Definition
Transactions with no economic substance.
Context
Round-tripping typically occurs in the context of financial statement manipulation and revenue recognition and is closely linked to improper asset valuation, improper disclosures, and management fraud. It is often observed in complex group structures or related-party transactions.
Meaning
Used to artificially inflate revenue, liquidity, or business activity and distort the economic reality.
Example
Reciprocal billing schemes.
Sources
Suggested citation
wirtschaftsforensik.ch Editorial Team: "Round-Tripping", in: Glossary, wirtschaftsforensik.ch, https://wirtschaftsforensik.ch/glossar/round-tripping/, accessed April 18, 2026.