Accounting and Advisory Report: Forces Shaping the Competitive Landscape

Is investment banking burnout still an issue within the industry? And if so, how can banks combat this? Find out from the 200+ finance professionals surveyed in this report.

Accounting and Advisory report: Workflow weaknesses, competition state, and key takeaways.

How Can Accounting and Advisory Firms Stay Competitive in 2025 and Beyond?

Over the past few years, the Accounting and Advisory sector has undergone significant transformation. From political and economic uncertainty, accelerating technological change, to a rise in M&A activity – firms are navigating a more complex and competitive landscape than ever before.

Our “Accounting and Advisory 2025 Report” explores a critical question all companies within the sector, regardless of size, are facing today: “what’s holding us back from winning more deals?”

We explore key obstacles shaping firms’ ability to compete with bigger players, including:

  • Workflows and processes
  • Brand identity
  • Software investments

Dive into the report to hear actionable insights on investing in the right automation and generative AI solutions.

Accounting and Advisory Trends:
Key Report Findings

Firms Are Facing the Big Four on the Majority of Their Deals

Even though companies of all sizes are regularly competing on the same deals, only 12% of small to mid-tier firms say they uphold a strong win rate (winning 75% of deals) against the Big Four.

Insufficient Resources, Outdated Tools, and Ineffective Pitches Impact Win Rates

When asked what’s preventing them from winning more business, insufficient resources (e.g. headcount) and outdated technology were the top two factors.

99% of Respondents Recognized That Their Firm Has Branding-Related Issues

Inconsistent branding across global/regional subsidiaries or departments was voted the primary obstacle when it comes to brand reputation.

Most Firms Are Using a Document Automation Tool but Only a Third Get Maximum Usage

Medium and large-sized firms report lower levels of software usage than their smaller counterparts.

99% of Firms Believe There Is a Risk in Not Investing in AI/Automation Tools

Despite the challenges, nearly all firms see software as a non-negotiable, concerned that they will lose more deals without it.

Those With Previous Software Challenges Demonstrate a Lingering Reluctance to Invest

Half of respondents who get minimal usage from their existing software voted that AI/automation software is not a priority for their firm.

Growing Pains in Accounting and Advisory: Challenges Across the Sector

Discover the biggest obstacles boutique to medium sized accounting and advisory firms face across the UK and US in our latest thought leadership blog.

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