American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Practice Exam

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What constitutes a violation of independence regarding financial interests?

Peer review monitoring.
Investing in client assets.
Consulting for clients without a payment.
Being a member of professional organizations.

The correct answer is: Investing in client assets.

Investing in client assets constitutes a violation of independence because it creates a potential for a conflict of interest. When a CPA or firm has a financial interest in a client, it can influence the objectivity and impartiality that is fundamental to the accounting profession. Such an investment can lead to situations where the CPA’s judgment is compromised, particularly when auditing or providing assurance services to that client. Independence is essential to maintaining public trust, and any financial relationship that could be perceived as influencing the auditor's behavior undermines that trust. Peer review monitoring does not impact independence in the same manner, as it is a process to ensure adherence to professional standards rather than a financial interest. Consulting for clients without payment also does not create a direct financial interest that would threaten independence. Lastly, being a member of professional organizations generally does not affect independence, as these affiliations are not indicative of a direct financial interest in a client's well-being or success.