NEW YORK, NY -- (Marketwire) -- 02/04/13 -- Charles A. Barragato & Co. LLP ("CAB"), CPAs and Trusted Business Advisors, is proud to announce that Michael Chen has joined CAB as a partner in the newly-created hedge fund and private equity tax advisory division. Michael will bring over 15 years of tax advisory experience to CAB, where he will be responsible for the growth and technical excellence of this new division. Michael specializes in advising and planning for the unique complexities and needs of highly successful owners and managers of hedge funds and private equity firms.

Chuck Barragato, founder and managing partner of CAB, is excited about this new division and the addition of Michael as a partner of the firm, effective January 7th. Chuck says, "Michael brings a unique skill-set to CAB that will complement our existing expertise and prominence in the high net-worth and family office areas. Michael not only has the technical expertise, but also has a proven skill for client development. Best of all, he has a terrific personality with proven leadership skills."

Michael adds, "I am joining CAB because of its extraordinary reputation as a high-quality tax and business advisor to high net-worth families and individuals. My hedge fund and private equity clientele will appreciate the skill set CAB provides as part of the team in delivering high-quality service. CAB also gives me the platform I will need to grow this segment of the practice, which was a key consideration for me."

About Michael Chen

Michael Chen is a CPA in practice over 15 years. He specializes in providing business advisory and tax consulting/planning services to individuals, family offices, businesses, estates and trusts. His expertise covers various industries including financial services (including hedge fund and private equity), real estate, start ups, insurance, manufacturing and professional services. Michael is known for his innovative, in-depth tax planning expertise as well as the ability to analyze, explain and implement sophisticated techniques to his clients. Michael holds a BS in Accounting from the University at Buffalo. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants. He is fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin.

About CAB

Charles A. Barragato & Co. LLP ("CAB"), CPAs and Trusted Business Advisors, provides tax, accounting, business advisory and management services across major markets to a diverse clientele, including high net-worth individuals and affluent multi-generational families, real estate investors and developers, hedge fund owner / managers, exempt organizations and healthcare providers such as hospitals, physicians and the proprietary businesses serving them.

For further information about CAB's full range services, please visit our website www.cabcpa.com or call (212) 371-4446 and ask for Chuck Barragato, managing partner.