ForwardThinking Q1 2017
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The document provides insights and resources from Grant Thornton LLP aimed at helping clients navigate complex business environments shaped by regulatory changes, technology advancements, and competitive pressures. It includes analyses of tax developments, corporate governance challenges, and upcoming webcasts on topics such as risk management and compliance in various industries. Key articles and events discussed aim to equip businesses with the knowledge needed to address current and future challenges effectively.
ForwardThinking Q1 2017
- 1. ForwardThinking Insights to help solve today’s most pressing issues and tackle tomorrow’s challenges Q1 2017
- 2. ABOUT FORWARDTHINKING ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Today’s global business environment is marked by mounting regulatory requirements, profound technology changes, and a complex and competitive marketplace. We seek to bring high-quality service to our clients and relevant insights on the issues affecting their businesses. ForwardThinking is a look ahead at the latest knowledge and insights available from Grant Thornton LLP for our clients. It includes a collection of our research, thought leadership and a schedule of upcoming webcasts and events. The distinctive perspectives and featured events in ForwardThinking aim to help our clients navigate the opportunities, risks and challenges affecting their businesses.
- 3. GOVERNANCE, RISK AND COMPLIANCE 2017 State and Local Tax Outlook January 2017 This article will analyze issues faced by state legislatures at the outset of the 2017 legislative sessions, and identify likely occurrences in the state and local tax world in 2017. 2017 Corporate General Counsel Survey February 2017 Grant Thornton will partner with The American Lawyer to launch an annual Corporate General Counsel Survey. The survey will explore the major issues facing top legal officers. Some initial issues to explore may include: • Legal department management and structure Thought leadership ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 In today’s evolving business environment of market complexity, globalization and increasing investor expectations, managing risk while protecting value is more important than ever. Myriad rules and regulations across all industries are affecting compliance efforts, further elevating reporting quality and integrity discussions to the top of executive and board meetings. • Compliance — Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and Anti-Bribery/Anti- Corrupt (ABAC) programs • Buy vs. own: Build in- house or outsource? • Explaining to the board the legal dangers related to cyber risk • How to improve visibility into investigations that should be privileged • Understanding integrated risk management and how it works Cutting Through the Complexity of Private Equity Regulatory Compliance February 2017 Regulators, legislators and investors are demanding more transparency and consistency in reporting by private equity firms, especially as this relates to the allocation of fees and expenses. This article explores the significant drivers behind regulatory change and the increasing scrutiny at the fund and deal-making levels. It takes a look at: • New regulations affecting PE funds' compliance and reporting • Common issues and concerns related to compliance • Proactive steps middle- market PE firms can take to engage in the public policy debate Learn more about pending regulatory changes and steps you can take to mitigate risk.
- 4. Thought leadership Tax Reference Guide February 2017 The Tax Reference Guide is your go-to document for understanding how credits, exemptions, deductions, phase-outs, tax rate tables and other items in the code have changed. The guide contains tables with many of the most important 2017 tax figures for you and your business. Modernization of Asset Management Regulation March 2017 Gain valuable insights on how to address the regulatory changes affecting the asset management industry. CFO Survey February 2017 Our annual CFO Survey provides insight into how CFO-level executives are navigating their complex roles and prioritizing issues related to investments, risk, technology and strategy. Learn more about how CFOs are driving value for their organizations while meeting increased demands for their time and expertise. Increasing Regulatory Complexity February 2017 As more information technology (IT) companies are becoming global enterprises — sometimes virtually overnight — management teams may need to understand and address a host of new challenges resulting from geopolitical volatility and increasing regulatory and tax scrutiny. This article explores: • The drivers of technology industry transformation • New domestic and international regulations affecting IT, and the challenges of compliance • Proactive steps middle- market IT companies can take to engage in the public policy debate Learn more about pending regulatory changes and steps you can take to mitigate risk. Audit Committee Spotlight — Winter 2017 March 2017 The feature section of our periodic CorporateGovernor newsletter will cover current issues of interest to audit committees. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 ADVISORY NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION CorporateGovernor Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter covering issues related to compliance, corporate governance, board member roles and responsibilities, internal controls, risk, fraud detection and prevention, and more. Forensic Alert Newsletter Subscribe to our periodic newsletter providing relevant insights on timely topics to guide the decision-making process of in-house counsel when confronted with fraud and regulatory issues. TAX NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTIONS Human Capital Bulletin Newsletter Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter addressing recent legislative, regulatory and statutory compensation and benefits issues and other human capital matters. State and Local Thinking Newsletter Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter covering state and local tax developments. Tax Hot Topics Newsletter Subscribe to our biweekly e-newsletter addressing a wide range of tax regulatory, legal and legislative issues.
