Explore every episode of the podcast Accountancy Insights
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| How can business overcome its biggest challenges – live at ICAEW Conference | 20 oct. 2026 | 00:47:12 | |
In this episode, recorded from ICAEW’s Annual Conference, we speak to the biggest speakers from across the day about the challenges facing businesses in a variety of sectors, and what can be done about them. From the economy to cybercrime and growing in unpredictable environments, we cover a lot of ground. Links
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| Behind the Numbers: Modernising Corporate Reporting – the big questions | 13 oct. 2026 | 00:32:24 | |
In this special bonus episode, we hear exclusively from the Department for Business, Innovation Science and Trade (BIST) on the government’s plans for corporate reporting, the Modernising Corporate Reporting (MCR) agenda. It’s a potentially huge change and the government wants to implement it quickly, so now is the time to address its implications. Links
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| The Audit Report: What does Modernising Corporate Reporting mean for auditors? | 06 oct. 2026 | 00:28:35 | |
On the first ever episode of The Audit Report – the podcast that looks at the factors shaping modern audit – we’re discussing the long-awaited consultation on Modernising Corporate Reporting. Links
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| Accountancy Insights: Is your identity at risk? | 06 oct. 2026 | 00:36:52 | |
Cyber criminals spend much of their time working on identity theft. If you hold a responsible position in your organisation, they might very well be working on you. Or worse – they might be lurking in your smart coffee machine. Links
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| Behind the Numbers: Healey's Budget options are narrowing | 10 sept. 2026 | 00:30:25 | |
On 7 September, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey delivered a speech setting out his goals for the Budget, amid twitchiness in the bond markets. What did he hope to achieve, and what does it tell us about the Budget in October? We discuss the speech, the factors that are likely to shape the Budget, and what options the Chancellor has to encourage growth, balance tax and spend, and calm the markets. Transcript You can read the full transcript of this episode here -https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/john-healeys-pre-budget-speech-what-does-it-tell-us/transcript Links
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| Accountancy Insights: How did MTD go? The dangers of digital fraud | 27 août 2026 | 00:35:50 | |
In this episode, we take a look at the government’s Fraud in the Digital Age report: what does it tell us about trends and what can businesses do to protect themselves? And with the first submissions deadline for Income Tax under the new Making Tax Digital system just passed - how did it go? We discuss the lessons learned for the next submission. Links
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| How to plan for a Russian test of NATO | 19 août 2026 | 00:32:55 | |
For Business, faraway wars feel way closer than they used to. In the current volatile geopolitical environment, businesses need to consider planning for these events. So in this episode, we run through such an exercise: what if Russia tests NATO resolve by firing on Poland and amassing troops near the region? We explore this hypothetical but increasingly plausible scenario in this episode. Links
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| EY’s backing AI agents; and a new form of insider trading | 04 août 2026 | 00:34:04 | |
In this episode, EY UK Digital Assurance Leader Richard Harrison joins us to talk about how the firm is using AI agents in audit. How do they divide tasks between people and tech? And how are they understanding and mitigating risk? Links
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Producer: Natalie Chisholm Series Lead: Mark Rowland Episode first published: 4 August Podcast recorded: 27 July
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| Behind the Numbers: Is there really a growing AI bubble? | 14 juil. 2026 | 00:29:11 | |
The question of whether an ‘AI bubble’ is going to burst doesn’t seem to be going away. There’s a compelling case to be made on both sides of the argument, with the growing demand for AI tools, and the huge amount of money and resources needed to deliver on that demand. So what are the actual risks of an AI bubble, and what would that mean for the tools that businesses and firms are investing in right now? We interrogate the various indicators of whether there might be a bubble or not, and discuss the considerations and failsafes that businesses should consider when adopting AI software. Links Data centre planning policy - https://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/CBP-10315/CBP-10315.pdf Gas use in data centres - https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/dramatic-increase-in-data-centre-developers-wanting-gas-grid-connections-21-04-2026/ Water use for data centres - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/688cb407dc6688ed50878367/Water_use_in_data_centre_and_AI_report.pdf AI company IPOs - https://www.blackrock.com/us/financial-professionals/insights/mega-ai-ipos-and-index-inclusion Increasing demand for AI – Forbes - https://www.forbes.com/advisor/uk/business/software/uk-artificial-intelligence-ai-statistics/ AI boom leaves data centre demand beyond supply - https://datacentrenews.uk/story/ai-boom-to-leave-data-centre-demand-far-above-supply ICAEW CPD record - https://my.icaew.com/cpdrecord Host Guests Producer Series Lead Episode first published: 15 July | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Looking ahead: HMRC’s digital moves and impacts of Iran war | 01 juil. 2026 | 00:29:05 | |
We’ll have a new PM soon, while the war in the Middle East rages on. Does this mean more uncertainty for businesses in the second half of 2026? ICAEW’s Chief Economist tries to predict what might happen next. Links
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| Behind the Numbers: When is CEO pay a problem? | 16 juin 2026 | 00:35:20 | |
Last year CEO pay rose 20 times faster than workers’ pay, according to new research from Oxfam and the International Trade Union Confederation. At the most extreme end of that pay scale, investors approved an executive package for Elon Musk worth a potential $1tn.
