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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businessman using a digital checklist
SECURE Act 2.0: Key Audit Risks Plan Sponsors Should Address Before the 2026 Year-End Amendment Deadline

As retirement plans continue implementing the wide-ranging provisions of SECURE Act 2.0, 2026 represents an important compliance milestone for plan sponsors. Most calendar-year retirement plans must formally adopt their SECURE Act 2.0 plan amendments by December 31, 2026, even though many provisions have already become operationally effective. As a result, auditors are increasingly focused on…

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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…