- 5. Webcasts ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Compensation Issues for Partnerships January 19, 2017 This webcast will address common compensation and benefits issues faced by partners and partnerships, including profit interests, self-employment taxes, recent management fee waiver guidance, worker benefits for partners and issues with treating partners as employees. Regulatory Update February 2, 2017 This webcast will discuss recent regulatory developments affecting the real estate, construction, hospitality and restaurant industries. We will explore: • Recent FASB pronouncements, including lease accounting and revenue recognition standards • Important changes to the R&D tax credit • New IRS partnership audit legislation Time for a Checkup: 501(r) Policies and Procedures January 17, 2017 All tax-exempt hospitals must comply with the IRC §501(r) regulations. While the regulations are not new, they have caused some health systems to pause and consider different protocols and knowledge-sharing workstreams that likely did not previously exist. Presenters will offer tips, tactics and tools so that you can perform a thorough compliance checkup. Significant State and Local Tax Developments for 2016 and Predictions for 2017 January 18, 2017 Continued efforts to reform state and local tax (SALT) regimes by state legislatures, courts, tax authorities and the Multistate Tax Commission are transforming the way businesses are reporting their income tax obligations to states. Evidence of those changes includes the shift to market-based sourcing, mandatory unitary combined reporting and other provisions. Businesses are also trying to come up with approaches to handle indirect tax complexity in light of legislation and litigation challenging the Quill physical presence rule. In addition, the recent federal and state elections’ effect on the SALT landscape will come into focus. Members of Grant Thornton’s SALT Washington National Tax Office will discuss significant developments from 2016 and trends expected in 2017.
- 6. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Webcasts International From Day One — Scaling and Operating a Global Technology Business February 8, 2017 Reaching international markets has never been so straightforward or low-cost. However, the political, legal and regulatory landscape facing the technology industry is becoming increasingly complex. Successfully navigating cross-border issues will be a key factor in the makeup and success of technology leaders. This webcast will explore: • Data and privacy concerns for local operations and international data flows • Considerations regarding optimal location choice • Tax and regulatory compliance — why good planning is required, and what it looks like • Rationalizing your maturing international operations to drive efficiency Learn more about evolving challenges and opportunities created by international expansion. New Frontiers in Company Culture and Employee Engagement March 9, 2017 Transforming an organization’s culture at strategic moments, whether during an integration or implementation of a new long- term strategy or to simply stay competitive, can challenge even the most progressive organizations. Grant Thornton will discuss its personal culture transformation experience, along with how others may envision their own journeys while maintaining appropriate employee engagement and sustaining performance. Tax Accounting Quarterly Update March 16, 2017 Join our webcast to learn about tax developments and significant tax issues that can affect your financial statements, including accounting for income and non-income taxes. We will focus on the financial reporting implications of these developments. This is a continuation of our series of quarterly webcasts sponsored by Grant Thornton’s Tax Accounting and Risk Advisory Services practice.
