Beyond the GAAP

Following the announcement of the first results for 2019 in February, companies that have not yet closed their accounts need to consider the potential implications of the current coronavirus epidemic for the disclosures required in the notes on events after the reporting period in accordance with IAS 10, as some market regulators have just recalled.

The year 2019 drew to a close with the publication of an exposure draft proposing significant changes to the presentation of IFRS financial statements, particularly the statement of comprehensive income. Consultations will continue in the new year, with many projects listed in the IASB’s work plan.

As the 2019 financial statements are finalised, the first-time application of IFRS 16 will have kept stakeholders on their toes right up to the last minute. This is because the IFRS Interpretations Committee did not officially clarify until 16 December how the term of certain leases should be determined.

As 2019 draws to a close, we present our usual overview of applicable standards and interpretations, with IFRS 16 – Leases obviously being the key new standard for this year.

As the end of the year approaches, we’ve reached the time when European enforcers publish their recommendations for year-end financial reporting.

September saw the publication of two long-awaited decisions by the IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRS IC).

Following the summer break, IAS 12 – Income Taxes and IFRS 17 – Insurance Contracts are in the spotlight, with consultations on both from the IASB as well as a detailed Public Statement from ESMA, the European enforcer, on the former.

The half-yearly financial statements stand between you and your well-earned summer break, so it may be worth taking a look at the IFRS IC’s agenda decisions on IFRS 15, IFRS 16 and cryptocurrencies. After that, you could take our crossword away with you - a light-hearted edition that brings the series to a close.

As announced last month, the IASB has begun to publish a number of exposure drafts. With consultation deadlines phased from June to September, these will keep stakeholders busy throughout the summer.