Marketing-related intangible asset — Accounting glossary

Assess whether the item is separable or arises from contractual or legal rights and whether relevant recognition and measurement requirements are met. In a business combination, qualifying identifiable assets are considered separately from goodwill. IAS 38 prohibits recognition of internally generated brands and similar items as intangible assets. Subsequent accounting depends on useful life and impairment requirements.

Worked example

An acquirer purchases a business that owns a legally protected trademark. If the IFRS 3 and IAS 38 requirements are met, it recognises the trademark separately from goodwill.

Common mistake

Recognising every internally developed brand as an asset because marketing expenditure was incurred, or grouping all acquired trademarks into goodwill without analysis.

Where it appears in your exams

Qualification	Exam	Relationship	Period
ACCA	FR	Supporting	September 2026–June 2027
ACCA	SBR	Direct	September 2026–June 2027