Loss Contingencies Face Controversy in Convergence

Amendments to SFAS 5 and IAS 37 Are Rethought Amid Criticism

Anthony D. Holder, PhD, and Khondkar E. Karim, PhD, CPA

As part of their short-term convergence project, FASB and the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) are currently reviewing their accounting for loss contingencies. Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) 5, Accounting for Contingencies, acts as the primary accounting guidance for the accrual or disclosure of loss contingencies. Similarly, International Accounting Standard (IAS) 37, Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets, prescribes the recognition, measurement, and disclosure requirements for such items. Few convergence topics have generated as much controversy or discussion as this one. This article discusses the viewpoints of both standards-setting bodies, summarizes respondents' reactions, articulates the controversies, and illustrates the practical implications of these findings.