What is the Difference between continuous audit and periodical audit?

Continuous audit involves the ongoing evaluation of a company's financial transactions and processes in real-time or near-real-time, allowing for immediate detection of discrepancies and issues. In contrast, a periodical audit is conducted at specific intervals, such as annually or quarterly, and focuses on reviewing financial records and compliance over that defined period. Continuous audits provide more timely insights and can facilitate quicker corrective actions, while periodical audits offer a comprehensive overview of financial health at set intervals.