Helix Energy Solutions Group Inc Dismisses KPMG, Engages EY as Auditor

What Happened

• Helix Energy Solutions Group Inc (HLX) filed an 8-K on September 2, 2026 stating that its Audit Committee approved the dismissal of KPMG LLP as the company’s independent registered public accounting firm, effective September 2, 2026. The Audit Committee concurrently approved engaging Ernst & Young LLP (EY) as the new independent registered public accounting firm.
• The filing notes KPMG’s audit reports on Helix’s consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 were unmodified (no adverse opinion or disclaimer) and that there were no disagreements or reportable events with KPMG for those years or the subsequent interim period through September 2, 2026. KPMG’s letter dated September 2, 2026 is filed as Exhibit 16.1 to the 8-K.

Key Details

• Effective date of change: September 2, 2026.
• KPMG’s reports for years ended Dec. 31, 2025 and Dec. 31, 2024 contained no qualifications, adverse opinions, or disclaimers.
• No disagreements or reportable events with KPMG during FY2024, FY2025, or the interim period through Sept. 2, 2026.
• Helix did not consult EY on accounting or auditing matters for FY2024, FY2025, or the interim period through Sept. 2, 2026.

Why It Matters

• A change in independent auditor is a notable governance event that can affect how future financial statements are audited and presented. For investors, the key facts here — that KPMG’s prior reports were unmodified and that there were no reported disagreements — provide continuity and suggest there were no unresolved accounting disputes with the outgoing auditor. Investors should watch upcoming filings and the first audit reports issued by EY for any changes in audit scope, disclosures, or accounting judgments.