Public Markets

Mercer Global Advisors, a leading registered investment advisory firm boasting $56 billion in assets, has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Gün Keresteci as Chief Financial Officer. Keresteci, formerly the global head of finance at McKinsey & Company, brings over a decade of diverse financial experience to Mercer, signaling the firm's commitment to bolstering its fiduciary financial advisory services...

Gibraltar Industries, a prominent manufacturer with a significant footprint in renewable energy and various markets, disclosed on February 21, 2024, that their Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Timothy F. Murphy, has opted for an early retirement in 2025. Murphy, who has been an integral part of Gibraltar for two decades, will continue in his current role until a successor is appointed to facilitate a seamless transition...

CEO optimism regarding the economic outlook has reached its highest point in two years, with more than one-third of top executives anticipating a positive shift in the next six months, according to a recent survey conducted by the Conference Board and Business Council. The survey revealed that CEO confidence rose as inflation abated, and the Federal Reserve signaled a forthcoming reduction in borrowing costs, the most significant in 23 years...

Despite positive signals of economic improvement, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) remains cautious in its outlook for the global economy in 2024. The recently released report, titled "2024 Global Economic Outlook: Slow Growth, High Uncertainty," sheds light on key factors contributing to the organization's reserved stance...

In an era marked by external disruptions, the role of Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) has evolved to encompass not only financial acumen but also a proactive approach to uncertainty. The past challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions highlight the need for CFOs to thrive during both good and bad times...

Qualcomm has announced a strategic shift in its leadership structure, appointing Akash Palkhiwala, the current CFO, to the dual position of Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective immediately. In this expanded role, Palkhiwala will not only continue overseeing financial matters but will also take charge of global go-to-market operations, including the IT department. The move comes amid a broader trend where finance chiefs are increasingly taking on dual roles, merging CFO and COO responsibilities...

Saori Casey, Apple's Vice President of Finance, is set to depart the tech giant to join Sonos as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Casey, who played a significant role in overseeing financial planning and investor relations at Apple, brings her extensive experience to Sonos, a leading smart speaker company...

As the role of CFOs continues to evolve, business travel remains a crucial element for connecting with stakeholders, building relationships, and collaborating with dispersed teams. In 2024, CFOs seeking to expand travel budgets should be attuned to shifting industry dynamics, according to a state of corporate travel report by expense travel and corporate card provider Navan...

The resurgence of interest in artificial intelligence (AI) within the business community is anticipated to catalyze a surge in merger and acquisition (M&A) activities in the coming year. Analysts tracking dealmaking trends suggest that after a slowdown that persisted through 2022 and into 2023, M&A may experience a turnaround. Factors contributing to this potential upswing include stabilized interest rates, moderated inflation, and a growing apprehension among companies about falling behind in the race to acquire new AI capabilities...

Brix Holdings, the parent company overseeing restaurant and foodservice chains such as Friendly’s, Red Mango Yogurt Cafe & Juice Bar, Orange Leaf, Smoothie Factory + Kitchen, SouperSalad, and Pizza Jukebox, has appointed Rick Brown as is newest Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Brown, with a background of 14 years at TGI Fridays and prior experience at Blockbuster, brings his financial expertise to manage the financial and accounting functions across all BRIX Holdings brands...