ISCA Conference Programme

ISCA Conference 2024 returns, bigger, better and bolder than ever before

Breaking boundaries, this year will feature a two-day event on 14 and 15 November to fulfil the needs of the accountancy and business professionals, offering more content, more networking and more activities along with more space!

Aptly themed Accountancy Renaissance - Leading Positive Disruptions to set Future Foundations, each day of the conference will showcase the rebirth of the Accountancy Industry where we strive for positive and creative disruptions to build new foundations without forgetting our fundamentals.

- Day 1: Accountancy Renaissance: Setting Future Foundations
o Track 1: Private Sector Track - Championed by various ISCA Committees
o Track 2: Public Sector Track - with AGD as a Strategic Partner

- Day 2: Practitioner Renaissance: Leading Positive Disruptions

14 Nov 2024, Accountancy Renaissance: Setting Future Foundations

8.30am - 9.30am	Registration and Networking Breakfast Conference door will be opened at 9.00am
9.30am - 9.40am	Welcome Address by ISCA
9.40am - 9.50am	Opening Address by Guest of Honor Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Second Minister for Finance, and Second Minister for National Development
9.50am - 11.20am	Thought Leadership Keynote Address Mr Avi Liran
11.20am - 12.00pm	From Classroom to Career: Setting Future Foundations for Singapore's New Economy
Launch of ISCA research report: Making Accountancy Education Fit for Purpose for the New Economy The future foundations are highly dependent on the skills we educate our future accountants and finance professionals. Have you done a stocktake of the skillsets that your current team have? Is your team ready for Singapore’s New Economy? Join us as we examine the latest trends of the accountancy profession, assessing the skills that accountants need for the new economy. Our experts will spend the first 10mins sharing about the skillsets that are essential for the accountancy pipeline before our panellists share their insights on how we can ensure the pipeline of future finance professionals are fit for purpose. Discover how the accountancy programmes will need to evolve to incorporate important soft skills, sustainability skills, and digital and AI skills that are needed for Singapore’s new economy. Moderator: Prof Ho Yew Kee, FCA (Singapore) Deputy Dean, Chow Yei Ching School of Graduate Studies Professor of Practice (Accounting), College of Business City University of Hong Kong Chairman St Luke's Eldercare Ltd Chairman, Audit Committee Singapore Re-Insurance Corporation Panelists: Mr Dennis Lui, ISCA Member Deputy Commissioner IRAS CEO Tax Academy Ms Yvonne Chan, FCA (Singapore) CFO Singapore Management University
12.00pm - 1.30pm	Networking Lunch

1.30pm - 2.15pm	The Profession Equation for Ethical AI
Championed by ISCA AI for AI Taskforce Research Network Ethical considerations and responsible application of AI technology are paramount to maintaining the integrity of financial practices and upholding public trust. This session seeks to dissect the complex issues at the intersection of AI and accountancy. Drawing from a comprehensive study, we will unveil a robust framework designed to guide the ethical deployment of AI within the realm of accountancy. Join us as our expert speaker illuminates the path forward, fostering a dialogue on how to embed ethical principles into the fabric of AI-driven accountancy. Speaker: Dr El'fred Boo Hian Yong, FCA (Singapore) Member, ISCA Corporate Governance and Risk Management Committee Associate Professor Nanyang Technological University
2.15pm - 3.00pm	Staying Ahead of Transformations in Financial Reporting
*Championed by ISCA Financial Reporting Committee* The recently issued IFRS 18 is the first new IFRS standard in 7 years. It is set to reshape the way income and expenses are presented in the financial statements. IFRS 19 is also set to be an impactful new standard as it seeks to reduce the costs of reporting by simplifying financial reporting for subsidiary companies. This segment will provide you with a comprehensive overview of these new and upcoming standards and other trending developments in financial reporting. Speaker: Mr Chen Voon Hoe, CA (Singapore) Chairman, ISCA Financial Reporting Committee Partner PwC
3.00pm - 3.45pm	Networking Teabreak
3.45pm - 4.30pm	Panel Discussion: The Renaissance of a Finance Leader's Role - From CFO to Beyond
*Championed by ISCA CFO Committee* Hear from our panel of experienced leaders as they share how the expectations and roles of finance leaders have evolved. Starting by delving into how modern finance leaders have expanded their responsibilities beyond traditional accounting and reporting. Today's finance leaders engage in sustainability, data analytics, technology, and AI, adapting to a dynamic business environment shaped by geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, macroeconomic disruptions, and climate risks. The panelists will share their war stories and upcoming expectations, highlighting the challenges faced, such as integrating new technologies, managing talent shortages, and fostering leadership development. Progressing beyond the role of a CFO, our panelists will offer valuable tips for Chartered Accountants to leverage their unique skill set to support the business and transition from CFO to roles like CEO and Executive Directors. Emphasizing the importance of business acumen, stakeholder engagement, and strategic partnership, this discussion will provide interesting points for finance leaders aiming to drive their careers to new heights. Moderator: Mr Anand Sachdev, CA (Singapore) Managing Director, Country Manager ING Bank Speaker: Mr Adrian Chua, FCA (Singapore) Member, ISCA CFO Committee CFO Tokio Marine Insurance Singapore Ms Chua Siew Hwi, FCA (Singapore) Member, ISCA CFO Committee Senior Vice President, Enterprise Performance Changi Airport Group
4.30pm - 5:30pm	Insights into the Review of Financial Statements
*Championed by ISCA Financial Statements Review Advisory Panel* Find out the areas of review focus for the FY2024 financial statements. With a Q&A segment, attendees will also have the opportunity to ask their burning questions from subject matter experts and regulators on their insights and suggestions in complying with the financial reporting standards. Panelist: Ms Yvonne Chiu, CA (Singapore) Chairperson, ISCA Financial Statements Review Advisory Panel Member, ISCA Auditing and Assurance Standards Committee Partner KPMG Mr Aylwin How, CA (Singapore) Deputy Chairman, ISCA Financial Reporting Committee Member, ISCA Financial Statements Review Advisory Panel Partner Deloitte Ms Tan Wee Khim, CA (Singapore) Technical Director, Financial Reporting & Standards Department Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority

