ACCA’s 75 Years of Thought Leadership

This year marks a very important milestone - ACCA's 75th anniversary of thought leadership. Starting off in 1943 as a Technical advisory committee (now called Technical research committee) – publishing their first report a mere four years later – and over the years transforming into the expert thought leadership team that Professional Insights is today.

ACCA’s research has pushed forward the state of debate on topics from accounting for water resources to the effect of tax havens on the taxation of corporate income. As we move further into the 21st century, the changing shape of business and society is reflected in research into robotics and AI, and the importance of the human element in accountancy. 

ACCA has also been at the forefront of the integrated reporting movement, as the first international professional body to examine integrated reporting in the ACCA Qualification and the first to produce an integrated report on its own corporate performance.

ACCA has been a bold innovator in the accountancy profession for over 110 years, the outputs of the research teams at ACCA have contributed increasingly to their mission to be a global leader in the profession. In Pakistan, ACCA has undertaken several researches when it comes to China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to share the key focus areas. In recent past ACCA has launched two reports; one around the Chinese perspective and the other is purely focused on the opportunity for Pakistan under CPEC. ACCA and PCI’s joint report aims to encourage businesses to think ahead about possible scenarios for better strategic planning for growth and risk management.

ACCA qualification is the world’s first to emphasise professional as well as technical skills and ethics. ACCA was also the first professional accountancy body in Pakistan to introduce a compulsory ethics module a decade ago - and reinforcing ACCA members’ standing as professionals who deliver public value. The report, Ethics and trust in a digital age, published in August 2017, is ACCA’s compelling look at the perceived importance of ethical behaviour in a rapidly evolving digital era, and the challenges that technological advance puts on the professional accountant.

Over the last 75 years, the outputs of the technical and research teams at ACCA have contributed increasingly to its mission to be a global leader in the profession.

ADATA launches new rugged and durable HD710 Pro external hard drive

ADATA recently launched the HD710 Pro external hard drive that has more capacity and is more shock resistant and durable while offering better portability and excellent performance. It is the best choice for active people who appreciate rugged devices that help them record and carry their adventures, but at the same time sporting newer technology and higher fidelity.

                                                                          

The HD710 Pro offers the advantages of an HDD in a robust, stylish enclosure at an attractive price point, and can easily accommodate larger files. Its highly durable protection and stable performance mean worry-free data mobility, which is especially important for people who love adventure and travelling. The HD710 Pro takes external hard drive durability to the next level since it is tested beyond IP68 dustproof and waterproof standards and complies with military-grade shock proofing standards with a triple-layered protective construction. With up to 5TB capacity, this master of storage survival an ally in keeping content safe whether users enjoy diving, hiking, biking, or simply taking a quick stroll. The HD710 Pro is a drive with total dust-tight protection and tested to withstand 2 meters of water for 60 minutes.

The drive will stand up to the U.S. Military MIL-STD-810G 516.6 standard. That means it will easily take falls from a height of 1.5 meters. This ensures data is safe since it also has three primary layers coating it. From tough silicone on the outside to a shock-absorbing buffer, it has it all. The tough plastic shell that is closest to the drive itself will also hold it firmly in place. The HD710 Pro features shock sensors that immediately stop all drive activity if a shock is detected. With 1TB, 2TB, 3TB, 4TB and 5TB, users get the flexibility of great external storage for their needs.

The drive has a nifty groove that goes around its shell serving as convenient storage for the detachable USB cable. This greatly reduces the risk of annoying cable misplacement and clutter. With attention to every minute detail, the HD710 Pro’s tab cover is one-touch easy but totally secure and waterproof.

ACCA committed to a greener Pakistan, joins the government for the Going Green Initiative

ACCA with its wide network of stakeholders will be actively participating in the government’s campaign to plant 1.5 million trees planned for the Green Day, to be celebrated on September 2 in the country.

Since ACCAs inception it has held a set of core values which gives it a distinctive character and defines its approach to the global profession. ACCA recognizes its corporate responsibility and believes in working with private and public sector organizations as well as the government to deliver quality services and to promote the best interest of its stakeholders.

