Empowered Audit Committees Restore Investor Trust in Corporate Governance
The study looked at how the independence of external auditors and the effectiveness of audit committees affect the reliability of audit reports, according to financial analysts in Jordan. By conducting interviews with analysts, the study found that when auditors are independent and supported by fully-independent audit committees, the audit reports are seen as more reliable. To improve auditor independence, regulators should enforce actions that empower audit committees to have more control over auditor-related decisions. This can lead to positive effects on the stock market and influence institutional investors' decisions to invest in companies. The study also suggests that audit committee members should be elected directly during general assemblies, with only independent, experienced, and qualified individuals eligible to be candidates.