Explain The Conceptual And Regulatory Framework Of Accounting

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Discuss the conceptual and regulatory framework of Accounting The concepts of accounting are the assumptions that guide the accounting process. These concepts are reinforced through the accounting standards that exist internationally. That accountants need to observe the following basic principles; Going Concern concept Accounting assumes that an entity will continue to operate indefinitely. That a business will continue to operate for the foreseeable future. This concept implies that financial statements do not represent a company’s worth if its assets were to be liquidated, but rather that the assets will be used in future operations. This concept also allows businesses to spread (amortize) the cost of an asset over its expected…show more content…
This ensures that differences in financial position between reporting periods are a result of changed in the operations and not to changes in the way items are accounted for. The method chosen should give the most reliable picture of the business. However, a business can change its method of reporting but they must be careful and put a lot of things in consideration first. Conservatism or prudence concept This requires understating rather than overstating revenue (income) and expense amounts that have a degree of uncertainty. The rule is to recognize revenue when it is reasonably certain and recognize expenses as soon as they are reasonably possible. The reasons for accounting in this manner are so that financial statements do not overstate the company’s financial position. Accounting chooses to err on the side of caution and protect investors from inflated or overly positive results. Realization…show more content…
The information therefore should be truthful, accurate, complete and capable of being verified by potential investors. Understandability: This implies the expression, with clarity, of accounting information in such a way that it will be understandable to users - who are generally assumed to have a reasonable knowledge of business and economic activities. The accountant prepares financial statements according to accepted practices that are believed to be understandable. Decision makers must interpret accounting information and use it in making decisions. Relevance: This implies that, to be useful, accounting information must assist a user to form, confirm or maybe revise a view - usually in the context of making a decision (e.g. should I invest, should I lend money to this business? Should I work for this business?) Relevant information can affect the outcome of a decision, provide feedback, help predict future conditions and be timely Consistency: This implies consistent treatment of similar items and application of accounting

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