(A Research on the Factors Affect The Number of Reported Audit Matters: An Application in Istanbul Stock Exchange)

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this research is to research whether there is a significant relationship between the properties of an audited company or auditor/auditing firm and issues that are explained by the paragraph of Key Audit Matters in independent audit reports. Design/methodology/approach – For that purpose, scrutinized 513 Key Audit Matters paragraph in independent audit reports of 171 companies operating in the Istanbul Stock Exchange (ISE) Manufacturing Industry for the period of 2017-2019. Findings – For research findings, less key audit issues were reported in independent audit reports in case of being auditing firm one of the four greats; uncertainty on the continuity of audited company; changed the previous auditing firm in the current year. Discussion – The KAM paragraphs impose new responsibilities on auditors, such as reputational concerns, economic concerns, and litigation costs. As clearly stated in the relevant standard, KAMs provide information about the research findings obtained as they are related to the professional judgment of the auditor, the financial risk status of the audited entity, as well as the effect of the characteristics of the audit company and the auditor on key audit issues.