Free Essay

Accounting Theory

In:

Submitted By wayayaya
Words 1925
Pages 8
Nama NIM: Dinawaya Widarasti : 11/315743/EK/18539

STANDARISASI, HARMONISASI DAN KONVERGENSI IFRS Oleh : Natalia Titiek Wiyani, S.Pd. Di dalam akuntansi keuangan dikenal adanya standar yang harus dipatuhi dalam pembuatan laporan keuangan. Jika tidak terdapat standar, perusahaan dapat saja menyajikan laporan keuangan yang mereka miliki sesuai dengan kehendak mereka sendiri. Hal ini tentunya akan menjadi masalah bagi para pengguna karena akan menyulitkan untuk memahami laporan keuangan yang ada. Setiap negara tentunya mempunyai aturan akuntansi (standar) yang berbeda-beda. Perbedaan akuntansi tiap negara akan menyulitkan bagi para pengguna laporan keuangan terutama bagi para analis, auditor, investor dan kreditor yang lingkup kerjanya melewati batas negara. Apa itu IFRS? IFRS atau International Financial Reporting Standards and Practices diterbitkan dalam bentuk buku yang memuat standar dan praktik internasional mengenai pelaporan keuangan. IFRS merupakan standar akuntansi internasional yang disusun oleh IASB (International Accounting Standard Board). IASB dahulu bernama Komisi Standar Akuntansi Keuangan (IASC /International Accounting Standards Committee). IASC merupakan lembaga independen untuk menyusun standar akuntansi yang dikenal dengan Standar Akuntansi Internasional (IAS/International Accounting Standards). Organisasi ini memiliki tujuan mengembangkan dan mendorong penggunaan standar akuntansi global yang berkualitas tinggi, namun dapat dipahami dan dapat diperbandingkan (Choi et al, 2005). IFRS diterbitkan sebagai upaya untuk memperkuat arsitektur keuangan global dan mencari solusi jangka panjang terhadap kurangnya transparansi informasi keuangan. Adapun tujuan penerapan IFRS adalah: 1. Memastikan bahwa laporan keuangan internal perusahaan mengandung informasi berkualitas tinggi 2. Transparansi bagi pengguna laporan dan dapat dibandingkan sepanjang periode yang disajikan 3. Dapat dihasilkan dengan biaya yang tidak melebihi manfaat untuk para pengguna 4. Meningkatkan investasi Di Indonesia, saat ini menggunakan Prinsip-prinsip Akuntansi Beberapa tahun yang lalu, sebelum akuntansi kita mengacu pada akuntansi Amerika, Indonesia menerapkan sistem pembukuan Belanda yang dikenal dengan istilah tata buku (book keeping). Dengan adanya standar yang berbeda-beda, maka dirasa perlu munculnya akuntansi internasional yang diharapkan mampu mengatasi perbedaan akuntansi yang ada di banyak negara. Mengapa Akuntansi Internasional? Ada beberapa alasan munculnya akuntansi internasional atau yang dikenal dengan IFRS : 1. Semakin luasnya jangkauan perusahaan multi nasional 2. Adanya investasi dari dan ke luar negeri 3. Fluktuasi keuangan yang menimbulkan perubahan kurs valas

