On the Move: CRI Launches Capital Markets Practice

Why It Matters

The new practice gives CRI a foothold in a high‑growth segment where small‑cap companies seek specialized compliance and advisory support, potentially boosting revenue and market share. It also reflects increasing regulatory complexity driving demand for integrated capital‑markets expertise.

Key Takeaways

• CRI's new practice targets small‑cap IPO readiness.
• Brent Leslie leads practice from NYC and Palm Beach.
• Partners added to bolster audit, private‑equity services.
• Expands CRI's footprint in capital‑markets advisory.
• Addresses growing demand for middle‑market compliance support.

Pulse Analysis

Carr, Riggs & Ingram’s capital‑markets practice marks a strategic expansion beyond traditional accounting services. Led by Brent Leslie, the team combines seasoned partners—Michael Corkery, Elizabeth Marks, and Joshua Hallett—with a dedicated business‑development head, Jim Duffy. Based in New York City and Palm Beach Gardens, the unit offers end‑to‑end solutions ranging from IPO readiness and SEC reporting to PCAOB‑compliant audits and private‑equity accounting, targeting the underserved small‑cap and middle‑market segments that often lack in‑house expertise.

The timing aligns with heightened regulatory scrutiny and a surge of private‑equity activity in the middle market. Small‑cap firms now face complex filing requirements, tighter audit standards, and increasing pressure to demonstrate governance maturity before accessing public capital. By bundling advisory, audit, and reporting functions, CRI reduces friction for these companies, enabling faster capital‑raising cycles and smoother transitions to public markets. This integrated model also appeals to private‑equity sponsors seeking reliable compliance partners to protect their investments during due‑diligence and post‑deal integration.

For CRI, the practice diversifies revenue streams and positions the firm against larger competitors like Deloitte and PwC, which have long‑standing capital‑markets divisions. The dual‑city footprint taps into both the financial hub of New York and the growing fintech ecosystem in South Florida, broadening client access. As regulatory demands intensify, firms that can deliver comprehensive, compliant solutions are likely to capture market share, making CRI’s move a potentially significant growth catalyst over the next few years.