THE ROLE OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN FINANCIAL REPORTING QUALITY UNDER THE TRUST SERVICES FRAMEWORK

Abstract

 This study examines the impact of Digital Transformation (DT) on the Financial Reporting Quality (FRQ), taking into account the moderating role of the Trust Services Framework (TSF), in the context of rapid developments in the digital business environment and the resulting challenges and opportunities for accounting and financial systems. To achieve the study objectives, a descriptive–analytical approach was adopted, and a questionnaire was used as the primary data collection instrument. The study sample comprised 87 professionals working in accounting and financial functions. DT was measured through four dimensions: cloud computing, automation, data analytics, and systems integration. FRQ was assessed using the dimensions of accuracy and reliability, timeliness, transparency, and verifiability. The TSF was operationalized through five dimensions: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. A five-point Likert scale was employed to measure respondents’ perceptions, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modelling to test the study hypotheses. The findings indicate that DT has a statistically significant positive effect on the dimensions of the TSF; however, it does not exert a direct significant effect on FRQ. The results further reveal that availability and processing integrity have a significant positive influence on enhancing FRQ, whereas security, confidentiality, and privacy do not demonstrate a direct significant effect. The study concludes that the impact of DT on FRQ is realized indirectly through selected dimensions of the TSF, underscoring the importance of prioritizing the operational effectiveness of digital systems alongside regulatory and governance considerations.