Standard on Accounting for

Investments Using Equity Method

 

 

Standard on Accounting for Investments using Equity Method

 

 

#

Subject

Page

1.

Scope

87

2.

Objective

87

3.

Statement of the Standard

88

4.

Presentation

90

5.

Disclosures

91

6.

Definitions

92

7.

Analytical comparative Study.

95

8.

Practical cases and examples for application of the standard.

115

 

 


Standard on Accounting for

Investments using Equity Method

 

1.  Scope :

1.1    This standard identifies the requirements for measurement, recognition, presentation and disclosure of investments, that give the investing business enterprise the ability to exercise significant influence over the financial and operating policies of the investee, irrespective of the size or legal form of the investor.

            (Paragraph 101)

1.2    This standard does not apply to investments accounted for under the standard on Consolidated Financial Statements nor standard on Accounting for Investments in Securities. Also it does not apply to enterprises whose investments is treated according to specialized accounting standards approved by GCCAAO including enterprises whose sole purpose is investment in securities.

(Paragraph 102)

1.3    The paragraphs of this standard shall be read in the context of the conceptual framework of financial accounting and the General Presentation and Disclosure Standard approved by GCCAAO.

(Paragraph 103)

1.4    This standard applies only to material investment items.

            (Paragraph 104)

2.  Objective :

     The objective of this standard is to identify the basis and procedures to be followed for the use of the equity method and the underlying requirements for presentation and disclosure for the financial statements to fairly present the financial position of the investor and the results of its operations.

            (Paragraph 105)

3.  Statement of the Standard :

3.1    Measurement and Recognition :

3.1.1 Measurement and Recognition of Investments at the date of Acquisition

The investment should be measured and recognized at cost at the date of acquisition. Cost includes the purchase price as well as all associated acquisition costs incurred.

            (Paragraph 106)

3.2   Measurement and Recognition of Investment after Acquisition :

3.2.1    The investment should be measured and recorded in the periods which follow its acquisition date, at its historical cost adjusted by the investor’s share of the investee’s net income (loss) and dividends.

(Paragraph 107)

3.2.2    The difference between the cost of the investment and the investor’s share in the book value of the net assets of the investee as at the investment date, should be amortized over the remaining useful life of the assets of the investee which caused such a difference. Goodwill, if any, should be amortized over the lesser of the estimated period of benefit, or 20 years from the date of its establishment.

(Paragraph 108)

3.2.3    The investing enterprise’s share in the investee’s net income (loss) should be recognized on a timely basis after the elimination of preferred shares and its dividends, (if any).

(Paragraph 109)

3.2.4    Unrealized gains or losses on intercompany transactions between the investing enterprise and the investee should be eliminated based on the percentage of equity and the investment balance should be adjusted accordingly.

(Paragraph 110)

3.2.5    Gains or losses on sale of the investment shares to a third party should be recognized when sold.  Gains or losses should equal the difference between the selling price and the carrying amount of the shares sold at the selling date.

(Paragraph 111)

3.2.6    Other than temporary decline in investment value should be recognized when occurred. Losses resulting from such a decline should be recognized in the income of the period in which the other than-temporary decline has occurred, and the investment value should be adjusted accordingly.

(Paragraph 112)

3.2.7    If the financial period of an investee and investor is different, the latest prepared financial statements of the investee should be used to determine the investing enterprise’s share in the income or losses of the investee. Mostly the investee prepares its financial statements concurrent to those of the investor for the purpose of  being use by investor. If this became impracticable, the difference between the financial periods of the two entities must be regular between each period and another. Necessary adjustments should made for the effects resulting from significant events and transactions occurring between the investor and investee during the period falling the dates of preparation of financial statements of the two entities, if such dates are different.

(Paragraph 113)

3.2.8    If an investee adopts accounting policies inconsistent with those applied by an investing enterprise on similar transactions and events, the investing enterprise should make the necessary adjustments to the investee’s financial statements upon the use of the equity method.

(Paragraph 114)

3.2.9    The investing enterprise should discontinue applying the equity method in the following cases :

A. When the investing enterprise is unable to exercise significant influence over the investee’s financial and operating policies.

(Paragraph 115)

B.  If the investment value is reduced to zero as a result of the continuous losses of the investee (unless the investing enterprise has guaranteed the obligations of the investee or has otherwise committed to provide further financial support for the investee).  Application of the equity method will resumed if the envestee attained net profits equal to the net loss, during cessation period.

(Paragraph 116)

3.2.10     If the equity method ceases to be applied due to loss of the ability to significantly influence and upon the application of another method (i.e. fair value), the carrying value of the investment at the cessation date should be considered as a basis for the application of the new method and the investment value shall not be adjusted retroactively.

(Paragraph 117)

3.2.11     When applying the equity method for the first time on an investment that was previously accounted for on a basis other than the equity method, a retroactive adjustment to the investor’s investment balances, retained earnings and results of operations should be made (for the current and all presented previous years).

(Paragraph 118)

4.  Presentation :

4.1    The investor’s investment accounted for under the equity method should be disclosed as a single line item on the balance sheet  under non-current assets.

