Late January found our own international tax nerd-in-chief, Marc Schwartz, trading spreadsheets for surf vibes (well, almost!) on a strategic working visit to Maui, Hawaiʻi. But make no mistake — this wasn’t a vacation in the traditional sense. It was a high-energy strategy meeting with industry leaders that underscores how international tax expertise is being deployed in real-world advisory with collaborative partners.
Spire Hawai‘i LLP is a dynamic accounting and consulting firm with roots in assurance, audit, and business advisory services across multiple industries. Founded by experienced professionals committed to delivering actionable insights that drive better financial outcomes, Spire Hawai‘i has carved out a reputation in Hawaii for blending technical rigor with practical client service across commercial, nonprofit, government, and tourism sectors.
The firms are reviewing their respective client bases to see where the other firm may be able to add value. The focus is “how do we actually implement solutions that work for real clients?” — from cross-border advisory offerings to practical frameworks for delivering international tax services that integrate smoothly with existing accounting engagements. They also shared ideas on growing pains, training, office culture vs telecommuting and, of course, how to use AI constructively. [They also gave Marc some beard trimming advice 😊 ]
This is at the heart of what we do at International Tax Nerds. Our engagements — whether directly with clients or in partnership with other firms — are grounded in technical excellence and a pragmatic mindset. International tax is complex, but the advice we deliver is never academic; it’s implementable, understandable, and calibrated to our clients’ strategic goals.
Being on the ground in Hawaiʻi also gave Marc a firsthand look at how local firms are adapting to a rapidly changing tax and business landscape. More than ever, firms like Spire are seeking to expand the breadth and depth of services they deliver to clients — whether that’s through enhanced internal controls, forward-looking tax planning, or expanded international tax capabilities. Our collaboration discussions centered on practical ways to bring global tax thinking to local client needs, with an eye toward clear, actionable advisory deliverables.
For International Tax Nerds, this trip was more than an exchange of business cards against a backdrop of ocean breezes — it was a strategic alignment of vision. We left Hawaiʻi energized and ready to build on collective strengths, blending local advisory excellence with deep international tax practice to deliver what matters most: clarity, confidence, and results for clients navigating cross-border complexity.
If your firm is looking to integrate international tax insights into your suite of services — in ways that are both technically sound and operationally implementable — let’s talk. There’s always more to do, and we love hitting the ground ready to get it done. 🌺
About Spire Hawai’I LLP
Pragmatic and relationship focused, Spire is an independent strategic advisory and accounting firm that provides clarity and action to solve an organization’s toughest challenges. Comprised of strategists, accountants, marketers, technologists and designers, they deploy small engagement teams that deliver big results.
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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