In this issue…

Global Ethics Day is celebrated annually in October to raise awareness of what ethics means to society, and how organisations and individuals can feel empowered to act in the interests of all.

So, this month, we delve into ACCA’s new report on the ethical challenges for professional accountants. As leaders navigate the growing complexity of doing business today, how important is it for an ethical culture to be embedded within an organisation? We look at how an international ethics standard for sustainability assurance will be crucial in building public trust in companies’ non-financial reporting. And we find out why greater scrutiny of companies’ tax arrangements has meant that businesses need to rethink how they conduct their tax affairs through an ethics lens.

Also in this issue, we have an inspirational interview with accounting veteran Sharon Chow FCCA, who has spent three decades working for global business services company CSC. Currently senior director, accounting, payroll and tax, Chow has moved into a variety of roles in different countries, which has given her a unique view into business that many people do not get a chance to see. She talks about why she likes to harness the power of positivity.

Elsewhere, Malaysia’s sustainability framework will benefit greatly from the accountancy profession’s input as the nation shapes and steers its reporting requirements. What might this mean for companies’ compliance and how might accountants lead the way?

And, as the growing activity in mergers of small and medium-sized practices in Asia Pacific potentially reshapes the sector, SMPs are finding that consolidation allows them to increase their service offerings while tackling talent shortages and rising costs.

Leading with empathy is the topic of our CPD article from business psychologist Dr Rob Yeung. In an era when making tough decisions and driving results are the modus operandi of doing business, is there a place for an empathic approach to leadership?

Finally, a reminder about ACCA’s upcoming annual conference, Accounting for the Future. With the theme of ‘Embracing the disruption’, the three-day event looks at trends and developments affecting professional accountants around the world, including opportunities in new technology, imperatives for sustainability, and the skills needed in this fast-moving landscape. Register to attend live on 26-28 November or on demand.