(Paragraph 119)

4.2    The investor’s share of investee’s net income (loss) should be disclosed as a single line item on the income statement of the investee (after the elimination of profits or losses on inter-company transactions) following profit from transactions. The investor’s share in extraordinary profits and/or losses should be shown under extraordinary items. Prior year adjustments should be presented in the statement of retained earnings.

(Paragraph 120)

4.3    Losses arising from other than temporary decline in investment value should be shown within losses in the statement of income for the period during which the decline has occurred.

(Paragraph 121)

5.  Disclosures :

The following should be disclosed:

5.1 The accounting policies for investment according to the equity method.

(Paragraph 122)

5.2    Reasons for not applying of the equity method where the investor holds 20% - 50% of the net assets of the investee.

(Paragraph 123)

5.3    Name of the investee in which the investor exercises significant influence, percentage of ownership in the voting capital of that investee, and the fair value of each investment at the date of preparation of the financial statements.

(Paragraph 124)

5.4    Any transfer of other transferable securities to ordinary shares if such transfer has significant influence on the investor’s shares in earnings and losses of the investees.

(Paragraph 125)

 

6.  Definitions :

6.1  Investment :

An investment is an asset held by an enterprise for the accretion of wealth through distribution (such as dividends, rentals, or other returns) or capital appreciation or for other benefits to the investor such as those obtained through trading relationships.

(Paragraph 126)

6.2    Investor : 

Is an enterprise that holds an investment in another enterprise.

(Paragraph 127)

6.3    Investee :

An enterprise in which the investor has an investment.

(Paragraph 128)

6.4    Share :

For the purpose of this standard, share means the investing enterprises rights and obligations.

(Paragraph 129)

6.5    Significant influence :

Is the influence that does not give the investor the ability to exercise control in using or directing the use of the investee’s assets to gain economic benefits. Significant influence may be indicated by the following indicators unless there is evidence of the absence of such influence :

a)   Holding by an investor (directly or indirectly) an interest between 20% to 50% in the voting capital of the investee.

b)   Holding of minority interests less than 20% in the net assets of the investee, provided that the following conditions are met :

i)    Existence of representation for the investor on the investee’s board of directors.

ii) Participation by the investor in plans and policy-making processes of the investee.

iii)   Interchange of managerial personnel between the investee and the investor.

iv)  The investee’s reliance on the investor in technical aspects (use of technology).

v)   Existence of material intercompany transactions.

(Paragraph 130)

6.6    Other than-temporary decline :

The decline is considered other than temporary if certain indicators exist which evidence its continuity, or from which it could be judged whether the decline is temporary or other than temporary. These indicators include the inability to recover the carrying amount of the investment or the inability of the investee to maintain a level of  earnings that would be appropriate for the book value of the investment.

(Paragraph 131)

6.7    Fair value :

Is the amount for which an asset could be exchanged between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s length transaction. It is indicated by the market value.

(Paragraph 132)

6.8    Preferred shares :

Is a class of shares that has preference over common shares. Preferred shares may vest their holders with priority in receiving a certain dividend and/or in recovering their paid-up capital upon liquidation, or with any other benefits.

(Paragraph 133)


Analytical Comparative Study

 

                                                                                            Main topic : The Scope of standard

The title of standard : Standard on accounting for investments

                                       using equity method                                                                            Sub- topic :

 

Standards approved in

 Saudi Arabia

Standards approved in some of GCC Countries (International standards)

Comparison

Conclusion

Proposed statements

Reasons

- This standard identifies the requirements for measurement, recognition, presentation and disclosure of investments, that give the investing business enterprise the ability to exercise significant influence over the financial and operating policies of the investee, irrespective of the size or legal form of the investor.

This standard should be applied in accounting by an investor for investments in associates. An associate is an enterprise in which the investor has significant influence and which is neither a subsidiary nor joint venture of the investor.

The two standards agree in that, the scope is limited to the investments that give the investing company the ability to exercise significant influence over the financial and operating policies of the investee.

However the scope of Saudi standard is more specific and more clear, because it identifies more clearly the matters that are not covered by the scope of  the standard.

Limited difference

- This standard identifies the requirements for measurement, recognition, presentation and disclosure of investments, that give the investing business enterprise the ability to exercise significant influence over the financial and operating policies of the investee, irrespective of the size or legal form of the investor.

The Saudi standard is more specific, with respect to its scope therefore it is suggested to be used as basis for formulation of proposed text.

- This standard does not apply to investments accounted for under the standard on Consolidated Financial Statements nor standard on Accounting for Investments in Securities. Also it does not apply to enterprises whose investments is treated according to specialized accounting standards approved by SOCPA including enterprises whose sole purpose is investment in securities.

 

 

- This standard does not apply to investments accounted for under the standard on Consolidated Financial Statements nor standard on Accounting for Investments in Securities. Also it does not apply to enterprises whose investments is treated according to specialized accounting standards approved by GCCAAO including enterprises  whose sole purpose is investment in securities.

 

- The paragraphs of this standard shall be read in the context of the explanations in the study accompanying the standard , and within the framework of the objectives and concepts of financial accounting approved by SOCPA and the General presentation and Disclosure standard.

 

 

- The paragraphs of this standard shall be read in the context of the conceptual framework of financial accounting and the General Presentation and Disclosure Standard approved by GCCAAO.