4. Di dalam pasar modal USA yaitu NYSE (New York Stock Exchange), dimana terdapat 1.200 perusahaan asing yang terdaftar. Apakah Akuntansi Internasional itu? Menurut (Choi 2005) akuntansi internasional memiliki tiga pengertian yaitu: 1. Pertama, konsep parent foreign subsidiary accounting. Menganggap bahwa akuntansi internasional hanya proses penyusunan laporan konsolidasi antara perusahaan induk dan cabang yang berada di berbagai Negara 2. Kedua, konsep comparative/international accounting. Menekankan pada upaya mempelajari perbedaan akuntansi di berbagai Negara 3. Ketiga,universal atau world accounting yang berarti kerangka/konsep teori dan prinsip akuntansi yang berlaku di semua negara Akuntansi internasional mencakup semua perbedaan prinsip, metode dan standar akuntansi semua negara. Perbedaan akuntansi antar negara terjadi karena perbedaan geografi, social ekonomi, politik dan hokum, budaya, bahasa, dan lainnya. Untuk mengatasi perbedaan perlakuan akuntansi di tiap negara, ada beberapa usulan untuk mengatasinya : a) Setiap perusahaan menyusun laporan keuangan primer dan sekunder b) Menganut single –domicile reporting, yang artinya laporan keuangan disusun menurut standar dari domisili perusahaan tersebut, atau c) Laporan keuangan disusun menurut standar internasional Standarisasi, Harmonisasi dan Konvergensi Standarisasi berbeda dengan harmonisasi (Choi, 2005). Standarisasi adalah penetapan aturan yang kaku, sempit dan bahkan mungkin penerapan satu standar/aturan tunggal dalam segala situasi. Standarisasi tidak mengakomodasi perbedaan-perbedaan antar negara, oleh karena itu sulit diimplementasikan secara internasional. Harmonisasi jauh lebih fleksibel dan terbuka, tidak menggunakan pendekatan satu untuk semua, tetapi mengakomodasi beberapa perbedaan. Harmonisasi merupakan proses untuk meningkatkan komparabilitas (kesesuaian) praktik akuntansi dengan menentukan batasan-batasan seberapa besar praktik tersebut dapat beragam. Standar harmonisasi bebas dari konflik logika dan dapat meningkatkan daya banding informasi keuangan yang berasal dari berbagai negara. Secara sederhana harmonisasi dapat diartikan bahwa suatu negara tidak mengikuti sepenuhnya standar yang berlaku secara internasional. Negara tersebut hanya membuat standar akuntansi yang mereka miliki tidak bertentangan dengan standar akuntansi internasional. Menurut Media Akuntansi Desember 2005, Harmonisasi akuntansi dimaksudkan agar standar akuntansi yang dikeluarkan oleh badan penyusun standar di setiap negara selaras denga IAS (International Accounting Standards) yang ditetapkan oleh IASC. Tidak perlu sama pengaturannya secara teknis, asalkan tidak saling bertentangan maka standar akuntansi nasional dikatakan harmonis denga IAS. Pada tahun 1990-saat ini, di kalangan profesi akuntan di dunia menggunakan istilah konvergensi. Harmonisasi akuntansi mencakup: 1. Standar akuntansi (yang berkaitan dengan pengukuran dan pengungkapannya) 2. Pengungkapan yang dibuat oleh perusahaan-perusahaan publik terkait dengan penawaran surat berharga dan pencatatan pada bursa efek 3. Standar audit Adapun manfaat harmonisasi internasional adalah :

Secara umum semua laporan keuangan menggunakan bahasa Inggris sebagai bahasa induk, karena bahasa Inggris digunakan di seluruh dunia • Kalangan usaha akan mengalami manfaat yang cukup besar dalam perencanaan biaya, biaya sistem dan pelatihan Kerugian yang diperoleh dengan adanya harmonisasi adalah : perpajakan dan jaminan sosial berpengaruh terhadap efisiensi nasional. Persetujuan akan sistem perpajakan akan menjadi pendirian seperti sistem kartel dan akan menghilangkan manfaat yang akan diperoleh dalam persaiangan antar negara. Selanjutnya, bagaimana dengan GAAP global yang terharmonisasi? Tentu saja mempunyai manfaat antara lain : 1. Pasar modal menjadi global dan modal investasi dapat bergerak di seluruh dunia tanpa hambatan berarti. Standar pelaporan keuangan yang berkualitas tinggi yang digunakan secara konsisten di seluruh dunia akan memperbaiki efisiensi alokasi modal 2. Investor dapat membuat keputusan investasi yang lebih baik, portofolio akan lebih beragam dan resiko keuangan berkurang 3. Perusahaan-perusahaan dapat memperbaiki proses pengambilan keputusan strategi dalam bidang merger dan akuisisi 4. Gagasan terbaik yang timbul dari aktivitas pembuatan standar dapat disebarkan dan mengembangkan standar global yang berkualitas tinggi • Bagaimana Komentar atas Internasionalisasi Standar Akuntansi? Beberapa pihak mengatakan bahwa penentuan standar internasional merupakan solusi yang terlalu sederhana atas masalah yang rumit. Hal ini juga dikatakan merupakan sebuah taktik KAP-KAP besar yang menyediakan jasa akuntansi internasional untuk memperluas pasarnya. Adopsi standar internasional akan menimbulkan standar yang berlebihan dan dampaknya, perusahaan harus merespon tekanan nasional, politik, sosial dan ekonomi yang semakin meningkat dan semakin dibuat untuk memenuhi ketentuan internasional yang rumit dan berbiaya besar. Pendapat lain mengatakan, pasar modal internasional telah berkembang baik tanpa adanya GAAP global. Harmonisasi prinsip akuntansi internasional tampaknya tidak akan terwujud, tidak ada pihak dominan, tidak ada badan berwenang yang memiliki kemampuan menetapkan adopsi GAAP global. Bagaimana dengan Konvergensi yang ditawarkan IASB? IASB (International Accounting Standards Board) yang sebelumnya disebut IASC, menginginkan agar standar akuntansi seluruh anggotanya konvergen dengan IFRS. Alasan IASB memilih penerapan konvergensi bukan harmonisasi adalah, karena pengaturan yang konvergen akan meningkatkan daya banding laporan keuangan seluruh dunia serta tidak ada permasalahan time lags. Konvergensi standar akuntansi merupakan istilah umum dalam IASB. Konvergensi standar akuntansi internasional dan nasional mencakup penghapusan perbedaan secara bertahap yang mencari solusi terbaik atas masalah- masalah akuntansi dan pelaporan. Apabila telah diterapkan konvergensi, maka tidka ada lagi perbedaan-perbedaan akuntansi. Konvergensi IFRS 2012 IAI menyatakan bahwa Indonesia akan menerapkan program konvergensi IFRS atau Indonesian GAAP yang akan dikonvergensikan secara penuh pada tanggal 1 Januari

