Last update 23/02/2020
Financial assets example – Accounting policy example
Financial assets are recognized initially at fair value, normally being the transaction price plus, in the case of financial assets not at fair value through profit or loss, directly attributable transaction costs. The subsequent measurement of financial assets depends on their classification, as set out below. The group derecognizes financial assets when the contractual rights to the cash flows expire or the financial asset is transferred to a third party.
Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method if the time value of money is significant. Gains and losses are recognized in income when the loans and receivables are derecognized or impaired and when interest is recognized using the effective interest method. This category of financial assets includes trade and other receivables.
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are carried on the balance sheet at fair value with gains or losses recognized in the income statement. Derivatives, other than those designated as effective hedging instruments, are classified as held for trading and are included in this category.
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments in an effective hedge
These derivatives are carried on the balance sheet at fair value. The treatment of gains and losses arising from revaluation is described below in the accounting policy for derivative financial instruments and hedging activities.
Held-to-maturity financial assets
Held-to-maturity financial assets are measured at amortized cost, using the effective interest method, less any impairment.
Available-for-sale financial assets
Available-for-sale financial assets are measured at fair value, with gains or losses recognized within other comprehensive income, except for impairment losses, and, for available-for-sale debt instruments, foreign exchange gains or losses, interest recognized using the effective interest method, and any changes in fair value arising from revised estimates of future cash flows, which are recognized in profit or loss.
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents are short-term highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash, are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value and generally have a maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition. Cash equivalents are classified as loans and receivables, held-to-maturity financial assets or available-for-sale financial assets.
Derived from BP Plc’s Financial Statements 2017
https://www.bp.com/en/global/corporate/investors/results-and-reporting/annual-report.html
See also: The IFRS Foundation
