Pwc's Cfodirect Podcast

We continue our SEC-focused series with a discussion of segment disclosures, reporting trends, and early comment letter themes emerging from the adoption of the new standard. In this episode, we explore common staff observations, including the role of the Chief Operating Decision Maker, or CODM; significant expense disclosures; and interplay with non-GAAP measures.In this episode, we discuss:1:46 – Why segment disclosures remain a top SEC focus8:04 – Early comment themes under the new standard15:14 – Multiple profit measures and non-GAAP considerations28:14 – How the SEC evaluates a company’s segment structure35:28 – Ongoing reassessment of impacts to segmentsIn case you missed it, check out the previous episodes in this SEC-focused series:SEC now: 2025 comment letter trends on transactionsSEC now: Non-GAAP 2025 comment letter trendsSEC now: Today’s landscape and recent developmentsBe sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our

A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.comThe GHG Protocol has released its long-awaited proposed updates to the Scope 2 Guidance. In this episode, we highlight the key changes in the exposure draft, including proposed revisions to location-based and market-based reporting, hourly matching, emission factor hierarchies, and more. We also explore what these developments could mean for companies and how stakeholders can participate in the revision process.In this episode, we discuss:2:49 – Redefining the purpose for location-based and market-based reporting5:33 – The importance of the decision-making criteria6:56 – New emission factor hierarchy for location-based reporting14:30 – Shift toward hourly matching in the market-based method21:53 – Deliverability criteria and implications for renewable energy credits26:19 – Residual mix and fossil-only defaults for unclaimed energy32:45 – How companies can share feedback and next steps for the Scope 2 guidanceFor mor

We continue our SEC-focused series with a discussion on transaction-related matters, including IPOs, mergers and acquisitions, spinoffs, and divestitures. Our guests share insights into the SEC preclearance process and common SEC comment letter themes. Getting ahead of these issues can help avoid delays that may significantly impact deal timing and disclosures.In this episode, we discuss:3:56 – Overview of 2025 IPO and M&A market activity7:08 – SEC preclearance process and common issues19:59 – Typical transaction filing review comment letter themes32:49 – Final takeaways on anticipating and addressing SEC commentsFor more information:Going for a spin: Accounting and reporting for spinoffsFinancial statement presentation guideBusiness combinations guideIn case you missed it, check out the previous episodes in this SEC-focused series: SEC now: Today’s landscape and recent developmentsSEC now: Non-GAAP 2025 comment letter trendsFor more on the SEC, listen to our recent episode on frequency of reporting, SEC

We continue our SEC-focused series with an episode on non-GAAP financial measures, commonly used by companies to supplement their financial statements and provide investors with a deeper understanding of their performance or financial condition. Given their importance, it’s been a top focus area for the SEC staff over the last several years, and we expect that trend to continue. We highlight common comment letter themes and share practical guidance for year-end reporting and comment letter responses.In this episode, we discuss:2:17 – Overview of non-GAAP measures 6:20 – SEC comment letter trends and recurring issues23:15– Possible shifts in focus under the new SEC administration27:35 – Year-end reminders and best practices for responding to SEC commentsIn case you missed it, check out our first episode in this SEC-focused series: SEC now: Today’s landscape and recent developments.For more on the SEC, listen to our recent episode on frequency of reporting, SEC to revisit quarterly reporting: Pros, cons, and wh

The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) is a widely-cited metric used to compare the cost of energy from different power sources—but it’s often misunderstood and misused. This week, host Heather Horn is joined by Karl Hausker, Senior Fellow at the World Resources Institute’s Polsky Center for the Global Energy Transition, to cover what LCOE really measures, why it’s not the full story, and how it fits into the broader effort to decarbonize the power sector. Together, they explore what companies and regulators should consider when evaluating clean energy investments and transition plans.In this episode, we discuss:5:23 – What LCOE measures—and what it misses11:29 – Why LCOE shouldn’t drive policy decisions25:20 – Implications for companies and scope 2 emissions31:41 – The future energy mixAs referenced in this episode, explore Karl Hausker’s companion slides for more information.At the time of recording, the GHG Protocol exposure drafts on scope 2 had not yet been released. Check out GHG Protocol announces Sc