2012. Menurut Jurnal Akuntan Indonesia (Juni, 2009): 1. PSAK 50 (revisi 2006) dan PSAK 55 (revisi 2006) yang semula berlaku efektif untuk periode pada satau setelah 1 Januari 2009 diubah menjadi 1 Januari 2010 2. PSAK 50 mengacu pada IAS 32 (revisi 2005), mengenai Instrumen keuangan: penyajian dn pengungkapan 3. PSAK 55 mengacu pada IAS 39 (revisi 2005), mengenai Instrumen keuangan: pengakuan dan pengukuran Bagaimana IAI Menerapkan Konvergensi? Menurut jurnal IAI 2009, banyak pihak yeng meragukan karena PSAK 50 dan 55 yang ditetapkan tahun 2006, implementasinya masih diundur hingga 2010. Namun sebagai perbandingan, IFRS setebal 2000-an halaman, 600-an halaman diantaranya membahas IAS 32 dan 39. Artinya materi IAS 32 dan 39 (PSAK 50 dan 55) tidaklah sederhana. IAI tetap berpegang pada keputusannya yaitu melakukan konvergensi IFRS. Konvergensi standar akuntansi dapat dilakukan dengan 3 cara yaitu: harmonisasi (membuat standar sendiri yang tidak berkonflik dengan IFRS), adaptasi (membuat standar sendiri yang disesuaikan dengan IFRS), atau adopsi (mengambil langsung dari IFRS). Apabila adopsi penuh IFRS dilakukan, maka laporan keuangan berdasarkan PSAK tidak memerlukan rekonsiliasi signifikan dengan laporan keuangan berdasarkan IFRS. Manfaat Adopsi penuh IFRS: 1. Memudahkan pemahaman atas laporan keuangan dengan menggunakan SAK (Standar Akuntansi Keuangan) yang dikenal secara internasional 2. Meningkatkan arus investasi global melalui transparansi 3. Menurunkan biaya modal dengan membuka peluang fund raising melalui pasar modal global 4. Menciptakan efisiensi laporan keuangan Strategi adopsi ada dua cara, yaitu: a) Big Bang Strategy, adopsi penuh dilakukan sekaligus tanpa masa transisi (strategi ini biasanya digunakan oleh negara-negara maju dan sebagian kecil negara berkembang seperti : Afrika Selatan) b) Gradual Strategy, adopsi secara bertahap, dengan masa transisi Adapun arah pengembangan PSAK: • Untuk PSAK yang sama dengan IFRS, maka dilakukan revisi PSAK dan /atau diterbitkan PSAK yang baru • Untuk PSAK industry khusus, maka dihilangkan dan /atau diterbitkan pedoman akuntansi • Untuk PSAK derivasi UU, maka dipertahankan • Untuk PSAK yang belum/tidak diatur dalam IFRS, amaka dikembangkan Proses Konvergensi PSAK dengan IFRS akan berdampak pula terhadap pendidikan yaitu: - Perubahan mind stream dan rule –based kepada principle based - Banyak menggunakan professional judgment:pemahaman substansi dan prinsip yang diatur serta integritas - Banyak menggunakan fair value accounting :perubahan dari income statement approach ke balance sheet approach

