In early December, over 100 tax and accounting professionals attended the annual EY Austin CPE Conference at The Line Hotel. Supported by sponsors HPI and Hire Solutions, the event focused on current trends in finance and accounting.
The conference aimed to provide updates on tax policy and planning, discuss the influence of artificial intelligence on finance and accounting, examine recent developments in financial reporting and regulation, and offer an outlook on US economic conditions.
EY partners and guest speakers discussed recent SEC activities as well as how technology is changing compliance and reporting. The session covering financial reporting looked at SEC rulemaking, enforcement actions, comment letter trends, non-GAAP measures, segment reporting, and revenue recognition. Attendees learned about best practices for disclosures in light of these changes.
Taylor Sisson, EY Austin Office Managing Partner, said: “The big takeaway was that proactive engagement with regulators is more important than ever, and I appreciated the great discussion on what that engagement should look like. That’s our goal with this conference: to share ideas and perspectives with leaders in our community and give Austin professionals a valuable opportunity to build relationships.”
Artificial intelligence was another key topic. EY leaders described how AI can be used for reconciliations, preparing financial statements, improving risk management, and enhancing audit quality. They also addressed governance strategies when adopting AI tools within businesses.
As economic uncertainty continues into 2026, participants left the conference with specific action plans. Sisson added: “What I appreciate most about our CPE conference is how everyone leaves with action plans already in mind. It’s motivating to see more than a hundred passionate professionals come together to learn how they can strengthen their careers, their businesses and our broader economy.”
Sisson noted that the event fostered a sense of community among attendees during a time of rapid change.
Those interested in future EY Austin CPE Conferences are encouraged to email AustinOfficeCommunications@ey.com for more information.