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| Accountancy Insights: Understanding tokenisation plans; rethinking the audit report | 02 juin 2026 | 00:23:50 | |
The government has plans to tokenise financial markets. What exactly is tokenisation? What might it look like in practice and what are the big questions about it that still need answering? Polly Tsang, ICAEW’s Senior Financial Services Regulatory Manager, explains.
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| Behind the Numbers: Are you taking fraud seriously enough? | 19 mai 2026 | 00:29:10 | |
Fraud is the largest reported crime in England and Wales, and the UK government wants to bring numbers down. With failure to prevent fraud now an offence, there is some onus on business to address the issue. But are enough businesses taking it seriously?
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| Accountancy Insights: Can businesses mitigate rising energy prices? Plus AI in audit, UK GAAP | 05 mai 2026 | 00:32:32 | |
Everyone’s talking about energy costs at the moment. Greenfields Energy Group’s co-founder LIAM CONWAY walks us through the energy impacts of the Iran War and outlines the best ways for businesses to protect themselves from global energy shocks.
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| Behind the Numbers: Is AI accelerating the brain drain? | 13 avr. 2026 | 00:34:46 | |
AI is already having an impact on the make-up of audit teams and there’s some evidence it’s already reducing the number of junior roles. But it’s all still new, and developing all of the time. What about the medium and longer term effects? How might it change training and career paths and will it ultimately boost or diminish the appeal of a career in accountancy? ICAEW: Why we still need junior accountants in the age of AI - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2026/apr-2026/why-we-still-need-junior-accountants-and-how-their-role-might-change Is There a Brain Drain in Auditing? - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/402277496_Modeling_the_Consequences_of_the_Auditors'_Leaving_the_Public_Accounting_Profession_Is_There_a_Brain_Drain_in_Auditing ICAEW: How to stop accountancy's brain drain - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/how-to-stop-accountancys-brain-drain/transcript ICAEW: How is AI transforming roles in industry? - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2026/apr-2026/how-is-ai-transforming-roles-in-industry ICAEW podcasts - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast
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| Accountancy Insights: What does the Iran conflict really mean for British Business? | 31 mars 2026 | 00:36:04 | |
We’ve already seen immediate spikes and fluctuations in the oil price and the wider financial and commodity markets. But how will the UK economy be affected in the months to come and how heavy a price will British Business pay? RSM Chief Economist Tom Pugh shares his thoughts. Oil prices to stay elevated across Iran War scenarios - https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/oil-prices-stay-elevated-across-iran-war-scenarios-2026-03-27/ Late payments consultation response - https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/late-payments-tackling-poor-payment-practices/outcome/late-payment-consultation-time-to-pay-up-government-response-web-version Government AI assurance roadmap - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/trusted-third-party-ai-assurance-roadmap/trusted-third-party-ai-assurance-roadmap Ensuring responsible AI development - https://www.techuk.org/resource/ensuring-responsible-ai-development-let-s-talk-about-ai-assurance.html Guests
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| Behind the Numbers: UK SRS – what’s in it, and the FCA consultation | 10 mars 2026 | 00:23:13 | |
UK Sustainability Reporting Standards (UK SRS) are bringing sustainability reporting in line with international standards. So who will be mandated to use them and how will they apply in practice? The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is consulting on this at the moment. One of the people behind the international standards joins us and ICAEW’s Sustainability Reporting and Assurance Director to discuss the implications of this. Links UK Sustainability Reporting Standards - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/uk-sustainability-reporting-standards FCA Consultation - https://www.fca.org.uk/publications/consultation-papers/cp26-5-sustainability-disclosures IFRS Sustainability Disclosures navigator - https://www.ifrs.org/issued-standards/ifrs-sustainability-standards-navigator/ ICAEW Government publishes UK SRS - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2026/feb-2026/government-publishes-uk-sustainability-reporting-standards Host Philippa Lamb Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm Series Lead Mark Rowland Episode first published: 10 March | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Corporate reporting is changing, MTD on the way | 04 mars 2026 | 00:17:52 | |
There’s just one month to go till Making Tax Digital kicks in for Income Tax; we take a look at how the transition will go. There’s also a lot happening in corporate reporting at the moment – Sally Baker brings us up to speed. Links
Host Philippa Lamb Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm Series Lead Mark Rowland Episode first published: 4 March Podcast recorded: 23 and 25 February | |||
| Behind the Numbers: How to get to the c-suite | 10 févr. 2026 | 00:39:25 | |
