Intermediate Accounting: IFRS Edition, 2nd Edition

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After studying this chapter, you should be able to:

1. 1 Describe the characteristics of intangible assets.
2. 2 Identify the costs to include in the initial valuation of intangible assets.
3. 3 Explain the procedure for amortizing intangible assets.
4. 4 Describe the types of intangible assets.
5. 5 Explain the accounting issues for recording goodwill.
6. 6 Explain the accounting issues related to intangible asset impairments.
7. 7 Identify the conceptual issues related to research and development costs.
8. 8 Describe the accounting for research and development and similar costs.
9. 9 Indicate the presentation of intangible assets and related items.

Is This Sustainable?

Recently, companies are increasing their focus on sustainability issues. Companies like Alcatel Lucent (FRA), China Southern Power Grid Co. (CHN), and Clorox (USA) are implementing strategic initiatives such as fuel-spill control, use of recycled materials, and water conservation in efforts to support long-term objectives related to responsible management of resource use. Why the growing importance of sustainability? One important reason is that market participants are increasingly looking to invest in companies that are pursuing sustainability strategies.

For example, as indicated in the adjacent graph, sustainability investments in Europe have increased from below €10 trillion in 2005 to nearly €50 trillion in 2011. ...