If you’re unsure about how COVID-19 might impact your financial reporting, you're not alone. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, this podcast is the next episode in a series that will address questions surrounding the impacts to financial reporting. Heather Horn is joined by PwC valuation specialists Chris Merchant and Chris Bailey to help resolve some of the valuation challenges in the current environment. 

Topics include:

• 1:15 - Real estate. Recently, real estate has seen a lot of unexpected disruption. We begin by looking at the trends and hone in on areas of concern from a model perspective. 
• 8:23 - Private equity. What are the valuation challenges for private equity? Chris walks through  how to consider a lack of transactions in the market and delays in the availability of information.
• 13:31 - Governance. In times of disruption, strong governance is important. Here we discuss the current challenges to effective oversight.
• 17:29 - Operations. What operational questions should you be asking right now? In this segment, we discuss performing a holistic portfolio review. 
• 22:30 - Looking ahead. As we look to the next reporting deadline, what information should be top of mind? Hint: documentation is key.

Chris Merchant, a partner in PwC’s Financial Markets Practice, leads the Financial Analytics Team. With nearly 20 years of experience serving a diverse range of institutions, Chris advises clients on strategy, operations, and disruption, with a particular focus on harnessing emerging technologies to improve customer experience, draw insights, and leverage data to create institutional value.

Chris Bailey, a director in PwC’s Financial Markets Practice, focuses on commercial real estate and private credit. Chris has experience in transaction advisory, underwriting, credit assessment, structuring, due diligence and valuations, and corporate entities within investment banking and advisory roles.

Heather Horn is PwC’s National office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With over 25 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to [email protected].