Explore every episode of the podcast Digi-Tools In Accrual World

Indi and Ryan are back with the latest accounting tech news and fintech news, leading with their in-depth Xerocon reaction. 

Tickets to the Digital Disruptor Awards are now available: https://digitaldisruptorawards2025.eventbrite.co.uk

In this episdoe, sponsored by Tugger, Xero has unveiled its new AI "Financial Superagent," an evolution of JAX. But is it a game-changer or a disappointment? The hosts dive deep into the announcement, discussing the agent's capabilities for providing insights rather than processing transactions, the staggered global rollout which initially excludes the UK, and other key updates from Xerocon, including a new homepage, payment features, and payroll enhancements.

The app news doesn't stop there. The duo also covers Dext's impressive new AI-powered line item extraction and the latest innovations from QuickBooks, including a 'Pay by Bank' feature, enhanced CIS functionality, and a direct PayPal integration. 

We round off the news with Socket's new Zapier integration, unlocking more automation for your practice

00:00 Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World 03:05 Solving the Month-End Bottleneck - iplicit ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ App News 13:25 Xero Reveals "Financial Superagent" 15:38 Other Xerocon Announcements and more on JAX 2.0 23:56 Xero Payroll Updates 25:58 Dext Adds AI Line Item Extraction via Unleashed 29:59 QuickBooks Launches New AI-Powered Innovations 34:52 Socket Announces New Zapier Integration ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 36:28 Making it 'Stupid Easy' for clients to provide MTD info - Content Snare 47:18 Enjoyed the pod? Leave us a rating!

This episode's sponsors:

iplicit: https://www.iplicit.com Content Snare: https://contentsnare.com/ Tugger: https://tuggerapp.com

Stay ahead with the latest accounting tech news and fintech news on Digi-Tools in Accrual World.

This episode (sponsored by Scoro), we dive deep into two critical areas: AI-driven forecasting and cost-effective client reporting.

First, discover how to make budgeting smarter by removing human emotion and bias from your forecasts. We talk with Paul Sparkes about how iplicit's new AI tools are enhancing ERP systems to provide more accurate, data-driven financial projections.

Later in the show learn how to unlock better client reporting and simplify your Power BI sharing process with Craig Morrall from Tugger.

Plus, get caught up on the biggest headlines in the accounting tech space, including:

M&A Alert: Dutch payments giant Mollie in talks to acquire GoCardless.

Compliance Tech: How Firmcheck is preparing firms for new Companies House ID verification rules.

Feature Updates: Dext introduces live VAT number validation to fight fraud.

Industry Trends: Surprising research shows senior accountants are adopting AI faster than juniors.

ERP Evolution: Oracle launches a new AI connector for NetSuite to enhance data integration.

(00:00) Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World (03:47) Make Budgeting Smarter with AI Forecasting (14:59) App News Roundup (15:04) Mollie in Talks to Acquire GoCardless (17:15) Roveel Rolls Out Summer Platform Upgrades (19:01) Firmcheck Ready to Help Firms Meet New Companies House ID Rules (21:25) Dext Introduces Live VAT Checks (23:56) Accounting Seniors LEAD Juniors in AI Adoption (26:01) Clockwork.ai Partners with Thomson Reuters (29:45) Oracle Launches NetSuite AI Connector (33:22) Xero Urges Government for SME Digital Roadmap (36:59) Unlock Better Client Dashboards for Less (47:27) Leave a rating to help us grow the podcast!

This episode's sponsors

iplicit: https://www.iplicit.com Tugger: https://tuggerapp.com Scoro: https://www.scoro.com/

This week’s episode (sponsored by FreeAgent ) dives into the latest accounting tech news and fintech news, with sharp takes on major acquisitions and the future of user experience.

We cover:

The big fintech news as Starling acquire Ember — and what it means when a challenger bank strategically pulls the rug out from its high street competitors.

Xero's controversial decision to email your clients directly — and the debate on who should own the client relationship.

Xero's long-awaited navigation redesign and Syft-powered analytics — and whether this finally brings the user experience up to modern standards.

The launch of QuickBooks agentic AI experiences — and how they're leveraging the entire Intuit ecosystem to go beyond simple bookkeeping.

Plus: A deep dive into UI/UX with iplicit's CPO Paul Sparks, exploring why modern design and a mobile-first approach are just as critical as the AI hype.

We also hear from Tugger's Craig Morrall on why your P&L is only half the story, and how to get true business insight by combining financial and operational data.

00:00 Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World!

04:43 User Experience Matters: Modernising Accounting Platforms - with Paul Sparks from iplicit 05:07 Mobile App Development and User Experience 07:08 Platform Usage Analysis by Role 08:32 UI/UX Modernisation Plans 09:54 AI Assistant Integration

14:31 App News 15:18 Starling Bank Acquires Tax Software Ember 20:10 Xero will contact your clients on updates 23:57 Xero Analytics Gets an Upgrade with Syft 27:17 Xero is introducing a redesigned navigation 30:34 QuickBooks is launching new agentic AI experiences 35:00 Sage has announced the launch of Workforce Intelligence 39:05 Sage expands capabilities for Intacct 44:10 FreeAgent Adds Excel Export for Management Reports

44:40 Data-Driven Decisions: Combining Financial and Operational Reporting:  with Tugger 45:28 Combining Financial and Operational Data 48:04 Data Ownership and Reporting Structure 50:03 Business Drivers for Integrated Reporting..

53:27 Legacy Systems Integration 55:53 Closing Remarks

This week’s episode (sponsored by Employment Hero) dives into the latest accounting tech news, with sharp takes and practical insights from the team. We cover:

• Chaser’s new automated late fees and early payment discounts — and why it’s about more than just chasing debt

• Vinyl’s $2m raise to tackle meeting admin with AI — and whether its specialisation is enough to break through into the overcrowded AI notetaker market

• FreeAgent’s CIS update for contractors — and why it’s a smart move for a MTD-era market

• Xero’s long-overdue inventory upgrades and what it means for product-based businesses

• Dext’s long-awaited prepayments

• Plus: Tugger’s Power BI integration powered by LLMs, helping firms unlock data insights without a data analyst

We also touch on emerging trends in outsourcing, AI-powered forecasting, and much more!

00:00 Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World Podcast

02:49 What is pod sourcing? || Advancetrack

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

04:56 Market traction and adoption of pod sourcing

06:08 How pod sourcing aligns with AI adoption

08:23 Should firms focus on specialisation over breadth?

10:41 App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

10:56 Xero upgrades inventory tools

13:54 FreeAgent adds CIS contractor support

15:07 Vinyl raises $2m for meeting automation

19:30 Dext adds prepayments

23:44 Jenesys email cost centre coding

24:40 Briefcase one-click line items

28:22 Chaser launches automated late fees

32:39 Float adds VAT cashflow predictions

35:11 Next-Level Data Insights || Tugger

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

35:48 How AI and LLMs are enhancing data analysis capabilities

40:20 How AI will improve Power BI accessibility and reporting

42:25 Join us at the Digital Disruptor Awards!

In this episode of Digi‑Tools in Accrual World (sponsored by Xledger) we dive into the latest accounting tech news, covering everything from MTD developments to Sage’s newest moves, plus updates on tooling that matters to modern practices.

