Description:

This course offers an in-depth analysis of the “stranger than fiction” Wirecard fraud, one of the largest financial frauds ever, focusing on why the fraud occurred and what CPAs can take as lessons for our ethical decision-making.  This unbelievable and sensational fraud and collapse of one of Europe’s largest financial institutions involves:

• Round-tripping
• Money laundering
• Fraudulent fraudulent reporting
• Spycraft
• Online gambling
• €1.9 Billion of missing cash
• Intimidation and threats

That’s just the tip of the iceberg.  By investigating the events that led to the scandal, participants will understand the consequences of ethical breaches and the vital role of integrity in the accounting profession. Leadership is another critical theme of this course. Participants will examine the leadership failures at Wirecard and learn about the characteristics of ethical leadership that promote accountability and ethical decision-making. This engaging and informative course promises to provide invaluable insights to help participants enhance their ethical awareness, improve organizational culture, and lead with integrity.

Learning objectives:

1. Demonstrate the application of ethical principles in real-world accounting scenarios.
2. Analyze the organizational culture at Wirecard and its impact on ethical behavior.
3. Assess the leadership failures at Wirecard and their contribution to the fraud.
4.  Develop strategies to foster a culture of psychological safety within an organization.
5. Describe the importance of ethical leadership in promoting accountability and integrity.