The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) convened the inaugural meeting of the Global Investor Group (GIG) in Tokyo on October 20, 2025, bringing together senior leaders from the investor community, the global accountancy profession, regulators, and capital market institutions. IFAC’s GIG aims to foster open and ongoing dialogue between the profession and investors to ensure assurance remains trusted, relevant, and aligned with the evolving needs of capital markets.

The first meeting was graciously hosted by the Japanese Institute of Certified Public Accountants (JICPA) and held with the support of Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), the Japan Exchange Group (JPX)/Tokyo Stock Exchange, and under the endorsement of the Japanese Financial Services Agency (JFSA) as part of Japan Weeks 2025.

Naruhito Minami, Chair and President of the JICPA said in his welcome address: “Dialogue between investors and auditors is not just about information exchange — it is about strengthening trust, improving audit quality, and enhancing transparency. At JICPA, we believe that providing reliable sustainability information is essential for investors to evaluate a company's long-term value creation. Consequently, the roles of auditors and the scope of dialogue between investors and auditors are expanding.”

“Today’s discussions confirmed why the Global Investor Group GIG matters — the profession and investors share the same ultimate goal: trustworthy, relevant information that supports sound decision-making,” said Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer. “GIG is about creating a trusted space for real dialogue between investors and the accountancy profession — open, honest, and focused on solutions. By aligning investor needs and market priorities, we can help close the expectation gap with assurance and strengthen the trust and transparency that global markets depend on.”

This was echoed by Koji Watanabe, Director of the Listing Department, Tokyo Stock Exchange, Inc. (TSE), who added “Exchanges, regulators, auditors, and companies all share the responsibility to provide information that is accurate, timely, and useful. The Global Investor Group is a timely initiative. By working together, we can make audit reports more useful, connect sustainability information to financial statements, and build stronger partnerships in our markets. I hope today’s discussion will start a stronger partnership between investors and auditors, and help strengthen capital markets worldwide.”

The Chief Accountant, Director for International Accounting of the JFSA, Koichiro Kuramochi noted: “Hosting such international dialogue here in Japan is not only timely, but also essential to deepening mutual understanding and collaboration with global market participants. The Japan FSA places great importance on engaging with overseas investors and stakeholders in the capital markets. We are committed to strengthening these communications further, and today’s meeting marks a significant step forward in that direction. We hope that it will serve as a foundation for future collaboration between investors and the accounting profession.”

Jeanne Stampe, Lead Policy Advisor, Active Ownership at Norges Bank Investment Management concluded: “In an increasingly complex investment landscape, audit reports provide investors with critical insights into the judgments and assumptions underlying financial results. Alignment between investors and the auditor community will empower investors to engage effectively with board audit committees. The GIG can facilitate constructive dialogue on enhancing how audit findings reach investors, ultimately strengthening governance and supporting better capital allocation decisions.”

The meeting focused on how to help bridge the assurance expectation gap—the difference between what investors expect from assurance and what the profession delivers or is perceived to deliver. Through a structured roundtable held under the Chatham House Rule, participants explored critical questions about the role of assurance in enhancing trust, especially regarding:

• The connectivity between sustainability-related and financial information and their assurance,
• Audit scope, Key Audit Matters and independence,
• Engagement with audit committees, and
• Transparency in auditor communications.

The GIG’s primary objective is to serve as a trusted, informal forum where investors and assurance providers can engage openly.

In terms of next steps, input from this inaugural meeting will help shape the Terms of Reference of the GIG and its 2026 workplan, and ensure the GIG remains responsive to both investor priorities and market developments.

About IFAC
IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) today announced the appointment of Helene Agélii (Sweden) as Chair of the Small and Medium Practices Advisory Group (SMP AG), Sinéad Donovan (Ireland) as Chair of the International Panel on Accountancy Education (IPAE), and Josephine Okui Ossiya (Uganda) as Chair of the Professional Accountants in Business Advisory Group (PAIB AG). Each brings a wealth of leadership experience and proven records of advancing the global accountancy profession.

