Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Investments in subsidiaries are held as fixed asset investments and are stated at cost less any provision for impairment. The Company prepares individual financial statements and does not prepare consolidated financial statements in accordance with the exemption available under FRS 102.
Quoted and unquoted investments held as part of the Company's investment portfolio are measured at fair value at each reporting date. Changes in fair value are recognised in the profit and loss account.
Interests in limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships ans scotish limited partnerships are held as fixed asset investments and are measured at fair value at each reporting date. Changes in fair value are recognised in the profit and loss account.
Loans advanced to investee companies and partnerships are recognised as financial assets and are classified as fixed asset investments. The loans are accounted for in accordance with the applicable requirements of FRS 102, having regard to their contractual terms.
Where loans are measured at fair value, changes in fair value are recognised in the profit and loss account. Interest income is recognised in the profit and loss account as it accrues.
The fair value of investments is determined using quoted market prices where available or, where investments are not quoted, using appropriate valuation techniques and information provided by the Company's appointed investment portfolio manager and other competent professionals
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash held at banks and on hand. Foreign currency monetary balances are translated into the Company's functional currency at the exchange rate prevailing at the reporting date. Exchange differences are recognised in the profit and loss account.
Loans from shareholders are recognised as financial liabilities and are accounted for in accordance with the contractual terms of the loans and the requirements of FRS 102. Interest payable is recognised in the profit and loss account as it accrues.
Financial assets are reviewed at each reporting date for indications of impairment where they are not measured at fair value through profit or loss. Any impairment loss identified is recognised in the profit and loss account.
Financial assets and liabilities are derecognised when the contractual rights or obligations expire or are discharged.