How will US public policy shape business in 2026?

The US public policy landscape continues to evolve and impact US and global businesses. We cover key developments in Washington, D.C., including tariffs, AI, and other areas as well as at the SEC and PCAOB, along with what it all means for financial reporting and strategic decision-making.

In this episode, we discuss:

• 1:04 – Overview of the 2026 public policy environment and business implications 
• 4:17 – Affordability challenges and limits of policy solutions
• 9:35 – Tariff strategy shifts and ongoing uncertainty for businesses
• 13:43 – SEC and PCAOB priorities and leadership changes 
• 27:51 – INVEST Act and the outlook for capital formation 
• 31:06 – AI governance and the fragmented state and federal approach 
• 36:48 – Key takeaways and what businesses should monitor in 2026

For more on tariffs, listen to our recent episode, Tariff uncertainty: Business and financial reporting impacts. Be sure to follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop. 

About our guests

Roz Brooks is PwC's US Public Policy Leader. Roz is responsible for ensuring PwC has a voice in important debates at the nexus of business and government and helping the firm successfully execute its business strategy. Roz leads PwC’s engagement with Congress, the White House, regulatory agencies, state and local governments, and organizations including trade associations, think tanks, and NGOs.

Michael O’Brien is a PwC Director in the Office of Government, Regulatory Affairs & Public Policy. Michael represents the firm and its interests before Congress, the Executive Branch and federal regulatory agencies. He has advocated on the firm's behalf on matters including the implementation of Sarbanes-Oxley and Dodd-Frank, state and federal taxation matters, IFRS, litigation reform, and the competitiveness of the U.S. capital markets. Besides assisting in general lobbying activities, Michael has researched and developed periodic political analyses and strategies for firm distribution.

About our guest host

Kyle Moffatt is PwC’s Professional Practice leader, leading a team responsible for working with standard setters and regulators as well as delivering brand-defining thought leadership and educational materials. He also consults with engagement teams and audit clients on SEC reporting matters. Before PwC, Kyle spent almost 20 years with the SEC, most recently as Chief Accountant and Disclosure Program Director in the Division of Corporation Finance.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.

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