The Accounting Podcast

Is private equity turning firms into a 'dumpster fire'? Blake and David unpack Accounting Today's survey showing partners are upbeat while staff are sour on PE. They hit Andersen's $176M IPO, why Big Four ties to Big Tech raise independence questions, and how AI could finally kill the billable hour. Plus, what tax pros really charge in 2025 - and the wild 'Middle Finger Ranch' fraud.


Chapters

• (00:56) - Private Equity in Accounting Firms
• (01:51) - Sponsor Message: OnPay Payroll Solutions
• (04:15) - Arthur Andersen's Legacy and IPO
• (07:45) - Private Equity Survey Results
• (21:04) - Big Four and Tech Giants
• (28:25) - Pricing Models for CAS Engagements
• (30:22) - Tax Preparers' Fees Breakdown
• (36:12) - Cloud Accountant Staffing
• (37:34) - Economic Growth and Consumer Spending
• (40:26) - Fraud Stories: Middle Finger Ranch and More
• (43:24) - PCAOB Budget Cuts and Enforcement Actions
• (52:29) - IRS Readiness for Tax Season
• (53:43) - Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

 

PE in accounting firms: From 'dumpster fire' to excitement

 

Andersen Group Shares Gain 47% After $176 Million US IPO

 

Andersen goes public, hits $2.6B valuation

 

The Big Four consulting firms are embedded in Big Tech. Here's who audits each of the Magnificent 7 companies

 

What do tax preparers charge? 

 

How much do tax professionals charge in 2025? Insights from NATP's Fee Study

 

U.S. economic growth surges in third quarter to 4.3%

 

The US economy expanded at the fastest pace in two years as wealthier Americans kept spending 

 

Kansas accountant diverted family funds to fictitious 'Middle Finger Ranch'

 

Kansas Accountant, Who Created Fictitious 'Middle Finger Ranch' for Fraud Scheme, Sentenced to 4 Years in Jail

 

PCAOB to tighten budget in 2026 

 

PCAOB Approves 2026 Budget 

 

Accounting Firms Must Stop Charging for Time

 

Dirty money gangster jailed over plot worth almost £12m

 

PCAOB Sanctions CPA for Violations Related to Audit Evidence and Her Former Audit Firm for Quality Control Issues

 

Ahead of Tax Filing Season, Warren, King, 15 Senators Warn of Tax Filing Chaos After Trump Admin Attacks on IRS

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The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page