We speak with Ian Gregory, CTO of Advancetrack, about the future of outsourcing in accounting, how AI reshapes compliance, and the critical role Advancetrack plays in supporting firms through systemic change. Advancetrack 

Later, Craig Morrall joins us to introduce Tugger, a cheekily named, no‑code solution for businesses that securely aggregates data from systems like Xero, HubSpot, Harvest—and delivers it straight into Power BI or Tableau. Tugger 

This episode is perfect for:

• Accounting firms navigating Making Tax Digital (MTD) and digital transformation

• Practice managers and technology leads monitoring Sage, BrightPay, Xero, and Webexpenses updates

• Firms seeking smarter outsourced workflows and reporting solutions

• SaaS partners, vendor teams, and tech consultants who support accountants on their advisory journey

0:00 Intro | 5.33 1:43 AI, Outsourcing & the Future of Accounting – Advancetrack

App News 11:23 Xero Small Business Index – June Decline 13:53 Avalara introduces AI tax-query bot 17:12 Sage acquires Fyle for expense automation 20:06 Sage explores automating the financial close 26:45 BrightPay adds new payroll tools 30:50 Xero App Store – July releases 34:05 Xero UK now supports SMS invoicing 35:48 Webexpenses launches digital payment cards 38:11 Introducing Tugger – smarter reporting 48:50 Subscribe to our newsletter

In this week’s episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World, we cover the latest accounting tech news, fintech news, and explore whether the profession is heading towards factory accounting in the age of AI. From HMRC policy shifts to new automation tools, we unpack the changes shaping compliance, advisory, and the future talent pipeline in accountancy.

Timestamps:

00:00 Coming Up… 01:31 Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World!

App News 04:14 HMRC scraps MTD for Corporation Tax 05:39 HMRC sets sights on ‘digital-first’ tax system 10:33 Mayday releases automation for prepayments and deferred revenue 13:30 QuickBooks launches ‘Launchpad’ for product updates 15:34 New QBO accounting agent deepdive 18:50 Alexion.AI launches to empower accountants with automation tools 22:58 Acting Office launches ACCAbot to automate bookkeeping 28:02 36-month SaaS contracts spark debate over pricing traps

33:37 AI Accounting Factories: Myth or reality? | Advancetrack interview 43:45 Thanks for joining us!

We dive deep into the tools, policies, and strategies that could redefine your firm’s future. Is AI the key to efficiency, or will over-automation strip away the personal value accountants bring?

Listen now for insights on:  • HMRC’s shifting Making Tax Digital strategy  • Fintech product launches that could change your workflow  • The reality behind “factory accounting” and what it means for your career or practice

Join us for the Digital Disruptor Awards in Manchester in September:

Nomination your heroes for an award: https://forms.gle/vEpPrSitc8k32FzM8 Join the waitlist for tickets https://forms.gle/Vjoff74RN1Njaubw6

In this week’s Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast, we dive into the biggest stories in accounting tech news and talk cybersecurity with Dr Ian Gregory from Advancetrack. From AI-driven hacks to practical steps for protecting your data, this episode is packed with insights every accountant and finance professional needs to hear.

00:00 Coming Up 00:56 Welcome to the Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast App News 09:53 Socket x Adfin integration enters beta testing 13:44 Fathom launches Sage 50 Accounts integration and dashboard saved views 15:33 Joiin integrates with Pennylane for faster multi-entity consolidation 18:39 Ignition and Karbon release unified billing and workflow integration 22:27 Landlord Studio partners with Habito to support UK landlords and MTD compliance 24:17 Clio to acquire vLex in a US $1 billion deal 25:57 Campfire raises £28 m illion to expand advisory AI platform 27:39 QuickBooks rolls out new Square Connector for sales and payout sync

30:31 Cybersecurity: Where is your firm's weakest link? || With Dr Ian Gregory - Advancetrack 39:14 Thanks for joining us - please rate the pod!

Join us for the Digital Disruptor Awards in Manchester in September:

Nomination your heroes for an award: https://forms.gle/vEpPrSitc8k32FzM8 Join the waitlist for tickets https://forms.gle/Vjoff74RN1Njaubw6

Join us as we flash back to the 2024 Digital Disruptor Awards with guests Aaron Patrick, Zoe Whitman, and Jo Wood, discussing whether vendors have become too good at selling their products.

We discuss 'magpie syndrome,' the importance of focus and effective tech adoption, and the crucial role of vendor support and training. Tune in for honest conversations and insights on how to best navigate the evolving landscape of accounting technology - and a small sample of what's in store for the 2025 awards evening. Join the shortlist to attend:  https://forms.gle/bLoM8yrQFCLagEnf6

Submit your award nominations: https://forms.gle/izNaQddthqJv9Viy8

00:00 Coming Up 01:17 Welcome to the Digi-Tools in Accrual World Podcast!

02:40 Live Podcast: Have Vendors Got Too Good at Selling? 03:20 Accountants and Magpie Syndrome 05:29 The Need for Focus and Consolidation 06:24 The Importance of Training and Support 16:17 Should Accountants Help Clients Implement Tech? 21:40 Outsourcing and Delegation

26:35 Wrap Up - Leave a like!

In this episode of ‘Digi-Tools in Accrual World’ - sponsored by Advancetrack Outsourcing - hosts Indi and Ryan bring you the latest news from the accounting tech space, with a big slant on fintech news this week, with Dext’s step into the fintech world with their Airwallex partnership, a major KYC misstep from Monzo, and Adfin shake a leg with DD payouts.

Along with the regular news, including ‘practical-AI’ news along with more updates from your favourite accounting tech tools.

00:00 Coming Up… 00:37 Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World

05:56 Accounting Tech App News

06:01 Dext enters the payments space 09:38 Companies House rules softened for smaller firms 10:52 Monzo fined for fake Downing Street accounts 15:12 UK firms struggling to turn AI hype into impact  19:27 Build AI-powered booking with Replit & Xero 23:36 Expend adds automated mileage tracking 25:55 Adfin promises faster payouts – settlement speeds improved 28:27 WorkflowMax reflects on a year of change

33:37 Rate the pod!

THE accounting tech news round-up!

Still at full strength again this week’s episode - Sponsored by FreeAgent - the Digital Disruptors crew (Ryan, Indi & John) cover a packed episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World – and there’s no shortage of opinion.

Headlines this week: - The Big Four slash graduate intake – has AI killed the accounting career ladder? - RSM US pledges $1 billion to agentic AI – bold move or headline fodder? - Karbon’s latest roadmap: task automation, upgraded portals, and smarter inboxes - FYI and BGL link up for automated cosec workflows - Joiin launches an Excel add-in and AI insights for finance teams - Socket drops a slick new leads module – CRMs beware - Visma eyes up a London IPO (yes, London – not New York) - Digits rolls out AI agents that are 8,500x faster than your average bookkeeper (literally)

Expect rants. Expect heat. Expect the kind of fintech and accounting tech commentary you don’t get anywhere else.

Whether you’re watching the big AI plays, checking in on SaaS product updates, or just here for the banter – it’s all in this week’s pod.

00:00 Coming up on this episode:? 00:47 Welcome to the Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast

Accounting Tech App news 06:23 Big four slash graduate jobs for AI 12:15 Karbon product roadmap 14:22 Visma picks London to IPO 17:01 Socket Leads module released in beta 19:03 FYI BGL integration 21:03 New Joiin features 23:09 RSM US to invest $1b in agentic AI 27:09 Digits adds AI agents

30:37 Liked the pod? Let us know!

We’ve got the band back together! After a run of solo gigs, Ryan, John and Indi reunite for a full-cast episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World – and just in time.

This week - sponsored by iplicit - we’re riffing on Xero’s $2.5 billion acquisition of Melio, their biggest US push to date. But is this bold play a strategic masterstroke or just another vanity signing? Spoiler: The markets aren't convinced.

From dashboard redesigns to Syft-powered analytics and Xero’s growing interest in verticals like healthcare, we break down everything you need to know about their evolving roadmap – and where it might be heading next.

Also in this episode:  • iplicit partners with Cin7 to streamline stock-heavy businesses  • Sage releases a mammoth list of (mostly incremental) updates  • QuickBooks tries to catch up with new budgeting features and AI migration tools  • And we ask: when is it time for your clients to graduate to a PSA?

Whether you’re following the latest Xero acquisition news, watching how fintech is reshaping accounting tech, or just here for the banter – this one’s worth tuning in for.