This episode looks at routes to the C-suite, and the traits, skills and capabilities you’ll need to get you there. Accountants are highly represented in the C-suite, with one in four CEOs holding the qualification according to research by Robert Half. Transcript Read the full transcript of this episode here - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/how-to-get-to-the-c-suite/transcript ICAEW: Soft skills for leaders (CPD) - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/jul-2025/free-cpd-soft-skills-for-leaders ICAEW: Traits of modern CFOs - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2024/jul-2024/what-traits-make-up-the-modern-cfo ICAEW: Eight lessons from my first year as CFO - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2026/feb-2026/eight-lessons-from-my-first-year-as-a-cfo ICAEW: How to deal with team conflict - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2026/jan-2026/management-skills-how-to-deal-with-team-conflict Host Philippa Lamb Guests
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| Accountancy Insights: How to use AI in tax ethically, and group audit best practice | 02 févr. 2026 | 00:18:48 | |
This episode covers AI and tax work and ISA 600 on group audits, following the release of two pieces of guidance on the topics. With several tax cases in which AI has been used and provided incorrect or misleading information, we outline how to apply the five fundamental ethical principles to AI use. ISA 600 on group audits was revised, effective for audits of financial statements for periods commencing on or after 15 December 2023. These changes are quite wide ranging, particularly when it comes to the treatment of component auditors. We go through the details. Links: ICAEW: Professional conduct in relation to taxation (PCRT) - https://www.icaew.com/technical/tax/working-in-tax/pcrt ICAEW: Auditing groups of companies - https://www.icaew.com/technical/audit-and-assurance/audit/group-audit HMRC v Gunnarsson - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/688240632b6fd60b7c16100d/HMRC_v_Gunnarsson_final_decision.pdf ICAEW: PCRT Guidance on ethical use of AI - https://www.icaew.com/technical/tax/working-in-tax/pcrt/topical-guidance-application-of-pcrt-to-ethical-use-of-artificial-intelligence-tools ICAEW: Use of AI criticised in tax case - https://www.icaew.com/insights/tax-news/2025/aug-2025/use-of-ai-criticised-in-tax-case ICAEW: Group auditing: nine key changes for auditors - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2026/jan-2026/group-auditing-nine-key-changes-for-auditors Host Philippa Lamb Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 3 February 2026 Podcast recorded: 28 January 2026 | |||
| Behind the Numbers: How the Celsius scandal is reshaping Crypto regulation | 12 janv. 2026 | 00:29:54 | |
Celsius network claimed to be a safe place to trade digital currencies and assets. In reality, it was using customers’ money for its own ends. In the first Behind the Numbers of the New Year, we explore the collapse of digital currency platform Celsius network, the scandal that followed, and its lasting impact on crypto asset regulation, particularly custody. Since that scandal, international regulators including the Financial Conduct Authority have been looking at custody rules and wider regulation around digital assets. But are they on the right track? Transcript Read the full transcript of this episode here - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/how-the-celsius-scandal-is-reshaping-crypto-regulation/transcript Links Founder of Celsius sentenced to 12 years for fraud - https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/pr/founder-celsius-sentenced-12-years-fraud-and-market-manipulation Celsius investigation: all the red flags - https://fortune.com/2023/02/07/celsius-network-investigation-red-flags/ FCA Crypto Roadmap - https://www.fca.org.uk/publication/documents/crypto-roadmap.pdf FCA: Stablecoin issuance and Cryptoasset Custody proposals - https://www.fca.org.uk/publications/consultation-papers/cp25-14-stablecoin-issuance-cryptoasset-custody ICAEW: The Future of crypto regulation: key considerations - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/nov-2025/the-future-of-crypto-regulation-key-considerations Host Philippa Lamb Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 12 January 2026 Podcast recorded: 16 December 2025 | |||
| Behind the Numbers: A World Cup bump, an AI slump? 2026 predictions | 30 déc. 2025 | 00:31:28 | |
In the first episode of 2026, our usual team of soothsayers David Williamson, Frances Haque and Iain Wright review the events of the past 12 months, and look ahead to what we might expect in the coming year. Read the full transcript of this episode - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/a-world-cup-bump-an-ai-slump-2026-predictions/transcript Links ICAEW: The 2025 predictions episode - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/accountancy-insights/trump-tariffs-and-eu-turmoil-2025-predictions ICAEW: UK Business Confidence Monitor - https://www.icaew.com/technical/economy/business-confidence-monitor ‘The AI bubble will burst’ - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0m7h23s Host Philippa Lamb Guests
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| Behind the Numbers: Best of 2025 | 17 déc. 2025 | 00:17:51 | |
With Christmas round the corner, we’ve put together a special best of episode of Behind the Numbers, featuring some of the most memorable conversations from throughout the year. From discussions of Trump and tariffs on our 100th episode to one of our favourite conversations on the history of money, it’s an excellent way to remind yourself of what went on this year – or catch up on what you’ve missed. Links: ICAEW: Rebuilding trust in volatile times - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/rebuilding-trust-in-volatile-times ICAEW: Appraising Starmer’s Labour - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/appraising-starmers-labour ICAEW: How to bounce back from a cyber attack - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/how-to-bounce-back-from-a-cyber-attack ICAEW: Dealing with uncertainty and mental health - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/dealing-with-uncertainty-and-mental-health ICAEW: Can history teach us anything about digital money? - https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/can-history-teach-us-anything-about-digital-money Host Philippa Lamb Clips featuring