-

IFRS selalu berubah dan konsep yang digunakan dalam suatu IFRS dapat berbeda dengan IFRS lain, misalnya lease meggunakan risk and rewardconcept dan pemutakhiran IFRS merupakan suatu keharusan Perubahan textbook dari US GAAP kepada IFRS Bagaimana halnya dengan Indonesia?Cara mana yang ditempuh dalam melakukan konvergensi?

Indonesia memilih untuk melakukan adopsi. Namun bukan adopsi penuh, mengingat adanya perbedaan sifat bisnis dan regulasi di Indonesia. Oleh karena itu, saat ini Standar Akuntansi Keuangan milik Indonesia sebagian besar sudah sama dengan IFRS. Indonesia melakukan konvergensi IFRS ini karena Indonesia sudah memiliki komitmen dalam kesepakatan dengan negara-negara G-20. Tujuan kesepakatan tersebut adalah untuk meningkatkan transparansi dan akuntabilitas dalam pelaporan keuangan. Selain itu, konvergensi IFRS akan meningkatkan arus investasi global melalui keterbandingan laporan keuangan (saat ini sekitar 120 negara sudah berkomitmen untuk melakukan konvergensi IFRS). Konvergensi IFRS seharusnya dicapai Indonesia pada tahun 2008, namun karena beberapa hal, DSAK (Dewan Standar Akuntansi Keuangan) berkomitmen bahwa konvergensi akan dicapai pada 1 Januari 2012. Kegagalan Indonesia untuk mencapai konvergensi pada tahun 2008 ini harus dibayar dengan masih tingginya tingkat suku bunga kredit untuk Indonesia yang ditetapkan oleh World Bank. Hal ini dikarenakan World Bank menganggap investasi Indonesia masih beresiko karena penyajian laporan keuangan masih menggunakan Standar Akuntansi buatan Indonesia (belum IFRS). Di dunai internasional, IFRS telah diadopsi oleh banyak negara, termasuk negara- negara Uni Eropa, Afrika, Asia, Amerika Latin dan Australia. Di kawasan Asia, Hongkong, Filipina dan Singapura pun telah mengadopsinya. Sejak 2008, diperkirakan ada sekitar 80 negara mengharuskan perusahaan yang telah terdaftar dalam bursa efek global menerapkan IFRS dalam mempersiapkan dan mempresentasikan laporan keuangan. Dalam konteks Indonesia, meskipun banyak pro dan kontra Konvergensi IFRS dengan PSAK (Pedoman Standar Akuntansi Keuangan) merupakan hal yang sangat penting untuk menjamin daya saing nasional. Perubahan tata cara pelaporan keuangan dari GAAP, PSAK atau lainnya ke IFRS berdampak sangat luas. IFRS akan menjadi kompetensi wajib baru bagi akuntan publik, penilai (appraiser), akuntan manajemen, regulator dan akuntan pendidik. Mampukah para pekerja accounting menghadapi perubahan yang secara terus-menerus akan dilakukan untuk memenuhi kebutuhan pasar global terhadap informasi keuangan? Bagaimana persiapan Indonesia menyambut IFRS ini? Sejak tahun 2004, profesi akuntan di Indonesia telah melakukan harmonisasi antara PSAK/Indonesian GAAP dan IFRS. Konvergensi IFRS diharapkan tercapai pada 2012. Walaupun IFRS masih belum diterapkan secara penuh saat ini, persiapan dan kesiapan untuk menyambutnya akan memberikan daya saing tersendiri untuk entitas bisnis di Indonesia. Tentunya implementasi IFRS ini akan membutuhkan biaya yang sangat besar, energi dan waktu yang tidak ringan, tetapi biaya untuk tidak mengadopsinya akan jauh lebih signifikan. Komitmen manajemen perusahaan Indonesia untuk mengadopsi IFRS merupakan syarat mutlak untuk meningkatkan daya saing perusahaan Indonesia di masa depan.

