SEC Penalizes Deutsche Bank for Questionable Accounting Issues

Accounting mistakes can happen to anyone, whether you’re self-employed, have a small business with just a few employees, or you run a major corporation. However, even when mistakes happen, the consequences can be damaging. When those mistakes, or irregularities, involve large organizations like corporations, banks and financial institutions the consequences can be severe.

Recently, the U.S, Securities and Exchange Commission decided to fine Deutsche Bank for financial accounts that were reportedly misstated as the most recent financial crisis in 2008 and 2009 was reaching its peak. According to reports, U.S. officials stated that the bank undervalued the risk on its books by incorrectly accounting for so-called gap risk as they pertained to LSS trades. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission fined the bank $55 million for the alleged improprieties.

Deutsche Bank claimed that it used such procedures because there were no reliable models available at the time to properly measure gap risk. The problem with understating gap risk is that it could make it seem that the bank’s books were actually stronger than they really were. The $55 million fine finally brings to a close a prolonged investigation into the valuation of complex derivatives.

Accounting policies and practices are very important for anyone, but especially public corporations that are under the watchful eye of the Securities and Exchange Commission. At GROCO we can help your company or financial institution, large or small, with all of its accounting needs. Just contact us for assistance by clicking here, or call us at 1-877-CPA-2006.

Posted in

Keys to Empowering Others

  A common characteristic of many good leaders is the ability to delegate responsibility. One way that this can be done is by empowering others with the ability to also lead. Empowering someone else can be an excellent tool to achieve even greater success, both for the company and the individual. So how do you…

Top Tax Tips for Business Owners

  Chances are if you run your own business then you are always looking for ways to get, and stay ahead, especially when it comes to paying your taxes. They are so many different things to track and organize when it comes to business taxes, but keeping a few simple tips in mind can make…

Wealthy Californians Keep Paying More in Taxes

  The tax numbers are in for the state of California and all signs point to the wealthy paying more than their fair share. With tax day now behind us it’s a key time to take a closer look into the real numbers in the Golden state, especially since income taxes account for more than…

Angel Investing: As Easy as 1-2-3

  In my profession I meet with a lot of investors, mainly venture capitalists and angel investors.  When meeting with many of these investors I like to learn their thought process of determining whether or not a company is worth their time and resources. Monty Kersten, Independent Board Member and Angel Investor told me the…