Topics for: Generative Artificial Intelligence in External Auditing: Commentaries and Perceptions from the Audit Industry

Focus on the future workforce. What new skills and training must external auditors acquire to effectively work alongside Generative AI tools? Will AI replace junior audit staff, and how must universities and firms adapt their curricula to prepare the next generation of auditors?

Explore the major risks and professional concerns voiced by the audit industry. How can firms ensure the security of confidential client data used by AI, and how do auditors address issues of AI bias or the risk of false outputs ("hallucinations") undermining their professional judgment?

Discuss the specific applications where Generative AI (like LLMs) can immediately boost audit efficiency (e.g., summarizing contracts, drafting reports, risk spotting). Do audit professionals believe AI will improve audit quality by finding subtle errors humans might miss?