 

- This standard applies only to material investment items.

 

 

- This standard applies only to material investment items.

 

 


Analytical Comparative Study

 

                                                                                  Main topic : The Objective

The title of standard : Standard on accounting for investments             Sub- topic :

                                       Using equity method                                                                                                                                               

 

Standards approved in

 Saudi Arabia

Standards approved in some of GCC Countries (International standards)

Comparison

Conclusion

Proposed statements

Reasons

- The objective of this standard is to identify the basis and procedures to be followed for the use of the equity method and the underlying requirements for presentation and disclosure for the financial statements to fairly present the financial position of the investor and the results of its operations.

- The objective of this standard is to identify the basis and procedures to be followed in apply in the equity method in accounting for the investment in associate companies, and indicating how investments will be accounted for in the consolidated and separate financial statements of the investor enterprise that uses equity method.

The two standard agree that, the objective of the standard is to identify the basis and procedures to be followed for the use of the equity method on accounting for investment in associates and to identify also the requirements for presentation and disclosure related to this type of investments.

Agreed

- The objective of this standard is to identify the basis and procedures to be followed for the use of the equity method and the underlying requirements for presentation and disclosure for the financial statements to fairly present the financial position of the investor and the results of its operations.

It is suggested to use the text provided in Saudi standard as basis of the proposed text, because it is more clear, specific and inclusive and consistent with other standards approved by GCCAAO.

Analytical Comparative Study

                                                                                  Main topic : Measurement and recognition

The title of standard : Standard on accounting for

                                        investments using equity method                              Sub- topic :

                                                                                                                                       

Standards approved in

 Saudi Arabia

Standards approved in some of GCC Countries (International standards)

Comparison

Conclusion

Proposed statements

Reasons

- The investment should be measured and recognized at cost at the date of acquisition. Cost includes the purchase price as well as all associated acquisition costs incurred.

- Under the equity method, the investment is initially recorded at cost and the carrying amount is increased or decreased to recognize the investor's share of the profits or losses of the investee after the date of acquisition. Distributions received from an investee reduce the carrying amount of the investment. Adjustment to the carrying amount may also be necessary for alterations in the investor's proportionate interest in the investee arising from changes in the investee's equity that have not been included in the income statement. Such changes include those arising from the revaluation of property, plant, equipment and investments, from foreign exchange translation differences and from the adjustment of differences arising on business combinations.

- If an associate has outstanding cumulative preferred shares, held by outside interests, the investor computes its share of profits or losses after adjusting for the preferred dividends, whether or not the dividend have been declared.

-  If, under the equity method, an investor's share of losses of an associate equals or exceeds the carrying amount of an investment, the investor ordinarily discontinues including its share of further losses. The investment is reported at nil value. Additional losses are provided for to the extent that the investor has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate to satisfy obligations of the associate that the investor has guaranteed or otherwise committed. If the associate subsequently reports profits, the investor resumes including its share of those profits only after its share of the profits equals the share of net losses not recognized.

 There is an agreement with respect to the general procedures in the two standards, although there is some difference in formulation.

The Saudi standard is more clear and inclusive for the following :

1.  The Saudi  standard text indicates measurement basis on acquisition date and on any subsequent date.

2. It indicates the difference between the cost of investment and the envestor's share in net assets of the investee.

3. It indicates clearly and specify how profits, gains and losses on intercompany transactions between the investor and the investee, be treated.

Limited difference

- The investment should be measured and recognized at cost at the date of acquisition. Cost includes the purchase price as well as all associated acquisition costs incurred.

 As Saudi standard text is more clear and inclusive than that of the international standard, it is suggest that text as basis for the formulation of proposed text.

- The investment should be measured and recorded in the periods which follow its acquisition date, at its historical cost adjusted by the investor’s share of the investee’s net income (loss) and dividends.

- The difference between the cost of the investment and the investor’s share in the book value of the net assets of the investee as at the investment date, should be amortized over the remaining useful life of the assets of the investee which caused such a difference. Goodwill, if any, should be amortized over the lesser of the estimated period of benefit, or 20 years from the date of its establishment.

 

- The investment should be measured and recorded in the periods which follow its acquisition date, at its historical cost adjusted by the investor’s share of the investee’s net income (loss) and dividends.

- The difference between the cost of the investment and the investor’s share in the book value of the net assets of the investee as at the investment date, should be amortized over the remaining useful life of the assets of the investee which caused such a difference. Goodwill, if any, should be amortized over the lesser of the estimated period of benefit, or 20 years from the date of its establishment.

The investing enterprise’s share in the investee’s net income (loss) should be recognized on a timely basis after the elimination of preferred shares and its dividends, (if any).

 

 

The investing enterprise’s share in the investee’s net income (loss) should be recognized on a timely basis after the elimination of preferred shares and its dividends, (if any).

 

Unrealized gains or losses on intercompany transact-ions between the investing enterprise and the investee should be eliminated based on the percentage of equity and the investment balance should be adjusted accordingly.

 

 

Unrealized gains or losses on inter company transact-ions between the investing enterprise and the investee should be eliminated based on the percentage of equity and the investment balance should be adjusted accordingly.

