Trade and other debtors / creditors
Trade and other debtors are recognised initially at transaction prices less attributable transaction costs. Trade and other creditors are recognised initially at transaction price plus attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition they are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses in the case of trade debtors. If the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, for example if payment is deferred beyond normal business terms, then it is measured at the present value of future payments discounted at a market rate of interest for a similar debt instrument.
Investments
Unlisted investments are initially recognised at transaction price, including any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, unlisted investments are measured at fair value at each reporting date, with changes in fair value recognised in the profit and loss account.
Fair value is determined by reference to the quoted market price at the balance sheet date. Where a reliable market price is not available, fair value is determined using valuation techniques appropriate to the instrument.
Dividends and other investment income are recognised in profit or loss when the company’s right to receive payment is established.
Investments in associates
Investments in associates accounted for in accordance with the cost model are recorded at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Investments in associates accounted for in accordance with the fair value model are initially recorded at the transaction price. At each reporting date, the investments are measured at fair value, with changes in fair value recognised in other comprehensive income/profit or loss. Where it is impracticable to measure fair value reliably without undue cost or effort, the cost model will be adopted. Dividends and other distributions received from the investment are recognised as income without regard to whether the distributions are from accumulated profits of the associate arising before or after the date of acquisition.
Investments in joint ventures
Investments in jointly controlled entities accounted for in accordance with the cost model are recorded at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Investments in jointly controlled entities accounted for in accordance with the fair value model are initially recorded at the transaction price. At each reporting date, the investments are measured at fair value, with changes in fair value recognised in other comprehensive income/profit or loss. Where it is impracticable to measure fair value reliably without undue cost or effort, the cost model will be adopted. Dividends and other distributions received from the investment are recognised as income without regard to whether the distributions are from accumulated profits of the joint venture arising before or after the date of acquisition.
Impairment of financial assets
Financial assets that are measured at cost and amortised cost are assessed at the end of each reporting period for objective evidence of impairment. If objective evidence of impairment is found an impairment loss is recognised within profit or loss.
For financial assets that are measured at amortised cost, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate.
For financial assets measured at cost less impairment, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the best estimate of the amount that the company would receive for the asset if it were to be sold at the balance sheet date.