Reach for the SSARS – Or Don’t
The AICPA’s Statement on Standards for Accounting and Review Services (SSARS) No. 27 excludes financial statements prepared via consulting engagement from AR-C Section 70. Review the implications of SSARS 27, particularly for write up practices, and determine when financial statements should be prepared under Consulting Standards instead of SSARS.
Kurt Oestriecher, CPA – Partner, Oestriecher & Company, Alexandria, LA

Yes, You Can! Strategies to Assure Your Firm's Ongoing Independence and Sustainability
Interest in larger accounting firms among private equity investors is nothing new, however, in recent years direct investments have expanded into mid-size and small firms. Discuss the current environment that is contributing to the private equity activity in public accounting, and explore the trade-offs between merging and shepherding a sustainable, independent firm. Then, define critical cultural attributes and must have strategies, including AI, to position for growth without PE investment.
Samantha Mansfield – ConvergenceCoaching, LLC, Waterford

Tax Advisory Tool: Retirement Plan Strategies for Small Business
Retirement plans can be powerful tax and planning tools for small business owners. Explore plan designs and learn how to identify opportunities through tax returns, payroll data, compensation structures, and entity selection so you can turn routine tax discussions into higher-value advisory conversations.
Victor Hicks II, CFP, AIF – Wealth Advisor, Managing Director, Perigon Wealth Management

Bring your best ideas, experiences and questions to swap with peers and other professionals during this moderated event.

Bring your best ideas, experiences and questions to swap with peers and other professionals during this moderated event.

Bring your best ideas, experiences and questions to swap with peers and other professionals during this moderated event.

Beyond P&Ls and Forecasting: Meaningful Data Storytelling
Clients need more than spreadsheets to make meaningful decisions. Move beyond traditional P&Ls and bring data to life with clarity, context and confidence by discovering techniques to transform financial reports, KPIs, tax data and forecasting outputs into meaningful narratives that clients can fully understand and act upon.
Brad Messner – Vice President & Enrolled Agent, Messner & Fox, LLC, New Stanton, PA

From Sportsbooks to Slots: Navigating Gambling Tax Rules
The rapid expansion of gambling apps and legalization of sports betting can create additional complexities for CPAs and firms whose clients may be unfamiliar with IRS reporting requirements for winnings and losses. Review the federal tax treatment of lawful gambling activities, including common gray areas, and become familiarized with applicable forms W-2G and Schedule A. Then, examine emerging issues associated with online betting platforms.
Allison M. McLeod, LL.M., CPA – Allison M McLeod, LL.M, CPA A PLLC, Denton, TX

Donating Cryptocurrency and Avoiding Traps for the Unwary
As cryptocurrency and digital assets continue to rise in popularity, more donors are choosing to contribute them to charitable organizations. Accounting for these assets, however, is an evolving process for both beneficiaries and taxpayers making the donation. Review the most recent reporting standards and rules, including current classifications of digital assets. Plus, determine how to properly assess the value of digital donations as well as how to differentiate between required substantiation based on their associated amount.
Allison M. McLeod, LL.M., CPA – Allison M McLeod, LL.M, CPA A PLLC, Denton, TX

Quality Management & Peer Review
New AICPA quality management standards became effective on Dec. 15, 2025, creating big changes in firm processes. Review lessons learned from implementation and develop practical strategies to ensure your next peer review is smooth and successful.
Joseph M. Verlin, CPA, CGFM – Principal in Charge of Audit Services, Gabridge & Company PLC, Grand Rapids