This course tackles the question: Is it ethical to “manage” the earnings number – that is, to use legitimate discretion in the preparation of the financial statements to manage the numbers in a way that serves the interests of the manager independent of whether it serves the interest of the firm’s owners? We begin by creating an ethical framework based on the professional code of ethics. We then cover the what, why, how and when of earnings management behavior, describing and illustrating the variety of ways in which managers use their discretion in operating, investing, financing, and reporting decisions to influence the financial reports. In the vast majority of these cases, we rely on real-world examples, taken from publicly-available financial statements that received unqualified audit opinions. For the various categories of earnings management, we consider how they can be evaluated within the ethical framework we established in the beginning of the course. The result is an informed and thoughtful approach to assessing whether a given earnings management practice is consistent with professional ethics, a valuable tool whether you are an external auditor reviewing a set of statements, a preparer of the statements, or an outsider attempting to determine the usefulness of the statements. Worth 3 Technical CPE Credits (CPA/NASBA)

UPDATED 2024: Programming and scheduling aren’t the most thought-of aspects of organizational planning, but they’re essential factors when it comes to effective management. In Controlling for Results, you will learn to account for constraints and control for different results. And by the end, you will be versed in planning, execution and control. Course Type: Business Simulation. Worth 4 PDCs (SHRM).

When it comes to held for sale classification accounting, there are six outlined criteria. This course provides a general overview of those criteria while discussing impact and measurement requirements. Ending with a look at how changes to a planned sale effects measurement and presentation, this eBook is perfect for CPAs hoping to dive deeper into the topic of held for sale assets. Course Type: eBook. Worth 1 Technical CPE Credit (CPA/NASBA).

UPDATED 2024: This virtual, self-study course demonstrates why foreign exchange in the international marketplace is risky business. Currency exchange rates constantly fluctuate, and appropriate measures must be taken to forecast these changes. So, joining Central Product’s international business team, you will explore the various factors involved in making accurate exchange rate predictions. Course Type: Business Simulation. Worth 3 PDCs (SHRM).