Who is responsible for preparing Expected Credit Losses (ECL) estimates
Under IFRS 9, one question continues to spark debate in the financial community: Who bears the responsibility for preparing the Expected Credit Losses (ECL) study?
The short answer:
🔹 Entity Management (Financial Management + Credit Management) is the primary and ultimate responsible party for preparing the ECL estimates, under the oversight of the Board of Directors.
🔹 The External Auditor is a reviewer, not a preparer. Their role is to verify the correctness of the process and compliance with accounting standards. They cannot participate in the preparation to maintain their independence.
🔹 The Credit Consultant is a technical supporter who provides advisory expertise in modeling and analysis, but the ultimate responsibility for the final figure remains with management.
The optimal governance model (Three Lines of Defense):
· First Line: Management (preparation)
· Second Line: Risk Management (independent review and challenge)
· Third Line: Internal Audit (independent assurance)
· External Audit: External Auditor (verification and opinion issuance)
Bottom Line: Clear separation of roles ensures accurate ECL estimates and enhances the confidence of investors and regulators.
📌 Full articlehttps://astaudit.com/articles/ecl?lang=en
Prepared by:
Dr. Ahmed Abdelwahab Elsaman's Office
Certified Public Accountant & Assurance Expert
https://astaudit.com/articles/ecl?lang=en
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