Canada is experiencing a surge in companies with cryptocurrency holdings or transactions. This creates new audit risks for auditors as most lack experience in dealing with cryptocurrencies. On top of that, each cryptocurrency has its own unique features and characteristics bringing unique challenges in auditing each particular cryptocurrency.

The In Brief, ‘A plain and simple overview of auditing considerations related to cryptocurrencies’ raises the following questions:

• Should you accept or continue an engagement for a client with material cryptocurrency holdings or transactions?
• Do you have the appropriate experience and skillset to identify and assess all the risks of material misstatement and related assertions?
• Will you be able to obtain the audit evidence your need through designing and performing the right responses to those risks?

It also advises that CPA Canada has recently released guidance, Audit Considerations Related to Cryptocurrency Assets and Transactions, as a first step to assist auditors in this regard and provides a summary of the contents of this material.