“We are delighted to welcome Sinéad, Josephine, and Helene—three outstanding members of the global accountancy community,” said Jean Bouquot, IFAC President. “Each has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing our profession and supporting the public interest, our members, and our collective mission. Their perspectives will be invaluable as we work together to shape the future of accountancy through learning, innovation, and a collective voice. I also extend my deep gratitude to the outgoing chairs for their dedicated service and impactful contributions.”

Ms. Helene Agélii, Incoming Chair, Small and Medium Practices Advisory Group

Ms. Agélii arrives with extensive experience in a variety of leadership roles in the accountancy profession. As Secretary General of the Nordic Federation of Public Accountants, she has deepened the collaborative relationships between the national accountancy bodies in the Nordic countries and, on the global stage, was a strong advocate for the development of an international auditing standard suitable for smaller and less complex entities—a need that was subsequently recognized and addressed by the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB). Ms. Agélii previously served as general counsel for the Swedish Institute for Professional Accountants (FAR), as a technical advisor to the IAASB, as a member of the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA), and in multiple capacities with IFAC, including within the SMP AG. She has applied her background in law as an expert advisor for Swedish government bodies on implementing EU audit regulations into Swedish law.

Ms. Sinéad Donovan, Incoming Chair, International Panel on Accountancy Education

Ms. Donovan brings with her a distinguished record in professional leadership and contribution to the accountancy profession. As former Chair and Partner at Grant Thornton Ireland, Ms. Donovan led the firm through transformative growth across multiple international markets. She has been significantly involved in the development of the accountancy profession in Ireland, including terms as President of Accounting Technicians Ireland and Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI), the latter coinciding with the amalgamation of CAI and CPA Ireland. Her longstanding commitment to accountancy education includes serving as Chair of the Education Board at CAI, where she championed curriculum modernization and university engagement.

Mrs. Josephine Okui Ossiya, Incoming Chair, Professional Accountants in Business Advisory Group

Mrs. Josephine Okui Ossiya brings a distinguished record of leadership in finance, capital markets, and governance across Africa. Currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Capital Markets Authority Uganda, she has held senior executive roles including Chief Finance Officer of Bujagali Energy Limited, Finance Director at Eskom Uganda, and CFO and Head of Finance at ATC Ghana. A committed leader in the accountancy profession, Mrs. Ossiya is the immediate Past President of Council of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda, a Fellow of ACCA (UK), and a founding member of the Institute of Internal Auditors Uganda. She also contributes to public service through her board role at the Bank of Uganda, where she chairs key committees, and through her work in education and entrepreneurship.

Nominated by IFAC’s member organizations, these new chairs represent some of the profession’s most respected leaders and reinforce the global reach of IFAC’s network. Together with its members, IFAC works to shape the future of accountancy through learning, innovation, and a collective voice—always with a commitment to integrity, quality, and the public interest. Membership in IFAC is not only a mark of international recognition, but also a symbol of the profession’s unity and shared responsibility as a truly global force.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), with support from the Global Public Policy Committee (GPPC), has released Opening Doors: Six Principles of Best Practice to Increase Access to Accountancy Qualifications.

The principles provide a practical framework for IFAC’s members and other professional accountancy organizations (PAOs) to welcome talent from diverse backgrounds, remove unnecessary barriers, and adapt qualification pathways—while maintaining the high standards that underpin public trust.

“The accountancy profession is enriched through talent drawn from the widest breadth possible,” said IFAC Chief Executive Officer Lee White. “I am excited by the opportunity Opening Doors creates to engage future talent in new ways and respond to the evolving workplace. Our members uphold the highest standards of integrity and quality, and together we are building a broader-based, innovative and connected profession—one that is forward-looking and equipped to sustain public trust.”

The Six Principles focus on:

• Encouraging entry from diverse educational backgrounds.
• Recognizing and valuing prior work experience.
• Removing unnecessary barriers to access.
• Offering flexible qualification formats and delivery.
• Enabling career step-off points.
• Driving global reciprocity and mobility.