 

Gains or losses on sale of the investment shares to a third party should be recognized when sold.  Gains or losses should equal the difference between the selling price and the carrying amount of the shares sold at the selling date.

 

Gains or losses on sale of the investment shares to a third party should be recognized when sold.  Gains or losses should equal the difference between the selling price and the carrying amount of the shares sold at the selling date.

 

Other than temporary decline in investment value should be recognized when occurred. Losses resulting from such a decline should be recognized in the income of the period in which the other than-temporary decline has occurred, and the investment value should be adjusted accordingly.

 

 

 

Other than temporary decline in investment value should be recognized when occurred. Losses resulting from such a decline should be recognized in the income of the period in which the other than-temporary decline has occurred, and the investment value should be adjusted accordingly.

 

 


Analytical Comparative Study

                                                                        Main topic : Measurement and recognition

The title of standard : Standard on accounting for

                                        investments using equity method        Sub- topic : Other than temporary decline in investment.

                                                                                                                                       

Standards approved in

 Saudi Arabia

Standards approved in some of GCC Countries (International standards)

Comparison

Conclusion

Proposed statements

Reasons

Other than temporary decline in investment value should be recognized when occurred. Losses resulting from such a decline should be recognized in the income of the period in which the other than-temporary decline has occurred, and the investment value should be adjusted accordingly.

Investment value shall be reduced to include other than temporary decline in the value. This reeducation shall be performed for each investment individually.

The two standards agree with respect to the treatment of other than temporary decline in investment value, by adjusting the investment value by the amount of that decline. The Saudi standard indicates clearly, that such decline should be treated as a loss in the result of the period in which it occurred.

Limited difference

Other than temporary decline in investment value should be recognized when occurred. Losses resulting from such a decline should be recognized in the income of the period in which the other than-temporary decline has occurred, and the investment value should be adjusted accordingly.

Saudi standard text is more clear and inclusive.


Analytical Comparative Study

                                                                        Main topic : Measurement and recognition

The title of standard : Standard on accounting for

                                        investments using equity method        Sub- topic : Different financial periods.

                                                                                                                                       

Standards approved in

 Saudi Arabia

Standards approved in some of GCC Countries (International standards)

Comparison

Conclusion

Proposed statements

Reasons

 If the financial period of an investee and investor is different, the latest prepared financial statements of the investee should be used to determine the investing enterprise’s share in the income or losses of the investee.

- The most recent available financial statements of the associate are used by the investor in applying the equity method, they are usually drawn up to the same date as the financial statements of the investor. When the reporting dates of the investor and the associate are different, the associate often prepares, for the use of the investor, statements as at the same date as the financial statements of the investor. When it is impracticable to do this, financial statements drawn up to a different reporting date may be used. The consistency principle dictates that the length of the reporting periods, and any difference in the reporting dates, are consistent from period to period.

-  When financial statements with a different reporting date are used, adjustments are made for the effects of any significant events or transactions between the investor and the associate that occur between the date of the associate's financial statements and the date of the investor's financial statements.

The two standards agree that, if the financial periods are different, the latest prepared financial statements of the investee should be used to determine the investing enterprise's share in the income and losses of the investee. However the international standard adds that necessary adjustments should be made for the effects of any significant events or transactions between the investor and investee during the period falling between the dates of preparation of financial statements of the two entities. The Saudi standard did not consider this matter, although it may be implicitly understood.

Limited difference

 If the financial period of an investee and investor is different, the latest prepared financial statements of the investee should be used to determine the investing enterprise’s share in the income or losses of the investee. Mostly the investee prepares its financial statements concurrent to those of the investor for the purpose of  being use by investor. If this became impracticable, the difference between the financial periods of the two entities must be regular between each period and another.

 Necessary adjustments should made for the effects resulting from significant events and transactions occurring between the investor and investee during the period falling between the dates of preparation of financial statements of the two entities, if such dates are different.

The proposed text includes both texts, in order to be clear and inclusive.

 

 


Analytical Comparative Study

                                                                        Main topic : Measurement and recognition

The title of standard : Standard on accounting for

                                        investments using equity method        Sub- topic : Discontinue applying the equity method

                                                                                                                                       

Standards approved in

 Saudi Arabia

Standards approved in some of GCC Countries (International standards)

Comparison

Conclusion

Proposed statements

Reasons

 If the equity method ceases to be applied due to loss of the ability to significantly influence and upon the application of another method (i.e. fair value), the carrying value of the investment at the cessation date should be considered as a basis for the application of the new method and the investment value shall not be adjusted retroactively.

 

 An investor should discontinue the use of the equity method from the date that :

a. It ceases to have significant influence in an associate but retains, either in whole or in part, its investment; or

b. The use of the equity method is no longer appropriate because the associate operates under severe long-term restrictions that significantly impair its ability to transfer funds to the investor.

The carrying amount of the investment at that date should be regarded as cost thereafter.

The international standard identify the dates on which the investor should discontinue the use of the equity method. This matter was not addressed by the Saudi standard. The two standards agree that, the carrying value of the investment at the cessation date be considered as a basis for the application of new method.

