What CPA.com's CEO sees next for AI, tax, and the profession

In this episode, Erik Asgeirsson of CPA.com looks back and looks ahead — to the next weeks and months and also to the future of AI in the accounting profession.

Asgeirsson explains how AI's acceleration in tax, audit, and client advisory services builds on lessons learned during the cloud computing transformation. He outlines where firms are seeing the biggest opportunities, why tax is emerging as a key area for innovation, and how new AI capabilities are reshaping workflows and insights. 

The conversation also covers practical steps for firms to get started with AI, along with the risks to manage and the long-term shift toward higher-value advisory services.

Asgeirsson was one of the creators of AICPA Town Hall back in spring of 2020. He talked about Town Hall's guiding principles, which have shaped the show and resonate with its thousands of viewers today.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

• CPA.com's AI resource page.
• AICPA ENGAGE agenda.
• Digital CPA Conference in December.

What you'll learn from this episode:

• How lessons from the rise of cloud computing and client advisory services can guide firms' AI strategies.
• Why tax is emerging as a leading area for AI-driven transformation, from research to new preparation tools.
• What recent advances in AI models mean for CPAs, including stronger data analysis, automation, and integration into everyday tools.
• How small and midsize firms can get started with AI.
• Why embracing AI can lead to expansion for firms into higher-value advisory work, even as they manage risks such as d