One of ACCA’s core values is integrity and it works in the public interest, treating people fairly and honestly and encouraging other organizations to do the same.ACCA as a professional accountancy body promotes transparency and best practice and aims to help businesses and organizations realize the growing importance of sustainability to them. ACCA champions the extension of corporate reporting to include the social and environmental aspects of a business.

To minimize the impact on the environment and to save trees ACCA withdrew the paper-based exams and all of the examinations are on Computer-Based in line with our sustainability agenda.

Malik Amin Aslam, Advisor to the Prime Minister, chairing a provincial meeting held at the Ministry of Climate Change stated, ‘The purpose of the campaign is to encourage people, communities, organizations, business, and industry, civil society and government to collectively plant trees.’

Sajjad Aslam, Head of ACCA Pakistan commented, ‘ACCA qualified accountants have a clear role when it comes to influencing the government on sustainability-related matters and they have a deep understanding of the interdependence of social, environmental and economic issues’.

Greatly Anticipated Samsung Galaxy Note 9 launched in Pakistan

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. launched the latest addition to its premium Note series with Galaxy Note9.The Note series has been recognized for including the company’s latestgroundbreakinginnovations, and Galaxy Note9builds on this legacy with a premium smartphone that delivers the ultimate in performance; a new S Pen with connectivity for the first time ever; and Samsung’s most intelligent camera yet.

This long-awaited Galaxy Note9 redefines what you can do with a phone and inspires the users who ‘demandmore’.The device shares much of it’s design with last year’s 6.1-inch Note 8 but features an enhanced Bluetooth stylus, as well as an advanced camera that takes crisper & sharper photos than the S9 released earlier this year.A 4,000mAh 'all day battery' has been added - the largest ever on a flagship Galaxy phone - alongside a 6.4-inch edge-to-edge display.

The camera uses AI to take better photos, and will warn users if it detects a blur in a photo allowing user to quickly retake pictures. The Note 9 features Dual Aperture technology, which Samsung introduced earlier this year on its Galaxy S9 range. This technology is capable of adjusting the camera lens to light in the same way as the human eye.However, it would seem the highlight upgrade this year is the S Pen, which will let users remotely control the phone’s camera to take the perfect selfie.

The Managing Director of Samsung Pakistan, Mr. Y.J. Kim stated that: “The Note has always been our showcase for premium technology and industry-defining innovation, and Galaxy Note 9 is no exception. It's designed for a level of performance, power and intelligence that today's power users want and need.Note fans are Samsung's most loyal; we know they want it all, to get the most out of work and play, and Galaxy Note 9 is the only phone that can keep up with their busy lives. Samsung Pakistan is overjoyed in introducing this power-packed device to its loyal consumer base in Pakistan, this exciting new device promises a whole new world of information and entertainment while multi-tasking, with powerful global connectivity, for consumers aspiring to excel in today’s highly competitive and fast-paced world. It empowers and inspires users to do what can’t be done.”

Samsung has also introduced official launch partners to provide exclusive benefits with the Galaxy Note 9. The popular transportation providing service, Careem, is giving 20% off on rides for Note 9 users. Swarovski – one of the leading producers of jewelry worldwide - is offering 25% off on products. Note 9 users can also avail a 30% discount on membership at the premium health and fitness club, Structure. Finally, Jazz is providing 6GB data for all Note 9 users on their network.  

Some of the fascinating features of the Note 9 include; a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touch-screen display with 16M colors, Octa-core Exynos 9810 processor, Android 8.1 Oreo Operating System, 8GB RAM 512GB internal memory.  The device boasts a powerful Dual 12MP camera at the back with OIS and a Wide-angle f/1.5-2.4, telephoto lens, along with an 8MP front-camera. All this and more is powered by a 4000 mAh battery.

Gadoon Textile Mills, TSA and ACCA partner for Trees Plantation Drive

Gadoon Textile Mills Limited, TSA and ACCA organized a tree plantation drive on the country’s Independence Day August, 14^thby planting 750 tree saplings.  All organisations are committed to public service and giving back to the society.

The purpose of the campaign was to motivate employees of all organizations to plant more and more saplings as trees play an important role in maintaining environmental health and overcoming pollution and thus fulfilling their role of being responsible citizens.

