Look at more than cost when switching auditors

this blog post emphasizes the importance of auditor independence http://blogs.wsj.com/cfo/2013/12/09/auditor-switches-may-get-closer-look/?mod=djemCFO_h

Nonaudit services and consulting

PCAOB to pick up the topic of nonaudit services and consulting to examine issues related to audits.
http://journalofaccountancy.com/News/20139220.htm

Continuous auditing and monitoring

What firms are doing and can do with continuous auditing and monitoring
http://www.aicpa.org/InterestAreas/FRC/AssuranceAdvisoryServices/DownloadableDocuments/Whitepaper_Current-State-Continuous-Auditing-Monitoring.pdf

2013 release of corrupt countries

The report of Transparency International was released - some changes since last year.  The article also contains a link to the full listing.  http://www.complianceweek.com/2013-corruption-perceptions-index-lists-most-corrupt-countries/article/323602/

Audit Partner information over time

Researchers and investors could track this information  if it is made public.  Comment letters are solicited through Feb 3.  http://journalofaccountancy.com/News/20139200.htm

Debate on naming audit partner to ensue per PCAOB proposal

See the attached article which provides discussion and context http://journalofaccountancy.com/News/20139121.htm

Audit quality problems discussed

in this post   http://grumpyoldaccountants.com/blog/2013/11/26/paper-tiger-becomes-tony-the-tiger-theyre-grrrreat