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Episode first published: 18 December Podcast recorded: 7 November 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Budget 25: where’s the growth? | 28 nov. 2025 | 00:28:46 | |
This episode is all about the Budget. What was in it? What are the implications? Was there anything positive to glean from it? Stepping in for Philippa Lamb on this episode, Guy Ruddle speaks to the usual economic dream team of Santander Chief Economist Frances Haque, David Williamson, who joins us from Portcullis House, and Iain Wright, ICAEW’s Chief Policy and Communications Officer. They share their views on the early publication of the OBR’s projections, the constant leaking ahead of the Budget, the economic implications of the measures included within it, and who it was actually for. Time codes 01’53”: The OBR’s leaked report 05’48”: The content of the Budget and its implications 10’07”: The lack of growth measures Links
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Episode first published: 1 December 2025 Podcast recorded: 27 November 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: How should audit firms use AI? | 11 nov. 2025 | 00:21:45 | |
This episode focuses on the integration of AI in audit processes, emphasising the need for practical guidance from the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) to build industry confidence, especially with smaller firms. The conversation highlighted the importance of human oversight, the role of third-party technology providers, the challenges of explainability and data security, and the need for clear communication with clients. Philippa Lamb is joined by Ramana McConnon, Head of Assurance Technology at the FRC, Jon Morris, Director of Audit and Professional Standards for Grant Thornton, and Martin Brown, Gen AI lead in Deloitte’s Audit technical team. Time codes
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Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 11 November 2025 Podcast recorded: 7 November 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: LLMs and spreadsheets, Companies House IDV, and the OBR’s role | 28 oct. 2025 | 00:34:11 | |
In this episode, we’re exploring just how useful Large Language Models (LLMs) are when it comes to spreadsheets; what needs to happen by 18 November when it comes to Companies House ID verification; and how the OBR comes to its conclusions. Host Philippa Lamb is joined by Simon Thorne, Senior Lecturer in Computer Science, Cardiff Metropolitan University, to talk about his research into LLMs' effectiveness when it comes to spotting errors in spreadsheets, with some clear winners and losers from the process. Next, Mike Miller, ICAEW’s Economic Crime Manager, gives an update on Companies House ID verification and what Directors and accounting firms have to do to prepare. Finally, Martin Wheatcroft, Advisor on public finances for ICAEW, explains the role and methodology of the OBR. Time codes: Spreadsheets and AI – 01’06” Companies House ID Verification – 13’28” How the OBR works – 23’14” Transcript You can read a full transcript of the episode here: https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/oct-2025/the-best-and-worst-genais-for-spreadsheets Links: ICAEW: The best and worst gen AIs for spreadsheets - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/oct-2025/the-best-and-worst-genais-for-spreadsheets Simon Thorne’s study on LLMs and spreadsheets - https://arxiv.org/abs/2506.17330 ICAEW: Authorised corporate service providers (ACSP) and ID verification - https://www.icaew.com/regulation/aml-supervision/aml-resources/acsp-and-id-verification ICAEW: ID verification is coming – everything directors need to know - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/oct-2025/co-house-id-changes-what-directors-need-to-know ICAEW: ID verification is coming – everything accounting firms need to know - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/oct-2025/co-house-id-changes-what-accountants-need-to-know ICAEW: Companies House: who needs to be an ACSP and when should they register? - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/aug-2025/companies-house-who-needs-to-be-an-acsp-and-when-should-they-register UK productivity downgraded - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0rpve82jxvo Rachel Reeves v the OBR: chancellor aims to loosen the watchdog’s grip - https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/oct/11/rachel-reeves-v-the-obr-chancellor-aims-to-loosen-the-watchdogs-grip Labour fury at OBR is understandable but misplaced - https://www.ft.com/content/f1b53cb4-ba83-4b0a-a8f3-65ffab93b299 New Economics Foundation – A democratic fiscal framework - https://neweconomics.org/2025/08/a-democratic-fiscal-framework Host Philippa Lamb Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 28 October 2025 Podcast recorded: 22nd October 2025 All views expressed on this podcast are those of the contributors and don’t necessarily reflect those of ICAEW or its members. | |||
| Behind the Numbers: How to bounce back from a cyber attack | 14 oct. 2025 | 00:32:29 | |