Similar Documents

Free Essay

Accounting Theory

...FORMULATION OF ACCOUNTING THEORY: PURPOSE AND APPROACHES A TERM PAPER (2) ON ADVANCED ACCOUNTING THEORY (ACC 821) PRESENTED BY EKERIA, Victor IKYUME, Chiahemba James OGBOLE, Philip Osemudiamen SUBMITTED TO PROFESSOR A.E. OKOYE DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMEN SUDIES IGBINEDION UNIVERSITY, OKADA MARCH, 2015 Abstract As tasks of accounting became more difficult and focus shifted to users’ needs, a theory became necessary. Existence of a need for information for decision making (decision usefulness) in face of information asymmetry led to development of means, tools and techniques for satisfying decision making needs (formulation of accounting theories) This paper briefly discusses the purpose/importance for accounting theory and various approaches to the formulation of an accounting theory under two headings, namely: (1) traditional approaches, and (2) new approaches. The paper finally highlights the critiques of the accounting theory approaches Table of Content 1.0.0. Introduction……………………………………………………………………………… 1 2.0.0. Meaning of Accounting Theory………………………………………………………… 2 2.1.0. Needs and Purpose for Accounting Theory…………………………………………….. 3 3.0.0. Early Attempts at Accounting Theory……………………………………………………...3 4.0.0. Approaches to the for Formulation of Accounting Theory……………………………….5 4.1.0. 4.1.0. The Traditional Approaches………………………………………………………..5 4.1.1. Non – Theoretical, Practical, or Pragmatic (Informal) Approaches……...

Words: 4446 - Pages: 18

Free Essay

Accounting Theory

...How would critical theorists assess research based on the Positive Accounting Theory? Accounting researchers tend to accept current accounting systems. Rather than focusing on why accounting systems favour certain classes of society, research is mainly carried out to such things as what accounting methods are most appropriate in certain circumstances, what motivates managers to use one accounting method over another and disclosure. By looking at accounting with a critical perspective is to recognise the way in which people are in control of capital. The Positive Accounting Theory (PAT) and Legitimacy Theory can be analysed critically for their bias approach of a political and economic perspective disregarding those people without wealth. A critical perspective of accounting is a perspective that critically evaluates the role of accounting in society. It does not consider issues such as what accounting methods should be used in which situations and often views accounting as a major contributor to perceived social problems and inequalities (Deegan, 2001). Critical theorists are those that ignore the whole world of accounting, favouring the interests of those people with wealth of power. However, they focus on the problems in and of society, not debate which methods of accounting should be employed. Accounting to Watts & Zimmerman (1990, page 7) Positive Accounting Theory is concerned with explaining accounting practice. It is designed to explain and predict which firms will...

Words: 454 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Accounting Theory

...favor of what the accountant is able to measure and chooses to measure…” (p. 480). Required: Discuss the extent to which the “scientific” world-view of mainstream accounting researchers, is grounded on a belief that “reality” exists independently of thee human subject and the possible implications this has for accounting theory development. Introduction Accounting is a subject that is guided with principles and regulations. Thus, it is often regarded as a rigid, rigorous, and highly analytical discipline with very precise interpretations. However, this is far from the truth. For instance, two organizations that are otherwise homogeneous can apply different valuation methods giving entirely distinct but equally correct answers. One may argue that a choice between accounting schemes is merely an “accounting construct” the sorts of “games” accountants play that are exclusively of relevance to them but have no pertinent in the “real world.” Once again this is entirely false. For example, valuation of inventory using either LIFO (Last-in-last-out) or FIFO (First-in-first-out) has an impact on income tax, especially in the US. Therefore an accounting construct possesses an essential “social reality” i.e. the amount of income tax that is paid. Income tax payments are not the only social reality that accounting numbers affect. Income numbers also influence dividend payments, price of a firm’s stock, the cost of capital as well as salaries and bonuses since it can be used as an...

Words: 1609 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Accounting Theory

...Accounting theory without a doubt, has transformed rapidly throughout the years due to changes in society, environment, globalization, and the expansion of various industries, which ties in with the needs for new accounting standards. However, some basic aspects remain the same, for example, the double entry system. These drastic changes throughout the years call for a change in the accounting standards and in order for accounting standards to be fair, efficient, reliable and reflect modern practices researchers require several methods to gain more perspective and a better vantage point on the situation to ensure the best possible accounting standards are created to suit each particular accounting phenomenon. These include the descriptive and prescriptive methods, which are almost exact opposites in theory. Theorists seek to explain phenomena such as asset valuation, the demand and supply of accounting information, and what sort of accounting information should be provided to particular users through these two methods. The aforementioned theories can never be proven so researchers aim to create the best possible standards and answer to these phenomena by shuffling back and forth between methods and provide different perspectives on one subject. Other researchers including Grady, Watts and Zimmerman, Paton, etc. have laid the necessary groundwork and this allows modern researchers to theorize and apply past theories to modern accounting phenomena. Descriptive methods of...