The venue was Gadoon Textile Mills Limited’s Karachi Factory located on Super Highway and the activity saw contribution from Tabani's School of Accountancy (TSA)’s students who participated in the CSR activity with immense zeal. The drive reinforced the importance of creating awareness among the masses about the significance of trees and the discussions revolved around participants agreeing to engage in tree plantation activities at the household level.

Mr. Muhammad Imran Moten, Chief Financial Officer, Gadoon Textile Mills Limited shared, “This Independence Day, we vowed to support and protect our environment. Pakistan has been facing adverse weather conditions and planting trees for our children is one of the initiatives on Gadoon Textile Mills Limited’s part in order to counter this.”Mr. Tahir Saleem, Executive Director Technical, also shared his views. He stated, "Years ago, ancestors planted trees, and as of today we are able to reap its benefits. “Go green" a slogan under which many of us are trying to save our country. I believe that not only we are saving our country, but also benefiting our future generations for the cause of a clean environment and healthy lifestyle." 

Mr. Sharif Tabani, Founder and Principal, Tabani’s School of Accountancy acknowledged that,“climate change is eminent and we need to do our level best to make a greener Pakistan. Our students are motivated towards making their contributions to Pakistan’s society.”

Mr. Taimur Beiram Khan, Head of Business Development – South, ACCA Pakistan stated that “impact of climate change is most pertinent conversation to have in Pakistan as we are an agri-based economy. For sustainability of nation, it is imperative that we increase tree plantation initiatives like these in Pakistan. ACCA’s partnership with Gadoon Textile Mills Limited and Tabani’s School of Accountancy is very relevant as we are preparing our young ACCAsfor future challenges, and we are proud to say they are ready.”

FFC ANNUAL REPORT 2017 AWARDED 1st POSITION BY ICAP/ICMAP

FFC annual report 2017 has been declared number one by Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) and Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMAP).

Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited (FFC) has remained a hallmark of excellence and professionalism throughout the years, and its achievements have always been acknowledged.

Award ceremony jointly held by Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) and Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMAP).  FFC Annual Report 2017 was awarded for its First Position in “Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals” Sector, whereas, Sustainability Report was also ranked amongst the best Corporate and Sustainable reports.

CE&MD FFC, Lt Gen Tariq Khan (Retd), HI (M) lauded the efforts of management and expressed his immense pride in FFC workforce. He appreciated FFC’s management team for their exemplary competence for report compilation in conformity with set International Financial Reporting Standards and commitment to good governance and high level of ethical and moral standards to set benchmark of excellence. 

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Pre- Booking Starts in Pakistan

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced the latest addition to its premium Note series with Galaxy Note9 and have started the pre-orders with a benefit of 10,000 mAh battery pack for free. The Note series has been recognized for including the company’s latest groundbreaking innovations, and Galaxy Note9builds on this legacy with a premium smartphone that delivers the ultimate in performance; a new S Pen with connectivity for the first time ever; and Samsung’s most intelligent camera yet.

“The Note has always been our showcase for premium technology and industry-defining innovation, and Galaxy Note9 is no exception. It’s designed for a level of performance, power and intelligence that today’s power users want and need,” said DJ Koh, President, and CEO of IT & Mobile Communications Division, Samsung Electronics. “Note fans are Samsung’s most loyal; we know they want it all, to get the most out of work and play, and Galaxy Note9 is the only phone that can keep up with their busy lives.”

People rely on their smartphones for almost everything they do – all day, every day. They need a phone that can keep up without having to find the nearest outlet to recharge, delete pictures to free up storage for their next snap, anxiously wait for their video to download before boarding their flight, or deal with any lag time when gaming.

They need a phone that won’t let them down and Galaxy Note9 delivers.

• All Day Battery: Galaxy Note9’s 4,000mAh battery, the largest ever on a flagship Galaxy phone for long-lasting power to use all-day to talk, text, play games and watch movies from morning to night.
• Store-More, Delete Less: Galaxy Note9 is available with two internal storage options – choose from 128GB or And with the ability to insert a microSD card, Galaxy Note9 is 1TB ready[1] to have peace of mind knowing there is enough room for favorite photos, videos, and apps.
• Speed and Power: Galaxy Note9 is a super powerful smartphone with cutting-edge 10nm processor and support for the fastest network speeds available in the market (up to 1.2 gigabits per second) to stream and download without slowing down. Galaxy Note9 also includes an industry-leading and Samsung developed Water Carbon Cooling system and on-device AI-based performance adjusting algorithm to deliver the powerful yet stable performance.