This is your backstage pass to the best in fintech news and accounting tech commentary.

We cover: • Xero acquires Melio for $2.5bn – what it means and why the market’s lukewarm • Why Xero’s Syft integration matters for analytics (and what UK users can expect) • Fresh UI, smarter dashboards: Xero’s facelift – a genuine revamp or just lip gloss? • iplicit and Cin7 join forces to supercharge wholesale and distribution • Sage’s latest product push: nice ideas, bland delivery • QuickBooks updates its balance sheet budgeting and plays catch-up on automation • Scoro’s take on when clients need to upgrade their systems and grow up

Timestamps:

00:00 Coming Up 01:21 Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World Podcast!

05:38 App News 05:42 Xero to acquire Melio in $2.5 billion deal 11:17 Xero targets healthcare with new systems push 13:26 Xero Analytics gets smarter with Syft integration 15:59 Xero dashboard gets fresh redesign for better user experience 20:02 Xero highlights June apps on its App Store for new integrations 22:37 iplicit and Cin7 strike partnership to boost wholesale distribution automation 25:49 Sage Accounting introduces quick-approval quotes, GoCardless payments, budgeting tools and invoice improvements 29:28 QuickBooks Online rolls out updates to balance sheet reporting and budgeting

40:41 Scoro: How to know if your client needs a PSA 53:29 Thanks for tuning in – please leave a rating and subscribe to future shows!

#Xero #XeroAcquisition #XeroAcquireMelio #AccountingTechNews #FintechNews #DigiToolsinAccrualWorld #AppNews

This week on Digi-Tools in Accrual World - sponsored by FYI - we’re diving deep into the latest fintech news, with a close-up on the tools and platforms redefining the tech stack for accountants. From HMRC compliance and accounting tech consolidation to next-gen workflows and AI-powered innovation, we unpack how firms are adapting - and what’s coming next.

Whether you’re watching accounting tech news unfold or actively planning your firm’s next move, this episode has plenty to get your teeth into.

We cover:

• CCH iFirm’s new MTD for Income Tax solution - and why John Toon’s surprisingly impressed • Access launches “Evolve” - an ERP-style suite bundling Fathom, Lightyear and more • Employment Hero’s free payroll software for micro-businesses • Dext drops GPS mileage tracking, auto-descriptions and bulk approval tools • Mimo adds planned payment dates for smarter forecasting • Active Workpapers integrates with CloudCapcha to bring timesheet automation into its workpapers suite • Sleek raises $23m to expand its hybrid tech-accounting platform • HMRC loses £47m to fraudulent PAYE claims • UK government departments owe £1.65m in unpaid invoices - some dating back 18 years

Plus – we’re joined by Harv from Scoro, digging into the shift from accountant to FinOps advisor, and how PSA platforms like Scoro are helping firms evolve their client service, pricing models and digital strategy.

If you’re trying to keep pace with accounting tech innovation and want to stay ahead of changes in digital transformation - this one’s worth a listen.

00:00 Coming Up 01:02 Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World Podcast

04:39 App News 04:58 CCH iFirm launches MTD for Income Tax solution 08:06 Access launches ‘Evolve’ to tackle mid-market system sprawl 11:35 Employment Hero offers free payroll 14:37 Dext adds GPS mileage tracking and auto-descriptions 18:21 Mimo introduces Planned Payment Dates for better forecasting 19:17 Active Workpapers integrates with Cloudcapcha for timesheet automation 22:28 Sleek raises $23m to expand digital accounting and compliance tools 24:42 HMRC loses £47m to fraudulent tax repayments 27:02 Government hits £17m in unpaid supplier invoices

30:31 Scoro: Becoming a FinOps Advisor 41:07 Enjoyed the pod? Drop us a like or a review to let us know :)

#DigiToolsinAccrualWorld #AppNews #accountingtechnews #fintechnews #techstackforaccountants #accountingtechconsolidation #accountingtechinnovation

AI for Accountants Is Getting Real – Are You Ready?

This week on Digi-Tools in Accrual World, we’re looking at what might be the most significant tech shift the accounting profession has ever faced. AI agents are no longer just theory.

Sage, QuickBooks, Karbon and others are now rolling out tools that automate accounting and bookkeeping workflows - with everything from categorisation and reconciliation to forecasting and client emails.

If you're trying to stay up to date with digital transformation in accounting, or want to learn about using AI in finance - this episode is for you!

We cover:  • The beginning of the end for month-end  • AI agents that clean your books, chase debtors and forecast cashflow  • Sage Copilot and X3 updates  • Thomson Reuters launching AI tax review tools  • Karbon’s integrated tax workflows and pricing intelligence  • UK influencers facing FCA action over financial misinfo  • The Accounting Excellence Awards 2025 shortlist  • Scoro on why PSA tools matter more than ever for growing firms

0:00 Coming Up 01:17 Welcome to the Digi-Tools in Accrual World Podcast 04:46 App News:  

05:01 AI is bringing about the end of month-end 09:38 Sage unveils AI-powered task automation with agents 12:24 Intuit reveals AI agents coming to QuickBooks 18:08 Sage previews Copilot capabilities for X3 platform 19:34 Thomson Reuters launches Agentic AI for tax and accounting 21:16 Karbon launches end-to-end tax workflows, AI tools, and practice intelligence 27:22 UK influencers arrested in multi-million pound tax fraud case 29:10 Accounting Excellence Awards 2025 finalists announced

32:22 Scoro: The Role of PSA in Modernising Operations and Finance   43:56 Thanks for listening - remember to rate and subscribe to the podcast!

In this week’s Digi-Tools in Accrual World - sponsored by Xledger, we ask the big question: What has AI actually done for us? 

...Well so far anyway.

How are accountants and bookkeepers actually using these tools to make their work and lives better?

From smarter tax tools to automated audit prep, the answer might surprise you.

Tune in for real-world examples of AI adoption in UK accountancy, plus the latest accountant news:  • How accounting firms are using AI (email triage, Excel coding, audit docs, tax memos)  • Countingup’s SmartTax AI trained on £10bn of data  • IRIS buys Instead – US-based AI tax prep platform  • Ravical raises €7.3m to challenge Silverfin with AI-native tooling  • Caseware acquires LeaseJava to boost lease accounting automation  • Airwallex lands £300m Series F for global expansion  • Builder.ai collapses after revelations it’s not really AI…

We also introduce Scoro’s PSA platform (think.. operating system for your business)  and what it offers scaling firms trying to ditch disconnected spreadsheets.

If you’re an accountant wondering how to approach AI adoption or curious what AI for accountants actually looks like, this one’s for you.

00:00 Coming Up… 01:03 Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast

App news 05:32 Real-life examples of AI in accountancy 14:07 Airwallex raises £300m to build global banking future 16:43 Caseware acquires LeaseJava to boost lease accounting 19:41 IRIS invests in AI-powered tax management platform Instead 23:15 Puzzle and Joiin team up for multi-entity consolidation 24:52 Ravical tipped to challenge Silverfin in practice tech 28:22 Ravical secures €7.3m to develop AI-native firm tooling 35:23 Countingup unveils Smart Tax AI assistant

37:36 Introducing Scoro

49:22 Outro

#AIAdoption #AIAccountants #AccountantNews #AccountingTech #FintechNews #SmartTax #PracticeManagement #Scoro #Airwallex #IRIS #Caseware #BuilderAI #Ravical #DigiTools #AccrualWorld

In this episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World, we break down the biggest stories in accounting tech and fintech news. Sage posts a 16% profit increase, with 97% of revenue now recurring—what does this mean for cloud-based adoption in the UK? Meanwhile, Xero reports an impressive 23% revenue growth in FY25 and launches ‘Pay by Bank’ to streamline payments for SMEs.