Words: 2133 - Pages: 9

Free Essay

Positive Accounting Theory

...Positive Accounting Theory: A Ten Year Perspective Ross L. Watts and Jerold L. Zimmerman University of Rochester ABSTRACT: This paper reviews and critiques the positive accounting literature following publication of Watts and Zimmerman (1978, 1979). The 1978 paper helped generate the positive accounting literature which offers an explanation of accounting practice, suggests the importance of contracting costs, and has led to the discovery of some previously unknown empirical regularities. The 1979 paper produced a methodological debate that has not been very productive. This paper attempts to remove some common misconceptions about methodology that surfaced in the debate. It also suggests ways to improve positive research in accounting choice. The most important of these improvements is tighter links between the theory and the empirical tests. A second suggested improvement is the development of models that recognize the endogeneity among the variables in the regressions. A third improvement is reduction in measurement errors in both the dependent and independent variables in the regressions. I T is more than a decade since our two papers, "Towards a Positive Theory of the Determination of Accounting Standards" and "The Demand for and Supply of Accounting Theories: The Market for Excuses" were published in The Accounting Review. The intervening time allows us to look back on these papers and the ensuing literature with some perspective. The two papers were...

Words: 273 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Positive Accounting Theory

...discussed contributors to the accounting literature of the past decade" (1989, p. 327). They are also the joint founder-editors of The Journal of Accounting and Economics, a journal devoted to positive accounting research, which has achieved an international reputation. So their story, while admittedly controversial, has achieved credibility among a significant number of accounting researchers. But what accounts for that credibility? According to Watts and Zimmerman's (1986) view of science, a theory's credibility will ultimately be a function of explanatory power and predictive capability: "Ultimately the users, who assess alternative explanations' intuitive appeal and bear the costs and benefits of theories' predictions, will determine the success of the theory outlined in this book" (p. 355). And a theory, in their conception, consists of: the assumptions, including the definitions of variables and the logic that relates them, and the set of substantive hypotheses" (1986, p. 9). And since the hypotheses of a theory bear the brunt of empirical testing, the primary concern of the empirical testing of PAT is whether or not the hypotheses can predict accounting practice. Prediction of accounting practice means that the theory predicts unobserved accounting phenomena" (1986, p. 2). More concretely, they mean that PAT can be used to predict which accounting procedures will be chosen by management when management faces a "portfolio" of accepted accounting procedures from which to choose...

Words: 1189 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Postive Accounting Theory

...Positive accounting is the branch of academic research in accounting that seeks to explain and predict actual accounting practices. This contrasts with normative accounting, that seeks to derive and prescribe "optimal" accounting standards. The branch of academic research in accounting that seeks to explain and predict actual accounting practices. Positive accounting can be associated with the contractual view of the firm.[1][2] The firm is viewed as “a nexus of contracts” and accounting one tool to facilitate the formation and performance of contracts. Under this view, accounting practices evolve to mitigate contracting costs by establishing ex ante agreement among varying parties. For example, positive accounting postulates that conservatism in accounting –in this sense defined conditionally as requiring lower (higher) standards of verifiability to recognize losses (gains)– has origins in contract markets, including managerial compensation contracts and lender debt contracts. As an example, absent conservatism, managerial compensation agreements may reward managers based on current reports that later evidence indicate were unwarranted. The contractual view of positive accounting puts it in tension with value relevance studies in accounting: the latter contend that accounting’s primary role is to value the firm, and thus practices like conservatism are sub-optimal.[3] The value relevance school emphasizes the usefulness of accounting information to equity investors in contrast...