Limited difference

The investing enterprise should discontinue applying the method in the following cases :

 A. When the investing enterprise is unable to exercise significant influence over the investee’s financial and operating policies.

B.  If the investment value is reduced to zero as a result of the continuous losses of the investee (unless the investing enterprise has guaranteed the obligations of the investee or has otherwise committed to provide further financial support for the investee).  Application of the equity method will be resumed if the envestee attained net profits equal to the net loss, during cessation period.

If the equity method ceases to be applied due to loss of the ability to significantly influence and upon the application of another method (i.e. fair value), the carrying value of the investment at the cessation date should be considered as a basis for the application of the new method and the investment value shall not be adjusted retroactively.

Proposed text includes both texts, in order to include the cases in which the investor ceases to use the equity method, and measurement basis that should be followed in such cases.

 


Analytical Comparative Study

                                                                        Main topic : Measurement and recognition

The title of standard : Standard on accounting for

                                        investments using equity method        Sub- topic : Applying the equity method for the first time

                                                                                                                                       

Standards approved in

 Saudi Arabia

Standards approved in some of GCC Countries (International standards)

Comparison

Conclusion

Proposed statements

Reasons

When applying the equity method for the first time on an investment that was previously accounted for on a basis other than the equity method, a retroactive adjustment to the investor’s investment balances, retained earnings and results of operations should be made (for the current and all presented previous years).

The international accounting standard did not address how the equity method will appied for the first time.

The international standard did not include any text addressing this case.

Significant difference

 When applying the equity method for the first time on an investment that was previously accounted for on a basis other than the equity method, a retroactive adjustment to the investor’s investment balances, retained earnings and results of operations should be made (for the current and all presented previous years).

No text in the international standard. The Saudi standard text is clear and inclusive. 


Analytical Comparative Study

                                                                        Main topic : Presentation

The title of standard : Standard on accounting for

                                        investments using equity method                    Sub- topic :

                                                                                                                                       

Standards approved in

 Saudi Arabia

Standards approved in some of GCC Countries (International standards)

Comparison

Conclusion

Proposed statements

Reasons

- The investor’s investment accounted for under the equity method should be disclosed as a single line item on the balance sheet  under non-current assets.

- The investor’s share of investee’s net income (loss) should be disclosed as a single line item on the income statement of the investee (after the elimination of profits or losses on inter-company transactions) following profit from transactions. The investor’s share in extraordinary profits and/or losses should be shown under extraordinary items. Prior year adjustments should be presented in the statement of retained earnings.

- Losses arising from other than temporary decline in investment value should be shown within losses in the statement of income for the period during which the decline has occurred.

- Any investment in an associate should be accounted for in consolidated financial statements under the equity method except when the investment is acquired and held exclusively with a view to its subsequent disposal in the near future, in which case should be accounted for using cost method.

- Any investment in an associate that is included in the separate financial statements of an investor that issues consolidated financial statements should be accounted for in the separate financial statement of the investor enterprise according to one of the following options :

a. The method used in accounting for the investment in consolidated financial statements whether the cost or the equity method.

b.  By cost or by value adjusted after re-evaluation according to IAS25.

 However, the preparation of consolidated financial statement in itself does not prevent preparation of separate financial statements for the investee enterprise.

Investments in associates accounted for using the equity method should be classified as long-term assets and disclosed as a separate item in the balance sheet. The investor's share of the profits or losses of such investments should be disclosed as a separate item in the income statement. The investor's share's share of any extraordinary or prior period items should also be separately disclosed.

The international standard includes two alternative options for the presentation of the data of investment in associate, in the financial statements of the investing enterprise. Existence of presentation alternatives upsets comparability of the financial statements of the various entities. The Saudi standard successfully avoided this matter.

Significant difference

- The investor’s investment accounted for under the equity method should be disclosed as a single line item on the balance sheet  under non-current assets.

- The investor’s share of investee’s net income (loss) should be disclosed as a single line item on the income statement of the investee (after the elimination of profits or losses on inter-company transactions) following profit from transactions. The investor’s share in extraordinary profits and/or losses should be shown under extraordinary items. Prior year adjustments should be presented in the statement of retained earnings.

- Losses arising from other than temporary decline in investment value should be shown within losses in the statement of income for the period during which the decline has occurred.

 

Saudi standard text provide for the purpose of comparability between the financial statements of the various entities. The text is also clear and inclusive. Therefore it is suggested to be used as basis for formulation of proposed text.

 


Analytical Comparative Study

                                               Main topic : Disclosure

The title of standard : Standard on accounting for

                                        investments using equity method        Sub- topic :    

                                                                                                                                       

Standards approved in

 Saudi Arabia

Standards approved in some of GCC Countries (International standards)

Comparison

Conclusion

Proposed statements

Reasons

 The following should be disclosed:

- The accounting policies for investment according to the equity method.

- Reasons for not applying of the equity method where the investor holds 20% - 50% of the net assets of the investee.

- Name of the investee in which the investor exercises significant influence, percentage of ownership in the voting capital of that investee, and the fair value of each investment at the date of preparation of the financial statements.

- Any transfer of other transferable securities to ordinary shares if such transfer has significant influence on the investor’s shares in earnings and losses of the investees.

