PwC's accounting podcast

We continue our month of podcasts focused on financial statement presentation hot topics. 

In this episode, host Heather Horn sits down with Pat Durbin, a deputy chief accountant in PwC’s National Office, and Felix Perez, a partner in PwC’s National Office specializing in SEC reporting, to discuss the significance of income statement presentation to the investor community and standard setters. Together, they break down key areas of judgment and the practical challenges involved in income statement presentation and classification.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• 1:34 - The significance of income statement presentation and classification in portraying financial performance, including general reporting considerations and the interaction between income statement presentation and non-GAAP metrics
• 8:50 - The SEC's rules on the form and content of income statements, including considerations for financial institutions
• 21:44 - Income and expense disaggregation reminders, including classification of operating versus non-operating expenses as well as considerations for cost of sales, depreciation, and amortization
• 33:50 - The complexities of income statement classification in collaborative arrangements, discontinued operations, and impairments
• 42:05 - An update on the FASB project on disaggregation of income statement expenses (DISE) project

For more information, read chapter 3 of our Financial statement presentation guide. Additionally, follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app for more episodes.

Pat Durbin is a Deputy Chief Accountant in PwC’s National Office. 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.

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. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Felix Perez is a partner in PwC’s National Office specializing in SEC reporting. He has over 25 years of experience serving clients and engagement teams across financial services and technology sectors.

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

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Investors today want to better understand how companies are managing crises and staying resilient, while creating and protecting long-term value in today’s fracturing world. They are looking closely at two areas—emerging technology and sustainability—to gauge whether companies can seize opportunities for reinvention and business transformation, or whether they will instead succumb to rivals.  

That’s according to PwC’s most recent Global Investor Survey, which is now in its third consecutive year. To break down some of the survey’s results and their implications for preparers, Heather Horn sat down with Nadja Picard, PwC’s global reporting leader. 

In this episode, you’ll hear: 

• 3:19 - The importance of sustainability in the context of broader business activity and how it is no longer a siloed topic 
• 5:54 – How investors prioritize agility in managing long-term risks and opportunities 
• 17:25 - The challenges companies face in collecting and managing sustainability data and the importance of having a well-defined data strategy 
• 18:19 - The importance of credibility in sustainability reporting and how investors are looking for strategies that are underpinned by good plans 
• 24:43 - Investor perspectives and beliefs on corporate greenwashing, per our survey 
• 29:41 - The learning journey of companies in implementing sustainability reporting and the role of regulators in this process 
• 32:58 - The future of sustainability reporting and the role of technology in improving data collection and reporting 

Looking for the latest developments in sustainability reporting? Follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop for the latest thought leadership on sustainability standards. 

Nadja Picard is PwC’s Global Reporting Leader. In this role, she leads PwC’s global initiative to help clients transform their corporate reporting to meet investor and stakeholder demands for trusted and assured reporting beyond financial reporting. Nadja also advises companies on the accounting, corporate reporting, and investor relations requirements in advance of capital markets transactions, especially IPOs.

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. With over 30 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]. 

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We kick off another month of podcasts, this time focused on financial statement presentation hot topics. Drumroll please... This week we are presenting EPS.

In this episode, host Heather Horn sits down with John Horan, PwC National Office managing director, to discuss the significance of earnings per share (EPS), focusing on the practical challenges and judgments involved in this not-so-simple, but very closely-watched, computation.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• 00:56 - The significance of EPS to the analyst and investor community
• 02:59 - A refresher of the differences between basic and diluted EPS and a discussion of judgments involved in the computation, including redeemable securities
• 9:50 - A discussion of the impact of changes in capital structure and reorganizations, including stock dividends, stock splits, and IPOs, on the EPS computation
• 20:25 - Reporting reminders, including disclosure requirements and considerations related to subsequent events

For more information, read chapter 7 of our Financial statement presentation guide. Additionally, follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app for more episodes.