In this episode, we discuss how prepared organisations really are for cyber attacks, what to do if and when your business is affected, and how to manage the communications challenges. We have a great case study from a company that suffered a cyber attack, with plenty of lessons about how to mitigate the impact on customers and return quickly to business as usual. Philippa Lamb is joined by Peter Davenport, Crisis Communications Specialist, Definition Group; Michael Hoare, Director, Kekst CNC; Neil Hare-Brown, Founder, Storm Guidance; and Nadeem Raza, CEO, Microlise. Time Codes
Transcript: You can read the full transcript of this episode here: https://www.icaew.com/insights/podcast/behind-the-numbers/how-to-bounce-back-from-a-cyber-attack/transcript Links ICAEW: Cyber Security awareness -https://www.icaew.com/technical/technology/cyber-security/cybercrime-awareness-month ICAEW: Four cyber security lessons from M&S and other breaches - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/oct-2025/four-cyber-security-lessons-from-mands-and-other-breaches Host Philippa Lamb Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 14 October 2025 Podcast recorded: 7 October 2025 | |||
| Behind the Numbers: Dealing with uncertainty, and mental health | 06 oct. 2025 | 00:30:06 | |
We’re all navigating uncertainty right now. How can accountants manage it professionally and personally? Riaz Shah OBE, former EY Partner and Professor of Practice at Hult International Business School, breaks down the biggest factors affecting the profession at the moment, and how it might shape the role and future of accountants. Then Paul Guess, Case Management Officer for accountants’ support charity CABA, talks about the mental toll that the current environment is taking on professionals, and the kind of support that they can expect to receive. Links:
Host Philippa Lamb Guests Riaz Shah OBE, Professor of Practice, Hult International Business School Paul Guess, Case Management Officer, CABA Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 8 October 2025 Podcast recorded: 25 September 2025 | |||
| Behind the Numbers: Should we compensate whistleblowers? | 25 sept. 2025 | 00:31:00 | |
Whistleblowing is a vital process but often fraught with far more risk and emotional upheaval than it should be. In Western Europe, 43% of all occupational fraud cases come to light thanks to whistleblowers. And it’s not just fraud: cases from poor health-and-safety practices to bad team management have all been righted thanks to people speaking out. Although many whistleblowing cases do result in bad practice being stopped and workplaces improved, some whistleblowers have been victimised or forced out of their jobs. In the UK, the new Failure to Prevent Fraud offence will mandate large employers to put clear whistleblowing policies in place, and both the Serious Fraud Office and HMRC are looking at schemes to incentivise whistleblowing. Andrew Pepper-Parsons, Director of Policy and Communications at whistleblowing charity Protect, and Brendan Weekes, Associate Director at accountancy firm, S&W, join our host Philippa Lamb to discuss the topic, why a significant minority of whistleblowers don’t get the requisite protection and what the forthcoming regulation and potential SFO and HMRC schemes will mean for UK business. They also both discuss some best practice case studies from organisations that are doing a good job of encouraging people to speak up when they see something that’s not right. This includes the Wellcome Trust’s excellently named scheme “The Only Way is Ethics”. Links
Host Philippa Lamb Guests ● Andrew Pepper-Parsons, Director of Policy and Communications, Protect ● Brendan Weekes, Associate Director, S&W Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 25 September 2025 Podcast recorded: 12 September 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Kemi Badenoch on growth and the profession | 17 sept. 2025 | 00:23:20 | |
In this special episode of Accountancy Insights, we bring you a timely interview of Kemi Badenoch by ICAEW’s Chief Executive Alan Vallance who sat down with her after a speech she gave at Chartered Accountants’ Hall. Badenoch talked about tackling perennial long-term problems like productivity and smarter regulation. She spoke with feeling about her frustration when, as Business Secretary in the previous Conservative government, she would meet with business leaders who showed her how debilitating regulation could be for business if the consequences of new laws are not thought through properly. Drawing on her tech background, she also disagreed with her former colleague Jeremy Hunt that AI would replace accountants, saying “I don’t think accountants have anything to worry about.” ICAEW’s Chief Policy and Communications Officer Iain Wright then joins our host Philippa Lamb to discuss Badenoch’s proposals and how it’s further evidence of ICAEW’s unique position as a leading voice for business. Links ICAEW: More on Kemi Badenoch’s speech - https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/sep-2025/kemi-badenoch-speaks-at-icaew-we-need-to-take-risks ICAEW Policy: How the government can deliver growth - https://www.icaew.com/about-icaew/regulation-and-the-public-interest/policy/how-the-government-can-deliver-growth Host Philippa Lamb Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 18 September 2025 Podcast recorded: 12 September 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Companies House update, scaling up smartly and the Next Generation ACA | 10 sept. 2025 | 00:34:09 | |
