Optimize quality management documentation for SQMS No. 1. Check out these practical tips to keep documentation appropriate and comprehensive, yet right-sized. Remember, the QM deadline is Dec. 15.
Accounting & reporting
FASB update refines reporting scope for derivatives
In response to “the broad and evolving application of the definition of a derivative,” FASB issued an Accounting Standards Update that aims to address stakeholder concerns about the application of derivative accounting.
FinCEN postpones anti-money-laundering rule
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network said Monday that it will revisit the scope of an anti-money-laundering rule that affects small registered investment advisers. It said the effective date was expected to be postponed from Jan. 1, 2026, to Jan. 1, 2028.
A&A Focus recap: AI considerations in A&A, GASB updates, and practical lease accounting challenges
The September webcast featured insights on leveraging artificial intelligence in practice, recent developments in state and local government accounting, and practical challenges with ASC 842 lease identification.
Accounting for software: FASB issues improved guidance
The Accounting Standards Update aims to simplify the reporting of internal-use software costs.
OMB announces plan to eliminate 60 accounting rules for federal contractors
The White House Office of Management and Budget’s Cost Accounting Standards Board published a final rule and a proposed rule that would eliminate “redundant” requirements.
California issues draft guidance for climate risk disclosure
Large companies that conduct business in the state have until Jan. 1, 2026, to publish their first climate-related financial risk reports.
SEC accepting Professional Accounting Fellow applications
The SEC’s Office of the Chief Accountant is accepting applications for positions that will begin later this year.
Calculating AI’s impact on CPAs: New study quantifies time savings
Researchers determine the real difference that generative AI can have on the average accountant in terms of time spent on routine data entry versus time available for client support and billable hours.
A&A Focus recap: M&A trends, non-GAAP frameworks, and how quality management and peer review intersect
The August webcast explored accelerating mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the profession, practical insights on special purpose (non-GAAP) frameworks, and how peer review will address implementation of the new quality management standards.
AICPA unveils new QM resources to help firms meet Dec. 15 deadline
The AICPA updated its SQMS No. 1 practice aid, released a new resource on monitoring and remediation, and is hosting live webcasts to help firms implement the new quality management standards by Dec. 15. Key features of the 2025 practice aid on complying with SQMS No. 1 include expanded discussions, tailored guidance for firms of all sizes, and tools for documentation, evaluation, and effective compliance.
Comfort with crypto: Big North American companies have big plans
Nearly one-quarter of CFOs surveyed see their companies using crypto in the next two years and nearly all see crypto in their long-term plans, although the list of concerns remains long.
FASB updates guidance on measurement of credit losses
The optional guidance aims to address concerns shared by private company shareholders related to the cost and complexity of measuring credit losses for accounts receivable and contract assets.
US House passes stablecoin regulatory framework
Already approved by the Senate and on its way to the president for signature, the GENIUS Act will require stablecoin issuers to undergo a monthly examination of disclosures. Larger issuers also will be subject to an annual audit.
A&A Focus recap: New fraud exposure draft, building AI trust, and a not-for-profit update
The July webcast explored proposed revisions to the fraud auditing standard, evolving frameworks for AI assurance, and recent developments affecting not-for-profit financial reporting.
GASB updates guidance on application of standards
The guide aims to assist state and local governments via a series of questions and answers.
Elimination of PCAOB can’t remain in budget bill, Senate official rules
The Senate parliamentarian’s office determined that a provision aimed at folding the PCAOB into the SEC doesn’t qualify for the budget reconciliation process.
SEC names new chief accountant
Kurt Hohl, CPA, is set to begin the role with the SEC in early July. He replaces Paul Munter, who left the job in January.
A&A Focus recap: Auditing Standards Board chair; a new COSO framework; stablecoin criteria
The June webcast featured updates from the Auditing Standards Board, discussion of a new corporate governance framework from COSO, and an overview of a new AICPA exposure draft on control criteria for stablecoin operations.
A&A Focus recap: AICPA CEO, revenue recognition step 5, and quality management
The May webcast featured AICPA CEO Mark Koziel providing his view of the A&A landscape, a deep dive into step 5 of the five-step revenue recognition process outlined in FASB ASC Topic 606, as well as more discussion of quality management.
Features
SPONSORED REPORT
Preparing clients for new provisions next tax season
As the 2025 filing season approaches, H.R. 1 introduces significant tax reforms that CPAs must be prepared to navigate. These legislative changes represent some of the most comprehensive tax updates in recent years, affecting both individual and corporate taxpayers. This report provides in-depth analysis and guidance on H.R. 1.