Kiel professor wins Best Paper Award for financial research in Lucerne

Kiel professor wins Best Paper Award for financial research in Lucerne

In the world of science and research there is always news that causes a stir. The most recent event in Lucerne, where experts and researchers came together at the renowned CARF research conference, is particularly exciting. Our region is also proud of the commitment of professors and universities who achieve excellent results with their contributions. One of the flowers in the science garden is Prof. Dr. Karsten Eisenschmidt from Kiel University of Applied Sciences, who recently won the Best Paper Award!

Like the Kiel University of Applied Sciences reported, Prof. Eisenschmidt's excellent work entitled “Market concentration in the auditing industry” was recognized for its outstanding results on practice and teaching in the financial sector. What is particularly interesting is that the study examines the market structure of audit services for capital market-oriented companies in Germany. The question that arises here is whether the external rotation requirement of the Audit Reform Act (AReG) has actually influenced the oligopolistic structures in the industry.

An in-depth look into the industry structure

For his research, Prof. Eisenschmidt carried out a comprehensive analysis based on a full survey of the market. The results, collected over a five-year period, show an extremely concentrated market, with the Big Four audit firms – Deloitte, EY, KPMG and PwC – clearly dominating. However, despite the new regulations, no significant competition can be observed. There is simply a rotation within these large companies, while systemic risks remain.

The CARF conference has been providing a platform for applied research in corporate management and accounting for many years. Prof. Eisenschmidt, who has been attending this conference since 2016, not only made important contacts there, but also launched new research projects together with colleagues. Next year he has further ambitions: he plans to present an academic article on the role of large accounting firms and the associated risks.

A second award for innovative university didactics

But Prof. Eisenschmidt was not the only winner at CARF 2025. The Best Paper Award in the area of ​​teaching went to another outstanding contribution. The team of Prof. Dr. Jörn Littkemann, Prof. Dr. Janina Matern, Brigitte Ehmer and Alexander Barth presented their research on “Gamification in University Learning Apps”. This work shows how playful elements in learning apps can increase the motivation and endurance of students. The use of the “BWL Champion” app is particularly exciting, as it aims to make the learning process more interactive and entertaining.

In another important topic area, the German UNESCO Commission, together with the Volkswagen Foundation, is opening the call for papers for the international conference “Charting New Horizons for Education for Sustainable Development”. This will take place from November 19th to 21st, 2025 in the Xplanatorium in Herrenhausen Castle in Hanover. Like on the UNESCO website can be read, contributions should be submitted on the role of education in shaping a sustainable future, with a particular focus on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in higher education.

This conference offers an excellent opportunity to discuss interdisciplinary approaches to ESD and to provide a platform for innovative impulses in research and practice. It is important to develop ideas and strategies that contribute to the sustainability of our education systems.

The current developments in university research are exciting and illustrate the dynamic landscape of science and teaching. The commitment of professors and universities can make a significant contribution to a more sustainable and fair future.