Module: | Specialized Audits, Tech & ESG Disclosures
Q91: Consider the following statements regarding the updated Advertisement and Website Guidelines under the revised ICAI Code of Ethics applicable from April 2026:
1. The revised Code allows members and firms to use "push mode" technology for promoting services that are not exclusive to the Chartered Accountancy profession, such as general management consultancy.
2. Indian CA network firms formally registered with the ICAI are now legally permitted to develop and maintain their own network-level websites.
3. The revised guidelines completely prohibit the use of social media platforms by Chartered Accountants for sharing any professional firm updates or articles.
Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?
2. Indian CA network firms formally registered with the ICAI are now legally permitted to develop and maintain their own network-level websites.
3. The revised guidelines completely prohibit the use of social media platforms by Chartered Accountants for sharing any professional firm updates or articles.
Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?
✅ Correct Answer: C
🎯 Quick Answer:
C. Only 3 is incorrect.Structural Breakdown: Statement 1 is correct; the Council recognized that CAs face fierce competition from non-CAs in areas like management consulting, and thus allowed proactive "push mode" digital marketing for non-exclusive services.
Statement 2 is correct; allowing network-level websites is a monumental shift designed to help Indian firms build massive, globally recognized brands to compete with the Big Four.
Statement 3 is incorrect; the revised rules actually expand the scope of "write-ups" and grant greater creative flexibility, fully permitting CAs to use modern social media to share professional updates and thought leadership, provided it doesn't cross into aggressive solicitation.
Historical/Related Context: The ICAI faced heavy pressure from domestic firms arguing that outdated, draconian advertising bans were preventing Indian CA firms from scaling up and acquiring international clients in the digital age.
Causal Reasoning: Permitting network websites and push-mode marketing for consulting levels the playing field, allowing indigenous CA networks to leverage modern digital SEO and branding strategies without violating core ethical boundaries regarding audit solicitation.