Financial instruments are classified and accounted for according to the substance of the contractual arrangement, as either financial assets, financial liabilities or equity instruments. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the company after deducting all of its liabilities.
Financial instruments are recognised when the company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially measured at transaction price. Financial assets and financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less impairment where applicable.
Financial assets measured at amortised cost are assessed at each reporting date for objective evidence of impairment. An impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss when there is evidence that the carrying amount is not recoverable.
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the obligation is discharged, cancelled or expires. Financial assets are derecognised when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or are transferred and substantially all risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred.