
PwC's accounting podcast
Listen in as PwC specialists discuss today’s most compelling accounting, reporting, and business issues. Whether financial reporting or sustainability reporting, each episode is packed with insights you won't find anywhere else.
Latest episodes

Apr 15, 2025 • 35min
Reporting reset – Stock-based compensation
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.We continue our back-to-basics series on financial statement presentation and disclosure with an episode focused on stock-based compensation. This episode breaks down the key presentation and disclosure principles and how stock-based compensation is reflected in each of the financial statements.In this episode, we discuss:0:55 – Stock-based compensation presentation in the:1:09 – Balance sheet9:36 – Income statement11:34 – Statement of cash flows18:29 – Statement of stockholders’ equity20:58 – Key stock-based compensation disclosure requirementsFor more information, see chapter 15 of our Financial statement presentation guide and our Stock-based compensation guide. You can also listen to the other episodes in this miniseries: Reporting reset – Presentation fundamentals Reporting reset – Fair value disclosures Reporting reset – Consolidation disclosuresBe sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest thought leadership.About our guest Ken Stoler is a partner in PwC’s National Office who specializes in financial reporting and plan design issues related to equity compensation arrangements, retirement and healthcare plans, and other benefits. He has helped companies navigate their employee compensation issues during IPOs, spin offs, acquisitions, and other major transactions or events. About our host Heather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. She is also the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

Apr 10, 2025 • 41min
Sustainability now: Foundational reporting concepts
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.com.We're excited to continue our video podcast series on the foundations of sustainability reporting. Now watch along with our sustainability specialists as they discuss the latest on sustainability.In this episode, we explore the foundational concepts that underpin sustainability reporting. From qualitative characteristics and connectivity with financial statements to measurement approaches and general disclosure requirements, we break down what preparers need to know under both the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) standards.In this episode, we discuss:1:52 – An overview of the foundations of sustainability reporting3:10 – The qualitative characteristics of sustainability reporting under ESRS and ISSB standards15:29 – Connectivity with the financial statements 18:12 – Three steps to develop quantitative measurements29:31 – General disclosure requirements under ESRS and ISSB standardsLooking for the latest developments in sustainability reporting?Read Chapter 5 of PwC’s Sustainability reporting guide, Foundations of sustainability reportingFollow our series and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loopAbout our guestDiana Stoltzfus is a partner in the National Office who helps to shape PwC’s perspectives on regulatory matters, responses to rulemakings, and policy development, and implementation related to significant new rules and regulations. Prior to rejoining PwC, Diana was the Deputy Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where she led the activities of the Professional Practices Group within the OCA.About our hostHeather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. She is also the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

Apr 8, 2025 • 27min
Reporting reset – Consolidation disclosures
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.We continue our back-to-basics series on financial statement presentation with an episode focused on consolidation disclosures. These disclosures can be complex, covering both consolidated entities – such as variable interest entities (VIEs) and voting interest entities (VOEs) – as well as variable interests in VIEs that are not consolidated. This episode breaks down the relevant frameworks, presentation principles, and disclosure requirements.In this episode, we discuss:2:00 – The purpose of consolidated financial statements and the guiding frameworks5:50 – General consolidation presentation and disclosure principles8:00 – Principles and objectives for the presentation and disclosure of variable interests in VIEs, including from the perspective of:12:22 – A holder of variable interests in a VIE, regardless of primary beneficiary status14:21 – A primary beneficiary of a VIE16:17 – An entity with variable interests in VIEs for which it is not the primary beneficiary20:35 – Presentation and disclosure considerations for VOEsFor more information, see chapter 18 of our Financial statement presentation guide and our Consolidation guide. You can also listen to the other episodes in this miniseries:Reporting reset – Presentation fundamentalsReporting reset – Fair value disclosuresAbout our guestsAlexander Martin is a partner in PwC's Deals practice who specializes in helping clients solve complex accounting, financial reporting, and business issues arising from deals, structured transactions, and other transformational events. With over 15 years of experience, Alexander has deep expertise in US GAAP and SEC reporting, gained through his roles as an advisor in PwC's Deals practice, a regulator at the SEC, and most recently as a partner in PwC's National Office.Matt Sabatini is a partner in PwC's National Office who helps clients and engagement teams navigate the accounting and financial reporting for complex transactions. He specializes in the accounting for M&A, consolidations, corporate reorganizations, recapitalizations, joint ventures, and other investments.About our guest hostDiana Stoltzfus is a partner in the National Office who helps to shape PwC’s perspectives on regulatory matters, responses to rulemakings, and policy development, and implementation related to significant new rules and regulations. Prior to rejoining PwC, Diana was the Deputy Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where she led the activities of the Professional Practices Group within the OCA.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

