Can the FASB Regain Its Mojo?

Abstract

In recent years, the FASB has concerned itself with simplification of accounting standards, rather than prioritizing the improvement of financial reporting for the benefit of investors. While companies grow more complex and larger, and place more investments in intangible assets, financial reporting has not kept pace. This is making financial statements less relevant than ever. In its nearly 50-year history, FASB has responded well to the needs of investors when circumstances demanded an effective response. This was evidenced by its relatively speedy, experimental approach to inflation accounting in the late 1970s. Contrast that to its slow-motion response on intangible asset recognition and disclosures, a project languishing over 20 years. FASB's agenda has become clogged as the board devotes more of its attention and resources to the Private Company Council's needs. An open question: can the FASB regain its former intense focus on investor needs and put aside simplification efforts?