An Islamic perspective on the true and fair view override principle

What is it about?

This paper aims to determine whether the “true and fair view override” (TFVO) principle is relevant and applicable in Islamic accounting. In addition, the paper examines the roles that TFVO could play in Islamic accounting and auditing.

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Why is it important?

The findings of the paper provide a basis to support the inclusion of theTFVO in Islamic accounting standards, as well as possible usage by Islamic financial institutions (IFIs). Thus, regulators of IFIs and Islamic accounting standards setting bodies can consider it in their challenging task of standardizing accounting practices due to the different interpretations of transactions from the various Madhahib and multiple accounting concepts and practices. In addition, the discussion in the paper reminds accountants and auditors of IFIs and Islamic organizations that providing a true and fair view (TFV) is paramount; thus an override of inapplicable accounting standards and regulation is allowed, but not Shari’ah. Thus, TFVO can assist accountants to record transactions that reflect the economic reality of the IFIs, especially prior to accounting regulations keeping pace with the rapid business environment.

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