Birmingham Event: Business Confidence in the West Midlands

Over 50 professionals gathered in Birmingham to network and discuss "Business Confidence in the West Midlands." The event provided a platform for sharing insights on market trends, client feedback, and current impacts. Key topics included:

• Startup funding
• Business growth
• Skills development
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Hybrid working
• National Minimum Wage increases

Special thanks to Alexis Toft for sharing valuable information about the work of the West Midlands Combined Authority and Mayor Richard Parker. We also extend our gratitude to co-chairs Louise Rudd and Gemma Jones, and RICS for hosting the lunch.

Leicester Event: AI in Accountancy

In Leicester, local professionals came together to discuss “AI in Accountancy.” The key discussion points were:

• Are local businesses embracing AI technology or waiting for others to set the example?
• How safe is it to use AI software with company data, and what software is recommended by peers?
• How accountants are currently using AI to assist with day-to-day tasks
• The importance of having an AI policy or starting to think about one

A big thank you to our facilitators, Deviesh Raikundalia (ACA), Edward Franklin (ACA), and Emily Ball-Goldfinch (ACA) for sharing their expertise. We also appreciate all the attendees for making this event a success.

Stay tuned for more updates and future events from ICAEW Midlands!