Accenture Considering IPO

Although insiders at Accenture are not confirming the reports, industry insiders claim [1] the consulting firm is seriously considering taking itself public in the near future.

Reports indicate that the 71,300-employee company is moving beyond the umbrella of consulting to include venture capital, business incubation, and outsourcing services as part of its practice.

The firm released revenue figures last week, which showed a rise of 10% over 1999. Research analysts estimated the company's market value is in the $12 to $13 billion range.

This compares to the current $1.9 billion market value of KPMG Consulting which floated an IPO earlier this year. Shares of KPMG Consulting, trading as KCIN, are currently valued at approximately $12.50, compared with the $18 opening price in February.