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Emphasis of matter paragraph

An emphasis of matter paragraph draws attention to a matter appropriately presented or disclosed in the financial statements that is fundamental to users’ understanding. It is not a substitute for a modified opinion where modification is required and does not itself change the opinion.

Worked example

A properly disclosed exceptional catastrophe is fundamental to understanding the statements, and the auditor includes an appropriately headed paragraph.

Common mistake

Do not use an emphasis paragraph to cure a material omission in the financial statements.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA AA Direct September 2026–June 2027
ACCA AAA (INT) Direct September 2026–June 2027