Differences between Spanish GAAP and IFRS
Spanish accounting standards, known as Spanish GAAP or "Plan General Contable" are broadly similar to IFRS. When analysing or planning to present accounts under Spanish GAAP, you may wish to consider the differences summarised here.
While both frameworks aim for transparent financial reporting, key differences significantly impact financial statements. Under Goodwill and intangible assets, IFRS requires annual impairment tests and prohibits goodwill amortisation, whereas Spanish GAAP allows amortisation over up to 10 years (extendable to 20) and tests for impairment when indicators arise. For Financial instruments, IFRS emphasises fair value measurement and a principles-based approach, while Spanish GAAP may use historical cost with different classification categories. In Lease accounting, IFRS brings most leases onto the balance sheet as right-of-use assets and liabilities; Spanish GAAP keeps operating leases off-balance-sheet. Revenue recognition differs as IFRS uses a detailed five-step model focusing on control transfer, whereas Spanish GAAP is less prescriptive, focusing on risks and rewards transfer. Lastly, consolidation criteria differ: IFRS defines control based on the ability to direct activities and variable returns, while Spanish GAAP presumes control with over 50% ownership and may not consider potential voting rights or consolidate certain entities. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate financial reporting under IFRS.
Understanding differences such as these is crucial for when analysing Spanish businesses and consolidating their accounts into IFRS reporting, as they can significantly impact financial statements.
Accounting standards are subject to updates and amendments. Always refer to the most recent versions of both Spanish GAAP (Plan General de Contabilidad - PGC) and IFRS for the latest requirements.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional accounting or legal advice.
References
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS): Available from the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) website: www.ifrs.org
Plan General de Contabilidad (PGC): Official Spanish accounting standards issued by the Instituto de Contabilidad y Auditoría de Cuentas (ICAC): The 2021 version of Spanish GAAP, in Spanish can be downloaded here, which contains the above source references as individual chapters; and in the non-binding English version is here.