IFRS 18 - Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements

Presentation and Disclosure Under IFRS 18

IFRS 18 emphasizes the importance of transparency and clarity in the presentation and disclosure of revenue in financial statements. Below are the key aspects related to presentation and disclosure under this standard:

1. Presentation of Revenue

  • Separate Line Items: Revenue should be presented as a separate line item in the statement of profit or loss, distinguishing it from other income.
  • Performance Obligations: If applicable, revenue should be disaggregated based on performance obligations to provide a clear view of how revenue is earned.
  • Classification: Entities must classify revenue into categories that reflect how it is earned, allowing users to understand the different sources of revenue.

2. Disclosure Requirements

IFRS 18 mandates specific disclosures to enhance the understanding of revenue recognition practices and their effects on financial statements. These disclosures include:

  • Nature of Revenue: A description of the nature of the revenue recognized, including the significant products or services offered and the timing of revenue recognition.
  • Performance Obligations: Information about performance obligations, including when the obligations are satisfied, and details on contracts with customers.
  • Transaction Price: The amount of the transaction price allocated to each performance obligation, along with any variable consideration.
  • Contract Balances: Disclosure of contract assets and liabilities, including changes from the previous reporting period, providing insights into the entity's contracts with customers.
  • Significant Judgments: Entities must disclose significant judgments and estimates made in applying the revenue recognition principles, including any assumptions used to determine the transaction price or assess performance obligations.
  • Timing of Revenue Recognition: An explanation of how the timing of revenue recognition aligns with the transfer of control over goods or services.

3. Overall Impact

The enhanced presentation and disclosure requirements under IFRS 18 aim to provide users of financial statements with comprehensive and relevant information about an entity's revenue, enabling better decision-making and a deeper understanding of financial performance. By promoting transparency, IFRS 18 helps build trust among stakeholders, including investors, analysts, and regulatory bodies.