- 7. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Webcasts Managing Risk in the Technology Industry March 21, 2017 Rapid product innovation, expanding global operations, increasing regulatory oversight and compliance requirements, blurring of industry borders, heightened and differing privacy and security policies — all these issues raise the risk profiles of technology companies. Effectively identifying, prioritizing and monitoring these risks are primary concerns of both technology management and boards. This webcast will explore: • Enterprise risk issues and effective monitoring • International data privacy and security trends • Tax and regulatory compliance • Developing and testing effective controls • Compliance when operating in the U.S. government marketplace Cutting through the Complexity of Private Equity Regulatory Compliance March 23, 2017 The complexity and rate of change for compliance requirements for private equity (PE) entities have increased dramatically since the financial crisis. With a new Administration entering the White House, there is likely to be a renewed look at regulations surrounding fund reporting and controls. This webcast will look at: • The political, regulatory and legislative environment for PE • Key regulations having an impact on PE • Common issues and concerns that PE firms face as they comply with new laws, policies and directives • Proactive steps middle-market PE firms can take to engage in the public policy debate Learn more about how to avoid the tangle of PE regulatory reporting and compliance. Modernization of Asset Management Regulation March 29, 2017 Join Michael Patanella, Grant Thornton's Asset Management leader, and guest speakers who will discuss trends in the asset management industry and the impact of the new presidential administration on the regulatory environment.
- 8. Sponsorships and events Global Association of Risk Professionals' 18th Risk Management Conference March 7–8, 2017 New York City, NY The Global Association of Risk Professionals' convention brings together the world’s foremost risk management practitioners and regulators for discussion and debate on today’s most important risk issues. This two-day program includes keynote sessions offering expert opinions, discussion and debate on critical issues, in addition to smaller, more targeted, in-depth track sessions and breakfast briefings. American Bar Association National Institute on White Collar Crime March 8–10, 2017 Miami Beach, FL The Institute will include outstanding panelists who deal with some of the most significant legal issues of our time. It will provide valuable updates on new developments and strategies, as well as the opportunity to meet colleagues, renew acquaintances and exchange ideas. Attendees include leading federal and state judges and prosecutors, law enforcement officials, defense attorneys, corporate in- house counsel and members of the academic community. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Tax Executives Institute's Midyear Conference March 19–22, 2017 Washington, D.C. The Tax Executive Institute is a worldwide association of in-house tax professionals. Attendees of its midyear conference are business executives responsible for taxation matters on an administrative or policymaking level, or whose work is otherwise concerned with the challenges of business taxation. The Institute of Internal Auditors' General Audit Management Conference March 20–22, 2017 Orlando, FL The conference will provide an in-depth exploration of the latest issues facing today’s executives, in addition to the opportunity to network with peers. Attendees will: • Gain strategies and tools that can be shared with and used to train your audit team • Have access to industry leaders who will share insights and leading practices • Meet vendors by visiting the exhibit area to get answers and discover products that decrease enterprise expense and increase ROI Learn from the industry's best and brightest thought leaders as they share their perspectives on how to position internal audit leaders for the future.
- 9. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 TO RECEIVE ONGOING INSIGHTS: • Download ForwardThinking, our quarterly guide to help you address today's pressing business issues and tackle tomorrow's challenges • Subscribe to receive regular communications, newsletters and timely alerts • Register for live webcasts or view on-demand episodes
- 10. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 GROWTH Innovation Trends for Food and Beverage Manufacturers January 2017 Where does healthy meet sustainable? With growing consumer demand for transparency and convenience, innovation has become a state of doing business for food manufacturers. Based on a recent discussion with food company executives, investors and the dean of the Culinary Institute of America’s Food Business School, we will examine the trends entrepreneurs are championing and the areas of innovation established brands should consider embracing. Thought leadership Ninety percent of companies grow for one year, but only 8% can do it five years in a row. Why? Because sustained growth means new markets, new processes, new regulatory issues and new ways of operating, all of which may introduce risk and delay success. For dynamic organizations to fully achieve their objectives, financial measures and process efficiencies, new ways of working and stakeholder relationships must grow. Middle Market Indicator (Q4) January 2017 Based at the Ohio State University, the National Center for the Middle Market (NCMM) is focused on addressing and advocating for the needs of middle-market companies. The NCMM produces a quarterly survey — the Middle Market Indicator — to understand the sentiment and trajectory of middle- market businesses. This survey and subsequent report provide insights into growth rates and levels of optimism, and highlights noteworthy sectors and trends. Grant Thornton is a sponsor of the NCMM. Bridging the Cultural Divide: Quantitatively Assessing the ‘Softer Side’ of Integration January 2017 Studies have shown that more than 50% of acquisitions fail to achieve the desired outcomes because of cultural clash or misalignment, yet culture is often the area least focused on during due diligence and transition. The most common reason is the perceived difficulty of dealing with “soft stuff.” This article explores how you can objectively assess cultural alignment.
