Your AM Now hosts Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger are back at it again with critical accounting and finance stories from the week that was, including: Updates from the recent FASB Board meeting on Topic 815, Hedge Accounting Improvements New York's S5437 and S897A bills push for pioneering sustainability disclosures in the finance and corporate sectors. China enforces sustainability reporting for all listed companies, setting a new global standard in ESG transparency. The SEC's new rules expand the...
Feb 13, 2024•9 min
It’s once again time for your AM Now hosts Adam Olsen and Matt Fisser to deliver what’s going on in accounting and finance this week, including stories on: The SEC adopted final rules to enhance disclosures and provide additional investor protections in IPOs by SPACs and in de-SPAC transactions. The postponement of certain CSRD elements by two years, including sector-specific sustainability disclosures and sustainability reporting from companies outside the EU. The latest developments from the F...
Feb 07, 2024•11 min
In this episode of 'Accounting Matters,' we guide private companies through key accounting developments, covering standards like CECL, simplified goodwill impairment, and supplier finance program disclosures. Additionally, we discuss what lies ahead in the new year.
Jan 30, 2024•30 min•Ep. 71
Your trusty AM Now hosts Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger are serving up yet another episode of tasty accounting and finance stories for you, including: SEC registrants should expect a significant uptick in their Staff Accounting Bulletin SAB 74 disclosures due to the impending adoption of numerous Accounting Standard Updates (ASUs). EFRAG has initiated a public consultation on two Exposure Drafts – ESRS LSME ED and VSME ED – for sustainability reporting standards. EU member states are currently tra...
Jan 24, 2024•11 min
You’ve read the headlines. Perused the articles. Maybe even had a convo or two on the topic. But now it’s time to get to the ESRS nitty gritty with your trusted Accounting Matters embarkers. So get comfy with Nicole Harger, Adam Olsen, and Robby Sunberg for this first half of a two-fer on all things CSRD and ESRS. You, your sustainability reporting, and stakeholders won’t be sorry. For more information on CSRD, ESRS, and related topics: The ESRS Skinny: What the European Sustainability Reporting...
Jan 15, 2024•25 min
Your AM Now hosts Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger kick off 2024 with another episode of accounting and finance stories you need to hear, including: The invalidation of the SEC's share repurchase rule by the U.S. Court of Appeals. CorpFin’s statement on the SEC's cybersecurity disclosure rule. Two new accounting standards by FASB: ASU 2023-09, revising income tax disclosures, and ASU 2023-10, addressing accounting for and disclosure of crypto assets. The provisional agreement on the EU's Corporate S...
Jan 12, 2024•9 min
In this episode of Accounting Matters, Adam and Nicole dissect California's Climate Accountability Package, focusing on Senate Bills 253 and 261. They unravel the mandatory disclosure of greenhouse gas emissions, including Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3, for companies operating in the state. We provide valuable insights into compliance challenges, the role of the California Air Resources Board, and the implications of potential fines for noncompliance. Whether you're a seasoned professional or ne...
Dec 21, 2023•40 min•Ep. 70
In this episode of Accounting Matters, Adam and Nicole dive into the complexities of audit preparation for companies closing their books in 2023. Drawing from their extensive public accounting experience, they explore common challenges, such as headcount shortages and the impact of significant transactions on readiness. We also discuss the importance of documentation, effective auditor collaboration, and strategies to meet crucial deadlines. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the i...
Dec 18, 2023•23 min•Ep. 69
As always, your AM Now hosts Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger are here delivering this week’s accounting and finance news, including: The latest on the SEC’s still-brewing requirements on climate change disclosures The novel new proposed reporting framework from the AICPA for issuers of stablecoins The FASB adding a project to its technical agenda to refine the scope of ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging For more information on these and related topics: SEC Proposed Climate Change Disclosures Put CFOs...
Dec 14, 2023•7 min
In this episode of 'Accounting Matters,' we provide a thorough recap of the 2023 AICPA Conference on Current SEC and PCAOB Developments. So join us as we cover key insights such as risk assessment in financial reporting, high-quality accounting standards, and emerging trends in ESG reporting and more! Connect with Embark on: LinkedIn Instagram Twitter Facebook YouTube Listen to Accounting Matters on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, and Spotify....