Words: 700 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Positive Theory of Accounting

...Synopsis Positive accounting theory is perceived as a hypothetical study in accounting which helps in clarifying and foreseeing tangible accounting procedures. These theories have a tendency to rationalize why a number of accounting practices are accepted than others. Positive accounting theory was introduced to better apprehend exactly how practices in accounting must be effectively managed. Introduction Modern positive accounting research began flourishing in the 1960’s and other introduce empirical finance method to financial accounting. The subsequent literature adopted the assumption that accounting number supply information for security market investment decision and used the information perspective to investigate the relation between accounting number and stack prices. The information perspective has taught us much about the market’s use of accounting numbers. It was structured as an educational thought of discipline by the efforts of Ross Watts and Jerold Zimmerman which when made known were received with extensive criticism. Summary of the Article Positive accounting can be related with the predetermined opinion of a firm. A firm is regarded as a conception initiative put forth by a number of economists and legal commentators which stresses that corporations are nothing more than a compilation of agreements concerning different parties – mostly shareholders, directors, employees, suppliers, customers and accounting – one tool to expedite the materialization...

Words: 1357 - Pages: 6

Free Essay

Financial Accounting Theory

...number of normative theories of accounting. In doing so we examined conceptual framework projects which prescribe guidelines for how accounting should be done. We then examined a number of normative theories relating to how profit and the elements of our financial statements should be measured. This week we abandon our normative theories and begin looking at positive theories. In particular we examine a positive theory that we have made mention of a number of times, Positive Accounting Theory or PAT. Upon completion of this module you should have: A clear understanding of how a positive theory differs from a normative theory, The origins of Positive Accounting Theory (PAT) The perceived role of accounting in minimizing the transaction costs of an organisation You should understand: How accounting can be used to reduce the costs associated with various political processes How particular accounting-based agreements with parties such as debtholders and managers can provide incentives for managers to manipulate accounting numbers And some of the criticisms of PAT Before we begin our discussion of specific positive theories we should recap on what a positive theory is and how it differs from the normative theories we have examined in the previous two modules. You will recall from module one and the previous two modules that normative theories prescribe how a particular practice should be undertaken. As was evident in our study of current cost accounting and general price...

Words: 455 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Positive Accounting Theory

...136 Positive Accounting Theory and Science JCC Journal of CENTRUM Cathedra ™ Positive Accounting Theory and Science by M. Humayun Kabir Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Business Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand Abstract This paper examines the development of positive accounting theory (PAT) and compares it with three standard accounts of science: Popper (1959), Kuhn (1996), and Lakatos (1970). PAT has been one of the most influential accounting research programs during the last four decades. One important reason which Watts & Zimmerman (1986) have used to popularize and legitimize their approach is that their view of accounting theory is the same as that used in science. Thus, it is important to examine how far accounting has been successful in imitating natural science and how the development of PAT compares with the three standard accounts of science. This paper shows that accounting could not emulate the success of natural science. Further, the methodological positions of PAT conform to none of the standard accounts of science. Rather, PAT contains elements of all three. Finally, this paper identifies some methodological gaps in PAT. Keywords: Positive Accounting Theory, Philosophy of Science, Methodological Controversies Acknowledgements I would like to thank two anonymous reviewers of the journal for their helpful comments. Earlier versions of this paper benefited from comments from Lee Parker of the University of South Australia, Keith...

Words: 9637 - Pages: 39

Premium Essay

Postive Accounting Theory

...examines the development of positive accounting theory (PAT) and compares it with three standard accounts of science. There is some confusion about what PAT is. If the definition of accounting theory (i.e., accounting theory seeks to explain and predict accounting and auditing practice) given in Watts and Zimmerman’s 1986 book is taken to mean PAT, studies of accounting choices and auditing practices constitute PAT. At the same time, they also seek to explain the economics-based empirical literature in accounting and they describe, in addition to accounting choice studies, capital market-based accounting research. They point out that Ball and Brown (1968) initially popularized positive research in accounting, suggesting that PAT includes both capital market-based accounting research and research in accounting choices. This paper takes PAT to include both research programs. This usage is consistent with Watts and Zimmerman’s (1986) assertion that when they use the term “positive” to differentiate it from “prescriptive” theory. Positive Accounting Theory and Science by M. Humayun Kabir Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Business Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand Abstract This paper examines the development of positive accounting theory (PAT) and compares it with three standard accounts of science: Popper (1959), Kuhn (1996), and Lakatos (1970). PAT has been one of the most influential accounting research programs during the last four...

