KPMG Netherlands Fined $25M for Widespread Exam Cheating

The record penalty reflects systemic misconduct involving senior leaders and numerous employees from 2017 to 2022.

KPMG Netherlands has been hit with a $25 million fine by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) for failing to prevent widespread cheating on professional exams.
The scandal involved improper sharing of answers among hundreds of employees, including senior leaders and partners.
Former head of assurance at KPMG Netherlands, Marc Hogeboom, has been fined $150,000 and permanently barred from working with U.S. audited firms.
KPMG has taken steps to revise its training and monitoring systems to prevent future misconduct.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of ethical issues within the 'Big Four' accounting firms, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining professional standards.