Applying IFRS: A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Applying IFRS

A closer look at IFRS 15, the

revenue recognition standard

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with

Customers

(Updated September 2019)

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 2

Overview

The largely converged revenue standards, IFRS 15

Revenue from Contracts

with Customers

and Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 606,

Revenue

from Contracts with Customers

(together with IFRS 15, the standards), that

were issued in 2014 by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB

or the Board) and the US Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB)

(collectively, the Boards) provide accounting requirements for all revenue

arising from contracts with customers. They affect all entities that enter into

contracts to provide goods or services to their customers, unless the contracts

are in the scope of other IFRSs or US GAAP requirements, such as those

for leases. The standards, which superseded virtually all legacy revenue

requirements in IFRS and US GAAP, also specify the accounting for costs

an entity incurs to obtain and fulfil a contract to provide goods or services to

customers (see section 9.3) and provide a model for the measurement and

recognition of gains and losses on the sale of certain non-financial assets, such

as property, plant or equipment (see section 2.2.1).

As a result, entities that adopted the standards often found implementation to

be a significant undertaking. This is because the standards require entities to

make more judgements and estimates and they affect entities’ financial

statements, business processes and internal controls over financial reporting.

Following issuance of the standards, the Boards created the Joint Transition

Resource Group for Revenue Recognition (TRG) to help them determine

whether more application guidance was needed on the standards. TRG

members include financial statement preparers, auditors and other users from

a variety of industries, countries, as well as public and private entities.

Members of the joint TRG met six times in 2014 and 2015, and members of the

FASB TRG met twice in 2016.

TRG members’ views are non-authoritative, but entities should consider them as

they implement the standards. In its July 2016 public statement, the European

Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) encouraged issuers to consider

the TRG discussions when implementing IFRS 15.

Furthermore, the former

Chief Accountant of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

encouraged SEC registrants, including foreign private issuers (that may report

under IFRS), to consult with his office if they are considering applying the

standard in a manner that differs from the discussions in which TRG members

reached general agreement.

We have incorporated our summaries of topics on which TRG members generally

agreed throughout this publication. Unless otherwise specified, these summaries

represent the discussions of the joint TRG. Where possible, we indicate if

members of the IASB or its staff commented on the FASB TRG discussions.

This publication summarises the IASB’s standard (including all amendments)

and highlights significant differences from the FASB’s standard. It also

addresses topics on which the members of the TRG reached general agreement

and discusses our views on certain topics.

Throughout this publication, when we refer to the FASB’s standard, we mean ASC 606

(including the recent amendments), unless otherwise noted.

ESMA Public Statement: Issues for consideration in implementing IFRS 15: Revenue from

Contracts with Customers, issued 20 July 2016, available on ESMA's website.

Speech by Wesley R. Bricker, 5 May 2016. Available on the SEC’s website.

3 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

While entities have adopted the standards, application issues may continue to

arise. Accordingly, the views we express in this publication may evolve as

additional issues are identified. The conclusions we describe in our illustrations

are also subject to change as views evolve. Conclusions in seemingly similar

situations may differ from those reached in the illustrations due to differences

in the underlying facts and circumstances. Please see ey.com/IFRS for our most

recent revenue publications.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 4

Contents

Overview ................................................................................................................... 2

1. Objective, effective date and transition .................................................................. 7

1.1 Overview of the standard ......................................................................... 7

1.2 Effective date ......................................................................................... 8

1.3 Transition methods ................................................................................. 8

2. Scope .................................................................................................................. 37

2.1 Scope of IFRS 15 ................................................................................... 37

2.2 Other scope considerations .................................................................... 39

2.3 Definition of a customer ......................................................................... 41

2.4 Collaborative arrangements ................................................................... 42

2.5 Interaction with other standards ............................................................. 43

3. Identify the contract with the customer ............................................................... 54

3.1 Attributes of a contract ......................................................................... 55

3.2 Contract enforceability and termination clauses ....................................... 64

3.3 Combining contracts .............................................................................. 71

3.4 Contract modifications .......................................................................... 73

3.5 Arrangements that do not meet the definition of a contract under the

standard .................................................................................................... 86

