Navigating business uncertainty
With Interest
It’s a volatile world, and businesses are under pressure. In this episode of With Interest, Gavan Ord, Business Investment and International lead at CPA Australia, explores how businesses are navigating an increasingly unstable global environment marked by geopolitical conflict, cost pressures and economic shocks. The conversation draws on insights from CPA Australia’s Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey to unpack how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are coping, and what separates those that merely survive from...
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Payday super checklist
With Interest
Payday super is one of the most significant payroll changes in years, and businesses need to act now to be ready. This episode is like a checklist, breaking down what the shift to real-time super payments means in practice, how compliance will work and what employers should be doing before the July deadline. Key learnings: What payday super actually requires beyond more frequent payments How the seven-day contribution rule will affect payroll processes Why cash flow planning is critical under the new system ...
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New AML reforms and what they mean for accountants
With Interest
(This encore presentation episode was originally published on Dec 9, 2025) When anti-money laundering (AML) comes to mind, most accountants assume it only applies to large transactions – but that’s now changing. This episode explains . Specifically, how the reforms to AML and counter terrorism financing (CTF) in 2026 will affect many accounting practices. You’ll gain a clear understanding of what the changes will mean, including which services fall under the...
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ASIC on the future of auditing
With Interest
In 2026, auditors are working in an environment defined by AI technologies, heightened scrutiny, regulatory oversight and ethics demands. Which is why it’s vital that professionals in audit understand this evolving landscape. Additionally, how the regulator ASIC views key issues and what it is focusing on in 2026. ASIC commissioner Kate O’Rourke is this episode’s special guest and she discusses the evolution of audit and financial oversight at a pivotal time. This...
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INTHEBLACK: Do you want to be happier at work? New research shows how
With Interest
We all want to be happy at work. Or at least happier, don’t we? Across this conversation, listeners will learn about a foundational concept: Success often follows happiness rather than causes it. Drawing on research in positive psychology, the episode outlines how mindset, habits and self-awareness account for a large share of overall wellbeing, far outweighing external circumstances. It also explains how small, consistent practices such as learning to be grateful can recalibrate the brain’s natural bias...
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INTHEBLACK: Responsible AI explained - What it means and why it matters
With Interest
AI is advancing fast – but is it responsible? In this must-listen episode, global AI expert Dr Rumman Chowdhury shares what you need to know about building AI systems that are fair, transparent and future-ready. Key insights and questions include: Is it too late to create a responsible AI environment? What defines responsible AI? Managing AI bias and ethical risk The rise of sovereign AI Workforce disruption: preparing for AI-driven change Is AI...
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INTHEBLACK: Cultural intelligence in global finance
With Interest
In an interconnected world, one trait is fast becoming a must-have skill for finance and accounting professionals. It’s cultural intelligence. This episode explores how understanding cultural differences and adapting your approach can elevate trust, strengthen collaboration and deliver better business outcomes. With expert-led insights, learn how cultural conditioning shapes trust and what strategies can help you lead with authenticity while respecting cultural norms. Learn clear, actionable ways to embed cultural agility...
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INTHEBLACK: Private credit - Risks and rewards explained
With Interest
Private credit is booming. But do investors fully understand the risks? In this episode, learn the mechanics of private credit, its place within the private capital universe and why it's suddenly everywhere - from retail portfolios to billion-dollar super funds. Key takeaways include: Why private credit is not the "bond-like risk" some claim it is How super funds allocate private credit under regulatory pressure Why borrower type, loan structure and economic cycles matter ...
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Australia, India and new global trade opportunities
With Interest
How do you maintain your strategic focus in such a volatile global market? Sanjeev Gandhi, Orica’s managing director and CEO, shares his insightful views on this and much more. Gandhi and CPA Australia CEO Chris Freeland chatted on stage at the recent ECTA (Economic Trade and Agreement) Unleashed event – a one-day conference held in Sydney between CPA Australia and the Australian (Sydney) chapter of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. The event connected CPA Australia members,...
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New AML reforms and what they mean for accountants
With Interest
All works contained in this podcast are not intended to constitute legal or professional advice and may not reflect the views and opinions of CPA Australia. CPA Australia does not warrant or make representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability or fitness for purpose of this podcast and disclaims all liability and responsibility for any acts or omissions made in reliance of this podcast. Individuals should seek their own independent legal, financial or other advice for their specific circumstances. When anti-money...
info_outlineIt’s a volatile world, and businesses are under pressure.
In this episode of With Interest, Gavan Ord, Business Investment and International lead at CPA Australia, explores how businesses are navigating an increasingly unstable global environment marked by geopolitical conflict, cost pressures and economic shocks.
The conversation draws on insights from CPA Australia’s Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey to unpack how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are coping, and what separates those that merely survive from those that emerge stronger.
The discussion emphasises that while volatility is becoming the norm, uncertainty does not have to result in paralysis.
Instead, thoughtful planning, investment in capability, and trusted advice can help businesses build resilience and position for long‑term growth, even as governments and markets remain focused on short‑term crises.
Key areas covered:
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How global conflicts, fuel price shocks and inflation affect small businesses across Australia and the APAC region.
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How a risk‑averse mindset changes business decision‑making, and the risks of focusing only on cost‑cutting.
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What role accountants and advisors can play through scenario planning, forecasting and calming decision‑making.
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Why businesses that continue investing in technology, innovation and management capability perform better during crises.
If you’re navigating uncertainty in business, this episode has expert insights to help.
Host: Elinor Kasapidis, Chief of Policy, Standards and External Affairs, CPA Australia
Guest: Gavan Ord, Business Investment and International lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia
For more, head online for CPA Australia’s 17th Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey.
CPA Australia also has tips for managing through tough times and managing through a high cost environment
ABC News finance journalist Alan Kohler talking about fluctuating oil prices on April 7, mentioned in this episode.
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CPA Australia publishes four podcasts, providing commentary and thought leadership across business, finance and accounting:
INTHEBLACK Out Loud https://www.cpaaustralia.com.au/tools-and-resources/podcasts/intheblack-outloud
Search for them in your podcast platform. Email the podcast team at podcasts@cpaaustralia.com.au