ICOAF-2025: AN INTERNATIONAL ACADEMIC FORUM PROMOTING INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE
On June 20, 2025, the 10th International Conference on Accounting and Finance (ICOAF – 2025) officially opened at the University of Economics – The University of Danang, marking a meaningful return to its “place of origin” on the occasion of the University’s 50th anniversary. The event attracted more than 100 delegates, including scholars, experts, lecturers, and policymakers from Vietnam and abroad, who gathered to share knowledge and discuss pressing issues facing the modern economy.
In his opening remarks, Assoc. Prof. Doan Ngoc Phi Anh, Vice Rector of the University, emphasized the special role of ICOAF – 2025 not only as an academic forum but also as evidence of global efforts to advance knowledge, connect the research community, and contribute to addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change, technological innovation, and sustainable development.
During the morning plenary session, Professor Tom Smith from Macquarie University (Australia) presented the paper “Economic and Business Development in the New Era,” focusing on how global financial markets are adapting to environmental risks and policy changes. He introduced new asset pricing models incorporating environmental factors and highlighted the role of sustainable financial instruments in promoting a low-carbon economy.
In the afternoon, Mr. Ren Varma, representing ACCA, continued the academic discussion with the topic “Evolving Roles of Financial Professionals and Skills Needed – 2030 and Beyond.” He highlighted essential skills for future finance professionals, including the application of artificial intelligence, in-depth knowledge of ESG, and professional ethics. He also proposed collaboration strategies among universities, businesses, and professional organizations to train a financial workforce capable of adapting to digital transformation and globalization.
In addition to the plenary sessions, the Conference organized nine specialized sessions featuring a total of 52 rigorously selected scientific papers. Discussion topics ranged from sustainable finance, digitalization, and corporate governance to climate risks, reflecting the growing global concern for interdisciplinary and urgent issues. These dynamic sessions not only opened new research directions but also strengthened academic connections and collaboration among domestic and international researchers.
At the closing session, the Conference honored outstanding research works with the Best Paper Award:
1. Shin-Rong Shiah-Hou with the paper “The Impact of CFO's Expertise in Financial/Accounting and Non-Financial/Non-Accounting on Corporate Financial Policy.”
2. Tung Lam Dang, Duc Trung Do, Ly Ho, and Yue Lu with the paper “Carbon Risk and Cash Holding Adjustment Speed: Global Evidence.”
ICOAF – 2025 was not only an academic milestone marking a historic moment for the University of Economics – UD, but also a global knowledge bridge contributing to the development of innovative solutions for a more sustainable and effective future in Accounting and Finance.
Source: University of Economics – The University of Danang