PwC's accounting podcast

It’s that time of year, with many focused on year-end reporting. After wrapping up our Year-end toolkit series last week, we revisit another set of conversations that are especially relevant right now. We’re re-releasing the kickoff episode from last year’s Reporting reset series.This first episode sets the stage for the series by covering foundational reporting principles, key disclosure considerations, notable differences between public and private company financial statements, and accounting changes and error corrections. Links are provided to other episodes in this presentation and disclosure series.In this episode, we discuss:1:25 – Foundational GAAP and SEC requirements for financial statement presentation3:09 – Determining appropriate reporting periods5:25 – Balance sheet presentation: classification, required disclosures, and best practices11:44 – Income statement presentation: structure and key considerations21:31 – Accounting changes, estimates, and error corrections29:53 – 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 changesBe sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.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 guest hostDiana Stoltzfus is a partner in PwC’s 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 OCA’s Professional Practices Group.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.comDid you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

Stephen Parker, partner at PwC’s Governance Insights Center with 30+ years advising boards, discusses strengthening director-management relationships. He covers making audit committee agendas more effective, what to report about AI and cyber risks, evolving enterprise risk management, oversight of transformations and M&A, and improving proxy disclosures.

Suzanne Stephani, a statement-of-cash-flows and financing specialist, and Christopher Gerdau, an expert in financial instruments and SEC reviews, walk through tricky cash flow presentation topics. They cover SEC comment themes, debt restructurings and net vs gross treatment, payment-processing classifications, business combination cash-flow issues, and upcoming FASB projects.

As signs of market stabilization emerge, companies are reassessing their deal strategies for 2026. In this episode, we explore IPO and M&A trends, the influence of AI and macroeconomic shifts, and the steps finance teams can take now to be ready for what’s next.In this episode, we discuss:3:35 – Where the deals market stands today 9:38 – Deals outlook for 202617:35 – Expected IPOs and financing trends for 202625:28 – What finance leaders and teams can do now to prepareFor more read our publications, US Capital Markets 2026 Outlook—IPO markets look primed to accelerate in 2026 and The next wave of M&A: Bigger and bolder deals driven by AI and private equity—US Deals 2026 outlook. Also, be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestMike Bellin is a PwC Deals partner who leads PwC’s US Capital Markets practice. Mike advises clients on accessing the debt and equity capital markets by providing clients with technical/project management advice on complex accounting and financial reporting issues associated with the SEC registration process, IPOs, direct listings, SPAC mergers, 144A debt and equity offerings, divestitures, spinoffs and carve-outs, and GAAP conversions.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 Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

In this episode, we share key insights and reminders on navigating materiality judgments. We revisit the fundamentals of SAB 99, explore how to apply both quantitative and qualitative considerations, address identified errors, and more.In this episode, we discuss:3:53 – The framework for assessing materiality and errors in financial statements8:51 – Addressing identified errors15:01 – Reassessing materiality amid economic and other changes19:48 – Trends in reporting errors, including cash flow statement impacts23:09 – Fraud and illegal actsIn case you missed it, check out the previous episode in this year-end miniseries, Year-end toolkit: Accounting and reporting reminders for 2026.Be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestMichael Mullen is PwC’s US Assurance Quality Management leader. In this role, he oversees complex client issues, providing technical insights and expertise in support of overall quality. With over 35 years of client service experience, Michael has led numerous global client engagements.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 OCA’s Professional Practices Group.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.comDid you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

Tom Barbieri, U.S. Chief Accountant with 30+ years advising multinationals; Beth Paul, specialist in business combinations and consolidations; Bret Dooley, expert in financial instruments and banking; Pat Durbin, experienced in revenue, taxes, and inventory. They discuss AI mega‑deal structuring, equity method thresholds and disclosures, tariffs and inventory impacts, crypto accounting models, private credit classification, tax reform effects, hedge and held‑for‑sale rules.

In this final episode of our SEC-focused series, we discuss SEC comments on revenue. Revenue is the top line for a reason; it’s closely watched by investors and therefore the SEC staff as well. From performance obligations to disaggregated revenue disclosures, we discuss the issues most frequently raised by the SEC staff and offer advice to preparers for getting it right the first time.In this episode, we discuss:1:34 – An overview of SEC comment letter trends related to revenue6:22 – Performance obligations10:48 – Variable consideration17:07 – Principal versus agent considerations26:00 – Disaggregated revenue disclosuresIn case you missed it, check out the previous episodes in this SEC-focused series:SEC now: MD&A 2025 comment letter trendsSEC now: Segments 2025 comment letter trendsSEC now: 2025 comment letter trends on transactionsSEC now: Non-GAAP 2025 comment letter trendsSEC now: Today’s landscape and recent developmentsFor more on the SEC, listen to our recent episodes:Key takeaways from the AICPA & CIMA ConferenceSEC to revisit quarterly reporting: Pros, cons, and what’s aheadBe sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestsMike Coleman is a partner in PwC's National Office who specializes in accounting for revenue and software arrangements and has served technology clients for much of his career. In addition, Mike has represented the firm on the AICPA Software Task Force.Ryan Spencer is a partner at PwC's National Office specializing in SEC reporting matters both for US domestic issuers and some of the world’s largest foreign SEC registrants. He has over 25 years of experience serving clients and is a frequent contributor to PwC’s publications and communications.About our guest hostKyle Moffatt is PwC’s Professional Practice leader, leading a team responsible for working with standard setters and regulators as well as delivering brand-defining thought leadership and educational materials. He also consults with engagement teams and audit clients on SEC reporting matters. Before PwC, Kyle spent almost 20 years with the SEC, most recently as Chief Accountant and Disclosure Program Director in the Division of Corporation Finance.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.comDid you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

