With tens of thousands of CPA firms across the country, investors see consolidation opportunities to build national platforms, write Houlihan Lokey's Matthew Dodd, Patrick Hughes and Shivan Arora.

England’s North West, once a by-word for decline, is open for business. Filling significant gaps in the funding ecosystem offers great opportunities for innovative investment – and positive social outcomes, write Palatine's Gary Tipper and Beth Houghton.

Investors need to be nimble in balancing respect for the seller's legacy with the practicalities of operating a business, write Carl Bradshaw and Angus Simpson of law firm Goodwin.