News Analysis - SMEs want more than audit.
Analysts have revealed 91% of SMEs want to use their auditors for more than just audit, writes Gavin Hinks.
London Economics says the survey result is in contrast to the view taken by the US Securities and Exchange Commission which believes audit and consultancy should be separated.
Neil Lerner of KPMG, who is campaigning against SEC proposals to split audit from consultancy, said: ‘If accountancy firms are restricted from providing other services to large multinational clients, they will not find it economical to provide these services to smaller clients.’
The study showed 52% of smaller companies considered their accountant to be their main business advisor.