Some IFAC members have already embedded these principles into their operating models, demonstrating how the principles can broaden access to the profession in practice. For others, Opening Doors likely marks a fresh approach—an opportunity to reimagine pathways into accountancy and strengthen engagement with future talent.

Adaptable to local contexts and regulatory environments, the principles reflect emerging best practices from around the world. By adopting them, PAOs can create more inclusive pathways into the profession—ensuring it remains future-ready, connected, and committed to delivering value to economies, markets, and society.

Opening Doors is also the first in a series of new IFAC initiatives that will help the profession remain competitive and reset how it engages with future talent. A panel discussion at IFAC’s upcoming IFAC Global Connect conference in November in Mexico City will also spotlight the principles and foster a dynamic discussion with IFAC members.

About IFAC
IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) in partnership with the Saudi Organization for Chartered and Professional Accountants (SOCPA), IFAC member, has convened leaders from across the Middle East and North Africa this week in Riyadh for IFAC Connect MENA 2025. The gathering brings together regulators, standard setters, professional accountancy organizations (PAOs), and stakeholders across the public and private sectors to share perspectives and identify practical ways the profession can advance integrity, innovation, and public value.  

Today, regional regulators convened to exchange perspectives on how greater collaboration can accelerate the adoption and implementation of international accountancy standards and best practices across the region. PAOs shared forward-looking insights on modernizing education pathways, creating more inclusive workplaces, and defining clear professional development and leadership tracks to attract and retain top talent, particularly women. 

On October 1, IFAC and SOCPA will engage with regional PAO leaders to build institutional capacity, sharpen relevance and credibility, and strengthen alignment with the public interest through clear value propositions and evidence-based communication. The IPSASB will also hold a roundtable to gather direct feedback from attendees on its work program. 

On October 2, the main IFAC Connect MENA program will spotlight the global forces shaping the profession: corporate reporting transformation, technology, and artificial intelligence while deepening regional commitments to solutions that foster trust, resilience, and innovation. 

Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said: “The profession is facing unprecedented transformation. By convening regulators, PAOs, and business leaders in Riyadh, we are ensuring that global priorities are addressed with regional insight and leadership, and that PAOs in MENA move swiftly and boldly to shape solutions that serve the public interest.” 

Dr. Ahmad Almeghames, CEO of SOCPA and IFAC Board Member, said: “Hosting IFAC Connect MENA reflects our commitment to advancing transparency, integrity, and innovation in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Through partnership with IFAC and our regional colleagues, we are ensuring the profession plays a central role in supporting both national and global priorities.” 

IFAC Connect MENA follows a gathering in Nairobi this year and in Singapore, Bogotá, and Dubai in 2024. Later this year, the series will continue with IFAC Connect Global in Mexico City and IFAC Connect Asia-Pacific in Jakarta.

About IFAC 
IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global. 

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition. 

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest. 

About SOCPA 
The Saudi Organization for Chartered and Professional Accountants (SOCPA) is Saudi Arabia’s leading professional accountancy body, committed to advancing professional competence, transparency, and accountability, while supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. 

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) warmly welcomes the appointment of Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger as Chair of the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB) and extends its appreciation to Ian Carruthers, for his 10 years of service as Chair to the IPSASB. Thomas was selected through a rigorous selection process led by the Independent Search Committee under the oversight of the Public Interest Committee. The Search Committee submitted its recommendation to the Public Interest Committee for review, and the IFAC Board approved the selection. 

Thomas will lead the IPSASB in advancing high-quality International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS Standards) and Sustainability Reporting Standards (IPSASB SRS Standards) and advocating for their use, which support transparency, accountability, and decision-making in governments and public sector entities worldwide. Thomas has over 30 years of experience in public sector accounting and financial management. 

Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said: “I thank Ian Carruthers for his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to improving public sector financial reporting across the globe. We are delighted to welcome Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger as the next Chair of the IPSASB. His deep expertise and long-standing commitment to the public interest will ensure the IPSASB continues to meet the evolving needs of governments, citizens, and the global accountancy profession.”  

