Drawing on Simon's 17 years building Highview's advisory practice and Tas' experience designing AI tools for Backable and The Analyst, the conversation cuts through the hype to look at what is actually changing on the ground, and where the real opportunity sits for firms of every size.
What we cover
- Why compliance is not dead, and why advisory is now client-demanded, not just partner-pitched.
- The closing gap between the cost of great strategic advice and what clients will pay for it.
- How AI lets small and suburban practices deliver big-firm analysis and visual, decision-ready insight.
- Enabling junior staff to deliver strategic advice, not just partners and qualified accountants.
- The hard truth on accuracy: why financial analysis still scores poorly on AI benchmarks, and why human review and data security stay non-negotiable.
- Organic growth versus the acquisition and roll-up playbook in a changing landscape.
- The Analyst up close: three-way forecasting, scenario analysis, valuations, and what is on the roadmap, including weekly cash-flow forecasting.
- Audience Q&A: how The Analyst compares to other tools, tax planning, and forecasting upcoming obligations like super, BAS, and ATO commitments.
"AI won't replace accountants. But accountants using AI will replace those who don't."
Launching July 2026
The Analyst launches in July 2026, built for accountants, advisors, consultants, private equity firms, and valuers. We are currently running a pilot programme with limited spots, giving firms an early look at the platform working on real client businesses.
There is more coming. A two-day, in-person advisory event is in the works for later this year. Get on the list to be the first to hear.