Behind the Numbers: Rebuilding trust in volatile times

Accountancy Insights is celebrating its 100th episode.

To mark the occasion, we’ve brought together experts from across business, politics and technology to look at a fundamental problem that’s holding back economic growth: trust. Just how deep is the trust crisis in business and institutions that we hear so much about? And how can it possibly be rebuilt as economic volatility persists?

We set the scene by discussing President Trump’s recent trade negotiations. Next, as Marks & Spencer continues to grapple with its near-catastrophic cyber attack, we explore how businesses can best protect themselves against the escalating risk of cybercrime. And finally, we speak with ICAEW Chief Executive Alan Vallance and Baroness Margaret Ford, Chair of the newly launched Centre for Public Interest Audit, on remedying the impact of high-profile corporate failures on public confidence in business.

This episode is available in both audio and video formats. Join thousands who have already subscribed to Accountancy Insights so that you never miss an episode.

Time codes

• 01:19 Navigating trade and tariffs
• 20:47 Guarding against cybercrime
• 30:05 Strengthening public confidence
• 49:57 Final thoughts

Links 

• ICAEW Economy hub: https://www.icaew.com/technical/economy
• ICAEW Cyber Security hub: https://www.icaew.com/technical/technology/cyber-security 
• ICAEW Trust and Ethics hub: https://www.icaew.com/technical/trust-and-ethics
• The Centre for Public Interest Audit: https://www.cpia.org.uk 

Host

Philippa Lamb

Guests

• Alan Vallance, Chief Executive Officer, ICAEW
• Baroness Margaret Ford, Chair, The Centre for Public Interest Audit
• Iain Wright, Chief Policy and Communications Officer, ICAEW
• Frances Haque, Chief Economist, Santander UK
• David Williamson, Chief Political Commentator, Sunday Express
• Paul Munson, EU Compliance Lead, Rippling

Producer

Natalie Chisholm

Episode first published: 30 May 2025

Podcast recorded: 20 May 2025