when it comes to selling residential property. Philippa Lamb is joined by Sally Baker, Head of Corporate Reporting Strategy, and Caroline Miskin, Senior Technical Ma
ICAEW Insights In Focus: Lessons in leadership from ICAEW's CEO
In this special bonus episode of Insights In Focus, we meet new ICAEW CEO Alan Vallance to discuss the leadership lessons of his career. Alan is an ICAEW Chartered Accountant and joined the Institute as CEO in April 2024. His career has spanned various sectors and countries, as well as detailed experience in leading membership bodies RIBA and the Chartered Insurance Institute in recent years. In
ICAEW Insights In Focus: So you want to be a leader?
In this Insights In Focus episode, we discuss how accountants can build the skills needed to take on leadership and executive roles during their careers. In a recent report by the Financial Times, one anonymous headhunter was quoted as saying: “If America is run by lawyers, then the UK is run by accountants.” It’s backed up by the data, too: around one-third of today’s FTSE 100 CEOs have previou
ICAEW Insights: A busy new tax year, plus progress on the Economic Crime Act
In this episode, we discuss why the arrival of the 2024/25 tax year is particularly busy for accountants, and the main changes to be aware of from 6 April. Plus, six months on from the passing of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, we learn what progress has been made to enact its various provisions. To shed light on those two topics, Philippa Lamb is joined by Stephen Relf, Technic
ICAEW Insights In Focus: Does Britain have a farming problem?
In this Insights In Focus episode, we discuss how changes to the funding of British farms could affect the UK’s broader economic resilience. As a result of Brexit, British farms will stop benefiting from the EU Common Agricultural Policy by the end of 2027. The policy paid subsidies largely regardless of land use. Now, farmers need to transition to new schemes established by the UK’s devolved admi
ICAEW Insights In Focus: Budget 2024 – does it change anything?
In this Insights In Focus episode, we discuss the contents of the 2024 Spring Budget and their likely impacts on the UK economy.The Spring Budget was delivered against the backdrop of recession and persistent inflation. While the Chancellor had better-than-expected headroom for delivering tax cuts, the UK economy and its public finances are still navigating a difficult road to recovery. And, with
ICAEW Insights In Focus: Will accountants save the world? With ICAEW CEO Michael Izza
In this Insights In Focus episode, we catch up with ICAEW Chief Executive Michael Izza ahead of his stepping down from his role later this month. Izza has been with ICAEW since 2002 and Chief Executive since 2006. In that time, he’s steered the Institute through the global financial crisis, the pandemic and the early stages of a global technological revolution. Host Philippa Lamb discusses with Iz
ICAEW Insights: ISQM, preparing and filing accounts, and public practice
In this episode, we discuss how firms can maintain momentum on the International Standard of Quality Management, as well as changes in preparation and filing as a result of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. We also hear about ICAEW’s new podcast, The Tax Track, and changes to the Engaging in Public Practice certificate. Philippa Lamb is joined by Alex Russell, Head of Audit and As
ICAEW Insights In Focus: Where next for audit and governance reform?
In this Insights In Focus episode, we discuss the future of audit and corporate governance reform. Back in May 2022, after years of reviews and consultations, the government announced its plans for reform. The key proposals included the area of a new audit regulator, a wider definition of public interest entities, and ensuring that FTSE 350 firms would not be wholly reliant on the largest audit fi
ICAEW Insights In Focus: What can we expect from 2024?
In this Insights In Focus episode, we discuss what 2024 is likely to bring for businesses and their accountants. Beyond a Spring Budget and elections on both sides of the Atlantic, there are few certainties for the coming 12 months. Looking at ICAEW’s Business Confidence Monitor and forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility and the Bank of England, 2024 is likely to be another challengin
ICAEW Insights In Focus: COP28 - making the business case for nature
In the second of two special Insights In Focus episodes, guest host Mark Rowland shares news and views from COP28 in Dubai. This episode focuses on capacity building within the finance profession and making the business case for a nature-positive transition. Mark is joined in the studio by Sarah Reay, Climate Change Manager, ICAEW; Jessica Fries, Executive Chair, A4S; and Mardi McBrien, Chief of S
ICAEW Insights In Focus: COP28 - what does transition planning mean for accountants?
In the first of two special Insights In Focus episodes, guest host Mark Rowland shares news and views from COP28 in Dubai. This episode focuses on the importance of transition plans in achieving net zero. In the studio, ICAEW Climate Change Manager Sarah Reay and Resilience First’s Shazre Quamber-Hill explain why transition planning is a vital part of the COP28 agenda. And on the conference floor,
ICAEW Insights In Focus: What’s in the Economic Crime Act 2023?
In this Insights In Focus episode, we explore the contents and implications of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.After a challenging route through Parliament, the Act finally received Royal Assent in late October. It promises sweeping changes to Companies House and reporting requirements for SMEs. Crucially, it also covers where accountability will lie for economic crime. Many
ICAEW Insights: ICAEW/CIPFA dual membership, cyber security trends, and economic renewal
The ICAEW Insights podcast explores the month’s top stories in accountancy. In this episode, we explain how ICAEW members can apply for dual membership with the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA). We also discuss the key points and learnings from this year’s Cyber Security Awareness Month and hear how ICAEW’s Resilience and Renewal campaign is progressing. Philippa Lamb
ICAEW Insights In Focus: How to build a workforce of the future
In this Insights In Focus episode, we explore strategies to expand and upskill Britain’s workforce. Low unemployment is currently twinned with high vacancies, leading to a tight labour market. One cause is an increase in the number of economically inactive. And ICAEW’s Business Confidence Monitor has flagged a lack of non-management skills as an escalating challenge for the nation’s employers. So
ICAEW Insights: Building a resilient economy, plus self assessment deadlines
In this episode, we discuss a new content series recently launched by ICAEW: ‘Resilience and renewal: building an economy fit for the future’. The campaign explores the main challenges facing the UK economy and how chartered accountants are integral in addressing them. Plus, we share key deadlines for those filing self assessment returns and the penalties that may be handed down should they be mi
ICAEW Insights In Focus: Why do good people do bad things?
In this Insights In Focus episode, we discuss professional ethics and seek to answer the age-old question: why do good people do bad things? Accountants are increasingly acting as an ethical compass for their employers and clients. It’s a natural fit for a profession that has a deep understanding of business and a professional duty to act in the public interest, but it’s also a weighty responsibil
