KNAV Merges in HLG Netherlands

KNAV, an Atlanta-based global accounting firm and a top 300 firm in the U.S., has combined with HLG Netherlands, a firm that provides tax, assurance, and advisory services, effective Oct. 16.

This merger builds on a five-year joint venture between the accounting firms, which was designed to serve KNAV’s multinational clients with subsidiaries in the Netherlands while giving HLG access to KNAV’s global talent pool.

The combination of the two Allinial Global member firms comes at a time when KNAV is strengthening its global presence. Earlier this year, KNAV acquired N&S in Singapore. Last year, the firm implemented an alternate practice structure in the jurisdictions where it operates, as part of its preparation for granting stock appreciation rights awards to its employees worldwide and for expanding and fortifying its foreign operations.

Last month KNAV announced it had secured a minority investment from NKSquared, the U.S. investment vehicle of Indian billionaire entrepreneur and investor Nikhil Kamath.

Nishta Sharma

“This combination allows us to fully integrate our Netherlands operations, creating more value for our clients,” KNAV CEO Nishta Sharma said in a statement on Nov. 4. “We’ve enjoyed a strong partnership with HLG over the past five years, and this integration enhances our ability to deliver seamless, high-quality services across borders.”

The Allinial Global affiliation will enable KNAV and HLG to deliver international capabilities to their multinational clients.

“This combination enhances our ability to serve our clients with expanded resources and global reach, while maintaining the personalized service we are known for,” said Carlos Apapoe, managing partner of HLG who will serve on KNAV’s board of directors.

Outside of its Atlanta headquarters, the firm has offices in New York City, Houston, and San Ramon, CA, as well as offices in Canada, the Netherlands, India, the Philippines, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.