Xero sets its sights on Asia, first stop, Singapore

Xero has entered into a strategic partnership with KPMG in Singapore in order to help it extend its global reach.

KPMG is Xero's first Platinum Partner in Asia, and the company's first outside of its four main markets, New Zealand, Australia, United Kingdom and United States.

In NZ and the UK, Xero has made similar strategic alliances with KPMG member firms.

These strategic partnerships combine Xero's cloud-based accounting software with KPMG's business expertise.

This partnership will enable Singapore enterprises and startups to utilise Xero's online accounting and tax services, track their business performance and cash-flow online in real-time, and make use of the business expertise of KPMG's professionals.

Services include accounts preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, GST and filing of corporate tax returns.

Victoria Crone, Xero managing director for New Zealand and Global, says, "It is exciting that KPMG has selected Xero as a technology platform partner for their online services, confirming our belief that cloud accounting is fast becoming an important platform for both accounting firms and small businesses worldwide.

"Xero is used by more than 400,000 customers in over 180 countries globally. And the speed at which small businesses globally are adopting Xero shows they want accounting software that is beautiful, easy to use, and can be operated from anywhere, on any device.

"This partnership is Xero's third with KPMG globally and firmly aligns with our vision to make it easier for small businesses to meet their compliance requirements and ultimately run things more smoothly.

"We believe that Xero is an effective platform for KPMG to access business data and reduce compliance costs," Crone says.

Johnny MacAvoy, Xero sales director for Global, says, "Today's announcement of KPMG as our first Platinum Partner outside our four major markets really demonstrates Xero's global reach and our role as a global cloud provider - servicing small businesses all over the world.

Owi Kek Hean, KPMG Singapore deputy managing partner and head of enterprise market segment, says, "We are delighted to see this partnership inked with Xero.

"It will allow us to offer professional services aligned closer to the unique needs of local enterprise and start-ups, while making enhanced reporting and other value added services available should they need it.

"Cloud accounting is fast becoming an important platform for both accounting firms and small businesses.

"They do not only result in cost savings, but they can help organisations increase workforce flexibility, improve customer service and enhance data analytics," he says.