From Risk to Reward: Why Accountants Need to Know About Internal Controls
In this article we look at internal controls through the lens of an accountant highlighting their role in ensuring robust financial management. Learn how these controls help protect assets, ensure the accuracy of financial statements, and uphold compliance with laws—key areas where accountants play a crucial role.
Avoiding Penalties: Payroll Essentials for NPOs
While Public Benefit Organizations (PBOs) enjoy some tax benefits they are not exempt from employees tax. Compliance with tax laws is paramount for the survival of nonprofits when it comes to registering with SARS, the Department of Labour, and the Compensation Fund, covering obligations like PAYE, UIF, and SDL. In this article we look at the requirements and what NPOs should consider.
The Rise of Remote Work: Can Digital Nomad Visas Work in South Africa?
Explore the evolving world of remote work when as look at how South Africa is planning to introduce digital nomad visas. How does the effort compare to countries like Portugal who managed to successfully adapt their immigration policies to attract global remote workers?
Analytical Review is a Tool to Ensure ‘Fair Presentation’ of Financial Statements
In this article we showcase how using analytical reviews can help accountants in confirming ‘fair presentation’ of information in the financial statements of clients. We explore the use of analytical reviews to assist accountants drafting accurate and transparent financial information in financial statements, helping accountants apply consistent accounting policies, and quickly identify discrepancies.
Simplifying Accounting for Small-Scale Farmers: A Tax Basis Approach
In this article we explore how small farmers in South Africa can simplify their financial management by adopting tax basis accounting, aligning their accounts to SARS requirements. Using an example, we show how market transactions and standard value inventory adjustments lead to efficient tax-ready financial statements.
From Seeds to Sale: Accounting for Farming Operations
Explore the differences in agricultural accounting with our article. Learn about effectively managing the differences in financial reporting of the agricultural sector including the valuation of biological assets. Learn what you need to know to expand your services into agricultural finance, ensure compliance and better reporting in farming operations.
Dividends and Reportable Irregularities
This comprehensive guide explains the critical role of accountants in the processes of dividend distribution and independent reviews under contemporary corporate regulations. It covers the essential solvency and liquidity tests required before distributions, and details how accountants can navigate and enforce these standards to maintain corporate financial health and regulatory compliance.
Essential Strategies for Related Party Disclosures in Financial Reporting
Explore the essentials of IAS 24 on related party disclosures. Learn how you can ensure transparent and accurate financial reports by managing and disclosing relationships and transactions between related parties. This article offers practical tips and insights for compliance with financial reporting standards, ideal for professionals aiming to enhance their accounting practices.
Mastering Accounting Estimates: Key to Fair Financial Representation
Explore with us the critical role of accounting estimates in financial statements. Learn about methodologies, inherent challenges, and strategies for minimising uncertainties to achieve fair and reliable financial reporting, essential for accountants and auditors. Use CIBA’s handy template to document accounting estimates.
Embracing Change: 4 Key Areas Where Accountants Can Lead the Way
Explore the skills you need and steps you can take to lead clients and businesses towards sustainable practices while opening up new market opportunities.
Understanding Performance Audits: A Guide for Accountants
Explore the importance of performance audits in South Africa’s public sector. Understand how these audits help ensure that government programs are efficient, effective, and equitable, and see real-world examples of their impact, including the case of South Africa's abandoned mines.
Materiality and Its Impact on Financial Reporting
In this article we explore the importance of materiality in financial reporting, identifying the significance of financial information and how it impacts stakeholder decisions. We look at the concept of materiality and how it is used in the preparation of financial statements, ensuring clarity, relevance, and integrity of the information.
Understanding NOCLAR: Frameworks and Responsibilities of Accountants
Discover key procedures for accountants to effectively manage Non-Compliance with Laws and Regulations (NOCLAR). This guide outlines crucial steps for identifying, addressing, and documenting NOCLAR issues, including discussions with management and when to involve authorities. Ideal for accountants aiming to uphold compliance and integrity within their practice.
NLC Fraud and the Role of Accountants
Dive into the intricate details of the corruption scandal within the NLC and learn how trained, independent accountants can help protect funds intended for charitable causes. Despite challenges, a plan is in place to enhance transparency and accountability with the assistance of accountants.
Accounting Essentials: Evaluation of Going Concern for Business Viability
Evaluating whether the client’s business is a going concern is a not always a straight forward task. In this article we give a practical overview on what to consider when preparing financial statements, including how to evaluate financial stability and accurately prepare financial statements in line with IFRS and the Companies Act.
Understanding Independent Review Engagements in Financial Reporting
Explore the key aspects of independent review engagements, their role in financial assurance, and the regulatory requirements in South Africa that affect how these reviews are conducted and who can perform them.
How to Perform an Accounting Officer Engagement and Issue an Accounting Officer Report for a Close Corporation
Under the Close Corporations Act 69 of 1984, every close corporation is required to appoint an accounting officer. This article guides you through the process of performing an accounting officer engagement and issuing an accounting officer report, ensuring compliance with the Act's stipulations.
The Evolving Role of Accountants in Sustainability Reporting
In our latest article we explore sustainability reporting globally and in South Africa, the standards and the enhanced role of accountants. We provide practical guidance for accountants on how they can assist clients in leveraging sustainability for their strategic advantage. Discover how you can tap into a niche market and offer a unique value proposition.
Namibia’s Greylisting: What Does It Mean for Accountants
In this article we explore the impact that Namibia's recent greylisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) have on the work accountants. Learn about the FATF’s evaluation processes, Namibia’s compliance efforts, and the vital role of accountants in enhancing AML and CTF measures to meet international standards.
The Role of Management Representations in Financial Reporting
Explore the critical role of management representations in financial reporting. Learn how these formal statements from senior management, confirming the accuracy and completeness of financial data, are essential in audits, reviews, and financial statement compilations. Discover their mandated use across various standards including ISA 580, ISRE 2400, and ISRS 4410, enhancing transparency and accountability in financial engagements.