We also cover:  • Cloud adoption stats: 81% of UK firms now using cloud accounting  • The FRC shake-up for digital filing under the Economic Crime & Transparency Act  • New Xero App Store additions including Karbon  • Zoho Books earns ICB accreditation  • Adsum expands with Self Assessment data integration

📈 If you’re watching for insights on Sage FY25 results, Xero FY25 results, cloud accounting adoption, or UK fintech trends, this is one to watch.

👉 Subscribe for weekly updates on the latest in UK accounting and SaaS.

00:00 Coming Up 01:29 Hello and Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World

App News: 05:27 Sage reports FY25 profit jump amid global uncertainty 08:34 Xero FY25 delivers 23% revenue growth 12:07 Xero launches ‘Pay by Bank’ to expand payment options 17:12 New apps arrive in the Xero App Store – May roundup 18:23 Zoho Books earns ICB accreditation 21:39 OpenTax adds Self Assessment tracking 23:27 Major shake-up planned for digital accounts filing 26:20 Cloud accounting adoption in the UK – latest insights

33:27 Outro - Rate and Subscribe!

#AccountingTechNews #FintechNews #SageFY25 #XeroFY25 #CloudAccounting #UKAccounting #DigitalTransformation #XeroPayByBank #MTD #Karbon #ZohoBooks #Accountex #HMRC

This week on Digi-Tools in Accrual World, we’re unpacking the biggest headlines in accounting tech news — from game-changing AI features to major payments milestones and strategic acquisitions shaking up the UK accounting software space.

🔍 Top stories:

• Sage Intacct launches powerful AI-driven period close tools for mid-market firms

• QuickBooks rolls out MTD ITSA tools powered by automation — are they the new frontrunner?

• TrueLayer processes £10bn in one month — open banking is now mainstream

• iplicit + GoCardless = in-app Direct Debit and smoother mid-market workflows

• Brieff expands its AI notetaker to in-person meetings

• Briefcase now extracts data from Word and Excel files — not just PDFs

• Allica Bank nearly doubles profit, hits £3bn lending milestone

• IRIS Elements now FRS 102 compliant

• Rippling vs Deel legal drama heats up amid a $450M raise

• FreeAgent, Capium, and Bright continue pushing forward with niche tools

Whether you’re advising SMEs, scaling an accountancy firm, or just keen to stay ahead in fintech and software, this episode brings everything together — with commentary, context, and a bit of clarity.

Chapters:

00:00 Coming Up

02:00 Intro & Man Flu Drama

03:18 App News ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

04:50 Brieff launches in-person AI notetaker

08:15 QuickBooks unveils AI-driven MTD tools

12:45 Sage Intacct adds AI-powered close tools

17:30 TrueLayer hits £10bn in monthly payments

21:00 Briefcase adds Word & Excel support

23:45 Allica Bank financial results

27:50 iplicit expands GoCardless integration

30:50 IRIS Elements now FRS 102 compliant

33:00 Wrap-up & what’s next

No break for us at Digi-Tools in Accrual World, we we’re back straight after Accountex to cover the biggest developments in accounting tech news and fintech innovation fresh off the back of Accountex 2025.

Headlines:

•TaxCalc acquires Engager in a bold play to power up its practice management suite.

•Bright snaps up TimeKeeper to bolster its payroll game — targeting summer 2025 for full integration.

•Capium 365 launches to support MTD ITSA, offering a simplified, client-facing bookkeeping tool.

•FreeAgent drops multiple updates, including Find & Fix, Management Reporting, and AI-powered invoice capture via Jenesys.

•Dwayne Jackson returns with a free CIS compliance app — smart move or Trojan horse? Or both?

•QuickBooks introduces usage caps across plans — time to check your limits.

•Rippling raises $450m, but the Deel lawsuit adds drama to their $16.8B valuation.

•Xero launches Tap-to-Pay via Stripe — now your phone is your card reader.

We also recap our own Accountex circus antics, explore community feedback on our upcoming Digital Transformation Certification, and tease what’s next for accountants looking to modernise.

Perfect for accountants, CFOs, and tech-curious bookkeepers looking to stay ahead of the curve.

00:00 Coming Up

01:05 Intro

09:27 App News

09:31 TaxCalc acquires Engager to boost practice management offering

14:10 Bright acquires TimeKeeper to enhance payroll offering

15:50 Capium launches Capium 365 to tackle MTD complexity

18:28 FreeAgent and Powdr partner on financial modelling for startups

18:57 FreeAgent integrates with Jenesys for AI-powered insights

19:16 FreeAgent unveils new features and AI partnership at Accountex 2025

21:04 KashFlow founder launches CIS compliance app

25:07 QuickBooks introduces usage limits across plans

26:39 Rippling raises $450m at $16.8bn valuation

29:34 Xero launches Tap to Pay for UK businesses   

32:23 Close

In this episode of the Digi-Tools in Accrual World Podcast, we jump back int the latest accounting tech news. trends and updates, including Xero and QuickBooks integrations, revenue and profit growth statistics, and the impact of automation and AI. 

Join us as we explore new research from Credence Research, the market valuation of the small business accounting software market, and the latest updates from leading providers like Canopy and WorkflowMax. Additionally, we have an insightful interview with Monica Odysseos from Grant Thornton Cyprus, who shares her journey in AI and its transformative effects on the accounting field. 

Don't miss out on the essential tech news and expert advice to stay ahead in the industry!

00:00 Coming Up 00:55 Welcome!

03:38 App news 03:43 Small business accounting software market forecast to 2032  08:35 Xero releases 2025 accounting industry report 15:55 HMRC seeks new CRM to replace Salesforce    20:00 MTD proving more expensive for businesses than expected 23:07 Canopy raises $70m to scale AI-powered accounting platform  26:21 Xero and BGL announce Workpapers integration partnership 29:08 QuickBooks enhances sole trader features for accountants 31:57 WorkflowMax delivers March 2025 product updates

34:37 AI in Accounting: Regulation, Implementation and Ethics - Monica Odysseos

In this episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World, we discuss the rapid advancements in AI and their impact on the accounting profession, looking at an insightful report by LinkedIn predicting that 70% of workforce skills will be replaced by AI within five years, and touch on the significant replacement of the bookkeeping workforce. 

Updates and innovations from FreeAgent, XLedger, and Dext are highlighted, alongside an engaging interview with Dom Gibbs from S&W and Laura from Xledger, covering strategic outsourcing and technology's role in transforming finance functions. 

PLUS previews of what we’re up to at Accountex this year!

Accountaxe: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/accountaxe-2025-london-tickets-1235998257059 How to effectively partner with vendors: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/digital-transformation-training-tickets-1338884693159

00:00 Coming Up 01:04 Intro 02:25 Accountex Previews 

05:46 App News 05:51 The Accountant 2 07:46 Agentic AI edges closer to mainstream accounting adoption 16:25 FreeAgent expands integrations with Stripe and more 18:32 Dext launches Vault for AI-powered document storage 21:24 Dext rolls out supplier statement matching features 24:04 BILL expands into procurement and cashflow management 26:30 BILL powers Xero’s US online bill payments 28:41 Xero highlights April’s newest app integrations

31:15 Process Outsourcing at scale 48:28 Outro

In this episode, we unpack the latest in accounting tech news and fintech developments for UK firms and beyond.

We kick off with OpenTax’s new feature for tracking corporation tax deadlines — a smart move for firms managing multiple client obligations. Then it’s over to Wolters Kluwer’s long-awaited cloud tools rollout, where existing customers face dual-platform fees and usage-based pricing as they migrate.

Mid-market ERP is booming. We speak with Xledger and Moore Insight about the tier-two ERP explosion and what makes this segment increasingly attractive for growing businesses and charities. 