In this episode, we kick off a new SEC-focused series with an overview of current developments shaping SEC reporting. Our guests unpack recent leadership changes, the evolving rulemaking agenda, reporting themes, and key trends in SEC comment letters.In this episode, we discuss:1:54 – SEC leadership updates8:31 – Rulemaking agenda and expected priorities15:29 – Rulemaking challenges: staff capacity and shutdown constraints18:27 – Government shutdown effects on IPOs and the SEC review process24:09 – SEC comment letter themes and focus areasFor more, listen to our recent episode on frequency of reporting, SEC to revisit quarterly reporting: Pros, cons, and what’s ahead. Also, check out our SEC reporting series from earlier this year where we take a “back to basics” look at key reporting areas:Inside SEC reporting: Capital formationInside SEC reporting: Acquisitions and divestituresInside SEC reporting: Pro forma financial informationInside SEC reporting: Form 8-K (current report)Be sure to follow this podcast o

A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.comIn this episode, we take a closer look at the modernization of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol and its implications for sustainability reporting with a member of the GHG Protocol’s Independent Standards Board, Paul Munter. Paul shares insights on the evolving governance structure, the newly released scope 2 guidance, and the growing importance of interoperability in global sustainability reporting.In this episode, we discuss:0:58 – What’s driving the modernization of GHG Protocol standards3:31 – The governance model, including the role of the Independent Standards Board9:06 – Highlights of the scope 2 public consultation and the importance of stakeholder feedback17:46 – Interoperability with other sustainability reporting frameworks21:36 – Updates under review for the Corporate Standard and the Scope 3 Standard26:40 – What companies can be doing now to prepare for upcoming changes32:27 – The role of boards and aud

In this episode, we explore the FASB’s new software cost guidance and its impact on accounting for internal‑use software—what’s in scope, how to evaluate the revised capitalization criteria, the effective date and transition, and other key changes. We also take a deeper dive into AI‑related software development.In this episode, we discuss:0:00 – Background and scope on the FASB’s new ASU on internal-use software costs11:10 – Capitalization criteria, including “significant development uncertainty”20:38 – Examples of evaluating “significant development uncertainty”30:50 – Other insights and updates related to the software costs guidance34:00 – Effective date of the ASU and transition methods37:41 – Accounting considerations for AI-related software developmentFor more: FASB updates software cost guidance, Software costs guideAlso, be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestsPat Durbin is a PwC National Office Deputy Chief

A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.comThe SEC is revisiting how often public companies report, weighing a shift from required quarterly Form 10‑Qs to a semiannual cadence. We explore what’s driving the debate and the implications for companies, investors, and markets.In this episode, we discuss:1:55 – Why the SEC is revisiting quarterly reporting now and how we got here12:13 – Pros and cons of moving to semiannual reporting19:32 – Global and industry-specific trends in interim reporting22:44 – Practical and operational implications of shifting to semiannual reporting29:10 – SEC rulemaking process and potential next steps31:57 – FASB’s role in interim disclosure standard settingFor more on current interim reporting requirements, see chapter 29 of our Financial statement presentation guide. Be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop. About our guestsTom Barbieri is PwC’s US Chief

A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.comGreenhouse gas (GHG) reporting continues to evolve, with companies facing increasing complexity in navigating frameworks, data quality, and materiality. In this episode, we explore recurring themes and practical challenges in GHG disclosures—from organizational boundaries to the role of renewable energy credits (RECs)—with insights from our specialists deeply engaged in global sustainability reporting.In this episode, we discuss:1:22 – GHG reporting landscape and regulatory shifts5:01 – Materiality, alignment with financial reporting, and minimum boundaries23:48 – Organizational boundaries and key decisions companies are facing31:35 – Scope 2 renewable energy certificates: timing, location, and use43:00 – Systems, tools, and data quality, including preparing for reporting and assuranceLooking for more on GHG and sustainability reporting?Sustainability now: Inside the GHG Protocol’s scope 3 updateSustainability now:

