Grant Thornton agrees to buy CBIZ in $5 billion deal, forming major US advisory firm

Grant Thornton’s U.S. operations agree to acquire CBIZ Inc. in a $5 billion transaction, one of the largest professional services deals in more than 25 years. Multiple outlets report that the agreement values CBIZ at about $5 billion and is structured as a cash deal, with CBIZ shareholders receiving $5 billion in cash for the company. The acquisition is expected to expand Grant Thornton’s footprint in the U.S. accounting and advisory market, where Deloitte, EY, KPMG and PwC are the dominant firms. After the purchase, the combined organization is projected to become the fifth-largest professional services provider in the United States. The transaction also reflects ongoing consolidation in the sector, as firms seek to increase scale and market presence. In reaction to the announcement, CBIZ shares rise significantly, with one report citing a 17% gain. The sources collectively frame the deal as a step that strengthens Grant Thornton’s competitive position relative to other mid-sized accounting and advisory firms, while further reshaping the U.S. industry landscape.