Proposed Statement on Standards for Accounting & Review Services
On September 23, 2024, the AICPA’s Accounting & Review Services Committee proposed amendments to AR-C Section 70, Preparation of Financial Statements, in AICPA Professional Standards. The proposed changes clarify that AR-C Section 70 does not apply to financial statements prepared as part of a consulting services engagement performed in accordance with CS Section 100, Consulting Services: Definitions and Standards. The comment period ends December 20. The proposed SSARS would become effective for the preparation of financial statements for period ending on or after December 15, 2026. Early implementation would be permitted.
Private Equity Pressures
Private equity is shaking things up in the audit world! With more PE money flowing into firms, we’re facing big questions about independence, ethical standards, and service quality. As the industry evolves, it’s crucial that YOUR voice is heard! That’s why NASBA is conducting a survey to gather feedback from professionals like YOU. Your insights will help shape how we navigate these changes and ensure the highest standards of integrity in our field.
AICPA Fall Council 2024
The AICPA Fall Council Meeting was one for the books! This was Barry Melancon’s last council meeting as the AICPA’s CEO and included a celebratory lunch in his honor. The Council was also introduced to Mark Koziel who will be leading the AICPA as of January 1, 2025. Updates came from different AICPA committees and departments about the pipeline, the NASBA exposure drafts, and more! Listen in to hear the latest information coming out of the AICPA.
FASB ED: Share-Based Consideration Payable to a Customer
The FASB has issued a proposal to clarify accounting for share based payments to customers to reduce diversity in practice. Comments are due November 14th.
CPA Competency-Based Experience Pathway & UAA Exposure Draft
On September 12, the AICPA & NASBA issued an exposure draft on the CPA Competency-Based Experience Pathway, offering an additional pathway for CPA candidates to meet initial licensure requirements in response to pipeline issues instead of earning a master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree and up to 30 additional credit hours at an institute of higher learning. Under this alternative pathway, CPA candidates would need a bachelor’s degree, complete one year of professional general experience, pass the CPA Exam, and exhibit competency in specific professional & technical areas. In addition, on September 30, the AICPA & NASBA issued an exposure draft on proposed Uniform Accountancy Act changes. The proposed changes to the UAA would facilitate the adoption of the Competency-Based Experienced Pathway. Comments are due on the CPA Competency-Based Experience Pathway by December 6, and comments on the UAA are due by December 30.
FASB Proposal for Hedging Accounting Improvements
The AICPA has proposed changes to the independence guidance for 529 plans. The original interpretations has deemed 529 plans to be direct financial interests. Due to changes in how plans are run and the types of plans, PEEC has reconsidered this position and is now proposing treating 529 savings plans as indirect financial interests. Comments are due October 30th.
Proposed Ethics Interpretation: 529 Plans
The AICPA has proposed changes to the independence guidance for 529 plans. The original interpretations has deemed 529 plans to be direct financial interests. Due to changes in how plans are run and the types of plans, PEEC has reconsidered this position and is now proposing treating 529 savings plans as indirect financial interests. Comments are due October 30th.
Financial Data Transparency Act: Joint Data Standards
The proposed joint data standards for the Financial Data Transparency Act (FDTA) were issued in August 2024. The public is invited to make comments on the proposed rule by October 21, 2024. In this blog, we will walk through the different data standards that were proposed jointly by the 9 agencies. This is a must watch as you don’t want to miss your opportunity to review the rule before enactment, and provide your feedback.
Disclaimer: The information contained within this blog is provided for informational purposes only. Viewing this material does not qualify for CPE credit. Additionally, this general knowledge is not intended to substitute for obtaining accounting, legal, or financial advice from a professional accountant with specific knowledge of your organization. Finally, watching this blog and/or subscribing to the newsletter do not create an accountant-client relationship.