In today’s episode, we unpack the complexities of spinoff transactions and their accounting implications. From identifying spinoffs to addressing key financial reporting considerations, our guests share practical guidance and insights for companies planning or evaluating these strategic moves.In this episode, we discuss:1:12 – Overview of spinoff transactions9:08 – Accounting and reporting considerations for spinoff transactions23:56 – Post-spin accounting considerations for the spinnor27:50 – Final advice for a company planning a spinoffFor more on spinoffs, read our Financial statement presentation and Carve out financial statements guides. You can also tune in to last week’s episode, Sale of a business – Held for sale criteria, disc ops, and more, for further discussion on the presentation of discontinued operations.Be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestsMatt Sabatini is a partner in PwC's National Office w

A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.comIn this episode, host Heather Horn is joined by Colin Powell, a PwC Canada partner and member of the GHG Protocol’s Scope 3 Standard Technical Working Group. They discuss key areas for change under consideration, including minimum boundaries and data quality disclosures, as well as what these updates could mean for the future of sustainability reporting. In this episode, we discuss:1:12 – Overview of the Scope 3 Technical Working Group and the current areas of focus12:36 – Minimum boundaries, data quality, and feasibility30:39 – Category 15 (Investments), plus facilitated and insurance emissions35:55 – Timeline for the revised Scope 3 Standard and why companies should engage now44:56 – Final takeaways on the evolving scope 3 landscapeAt the time of recording, the GHG Protocol exposure drafts on scope 2 had not yet been released. Check out GHG Protocol announces Scope 2 Public Consultations for more information.Looki

In today’s episode, we explore the accounting implications of selling a business—an increasingly relevant topic in today’s market. From initial considerations through the final disposition, we break down key accounting judgments, classification, and presentation requirements.In this episode, we discuss:2:32 – Held-for-sale criteria14:00 – Accounting implications of held-for-sale classification19:25 – Accounting for the gain or loss on the sale of a business 25:50 – Discontinued operations criteria33:00 – Discontinued operations presentation requirementsFor more information, check out chapter 6 of our Property, plant, equipment and other assets guide, chapter 8  and 27 of our Financial statement presentation guide. Also, listen to our previous podcast episode, Presenting discontinued operations.Be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestsMatt Sabatini is a partner in PwC's National Office who helps clients and engag

In this episode, host Heather Horn sat down with Mardi McBrien, Senior Director at the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), during New York Climate Week to discuss the evolving world of sustainability reporting. The conversation covers how companies are navigating fragmented frameworks, the growing importance of transition plans, and the movement toward greater simplification and integration of reporting. In this episode, we discuss:1:15 – The role of the WBCSD and the focus on corporate performance7:24 – Challenges companies face in a compliance-driven reporting environment12:28 – Breaking down silos across functions and topics and integrating sustainability into strategy24:15 – Transition plans and the credibility of business strategies29:00 – Global baseline progress and alignment across reporting frameworks41:22 – Key themes from the New York Climate WeekAs mentioned in today’s podcast, check out When less equals more: rethinking sustainability reporting for insights from the roundt

In this episode of our crypto asset mini-series, we explore common transaction types—stablecoins, staking, and lending. The discussion addresses the accounting, including how contract terms and fact patterns can significantly influence the appropriate accounting model.In this episode, we discuss:2:17 – Overview of stablecoins, including the impact of the GENIUS Act9:01 – Accounting for stablecoins15:50 – Overview of staking and the accounting by delegators24:14 – Accounting for crypto asset lending transactionsFor more information, see our Crypto assets guide. You can also listen to the previous episode in this series, Crypto assets – Accounting and reporting foundations.Be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestsBeth Paul is a Deputy Chief Accountant in PwC’s National Office responsible for a team of consultants that specialize in business combinations and related areas, such as consolidations, disposals, impairments,

