I’ve just returned from Xerocon – Xero’s flagship conference – and while some might call it a “junket,” I can assure you it was much more than that. Yes, there was fun (Xero knows how to put on a show), but more importantly, there was an enormous amount of learning, networking, and inspiration that I can now bring back to help you, our clients.
If you’re not familiar with Xerocon, it’s essentially the biggest event on the calendar for accountants, bookkeepers, and advisors who use Xero. It’s where new features and tools are unveiled, where industry leaders share insights, and where app providers showcase the latest innovations designed to make running a business easier.
I’ve been attending Xerocon for years now, and each time I walk away with fresh ideas on how to better support small business owners like you.
Here are my top takeaways from this year’s event.
1. Xero + AI = Smarter Insights
One of the biggest themes this year was artificial intelligence. Xero and many of its ecosystem partners are now building tools that not only record what’s already happened in your business (the traditional accounting side) but also predict what’s coming next.
This shift from being reactive to proactive is massive. Imagine being able to identify early signs of a cash flow issue before it occurs, or spotting growth opportunities you may have overlooked. That’s where AI-powered insights are taking us, and I’m eager to start applying them to work for our clients.
2. SYft: Next-Level Analytics
Xero has acquired an analytics tool called Syft, and it’s a game-changer. While Xero already provides us with excellent reporting, Syft takes it a step further by helping us forecast trends and highlight what’s working (and what’s not) in real-time.
For business owners, this means moving beyond just compliance and into true business intelligence. It ties in beautifully with Profit First and our focus on cash flow and planning at NGR Accounting.
3. The Power of the Xero Ecosystem
Xero isn’t just software on its own; it connects to hundreds of apps that can be tailored to different industries. From payment systems like Ignition to project management, payroll, and point-of-sale apps, there’s a whole ecosystem designed to save time and improve accuracy.
At Xerocon, I caught up with long-time providers we use (like Ignition) and explored new tools that could make life easier for our clients. The beauty of these add-ons is that they integrate directly into your Xero file, providing seamless workflows and enhanced data to inform your decisions.
4. Networking and Shared Learning
It’s not just about software. Xerocon is also about community. I spent time with other accountants, bookkeepers, and advisors, sharing stories and learning how they tackle challenges. We may all run our practices differently, but ultimately, we’re united by the goal of helping business owners thrive.
This networking is invaluable because it enables us to bring back best practices and fresh ideas that ultimately benefit you.
5. Lessons in Leadership
One personal reflection: I should have taken my team with me. While I absorbed so much, I realised how powerful it would’ve been for them to see the new features, meet app providers, and bring back their own insights. Next time, that will happen because the more empowered the whole team is, the better support we can provide you.
Why This Matters for Your Business
So why does all this matter to you as a business owner? Because every upgrade, every app, and every piece of insight from Xerocon is ultimately about helping you run a better business.
With the tools and knowledge I’ve brought back, we’ll be able to:
- Spot financial trends earlier
- Help you plan more effectively for growth
- Create efficiencies through automation and smarter apps
- Support you not just with compliance, but with strategy and foresight
That’s what excites me most about Xerocon: it’s about taking accounting beyond numbers and into real business improvement.
Ready to See What’s Possible?
If you’re curious about how Xero and its ecosystem could work better for your business, or if you’d like to explore forecasting and cash flow tools like Syft, let’s chat.
The future of accounting isn’t just about tax; it’s about helping you build a business that truly serves your life. And after Xerocon 2025, I’m more committed than ever to making that a reality for our clients.