Forensic & Litigation Valuation – Under the Microscope in Arizona
The Praxity FLVS Tax Conference, Scottsdale, AZ
An important part of Praxity’s North American calendar, the FLVS (Forensic and Litigation Valuation Services) Conference 2023 recently took place at the beautiful McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona. As delegates mingled in the al fresco courtyard, guest speakers and industry experts prepared their materials for an intense schedule. The highly focused conference programme has two tracks running concurrently, with each geared to its own specialism - valuation and litigation - and towards experts in that area. With November the perfect time to enjoy the sunny Arizona weather, the conference also featured programmes for non-technical topics alongside, with sessions on Employee Engagement and Gender & Orientation Inclusion of particular use to all delegates.
North America has its own themes and specific concerns, which echo with the rest of the world but have a particular expression in this hugely important region. Legislation varies by state and province and is constantly under review by legislators, making both litigation and valuation areas of intense scrutiny. Given the size of the marketplace, staying up-to-date and agile in this environment puts any firm towards the forefront globally. Knowing this, Praxity leaders are some of the foremost experts in their fields, and the chance to meet and share experience makes the conference a valuable resource for Praxity Alliance members. The FLVS conference also counts towards CPE (Continuing Professional Education) credits for attendees.
The conference opened with a state-of-play address from leading Market Strategist Patrick Fearon-Hernandez, of Confluence Investment Management. Along with a review of recent trends and an array of near-term forecasts, the experienced economist spoke about the impact of Baby Boomer retirement on the economy, as well as an assessment of how geopolitical movements were affecting financial predictions. North America and the US Dollar in particular remain bellwethers for the global outlook.
A session entitled “Keeping Pace with AI” was aimed at all attendees and delivered by Max Halasz of Kaufman, Rossin & Co, and Kyle Sutton of Plante Moran. They began by comparing AI discourse with the discussion around nuclear power, demonstrating the similarities in cost/benefit analysis. There was also a discussion about how AI was already integrated into modern living, as well as how Accountancy is adopting its use. Implications of the technology on the world were explored, as well as showing delegates its effective use in real-world industry examples.
Addressing all in attendance at the McCormick Ranch, Joseph Zolobczuk of the YES Insititute gave a talk exploring the subject of Gender and Orientation Inclusion, aiming to promote a healthier workplace conversation about gender expectations, parental leave, equity for LGBTQ+ individuals and the case for diverse teams. Exploring ethical as well as business concerns, he began by asking the delegates to reflect and share their own experiences with assumptions or prejudice. Speaking on the importance of different perspectives, he went on to explore legal precedents in the US, as well as their bearing on tax issues for different situations. Insightful, wide-ranging and full of unexpected subtleties, Joseph’s presentation was a standout.
The FLVS Conference takes a global perspective on regional concerns. Close examination of key technical concerns makes this event a hugely important part of the Praxity calendar, while the broad range of experience among the 139 delegates allows the programme to add strength in depth to all member firms, as well as the whole Praxity Alliance.
Michael Shekel and Ancheng Luo presenting.
The Praxity FLVS Tax Conference 2024
If you or your firm are interested in attending the FLVS Conference, or joining the FLVS working group, please get in touch with us at conferences@praxity.com