Identify the performance obligations in the contract .......................................... 89

4.1 Identifying the promised goods or services in the contract ........................ 89

4.2 Determining when promises are performance obligations ........................ 101

4.3 Promised goods or services that are not distinct .................................... 128

4.4 Principal versus agent considerations ................................................... 129

4.5 Consignment arrangements ................................................................. 149

4.6 Customer options for additional goods or services .................................. 149

4.7 Sale of products with a right of return ................................................... 164

5. Determine the transaction price ........................................................................ 166

5.1 Presentation of sales (and other similar) taxes ....................................... 168

5.2 Variable consideration ......................................................................... 169

5.3 Refund liabilities ................................................................................. 191

5.4 Rights of return .................................................................................. 192

5.5 Significant financing component ........................................................... 197

5.6 Non-cash consideration ....................................................................... 213

5.7 Consideration paid or payable to a customer .......................................... 217

5.8 Non-refundable upfront fees ................................................................ 226

5.9 Changes in the transaction price ........................................................... 230

6. Allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations ............................ 231

6.1 Determining stand-alone selling prices .................................................. 231

6.2 Applying the relative stand-alone selling price method ............................ 248

6.3 Allocating variable consideration .......................................................... 251

5 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

6.4 Allocating a discount ........................................................................... 256

6.5 Changes in transaction price after contract inception ............................. 260

6.6 Allocation of transaction price to components outside the scope of

IFRS 15 .................................................................................................... 263

7. Satisfaction of performance obligations ............................................................. 265

7.1 Performance obligations satisfied over time .......................................... 266

7.2 Control transferred at a point in time .................................................... 304

7.3 Repurchase agreements ...................................................................... 312

7.4 Consignment arrangements ................................................................. 319

7.5 Bill-and-hold arrangements .................................................................. 320

7.6 Recognising revenue for licences of intellectual property ........................ 324

7.7 Recognising revenue when a right of return exists .................................. 324

7.8 Recognising revenue for customer options for additional goods or

services ................................................................................................... 324

7.9 Breakage and prepayments for future goods or services ......................... 325

8. Licences of intellectual property ........................................................................ 329

8.1 Identifying performance obligations in a licensing arrangement ............... 330

8.2 Determining the nature of the entity’s promise in granting a licence ........ 337

8.3 Transfer of control of licensed intellectual property ................................ 343

8.4 Licence renewals ................................................................................. 348

8.5 Sales-based or usage-based royalties on licences of intellectual property . 349

9. Other measurement and recognition topics ........................................................ 362

9.1 Warranties .......................................................................................... 362

9.2 Onerous contracts ............................................................................... 370

9.3 Contract costs .................................................................................... 372

10. Presentation and disclosure ............................................................................. 401

10.1 Presentation requirements for contract assets and contract liabilities .... 402

10.2 Presentation requirements for revenue from contracts with customers .. 411

10.3 Other presentation considerations ...................................................... 413

10.4 Disclosure objective and general requirements ..................................... 414

10.5 Specific disclosure requirements ........................................................ 415

10.6 Transition disclosure requirements ..................................................... 432

10.7 Disclosures in interim financial statements .......................................... 432

Appendix A: Extract from EY’s IFRS Disclosure Checklist ....................................... 433

Appendix B: Illustrative examples included in the standard and references in this

publication ............................................................................................................ 442

Appendix C: TRG discussions and references in this publication ............................. 446

Appendix D: IFRS IC discussions and references in this publication ......................... 449

Appendix E: Defined terms ..................................................................................... 451

Appendix F: Changes to the standard since issuance .............................................. 452

Appendix G: Summary of important changes to this publication ............................. 453

Appendix H: Summary of differences from US GAAP .............................................. 456

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 6

What you need to know

• IFRS 15 provides a single source of revenue requirements for all entities in

all industries. It represents a significant change from legacy IFRS.

• IFRS 15 applies to revenue from contracts with customers and replaced

all of the legacy revenue standards and interpretations in IFRS, including

IAS 11 Construction Contracts, IAS 18 Revenue, IFRIC 13 Customer

Loyalty Programmes, IFRIC 15 Agreements for the Construction of Real

Estate, IFRIC 18 Transfers of Assets from Customers and SIC-31 Revenue

– Barter Transaction involving Advertising Services.