Accountancy Insights explores the month’s top stories in the profession. In this episode, we discuss the introduction of four statutory instruments to enforce Companies House reform, as well as the common mistakes to avoid when scaling up a business. We also cover the introduction and content of the Next Generation ACA qualification. Philippa Lamb is joined by Mike Miller, ICAEW Economic Crime Manager; Anne Allibone, fractional CFO and commercial advisor; and Shaun Robertson, ICAEW Director of Education and Qualifications. Time codes 00:30 Companies House update 11:00 Scaling up smartly 21:54 The Next Generation ACA
Links ICAEW: Four draft instruments brought in to enforce Companies House reform: https://www.icaew.com/insights/viewpoints-on-the-news/2025/jul-2025/four-draft-instruments-brought-in-to-enforce-companies-house-reform ICAEW: How to grow hub: https://www.icaew.com/technical/business/how-to-grow ICAEW: Next Generation ACA hub: https://www.icaew.com/learning-and-development/aca/next-generation-aca
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Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 11 September 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Can history teach us anything about digital money? | 19 août 2025 | 00:33:47 | |
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we explore what the history of money can tell us about its future. Currency has been evolving for thousands of years, but the pace of change has now escalated with the introduction of online banking and digital currencies. We discuss the parallels between modern and historical advances in currency, and key lessons as central banks look to introduce their own digital currencies. Host Philippa Lamb is joined by Polly Tsang, Senior Financial Services Regulatory Manager at ICAEW; and Dr Tony Moore, Lecturer in Finance at Henley Business School. Links ICAEW Technology hub: https://www.icaew.com/technical/technology ICAEW Financial Services Faculty: https://www.icaew.com/technical/financial-services Host Philippa Lamb Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 20 August 2025 Podcast recorded: 13 August 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Bonus episode - how to tackle late payments | 12 août 2025 | 00:23:16 | |
ICAEW’s Iain Wright hosts a conversation with Emma Jones CBE, the government’s newly appointed Small Business Commissioner, in this special episode of Accountancy Insights.
Jones discusses the Small Business Plan, launched on 30 July, which introduces new measures to tackle late payments. Estimates place the cost of late payments to the UK economy at £11bn per year as well as contributing to the closure of 38 businesses each day. Upcoming legislation will also reduce maximum payment terms from 60 to 45 days .
She also shares learnings from a career spent in small business. Jones founded and exited her first business at the age of 27 and then went on to establish both Enterprise Nation and StartUp Britain to support small and young businesses across the country. She has also previously served as SME Representative for the Crown Commercial Service.
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Host Iain Wright, Chief Policy and Communications Officer, ICAEW
Guest Emma Jones CBE, Small Business Commissioner
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 12 August 2025 Podcast recorded: 7 August 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Inside the Post Office Inquiry and new mid-tier research | 24 juil. 2025 | 00:34:12 | |
In this episode, we discuss the findings of the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry’s first report, including lessons for other companies around culture and values. We also explore ICAEW’s latest research into mid-tier practices, covering the key drivers of growth and the biggest challenges ahead.
Philippa Lamb is joined in the studio by Peter van Veen, ICAEW Director of Corporate Governance and Stewardship; and Sarah Ghaffari, ICAEW Director of Communities, Business and Practice.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 22 July 2025 Podcast recorded: 15 July 2025 | |||
| Behind the numbers: Appraising Starmer’s Labour | 14 juil. 2025 | 00:42:06 | |
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the hits and misses of the Labour government’s first year in power.
While there have been some clear wins over the past 12 months, particularly on the international stage, domestic politics have felt far less controlled. Our panel evaluates the previous year, as well as suggesting where the government goes from here as it enters its second year.
Host Philippa Lamb is joined by Iain Wright, ICAEW’s Chief Policy and Communications Officer; Frances Haque, Santander UK’s Chief Economist; and David Williamson, Chief Political Commentator at the Daily Express.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 14 July 2025 Podcast recorded: 7 July 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Inside the Industrial Strategy and navigating VAT reform | 08 juil. 2025 | 00:37:48 | |
In this episode, we discuss the government’s new Industrial Strategy and, in particular, its sector plan for professional and business services with Iain Wright, ICAEW Chief Policy and Communications Officer. Iain is Chair of the Professional and Business Services Council, which has worked closely with government in devising the final plans.
We also met speakers at ICAEW’s How to Fix VAT conference on 18 June 2025 to learn about the complexity of the UK’s VAT system and the obstacles to reforming the tax.
Those interested in sharing their views on the Industrial Strategy can contact Iain Wright by emailing iain.wright@icaew.com.
Time codes 00:42 Inside the Industrial Strategy 22:46 Navigating VAT reform
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 8 July 2025 Podcast recorded: 1 July 2025 | |||
| Behind the numbers: Investment risk - lessons from Russia | 20 juin 2025 | 00:35:11 | |
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss how businesses can best navigate geopolitical risk.
