The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) has released global research examining the sharp rise in private equity (PE) investment in professional accountancy practices and its possible long-term impacts.
The study looks at how this wave of investment is reshaping deal structures, internal governance, independence safeguards, audit quality, and competitive dynamics, including consolidation.
Access deeper industry intelligence
Experience unmatched clarity with a single platform that combines unique data, AI, and human expertise.
The IFAC also engaged with industry stakeholders to assess the “attractiveness of the profession”.
The research identified more than 1,000 companies worldwide that have received PE investment over the past decade, with a marked pick-up in activity since 2022.
Although most transactions so far are clustered in Continental Europe, the UK and Ireland, and the US, the IFAC notes that the pattern is now exerting influence across the global profession.
According to the research, less than 200 initial or direct PE deals have led to the closure of 900 subsequent transactions, indicating an extensive consolidation drive across accountancy practices.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataIFAC Private Equity Task Force chair Fiona Wilkinson added: “As Chair of a task force of volunteers established by IFAC last year, I have had the opportunity to talk with many experts representing different points of view on the potential risks and benefits of PE investment in the accountancy profession. Our approach has been balanced and data-driven.
“I encourage leaders in the profession to do the same and to assess whether or not, over the long run, firms that focus on the benefits and opportunities of PE investment – while managing the potential challenges and risks – can become more resilient, future-fit and more attractive, while upholding their public interest responsibility.”
The IFAC added that it plans to keep working with its member bodies and wider stakeholders to monitor developments and share insights on the accountancy profession.