• IFRS 15 is principles-based, consistent with legacy revenue requirements,

but provides more application guidance. The lack of bright lines requires

increased judgement.

• The standard may have had little effect on some entities, but may have

required significant changes for others, especially those entities for which

legacy IFRS provided little application guidance.

• IFRS 15 also specifies the accounting treatment for certain items not

typically thought of as revenue, such as certain costs associated with

obtaining and fulfilling a contract and the sale of certain non-financial

assets.

7 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

1. Objective, effective date and transition

1.1 Overview of the standard

The revenue standards the Boards issued in May 2014 were largely converged

and superseded virtually all legacy revenue recognition requirements in IFRS

and US GAAP, respectively. The Boards’ goal in joint deliberations was to

develop revenue standards that:

•

Remove inconsistencies and weaknesses in the legacy revenue recognition

literature

•

Provide a more robust framework for addressing revenue recognition issues

•

Improve comparability of revenue recognition practices across industries,

entities within those industries, jurisdictions and capital markets

•

Reduce the complexity of applying revenue recognition requirements by

reducing the volume of the relevant standards and interpretations

•

Provide more useful information to users through expanded disclosure

requirements

The standards provide accounting requirements for all revenue arising from

contracts with customers. They affect all entities that enter into contracts to

provide goods or services to their customers, unless the contracts are in the

scope of other IFRSs or US GAAP requirements, such as those for leases. The

standards also specify the accounting for costs an entity incurs to obtain and

fulfil a contract to provide goods or services to customers (see section 9.3) and

provide a model for the measurement and recognition of gains and losses on

the sale of certain non-financial assets, such as property, plant or equipment

(see section 2.2.1).

IFRS 15 replaced all of the legacy revenue standards and interpretations

in IFRS, including IAS 11

Construction Contracts

, IAS 18

Revenue

IFRIC 13

Customer Loyalty Programmes

, IFRIC 15

Agreements for the

Construction of Real Estate

, IFRIC 18

Transfers of Assets from Customers

and SIC-31

Revenue – Barter Transactions Involving Advertising Services

After issuing the standards, the Boards have issued converged amendments on

certain topics (e.g., principal versus agent considerations) and different

amendments on other topics (e.g., licences of intellectual property). The FASB

has also issued several amendments that the IASB has not issued (e.g., non-

cash consideration, consideration payable). See Appendix F for a discussion of

the changes to the standards since issuance.

While we address the significant differences between the IASB’s final standard

and the FASB’s final standard throughout this publication, the primary purpose

of this publication is to describe the IASB’s standard, including all amendments

to date, and focus on the effects for IFRS preparers.

As such, we generally

refer to the ‘standard’ in the singular.

1.1.1 Core principle of the standard

The standard describes the principles an entity must apply to measure and

recognise revenue and the related cash flows. The core principle is that an

IFRS 15 (2016).IN5.

IFRS 15.C10.

For more information on the effect of the new revenue standard for US GAAP preparers,

refer to our Financial Reporting Developments: Revenue from contracts with customers

(ASC 606), Revised September 2019, available on EY AccountingLink.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 8

entity recognises revenue at an amount that reflects the consideration to

which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring goods

or services to a customer.

The principles in IFRS 15 are applied using the following five steps:

Identify the contract(s) with a customer

Identify the performance obligations in the contract

Determine the transaction price

Allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the

contract

Recognise revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance

obligation

Entities need to exercise judgement when considering the terms of

the contract(s) and all of the facts and circumstances, including implied

contract terms. Entities also have to apply the requirements of the

standard consistently to contracts with similar characteristics and in similar

circumstances.

To assist entities, IFRS 15 includes detailed application

guidance. The IASB also published more than 60 illustrative examples that

accompany IFRS 15. We list these examples in Appendix B to this publication

and provide references to where certain examples are included in this publication.

1.2 Effective date

IFRS 15 became effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after

1 January 2018. Early adoption was permitted, provided that fact was

disclosed.

