Accounting Profession and Disruptive Technologies: “Blockchain and Big Data”—The Agency Theory Perspective
摘要
The evolution of disruptive technologies such as blockchain and big data has impacted the accounting profession. As reflected by the name “disruptive”, these innovations significantly alter industries’ activities by displacing established traditional solutions and business models and creating new markets. Therefore, this paper explores disruptive technologies’ influences on accounting professions, analysing the benefits, challenges, and implications for accounting professions. Based on an agency theoretical perspective, this study uses literature review methodology to provide insights into the evolving roles of accountants in the digital era and proposes strategies for successful technological adoption. The review findings revealed that blockchain transforms financial transactions, and big data revolutionises decision-making by enabling real-time data analysis. Hence, these technologies end up outperforming previously established technologies. Although disruptive technologies enhance accurate financial reporting and audit efficiency, they also present challenges such as cybersecurity risk and regulatory uncertainty.