Investor and ‘Shark Tank’ TV personality Kevin O’Leary has a message for companies still clinging to the idea of mandatory in-office work: you’re scaring off your best people. Flexibility Has Replaced The Cubicle “Cubicles are dead,” O’Leary said in a recent post on X. “Top programmers, accountants, and operators moved away and they’re not returning. If you force people back into offices, you’ll only hire the bottom quartile.” Don't Miss: The ‘ChatGPT of Marketing' Just Opened a $0.85/Share Round — 10,0 ...

Core Viewpoint - HWB, a UK-based accountancy practice, has promoted Lyndon Howes to assistant tax compliance manager in anticipation of increased demand for tax support due to upcoming regulatory changes [1][4]. Group 1: Promotion and Role - Lyndon Howes has been with HWB since 2011 and previously held the position of tax senior [1]. - His new role will involve responding to client queries and overseeing the Making Tax Digital (MTD) process [4]. Group 2: Regulatory Changes - HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) plans to expand its MTD initiative to include self-employed individuals and those with private rental income, effective from April 2026 for individuals with qualifying income above £50,000 ($68,893) [2]. - The MTD initiative aims to provide HMRC with a real-time view of tax liabilities, requiring registered individuals to use compatible software for electronic quarterly returns and a final end-of-year submission [3]. Group 3: Team Development - Two other members of the tax department, George Vass and Danny Hockin, have recently passed professional exams and are studying with the Chartered Institute of Taxation to become chartered tax advisers [4].

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Microsoft to expand the use of AI capabilities across the profession. The collaboration seeks to help finance professionals build skills for an AI-enabled workplace. ICAEW chief executive Alan Vallance said: “This collaboration reflects ICAEW’s commitment to helping members adopt emerging technologies in ways that are practical, responsible and aligned with professional standards. “Ch ...

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry. Core Insights - The global economy is expected to expand at a reasonable pace in 2026, supported by easing monetary policy, fiscal stimulus, and the ongoing AI boom, although the backdrop remains fragile and volatile due to heightened uncertainty and geopolitical risks [14][20][35]. Section Summaries Section 1: Prospects for the Global Economy in 2026 - The global economy is projected to grow at just over 3% in 2026, with the World Bank forecasting 3.1% and the IMF 3.3% [35][41]. - The US economy is expected to be the strongest performer among major advanced economies, with growth supported by fiscal stimulus and the AI boom, while growth in the UK and euro area is likely to remain sluggish [15][55]. - China is expected to moderate its growth to 4.4%, while India is projected to remain the fastest-growing major economy at 6.5% [19][69]. Section 2: Interview with Former IMF Chief Economist Ken Rogoff - Ken Rogoff describes the global economy as solid but cautions about significant uncertainty not reflected in financial markets, predicting a potential stock market fall in the next three years [20][81]. - He highlights the risks associated with President Trump's policies, particularly regarding trade and immigration, which may have long-term negative consequences for the US economy [84]. Section 3: Key Events in 2026 - Key political events include the US mid-term elections in November, which could impact President Trump's policy maneuverability [21][99]. - Developments in Europe, particularly regarding right-wing populist parties, will also be closely monitored, alongside significant elections in Japan and Brazil [102][107]. Section 4: Three Key Trends to Watch in 2026 - The report identifies three key trends: developments in AI, advanced economy bond markets, and global trade [22]. - The impact of AI on productivity and market sentiment will be crucial, as will the potential for rising government bond yields to negatively affect financial markets [22]. Section 5: Perspectives from Business Leaders - Business leaders express concerns about economic uncertainty and the need for resilience and adaptability in their respective regions [23]. - Wu Chen emphasizes a two-speed global economy, while Mike Fowler highlights the lack of a pro-business agenda in the UK [23]. Ebrima Sawaneh focuses on the importance of decarbonization and digital reliability for African economies [23].

Sorren, a tax, accounting and advisory group, has brought Hess & Rohmer into its national network, expanding its presence in the US state of Texas. The tie-up builds on Sorren’s existing base in Houston and connects Hess & Rohmer’s long-standing regional relationships with Sorren’s broader nationwide platform and capabilities. Hess & Rohmer was created in 1999 by Brian Hess and Melody Rohmer, with the company structured around a relationship-centric model of client service. Hess said: “The alignment in ...

The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) has set out its recommendations for the Hong Kong Government’s budget for 2026–27 fiscal year. The accounting body has submitted its proposals under the theme 'Reinforcing and enhancing Hong Kong’s strengths, innovation and talent for a bright and bold future'. The HKICPA proposes a package of tax and policy measures to enhance Hong Kong’s competitiveness, support growth and strengthen public finances. To attract investment, it suggests a ...

Accountancy services and business advice provider Xeinadin has acquired Grunberg to expand its footprint in London, UK. Grunberg is based in Colindale, north-west London, and serves both UK and international clients. It has been in business for more than 35 years and employs over 80 people. Grunberg managing partner Robert Bean said: “This move gives us the backing and breadth we need to grow with confidence. We have always had big ambitions, and to double in size over the next few years; we knew we need ...

This story was originally published on CFO.com. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily CFO.com newsletter. Nearly half of workers — regardless of their age — say they do not want management roles, potentially reshaping the leadership pipelines businesses depend on for the development of high-level finance talent.  That finding is based on a U.S. employee survey conducted by online resume builder Zety, which, in late 2025, captured how workers across generations view management, jo ...

Core Viewpoint - UK-based accountancy practice Phipps Henson McAllister (PHM) has appointed Andy Greenhalgh as the new head of audit to support the expansion of its client offerings and meet the increased demand for assurance services [1][4]. Group 1: Appointment and Background - Andy Greenhalgh has over 20 years of audit and advisory experience, particularly with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and owner-managed businesses, aligning well with PHM's core client base [2]. - Greenhalgh's role will focus on strengthening service delivery and providing insights to support client decision-making [2]. Group 2: Leadership and Vision - Greenhalgh expressed enthusiasm about leading the audit team, aiming to build on existing foundations, grow the audit department, and enhance value and insights for clients [3]. - PHM's managing partner, Ross Phipps, highlighted Greenhalgh's extensive experience and hands-on approach as key factors for his selection, emphasizing his ability to address core issues and deliver effective solutions [3][4]. Group 3: Company Overview - PHM was established in 1993 and operates from a single office in Northamptonshire, offering audit, tax, and advisory services to SMEs, businesses, and professional practices across the UK [4].

Core Insights - Self-assessment taxpayers in the UK overpaid £8.9 billion ($12.18 billion) in income tax last year, primarily due to the Payment on Account system which requires advance payments based on the previous year's tax bill [1][2] - Approximately 2.6 million individuals paid too much tax through self-assessment, with many potentially unaware of their eligibility for refunds [2] - HMRC does not automatically correct overpayments, requiring taxpayers to identify and apply for refunds themselves [2][4] Overpayment Causes - Common errors leading to overpayment include incorrect salary figures and failure to claim legitimate business expenses, resulting in taxation on non-existent profits [3] - Taxpayers are advised to be meticulous when completing self-assessment forms and to seek professional advice if uncertain [3] Repayment Delays - HMRC backlogs can cause significant delays in the repayment of overpaid taxes, with some taxpayers waiting 18 to 24 months for refunds [4] - It is emphasized that taxpayers must actively check their returns and follow up on potential overpayments to avoid losing out on refunds [5]