The impact of implementation of IFRS on UK companies. a case study of Dissertation

The impact of implementation of IFRS on UK companies. a case study of M&S - Dissertation Example The published papers with reference to the implementation by the accounting bodies, institutions and the journals have been analyzed for this purpose. In addition to the company specific impact of implementation of IFRS, the effect of changes in the accounting policies has also been analyzed generally in a comprehensive manner. Adoption of the fair value model of accounting as against the established traditional accounting practices based on the historic cost method would be counterproductive especially in the case of intangible or financial assets with huge fluctuations in valuations on day to day basis. It is concluded that as the implementation of IFRS results into inflation of profits, the predominant causes of such overstatement shall be dealt with to avoid its negative effects on the corporate governance through national debate. Contents Page Introduction Research Aim Research Objectives Terms of Reference Background Literature Review Benefits of harmonisation or Reasons underl ying the adoption of IFRS in the UK and Europe Implications for UK Companies adopting IFRS The first time adoption of IFRS Research Methodology Analysis, Discussion and Findings Disclosure under IFRS Fair valuation Conclusions/Recommendations References Appendices Introduction International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has issued International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), and the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) of the IASB has issued interpretations for this purpose. International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) are considered a ‘principles-based’ set of standards establishing broad based rules rather than dictating specific treatments. All major countries have been moving towards IFRS regime and the implementations in different countries are at different stages. Many national and international institutions require public companies listed in the stock exchanges, banks and insurance companies to adopt IFRS for statu tory reports. In the near future, most of the companies and their subsidiaries worldwide are expected to be covered under IFRS. Apart from the listing requirements or statutory reporting, financial institutions lending to these companies, government bodies and national and international corporations stipulate compliance with IFRS to fulfill their obligations in respect of financial reporting for the purpose of approvals or licensing. Ian D Wright, Chairman of Financial Reporting Committee of the Institute of the Chartered Accounts of England and Wales said in 2002: "The Institute has supported the European Commission through a lengthy political process to see this Regulation come into effect because we believe passionately in the benefits to business of truly international accounting standards." (ICAEW, 2011) Convergence in financial reporting hinges on the consistency between the country accounting standards and IAS. In March 2004, the ASB issued a ‘Strategy for Convergence o f UK GAAP with IAS’. (CIMA, 2006) It is in this backdrop, the paper seeks to study and analyze the issues related to the impact of implementation of IFRS on UK companies and with reference to M&S in respect of the following: Research Questions 1. What are the impacts of implementation of IFRS generally and on statement of profits? 2. What are the impacts of the disclosure under IFRS? 3. What is the impact of adoption of value model as against the historic cost model in the implementation of