Jon Blondal, co-chair of the Public Interest Committee, said: 
“The Public Interest Committee welcomes the appointment of Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger as the next Chair of the IPSASB. We extend our thanks to Vinod Rai, Search Committee Chair, its members, and IFAC leadership for their close cooperation and commitment throughout the process. The selection of Thomas follows a rigorous and transparent process that reflects public interest.” 

Incoming IPSASB Chair Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger said: 
“It is an immense honor to be selected as the next IPSASB Chair. For many years, I have been deeply passionate about the Board’s tremendous contribution to sound public financial management globally. I am fully committed to building on the strong foundation established by the Board to further strengthen transparency, accountability, and trust in public sector reporting worldwide. On a personal note, I look forward to working with Board members, the staff team, and all relevant stakeholder groups across the globe. I am driven by the conviction that our work is vital to ensuring governments have the tools they need to achieve sustainable development and sound financial management.”  

IFAC looks forward to its continuing support of the IPSASB under the leadership of Thomas Müller-Marqués Berger.  

About IFAC   

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.      

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.      

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.      

About the Public Interest Committee 
The governance and standard-setting activities of the IPSASB are overseen by the Public Interest Committee (PIC), to ensure that they follow due process and reflect the public interest. The PIC is comprised of individuals with expertise in public sector or financial reporting, and professional engagement in organizations that have an interest in promoting high-quality and internationally comparable financial information. 

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) warmly welcomes the appointment of Jennifer Lopez as the new Chief Executive of the Confederation of Asian and Pacific Accountants (CAPA).

Jennifer brings to CAPA a proven record of transformative and innovative leadership, most recently demonstrated during her tenure as Executive Director at the British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce. Her vision, strategic acumen, and commitment to collaboration come at a pivotal time for the profession. As IFAC strengthens its approach to regional engagement, Jennifer’s appointment marks an important step to further elevate collaboration between IFAC and CAPA, supporting the advancement of the accountancy profession both regionally and globally.

Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are delighted to welcome Jennifer Lopez into her new role at CAPA. Jennifer’s track record of innovation and strategic leadership will bring fresh energy and ideas to CAPA’s important mission. Her appointment comes at a time when our profession is navigating profound transformations—driven by sustainability, powered by technology, and shaped by the urgent need to attract, develop, and retain talent.

I am excited for the opportunities ahead as we work closely with Jennifer and the CAPA team to strengthen our collective impact for the benefit of the global profession and the public interest."

At the same time, IFAC expresses its deep gratitude to Brian Blood, who is stepping down after a remarkable tenure as CAPA’s Chief Executive Officer. "Brian has been a tireless champion for the profession in the Asia-Pacific region.

"Under his leadership, CAPA has become a true force—supporting PAOs through the Maturity Model, championing SMPs and Accounting Technicians, and producing vital resources on public sector reporting, ethics, and quality assurance. Brian has also been a generous advisor and friend to IFAC—always thoughtful and committed,” said Mr White. 

With Jennifer’s leadership and Brian’s enduring legacy, CAPA is well positioned to continue driving impact for its members and for the global profession.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The PAO Strategy Planning Toolkit directly supports our Strategy and Member Value Proposition helps PAOs succeed in delivering on their mandates, strengthening governance, and building relevance. Whether your PAO is navigating
regulatory reform, digital transformation, or evolving public expectations, a clear and actionable strategy is essential.

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) is excited to announce that the World Congress of Accountants (WCOA) will be held November 17–20, 2026, in Seoul, South Korea. The Korean Institute of Certified Public Accountants (KICPA) and IFAC will serve as joint hosts, working closely to welcome professional accountants from around the world for the event.

Recognized as a preeminent event for the profession, WCOA brings together Professional Accountancy Organization (PAO) representatives from over 100 countries to strengthen the global accountancy community by sharing experiences, learning and deepening relationships across the profession.  

WCOA 2026 marks the launch of a new biennial format, wherein the event will be held every two years. All accountants, as well as interested members of the public, are invited to participate in WCOA virtually to hear about how the profession is positioning itself for the future. In-person participation will be invite-only and will bring together some of the most experienced and visionary leaders in our field. WCOA will continue to be scheduled alongside IFAC Council meetings.

