深度｜监管部门重拳打击财务造假，审计机构却在“装聋作哑”？

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant issue of internal control failures in listed companies, which serve as a breeding ground for financial fraud, and emphasizes the need for a thorough examination of the auditing mechanisms and corporate governance systems in place [2][5]. Summary by Sections Financial Fraud Cases - Dongfang Group was fined millions by the CSRC for significant financial fraud, having inflated business revenue by over 16 billion yuan through fictitious business operations over four years [3]. - A staggering 80% of companies penalized by the CSRC had received unqualified audit opinions regarding their internal controls in the five years leading up to their penalties [4][8]. Audit Mechanisms and Internal Controls - The audit process is likened to a health check for a company, focusing on the compliance of financial reporting and internal controls [7]. - The Ministry of Finance and the CSRC issued guidelines in 2010 stating that any significant internal control deficiencies should lead to a negative audit opinion [7]. - Despite clear evidence of financial misconduct, many companies received standard unqualified opinions on their internal controls during the years of their violations [10][12]. Statistics on Audit Opinions - From 2022 onwards, 257 companies were penalized for financial reporting violations, with many having never received non-standard audit opinions in the five years prior [12][13]. - Among the companies that faced penalties, 178 had internal control audits that were deemed effective, despite their violations [13]. Discrepancies in Audit Findings - The article discusses the disconnect between audit opinions and regulatory penalties, attributing it to differences in the focus and capabilities of auditors versus regulatory bodies [17][18]. - Auditors often prioritize financial reporting over internal controls, leading to a lack of attention to potential internal control failures [18]. Recommendations for Improvement - To restore the credibility of audits, experts suggest enhancing auditor independence, adopting modern auditing techniques, and addressing low-cost competition that undermines audit quality [23][25][26]. - A comprehensive digital system is recommended to improve internal governance and reduce violations of internal control procedures [30]. - Cultivating a compliance culture within companies is essential, with suggestions for regular risk training and establishing a whistleblower system to encourage reporting of misconduct [31]. Conclusion - The article concludes that the effectiveness of internal controls is crucial for corporate governance, and there is an urgent need for companies to address the systemic issues that lead to audit failures and financial misconduct [28][29].