The Big Four

The Big Four

The Curious Past and Perilous Future of the Global Accounting Monopoly

by Ian D. Gow

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A fascinating and authoritative portrait of the 'Big 4' accounting Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, KPMG. Essential reading for anyone perplexed or fascinated by professional services, or working in the industry, or contemplating joining or engaging a professional services firm. The history of the 'Big 4' firms is one of triumphs and disasters, of pioneers and scoundrels. Today, the firms have an uncertain future - thanks to their push into China; their vulnerability to digital disruption and competition; and the hazards of providing traditional tax and audit services in a new era of transparency.

Discussion questions for The Big Four

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  1. 1

    How does Ian D. Gow’s depiction of the "Big Four" challenge or confirm your initial perceptions of the accounting and professional services industry?

  2. 2

    The book describes the history of these firms as a mix of triumphs and disasters, featuring both pioneers and scoundrels; which specific historical anecdote or figure stood out the most to you and why?

  3. 3

    Gow highlights the firms' aggressive push into the Chinese market as a major source of future uncertainty; how do you think geopolitical tensions and differing regulatory standards will impact the global footprint of these giants moving forward?

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