The reasons for change
- IAS 31 focused exclusively on the structure of the arrangement. If a separate vehicle existed, the arrangement was classified as a ‘jointly controlled entity’.
- Under IAS 31, investors could choose to account for jointly controlled entities using either the proportionate consolidation or the equity method of accounting. However, the IASB now believes that proportionate consolidation is not appropriate where an entity lacks direct rights or obligations to or for the arrangement’s underlying assets or liabilities.
Key attributes of IFRS 11
- The classification of a joint arrangement as either a joint operation or a joint venture will be based on a set of specific tests and not solely on whether a separate vehicle exists.
- Classification will dictate the accounting treatment of the arrangements. Joint ventures will be accounted for under the equity method and only for joint operations will an investor account for its shares of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses.
- These tests will require more judgement to be applied than was required under IAS 31.
What this means in practice
Many, but not all, jointly controlled entities under IAS 31 will be classified as joint ventures under IFRS 11. All joint arrangements will need to be re-assessed on transition to IFRS 11.
Sectors that use joint arrangements to a signifcant degree and relied extensively on proportionate consolidation accounting will be most directly affected. Specifically, some activities that previously appeared as gross amounts in the financial statements may now appear on a one-line basis—notably decreasing revenue, gross assets and gross liabilities.
Effective date
Annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013.
Please contact your KPMG Accounting Advisory Services adviser for more information.