The Financial Stability Board convened a roundtable to examine how structural shifts in the global audit industry could affect financial stability, with a particular focus on audit quality. The discussion centered on the growing use of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, in external audits and the investment demands associated with those changes, which have often led to changes in audit firm ownership. Participants considered the risks and opportunities created by evolving ownership models and new technologies in the accountancy and audit profession. They reviewed the main drivers of these trends, practices seen across jurisdictions, and whether existing auditing, assurance and ethics standards remain adequate. The discussion also addressed how to improve audit quality against an adverse trend in audit inspection findings in recent years. Attendees included FSB member authorities, standard-setting and audit oversight bodies, international accountancy organizations, the six largest global audit networks, a local audit firm and other stakeholders.
Financial Stability Board2026-06-18
Financial Stability Board convenes roundtable on audit quality and ownership changes in the global audit industry
The Financial Stability Board held a roundtable on the financial stability implications of structural change in the global audit industry. Discussions focused on audit firm ownership changes linked to technology investment, including artificial intelligence, and on how those shifts may affect audit quality and the adequacy of existing standards. Participants also discussed ways to address a recent adverse trend in audit inspection findings.