Question

250 Words

Discuss how the IMA's Code of Ethics affects the ethical behavior of accountants. Which of the four standards found in the Code do you think is the hardest to comply with and why?

Answer 1

1. Competence

• Maintain an appropriate level of professional expertise by continually developing knowledge and skills.
• Perform professional duties in accordance with relevant laws, regulations, and technical standards.
• Provide decision support information and recommendations that are accurate, clear, concise, and timely.
• Recognize and communicate professional limitations or other constraints that would preclude responsible judgment or successful performance of an activity.

2. Confidentiality

• Keep information confidential except when disclosure is authorized or legally required.
• Inform all relevant parties regarding appropriate use of confidential information. Monitor subordinates' activities to ensure compliance.
• Refrain from using confidential information for unethical or illegal advantage.

3. Integrity

• Mitigate actual conflicts of interest; regularly communicate with business associates to avoid apparent conflicts of interest. Advise all parties of any potential conflicts.
• Refrain from engaging in any conduct that would prejudice carrying out duties ethically.
• Abstain from engaging in or supporting any activity that might discredit the profession.

4. Credibility

• Communicate information fairly and objectively.
• Disclose all relevant information that could reasonably be expected to influence an intended user's understanding of the reports, analyses, or recommendations.
• Disclose delays or deficiencies in information, timeliness, processing, or internal controls in conformance with organization policy and/or applicable law