- 11. Webcasts State of Asset Management January 10, 2017 The need to demonstrate value is transforming the way in which asset managers operate. Join us for a webcast that outlines the changing landscape focusing on transparency and risk management. State of Banking January 13, 2017 Continued focus on regulation, rate pressures and the impact of new technology are all impacting the banking industry. Our webcast will outline the issues confronting members of the industry today with recommendations for the future. Navigating Headwinds for Success: Disruptive Forces Changing the Dynamics of Manufacturing January 25, 2017 Weak global demand. Advanced technologies. These are uncertain times in the manufacturing industry. Join Jeff French, Grant Thornton’s national Manufacturing leader, to explore the impact of the disruptive forces changing the dynamics of manufacturing. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Thought leadership State of Higher Education in 2017 February 2017 These are not quiet times for higher education institutions. Our sixth annual State of Higher Education report covers key industry developments and challenges facing higher education leadership. State of the Not-for-Profit Sector in 2017 March 2017 These are not quiet times for not-for-profit organizations. Our fourth annual State of the Not-for-Profit Sector report covers key industry developments and challenges facing not-for-profit leadership. Private Equity Investment Opportunities in Transportation March 2017 Without the transportation industry, the U.S. economy would come to a standstill, both literally and figuratively. Nearly every product we consume has moved along the supply chain via transportation, logistics and distribution companies. Industry research shows that the sector topped $1.45 trillion in 2014. Private equity investors and strategic buyers have taken notice. This article explores: • Transportation sector trends, including macro trends affecting investments • Key industry challenges • Strategies for acquisition Based on our firm’s report Driving Growth through Investment: Private Equity and Transportation, this article offers a glimpse into the transportation industry and its subsectors.
- 12. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Webcasts Thriving in the New Normal March 21, 2017 The energy industry continues to experience unprecedented challenges. We will explore the ways that many companies are learning to operate in the new normal, including the following: • Addressing budgetary constraints • Restructuring asset portfolios • Accessing and prioritizing capital • Developing operational efficiencies • M&A opportunities State of the Not-for-Profit and Higher Education Sectors March 22, 2017 These are anxious times for the not-for-profit and higher education sectors, and we do not expect a return to normal anytime soon. This webcast will explore the disruptive forces that are changing industry dynamics. Based on articles to be published in our 2017 State of Higher Education and State of the Not-for-Profit reports, our discussion will include creative ways of using social media to further engagement, operationalizing ERM, succession planning and leadership challenges in aging demographics, anticipating changes in ERP platforms, and plans for retaining millennials. State of Life Sciences: Strategy Resets to Patient Outcomes January 31, 2017 The focus in the pharmaceutical industry has shifted to patient outcomes. This shift is driving consolidation, new pricing models and different uses of technology to increase value. Join our webcast to learn more about the current environment in pharma and what companies are doing now to make the change. Exploring the Thoughts of Nonprofit Chief Financial Officers and Board Leaders February 16, 2017 The not-for-profit and higher education sectors face tremendous challenges and opportunities. This webcast will discuss topics that are top- of-mind with CFOs and board leaders of these industries. We will explore their thinking about not only day-to-day challenges — such as cost containment and compliance concerns — but also how to address strategic shifts in delivery methods and marketplace globalization. Our webcast will also address opportunities for partnering with outside organizations, use of data analytics in decision-making, and cybersecurity risks and mitigation. This webcast is presented exclusively for Grant Thornton clients.
- 13. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Association for Corporate Growth Leadership Week February 13–15, 2017 Washington, D.C. This program is being developed and sponsored by Grant Thornton in conjunction with the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) InterGrowth 2017 conference. No one knows ACG members and their interests better than ACG chapter leaders. ACG chapter leaders from across the country participate in this important meeting to gain new knowledge and skills to increase membership, strengthen programming and network with other chapter leaders and board members. Sponsorships and events While the agenda is driven by meeting participants, some topics include: • ACG chapter content, programming and operations • Membership: Retaining, increasing and expanding the corporate development member track • Best practices for staying in front of changing member needs Learn from some of the most experienced ACG chapter leaders, and share your perspective on what ACG Global and sponsoring organizations, such as Grant Thornton, can do to improve the value of ACG membership.
