Complex Audit Execution for Islamic Bank
Loiy Badawi
Financial Advisor
Financial Analyst
Bookkeeper
As an experienced Audit Associate at PwC, you would have likely performed a variety of audit procedures specifically tailored for Islamic banks, given their unique financial products and adherence to Sharia principles. These procedures could include:
Risk Assessment and Planning:
Understanding the Business Model: Gaining a deep understanding of the Islamic bank's operations, products (like Murabaha, Ijara, Musharaka, etc.), risk profile, and internal control systems.
Identifying Key Risks: Assessing the specific risks faced by Islamic banks, such as Sharia non-compliance, profit distribution issues, and unique operational risks.
Developing Audit Strategy: Tailoring the audit plan to address these identified risks and ensuring compliance with both International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) standards.
Execution of Audit Procedures:
Testing of Controls: Evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting, Sharia compliance, and other operational areas.
Substantive Testing: Performing detailed testing of transactions and account balances to verify their accuracy, completeness, and validity. This would involve:
Verification of Assets: Confirming the existence and ownership of assets like financed assets under Murabaha or leased assets under Ijara.
Review of Liabilities: Examining the nature and classification of liabilities, including deposits, Sukuk, and other Islamic financing instruments.
Income and Expense Verification: Analyzing the income generated from various Islamic financing modes and the expenses incurred in compliance with Sharia principles.
Profit Distribution: Assessing the calculation and distribution of profit among depositors and shareholders based on agreed-upon profit-sharing ratios.
Review of Sharia Compliance:
Document Review: Examining Sharia board resolutions, fatwas, and other relevant documentation to ensure compliance with Sharia principles.
Interviews: Discussing Sharia compliance procedures with the Sharia board and management.
Testing: Conducting specific tests to verify the implementation of Sharia rulings in financial transactions.
Reporting and Communication:
Preparing Audit Working Papers: Documenting the audit procedures performed, findings, and conclusions.
Drafting Audit Reports: Preparing clear and concise audit reports outlining the audit findings and opinions, highlighting any areas of non-compliance or potential improvements.
Communicating with Management: Discussing audit findings and recommendations with the bank's management to ensure transparency and facilitate corrective actions.
Additional Considerations for Review Engagements:
Understanding the Review Framework: Adhering to the International Standard on Review Engagements (ISRE) 2400.
Performing Analytical Procedures: Comparing financial data with prior periods, industry benchmarks, and expectations to identify unusual trends or inconsistencies.
Making Inquiries: Obtaining explanations from management for any significant fluctuations or unusual items.
Reviewing Financial Statements: Assessing whether the financial statements are prepared in accordance with applicable financial reporting frameworks.
By conducting these audit and review procedures, you would have played a crucial role in ensuring the financial integrity and Sharia compliance of Islamic banks, contributing to the stability and growth of the Islamic finance industry.