Crypto assets are rapidly evolving – and so is the accounting and financial reporting. In this episode, we explore regulatory trends and market developments, including new FASB guidance.In this episode, we discuss:01:22 – Market trends, regulatory shifts, and financial reporting developments 06:10 – Key developments from the SEC on crypto09:44 – Accounting classification of crypto assets11:55 – Key provisions of the FASB’s crypto assets guidance23:12 – Fair value measurement considerationsFor more information, see our Crypto assets guide. Be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop.About our guestsBeth Paul is a Deputy Chief Accountant in PwC’s National Office 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.

A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.comThis week, host Heather Horn is joined by Eelco van der Enden, CEO of Accountancy Europe. In this episode, we explore the fast-changing reporting and assurance landscape across Europe, including sustainability reporting and broader regulatory shifts. We examine the forces driving simplification, cross-border alignment, and the future of the accounting profession—and what it all means for companies operating in or doing business with the EU.In this episode, we discuss:1:55 – The evolving role of Accountancy Europe and how it engages with EU institutions3:35 – Broader forces shaping Europe’s reporting and investment landscape14:55 – Bridging the knowledge gap between the profession, policymakers, and society30:18 – Advice for US companies navigating EU sustainability regulations33:19 – Accountancy Europe’s Purpose 2030 project and industry benchmarking efforts35:35 – AI, digitalization, and their implications for the

A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.comIn this episode, we continue our series on the European Commission’s Omnibus package with a September update that focuses on the proposed amendments to the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). We explore how the changes aim to simplify reporting, reduce disclosure burdens, and enhance interoperability, and we highlight key implications for companies preparing sustainability statements.In this episode, we discuss:1:22 – The European Commission’s Omnibus package and mandate for ESRS changes5:50 – Overview of changes made to the ESRS9:10 – Updates to ESRS 1 and 2: reducing duplication, increasing flexibility20:10 – Clarifying reporting boundaries, including leases and GHG emissions34:40 – Interoperability with ISSB standards and where ESRS diverge37:42 – Next steps in the amendment process and what companies should do nowGet caught up on the EU Omnibus package:A deep dive into draft Amended ESRSSustainab

A video of this podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, or PwC’s website at viewpoint.pwc.comIn this episode, we explore insights from PwC’s Global Sustainability Reporting Survey featuring nearly 500 executives worldwide. Recorded during New York City Climate Week, the conversation highlights how companies are using sustainability data to drive strategy, respond to stakeholder pressure, and prepare for evolving regulations.In this episode, we discuss:1:14 – Key takeaways from New York City Climate Week3:40 – Overview of PwC’s Global Sustainability Reporting Survey and its purpose8:42 – How companies are using sustainability data to inform risk, resilience, and opportunity11:14 – Lessons from early reporters: tech adoption, resource needs, and AI use14:14 – The demand for transparencyLooking for more on PwC’s 2025 Global Sustainability Reporting Survey? Check out From insight to value: The sustainability reporting journey continuesAbout our guestNadja Picard is PwC’s Global Reporting Leader. She leads PwC’s

Significant developments are underway at the PCAOB. In this episode, we provide an overview on the latest changes, what’s on the horizon, and the potential implications for preparers. Our guest is Brian Croteau, PwC’s US Chief Auditor, who leads our team that follows all things PCAOB. In this episode, we discuss: 3:14 – A historical perspective on the PCAOB10:01 – Leadership changes at the SEC and PCAOB21:05 – Standard setting projects and priorities33:05 – Standard setting related to emerging technologies (e.g., AI, crypto)37:28 – Potential changes to the PCAOB’s inspection program 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 Brian Croteau is the US Chief Auditor. He oversees the establishment and maintenance of PwC’s audit policies and practices, leads efforts to directly support PwC’s audit quality objectives, and plays a key role in the monitoring and assessment of audit quality. He also leads the firm’s efforts rel