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Ethics

Ethics concerns principles and reasoned judgments about appropriate conduct and its effects on others. In management accounting, integrity, objectivity, competence, confidentiality and professional behaviour should guide data, reporting and advice as well as compliance with rules. Pressure to meet targets does not justify misleading information. Recognise conflicts, seek evidence and use appropriate consultation or escalation, while considering duties to stakeholders and the wider public interest.

Worked example

A manager is asked to omit a material adverse service trend from a board report. Ethical reporting presents the relevant evidence fairly rather than conceal it to protect a bonus.

Common mistake

Legal compliance or a favourable business outcome does not automatically settle every ethical question.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA APM Supporting September 2026–June 2027
ACCA BT Direct September 2026–June 2027
ACCA SBL Direct September 2026–June 2027
FIA FBT Direct September 2026–June 2027