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Open Access
Article
Publication date: 20 October 2022

Cas Coovadia

South Africa as the most unequal country in the world.

Abstract

South Africa as the most unequal country in the world.

Details

Emerald Open Research, vol. 1 no. 14
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2631-3952

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 August 2022

Michael Harber, Grietjie Verhoef and Charl de Villiers

The paper aims to examine disputed interpretations of “key meanings” between the audit regulator and Big 4 firms during a highly contentious regulatory debate, showcasing their…

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to examine disputed interpretations of “key meanings” between the audit regulator and Big 4 firms during a highly contentious regulatory debate, showcasing their use of “strategies of resistance” to achieve their intended outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative analysis is performed of the discourse in a South African audit regulatory debate, set within the country's unique political and historical context. The analysis is informed by the theoretical construct of a “regulatory space” and an established typology of strategic responses to institutional pressures.

Findings

The study’s findings show how resistance to regulatory intentions from influential actors, notably the Big 4 firms, was dispelled. This was achieved by the regulator securing oversight independence, co-opting political support, shortening the debate timeline and unilaterally revising the interpretation of its statutory mandate. The regulator successfully incorporated race equality into its interpretation of how the public interest is advanced (in addition to audit quality). The social legitimacy of the Big 4 was then further undermined. The debate was highly contentious and unproductive and likely contributed to overall societal concerns regarding the legitimacy of, and the value ascribed to, the audit function.

Practical implications

A deeper appreciation of vested interests and differing interpretations of key concepts and regulatory logic could help to promote a less combative regulatory environment, in the interest of enhanced audit quality and the sustainability and legitimacy of the audit profession.

Originality/value

The context provides an example, contrary to that observed in many jurisdictions, where the Big 4 fail to actively resist or even dilute significant regulatory reform. Furthermore, the findings indicate that traditional conceptions of what it means to serve “the public interest” may be evolving in favour of a more liberal social democratic interpretation.

Details

Accounting, Auditing & Accountability Journal, vol. 36 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0951-3574

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 September 1970

J. Thesiger

March 16, 1970 Negligence — Duty of care — Damage to electric cable by workmen building wall on road — Resulting power failure in near‐by factory — Damage to plant and machinery…

Abstract

March 16, 1970 Negligence — Duty of care — Damage to electric cable by workmen building wall on road — Resulting power failure in near‐by factory — Damage to plant and machinery and loss of day's production in factory — Claim for damages by factory owner — Whether damage too remote — Liability of defendant — Whether actionable nuisance.

Details

Managerial Law, vol. 8 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0558

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