Planned changes to the classification and disclosure of items in the profit and loss statement. Discussion on the exposure draft of a new international standard

Abstract

Purpose: The objective is to present selected changes slated for introduction through exposure draft ED/2019/7. The perspective adopted concerns the current classification and disclosure in the profit and loss statement. In addition, the authors indicate the differences between the new standard and the local accounting regulations.Methodology/approach: We used an analysis of legal regulations and a case study in the form of data transformation of entity X for three consecutive reporting periods.Findings: Mandatory separation of investments and financial activities, whose definition differs from those in national law and IAS/IFRS, represents the greatest challenge. Many items (including exchange rate differences, investment incomes and expenses) will be disclosed differently in the profit and loss statement, including being split between two or more categories.Practical implications: The identified differences between the local regulations and the new standard indicate the need to change how the accounting ledger is organized, including amendments in the information systems. It also calls for several educational events to be held by professional accounting organizations.Originality/value: The detailed identification of differences in the disclosure of profit and loss statements stem from the authors’ engagement in the European Financial Advisory Board’s (EFRAG) field test. The results indicate that the regulator must act to bring national law into line with the planned changes. The proposed changes will in-crease the quality of financial statements, including the relevance and comparability of financial information.