Core Insights - Xeinadin, a UK-based accounting firm, has acquired Cooper Dawn Jerrom (CDJ), enhancing its presence in London and expanding its expertise in key trading sectors [1][5] Company Overview - CDJ is recognized for its association with the Western International Market and offers a range of financial services, including audit, accountancy, and tax advisory [1] - The firm specializes in payroll management and business consulting, particularly for family-run businesses and international trading entities [2] Community Engagement - CDJ has actively participated in community projects, notably collaborating with The Felix Project to redirect over 1,200 tonnes of edible surplus food to vulnerable populations in London [3] - The firm is involved in community-oriented programs, including partnerships with food-redistribution charities, which help manage costs in a challenging sector [2] Strategic Fit - CDJ partners expressed that Xeinadin's understanding of modern accounting demands, such as AI and compliance, was a key factor in the merger [4] - The acquisition is expected to provide CDJ with the necessary infrastructure to better support clients facing rising costs, staffing shortages, and regulatory changes [4] Client Benefits - Clients will have access to Xeinadin's cloud-based tools and specialist advisory services while continuing to work with the existing local team [5] - Xeinadin's CEO highlighted that CDJ embodies the type of practice the firm aims to integrate, emphasizing community trust and forward-thinking approaches [5]

Core Insights - There is a significant concern regarding the low uptake of R&D tax credits in Northern Ireland, with only 1,305 claims made in the 2023/24 tax year, representing a 22% decrease from the previous year [1][2] - Despite substantial investments in R&D activities, including £245 million ($329.2 million) for 726 projects supported by Invest NI in the 2024/25 period, the engagement with the R&D Tax Credit scheme remains lower than expected [2] - The upcoming £100 million Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) led by Queen's University, set to open in 2026, is anticipated to encourage more companies to apply for R&D Tax Credits [3] Industry Context - Northern Ireland has a strong reputation for innovation across various sectors, including aerospace, biomedical research, and digital innovation, yet the low number of R&D claims indicates potential limitations for future growth [4] - R&D tax relief is crucial for supporting innovation, particularly for SMEs, as it aids in product development, creates skilled jobs, and attracts further investment [5] - The lack of eligible companies claiming R&D tax relief could hinder growth in sectors where Northern Ireland already holds a competitive advantage [5]

Core Insights - Dains Group has acquired Curo, a UK-based firm specializing in audit, tax, accounting, and advisory services, marking its fourth acquisition since receiving backing from IK Partners [1][2] Company Overview - Curo was founded in 2005 by Anna Madden and Julia Gallagher and has built a diverse client base, serving both UK and international clients [1] - The existing team at Curo will continue operations in Bromsgrove, led by co-founders Madden and Gallagher [3] Strategic Intent - The acquisition aims to enhance Dains Group's capabilities in delivering complex audits and cross-border tax work while maintaining a personal approach to client service [4] - Dains Group's CEO Richard McNeilly emphasized that Curo's reputation for technical excellence and strong client relationships aligns well with Dains' strengths [3][4] Advisory and Support - Dains received advisory services from DSW, PDW, Cyber Crowd, and Mercia for due diligence, while Curo was guided by Transcend Corporate for corporate finance and Shakespeare Martineau for legal matters [3]

Core Insights - Forvis Mazars has appointed ten new partners in its UK offices, reflecting an investment in workforce and talent development [1][6] - The new partners bring diverse expertise in audit, tax, and financial planning, enhancing the firm's service offerings [1][2] - The appointments are part of a strategy to strengthen various sectors, including Infrastructure, Energy, and Technology Assurance [1][4] Partner Appointments - Karishma Merchant will oversee the Infrastructure and Energy sector, bringing over 20 years of experience [1] - Josh Thorneycroft leads Debt Advisory, focusing on service expansion through recruitment and collaboration [2] - Paul Simmons is tasked with leading the financial planning team, specifically for the Private Client business in London [2] Sector Focus - Mark Saldua will lead regulatory liaison and internal quality monitoring, enhancing audit impairment services [2][3] - Robbie White heads the Data Analytics Hub, focusing on custom analytics and automation solutions [3] - Richard Tidball will lead corporate tax services with a national focus on restructuring and insolvency [3] Regional Developments - Tommy Cooke aims to grow the Milton Keynes audit practice, focusing on large and listed audits [4] - Simon Withington will spearhead Technology Assurance within the Consulting practice in Newcastle [4] - Sean Cockburn is set to expand the International Private Client business in Scotland, focusing on cross-border taxation [5] Leadership Statements - CEO James Gilbey emphasized the firm's commitment to talent development and delivering an unparalleled client experience [6]

Core Insights - MGI Worldwide has welcomed MGI Ryan, a Dublin-based accountancy firm, as a new member in the UK and Ireland region, enhancing its global network [1][5] - MGI Ryan has been operational since 1933, offering a range of services including assurance, audit, taxation, corporate finance, business development, and corporate recovery [1] - The firm serves a diverse clientele, including local businesses and international companies that may not receive adequate services from larger accounting firms [1] Company Strategy - MGI Ryan's managing partner, Derek Ryan, emphasized that joining MGI Worldwide is a strategic move to meet modern professional service needs, allowing the firm to provide expertise globally [2] - The membership facilitates collaboration among MGI members, aligning with MGI Ryan's firm ethos and enhancing service offerings to clients [2][3] Commitment to Global Network - MGI Ryan is dedicated to actively participating in the MGI Worldwide community, engaging in international conferences and events to foster connections and share ideas [3] - The adoption of the MGI prefix is intended to enhance the firm's visibility and credibility, signaling its association with a respected global brand [3][4] Competitive Advantage - The affiliation with MGI Worldwide strengthens MGI Ryan's credibility in competing for cross-border work, reassuring multinational clients of consistent standards while maintaining local independence [4]

Core Insights - RSM has been named a supplier on three government frameworks, enhancing its position in the public sector following strategic investments in its practice [1][4] - The agreements with the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) allow RSM to provide a range of services including internal and external audit, counter fraud investigation, and management consultancy [2][4] - RSM's public sector practice has experienced a 30% growth, supported by strategic team enhancements and recruitment of experienced professionals [5] Group 1 - RSM is included in the Audit & Assurance Services Two (A&AS2) framework, allowing it to offer various audit and assurance services [1][2] - The company has also been appointed to the Management Consultancy Services Framework Four (MCF4), focusing on strategy, finance, and transformation [2][4] - RSM has been reappointed to the NHS SBS Audit Services for Health framework, providing a range of governance and audit services [4][5] Group 2 - RSM's strategic investment includes expanding its UK team and leveraging expertise from its global network, particularly from the US, Canada, and Ireland [3][5] - The company aims to address significant public sector challenges and promote sustainable change through its services [4][5] - Recent recruitment efforts include bringing in a tax partner focused on the energy sector, indicating a targeted approach to client service [6]