1.30pm - 1.45pm	Keynote Address Speaker: Mr Adrian Chua Deputy Secretary Ministry Of Finance
1.45pm - 2.15pm	Finance Renaissance: Lesson from International Best Practices
Hear from our international speaker on their successes and lesson learned from their finance transformation journey. Gain insights into international best practices within the evolving financial landscape. This segment offers valuable perspectives and actionable strategies to enhance your organization's approach to finance transformation. Speaker: Mr Mike Driver, CB, FCPFA Former Head Government Finance Function (UK), His Majesty's Treasury Independent Chair of Board
2.15pm - 3.00pm	Panel Discussion: Setting Future Foundations for Public Sector Accountancy Workforce
Since the launch of the recommendations of the Accountancy Workforce Review Committee, the private sectors and accounting firms have responded with their strategies and talent development. Correspondingly, the accountancy workforce of the public sector is indispensable, contributing to the foundations of the success of every organisation while acting as guardians of trust. Hear from our panel of public sector leaders on their perspectives and plans for the public sector. Panelists: Mrs Chia-Tern Huey Min Co-chair of the Implementation Committee for Accountancy Workforce Development Chief Executive Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority Ms Goh Soon Poh ISCA Member Auditor-General Auditor-General's Office Ms Esther Wee, CA (Singapore) Member, ISCA CFO Committee Deputy Accountant-General Accountant-General's Department
3.00pm - 3.45pm	Networking Teabreak
3.45pm - 4.15pm	AI Driven Sustainability: Pioneering the Future
Discover how AI can help address emerging global sustainability issues, ranging from net zero to circular economy, from forecasting climate impact to building resilience, and from data measurement to efficient audits. Learn how integrating AI optimizes resource management and fosters innovative solutions to environmental challenges. Our speakers will share case studies where AI has been instrumental in predicting environmental trends and contributing to circular economies. Examples of AI-driven solutions that enhance operational efficiencies, reduce costs and open new revenue streams through sustainable initiatives will also be shared. Speakers: Mr Manik Bhandari EY Asean Data and Artificial Intelligence Leader EY Mr Praveen Tekchandani Leader, Singapore Climate Change and Sustainability Services EY
4.15pm - 4.45pm	Future-Ready Governance: Harnessing Technology for Public Sector Innovation
Explore how technology is revolutionizing the public sector, changing not only work processes but also working habits. Gain valuable perspectives on navigating digital transformation and innovation using emerging technologies. This session will provide you with the insights needed to lead successful tech disruptions. Speaker: Mr Sim Feng-Ji Deputy Secretary Digital Government Ministry of Digital Development and Information
4.45pm - 5.30pm	Navigating the Future of Sustainability Reporting and Assurance
Hear our panel discuss their key takeaways on sustainability reporting and assurance for FY2024. Sharing their experiences and best practices and offering valuable guidance on navigating the evolving landscape of sustainability disclosure and assurance, the floor will also be opened to questions from the audience. Moderator: Mr Praveen Tekchandani Leader, Singapore Climate Change and Sustainability Services EY Panelists: Mr Low Sze Gin Executive Director (Internal Audit Department) Monetary Authority of Singapore Mr Tan Boon Siong, CA (Singapore) Member, ISCA Sustainability & Climate Change Committee Group Director (Treasury, Technical & Analytics) Accountant-General's Department Ms Aileen Tan Group Chief People and Sustainability Officer Singtel Group

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5.30pm - 7.00pm Cocktail Networking. See you on Day 2!