With the Trump administration’s push for tariffs, and wars taking place in Europe and the Middle East, doing business internationally is increasingly unpredictable. We explore the lessons learned from Russia’s recent history – beginning with the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 all the way through to the invasion of Ukraine in 2022 – and the strategies that businesses can put in place to move quickly should similar risks materialise.
Host Philippa Lamb is joined by Peter van Veen, ICAEW Director of Corporate Governance and Stewardship, and Charles Hecker, author and risk analyst.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 20 June 2025 Podcast recorded: 13 June 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Supporting SME growth and professional judgement in audit | 13 juin 2025 | 00:23:33 | |
In this episode, we discuss how SMEs can pursue growth in today’s environment of economic uncertainty, as well as explaining how auditors should be fulfilling their responsibilities to exercise professional judgement and scepticism.
Philippa Lamb is joined by start-up consultant Romesh Jeyaseelanayagam and Rhodri Whitlock, Director at HPL Associates.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 13 June 2025 Podcast recorded: 5 June 2025 | |||
| Behind the Numbers: Rebuilding trust in volatile times | 29 mai 2025 | 00:52:05 | |
Accountancy Insights is celebrating its 100th episode.
To mark the occasion, we’ve brought together experts from across business, politics and technology to look at a fundamental problem that’s holding back economic growth: trust. Just how deep is the trust crisis in business and institutions that we hear so much about? And how can it possibly be rebuilt as economic volatility persists?
We set the scene by discussing President Trump’s recent trade negotiations. Next, as Marks & Spencer continues to grapple with its near-catastrophic cyber attack, we explore how businesses can best protect themselves against the escalating risk of cybercrime. And finally, we speak with ICAEW Chief Executive Alan Vallance and Baroness Margaret Ford, Chair of the newly launched Centre for Public Interest Audit, on remedying the impact of high-profile corporate failures on public confidence in business.
This episode is available in both audio and video formats. Join thousands who have already subscribed to Accountancy Insights so that you never miss an episode.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 30 May 2025 Podcast recorded: 20 May 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Collecting unpaid taxes and revisions to the Code of Ethics | 12 mai 2025 | 00:12:16 | |
In this episode, we discuss the government’s new measures to collect billions of pounds in unpaid taxes, as well as covering the key changes to ICAEW’s Code of Ethics, which come into effect on 1 July 2025. Philippa Lamb is joined by Stephen Relf, Technical Manager, Tax; and Laura Hough, Director of Trust and Ethics.
This episode refers to penalty rates based on the Bank of England base rate, correct as of 1 May 2025. Make sure you check the current rates.
Time codes 00:28 Collecting unpaid taxes 06:04 Revisions to the Code of Ethics
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 12 May 2025 | |||
| Behind the numbers: The professional pitfalls of social media | 29 avr. 2025 | 00:25:52 | |
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss how professionals should approach social media.
Social media can be a minefield, particularly when personal and professional lives are closely interwoven. Online debate has become increasingly polarised, including how people use professional networks such as LinkedIn. We cover some common pitfalls and explain how ethical principles should be informing the behaviour of chartered accountants online.
Host Philippa Lamb is joined by Lucy Penrose, Director of Ethics, Risk and Compliance at RSM UK; Junaidy Ab-Mutalib, Managing Partner at JM & Co Chartered Accountants in Kuala Lumpur; and Hannah Macdonald, Founder of Accountancy Hub.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 29 April 2025 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Adapting post-tariffs, MTD at 10, UK GAAP changes | 08 avr. 2025 | 00:29:01 | |
In this episode, we discuss how the Trump administration’s tariffs will hamper the government’s growth plans, the progress made towards Making Tax Digital on its tenth birthday, and how changes to FRS 102 and 105 will affect the nation’s small businesses.
Philippa Lamb is joined in the studio by Iain Wright, Chief Policy and Communications Officer; Caroline Miskin, Senior Technical Manager, Digital Taxation; and Sally Baker, Head of Corporate Reporting Strategy.
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Host Philippa Lamb
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Producer Natalie Chisholm | |||
| Behind the numbers: What Britain needs to grow | 25 mars 2025 | 00:35:36 | |
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the necessary ingredients to support economic growth.
It’s a clear priority for the government. An industrial strategy is due to be published in the coming months – with eight key sectors for the UK already identified – and reviews of taxation and regulation are also taking place. As the Spring Statement arrives on 26 March, our panel explores whether government policy is pulling all the right levers.
Host Philippa Lamb is joined by John Boulton, ICAEW Director of Policy; John Godfrey, Managing Director of Public Affairs and Research at TheCityUK; Anne Allibone, fractional CFO; and Peter Arnold, EY UK Chief Economist.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 25 March 2025 | |||
| Accountancy insights: Happy birthday, HMRC | 17 mars 2025 | 00:21:49 | |
In this episode, we have a report by Mark Rowland from the ’20 Years of HMRC’ event held on 11 March at Chartered Accountants’ Hall, in which he speaks to James Murray, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, and Lord O’Donnell, former Permanent Secretary to the Treasury, among others, about the future of digitisation and HMRC.