John Horan is a managing director in PwC’s National Office where he assists clients with complex accounting issues in the areas of foreign currency, liabilities and equity, earnings per share, and derivatives and hedging. John specializes in large capital transactions and initial public offerings.

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. With over 30 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]. 

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Even as mandatory sustainability reporting regulations near effective dates in jurisdictions around the world, voluntary reporting remains an important part of many companies’ disclosures. With more than 10,000 companies around the world using its standards, the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) remains a key standard setter in the impact reporting space.

Today’s guest makes the case that there are myriad benefits to voluntary reporting – not the least of which is preparation for mandatory reporting. Host Heather Horn sits down with Eelco van der Enden, CEO of GRI, to discuss GRI's recent accomplishments and the path ahead for sustainability reporting around the world.

In this episode, you’ll hear them discuss:

• 1:05 - GRI’s accomplishments in the past year
• 6:29 - The development of a digital taxonomy that will facilitate interoperability between the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and GRI
• 12:16 - The overlap between impact reporting and financial materiality, and the importance of considering demographic challenges, climate change, and related legislation in impact reporting
• 17:45 - The collaboration between GRI and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) in launching a Sustainability Innovation Lab in Singapore
• 30:53 – How GRI is innovating to support small and medium company reporting
• 39:16 – The launch of GRI’s new disclosure standard on biodiversity
• 41:15 – How standard setters are working together to address the challenges faced by companies in complying with multiple reporting regimes

Looking for the latest developments in sustainability reporting? Follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop for the latest thought leadership on sustainability standards.

Eelco van der Enden is the CEO of the Global Reporting Initiative. Prior to this role, Eelco led PwC’s global ESG platform for the Tax & Legal and People Services, and PwC's Tax Administration Consulting practice. Eelco is also Chairman of the Tax Policy Group of Accountancy Europe, and has published multiple articles on tax governance and reporting.

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. With over 30 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]. 

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This week, we begin a collaboration with another popular PwC podcast. Host Heather Horn is joined by Doug McHoney, PwC International Tax Services Global Leader and host of the “Cross-border Tax Talks” podcast. Doug shares insights on the revolutionary new global tax system — the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Pillar Two framework — and its impact on companies worldwide.

The objective of Pillar Two is for large multinational enterprises to pay a minimum level of tax (a threshold effective tax rate of 15%) on the income arising in each jurisdiction where they operate. Doug joins us to shed light on the judgments involved and what companies can do to prepare.

In this episode, you will hear:

• 3:15 - A refresher on Pillar Two, the first global tax system for multinational companies, including:
  • 4:30 - A breakdown of the four operating rules prescribed by the framework and the breadth of impact on companies worldwide
  • 11:00 - An overview of enactment timing and the three-year transitional safe harbor provisions
• 13:35 - A discussion of the intersection between Pillar Two and US tax policy, including the impact on US companies
• 18:09 - A comparison of the mechanics of Pillar Two and current practice, including an overview of key tax adjustments
• 28:50 - Practical considerations, including materiality considerations, for companies preparing to comply with Pillar Two
• 36:15 - Data and controls implications as companies revamp tax policies and procedures
• 41:50 - Final advice for companies looking to achieve operational readiness for Pillar Two

For more on OECD’s Pillar Two, read our publication, Global taxation: More than an idea - what it means for you now, as well as our prior podcast, Tax policy update - OECD and domestic minimum taxes.

Additionally, check out PwC International Tax Services’ “Cross-border Tax Talks” podcast, and follow both podcasts on your favorite podcast app for upcoming episodes.

Doug McHoney is PwC's Global International Tax Services Leader, helping clients worldwide understand a wide range of global and local tax policy developments and providing technology-enabled consulting services. Doug also hosts the Cross-border Tax Talks podcast series, providing listeners with the latest trends in taxation.

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. With over 30 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]. 

Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

In each episode of our Year-end toolkit series, our guests share insights on key areas of the year-end accounting and reporting process. 

