July 2026

radicalcompliance.com · Jul 29, 2026

SpaceX's Volatile Valuation Skews Google's Earnings and Exposes Governance Gaps

Google's Q2 earnings were significantly inflated by a non-cash gain from its SpaceX investment, highlighting how accounting rules can create misleading financial pictures. This situation also underscores the broader implications of SpaceX's questionable corporate governance practices and Nasdaq's controversial decision to include it in the Nasdaq 100 index, forcing index funds into a volatile, poorly governed asset.

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normanmarks.wordpress.com · Jul 29, 2026

Tailoring Risk Information: What Different Stakeholders Truly Need to Know

Internal audit and assurance professionals must recognize that effective risk management hinges on providing tailored, actionable risk information to various stakeholders. Generic risk reports are insufficient; decision-makers, C-suite executives, and board members each require specific insights relevant to their roles and responsibilities to make informed and intelligent decisions.

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tamikaslowley.wixsite.com · Jul 29, 2026

First 90 Days as Audit Committee Chair: A Strategic Onboarding Guide for Effective Oversight

For audit and assurance professionals stepping into the critical role of Audit Committee Chair, the initial 90 days are paramount for establishing a strong foundation for effective oversight. This article outlines a strategic approach focused on deep understanding rather than immediate change, emphasizing the importance of reviewing governance frameworks, risk profiles, control environments, and assurance activities. By prioritizing information gathering and independent assessment, new Chairs can gain crucial insights into an organization's strengths, weaknesses, and areas requiring focused attention, ultimately leading to more informed decision-making and robust governance.

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alexandracar.substack.com · Jul 29, 2026

Workplace AI Under the Microscope: Shifting Regulatory Landscape and Audit Implications

The U.S. regulatory landscape for AI in the workplace is rapidly evolving, with a significant retreat of federal guidance and a surge in state-level legislation and private litigation. Internal audit and assurance professionals must understand this shift to effectively assess and mitigate risks associated with AI deployment in HR and operational processes, particularly concerning anti-discrimination laws and potential vendor liabilities.

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cfo.com · Curated 1 week ago

Grant Thornton to Acquire CBIZ in $5 Billion Deal, Creating Fifth-Largest US Tax and Advisory Firm

Grant Thornton announced its acquisition of CBIZ for $5 billion, a move set to establish the fifth-largest tax, advisory, and professional services company in the United States. This merger, fueled by a significant investment from private equity firm New Mountain Capital, highlights the increasing influence of private equity in the accounting sector and aims to expand the combined entity's geographic footprint and service offerings.

News & Blogs · Global Read more

linkedin.com · Curated 1 week ago

Psychological Safety: The Foundation for Brave Audits and Productive Audit Teams

This article, the second in a series, emphasizes the critical role of psychological safety within audit teams and client interactions. It argues that fear, whether among auditors or clients, hinders effective auditing by suppressing concerns and fostering silence. The author proposes practical strategies to cultivate an environment where speaking up is encouraged and valued, leading to more robust audits and improved client relationships.

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radicalcompliance.com · Jul 27, 2026

Scoular FCPA Case: Unanswered Questions and the Cartel Connection

The Scoular FCPA enforcement action, involving bribes to Mexican agriculture inspectors that allegedly benefited drug cartels, raises critical questions for internal audit and assurance professionals. The ongoing secrecy surrounding key case documents (criminal information and deferred-prosecution agreement) suggests broader investigations, potentially linking corporate corruption with drug trafficking. This intersection significantly alters risk assessments and compliance strategies, particularly for global companies operating in regions with high cartel activity.

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normanmarks.wordpress.com · Jul 27, 2026

AI in Internal Audit: A 'Deadly Trap' if Misused, Warns Norman Marks

Norman Marks cautions internal audit against falling into the "deadly trap" of using AI primarily for 100% transaction testing, arguing it shifts internal audit into a detective control function, which is management's responsibility. He emphasizes that internal audit's core role remains providing assurance on the effectiveness of internal control and risk management systems, especially as organizations increasingly integrate AI into their operations and decision-making processes. The focus should be on auditing management's effective use of AI, not becoming a transactional control.

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elementalaimatters.substack.com · Jul 27, 2026

Unseen AI Commitments: The Hidden Financial Exposures Beyond the Balance Sheet

Internal audit and assurance professionals must recognize that significant financial commitments related to AI, cloud services, and software are often not reflected on traditional balance sheets. These 'shadow borrowings' can severely restrict a company's future flexibility and create substantial financial exposure, even if they comply with GAAP. Boards need a consolidated view of these multi-year contracts to effectively govern and understand the true financial health and strategic agility of their organizations.

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richardchambers.com · Jul 27, 2026

Rotational CAEs: Balancing Opportunity and Risk for Lasting Internal Audit Value

The debate around rotational Chief Audit Executives (CAEs) has evolved from questioning their existence to evaluating their effectiveness in building lasting value. While rotational CAEs can bring fresh perspectives and deep operational knowledge, audit and assurance professionals must critically assess the potential risks to independence, objectivity, and the long-term strategic development of the internal audit function. This article explores how organizations can leverage the benefits of rotational leadership while mitigating its inherent challenges to ensure internal audit remains a credible and impactful governance pillar.

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