Decoding Ethics: Building trust in a tech-driven world

This episode explores how professionals can manage theimpact of emerging technologies, particularly AI and automation. A clear message emerges: navigating rapid change requires a return to basics and to the fundamental principles that underpin trust and the credibility of theprofession. Jeanne Viljoen is joined by Danielle Supkis Cheek, a globalleader in cloud-enabled audit, financial reporting, and data analytics solutions. Together, they reflect on how, while technology is transforming how work is performed, the underlying ethical principles remain unchanged, offeringa stable lens through which professionals can reframe problems and manage the pressures these technologies place on judgment, risk management, and competence.Takeways - The shift from optimizing for efficiency to prioritizingquality, with efficiency as a byproduct - The importance of understanding and identifying risks- Rethinking professional competence in a world where noindividual can master all relevant knowledge- The role of human oversight in technology-enabled workflows, and how it should be applied based on risk - The need for strong governance and process design to enableresponsible innovation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ethics in Accountancy01:48 Danielle’s Journey into AI, Analytics, and Assurance04:26 The Impact of Technology on Accounting07:07 Concerns and Misconceptions about AI and Automation11:59 Ethical Risks in Emerging Technologies14:22 Professional Competence and Due Care in the Age of AI19:17 Human Oversight in AI: What “Human in the Loop” ReallyMeans25:10 Navigating Automation Bias and Process Design30:04 Balancing Innovation and Ethics34:49 Adapting Ethical Standards for Emerging Technologies38:18 Recognizing Bias and Expanding Decision-MakingPerspectives40:57 Closing Remarks and Key Takeaways⁠#DecodingEthics⁠ ⁠#AccountingEthics

This episode explores the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in the accounting profession. Jeanne Viljoen is joined by Alistair Brisbourne and Sarah Lane from the ACCA Policy and Insights team to discuss real-world dilemmas finance professionals are beginning to face.Drawing on insights from ACCA’s recent AI Monitor report, the conversation examines how AI is already embedded in everyday accounting tools, the ethical risks this creates, and why professional judgment remains essential. The discussion also highlights practical guidance for navigating issues such as data confidentiality, automation bias, and the governance challenges organizations face when adopting AI.A central message emerges from the conversation: while AI is transforming how accountants work, ethical responsibility and accountability remain firmly human.If this episode made you think differently about the future of technology and ethics, follow Decoding Ethics for more conversations on how trust is built in a tech‑driven world. Takeaways - How AI is already embedded in the daily work of professional accountants- Ethical threats from AI, including bias, accountability, and data privacy- Applying IESBA's fundamental principles (integrity, objectivity, professional competence, confidentiality, professional behavior) when using AI - The importance of AI literacy and ethical judgment for accountants- The role of ethical leadership and organizational culture in supporting responsible AI useChapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Accountancy05:44 Key Findings from the ACCA AI Monitor Report11:59 Ethical Dilemmas Emerging from AI Use18:04 Professional Competence and AI Literacy23:50 Ethical Leadership in AI Adoption28:22 Conclusion and Key Takeaways#AIethics #ResponsibleAI #AccountingProfession #Ethics

Quantum computing is no longer science fiction. With experts predicting operational quantum computers as early as 2029, the implications for data security, encryption, and professional trust are rapidly becoming very real.In this episode of Decoding Ethics, host Jeanne Viljoen is joined by Clinton Firth, a cybersecurity and digital trust partner at PwC whose experience spans national security, intelligence, and enterprise risk, to unpack what quantum computing actually is—and why it matters now for theaccounting profession.This conversation isn’t about becoming a quantum engineer. It’s about understanding the ethical questions accountants must be ready to ask, the skills they need to develop, and why human judgment will remain essential—even in a quantum‑enabled future.If this episode made you think differently about the future of technology and ethics, follow Decoding Ethics for more conversations on how trust is built in a tech‑driven world.Takeaways- The timeline for operational quantum computers may be closer than people is as soon as 2029.- Quantum computing amplifies existing ethical.-  Confidentiality and professional competence are key ethical principles at risk.- Concentration of quantum capabilities poses significant ethical risks.- Continuous learning and curiosity are essential for accountants.- Ethical obligations endure despite technological advancements.- Human judgment is crucial in decision-making processes involving quantum technology. Chapters00:00   Introduction to Quantum Computing and Its Relevance04:38   Does Quantum Technology Create New Ethical Risks – or Just Bigger Ones? 11:24   Implications for the Accounting Profession14:24   The Skills Accountants Will Need in a Quantum World20:47   Quantum’s Double-Edged Sword22:54   The One Ethical Question Accountants Must Ask Now24:28   Why There Will Always Be a Human in the Loop

In the first episode of "Decoding Ethics: Building trust in a tech-driven world", recorded live at the inaugural IESBA Ethics & Independence Conference in Lisbon, we explore the impact of AI on audit and accounting, the importance of principle-based standards, and why trust is essential for technology to drive sustainable innovation.