This week, host Heather Horn is joined by Pete Driscoll, PwC National Office partner, to break down the SEC’s 2023 enforcement action results, which set a record with 784 enforcement actions filed in 2023. Pete unpacks the themes and trends within those enforcement actions and shares advice on what companies can do to avoid some common pitfalls. 

Listener note: Although we summarize key themes from allegations as described by SEC orders and complaints, it is important to note that companies have neither admitted nor denied wrongdoing in these cases.

In this episode, you will hear:

• 2:15 - Key themes in the SEC's 2023 enforcement action results, including a discussion of the SEC’s priorities and approach to enforcement
• 11:10 - A discussion of the increased focus on cybersecurity, including rulemaking considerations 
• 12:30 - An analysis of financial reporting and misstatement cases, including internal control considerations
• 18:50 - Insight into the SEC's interest in the digital asset space, including cases involving cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs)
• 23:30 - The importance of maintaining adequate books and records, including a discussion of cases brought in this area
• 27:20 - Final insights on the long-term implications of SEC enforcement actions and advice for companies reviewing their business practices

Pete Driscoll is a partner in PwC’s National Office focusing on SEC regulations, reporting, and compliance. Prior to his role at PwC, Pete held several roles at the SEC, including Director of the Division of Examinations and Chief Risk and Strategy Officer.

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. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app for other episodes in our Year-end toolkit series.

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

Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

In each episode of our Year-end toolkit series, our guests share insights on key areas of the year-end accounting and reporting process. 

In this episode, guest host Kevin Vaughn, PwC National Office partner, sits down with Suzanne Stephani, PwC National Office director, to discuss the significance of the statement of cash flows, focusing on the practical challenges and judgments involved in the classification of cash flows.

In this episode, you will hear:

• 2:05 - Frequent challenges and restatements related to the statement of cash flows 
• 5:10 - Insights from the SEC Chief Accountant, Paul Munter, on risk management and controls related to the statement of cash flows as well as considerations for assessing the materiality of cash flow restatements
• 14:15 - Fundamental principles of the statement of cash flows, including the identification of cash equivalents and related disclosure considerations 
• 21:40 - Gross versus net presentation on the statement of cash flows, including considerations for non-cash and nonrecurring transactions
• 27:25 - Key areas of judgment, including:
  • 27:25 - Applying the concept of constructive receipts and disbursements when dealing with third-party or agent transactions
  • 32:58 - The impact of debt transactions, including debt extinguishments and restructurings, on the statement of cash flows
  • 40:50 - Considerations when dealing with lease modifications, business combinations, discontinued operations, and classification of cash flows associated with treasury bills

For more information, read chapter 6 of our Financial statement presentation guide. Additionally, follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app for upcoming episodes in our Year-end toolkit series.

Suzanne Stephani is a director in PwC’s National Office specializing in the statement of cash flows, as well as the application and interpretation of the accounting guidance related to financing and leasing transactions.

Kevin Vaughn is a partner in PwC’s National Office. Prior to joining PwC, Kevin was senior associate chief accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where he spent almost 20 years focusing on complex financial reporting and technical accounting issues.

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

Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

In each episode of ourYear-end toolkit series, our guests share insights on key areas of the year-end accounting and reporting process. 

In this episode, guest host Kevin Vaughn, PwC National Office partner, sits down with Suzanne Stephani, PwC National Office director, to discuss the judgments and complexities involved in the balance sheet classification of debt, focusing on the challenges arising more frequently in today’s macroeconomic environment.

In this episode, you will hear: 

• 1:26 - A refresher on the importance of balance sheet classification of debt, including the impact of current economic conditions on debt and credit risk 
• 4:10 - Key considerations for classifying debt, including: 
  • 6:11 - Reminders for dealing with refinancing arrangements 
  • 8:20 - The implications of subjective acceleration clauses (SAC) in financing agreements 
  • 11:32 - The implications of covenant violation waivers on balance sheet classification 
  • 15:30 - Other facts and circumstances impacting debt classification 
• 23:10 - A discussion of the increased prominence of revolving debt arrangements and reminders for companies dealing with revolving agreements 
• 30:05 - Final advice for preparers on navigating debt classification and managing covenant violations 

For more information, read chapter 12 of our Financial statement presentation guide. Additionally, follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app for upcoming episodes in our Year-end toolkit series.

