Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 8-K is a current report filed by Fluidigm Corporation (not Standard BioTools Inc.) on August 28, 2015. The filing addresses a change in the registrant's certifying accountant.
Key Financial Metrics
The filing text does not provide specific values for revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. The document focuses exclusively on the transition of the independent registered public accounting firm.
Material Changes
- Dismissal of Auditor: On August 28, 2015, Fluidigm Corporation dismissed Ernst & Young LLP (E&Y) as its independent registered public accounting firm, effective immediately.
- Engagement of New Auditor: On the same date, the company selected PricewaterhouseCoopers LLC (PwC) as its new independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015.
- Audit History: E&Y's reports for fiscal years 2013 and 2014 contained no adverse opinions, disclaimers, or qualifications. There were no disagreements with E&Y regarding accounting principles, practices, or audit scope during those periods or the interim period through August 28, 2015.
Guidance, Outlook, and Risks
The filing does not contain financial guidance, outlook, or management commentary on business performance. It notes that PwC had previously provided consulting services in December 2013 regarding the acquisition of DVS Sciences, Inc., including accounting for the business combination, senior convertible notes, and segment reporting. These matters were reflected in the 2014 audited financial statements. No other consultations regarding accounting principles or disagreements with PwC were reported.
Investor Verification Checklist
- Verify the reasons for the dismissal of Ernst & Young LLP, as the filing states no disagreements occurred.
- Confirm the completion of PwC's standard client acceptance procedures and the execution of the engagement letter.
- Review the attached letter from Ernst & Young LLP (Exhibit 16.1) for any additional context regarding the dismissal.
- Monitor future filings for the first financial statements audited by PwC to ensure continuity in reporting standards.