The recently held QuickBooks Accounting Leaders Forum at M Hotel Singapore welcomed professionals across the accounting and finance spectrum, united by a shared goal—to understand how artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and digital transformation are redefining their industry.
Hosted by Intuit QuickBooks, the forum provided a unique blend of thought leadership, practical insights, and peer networking that resonated with Singapore’s evolving accounting landscape.
From Manual to Meaningful: The AI-Driven Accounting Experience
The day began with an insightful keynote by Amanda Newton and Meagan Wood of Intuit QuickBooks.
Their live demonstration walked the audience through a reimagined accounting workflow, showing how QuickBooks’ AI-driven tools can streamline practice management, reduce repetitive tasks, and help accountants focus more on client advisory and strategic services.
The product showcase emphasized how features like workflow automation, customizable dashboards, and precision control can increase productivity while ensuring compliance; hallmarks of a modern, efficient firm.
Fireside Chat with ACCA: Charting the Future of the Profession
A key highlight of the event was a fireside chat featuring Daniel Leung, FCCA, Country Manager of ACCA Singapore, moderated by Jun Tay.
Leung addressed the changing expectations from clients, regulators, and employers, as well as the importance of upskilling in a digital-first environment.
His message was clear, accountants must evolve from record-keepers to strategic advisors who can interpret data and drive business insights.
Navigating Trends in Finance, Payroll, and Compliance
The panel discussion brought together influential leaders from the technology and finance ecosystem.
Rajesh Nair, CEO of HReasily, highlighted how HR and payroll automation can significantly reduce administrative load and improve compliance accuracy.
Ziyan Chong from Airwallex spoke about the power of seamless financial platforms in managing cross-border transactions for SMEs.
Raymond Wang of Fishbowl emphasized how real-time inventory management is becoming a critical pillar in financial oversight.
Moderated by Meagan Wood, the panel painted a compelling picture of how interconnected systems are empowering modern accounting practices to become more agile and insight-driven.
Why Forums Like These Matter for Accountants
With Singapore at the forefront of regulatory modernization and digital compliance mandates, forums like this provide critical context for firms adapting to these changes.
Accountants are not just expected to manage books, they’re now digital interpreters, compliance advisors, and growth partners to the businesses they serve.
For practitioners navigating client needs in a fast-changing environment, staying ahead means engaging with the tools and ideas that are shaping the future of work.
“It was a rare chance to see how innovation can tangibly improve our day-to-day operations,” said one attendee, a partner at a mid-sized accounting firm.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for a New Accounting Era
As digital transformation accelerates, the role of the accountant is undergoing a profound shift.
The QuickBooks Accounting Leaders Forum delivered timely insights, expert perspectives, and practical examples to help professionals embrace this change with confidence.
Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by thanyakij-12 via Freepik
