The audit and regulatory environment of professional investor funds in Malta

Abstract

Purpose: This dissertation was undertaken in order to understand and investigate how the audit of Professional Investor Funds is conducted and the regulatory framework within which these funds operate. Design: The dissertation focused on a number of semi-structured interviews with auditors working in this industry who explained how such audits are performed and gave their insight on the regulatory environment. Findings: It was found that very similar procedures are carried out in general by the auditors. However these procedures differ from those in audits of other companies and are very much dependent on the structure of the Professional Investor Fund and what it invests in. Malta has a very attractive regulatory framework for such funds and is expected to continue to grow in this area. Conclusions: Malta is well placed to continue to grow as a fund jurisdiction for these types of funds. However its resources are beginning to get stretched and this must be dealt with if growth is to be sustained. Audit firms in this field appear to be ii competent and are continuously learning as they go along in light of changing market conditions. Implications: The authorities must direct more resources towards this industry, ensuring that both the regulator and the various players within are able to draw upon adequate human resources.