Plus, there’s a full preview of AccountAxe 2025 — now hosted at Fairgame London with support from Karbon, FreeAgent, Employment Hero, Advancetrack,  iPlicit, Xledger and Scoro

Book your tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/accountaxe-2025-london-tickets-1235998257059

Also in the mix: • Airwallex is pursuing banking licences in the UK and US — signalling a major shake-up for cross-border payments, lending, and SME banking. • Xero’s online bill payments go global, now supporting 25+ currencies through Crezco. • Intuit acquires HR platform GoCo, deepening QuickBooks’ suite for SMBs with payroll and human capital management. • Caseware launches Validate, its new financial check automation tool.

We wrap up with ERP consultancy insights and why scalable, cloud-based systems are making Tier 1 look bloated. A must-listen for anyone tracking the future of accounting tech.

00:00 Coming Up 00:35 Intro

05:16 App News 05:20 OpenTax launches first stage of Corporation Tax tracking 07:38 Airwallex to pursue UK and US banking licences 12:52 UK online bill payments from Xero go global 15:01 Wolters Kluwer rolls out cloud tax and accounts production tools 18:44 Caseware launches Validate to automate financial checks 20:11 Intuit to acquire HR platform GoCo

23:30 Moving on up from Tier 3: Xledger

Digi-Tools in Accrual World - The place for accounting tech news!

In this episode of the Digi-Tools in Accrual World Podcast by Digital Disruptors, we discuss the nuanced landscape of CEO salaries, with a special focus on gender biases and the contrast between different markets. 

We take a closer look at MHA's IPO, exploring their growth strategies and valuation concerns. Regulatory issues are also a key topic, with Revolut facing a significant fine for anti-money laundering violations. 

Additionally, we delve into the evolving role of technology, sector specialisation in accountancy, and the impact of AI on the profession. 

Our episode is sponsored by Advancetrack, and we’re excited to share insights on how MTD public beta testing, voluntary ID checks for directors by Companies House, and news from XLedger are shaping the future of accounting.

0:00 Coming Up 1:10 Intro

03:05 App News ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 03:10 MTD public beta goes live, Excel (not) dead, One Login security woes 05:51 Companies House rolls out identity verification 10:35 Xero’s $25m CEO pay package under scrutiny 16:07 MHA confirms float date and £269m valuation 22:51 UK tech start-up vows to ‘do to Sage what Netflix did to Blockbuster’ 26:22 Revolut fined €3.5M over money laundering failings

30:02 Showcase your sector expertise with the right finance tech: Xledger

37:17 Don't forget to leave a like or rating!

Join our newsletter: https://digitoolsinaccrualworld.substack.com

Welcome to the Digi-Tools in Accrual World Podcast - your place for accounting tech news!

This episode is sponsored by FYI, the new practice management challenger, John and Ryan bravely soldier on without Indi to keep them in line.

They dive deep into Xero's new API-like MCPs, discuss the eye-watering $2.2 billion valuation of Penny Lane, and share updates from a huge week of product releases - from FreeAgent, Intuit TaxCalc Joiin, Workflow Max and Countingup.

00:00 Intro

02:49 App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

02:52 Xero adds MCP server for smarter integrations

08:34 Pennylane doubles valuation to $2.2bn

11:27  FreeAgent rolls out CIS features for contractors

13:49   Intuit adds project tools to enterprise suite

16:39 TaxCalc bridges the MTD spreadsheet gap

25:32 Xero and Sumday partner on free carbon accounting tools

28:20  Countingup introduces new product features

30:55 WorkflowMax shares latest product updates

33:39 Joiin unveils new features in ‘Joiin Unwrapped’

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

37:11 From Outsourced Finance Provider to Partner: Winning Against the In-House Trend: Xledger

47:29 Outro

In this episode, we chat about Indie’s hollibobs, the exciting space venture by FreeAgent, and mind-blowing AI tools in the accounting world - sponsored by Employment Hero.

Plus, we'll dive into some juicy app news on Xero and discuss the intriguing launch of Vinyl’s private beta and iplicit’s client manager.

Hold on tight as we geek out over Jack 3.0’s cool features and crack up at the idea of being AI's guinea pigs. Don’t miss our convo with FreeAgent’s Tony Stevenson on their latest integrations!

00:00 Intro

02:37 App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

02:41 FreeAgent takes MTD to new heights—literally

05:26 Vinyl launches private beta and lands Google backing

08:22 iplicit unveils BPO-focused client manager tool

10:50 Jenesys introduces AI tools to boost trust and transparency

15:19 Adsum announces OpenTax partner programme.

18:13 MTD for ITSA threshold to drop to £20K in 2028

21:54 Xero highlights new apps in March App Store roundup

24:04 Xero unifies global app partner awards into one programme

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

26:00 The FreeAgent Universe is Expanding

This episode of the Digitals and Accrual World Podcast is a rollercoaster ride through the latest, juiciest app news. From Rippling's 50-page lawsuit against Deel alleging corporate espionage (yes, we said SPY!) to groundbreaking updates from Xero, Access Group, Bright Pay, and FreeAgent, there's enough drama to rival a Hollywood thriller.

Plus, discover how MTD can now be done from SPACE and why accountants everywhere should be keeping a close eye on Apron's new expense card.

Join Ryan, Indi and John for a wild journey through the ever-accelerating world of accounting technology.

00:00 Coming Up

00:48 Intro

02:46 App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

02:51 🟡 Rippling / Deel legal handbags

07:39 🟡 What's new in Xero

08:32 🟡 Xero + Syft enhancements (vs Fathom)

11:14 🟡 JAX expands

12:24 🟡 Access buy Geo

14:21 🟡 BrightPay to discontinue desktop

15:41 🟡 AIQ launches new workflow approvals

17:04 🟡 Apron launches expense card

24:36 FreeAgent's Journey from 'Contractor Tool' to 'Full Practice Solution' to... space?

36:58 Outro

Join us for this special DAS episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World - with the inside scoop from Dan Cockerton on the sale of the show, latest integrations from FreeAgent and the very latest in AI and App Accounting News.

A perfect companion for your train / plane / drive to Battersea!

00:00 Coming Up

01:02 Welcome back!

App News

04:17   📍 Digits debuts AI accounting tool

07:50   📍 iplicit Gocardless partnership

09:06   📍 Mimo raise $8.5m

11:18   📍 Oaknorth to be parent of CUB

14:16   📍 Services as software

17:40   📍 Tugger releases partner program

18:26   📍 Transplants not deemed exempt

20:36 FreeAgent: Integrations Progress

25:09 Dan Cockerton: DAS and beyond

36:29 See you at DAS!

Making Tax Digital is back on everyone’s radar as we chat to Tony from FreeAgent and hear some of the highlights from John’s chats at FAB, with Tom Herbert, Jenesys, FYI.

Love it or loathe it - MTD is coming.

Outside of the fascinating world of MTD, we have the usual updates in App News, including Indi’s analysis on embedded finance.

00:00 Coming Up…

01:00  Intro

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

04:01 Adfin lands $8m

07:36  Allica launches buy to let mortgages

12:21 Allica rebrand

13:58 Gocardless partners with Pipe

18:12 FreeAgent integrate with Mimo

18:56  Translucent launches prepayments and deferred revenue

22:04 CAS360 launches in the UK

23:29 iplicit (once again) fastest growing firm

26:04  Expensify opens travel management tool

30:25 MTD - Not Going Away (FreeAgent)

40:08 Absolutely FABulous

01:00:59 Like and subscribe!

In this episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World is all about control. Controls for accelerating - not slowing - a scaling business, DOGE clampdowns, visits to Westminster and making the bold choice to identify as a person with hair.

Ever thought implementing controls would slow your biz down? 

Think again!

