The landscape of the CPA profession has undergone significant transformation over the past several decades. While the mid-to-late 20th century saw a surge in new firm formations, the number of CPA firm startups have notably declined in recent years. Consolidation, private equity investments, and mergers and acquisitions have reshaped the competitive environment, leaving fewer opportunities for new firms to gain traction. This shift raises questions about the evolving dynamics of the accounting profession, the challenges faced by emerging firms and the future of industry growth. Analyzing the patterns behind firm creation and expansion provides valuable insight into the forces driving change in today’s CPA landscape.
Dive deeper into this article with exclusive commentary from Allan D. Koltin, CEO of Koltin Consulting Group, who brings four decades of experience advising the nation’s top CPA firms. Order your April IPA Insight to explore trends in accounting!