Suzanne Stephani is a director in PwC’s National Office specializing in the statement of cash flows, as well as the application and interpretation of the accounting guidance related to financing and leasing transactions.

Kevin Vaughn is a partner in PwC’s National Office. Prior to joining PwC, Kevin was senior associate chief accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where he spent almost 20 years focusing on complex financial reporting and technical accounting issues.

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

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XBRL is an open international standard for digital business reporting that allows information to move between organizations rapidly and with accuracy. While XBRL is a mature component of today’s financial reporting ecosystem, a shared digital reporting language may also be critical for the future of sustainability reporting.  

In this episode, host Heather Horn sits down with John Turner, CEO of XBRL International, the global consortium that manages and promotes XBRL, to discuss the framework’s role in enhancing the quality and usefulness of sustainability disclosures. 

In this episode, you’ll hear: 

• 4:02 - Defining digital taxonomies, digital languages, and XBRL 
• 9:49 - How standard setters interact with digital taxonomies 
• 16:27 - How accurate digital tagging of financial data is crucial to robust investment analysis 
• 22:10 - Approaches on digitally tagging qualitative information and footnotes 
• 25:38 - How digital taxonomies could impact sustainability reporting 
• 28:30 - Anticipated challenges in aligning digital reporting across differing sustainability standards 
• 40:23 - Digital readiness considerations for issuers planning for mandatory sustainability reporting 
• 45:03 - The importance of issuers voicing feedback to regulators as standards are set 

Looking for more information on XBRL? Check out our previous podcast episode, What’s next in tech for finance? XBRL, your competitive advantage, as well as PwC’s XBRL service offerings. Additionally, follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop for the latest thought leadership on sustainability standards. 

John Turner is the CEO of XBRL International. In his role, John is responsible for enhancing reporting under regulatory standards and supporting the adoption of XBRL globally. Throughout his career, he has been focused on improving business reporting and analytics, having been a leading member of the XBRL community since 2001 when it was founded, and also serving in roles within the consulting and regulation spaces.

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. With over 30 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]. 

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In each episode of our Year-end toolkit series, our guests share insights on key areas of the year-end accounting and reporting process. 

In this episode, guest host Kyle Moffatt, PwC National Office Professional Practice leader, sits down with PwC’s US Trust Solutions Quality Management leader, Michael Mullen, to help us navigate materiality judgments in a challenging financial environment.

In this episode, you’ll hear: 

• 2:10 - A discussion of the guiding principles of SAB 99 and its importance in the current macroeconomic environment 
• 5:41 - A refresher on the framework for evaluating materiality and errors in financial statements, including both quantitative and qualitative aspects 
• 7:05 - Observations on the increase in SEC staff comments and requests for SAB 99 analyses to support materiality judgments 
• 8:40 - Recent SEC statements on the increased trends in restatements and revisions, including considerations for preparers and auditors working through materiality assessments and reminders on the control implications 
• 15:55 - A discussion of the role of the audit committee and the importance of proactively engaging with those charged with governance when dealing with materiality judgments 
• 17:45 - Key takeaways for preparers and auditors in navigating the heightened risk of fraud and the significance of understanding the role of each stakeholder in the financial reporting process  
• 21:40 - Final advice for preparers on improving processes and controls to effectively avoid errors 

For more information on key SEC rules, refer to our publications on cybersecurity disclosures and cybersecurity materiality assessments. Additionally, follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app for upcoming episodes in our Year-end toolkit series.

Michael Mullen is PwC’s US Trust Solutions Quality Management leader. In this role, he oversees complex client issues, providing technical insights and expertise in support of overall quality. With over 30 years of client service experience, Michael has led numerous global client engagements.

Kyle 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 [email protected]. 

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