The Evolution of the S Pen
The S Pen is the signature feature of the Note series – it’s how users have made their mark, and how Samsung has expanded the notion of what a smartphone can do. What began as a tool for writing and drawing is now putting more power and control in their hands.
Now with Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) support, the new S Pen delivers an entirely new way to use the Note.With just a click, it’s now possible to take selfies and group pictures, present slides, pause and play video, and more. Developers can even integrate the S Pen’s new, advanced BLE functionalities into their apps later this year.

The Intelligent Camera That Makes Pictures Perfect
It can be hard to take a picture that looks just like the ones the pros take – but it shouldn’t be. Galaxy Note9 builds on Samsung’s industry-leading camera technologies with new capabilities that take the work out of getting the perfect picture.

• Scene Optimizer: Galaxy Note9’s camera is Samsung’s smartest yet. It uses intelligence to identify elements of a photo, such as scene and subject, to automatically classify it into one of 20 categories and instantlyoptimizeit based on the category. The result is a stunning, lifelike image with bold colors and dynamic definition.

• Flaw Detection:The first shot doesn’t always come out right, but the Galaxy Note9 lets users know if there’s something wrong, so they can take another picture without losing the moment. An immediate notification will appear if the image is blurry, the subject blinked, there is a smudge on the lens, or there’s backlight impacting the quality of the image.

• Premium Camera:With the unique combination of advanced intelligence features and leading premium hardware, Galaxy Note9’s camera is the best on the market. It comes with advanced noise reduction technology, and a Dual Aperture[2]lens, which adjusts to light just like the human eye. No matter the lighting conditions, Galaxy Note9’s top-tier camera delivers a crystal-clear shot.

Premium Experiences: From Work to Play
The Infinity Display is the cornerstone of Samsung’s design heritage, and Galaxy Note9 has the largest edge-to-edge display ever on a Note. The 6.4-inch Super AMOLED Infinity Display provides a truly immersive multimedia experience. Galaxy Note9’s Infinity Display is complemented by stereo speakers, which are tuned by AKG, and ability to deliver Dolby Atmos® immersive audio for a life like experience. Mobile video has never looked or sounded better than it does on Galaxy Note9. YouTube named Galaxy Note9 as a Signature Device able to deliver a best-in-class YouTube experience.

Galaxy Note9 also delivers a PC-like experience with Samsung DeX. Users can work on presentations, edit photos, and watch their favorite show all powered by their phone. Experience Samsung DeX with easy-to-carry HDMI adapters[3]. When connected to a monitor, Galaxy Note9can power a virtualized desktop and even serve as a fully-functional second screen. Take notes with the S Pen while watching a video, or use Galaxy Note9 as a trackpad, to right-click, drag and drop, and use multiple windows on a monitor. It’s never been easier to be more productive.

Galaxy and Beyond
The premium Galaxy technologies come standard with Note9: fast wireless charging, IP68 water and dust resistance[4] and Samsung services such as Samsung Health and Samsung Pay. Galaxy Note9 features Samsung’s trusted, defense-grade Knox security platform and biometric security optionsincluding fingerprint scanning, iris scanning and facial recognition capabilities to keep important information safe.
Galaxy Note9 opens up a world of possibilities – it’s a portal to the full Samsung ecosystem of devices and services. For instance, use Galaxy Note9 and SmartThings to control connected devices, or get more done with Bixby[5], a personalized, intelligent assistant. And with the launch of Galaxy Note9, Samsung is making it easier to enjoy music with a new long-term partner, Spotify[6]. The partnership makes Spotify easily accessible to seamlessly sync and transfer music, playlists and podcasts across Galaxy Note9, Galaxy Watch and Smart TV products.
Galaxy Note9 will be available starting September 7, 2018 in Pakistan and will be offered in Midnight Black, Lavender Purple, with matching S Pen, and Ocean Blue with a Yellow S Pen.