Apr 3, 2025 • 52min
Sustainability now: Materiality matters
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.com.We're excited to continue our video podcast series on the foundations of sustainability reporting. Now watch along with our sustainability specialists as they discuss the latest on sustainability.Despite the ever-changing landscape, materiality remains the cornerstone of sustainability reporting – and it’s here to stay. In this episode, we discuss how materiality is defined and applied under both the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and International Sustainability Standards Board’s (ISSB) standards, highlighting key similarities and differences.In this episode, we discuss:2:13 – Understanding double materiality and impacts, risks, and opportunities (IROs) in the ESRS framework19:15 – Considering long-term horizons, cumulative effects, and uncertainty under ESRS26:39 – Disclosure of relevant IROs under ESRS, including the importance of stakeholders 34:21 – The concept of materiality under ISSB standards40:23 – ISSB risks and opportunitiesIdentifying impacts, risks, and opportunities as well as performing a double materiality assessment are fundamental areas of reporting in accordance with ESRS that are not expected to be impacted by the European Commission’s “Omnibus” proposals at this time. For information on how the “Omnibus” proposals could impact reporting, check out PwC’s publication.About our guestDiana Stoltzfus is a partner in the National Office who helps to shape PwC’s perspectives on regulatory matters, responses to rulemakings, and policy development, and implementation related to significant new rules and regulations. Prior to rejoining PwC, Diana was the Deputy Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where she led the activities of the Professional Practices Group within the OCA.About our hostHeather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. She is also the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series. Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

Apr 1, 2025 • 33min
Reporting reset – Fair value disclosures
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.We continue our back-to-basics series on financial statement presentation with an episode focused on fair value disclosures. Fair value measurements are used across many areas of financial reporting—and the related disclosure requirements can be extensive. From recurring versus nonrecurring measurement disclosures to those relating to fair value hierarchy, we highlight key considerations. In this episode, we discuss:1:09 – General fair value disclosure requirements8:13 – Fair value hierarchy disclosures14:52 – Disclosures of unobservable inputs and valuation techniques17:04 – Concentrations of credit risk and market risk disclosures18:35 – Fair value disclosures for instruments not measured at fair value19:48 – Applying the fair value option27:52 – SEC comment letter trendsFor more information, see chapter 20 of our Financial statement presentation guide and our Fair value guide. You can also listen to the first episode in this series, Reporting reset – Presentation fundamentals. Be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to for the latest thought leadership. About our guestBret Dooley is a PwC National Office Deputy Chief Accountant who leads teams focused on the financial services sectors and accounting for financial instruments. He has over 25 years of experience in the financial services, banking, and capital markets industries. Bret focuses on emerging financial reporting issues related to financial instruments, developing interpretive guidance, and assisting clients in resolving complex accounting matters.About our hostHeather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. She is also the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

Mar 27, 2025 • 37min
Sustainability now: Setting your reporting boundaries
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.com.We're excited to continue our video podcast series on the foundations of sustainability reporting. Now watch along with our sustainability specialists as they discuss the latest on sustainability.Understanding the boundaries, or reporting scope, of sustainability reporting frameworks, including with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards and IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards, is critical for compliance. In this episode, we explore key concepts like own operations, value chain, and time boundaries to help companies navigate sustainability reporting alongside financial reporting.In this episode, we discuss:1:08 – What the term “boundaries” means for sustainability reporting2:49 – How sustainability and financial reporting boundaries compare14:31 – Understanding upstream and downstream value chains and why they are part of sustainability reporting25:32 – Time horizons for reporting, including short, medium, and long term30:38 – How to handle changes in entity structure during the yearICYMI: Check out the five episodes of this miniseries:Sustainability now: Navigating shifts in the reporting landscape Sustainability now: An overview of key reporting frameworksSustainability now: Determining required reportingSustainability now: Navigating “Omnibus” uncertaintySustainability now: California climate reporting laws continue onAbout our guestDiana Stoltzfus is a partner in the National Office who helps to shape PwC’s perspectives on regulatory matters, responses to rulemakings, and policy development, and implementation related to significant new rules and regulations. Prior to rejoining PwC, Diana was the Deputy Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where she led the activities of the Professional Practices Group within the OCA.About our hostHeather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. She is also the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

Mar 25, 2025 • 38min
Reporting reset – Presentation fundamentals
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.We kick off our latest accounting series focused on financial statement presentation and we go back to the basics. This first episode sets the stage by covering foundational reporting principles, key disclosure considerations, notable differences between public and private company financial statements, and accounting changes and error corrections.In this episode, we discuss:1:04 – Foundational GAAP and SEC requirements for financial statement presentation2:46 – Determining appropriate reporting periods5:01 – Balance sheet presentation: classification, required disclosures, and best practices11:23 – Income statement presentation: structure and key considerations21:10 – Accounting changes, estimates, and error corrections31:50 – Subsequent events: recognition and disclosureFor more on this topic read the following chapters in our Financial statement presentation guide:Chapter 1: General presentation and disclosure requirementsChapter 2: Balance sheetChapter 3: Income statementChapter 28: Subsequent eventsChapter 30: Accounting changesAdditionally, follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop for the latest thought leadership. About our guestPat Durbin is a PwC National Office Deputy Chief Accountant. He has over 30 years of experience consulting with our clients and engagement teams on complex accounting matters, including issues related to revenue, compensation, income taxes, and inventory under both US GAAP and IFRS.About our hostGuest host Diana Stoltzfus is a partner in the National Office who helps to shape PwC’s perspectives on regulatory matters, responses to rulemakings, and policy development, and implementation related to significant new rules and regulations. Prior to rejoining PwC, Diana was the Deputy Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where she led the activities of the Professional Practices Group within the OCA.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