00:00 Coming Up 01:28 Welcome to Digi-Tools in Accrual World!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ App News 09:33  2025 Intuit QuickBooks Small Business Index Annual Report 16:33 Jenesys launch Jackpod 19:09  Xero launches Xero Simple 22:55  Xero launches Reconcile period 24:32 Xero offers commission for referrals 26:35 Xero  February apps of the month 28:28  Dext SSO 30:06 US DOGE fires free tax-filing team in US ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

30:59 Boring but Sexy: Controls and Procedures  - Stuart Hurst 45:10 Rate the pod!

As the end of Q1 is in sight, we start to question what can be achieved once the baseline goal of increasing efficiency is solved?

Indi shares her view on the one-person, AI-powered Unicorn and Alex Kesselman talks about how ApprovalMax has evolved from it’s core ‘approvals’ fortress in response to customers developing needs.

As ever, we have all the updates form our space, including: AI-powered 24/7 support by FYI Docs, NetSuite’s massive platform migration, and Caseware’s shiny new acquisitions and AI assistants. Get ready to be amazed by Blake Oliver’s killer use case for AI in pricing decisions and catch an insightful chat.

00:00 Coming up…

00:50 Welcome!

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

03:37 IRIS confirms Taxfiler sunset

04:03 Netsuite migrates to Oracle Autonomous for AI

05:29 FYI launches 24/7 support

08:43 CaseWare acquires Extractly.ai

11:38 How to validate your pricing with AI

15:22 Evolving Product for Evolving Needs - ApprovalMax

22:58 Science Fiction becoming closer to reality?

26:49 Like and subscribe

Welcome to another exciting episode of Digitals in Accrual World!

This week, we're dissecting the latest tech updates in the accounting world.

FreeAgent introduces property ownership splitting for the MTD rollout, GoCardless partners with Form3 to enhance BACS payment connectivity, Link My Books joins the Visma family, and Ignition debuts auto-pricing tools to streamline revenue operations. We also delve into Modulr's integration with Nomi for seamless payroll payments and Ecologi's acquisition of Net Zero Now to help businesses achieve net-zero emissions.

Plus, an insightful interview with Matt Lowry from ApprovalMax on combatting fraud in the age of AI. Stay tech-savvy and fraud-free, folks!

00:00 Coming Up 00:50 Intro ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ App News 03:05 FreeAgent Update: Line by line property split  03:53 GoCardless to provide BACs payments 04:58 Linkmybooks joins Visma 07:34 Ignition introduces autopricing 09:44 Modulr Nomi integration 11:19  Ecologi acquires Net Zero Now ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 16:36 Combatting Fraud - ApprovalMax 23:44 Like and Subscribe

Get ready to dive back into the world of tech in accounting with the Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast! In this episode, the team tackles everything from e-invoicing and how it's revolutionising the industry (or not), to the Sage Copilot data blunder that even got America's attention.

We've got updates from Xero, memorable moments from mid-market maestro Laura Jolly from Xledger, and a serious discussion on pushing the limits with tech and risk-taking in the accounting world. Tune in for the insights, stay for the laughs, and leave with some actionable takeaways to rock your accounting game!

00:00 Coming Up…

01:17 Intro

~~~~~~~~~~

App News

02:49 The UK government launches a consultation on E-invoicing

08:57 Sage Updates

13:02 Sage Copilot Data Breach

15:06 Updates From Xero

18:47 Xero's most popular apps of 2024

20:59  Xero API increase ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

22:55 Streamlining Bank Automation with Xledger

30:05 Accounting Skills Gap - Finance Takes The Piste Part 3

49:44 Outro

In this episode of Digi Tools in Accrual World we discuss the evolving skills required in today's AI-driven environment, focusing on the importance of retaining human advisory roles amidst technological disruption.

We hear from more of the though leaders at the Finance Takes the Piste event - including though from Alastair Barlow, Krissy Chapleo, Gavin Spencer, Sam Jennings and Antoaneta Pop.

We also have key updates and leadership changes in App News from leading accounting tech firms like Ignition, WorkflowMax, and Dext, and take a deeper look into the innovations in ESG reporting by Xledger.

00:00 Coming Up...

01:09 Welcome!

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

05:02 Ignition appoint new CEO & CFO

08:15 Workflow Max Releases

11:03 Aslan gets $5m seed investment

14:31 Companies House agent filing system launches

18:34 Intuit launches QBO & Mailchimp interface

21:32 Dext integrates with Zoho

22:29 Brieff launches AI notetaker

26:39 ESG Reporting - Xledger

34:16 John's Hazy Ski Trip Memories

35:13 Finance Takes the Piste - Pt 2 - The skills the profession needs next

43:26 Rate and subscribe!

Welcome back, digital disruptors! In this explosive episode of the Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast, we take AI models head-to-head to see which one might best for accountants in practice

• ChatGPT
• Deepseek
• Claude
• Perplexity

We’ve also got the latest App News and exclusive inside gossip and insights from the recent Finance Takes the Piste ski trip!

00:00 Coming Up

02:27 Hello!

05:18 Finance Takes The Piste Recap

06:47 Agent AI

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~

08:35 AI Models for Accounting Firms

12:44 Sage CoPilot Misfire

14:21 Vertice Raise $50m

17:24 AI Line Item Extraction From Briefcase

19:00 iplicit secure £25m

21:05 Xero App Store Updates

23:44 Hedgeflows secures expanded FCA approval

25:42 Accurise on Delivering Outsourced Finance for Mid-Tier Businesses

Piste Artists

~~~~~~~~~~~

33:36 Paul Barnes - The right EBIDTA… for your practice

34:43 Fraser Campbell - The right EBIDTA… for PE

36:24 Paul Barnes - Timesheets, yes or no?

37:28 Pete Everett - Skills of the 'firm of tomorrow'

41:57 Graeme Tennick - Finding the skills we already have

44:40 Jonathan Gaunt - Rockstars vs Superstars

47:24 Like and Subscribe!

In this episode of the Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast we cover the recent shocking acquisition of Bench and what it means for AI in bookkeeping, Ryan Pearcy's gets his Jackanory on with the rest of App News

Plus, hear about Capitalise's game-changing collaboration with Plaid, the new automation marvel 'With Otto,' and Pete Hucker from Xledger gives us insights into the difference between accounting in Norway and the UK.

And Indi’s health tips are back - but is it enough to save Ryan’s fragile frame?

00:00 Coming Up

01:49 Intro

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

App News

03:36  Bench Pressed Out of Business

10:14 FYI Launch  new integration with companies house

10:57 Thomoson  Reuters Acquire SafeSend

13:51  Number Ninja Launches  'With Otto'

16:01 Capitalise integrates with Plaid

19:06 OpenTax Adds Notifications

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

19:58 XLedger: UK vs Norway

25:49 Ryan's Aging Vessel

28:39 Like and rate the pod!

We dive into App News with multiple stories coming from the Government - but will their involvement help or hinder business and tech?

Still missing our third wheel, John Toon, Ryan and Indi bring you a shorter, but perfectly formed update from the world of accounting tech.

00:00 Coming Up

01:43 Intro

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

04:23 UK AI Growth Plans

08:39 Gov't announce 'new' MTD Sage deal

10:09 Xero Award Win

11:16 Silverfin Docusign Integration

12:57 Caseware Appoint new CEO

15:50 AccountsIQ acquire ExpenseIn

17:50 Rate and subscribe!

Easing back into the year, Ryan and Indi tackle the usual latest App News, the shift towards multi-entity and intercompany accounting, the latest in accounting AI with Truewind’s $13M Series A funding, and how businesses can now bid goodbye to AvaTax on Shopify Plus.

Also, find out about the cool new tools from Translucent, Active Workpapers, and Bright's shiny new accounts production tool.

00:00 Coming Up

01:44 Intro

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

06:17 Truewind Raise $13million

09:29 Translucent

11:14 Active Workpapers

15:45 Shopify Binning AvaTax

16:49 Bright Accounts Production

20:20 WorkflowMax ❤️ Airwallex

22:36 Leave us a review

Welcome back to Digi-Tools in Accrual World for 2025!

