Accounting Today’s Editor in Chief, Dan Hood, joins KC Brothers to break down the major trends shaping the future of the accounting profession. From the slow adoption of cloud technology to the rise and fall of blockchain hype, Dan explains how whispers in the industry evolve into lasting change or quietly disappear.
He shares insights on today’s most important emerging shifts, including CAS growth, private equity activity, ESG reporting, AI-driven transformation, and the coming wave of firm ownership transitions. This conversation gives accountants a clear, practical look at what is ahead and how to prepare for the next era of the profession.
The Accounting Profession Changes Slowly, but Predictably
“Anything that is going to change in accounting takes about five to ten years. It always starts with everyone saying, ‘We’ll never do that,’ until suddenly it becomes, ‘This is great. We should have done this years ago.’”This insight helps listeners understand which current whispers will likely become the next major shifts in the profession.
Blockchain Fizzled Out, but AI Is Built to Stay
“There was a time when everyone thought blockchain would destroy audit. I can’t tell you the last time I heard anyone mention it. AI won’t disappear like that.”Dan makes it clear that AI is a fundamentally different wave and will require accountants to adapt in new ways.
A Major Ownership and Firm Structure Shift Is Coming
“We are going to see a lot of people who are tired of waiting for the boomers to retire just start their own firms. The barriers have never been lower.”This moment of transition opens the door for younger accountants to shape the future of firm models and leadership.
Want to hear the full conversation? Listen to the episode on the Canopy Practice Success Podcast.
