The biennial Trust Survey found that 87% of senior business and finance decision-makers in Scotland trust Chartered Accountants “to do the right thing” – ahead of scientists (84%), engineers (84%), doctors (83%), academics (70%), and lawyers (65%). This is a significant increase in trust in the profession, jumping 12 points since 2023, and is higher than seen in the rest of the UK who scored 84% in England and 77% in Wales.

Trust in the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) has also grown by 10 points, rising from 74% in 2023 to 84% in 2025. This positive result highlights the impact of ICAS’ work to nurture trust in the profession. It also reinforces the prestige associated with the ‘CA’ designation – an exclusive identifier that only those who have qualified as Chartered Accountants with ICAS can use after their name.

Other key survey findings include:

• 88% of respondents say Chartered Accountants play a vital role in helping businesses adapt to new challenges72% say their organisation relies on Chartered Accountants for strategic guidance.
• Operating with compliance to laws and regulations (58%) and being able to rely on them to inform key business decisions (51%) were listed by those who took part in the survey as key drivers of trust in Chartered Accountants.
• Three quarters of respondents believe Chartered Accountants are essential in guiding Scottish businesses through automation adoption, and 68% viewing them as drivers of business AI investment. 

Bruce Cartwright CA, CEO of ICAS, said: “Trust is the foundation of our profession so it’s heartening to see that Chartered Accountants are trusted more than any other profession in Scotland. This is a clear reflection of the value our members bring to the Scottish economy and the vital role they play as stewards of financial integrity.

“At ICAS, our motto is ‘Seek the Truth’ - a principle that underpins our work to champion ethical leadership and educate the trusted professionals of tomorrow. This study affirms our critical role and positive impact as a distinctly Scottish voice on the global accountancy stage.”

Ainslie van Onselen, chair of CAW, added: “Trust is becoming more fragile across institutions, but this data confirms that Chartered Accountants continue to buck the trend.

“In a climate dominated by AI, disinformation, and societal pressure for accountability, our profession is increasingly seen not just as technically skilled, but as essential guardians of trustworthy data and ethical leadership.”

The survey also highlights a growing talent shortage in Scotland, with 7 in 10 respondents warning that the Chartered Accountancy profession is facing a skills gap. To secure its future, 78% of believe the profession must modernise its image to attract new generations, while 76% emphasise the importance of technological upskilling to make the profession more appealing.

ICAS has taken significant strides to address these challenges by leading the evolution of accountancy education. Last year saw the introduction of its overhauled CA qualification - a future-looking syllabus designed to equip future accountants with the skills to stay ahead of the demands of the modern business landscape.

In the face of rising misinformation and technological advancements, this redefined training approach ensures the next generation of accountants are prepared to navigate AI-related challenges and other non-financial risks with an ethical mindset.