In-person participants of WCOA 2026 will have the opportunity to join in plenary sessions, panel discussions, and hear from distinguished subject-matter experts. The event will include opportunities to attend networking events, in order to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals from various sectors. In-person WCOA 2026 attendees will be comprised of IFAC PAO leadership (staff and volunteers), professional services firms, standard-setters, regulators and other government officials, representatives of multilateral and development agencies, and the business and investor communities. Select sessions will be livestreamed so that virtual attendees are included in these important conversations.    

 Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said:

"Seoul is a vibrant, innovative, and truly international city—an ideal host for WCOA 2026. At this Congress, the importance of a resilient, adaptable, and global accountancy profession will be front and center. We are honored to partner with our esteemed member, KICPA, to bring the world together here—leaders, colleagues, and friends united by our shared commitment to the public interest. The value of a strong, global profession has never been more pronounced, nor more needed.

We look forward to creating a Congress where every moment matters—whether on stage in a plenary or in a simple conversation between two new acquaintances—each connection will help shape the future of our profession. And of course, we will be engaging deeply on the drivers reshaping that future: sustainability, AI, and how we attract and empower the next generation of talent."

Mr. Woon-Youl Choi, KICPA President said:

“We are delighted that Seoul has been selected as the host city for WCOA 2026. I am confident that WCOA 2026 will serve as a meaningful platform not only to address priorities in accounting, auditing, and sustainability, but also to explore the challenges and opportunities of AI-enabled digital innovation.

Over the years, Korea has consistently strengthened transparency and trust amid a rapidly evolving domestic and global environment. Through this Congress, we look forward to sharing our experience with the global community while co-creating new value for future generations.

KICPA will work closely with IFAC—from program design through on-site delivery—to ensure a high-quality and rewarding experience for all participants. We also invite every participant to experience Seoul’s vibrant culture and dynamic innovation ecosystem during the Congress and to leave with forward-looking insights.”

IFAC looks forward to working with KICPA to deliver a world-class event in November 2026. Subscribe to IFAC newsletters and follow us on LinkedIn for more announcements in the coming months. For more information on WCOA 2026, please email WCOA@IFAC.org.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.     

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.     

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.     

About KICPA

The Korean Institute of Certified Public Accountants (KICPA), established in 1954 under the Certified Public Accountants Act, is the statutory professional body representing Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Korea. Guided by the principle that sound accounting makes economic fundamentals sound, KICPA works to build trust and transparency in Korea's financial markets. Through setting professional standards, ensuring ethical conduct, and supporting continuous professional development, KICPA enables CPAs to serve the public interest, promote sound corporate governance, and contribute to Korea's economic development. KICPA is a member of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), the global home for the accountancy profession dedicated to serving the public interest.

Zaakirah Mohamed is a Chartered Accountant and Registered Auditor, currently serving as an Audit Inspector with the South African Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA). In this role, Zaakirah is a vital part of the Audit Development Program (ADP), where she specializes in monitoring the environments at audit firm that are developing future Registered Auditors to ensure they are fit for purpose by evaluating firms’ compliance with the current quality standards.

Zaakirah holds a Bachelor of Accounting Sciences degree from Wits University, where she was also a member of the astute Golden Key Members and brings over a decade of experience in the auditing profession.

Zaakirah completed her articles at a Big Four firm, gaining expertise in the Mining and Natural Resources industry as well as specializing in Learning and Development, with a focus on both technical and interpersonal skills. She has worked in and out of practise, spending 2 years in Commerce as a Financial Manager in the Automotive industry, however, always finds her way back to the world of Auditing. Her career spans both practical and theoretical aspects of auditing, consistently demonstrating a commitment to excellence and a passion for the field.

Zaakirah’s work focuses on supporting firms in aligning their quality systems and structures with established standards and regulations, ensuring compliance and promoting best practices. She has extensive experience in both education and auditing, with her role at the IRBA allowing her to integrate these areas to strengthen the pipeline of auditors entering the profession.