Tax changes announced at the budget are coming into effect in April and one of the biggest concerns is the revisions to employers’ national insurance contributions and thresholds, as well as to NI employment allowances. Also changing is the way that double cab pick-ups are treated for tax purposes.
Auditing of SMEs has come under FRC’s spotlight recently, and it has launched a market study to determine what is working and what it not under the current regulation, including the complexity and cost of auditing standards.
Philippa Lamb explores the latter two subjects with Stephen Relf, Technical Manager, Tax, ICAEW, and Catherine Hardinge, Partner, Technical, Price Bailey LLP.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 17 March 2025 | |||
| Behind the Numbers: Succession planning - is employee ownership the answer? | 03 mars 2025 | 00:27:36 | |
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the appropriateness of employee ownership trusts (EOTs) for accountancy practices.
The majority of mid-tier accountancy and audit firms are still structured as limited liability partnerships. But, with nearly half of firms citing succession planning as a critical talent challenge, and private equity investors taking more interest in the sector, some firms are now looking at other options.
Philippa Lamb explores the key issues with Graeme Nuttall OBE, author of 2012’s Nuttall Review into employee ownership and International Ambassador for the Employee Ownership Association; Simon Blake, Head of Strategic Corporate Finance at Price Bailey; and Peter Hollis, whose firm recently became an EOT.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 3 March 2025 | |||
| Trump tariffs update and HMRC service standards | 12 févr. 2025 | 00:29:17 | |
In this episode, we discuss the latest developments in President Trump’s tariffs rollout and how they may affect UK businesses. We also explore a new joint report by ICAEW and the Chartered Institute of Taxation into HMRC service standards, which includes research findings from 31 agent firms.
Philippa Lamb is joined in the studio by ICAEW’s Iain Wright, Managing Director of Reputation and Influence, and Ed Saltmarsh, Technical Manager for VAT and Customs.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 13 February 2025 | |||
| Behind the Numbers: A ticking tech skills timebomb | 30 janv. 2025 | 00:28:59 | |
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss continuous learning around technology and artificial intelligence.
For accountants, getting the most out of fast-evolving technologies involves more than simply training people how to use them. Judgement, communication and granular accountancy skills all come into play. So how can firms identify their training needs and what are the best ways to deliver that training?
Philippa Lamb explores the key issues with Jenny Blewett, Head of Finance at Costello Medical; Daniel Clark, business trainer and writer; and Julia Penny, Director at JS Penny and ICAEW past-President.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 30 January 2025 | |||
| Trump, tariffs and EU turmoil: 2025 predictions | 02 janv. 2025 | 00:34:43 | |
In this special episode of Accountancy Insights, we look ahead to the most significant events and trends anticipated in 2025.
Last year brought a new UK government and its controversial first Budget. With things now appearing more settled at home, the upcoming inauguration of President Trump in the US and the recent collapse of governments in Europe will bring new opportunities and challenges for the British economy.
For the third year, host Philippa Lamb is joined in forecasting by Iain Wright, ICAEW Managing Director of Reputation and Influence; Frances Haque, Chief Economist at Santander UK; and David Williamson, Political Editor of the Sunday Express.
Links ICAEW Business Confidence Monitor: https://www.icaew.com/technical/economy/business-confidence-monitor
Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 3 January 2025 | |||
| Behind the Numbers: the financial case for sustainability | 12 déc. 2024 | 00:31:06 | |
In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the progress of sustainability reporting.
Across the globe, sustainability reporting has become increasingly mandated for large organisations. Now, with the CSRD introduced in the European Union and the first two ISSB standards set to be endorsed by the UK, the challenge for accountants lies in ensuring that the quality of non-financial information matches that of financial information.
To discuss the key issues, Philippa Lamb is joined by Richard Spencer, ICAEW Director of Sustainability; David Wray, founder of ESG consultancy DWG and IESBA Ethics Board member; and Marie-Josée Privyk, ESG coach and adviser.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 12 December 2024 | |||
| Accountancy Insights: Regulating tax advice, plus new professional behaviour wording | 02 déc. 2024 | 00:16:37 | |
In this episode, we speak to Ray McCann, fresh from delivering this year’s Hardman Lecture on Monday 25 November, about regulating the provision of tax advice. Plus, Sophie Wales, ICAEW Director of Regulatory Policy, explains upcoming changes to the ICAEW Code of Ethics around professional behaviour.
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Host Philippa Lamb
Reporter Mark Rowland
Guests
Producer Natalie Chisholm
Episode first published: 2 December 2024 | |||