These negative examples ultimately led to the Counter-Reformation and the Council of Trent (1545-1563), which led to the establishment of stricter internal oversight and ethical constraints within the Vatican. The modern Vatican's financial transparency and ethical standards are far more stringent than those of that era.
The Vatican has multiple financial departments within the Vatican, providing checks and balances. Various institutions, such as the Apostolic Finance and the Secretariat of State, participate in financial management, providing internal oversight. Major financial decisions often require the participation of the College of Cardinals, providing a framework for collective decision-making.
The Vatican has established a relatively comprehensive accounting system, requiring detailed records and supporting documentation for all major expenditures. Regular financial reviews and reporting also serve as oversight. The modern Vatican has also introduced external auditing bodies.