Principles of ethics

In this lesson

1. 0:00 Ethics and the ACCA Code of Conduct
2. 0:37 Professional Behaviour Principle Explained
3. 1:01 Integrity in Professional Relationships
4. 1:28 Professional Competence and Continuing Development
5. 2:09 Confidentiality and Information Protection
6. 2:44 Objectivity and Avoiding Bias

About this lesson

These principles form the foundation of the ACCA Code of Ethics and are essential for maintaining professional standards throughout your career. Understanding and applying these principles is critical for exam success and, more importantly, for building the trust and credibility you'll need as a qualified accountant. This lesson breaks down each principle with practical clarity. Professional behaviour means complying with laws and regulations without bringing the profession into disrepute. Integrity requires honesty and straightforwardness in all business relationships, ensuring you're never influenced to misrepresent financial information. Professional competence and due care involves keeping your knowledge current through ongoing CPD and staying abreast of changes in standards. Confidentiality means protecting sensitive information and only disclosing it when legally required. Objectivity ensures your judgements remain unbiased and free from conflicts of interest. These five principles aren't just theoretical—they're the ethical framework you'll apply in real-world scenarios as a finance professional and throughout your ACCA qualification. Mastering them now will help you navigate ethical dilemmas with confidence and demonstrate the professional integrity that employers and clients expect.

Duration: 3m