As signs of market stabilization emerge, companies are reassessing their deal strategies for 2026. In this episode, we explore IPO and M&A trends, the influence of AI and macroeconomic shifts, and the steps finance teams can take now to be ready for what’s next.

In this episode, we discuss:

• 3:35 – Where the deals market stands today
• 9:38 – Deals outlook for 2026
• 17:35 – Expected IPOs and financing trends for 2026
• 25:28 – What finance leaders and teams can do now to prepare

For more read our publications, US Capital Markets 2026 Outlook—IPO markets look primed to accelerate in 2026 and The next wave of M&A: Bigger and bolder deals driven by AI and private equity—US Deals 2026 outlook. Also, be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.

About our guest

Mike Bellin is a PwC Deals partner who leads PwC’s US Capital Markets practice. Mike advises clients on accessing the debt and equity capital markets by providing clients with technical/project management advice on complex accounting and financial reporting issues associated with the SEC registration process, IPOs, direct listings, SPAC mergers, 144A debt and equity offerings, divestitures, spinoffs and carve-outs, and GAAP conversions.

About our host

Heather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. She is also the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com

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In this episode, we share key insights and reminders on navigating materiality judgments. We revisit the fundamentals of SAB 99, explore how to apply both quantitative and qualitative considerations, address identified errors, and more.

In this episode, we discuss:

• 3:53 – The framework for assessing materiality and errors in financial statements
• 8:51 – Addressing identified errors
• 15:01 – Reassessing materiality amid economic and other changes
• 19:48 – Trends in reporting errors, including cash flow statement impacts
• 23:09 – Fraud and illegal acts

In case you missed it, check out the previous episode in this year-end miniseries, Year-end toolkit: Accounting and reporting reminders for 2026.

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About our guest

Michael Mullen is PwC’s US Assurance Quality Management leader. In this role, he oversees complex client issues, providing technical insights and expertise in support of overall quality. With over 35 years of client service experience, Michael has led numerous global client engagements.

About our guest host

Diana Stoltzfus is a partner in the National Office who helps to shape PwC’s perspectives on regulatory matters, responses to rulemakings and policy development, and implementation related to significant new rules and regulations. Prior to rejoining PwC, Diana was the Deputy Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where she led the activities of the OCA’s Professional Practices Group.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com

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This episode explores key accounting and reporting considerations for year-end financial reporting. Technical leaders from our National Office share reminders and timely insights across a range of topics, including tariffs, income taxes, held-for-sale accounting, and other emerging issues–topics that are relevant for all finance teams, even if it’s not year-end close time.

In this episode, we discuss:

• 1:52 – AI mega-deal structuring and related accounting and reporting complexities
• 11:30 – Equity method accounting considerations and related disclosures
• 15:58 – Tariffs and trade considerations, including inventory impacts
• 21:38 – Crypto asset accounting models and new FASB guidance
• 25:16 – Accounting and reporting for private credit transactions
• 33:00 – Tax reform developments and income tax accounting
• 40:00 – New ASUs related to derivatives and hedge accounting
• 42:52 – Held-for-sale accounting
• 46:00 – OECD Pillar 2 and global tax

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About our guests

Bret Dooley is a PwC National Office Deputy Chief Accountant who leads teams focused on the financial services sectors and accounting for financial instruments. He has over 25 years of experience in the financial services, banking, and capital markets industries. Bret focuses on emerging financial reporting issues related to financial instruments, developing interpretive guidance, and assisting clients in resolving complex accounting matters.

Pat Durbin is a PwC National Office Deputy Chief Accountant. 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.

Beth Paul is a PwC National Office Deputy Chief Accountant responsible for a team of consultants that specialize in business combinations and related areas, such as consolidations, disposals, impairments, and segment reporting. She has over 30 years of experience consulting with clients and engagement teams on complex accounting matters.

About our guest host

Tom Barbieri is PwC’s US Chief Accountant. He has over 30 years of experience advising large financial services and multinational corporations on complex accounting issues. Tom leads the Accounting & SEC Services Group within the National Office, which is focused on supporting our clients and engagement teams in navigating complex technical accounting and financial reporting matters. He is also a member of the Financial Accounting Standards Advisory Council.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com

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