In additional to the above mentioned presentation methods the following disclosures should be made :

a. an appropriate listing and description of significant associates including the proportion of ownership interest and, if different, the proportion of voting power held, and  

b. the methods used to account for such investments.

 

Saudi standard text included the requirements of disclosure for investments that is accounted for using the equity method, in a way that is more clear and inclusive than that adopted in other GCC Countries.

 

 

Significant difference

 The following should be disclosed:

- The accounting policies for investment according to the equity method.

- Reasons for not applying of the equity method where the investor holds 20% - 50% of the net assets of the investee.

- Name of the investee in which the investor exercises significant influence, percentage of ownership in the voting capital of that investee, and the fair value of each investment at the date of preparation of the financial statements.

- Any transfer of other transferable securities to ordinary shares if such transfer has significant influence on the investor’s shares in earnings and losses of the investees.

 

The Saudi standard text is more clear and inclusive and consistent with the standard of presentation and general disclosure approved by GCCAAO.

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cases and Practical Examples for the Application of

The Standard on Accounting for Investments

Using the Equity Method


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First Case :

Assume that , the company (m) purchased, on 01-01-2003,30% of the ordinary shaves of the company (p) paying a cash amount equal to 268,000 monetary units. The carrying and fair values of the assets and liabilities of the company (p) on 01-01-2002 were as follow:

 

 

Carrying value monetary unit

Fair value monetary unit

Cash

30,000

30,000

Receivables (net)

120,000

120,000

Inventory

240,000

250,000

Lands

150,000

200,000

Machinery and equipments (net)

400,000

500,000

Total assets

940,000

1100,000

Liabilities

(240,000)

(240,000)

Net assets (equity)

700,000

860,000

The following information's became available to you :

1. Profits (losses) of company (p) for the years 2002, 2003 and 2004 and dividends made by company (p) for the same period was as follow :

 

2002

2003

2004

Net profit (loss)

90,000

50,000

(10,000)

Dividends

20,000

30,000

10,000

 

2. The inventory existing on the date of purchase is completely sold, during the year 2002, to a third party.

3.  From the date of investment 10 year were remaining from useful life of the machinery and equipments and will be depreciated by the straight – line method.

4.  According to the standard on accounting for investment using the equity method, goodwill shall not be amortized.

5.  During the year 2003, company (p) sold a inventory to company (m) against a price exceeding its cost by 6,000 monetary units and up to the end of the year 2003, this inventory was not sold to a third party.


The question :

Indicate the accounting treatment for the investment of company (m) in company (p) for the years 2002,2003,2004, assuming that, the 30% has given the company (m) significant influence on the financial and operational policies of the company (p) and consequently the equity method should applied in accordance with the proposed standard on accounting for investments using the equity method.

Solution :

In order to apply the equity method in accordance with the standard, the solution will be in steps as follows :

First step :

Calculating the difference between investment cost and the carrying value of company (m)'s investment share in company (p)'s net assets.

Share in company (p)'s net assets

 Monetary units

Investment cost paid against 30% of company (p)

=

268,000

Carrying value of investment share 30%X700,000

=

210,000

Difference (Excess of paid cost over carrying value of investment share

=

58,000

 

Second step :

Allocation of the above calculated difference over the assets that have carrying value different from its fair value (considering the difference as resulting due to the difference between the carrying value and the fair value). In this example the difference resulting from each of the inventory, lands, machinery and  equipments, shall be allocated as follow :

Item

Carrying value

Fair value

The difference credit/debit

30% of difference credit/debit

Inventory

240,000

250,000

10,000

3,000

Lands

150,000

200,000

50,000

15,000

Machinery and equipotent

400,000

500,000

100,000

30,000

Allocated difference

 

 

 

48,000

As the total difference is 58,000 monetary unit, then the remaining difference which is equal to 10,000 monetary units represents the share of the investing enterprise (m) in the total goodwill, not recorded, of the company (p).

Goodwill may be calculated in another way, as it represents the excess of investment cost over the fair value of net assets purchased :

 

Monetary Unit

Investment cost

=

268,000

Fair value of purchased share = 30% X 860,000

=

258,000

Investing enterprise's share in goodwill

=

10,000

It should be noted that , both company (m) and company (p) shall not record the increase in the value of inventory , lands, machinery or goodwill resulting from investments, in its record according to the equity method. However, it will show these items within the value of the investment account. Hence , the investment account appeared in its value that include the unamortized difference because , according the equity method the investment account should be presented in the balance sheet without recording the individual assets and liabilities of the investee.

But the investing enterprise maintains the informations related to the difference and its allocation between the various assets, in the working papers of the official accounting system. The informations will be  used on preparing the financial statements because, as will be seen later, it effects both the financial position and the income.