Words: 6941 - Pages: 28

Premium Essay

Accounting Theory

...Contemporary issues in Accounting Unit Code: ACCOO106 Assignment -1 Subject: Normative accounting theory To: Mr Khalid Mahmood Name: Muhammad Mehedi Alam ID: 21562675 Word count: 1145(reference excluded) Date of Submission-07/12/09 Normative accounting theories CPPA- current/constant purchasing power accounting CCA- current cost accounting CoCoA- continuous contemporary accounting Current purchasing power accounting a form of accounting that measures profit after allowing for the maintenance of the purchasing power of the shareholders' capital. ‘There are various prescriptive theories of accounting that were advanced by various people on the basis that historical cost accounting has too many shortcomings, particularly in times of rising prices’ (Page 83 Chapter 4). | Theory and Purpose of |CPPA |Maintain purchasing power |Adjustments to income | |accounting | | | | |Measure of non-monetary |HC (historical cost) |historical cost accounts adjusted for |Holding gain/loss on net monetary | |assets’ value | |changes in the purchasing power of the |assets/liabilities only recognised in | | | |dollar (not recognise in PNL) |PNL ...

Words: 1299 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Accounting Theory Is Useful

...usefulness of accounting theory is evident at various levels within the accounting profession and society in general including, standard setters, accounting professionals and users of accounting information. This essay will address two key areas, firstly, a personal reflection on this course and why studying theory is essential for practicing accountants. The second part is a critical evaluation of the conceptual framework and why it is an essential part of accounting literature. Areas evaluated include the purpose and benefits of a conceptual framework, a brief history of it in Australia, principle based versus rules based standards and some criticisms of it are discussed. Personal reflection I must admit, when scrolling through the list of courses I have left to complete my degree Accounting Theory did not jump out as one I was eager to enrol in. This is in no small part due to my lack of appreciation of how knowledge of the development of theory can give context and power to understanding changes. Whereas before I was more about practice and ‘getting it done’, it has become apparent that theory generally is an intrinsic element in advancing our understanding of our environment, culminating in improvements in practice. It is not a means of simply explaining or predicting behaviour, nor is it there only to serve as a framework for further inquiry (although these are important benefits of theory). Theory has a much more significant and elegant role to play in accounting than simply...

Words: 3910 - Pages: 16

Premium Essay

Positive Accounting Theory

...The Positive Theory of Accounting Outline In the text, Scott defines Positive accounting theory (PAT) as: “concerned with predicting such actions as the choices of accounting policies by firms and how firms will respond to proposed new accounting standards.” (263) PAT uses theory to predict the choices that management will make regarding their choice of accounting policies. This theory is introduced as a way to merge efficient securities markets with economic consequences. PAT takes the view that firms will conduct themselves in the way that maximizes their own best interests. Managers do not always do what is best for shareholders, but what will be the most beneficial to their organization. The choices that an organization makes are dependent on what industry they are in, and the factors within that industry An organization can be portrayed by the contracts it enters into. A firm’s contracts with employees, suppliers, lenders, and shareholders are central to its operations. The organization is inclined to keep these contract costs as low as possible. PAT emphasizes that an organization’s choice of accounting policies is motivated by keeping contract costs down. PAT does not propose that organizations completely identify what accounting policies they will use. Such specification is costly to commit to, and does not give management the opportunity to respond to unforeseen circumstances. Managers have flexibility to choose from a set of accounting policies, and...

Words: 1003 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Accounting Theory

...From Sheet of Accounting Theory Difficulties in Segment Reporting * Base of Segmentation: in case of complex business, it’s difficult to select a base for organization as well as difficult to compare. * Allocation of Common Costs: Common costs are likely to be allocated, bringing segment information into question * Pricing Inter-segment Transaction: No specific method for inter-segment pricing, different method use for cost, cost plus market price and negotiable price. * Costs of Segment Disclosure: Increased competition may result segmental disclosures where profitable segment may attract competitors, & loss making segment arise the take over situation. Foreign companies are not required to provide segmental reports. * Management Conservatism: Management determination of segments implies that what is useful to management is useful to investors. FASB’s 5 possible objective for interim reporting: 1. To estimate annual earnings 2. To make projections 3. To identify turning points 4. To evaluate Management Performance 5. To supplement the annual Report. Problems in Interim Reporting * Accounting Problems: * Inventory Problems: There are three types of problems; * Determination of Inventory quantities * Valuation of inventories * Adjustment of valuation * Matching principle: Business operations are not similar throughout the year. Resources are acquired & output may be sold & there are many...

Words: 1926 - Pages: 8