Mar 20, 2025 • 46min
Sustainability now: California climate reporting laws continue on
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.com.California’s climate disclosure laws have broad implications for businesses worldwide. In this episode, we break down the key reporting requirements, including on greenhouse gas (GHG) and climate risk, and discuss how companies—whether headquartered in California or not—can prepare.In this episode, we discuss:1:10 – Overview of California’s climate disclosure laws3:45 – Scope of California SB 25314:05 – Greenhouse gas reporting required by California SB 25324:52 – Scope of California SB 26131:42 – Climate risk reporting under the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework37:57 – Interoperability with the International Sustainability Standards Board and the European Sustainability Reporting Standards39:18 – California legal challenges, activity in other states, and why companies should continue to move forwardAs referenced in the episode, check out PwC’s report Still early days – A review of year two of TCFD reporting for more information on reporting in accordance with the TCFD.About our guestsMarcin Olewinski is a PwC Assurance practice partner with over 20 years of experience bringing valued perspectives and insights to large clients in the energy sector. Additionally, he’s focused extensively within PwC’s National Office on greenhouse gas emissions and sustainability reporting and leads PwC’s global technical working group focused on GHG.Diana Stoltzfus is a partner in the National Office who helps to shape PwC’s perspectives on regulatory matters, responses to rulemakings, and policy development, and implementation related to significant new rules and regulations. Prior to rejoining PwC, Diana was the Deputy Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where she led the activities of the Professional Practices Group within the OCA.Valerie Wieman is a PwC National Office partner with over 30 years of experience. She is one of the firm’s technical experts on sustainability reporting and helps lead the creation, development, and publication of our brand-defining thought leadership, with a focus on domestic and international sustainability requirements.About our hostHeather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

Mar 18, 2025 • 48min
Navigating tariff turbulence to your business and your accounting
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.Tariffs are dominating headlines and reshaping global trade. In this episode we break down what they may mean for businesses and financial reporting, and we share insights on how companies can prepare. In this episode, we discuss:1:44 – Overview of tariffs and the current state of play16:28 – Key financial reporting impacts21:12 – Reciprocal tariffs: Country- and industry-specific impacts25:44 – Accounting implications: Cost capitalization, customer contracts, asset impairments, income taxes, and disclosures37:30 – Strategies for managing tariff impactsFor more on this topic, read our publications, Accounting implications of tariffs and How Trump's tariffs could impact US companies. About our guestsChristopher Desmond is a leader in PwC's US Global Trade Services team with over 20 years of experience in transfer pricing. He is known for customized offerings in trade / tariffs combined with other specialties such as supply chain, transfer pricing, and international tax. Chris develops transfer pricing and value chain strategies to help clients manage their businesses using a “best foot forward” approach. Pat Durbin is a PwC National Office Deputy Chief Accountant. He has over 30 years of experience consulting with our clients and engagement teams on complex accounting matters, including issues related to revenue, compensation, income taxes, and inventory under both US GAAP and IFRS.About our hostHeather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. She is also the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

Mar 13, 2025 • 45min
Sustainability now: Navigating “Omnibus” uncertainty
Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.com.We're excited to continue our video podcast series on the foundations of sustainability reporting. Now watch along with our sustainability specialists as they discuss the latest on sustainability.In this bonus episode, we break down the EU’s Omnibus proposal released on February 26, covering key changes to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), including potential impacts to timing and requirements. Join PwC’s Heather Horn and Diana Stoltzfus as they discuss the implications for companies and what’s next in the legislative process.In this episode, we discuss:1:46 – Background on the regulatory changes driving the Omnibus proposals5:20 – The process and timeline of the CSRD proposals9:58 – Two CSRD proposals – “stop the clock” and content revision – and potential implications29:30 – The next steps for these proposals31:40 – Proposed changes to EU Taxonomy regulations and member state transposition37:28 – How companies can consider these potential changes before they become finalICYMI: Check out the first three episodes of this miniseries:Sustainability now: Navigating shifts in the reporting landscape Sustainability now: An overview of key reporting frameworksSustainability now: Determining required reportingAbout our guestDiana Stoltzfus is a partner in the National Office who helps to shape PwC’s perspectives on regulatory matters, responses to rulemakings, and policy development, and implementation related to significant new rules and regulations. Prior to rejoining PwC, Diana was the Deputy Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where she led the activities of the Professional Practices Group within the OCA.About our hostHeather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. She is also the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.