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
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
