Accounting for Digital Assets Between Accounting Measurement Theory and Financial Disclosure Requirements

Abstract

The current research aims to examine the accounting of digital assets by linking accounting measurement theory to financial disclosure requirements, in light of the challenges related to the absence of specialized international accounting standards for digital assets. The research was divided into two parts: theoretical and applied. The theoretical part included a review of the literature related to accounting measurement (historical cost, fair value, and impairment model) and financial disclosure requirements according to International Financial Reporting Standards (IAS/IFRS) and American standards (FASB, AICPA, and SEC). The applied part used a questionnaire and administered to a sample of financial report users, including academics and professionals, to obtain their opinions on the adequacy of current measurement models, financial disclosure requirements, and shortcomings in international standards. It also explored the possibility of formulating an integrated framework for measuring and disclosing digital assets. The results of the analysis of the questionnaire showed that fair value measurement is more appropriate for the nature of digital assets than traditional models, with the need to enhance disclosure of risks associated with price volatility, liquidity, and operational risks. It also showed that the absence of a specific accounting standard for digital assets leads to poor comparability and increased variation in accounting practices across economic entities. Based on the survey results, an integrated theoretical framework for accounting for digital assets was proposed. This framework includes principles of recognition, measurement, and disclosure, and contributes to achieving the objectives of financial reporting in accordance with the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) conceptual framework, ensuring relevance, accurate representation, comparability, clarity, and timeliness. The study concluded that developing a specialized accounting framework for digital assets represents a strategic necessity to ensure the reliability and transparency of financial reporting and enhance user confidence, given the rapid growth in the adoption of digital assets within global economic activities.  

Keywords: {'name': 'digital assets'}, {'name': 'historical cost'}, {'name': 'accounting measurement'}

Authors & affiliations

Nada Salman Habib
Affiliation not supplied

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