While John is away globetrotting, Indi and Ryan look over the latest accounting tech news which broke over the turn of the year.

From new App Store releases to old pricing problems - this is the perfect way to kick off your accounting tech awareness for 2025.

00:00 Coming up….

01:48 Intro

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

03:58 Allica Milestone

06:56 Intuit and Amazon Partnership

09:19 QuickBooks Online Advanced New Features

10:53 QBO Tags on the way out

12:29 Adsum VAT refunds inside QBO

14:35 6 updates from Sage

15:56 Xero Pricing Backpedal

17:31 Xero Marketplace New Releases

20:38 Rate the pod!

Welcome to the future, tech enthusiasts! Start 2025 on the right foot with our mystic meg themed episode, as John and Ryan reveal their predictions for 2025.

Wondering if Access will keep us guessing with their acquisitions, or if Sage open their war chest again?

Curious about the AI renaissance, open banking's comeback, and the dawn of Cloud 3.0?

Plus, who else thinks a new finance ledger player (Hammer with a Z, anyone?) will drop this year? And the boldest call of all: could Xero go private?!

Tune in for laughs, crazy forecasts, and the inevitable man flu outbreak. Don't miss the first Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast of 2025!

00:00 Coming Up

01:19 Intro

2025 Predictions

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

03:33 Acquisition Sprees

05:12 New OCR hitting its stride

08:15 Open Banking v2

10:51 AI Agents

15:19 Cloud 3.0

17:56 Digital Transformation Agencies

20:03 Wildcard predictions

24:12 Join us in 2025!

AI Assistants, Acquisitions & Christmas Chaos: 2024 in Review!

Merry Christmas to all who celebrate! 

Welcome to the Christmas Day special of the Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast!

In this festive retrospective episode, our tech-focused trio dives into the biggest highlights of 2024, from AI advancements and major acquisitions to payroll innovations and practice management updates.

We also discuss the rise of AI (mostly meeting tools), touch on outsourcing trends with special guest Vipul from AdvanceTrack, and even launch the most coveted Digital Disruptor Awards. Plus, there's banter, branded Christmas hats, and John being a Scrooge.

Drop us a note if you're tuning in on Christmas Day, and let's dive into the tech world wrapped up in festive fun! 🎅🎄

00:00 Coming Up

01:24 Intro

2024 App News Retrospective

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

05:45 Oompa, Loompa, doompa-dee-do, I've got an AI Assistant for You

08:41 Hyper-Growth Players

10:31 Acquisition News

13:24 Xero's Ups and Downs

15:54 Intuit's 2024

18:09 Dext to IRIS

21:01 Payables, Payables, Payables

24:56 FreeAgent Making a Big Steps

26:21 Quiet Year for Practice Management?

28:36 The Big One

30:39 Podsourcing - AdvanceTrack

39:28 Give us your feedback so we can be even better in 2025!

In this week’s episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World, we jump headfirst into the latest accounting technology and app news, covering everything from rumours of Visma's potential IPO to Odoo’s skyrocketing valuation. 

Grace Hardy joins us to share her bold journey as a 21-year-old accounting entrepreneur making waves on TikTok and beyond, tackling sexism, and disrupting industry norms. 

We also discuss FreeAgent’s latest report - with concerning stats around discrimination - and talk with Vipul Sheth from AdvanceTrack about burnout in senior practitioners.

This episode really is a tour of the dark side of of accounting…

00:00 Coming Up... 01:54 Intro

App News ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 07:15 HG Eyeing Visma IPO? 08:57 Odoo Raise 10:48 ReceiptBot Adds Line Item Extraction 12:28 Billhop enables card payments for pay non-card suppliers 14:54 Translucent Releases 17:36 Metro Bank 21:27 FreeAgent Accounting Talent Research

33:05 AdvanceTrack - Challenges Attracting Grads into the Profession & Pressure on Practice Leaders  39:09 Grace Hardy - Accounting for TikTok

58:17 Rate and Subscribe!

Welcome back to another exciting episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World! This week, we share into the hottest news in the fintech world, from the big Dext-Iris acquisition bombshell to fresh releases from Sage, Datamolino, and Fathom. And guess what?

We've got Joe Lines from Nook spilling the beans on Nook’s acquisition of Modulr.

Plus, we tackle the juicy topic of AI's impact on accounting and why 50% of firms are still twiddling their thumbs. Joined by our regular hosts Indi Tatla, John Toon and Ryan Pearcy (recovering from 'man flu,' of course), this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and a hint of tech-induced panic. Don't miss it!

00:00 Coming Up

02:14 Intro

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

07:47 Iris acquires Dext

13:17 Sage Results

17:28 Sage Releases and Updates

18:25 Datamolino Release

18:51 Fathom Bulk Update Facility

20:28 New Apps in the Xero App Store

22:48 AdvanceTrack - AI's role amid the talent shortage

30:07 Joe Lines - The next chapter for Nook (and the payments space)

46:43 Rate and subscribe!

Welcome to today's 'Digi-Tools in Accrual World' episode and this week we’re looking at the real impacts of AI on practice and the labour market.

In App News we look at Xero extending classic invoicing, Agicap's €45 million funding, and the fall in demand for freelance jobs due to AI.

Ruben from Briefcase shares exciting insights on making accounting great again!

Get the lowdown on talent shortages, TaxCalc's big investment, skyrocketing salaries, impressive partnerships, and a hint on future AI recruitment. Hit play, stay ahead!

AdvanceTrack's accounting Talent Index: https://www.advancetrack.com/talent/ Find out more about Briefcase at: Briefcase.so

00:00 Coming Up...

02:16 Intro

App News

05:23  Xero Classic Invoicing

11:16 Agicap Raise €45m

17:14 TaxCalc Receive Investment

21:35 Studies show AI's impact on labour markets

23:51 Roveel x Joiin

26:09 Moss x Airwallex

29:39 46% of firms struggling with client deliverables - AdvanceTrack

35:43 AI in Practice - Reuben Steenkamp

55:17 Leave a Review!

Join us in today's episode of 'Digi-Tools in Accrual World' as we dive into the latest buzz in the accounting tech industry!

From Nook's acquisition by Modulr and FreeAgent's updated smart capture functionality to TrueLayer's big layoffs – we've got all the juicy details.

Lucy Cohen spills the beans on Mazuma's bold acquisition plans and the challenges both boomers and Gen Z are facing around exiting and entering practice ownership.

We're also featuring an insightful chat with Sophie Hossack from Alloca Bank with more on  mixing digital banking (at scale) with a human touch. And also - despite the controversy around Jag’s rebrand - is there a lesson there for accountants and bookkeepers?

00:00 Coming Up

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

03:17 Nook Acquired

07:17 Modulr Powering HMRC

08:35 FreeAgent Smart Capture Expanding

09:33 FreeAgent still officially friendly

10:42 ApprovalMax Raise £10m

11:38 Dext Payments Teaser and more

13:26 Truelayer lays off 25% of it's team

15:41 Allica - Relationships and Scale

23:57 What can accountants learn from the Jag rebrand?

30:36 Lucy Cohen - The generational shift in practice ownership

In this episode of 'Digi-Tools in Accrual World,' we dive into the latest news and trends while embracing the chaos! From monstrous acquisitions by Thomson Reuters, Simpro, Bright, and Access Group to the nostalgic nod to Excel's 40th birthday, this episode is packed with industry insights.

Don't miss our deep dive into the rise of Finfluencers and the FCA's crackdown, as well as tips on strengthening those accountant-bank relationships from special guest Sophie Hossak from Allica Bank.

