Mid-tier accounting firms weigh in on private equity and M&A.

TLDR:

– Mid-tier accounting firms in the UK are increasingly focused on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) for growth.
– Private equity investment is a hot topic in the profession, with some firms interested but others skeptical.

Mid-tier accounting firms in the UK are leveraging mergers and acquisitions (M&A) for growth. According to a report by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), a significant number of firms have engaged in M&A activities, with some attributing fee growth to such activities. Looking ahead, a substantial portion of firms are planning to pursue mergers and acquisitions in the next few years, pointing towards a continued trend in using M&A for rapid growth and capacity building.

On the other hand, private equity investment is emerging as a hot topic in the profession. While some firms have secured private equity investment and see opportunities in it, others remain skeptical. Concerns about independence, cultural fit, and the impact on staff recruitment are weighing on firms’ decisions regarding private equity investment.