In the News - October 27, 2025

As October winds down,  Las Vegas is heating up with the kickoff of Intuit Connect this week. Read on for the latest news in accounting;  Learn how Kristen Keats finds joy in accounting on the latest Woodard Report podcast episode, an update by The Journal of Accountancy with the state of the accounting graduate pipeline, new features in QuickBooks Payroll you’ll want to know about, and more. We’ve curated the top stories this week across your favorite news outlets.

What’s Happening at Woodard

Finding Joy in Accounting: Redefining Success and Work-Life Balance (The Woodard Report Podcast)

In episode 144 of The Woodard Report Podcast, Heather Satterley interviews Kristen Keats (Breakaway Bookkeeping & Advising; Sherwood Tax & Accounting; Cadencia) on reclaiming fulfillment in practice. They discuss reframing compliance as advisory, documenting value throughout the year, setting boundaries, and redesigning pricing and workflows to reduce stress while sustaining revenue. 

The Woodard Team is in Las Vegas this Week at Intuit Connect

Intuit Connect 2025 kicks off this week at the Aria in Las Vegas. This year’s lineup features keynote speakers Sasan Goodarzi, Brené Brown, Queen Latifah, and other influential voices exploring AI, leadership, and firm transformation. The Woodard Report team is in town for a week of networking and learning and will cover event highlights, including key product announcements, educational sessions, and community moments. Stay tuned for daily recaps and expert takeaways. 

Workforce & Professional Development

The Accounting Graduate Pipeline: Where Do Things Stand? (Journal of Accountancy)

Enrollment in accounting programs has stabilized after years of decline, according to AICPA data. However, challenges remain in attracting and retaining diverse candidates, particularly among Gen Z. The article highlights how the profession must rethink its messaging and work-life balance to appeal to a new generation.

Now’s the Time to Review Your Accounting Firm’s WISP (Accounting Today)

With cyber threats on the rise, firms are encouraged to reassess their Written Information Security Programs (WISPs). This opinion piece outlines why Q4 is an ideal time to update cybersecurity protocols and prepare for 2026 compliance requirements.

Technology & Tools

QuickBooks Monday Minute: Fixing Past Quarterly Payroll Periods in QBO Payroll (Insightful Accountant)

This installment walks through correcting prior quarterly payroll periods in QBO Payroll—how to identify the issue, adjust filings, and reconcile so year-end reports remain accurate. Handy for cleanup work before W-2 season.

Keeper Rebrands to Double (CPA Practice Advisor)

Keeper, known for workflow and review tools serving bookkeeping/accounting teams, has rebranded as Double, signaling broader positioning around collaborative firm operations and client delivery. 

Xero App Store: Meet October’s Apps (Xero Dev Blog)

Xero’s October roundup includes several new apps that integrate with its ecosystem, including time-tracking tools, payment processors, and customer engagement platforms. The post highlights apps designed to help advisors build more efficient, tech-forward practices.

AI Leading to ‘Miracle-Level’ Productivity Gains (CPA Trendlines)

CPA Trendlines reports on the growing belief among firms that AI tools are driving record-setting productivity improvements. Firms using AI in tax prep, audit reviews, and advisory workflows cite time savings of 20–50% on core tasks.

Industry News

Hotel Industry Says Shutdown Costs $31M Per Day in Losses (CPA Practice Advisor)

A recent AHLA study shows the hospitality sector faces an estimated $31 million in daily losses during the federal government shutdown. These figures spotlight the ripple effects of legislative gridlock on adjacent industries—including advisory clients in travel, food services, and lodging.

BDO USA Claims Defamation Against Going Concern (CPA Practice Advisor)

BDO USA has filed a defamation lawsuit against Going Concern, alleging the publication made false and damaging claims. The complaint focuses on reports related to internal HR practices. The case may set precedent around commentary in accounting media.

That wraps up our In the News article this week! See you next week for another news round-up.

This article was written with the assistance of AI