ACCA and ACFE Sign Deal to Work Together Combatting Business Fraud

As fraud continues to present serious challenges to businesses and economies alike, two major professional bodies — the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) — have entered into a new strategic partnership. The two organizations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at boosting collaboration in areas such as research, education, and thought leadership around fraud prevention and detection.

Advancing Joint Research Initiatives

This new alliance builds upon previous collaborative efforts, particularly in the realm of thought leadership. It will include the development of a forthcoming ACCA report that focuses on strategies for tackling fraud. Both parties also intend to explore and initiate further joint research projects in the future.

Investing in Professional Development

The three-year MoU outlines plans to co-create and deliver programmes for continuing professional development (CPD) and continuing professional education (CPE). These initiatives are designed to support the ongoing learning and upskilling of fraud and accounting professionals around the world.

Helen Brand, ACCA chief executive, said: “ACCA has had a long-standing commitment to empowering members to better address and manage fraudulent activities, focused on improving risk assessment, robust controls and forensic auditing. This MOU reinforces that commitment. We look forward to working with fellow global professional body ACFE in promoting the highest ethical business standards.”

First Step: Joint Presence at 2025 Fraud Conference

An early milestone in the collaboration will be ACCA’s participation in the 2025 ACFE Fraud Conference Europe, scheduled to take place in London from March 24–26. ACCA’s Rachael Johnson, global head of risk management and corporate governance for policy and insights, will lead a joint panel session exploring the dual role of artificial intelligence — both as a tool for committing cyber fraud and as a powerful ally in detecting and preventing it.

John Warren, the ACFE’s chief executive officer, said: “Together, ACFE and ACCA memberships include thousands of professionals in countries around the world. This strategic partnership between our organisations is a natural fit in pursuit of one common goal: fighting fraud. Teaming up with ACCA opens many doors to collaboration, thought leadership and more. We’re thrilled for the bright future that lies ahead.”

Kush Ahuja, ACCA's Head of Eurasia and Middle East, comments: "In the Middle East, fostering an ethical business culture is paramount to combating fraud and ensuring sustainable economic growth. This partnership between ACCA and ACFE underscores our commitment to equipping professionals in the region with the tools and knowledge necessary to uphold integrity and transparency in all financial practices."