Firm Management

A recent 2024 U.S. Accounting and Tax Pricing Benchmark survey by Ignition highlights a significant shift in pricing strategies across professional services, offering crucial insights for valuation firms, many of which operate as part of CPA practices or independently. With 57% of firms planning to raise prices in the coming year, this trend signals both […]

Succession planning isn’t just about preparing for the inevitable departure of leaders—it’s about preserving the expertise, trust, and relationships that make your valuation firm unique. In an industry where precision, client confidence, and institutional knowledge are paramount, having a clear plan for leadership transitions is not just smart; it’s essential. “It’s not just about identifying

As private equity (PE) continues to reshape industries, valuation firms are increasingly exploring whether partnering with PE is the right exit strategy or growth accelerator for their practice. For owners of valuation firms, selling to a PE firm offers an attractive opportunity to unlock capital, drive strategic expansion, and access resources that might otherwise be

As business valuation professionals, understanding the current economic landscape and its impact on small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) is crucial. Recent findings from CBIZ’s Fall 2024 Main Street Index reveal significant staffing challenges faced by SMBs, which have important implications for valuation practices. Key Findings Strategies Adopted by SMBs To address these challenges, SMBs are

In a recent statement, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a strong warning to firms regarding employee monitoring practices, emphasizing transparency and consent. As tracking technology advances, many companies are using tools like algorithmic scores and third-party reports to monitor staff behavior, productivity, and even potential union organizing activities. The CFPB cautions against collecting

Recently, Ernst & Young (EY) dismissed dozens of employees in the U.S. for attending multiple online training courses simultaneously, a move that EY described as “appropriate disciplinary action” for an ethics violation. This decision highlights a significant issue for all professional services firms: the policies governing employee behavior, especially around ethics and multitasking in mandatory

Many boutique valuation firms use DealStats as their main source of transaction analysis. However, for members that deal with larger clients or even public company clients, FactSet may be more useful compared to DealStats. Some of the situations where FactSet may be more useful compared to DealStats are: How Much Does FactSet Cost? It’s important

Micromanagement often gets a bad rap. In many industries, it’s seen as a sign of distrust or lack of leadership, where overly controlling managers stifle creativity and autonomy. However, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky recently shared a different perspective, suggesting that micromanaging—when done correctly—can be a powerful tool for maintaining high standards, especially during periods of

As an independent business valuation firm partner, you’ve dedicated your career to helping businesses understand their true worth, plan for the future, and transition smoothly. But have you taken the time to plan for the future of your own firm? Succession planning is critical for partners of independent business valuation firms. A well-thought-out strategy ensures

The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA & CIMA) has announced the appointment of Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, as its incoming CEO. Koziel will take the helm of the organization beginning January 1, 2025, following a transition period. This appointment comes after a comprehensive global search to find a successor to Barry Melancon, who