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Power

Power in consolidation arises from existing rights that give an investor the current ability to direct the investee’s relevant activities, meaning those that significantly affect returns. Assess whether rights are substantive and exercisable when the relevant decisions need to be made. Protective rights alone do not give power. Control additionally requires exposure or rights to variable returns and the ability to use power to affect those returns.

Worked example

Rights to appoint the decision-making board may give an investor power over the activities that significantly affect the investee’s returns.

Common mistake

Do not assess control solely from a voting percentage, or assume that every veto is a substantive decision-making right.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA FA Direct September 2026–June 2027
ACCA K1 Supporting July 2027–August 2028
CIMA F2 Direct Official assessment-window verification pending
FIA FFA Direct September 2026–June 2027

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