Certified Financial Management Specialist Practice Exam

Which type of risk can be analyzed by measuring control effectiveness?

1. Operational Risk

2. Price Risk

3. Compliance Risk

4. Strategic Risk

The correct answer is: Operational Risk

Operational risk is characterized by the potential for losses resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people, and systems, or from external events. Measuring control effectiveness directly relates to operational risk because it involves evaluating the systems and processes in place to prevent failures or inefficiencies. By analyzing how well controls operate—such as policies, procedures, and operational processes—organizations can identify areas of weakness and strengthen their overall risk management framework. This proactive approach helps mitigate operational risks by ensuring that adequate measures are maintained to safeguard against potential disruptions. In contrast, while compliance risk pertains to the possibility of failing to adhere to laws and regulations, and strategic risk is related to the potential losses from poor business decisions or lack of response to market changes, they do not primarily focus on the effectiveness of internal control measures. Price risk, often associated with fluctuations in the value of assets, is further removed from the analysis of control effectiveness. Thus, understanding and measuring operational control effectiveness is central to managing operational risk effectively.