15 Nov 2024, Practitioners Renaissance: Leading Positive Disruptions

8.30am - 9.30am	Registration and Networking Breakfast Conference door to be opened by 9.15am
9.30am - 9.40am	Welcome Address by ISCA
9.40am - 10.30am	Thought Leadership Keynote Panel Moderator: Dr Nadir Zafar Chief Experience Officer Human Capital Leadership Institute Director Singapore Leaders Network Speaker: Mr Ho Kwon Ping Founder and Executive Chairman Banyan Group
10.30am - 10.45am	Break
10.45am - 11.30am	The ESG Advantage: Unveiling Key Insights for Investment Risk & Opportunities
*Championed by ISCA Sustainability and Climate Change Committee* Delve into the critical intersection between ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors and the future of asset valuation. Drawing insights from recent discussions featuring leading figures in investment, real estate, and business valuation, this session will explore how ESG considerations are fundamentally reshaping the valuation landscape Speaker: Ms Mariam Ashroff Head of Sustainability Management APAC *LGT Bank*
11.30am - 12.15pm	Cybersecurity Shield: Protection of Professional Firms
In today's technology-driven world, cybersecurity is more critical than ever, especially for professional firms that manage vast amounts of sensitive client data. The risks are substantial, and the need for robust security measures is paramount. This session will delve into the unique cybersecurity threats faced by professional firms, sharing compelling real-world cases and insights. Join us to learn from experts about the most pressing challenges and effective strategies to protect your firm from digital threats. Gain valuable knowledge on how to bolster your cybersecurity defences and safeguard your critical data. Speaker: Dr Tan Mei Hui President, Cybersecurity Chapter Singapore Computer Society
12.15pm - 1.45pm	Networking Lunch
1.45pm - 2.30pm	Audit Quality Updates: Delivering Positive Impact through Quality Management
ACRA’s inspection activities play a pivotal role in advancing the audit profession, raising audit quality, and fostering greater confidence in the financial reporting ecosystem. ACRA will be sharing observations from the new regulatory quality control inspections on accounting entities, which commenced on 1 July 2023, as well as opportunities for these accounting entities to enhance their system of quality management. Under the Practice Monitoring Programme, ACRA continues to note recurring inspection findings and urges both accounting entities and public accountants to focus on analysing root causes of the inspection findings, so as to devise an effective remediation plan that will drive continuous improvement in audit quality. Speakers: Ms Ng Meow Ling, CA (Singapore) Technical Director, Inspection Department Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority
2.30pm - 3.15pm	The GST Discounts Controversy: Landmark Ruling in Direct Marketing
In a pivotal landmark ruling, the Singapore’s High Court has redefined the GST framework for direct marketing entities. Central to this development was the decision of Herbalife International Singapore Pte Ltd v CGST [2023] SGHC 54, which revolved around the application of GST on products sold at a discount by Herbalife to its affiliates. The crux of the matter is as follows: should GST be levied on the original or discounted price? Our speaker will delve into the intricacies of this groundbreaking judgment and its ramifications for direct marketing operations carried out in Singapore. He will also explain the arguments put forth by him that influenced the court’s verdict, thereby establishing a favourable benchmark for similar market players that have analogous disputes. Attendees will emerge from this session with an enhanced understanding of the GST intricacies and strategic insights into navigating tax disputes and ensuring tax compliance within their business ventures. Speakers: Mr Vikna Rajah Chairman International Fiscal Association - Singapore Chapter Executive Management Committee Partner, Head of Tax *Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP*
3.15pm - 4.00pm	Networking Tea Break
4.00pm - 5.00pm	Pitfalls of Ignorance for Directors in an Uncertain World
*Championed by ISCA Corporate Governance and Risk Management Committee* Rising geopolitical tensions, a slowing global economy and perpetrators that are smarter and one step ahead of traditional fraud schemes means that Boards need to expect the unexpected when it comes to economic crime. Against a backdrop of high-profile bribery, sanctions, money laundering, and fraud cases in Singapore and the APAC region, governance practices are not only scrutinised by regulators but also courts and the general public. This panel will discuss what inquiries Directors should make and the corporate governance required to mitigate the risks of a crisis unfolding with economic crime. Moderator: Mr Neo Sing Hwee Member, ISCA Corporate Governance and Risk Management Committee Global Client Service Partner, Government & Public Sector Ernst & Young Panelists: Mr Jarrod Baker Partner, Strategy, Risk & Transactions Forensic Investigations Leader Deloitte Southeast Asia Mr Aaron Lee Member, Financial Forensic Accounting Oversight Committee Partner Allen & Gledhill
5.00pm - 5.45pm	SSA 600 (Revised)- What has Changed for Group Audit?
*Championed by ISCA Auditing and Assurance Standards Committee* The revised SSA 600 reshapes how group audits are carried out, with a new risk-based approach and enhanced direction and supervision of component auditors. Learn practical considerations for a successful implementation from our insightful speaker. Speaker: Ms Tan Bee Nah Deputy Chairperson, ISCA Auditing and Assurance Standards Committee Partner, Assurance PwC
5.45pm - 7:00pm	Afterparty. See you in 2025!