Fair value measurement is the process of determining the value of an asset or liability based on the price that would be received to sell it in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. This concept is important for financial reporting purposes as it provides users of financial statements with relevant and reliable information about the value of an entity's assets and liabilities.
Impairment, on the other hand, refers to a decrease in the value of an asset that is considered to be other than temporary. When an asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount, it is considered impaired and the entity must recognize an impairment loss in its financial statements. Impairment testing is required for assets such as goodwill, intangible assets, and property, plant, and equipment to ensure that their carrying amounts are not overstated.
The fair value measurement and impairment concept are closely related as impairment testing often involves comparing the fair value of an asset to its carrying amount to determine if an impairment loss should be recognized. By using fair value measurements, entities can more accurately assess the value of their assets and determine if impairment is necessary. This helps to ensure that financial statements provide a true and fair view of an entity's financial position and performance.
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Google Gemini AI
Jun 16
Fair Value Measurement
Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. It is a widely used accounting concept for valuing assets and liabilities that are not traded in an active market.
Methods for Fair Value Measurement:
- Market approach: Uses observable market prices for similar assets or liabilities. - Income approach: Discounts future cash flows expected from the asset or liability. - Cost approach: Estimates the cost to replace or recreate the asset or liability.
Impairment Concept
Impairment is a loss in the value of an asset that is not expected to be recovered. Under accounting standards, companies are required to test their assets for impairment when there is evidence of a decline in value.
Steps Involved in Impairment Testing:
1. Identify triggering events: Circumstances or changes in market conditions that suggest impairment may have occurred. 2. Determine fair value: Using the methods described above to estimate the current value of the asset. 3. Compare fair value to carrying amount: If fair value is less than carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized. 4. Allocate the impairment loss: To the specific asset or group of assets that have been impaired.
Consequences of Impairment:
- Reduces the carrying amount of the asset to its fair value. - Results in an expense or loss on the income statement. - May trigger additional disclosures or other accounting adjustments.