Dec 13, 2023•27 min•Ep. 68
In this week's episode of AM Now, Matt Fisser takes the reins while Adam and Nicole attend the AICPA conference. Matt covers the SEC's emphasis on the statement of cash flows, emphasizing its integral role in financial statements and the need for consistent scrutiny and audit procedures. He also explores other topics, including the FASB's recent ASU on reportable segment disclosures, providing a breakdown of key requirements, including the disclosure of significant segment expenses and alignment...
Dec 05, 2023•7 min
Putting a bow on our deals lifecycle series, we're joined by Embark deals expert Brett John for a candid chat on crafting exit strategies. From initiating a sale to closing with confidence, we explore the practical steps and emotional roller coaster of letting go of a business. Learn about aligning objectives, negotiating terms, and the often overlooked importance of timing and employee consideration. This one’s a must-listen for anyone navigating the exhausting yet exhilarating complexities of ...
Dec 04, 2023•27 min•Ep. 67
Join your AM Now host Adam Olsen for another week of what’s happening in accounting and finance, including stories on: The strategic alliance between EFRAG and CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project) aimed at expediting the adoption of the ESRS New plans from the GRI (Global Reporting Initiative) for its upcoming Sustainability Innovation Lab (SIL), marking a significant stride on the sustainability reporting front The November 8 FASB meeting on two key projects: Targeted improvements to the statement o...
Nov 16, 2023•8 min
Building on the eye-opening conversation we had in the first episode of our newest podcast series, this second episode cranks it up to 11. How is that even possible, you ask? Well, how about an in-depth, no-holds-barred look at what happens next once the diligence dust settles and the buyer and seller are both ready to move forward with the deal? Buckle up, folks, because this is a good one. For more information on post-diligence needs and related topics: M&A Data Integration Drives Successf...
Nov 13, 2023•35 min•Ep. 66
Join Embarkers Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger for another spirited episode of AM Now, where they discuss important topics like: A three-judge panel recently concluded the SEC exhibited arbitrary and capricious behavior when enacting the share repurchase disclosure rules The SEC’s announcement concerning certain data quality matters on the labeling of income statement line items The November 1 FASB board meeting, discussing the proposed profit interest awards ASU and government grants received by b...
Nov 08, 2023•8 min
Buckle up for an extra spooky serving of accounting and finance news from Embarkers Adam Olsen and Matt Fisser, including stories on: The European Parliament recently moving forward with the finalization of the first twelve sector-agnostic ESRSs following the close of the open-scrutiny period Australia and Brazil both advancing their use of the ISSB’s global baseline for sustainability reporting Comments from the SEC on its ever-gestating climate-related reporting rule 2024 examination prioritie...
Oct 31, 2023•13 min
A lot goes into a successful business transaction. A lot. So in this first part of our latest M&A series, your faithful Embarkers are taking a deep dive into all of those pre-transaction activities that help ensure you start off on the right foot. A little bit of due diligence goes a long way so pull up a chair! For more information on buy-side transactions and related topics: Buy-Side Due Diligence: Report Checklist and Guide for M&A and Other Transactions Purchase Accounting: Valuation...
Oct 30, 2023•34 min•Ep. 65
Just as they do every week, Embarkers Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger are here to deliver the accounting and finance news, including: A brief overview of the SEC’s most recent rule amendments governing beneficial ownership reporting Tentative board decisions coming from the FASB’s October 11th meeting. Findings from the TCFD’s 2023 status report. For more information on these and related topics: SEC Fact Sheet: Modernization of Beneficial Ownership Reporting Tentative Board Decisions: Wednesday, Oc...
Oct 18, 2023•11 min
As promised, given the size and importance of the EU’s CSRD and ESRS – and what they might mean for your company and reporting – we’re coming back at you with part 2 of our discussion on this critical topic. So, as usual, find a comfy seat because Embarkers Nicole Harger, Adam Olsen, and Robby Sunberg are coming at you with a metric ton of invaluable insights. For more information on CSRD, ESRS, and related topics: The ESRS Skinny: What the European Sustainability Reporting Standards Mean for Yo...
Oct 16, 2023•24 min•Ep. 64
Don’t fear, friends…Embarkers Adam Olsen and Matt Fisser are back with what’s going on in accounting and finance this week, including: ASU 2023-06, the FASB’s response to the SEC’s Disclosure Update and Simplification Initiative. The FASB’s Oct 4 meeting focused on two key items: Codification improvements and EITF Issue No. 23-A, “Induced Conversions of Convertible Debt Instruments.” California’s forward-looking, trend-setting climate reporting bills, SB 253 and SB 261. The final edition of the ...
