Beyond the grid: AI inventors target Excel’s formula
For 40 years, Excel has seen off every challenger. Now AI innovators think they may finally have the recipe that can break Microsoft's spreadsheet dominance.
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The controversial GST deal with the states is under review. There are better alternatives
The controversial GST deal with the states is under review. There are better alternatives
Treasurer Jim Chalmers last week announced the Productivity Commission will review the 2018 deal that gave states a guaranteed minimum share of...
The experiment that suggests AI accountants won’t replace you (yet)
The experiment that suggests AI accountants won’t replace you (yet)
Penrose Labs research suggests that when asked to balance a set of accounts, this generation of AI models slowly becomes less accurate over time....
IPA’s cash flow tax verdict: complex, risky
IPA’s cash flow tax verdict: complex, risky
At a glance The Productivity Commission proposed a new net cash flow tax to boost investment. But the IPA warns the tax is complex, risky, and...
Why AI loves experienced accountants
Why AI loves experienced accountants
At a glance AI is reducing jobs for young workers in exposed fields like accounting. Meanwhile, employment for older, experienced workers in...
Payday super is coming, ready or not
Payday super is coming, ready or not
At a glance The government is proceeding with its 1 July 2026 payday super start date. Employers must pay superannuation with each pay cycle,...
Stuck on a problem? Talking to a rubber duck might unlock the solution
Stuck on a problem? Talking to a rubber duck might unlock the solution
You’re neck-deep in IKEA assembly instructions. Furniture parts lie strewn across the floor. Your new purchase sits half-complete in front of...
Microsoft Excel is 40. Here’s how accountants helped make the world’s first killer app
Microsoft Excel is 40. Here’s how accountants helped make the world’s first killer app
At a glance Microsoft launched Excel in 1985 as an underdog trying to topple market leader Lotus 1-2-3. Excel's "intelligent recalc" feature gave...
Drop, defend, elevate, reinvent: A 4-step AI plan
Drop, defend, elevate, reinvent: A 4-step AI plan
At a glance Reports conflict on whether AI will cause job losses or worker shortages. AI replaces tasks, not jobs, transforming what accountants...
Cybersecurity: 12 basics that accounting firm managers should know
Cybersecurity: 12 basics that accounting firm managers should know
At a glance Many small businesses lack cyber policies, despite increasing and more sophisticated threats. Accounting firms are prime targets due...
How to tell if your client is lying
How to tell if your client is lying
At a glance Deception brings financial, reputational, and legal risks for accountants. Clients may lie for financial gain, fear of loss, or to...
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