Crossing Borders and Nerding Out: Reflections from the IR Global – London 25 Conference
November in London wasn’t just about cozy pubs and brisk Thames walks — it was where the brightest minds in global advisory convened for the IR Global – London 25 Conference on November 20–21, 2025. Hosted at the iconic Kimpton Fitzroy London, this intimate gathering brought together around 100 top advisors, thought leaders, and dealmakers from around the world for two days of high-level insight, idea sharing, and relationship building.
Our own Marc Schwartz, International Tax Nerd-in-Chief, and Charles Christensen, Managing Partner of CGC International Tax, were in London representing our firm and the broader international tax community. Both brought their deep technical chops along with a practical mindset honed from years of real-world client work.
Why This Conference Mattered
What made IR Global – London 25 special wasn’t just the pedigree of attendees or the stunning venue — it was the quality of exchange. Panels, sponsor crews, and keynote sessions didn’t just survey worldwide tax and investment trends; they invited honest, sometimes challenging, conversations about what advisory work looks like in 2026 and beyond. Attendees kicked things off with a guided tour of the British Museum, sparking global perspectives before diving into networking breakfasts, expert talks, interactive discussions, and even a formal networking dinner at the legendary 113 Chancery Lane.
Across sessions, themes emerged that any international tax nerd will recognize: the importance of aligning tactical compliance with strategic opportunity, the need for international planning that actually works in implementation, and the value of trusted relationships across jurisdictions. These are precisely the areas where International Tax Nerds shine — not just understanding rules, but helping clients navigate them in ways that fit their goals and livelihoods.
A Culture of Collaboration
One of the most memorable aspects of the London event was the collaborative spirit. Established peers and rising advisors mingled, debated, and connected across practice areas — a testament to how international tax work truly functions in today’s global economy. Whether over drinks at a reception or in the hallways between sessions, the conference embodied the kind of professional camaraderie that leads to real referrals, strategic partnerships, and fresh thinking.
Looking Ahead
With a full IR Global events calendar planned for 2026 — from Singapore to Lisbon and beyond — the momentum is unmistakable. But what stays with us from London isn’t just what we learned, it’s how we learned it: through conversation, curiosity, and a willingness to explore the complex with clarity and humor.
After all, international tax doesn’t have to be dreary — it just has to be nerdy enough to solve big problems. And as International Tax Nerds, that’s exactly how we like it.
About Schwartz International
Schwartz International is a boutique international tax advisory firm that helps both individuals and businesses with global tax, global structuring and reporting/disclosure. The firm partners with CPA firms, law firms, and individuals and companies of all revenue sizes to solve cross-border tax challenges with creativity, precision, and a deep commitment to client success. Learn more about our sister law firm here.
About IR Global
IR Global is a leading professional services network, connecting top-tier boutique and mid-sized firms, globally. IR Global members excel in partner-led, cross-border expertise, delivering bespoke legal, accountancy and financial solutions to meet complex client needs.
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