Oct 10, 2023•10 min
You’ve read the headlines. Perused the articles. Maybe even had a convo or two on the topic. But now it’s time to get to the ESRS nitty gritty with your trusted Accounting Matters embarkers. So get comfy with Nicole Harger, Adam Olsen, and Robby Sunberg for this first half of a two-fer on all things CSRD and ESRS. You, your sustainability reporting, and stakeholders won’t be sorry. For more information on CSRD, ESRS, and related topics: The ESRS Skinny: What the European Sustainability Reporting...
Oct 09, 2023•25 min•Ep. 63
In this week’s episode of Accounting Matters, Embarkers Adam Olsen, Zac Smith, and Nicole Harger discuss a topic that’s been on a lot of CFOs’ minds lately – ASC 326, better known as CECL. This time, it’s private companies stepping into the batter’s box, and our resident GAAP gurus are here to provide all of the juicy details. So join in, won’t you?! For more information on CECL and related topics: Preparing for the Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL) Model ASU 2022-02: Financial Instruments, Cr...
Oct 02, 2023•38 min
If you want to know what’s going on this week in accounting and finance, Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger have your back with some critical updates, including: An update on the tentative FASB board decisions on its project focused on the accounting for and disclosure of software costs. Decisions from the Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) that, if a consensus is reached, would require entities to apply the pre-existing contract approach when accounting for induced conversions of cash convertible de...
Sep 27, 2023•12 min
Want to know what’s happening in accounting and finance today? Then join Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger for this episode of AM Now, where they discuss: CA SB 253 and SB 261, requiring certain U.S. companies to disclose their complete GHG emissions across their value chains as well as climate-related risks The EU Commission consultation to enhance sustainable financial disclosure practices, particularly focusing on the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) The IASB announcement on propos...
Sep 19, 2023•8 min
As comprehensive as your financial reporting should be, it’s not the end-all-be-all. In fact, as we dicsuss in this episode of the Accounting Matters podcast, plenty can slip through the GAAP cracks, making non-GAAP measures/disclosures critical for stakeholders. So join us for a lively convo on these measures, including some key best practices and insights from Embark’s troop of SEC reporting dynamos. For more information on non-GAAP financial measures and related topics: SEC: Non-GAAP Measures...
Sep 18, 2023•32 min•Ep. 62
Pull up a chair, good friend, because Embarker Matt Fisser is back with even more news from the accounting and finance world, including: The FASB Board’s recent deliberation on accounting for and disclosing crypto assets, also confirming the scope of the proposed ASU The SEC’s Division of Corporate Finance released an illustrative letter with sample comments to guide companies in their use of XBRL and Inline XBRL For more information on these and related topics: FASB Project Update: Accounting f...
Sep 12, 2023•6 min
Have a seat for another week of updates from the accounting & finance world, where Embarkers Adam Olsen and Matt Fisser discuss topics like: An investor coalition with >$1B assets recently urged the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) to prioritize human capital and human rights in its next round of global reporting standards. The FASB‘s recent board meeting, discussing one of its key projects on its technical agenda – improvements to income tax disclosures. A new chapter ...
Sep 07, 2023•8 min
The digital world is bananas. You’ve seen The Matrix, right? Countless bad peeps with bad intentions, all staring lovingly at your critical business data – and not in a good way. So join us for this very special episode of the Accounting Matters podcast as we dive into the new SEC cybersecurity rules, why they’re so essential, and, perhaps most importantly, what they mean for your company and financial reporting. For more information on the SEC cybersecurity rules: Understanding the SEC Cybersec...
Sep 05, 2023•35 min•Ep. 61
Guess what? Embarkers Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger are back at it with this week’s goings-on in accounting and finance, including: The FASB’s recent Accounting Standards Update 2023-05 aimed at enhancing transparency and consistency in financial reporting for joint ventures. New SEC rules and amendments under the Advisers Act designed to provide better safeguards for investors and ensure greater transparency in the private fund sector. The SEC’s announcement on reopening the comment period for i...
Aug 29, 2023•8 min
Join AM Now hosts Adam Olsen and Nicole Harger for another dose of what’s happening in accounting and finance these days, including: Highlights from the recently released third annual FASB Investor Outreach Report, which sheds light on the Financial Accounting Standards Board's engagement with investors Overview of the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the European Commission’s new reporting rules for importers involved in CBAM The future of the SASB Standards amidst the recent ...
Aug 23, 2023•9 min