Audits provide essential accountability and transparency over government programs. Given the current challenges facing governments and their programs, the oversight provided through auditing is more critical than ever. Government auditing provides the objective analysis and information needed to make the decisions necessary to help create a better future. The professional standards presented in this 2018 revision of Government Auditing Standards (known as the Yellow Book) provide a framework for performing high-quality audit work with competence, integrity, objectivity, and independence to provide accountability and to help improve government operations and services. These standards, commonly referred to as generally accepted government auditing standards (GAGAS), provide the foundation for government auditors to lead by example in the areas of independence, transparency, accountability, and quality through the audit process. This revision contains major changes from, and supersedes, the 2011 revision.

Whether you are a financial statement preparer or auditor, it is critical to understand the complexities of the specialized accounting and regulatory requirements for investment companies. This 2018 guide provides authoritative how-to accounting and auditing advice, including implementation guidance and illustrative financial statements and disclosures. This guide is the industry standard resource, supporting practitioners in a constantly changing industry landscape packed with continuous regulatory developments. Updates include: References to appropriate AICPA Technical Questions and Answers that address when to apply the liquidation basis of accounting. Appendices discussing the new standards for financial instruments, leases and revenue recognition. Appendices discussing common or collective trusts and business development companies.