In auditing fixed assets, why might the auditor decide to assess control risk at the maximum and perform predominantly substantive testing?

(a) The number of additions to/disposals of fixed assets is usually not a material number — therefore, it is not of concern to the auditor.

(b) Fixed assets in total are material. All material balances should be tested using a substantive approach.

(c) The controls over fixed assets for most companies are usually poor.

(d) It is more economical to audit fixed assets using substantive testing because of the relatively few associated transactions compared with other balances.

Choose the best answer.