Third step :  Amortization of the amortization of the difference :

According to the above indications of this example the difference allocated on the various assets (including goodwill) is amortized over the remaining estimated period of benefit of these assets. The increase in the value of inventory is considered as an increase in the cost of inventory sold during the year in which that inventory is sold. The following schedule illustrate amortization of the difference according to the information given in the example :

 

Item

 

Difference

Estimated period

of  benefit

 

Amortization

 

 Credit(Debit)

 

 2002

2003

2004

Inventory

3,000

Sale during 2002

3,000

-

-

Lands

15,000

Not identified

-

-

-

Machinery and equipments

30,000

10 year

3,000

3,000

3,000

Goodwill

10,000

5 year

2,000

2,000

2,000

Total

58,000

 

8,000

5,000

5,000

Note that land share from the difference (15,000 monetary units) is not amortized because the land is not depreciable. It is also noted that the share of all mentioned assets from the difference is a positive amount because the fair value of the assets provided in the example is larger than its carrying amount.

If the carrying amount of one(or more) of these assets was larger than the fair value, then the difference allocated to that asset (assets) will appear negative. If the fair value of the inventory is less than the carrying amount, this will be considered as a reduction to cost of inventory sold (from the view of the investing company) in the year in which the inventory is sold. If the fair value of machinery and equipments is less than the carrying amount, this will lead to reduce the expense of depreciation of machinery and equipments (from the view of the investing enterprise) by the amount of the annual depreciation of the share of machinery and equipment form the difference (negative), and so for any depreciable asset.

Forth step : Application of the equity method in the records of the investing enterprise (m) :

The investing enterprise performs journal entries in accordance with the equity method provided in this standard. It shall record the investment at cost on its date and hence, performs necessary entries to record its share in profits or losses of  the investee and also its share of dividends declared (or paid) by the investee enterprise. This will lead to adjusting its share in the annual profits (losses) realized by the investee until all difference is amortized.

In this example the company (m) shall perform the following entries during the years 2002, 2003 and 2004.

 


 

Description

Year 2002

Year 2003

Year 2004

Recording investment in company (m) on 01.01.2002.

Investment in company (p) 268,000

Cash account                        268,000

-

-

Recording company(p)'s share from dividends of company (p).

Cash account      6,000

     Investment in company (p)  6,000

                (30% X 2000)

Cash account    9,000

   Investment in company (p) 9000

   (30% X 3000)

Cash account    3,000

Investment in company (p) 3,000

   (30% X 10,000)

Recording company (m)'s share form profits (losses) of company (p).

Investment in company p 27,000

   Investment income in    27,000

   company (p)

    (30 % X 90,000)

Investment in         15,000

company (p)

    Investment income     15,000

     in company (p)

(30% X 50,000)

Investment income   3,000

In company (p)

Investment in company (p)

(30% X 10,000)      3,000

Recording total amortization of the difference.

Investment income   8,000

in company (p)

    Investment in         8,000

     company (p)

Investment income  5,0000

in company (p)

    Investment in     5,000

     company (p)

Investment income   5,0000

in company (p)

Investment in                      5,000

company (p)

Elimination of company (m)'s share from the profits recorded by the company (p) on inventory sold to the company(m) during the year 2003.

-

Investment income   1,800

In company (p)

     Investment in      1,800

      Company (p)

       (30% X 6,000)

-

The following is an analysis to the effect on the balance of the investment account in the company (p) and company (m)'s share from the net profits (losses) of the company (p), as a result of events, operations and transactions performed by the investee company (p) and recorded by the investing company (m) according to the equity method :

 


Effect on the balance of investment account

 

 

2002

2003

2004

Balance at the beginning of year

268,000

281,000

280,200

Less company (m)'s share in dividend of company (p).

(6,000)

(9,000)

(3,000)

Plus (less) company (m)'s share in company (p)'s profits (losses).

27,000

15,000

(3,000)

Less company (m)'s share in the profit of exchanged inventory.

-

(1,800)

-

Less total amortization of  the difference

(8,000)

(5,000)

(5,000)

Balance at the end of the year.

281,000

280,200

269,200

 


Effect on the investing enterprise (m)'s share in the investee enterprise (p)'s net profits (losses)

 

 

2002

2003

2004

Company (m)'s share in company (p)'s profits (losses).

27,000

150,000

(3,000)

Less company (m)'s share in the profit of exchanged inventory

-

(1,800,)

-

Less total of depreciation of the difference

(8,000)

(5,000)

(5,000)

Company (m)'s net share in company (p)'s profits (losses).

91,000

8,200

(8,000)

 

The balance of investment account shall be presented in the balance sheet statement of the company (m) at the end of each year as one line item to be called (investments in associates). The investing company (m)'s net share in the investee company (p)'s net profits (losses) shall be presented as single line item on the income statement of the company (m) following profit from transactions, it should be considered that, the investor's share in extraordinary items (if any) of  the investee should be shown under extraordinary items in the income statement. The investing company share in prior years adjustments in the investee companies should be presented in the statement of retained earnings.


Second Case : Applying the equity method for the first time :

On 01-01-2002, the company (x) paid 7 millions monetary units against 10% of the carrying amount of net assets of the company (y) which equal 60 million monetary units. The excess of the investment cost over company (x) 's share in net assets of company (y), is considered as goodwill. The investment was classified within financial securities available for sale  and accounted for using fair value method. Assume that, the company(x) paid, on 01-01-2004, an amount of 15 million monetary units against additional 20% of the carrying amount of the net assets of the company (y) which amounted, on this date, to 70 million monetary units.

