Transaction that is accounted for differently under IFRS and U.S. GAAP.

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Select any transaction that is accounted for differently under IFRS and U.S. GAAP. What are these differences? Examples of problematic areas include discretionary reserves, goodwill, deferred taxes, inventory valuation, segmental information, asset valuation policies and hidden reserves. Discuss the ways FASB and the IASB are working to eliminate these differences.

 

 

Sample Solution

One significant area of divergence between IFRS and US GAAP is the valuation of inventory.

 

 

Inventory Valuation Under IFRS and US GAAP

  • IFRS: Permits the use of FIFO (First In, First Out), Weighted Average Cost, and Specific Identification methods. However, it explicitly prohibits the use of LIFO (Last In, First Out).

 

Implications of the Difference

The choice of inventory valuation method can significantly impact a company’s financial statements, particularly during periods of inflation. LIFO tends to lower taxable income and net income during inflationary periods by matching the most recent, higher-priced inventory with current revenues. This can lead to lower income taxes. However, it can also distort the balance sheet by undervaluing inventory.

 

Efforts to Converge IFRS and US GAAP

The FASB and IASB have made significant strides in converging accounting standards. While they have not yet addressed the specific issue of inventory valuation, their overall convergence efforts aim to reduce differences between the two frameworks. Key initiatives include:

 

  • Conceptual Framework: Developing a shared conceptual framework to provide a common foundation for accounting standards.
  • Joint Projects: Collaborating on specific projects to address areas of difference, such as revenue recognition, financial instruments, and leases.

 

  • Staff Collaboration: Fostering ongoing communication and cooperation between the two standard-setting bodies.

While the complete elimination of differences between IFRS and US GAAP is a complex and gradual process, these efforts are essential for achieving a more globally consistent financial reporting landscape.

Other areas of difference between IFRS and US GAAP that have been addressed or are under consideration for convergence include:

  • Revenue recognition: Both standards have adopted a similar, principles-based approach.

 

  • Financial instruments: Significant progress has been made in aligning the standards.
  • Leases: Both standards have adopted a similar approach to lease accounting.
  • Impairment of assets: Convergence efforts are ongoing to reduce differences in impairment testing.

It’s important to note that while convergence is progressing, there will likely always be some differences between the two standards due to varying economic and regulatory environments.

 

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