Audit evidence, technology, and judgement: A review of the literature in response to ED‐500

Abstract

In October 2022, the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) issued Exposure Draft 500 (ED-500). This is focused on revising and integrating the standard auditors use when evaluating audit evidence during an external audit. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse as the IAASB evaluates feedback to ED-500 and executes its standard-setting agenda. We review academic literature published in the past 10 years to synthesize extant knowledge specifically on the use of technology and the application of professional skepticism during audit evidence evaluation. Our review offers factors the IAASB should consider when seeking to modernize and future-proof its standards, suggesting improvements to the proposed ED-500. We also identify fruitful avenues for future academic research.

The asset‐pricing implications of carbon risk in Korea

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between carbon risk and stock returns for listed firms in Korea, where firms are legally obligated to disclose their carbon emissions. While previous research mostly focuses on major markets like the United States and the European Union, demonstrating the impact of climate change on asset prices, there is a scarcity of studies examining emerging markets. Using data from Korean-listed firms from 2011 to 2021, we investigate the association between a firm's exposure to carbon risk and cross-sectional stock returns. We find that stocks with high exposure to carbon risk exhibit higher average returns and the abnormal returns associated with carbon risk are statistically significant and cannot be explained by the Fama-French three- or five-factor models. Furthermore, this phenomenon is more evident among stocks with high foreign ownership. Finally, the carbon factor commands a significantly positive risk premium, suggesting that carbon risk is an important risk factor even in emerging markets like Korea.