- This topic has 1 reply, 2 voices, and was last updated 4 years ago by .
Viewing 2 posts - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
Viewing 2 posts - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
Interactive BPP books for September 2026 exams, recommended by OpenTuition.
Get discount code >>
Forums › Ask ACCA Tutor Forums › Ask the Tutor ACCA FR Exams › Transaction cost (financial instrument)
Hello
I don’t understand why does the transaction cost go to P/L account when there’s no intention to hold the instrument, while it is included as part of cost of investment when theres intention to hold? What is the logic behind it?
Second:. Why is a gain or loss on the investment recognised immediately to P/L when theres no intention to sell, while we haven’t even yet sold it at the reporting date?
Hi,
If we are looking to trade the instrument in the short term then the costs incurred are expensed immediately as opposed to being capitalised as it matches up with the intention of holding the instrument, i.e. to be sold shortly.
If we intend to hold it for the longer term then to expense the costs would not match our intent, i.e. to hold for the foreseeable future and then realise the gains.
The recognition of gains/losses then matches our intent too. If we are looking to sell shortly then we will be realising the gain/losses shortly and hence through profit or loss. If the intend is to hold for the longer period of time then the gains/losses will not be realised shortly and so stored up in reserves.
Thanks
