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Chartered accountants are the world’s third most trusted profession, behind doctors and engineers, according to data from Edelman DXI for Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW).
While trust in the profession overall has declined by three points since 2023, trust in chartered accountants remains steady, creating a record five-point gap that reinforces the value of the chartered accountancy designation.
As businesses navigate misinformation, AI adoption, and the demand for ethical leadership, chartered accountants continue to stand out as trusted stewards of financial integrity and reliable data.
The study also reveals that three in four businesses now rely on chartered accountants to ensure data integrity: a six-point rise since 2023.
Bruce Cartwright CA, CEO of ICAS, said: “Trust is the foundation of our profession, so it’s encouraging to see strong levels of confidence in those who hold the chartered accountancy designation. At ICAS, our motto is ‘Seek the Truth’ – a principle that underpins our work to champion ethical leadership and educate the trusted professionals of tomorrow.
“This global study reinforces the trust society places in our members and highlights the importance of trust and governance in AI adoption, positioning chartered accountants as playing a vital role far beyond the numbers, as key stewards of financial integrity in an evolving digital landscape.”
Alan Vallance, ICAEW chief executive, added: “These results are highly encouraging, both because they show that chartered accountants continue to be seen as trusted advisors to business, and also because they demonstrate that the accountancy profession is increasingly identified as an authoritative voice on AI and digital transformation.
“The rigorous training undertaken by our members, together with the robust decision-making frameworks set out by our code of ethics, makes them natural allies of business. As a proud member of chartered accountants Worldwide, ICAEW continues to support the profession globally with essential skills as it adapts to modern challenges, most recently through upgrades to our flagship ACA qualification, which include a greater focus on ethics, sustainability and AI.”
