Episode 109

The Big 4 Go Legal: Why KPMG’s Bold Step Matters to You

In this episode of the Accounting Influencer podcast, Rob Brown discusses KPMG's groundbreaking move to become the first major accounting firm in the US to own a law firm, following new laws in Arizona that allow non-lawyers to own law firms. This shift is driven by client demand for integrated services, advancements in technology, and the lucrative nature of legal services. Brown emphasizes the implications for accounting professionals, including the need for multidisciplinary skills, tech literacy, and ethical considerations. He encourages listeners to stay informed, expand their expertise, and build their influence to remain relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.

Takeaways

  • KPMG is pioneering a significant shift in the accounting profession by owning a law firm.
  • The relaxation of laws in Arizona is a game changer for legal services.
  • Client demand for integrated solutions is a major driver of this change.
  • Technology and process expertise are essential for modern accounting firms.
  • Legal services are lucrative, presenting a growth opportunity for accounting firms.
  • Multidisciplinary teams are becoming the norm in professional services.
  • Tech skills are crucial for accountants to stay competitive.
  • Ethical scrutiny will increase with the blending of accounting and legal services.
  • Staying informed about industry trends is vital for accounting professionals.
  • Building influence and expanding expertise will help accountants navigate future changes.

You can check out the video version of this with visuals and graphics here on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/vdufliwlx2o

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

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About the Podcast

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Accounting Voices Podcast
Accounting Voices helps people in the accounting world stay relevant visible and vocal. Host Rob Brown interprets trends reshaping the profession and gives listeners insight to build authority influence and a stronger voice in firms and markets.

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About your host

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Rob Brown

Rob Brown is the founder and host of the Accounting Voices Podcast, the flagship solo show of the Accounting Voices Network. Each episode offers sharp analysis and commentary on the trends, ideas and people shaping the global accounting profession.

Through this Accounting Voices Podcast, Rob helps accounting firm leaders, decision makers and professionals stay relevant and make sense of disruption in areas like AI, automation, M&A, private equity and soft skills beyond the tech. His perspective blends clarity, insight and curiosity, making complex issues relevant and practical for professionals and decision makers across accounting and finance.

He also leads two monthly panel shows, Accounting M&A and Accounting AI, which bring together senior voices to explore consolidation, strategy and the impact of technology on firms and people.

Rob is the author of the bestselling book Build Your Reputation (Wiley) and a TEDx speaker whose talk The Personal Brand of You has more than 400,000 views. Over his career he has hosted and moderated more than 1,000 conversations with accounting and fintech leaders worldwide.

Based in Nottingham UK, Rob is a stroke survivor living with epilepsy, a black belt in kickboxing, a decent chess player and an average player of four musical instruments.