We continue our SEC-focused series with a discussion of management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A), a topic that remains a consistent focus in SEC staff comment letters. In this episode, we explore the latest trends, common themes, and areas of emphasis—including results of operations, liquidity, and critical accounting estimates—and share practical considerations as companies prepare year-end filings.In this episode, we discuss:1:31 – An overview of SEC comment letter trends related to MD&A6:43 – The results of operations25:16 – Liquidity and capital resources28:30 – Critical accounting estimates35:24 – Final reminders and best practices related to MD&AIn case you missed it, check out the previous episodes in this SEC-focused series:SEC now: Segments 2025 comment letter trendsSEC now: 2025 comment letter trends on transactionsSEC now: Non-GAAP 2025 comment letter trendsSEC now: Today’s landscape and recent developmentsFor more on the SEC, listen to our recent episodes:Key takeaways from the AICPA & CIMA ConferenceSEC to revisit quarterly reporting: Pros, cons, and what’s aheadBe sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestsLindsay McCord is a PwC National Office partner specializing in matters related to the SEC and the capital markets. Prior to joining PwC, Lindsay spent over 15 years at the SEC, most recently as the Chief Accountant in the Division of Corporation Finance. In this role, Lindsay led an accounting team in providing technical accounting and reporting support to the Division, including SEC rulemaking, interpretation, and guidance.Ryan Spencer is a partner at PwC's National Office specializing in SEC reporting matters both for US domestic issuers and some of the world’s largest foreign SEC registrants. He has over 25 years of experience serving clients and is a frequent contributor to PwC’s publications.About our guest hostKyle Moffatt is PwC’s Professional Practice leader, leading a team responsible for working with standard setters and regulators as well as delivering brand-defining thought leadership and educational materials. He also consults with engagement teams and audit clients on SEC reporting matters. Before PwC, Kyle spent almost 20 years with the SEC, most recently as Chief Accountant and Disclosure Program Director in the Division of Corporation Finance.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

In this episode, we debrief the 2025 AICPA Conference in Washington, DC, highlighting key takeaways including perspectives from SEC Chairman Paul Atkins and other regulatory leaders. Topics include the SEC’s rulemaking priorities for 2026, trends in capital formation, and emerging issues such as AI and cryptocurrency. We also explore practical reminders for year-end reporting and insights into international standard setting collaboration.In this episode, we discuss:6:42 – SEC Chair keynote: “Making IPOs great again”12:51 – Emerging issues: AI, crypto, and international standard setting25:08 – SEC shutdown impacts and capital markets backlog32:06 – Rulemaking outlook and year-end reminders47:08 – PCAOB oversight, inspections, and audit standard-setting themesFor more, read our In depth, 2025 AICPA & CIMA Conference: Current SEC and PCAOB Developments.Be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestsKevin Vaughn is a PwC National Office partner specializing in SEC reporting matters. Kevin leverages his extensive experience to support PwC public company and pre-IPO clients on accounting and SEC reporting matters. Prior to joining PwC in 2023, Kevin spent over 18 years at the SEC, most recently serving on the leadership team in the SEC’s Office of the Chief Accountant where he focused on technical accounting consultations, SEC rulemakings, and standard setting matters.Scott Feely is a PwC National Office Deputy Chief Accountant. He has over 30 years of experience supporting clients as they address the SEC and financial reporting implications of their capital markets and merger and acquisition-related activities.About our guest hostKyle Moffatt is PwC’s Professional Practice leader, leading a team responsible for working with standard setters and regulators as well as delivering brand-defining thought leadership and educational materials. He also consults with engagement teams and audit clients on SEC reporting matters. Before PwC, Kyle spent almost 20 years with the SEC, most recently as Chief Accountant and Disclosure Program Director in the Division of Corporation Finance.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.comDid you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

We continue our SEC-focused series with a discussion of segment disclosures, reporting trends, and early comment letter themes emerging from the adoption of the new standard. In this episode, we explore common staff observations, including the role of the Chief Operating Decision Maker, or CODM; significant expense disclosures; and interplay with non-GAAP measures.In this episode, we discuss:1:46 – Why segment disclosures remain a top SEC focus8:04 – Early comment themes under the new standard15:14 – Multiple profit measures and non-GAAP considerations28:14 – How the SEC evaluates a company’s segment structure35:28 – Ongoing reassessment of impacts to segmentsIn case you missed it, check out the previous episodes in this SEC-focused series:SEC now: 2025 comment letter trends on transactionsSEC now: Non-GAAP 2025 comment letter trendsSEC now: Today’s landscape and recent developmentsBe sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestsKevin Vaughn is a PwC National Office partner specializing in SEC reporting matters. Kevin leverages his extensive experience to support PwC public company and pre-IPO clients on accounting and SEC reporting matters. Prior to joining PwC in 2023, Kevin spent over 18 years at the SEC, most recently serving on the leadership team in the SEC’s Office of the Chief Accountant where he focused on technical accounting consultations, SEC rulemakings, and standard setting matters.Jay Seliber is a partner in PwC’s National Office. He leverages over 35 years of experience to help clients with their most complex accounting matters, particularly in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, segment reporting, revenue recognition, stock compensation, earnings per share, employee benefits, restructurings, impairments, and financing transactions.About our guest hostKyle Moffatt is PwC’s Professional Practice leader, leading a team responsible for working with standard setters and regulators as well as delivering brand-defining thought leadership and educational materials. He also consults with engagement teams and audit clients on SEC reporting matters. Before PwC, Kyle spent almost 20 years with the SEC, most recently as Chief Accountant and Disclosure Program Director in the Division of Corporation Finance.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.