- 14. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 TO RECEIVE ONGOING INSIGHTS: • Download ForwardThinking, our quarterly guide to help you address today's pressing business issues and tackle tomorrow's challenges • Subscribe to receive regular communications, newsletters and timely alerts • Register for live webcasts or view on-demand episodes
- 15. OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE Succession Planning and Talent Management January 2017 A research publication from the National Center for the Middle Market, this report explores trends in succession planning and talent management among middle- market businesses. The paper will provide insights into how leading high-growth organizations are enhancing their talent pipeline to better prepare for the future. Thought leadership ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Organizations are constantly challenged to flourish and gain advantage in an increasingly complex and ever-changing environment. To maintain growth, organizations must remain flexible, agile and profitable, which often requires new operating models to support the evolving needs of the business. The key is to understand which business processes no longer make sense and which ones should remain, while ensuring activities are being performed more efficiently and effectively and with less risk. Innovate to Optimize the Financial Performance of Your Supply Chain February 2017 Your supply chain is critical to sound corporate financial performance. Optimize it with integrated planning, and your business wins. This report will explore the key attributes of optimization — and how to effect change — based on quantitative and qualitative feedback from manufacturing executives. Working Capital Trends and Best Practices February 2017 A research publication from the National Center for the Middle Market, this report examines how leading high-growth organizations are improving operating performance through improved working capital management.
- 16. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Thought leadership Top Key Performance Indicators for Supply Chain Optimization February 2017 Based on the results of our Innovate to Optimize the Financial Performance of Your Supply Chain report, this top 10 list will highlight the most valuable key performance indicators of your supply chain’s financial performance. Using Technology to Overcome Supply Chain Complexity March 2017 Ever get the feeling that you are making things harder than they need to be? Here are the top three things that make supply chains difficult to optimize, based on the results of our Innovate to Optimize the Financial Performance of Your Supply Chain report. Transforming Portfolio Value March 2017 While many companies are performing well and growing at a reasonable pace, winning in an era of fundamental change requires adopting new operating models to improve operational excellence and accelerate value creation. Some investors see this environment as an opportunity for competitive advantage. They are proactively improving processes and making the right decisions regarding their technology investments. This article will explore: • Functional areas, processes and technologies that drive optimum performance and can increase competitive advantage • The varying operating models for value transformation – and their pros and cons • Why the investment in innovation needs to be on the agendas of every CFO Learn more about game changers in transforming the value of portfolio assets.
- 17. New Frontiers in Company Culture and Employee Engagement March 9, 2017 Transforming an organization’s culture at strategic moments, whether during an integration or implementation of a new long-term strategy or to simply stay competitive, can challenge even the most progressive organizations. On this webcast, Grant Thornton will discuss its personal culture transformation experience, along with how others may envision their own journeys while maintaining appropriate employee engagement and sustaining performance. Innovate to Optimize the Financial Performance of Your Supply Chain March 22, 2017 Your supply chain is critical to sound corporate financial performance. Optimize it with integrated planning, and your business wins. This webcast will share key attributes of optimization based on feedback from manufacturing executives. Avoiding Culture Failure: Reaping the Benefits of a Positive Environment January 25, 2017 Establishing and maintaining a positive culture will link individuals — internally and externally — with your organization’s values and mission, create a healthy work environment and differentiate your organization. But how do you create that positive culture? And what are the most important aspects that will move your organization in the right direction and create a lasting impact? This webcast will explore the cultural elements of high- performing organizations. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 Webcasts
- 18. ForwardThinking | Q1 2017 TO RECEIVE ONGOING INSIGHTS: • Download ForwardThinking, our quarterly guide to help you address today's pressing business issues and tackle tomorrow's challenges • Subscribe to receive regular communications, newsletters and timely alerts • Register for live webcasts or view on-demand episodes
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