Why Accountants Need to Understand Blockchain: Interview with Erica Pimentel

Do accountants need to become literate in new technologies such as blockchain? Erica Pimentel conducted research on the confidence auditors have on their understanding of blockchain technologies and the limitations that can put on engagements with startup clients in the blockchain space. There is a lot of opportunity for assurance and verification in the blockchain space which is being filled right now by assurance providers native to the blockchain space, while it could be a natural role played by accountants.Many startups in blockchain are not aware of the value which could be brought by having accountants verify their books, provide internal controls and strategic advice.Accounting curriculums will have to change as accountants will need to be literate in new technologies such as basic programming understanding.How do professionals find meaning at work, specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic? Working from home has greatly affected the working experience by work becoming mostly virtual as well as the uncertainty of job security.How are relationships affected by physical interaction being replaced by Zoom interactions? Some things such as information sharing is relatively doable, while other things such as learning from a mentor or an employer firing an employee are more difficult to be done virtually.