The Daily Lowdown - January 14 2025

The Tuesday Lowdown ⬇️

If you're new around here, every day I share the 4-5 best accounting insights I saw in the past 24 hours.

I scroll. so you don't have to.

💎 WTF of the Day

Ohio Shakes Up CPA Licensing

Ohio just signed a new law creating alternate pathways to becoming a CPA. Instead of requiring 150 college credit hours, candidates can now qualify with two years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA.

The 150-hour rule has been a barrier for many, especially as college enrollment declines. By prioritizing on-the-job training over extra classroom time, Ohio is tackling the CPA talent shortage head on. Other states might follow if this experiment works.

💎 What’s poppin in accounting

Succession Planning Surge

Demand for succession planning advice is expected to skyrocket as baby boomer business owners prepare to retire. With nearly 60% of small business owners aged 55 or older, the need for clear plans to transition leadership or sell businesses is at an all-time high.

Accounting firms have a golden opportunity to step up as trusted advisors, helping clients navigate tax implications, valuation, and deal structuring. The firms that specialize in this could see major growth.

💎 Master 1099s Without Breaking a Sweat.

1099s Don’t Have to Suck

January headaches? Not anymore. Keeper makes W-9 collection stupid simple.

Keeper’s 1099 Report hooks into your QuickBooks or Xero account and flags every vendor that needs a 1099. Missing a W-9? No problem. Shoot a request straight from the Client Portal – to your clients or vendors.

No more scrambling. No more stress. Just effortless W-9 management baked into your monthly routine.

 📊 Weekly Trend Chart

Have We Hit Peak McDonald's?

McDonald’s might have reached its peak in the U.S. With 13,500 locations nationwide, store growth has slowed as the company shifts focus to innovation instead of expansion. Enter "CosMc's," their new beverage first concept aiming to revamp the brand’s image.

As competition heats up and fast food preferences shift, McDonald's is looking for ways to stay dominant without oversaturating the market. The big question? Will CosMc's bring in new customers or just spread existing ones thinner?

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