Therefore the company (x) became owning 30% (10% + 20%) of the current amount of the net assets of the company (y). Assume that company (x) decided to transfer from the fair value method to the equity method to account for it investments in the company (y) starting from 01-01-2004, as the conditions for appling the equity method are achieved. The following are additional information on the two companies for the years 2002, 2003, and 2004.

Data of the company (x) :

1.  The credit balance of unrealized gains accounts from financial securities available for sale which represents the investment in company (y) on 30.12.2003, is 2,000,000 monetary units, (within equity ownership). The same amounts appeared, on the opposite side as debit balance for the account of change in the fair value of financial securities available for sale (an account opposite to the account of investment in the company (y) within assets).

2.  Net profits and dividends received from the company (y), for the years 2002,2003, and 2004 were as follow :

 

2002

2003

2004

Net income (including dividends received from company (y)

50,000,000

80,000,000

100,000,000

Dividends received from the company (y)

400,000

600,000

2,000,000

Data of company (y) :

Net profits of company (y) for the years 2002,203, and 2004 reached an amount of  10 millions monetary units, 20 millions monetary units and 25 millions monetary units respectively.

According to this standard, it is observed that when the company transfer from using the fair value method to the equity method, the company (x) performs a retroactive adjustment to the investor's investment balances, retained earnings and results of  operations for all presented years as if the equity method was followed during those years. Thus the company (x), in this case, performs the following entries on the date of transference to the equity method :

On 01.01.2004 (date of transference) :

1. Investment in company (y)                7,000,000

            Investment in financial securities                         7,000,000

            available for sale

            (reclassification of first investment which is equal to 10% , so as to be consistent which the equity method).

2. Investment in company (y)                            16,600,000

            Cash account                                                                15,000,000

            Retained earnings                                                          1,600,000

(Recording the purchase of additional 20% of the net assets of the company (y) and adjustment of retained earnings by the amount of accumulated effect resulting from transference from the fair value method to the equity method).

The accumulated effect is calculated, for adjustment of retained earning , as follow :

 

2002

2003

Total

Company (x)'s share in the net income of company (y) (10%).

1,000,000

2,000,000

3,000,000

Less :

Goodwill amortization resulting from

First investment :

7,000,000 – (10% X 60,000,000) ÷ 5 =

(200,000)

(200,000)

(400,000)

Received dividends

(400,000)

(600,000)

(1,000,000)

Total adjustments of prior years

400,000

1,200,000

1,600,000

3.  Unrealized gains from financial                      2,000,000

     securities available for sale

                        Change in fair value of  financial                                     2,000,000

                        securities available for sale

30.12.2004 :

1.

Investment in company (y)

7,500,000

 

 

Income of investment in company (y)

 

7,500,000

(Recording company(x)'s share in company (y)'s net income for the year 2004, according to the equity method 25,000,000 X 30%).

2.

Cash account

2,000,000

 

 

Investment in company (y)

 

2,000,000

(recording the receiving of 2,000,000 monetary unit from the company (y) as dividends).

3.

Income of investment in company (y)

400,000

 

 

Investment in company (y)

 

400,000

(Recording the annual amortization of goodwill)

The annual amortization of goodwill is calculated as follow :

Amortization of the first investment goodwill + Amortization of additional investment goodwill.

(7,000,000 – (10% X 60,000,000

+

(15,000,000 – (20% X 70,000,000)

5

5

= 200,000 + 200,000  =  400,000 Monetary units.

Retroactive adjustment to investment balance in company(y), results of operations of company (x) and retained earnings of company (x), should be made as follow :

First : Investment in company (x) :

 

2002

2003

2004

Balance at beginning of the year

7,000,000

7,400,000

23,600,000(*)

Company (x)'s share in company (y)'s

1,000,000

2,000,000

7,500,000

Net income

 

 

 

Less :

Amortization of goodwill resulting from first investment :

First investment :

(7,000,000 – (10% X 60,000,000) ÷ 5)

(2,000,000)

(2,000,000)

(4,000,0000)

Received dividends

(400,000)

(600,000)

(2,000,000)

Total adjustment for prior years

7,400,000

8,600,000

28,700,000

 

 

 

 

(*) 8,600,000 + 15,000,000 (additional investment) = 23,600,000

Second : Company (x)'s  results of operations :

 

2002

2003

2004

Net income (including received dividends)

(*)50,000,000

80,000,000

100,000,000

+ Company (x)'s share in company (y)'s

1,000,000

2,000,000

7,500,000

Net income

 

 

 

- Dividend received from company (y)

(400,000)

(600,000)

(2,000,000)

- Annual depreciation of goodwill

(200,000)

(200,000)

(400,000)

Net income after begin adjusted accounting to the equity method

50,400,000

81,200,000

(105,100,000

 

 

 

 

 

Third : Retained carrying (company (x):

 

2002

2003

2004

Retained earnings at the beginning of period

500,000,000

540,000,000

600,000

+ The year's profits (see the results of operations above)

50,400,000

81,200,000

105,100,000

- Dividents (estimated)

(10,400,000)

(2,200,000)

65,100,000)

Retained earnings at end of period

540,000,000

600,000,000

640,000,000

 

 

 

 

 

(**) Estimated number