00:00 Coming Up

01:26 Intro

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

02:42 Thompson Reuters acquire LLM company

04:44 Simpro Acquire Big Change

06:20 Bright Acquire Inform Direct

10:50 Access Group Acquire HireAra

12:23 Nexly Launch for Auditors

20:05 And in other news... Happy Birthday Excel

20:45 Allica Bank - Building Bridges between Accountants and Banks

31:27 Wuvvable Dogs

34:47 Florentina Sandu - Good Judges and Bad Influencers

39:40 Outro

In this episode of the Digi-Tools in Accrual World podcast, brought to you by The Digital Disruptors and sponsored by XLedger, we dive headfirst into the cutthroat world of business advisory - who has the edge, accountants or business coaches?

The word on the street is banks may have lost their mojo with accountants, prompting a wild 47% to feel as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs when it comes to business banking.

We have app updates galore from MIMO, Pleo, ApprovalMax, and Xero, and the lowdown on the Xero Beautiful Business Fund 2024 winners who are redefining awesomeness in business.

Plus, discover why multi-banking is the new black for SMEs and a whole lot more!

Don't forget to like, share, follow, and send us your thoughts! ✉️

00:00 Coming Up…

01:32 Welcome!

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

09:19 MTD Thresholds Dropping

16:10 Xero Beautiful Business Fund 2024

19:20 Mimo Release

24:09 AML HQ Launches in the UK

26:31 Pleo Releases

27:40 Approval Max Pricing Updates

28:49 New in the Xero App Store

32:52 Allica - The growing chasm between accountants and bank relationship managers

42:53 Drew Moyes - Friendliness, Community and Simplicity for MTD

50:51 Outro

The £9 Billion Missing for UK SMEs - PLUS App News, Dan Cockerton and Johann Goree

Join John, Ryan, and Indi as they review John’s creepy merch ideas, find out how SMEs are missing out on billions and share the latest app news, including updates from Adsum, Modulr, FreeAgent, and Firmcheck. Hear about Tide's strategic acquisition, Acumatica's new release, and more.

Plus, find out why Engager.app's Johann Goree is celebrating their big win at the Digital Disruptor Awards and what it takes to overcome major life hurdles to deliver an industry defining event.

And don't miss the banter, from bath time chat to ginger walrus facts, this episode has it all!

There's more info on the savings interest SMEs are missing out on and the Allica Bank report here: https://www.savingssqueeze.com/

00:00 Coming Up

02:04 Welcome

App News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

09:25 Adsum Upcoming Beta Test

11:31 Modulr Batch Management Release

12:33 FreeAgent Binning Paper Notices

13:36 MTD Updates

20:18 Acumatica

21:45 Tide Acquiring Again

27:04 Allica - £9bn in missing interest

42:31 Overcoming huge obstacles, to do what's never been done before - Dan Cockerton

46:39 Where are the next tech innovations coming from? Release of the Year winner Johann Goree

01:03:00 Rate the podcast!

Join us for another laugh-filled yet insightful episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World from the Digital Disruptors!

We cover the latest in accounting tech, featuring Caseware's AiDA digital assistant, Summa Tech's snazzy onboarding upgrades, and Dext's new approval functions. Plus, hear from the unstoppable Eriona Bajrakurtaj at her Volt launch, promising to make digital transformation easier for many accounting and bookkeeping firms.

With quirky anecdotes, LEGO likenesses, and some 'instant banter', this episode is a rollercoaster of tech talk and humour. Don't miss out!

00:00 Coming up…

02:41 Welcome!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

App News

09:05 Caseware Digital Assistant 

11:47 Summa Tech Onboarding Enhancements

16:36 Dext Senior Hire

18:50 Dext Approvals

21:09 The Payroll Site closing its doors

24:43 Sage Research Insights

27:53 IRIS Practice in a Box

36:22 Banter Stimulant

38:46 Eriona Bajrakurtaj - Digitally Transforming a Profession

43:25 Leave a review!

In this episode, we’re joined by Kayleigh Graham from Telleroo, who’s here to drop some serious knowledge bombs on scaling payments services, avoiding app disasters, and how not to detail your digital transformation.

Kayleigh also gives her take on the 'influencer' debate which has continued since the Digital Disruptor Awards in September.

We also bring you the latest app news — from Series A raises to HRMC and the EU making splashes in the fintech scene.

00:00 Coming Up...

03:01 Hello!

App News

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08:01 EU Action on AI Regulation

11:49 Adfin Eyes Payments Pain

15:55 NetSuite’s SuiteProjects Pro Offers AI Insights

17:42 Digital Transformation at HMRC

19:41 Ex-Revolut Team Raise Funds for New AI Startup

22:23 Sage Adds Refunds + Partial Payments to Sage Accounting and more...

23:52 CCH Unveils iFirm Validate Tool

27:50 Kayleigh Graham - Payments, DEI & Influencers

Welcome to another thrilling episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World —the podcast where accounting meets tech trends, professional updates, and occasionally funny banter.

In this episode, we’re blending personal milestones, with global business expansions, Intuit's shiny new enterprise suite, and the lowdown on fresh Xero apps like Cone Practice Management and Viable. We also talk funding—$28 million for Numeric to be exact—and sprinkle in some awards, like the Deity Award for Richard Sergeant (yes, a literal deity… sort of).

We’re diving into AI, talking to industry rockstars like Matt Lewns from iplicit, and tackling everything from dashboards to... fashion critiques.

All this while trying to be funny, insightful, and definitely a bit ridiculous…

00:00 Coming Up… 02:00 Hello!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ App News 05:24 Intuit Enterprise 07:39 New to the Xero Marketplace 09:04 - Xero + Klarna 12:48 - Xero Dashboard Update 15:25 - Active Workpapers Updates 16:37 - Client Window Update 17:30 - Numeric Raise

31:41 AE Awards – Best Dressed

35:35 Digital Deity – Richard Sergeant 44:14 Digital Marketer of the Year – Jordan Vickery

59:39 Like and subscribe!

We’ve got the juiciest app news with the iconic Xero snapping up Syft Analytics, Starling Bank's shocking customer checks, and Apron serving up security enhancements like it's going out of style.

We talk with Heather Smith dishing about travel, ACCA elections and the rise of accounting influencers.

From modern ERP insights with Matt at iPlicit to John spilling the beans (or honey) on his anti-inflammatory concoction, we've got it all. Don't miss this whirlwind episode; it's got more flavour than Manuka honey and more buzz than a bee in a bonnet. Tune in, geek out, and learn how not to get shafted in the world of accounting tech!

00:00 Coming up...

02:32 Welcome!

App News

07:05 Xero Snaps up Syft

13:01 Classic Xero Invoice Clash

14:57 FCA Flying after Starling

19:10 Apron Security, feature updates and more cash!

22:45 Access Shopping Spree Continues

25:53 FreeAgent still full steam ahead on integrations

28:09 iplicit - Connectivity in modern ERP systems

34:39 John's Alternative Remedy

41:59 Shape the Future of the Profession - Heather Smith

01:03:44 Rate the pod!

Welcome to another episode of Digi-Tools in Accrual World! This episode is jam-packed with award-winning geniuses, boundary-pushing fintech updates, and some seriously controversial banter.

Apron is now FCA authorised, Employment Hero has revamped its packages, and Karbon’s new marketplace is shaking things up!

Join John, Ryan, and the crew as they reveal the latest news, chat with the winners of the Digital Disruptor awards, and manage to keep keep Ryan’s accents under wraps.

00:00 Coming up…

01:24 Intro

App News

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04:03 Apron Banking License + Security Upgrades

08:41 Employment Hero Pricing Bundles

09:59 Roveel Reporting Enhancement

12:09 Modulr Partnerships Paying Off

13:37 Karbon 'Practice' Marketplace

16:20 - Check yo’ privilege

Digital Disruptor Award Winners

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18:41  Jon Gaunt

23:35 Aaron Patrick

29:27 Outro