Michael-Pahira_Web

Michael Pahira

CPA Principal, Team Leader, Professional Sports and Esports

Get to Know Me

Michael has over 17 years of experience in the financial reporting needs of public and closely-held businesses, specializing in the consumer products and manufacturing and distribution industries, with additional expertise in risk assessment and internal control-related work

 He is the Team Leader for both Withum’s Sports and Entertainment industry practice and the Red Bank ERISA team. He is a member of the Firm’s Employee Benefits and Pension Plan Team and the Accounting and Auditing Fellowship program.  

Industry Expertise

Service Expertise

Learn More About My Story

Learn more about my professional experience and how I spend my time outside the firm.

Education:

  • B.S., Business Administration, Pace University

Professional Affiliations:

  • Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member, New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA)

Michael supports the Francis Foundation for Children with Cancer. 

Outside of the office, Michael enjoys spending time with his family and practicing his hobbies, including golf, football, and general physical fitness. 

Authored Insights

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up close shot of the back of a us penny.
How Should Businesses Handle Cash Rounding During the Penny Shortage?

Retailers across the United States are increasingly feeling the effects of a nationwide penny shortage, a challenge that has intensified as the U.S. phases out production of the one-cent coin. With no new pennies minted for circulation in months, and the Treasury Department preparing to end penny production entirely in early 2026, many brick-and-mortar establishments…

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esports-cyber-crime
How the ‘E’ in Esports Increases Criminal Threats

As we’ve covered previously, there are threats to Collegiate venues and game developers that are unique to the Esport industry. However, the largest growing segment of victims is the athletes and streamers themselves. Aside from the issues common to competitive sport – such as doping – athletes and streamers are at additional risk of online…

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digital lock. cybersecurity.
The Great University Data Breach That Hasn’t Happened Yet

Over the last several years, it has become apparent how rapid the growth of collegiate Esports has become. What was once considered a pastime of playing video games after school has become a growing varsity sport for many colleges nationwide. Universities have also begun to heavily invest in arenas dedicated to Esports. For those athletes…