FASB differences

The FASB’s standard became effective for public entities, as defined, for

fiscal years beginning after 15 December 2017 and for interim periods

therein.

Non-public entities (i.e., an entity that does not meet the definition

of a public entity in the FASB’s standard) are required to adopt the standard

for fiscal years beginning after 15 December 2018 and for interim periods

within fiscal years beginning after 15 December 2019. That is, non-public

entities are not required to apply the standard in interim periods in the year

of adoption.

US GAAP public and non-public entities were permitted to adopt the standard

as early as the original public entity effective date (i.e., fiscal years beginning

after 15 December 2016, including interim periods therein).

1.3 Transition methods (updated October 2018)

IFRS 15 requires retrospective application. However, it allows either a ’full

retrospective’ adoption (in which the standard is applied to all of the periods

IFRS 15.2.

IFRS 15.3.

The FASB’s standard defines a public entity as one of the following: A public business

entity (as defined); A not-for-profit entity that has issued, or is a conduit bond obligor for,

securities that are traded, listed or quoted on an exchange or an over-the-counter market;

An employee benefit plan that files or furnishes financial statements with the US SEC.

An entity may meet the definition of a public business entity solely because its financial

statements or financial information is included in another entity’s filing with the SEC. The

SEC staff said it would not object if these entities adopt the new revenue standard using

the effective date for non-public entities rather than the effective date for public entities.

9 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

presented) or a ‘modified retrospective’ adoption. See sections 1.3.2 and 1.3.3

below, respectively.

The following are the dates relevant to transition:

•

The

date of initial application

– the start of the reporting period in which

an entity first applies IFRS 15.

This date of initial application does not

change, regardless of the transition method that is applied. Examples of

dates of initial application for different year-ends include:

Year ending

Date of initial application

31 December 2018

1 January 2018

30 June 2019

1 July 2018

•

The

beginning of the earliest period presented

– the start of the earliest

reporting period presented within an entity’s financial statements for the

reporting period in which the entity first applies IFRS 15. This is relevant

for entities using the full retrospective adoption method. For example:

Beginning of the earliest period presented

Year ending

(one comparative

period)

(two comparative

periods)

31 December 2018

1 January 2017

1 January 2016

30 June 2019

1 July 2017

1 July 2016

1.3.1 Definition of a completed contract (updated September 2019)

IFRS 15 defines a completed contract as a contract in which the entity has

fully transferred all of the goods or services identified in accordance with legacy

IFRS.

Depending on the manner an entity elects to transition to IFRS 15, an

entity may not need to apply IFRS 15 to contracts if they have completed

performance before the date of initial application or the beginning of the

earliest period presented (depending on the practical expedient) (see

sections 1.3.2 and 1.3.3), even if they have not yet received the consideration

and that consideration is still subject to variability. Applying a completed

contract practical expedient might also affect an entity’s revenue recognition in

subsequent reporting periods. That is, if an entity applies a practical expedient

for completed contracts, it continues to apply its legacy revenue policy to its

completed contracts, instead of IFRS 15. In some cases, even though an entity

will have fully transferred its identified goods or services, there may still be

revenue to recognise in reporting periods after adoption of IFRS 15.

The IASB noted in the Basis for Conclusions that ‘transferred all of the goods

or services’ is not meant to imply that an entity would apply the ‘transfer of

control’ notion in IFRS 15 to goods or services that have been identified in

accordance with legacy IFRS. Rather, it is performance in accordance with

legacy requirements (i.e., those in IAS 11, IAS 18 and related Interpretations),

as noted in IFRS 15.BC441. “Consequently, in many situations the term

‘transferred’ would mean ‘delivered’ within the context of contracts for the sale

of goods and ‘performed’ within the context of contracts for rendering services

and construction contracts. In some situations, the entity would use judgement

when determining whether it has transferred goods or services to the

customer.”

IFRS 15.C2(a).

IFRS 15.C2(b).

IFRS 15.BC445D.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 10

Consider the following examples (assuming the modified retrospective

transition method is applied):

•

Contract is completed — a retailer sold products to a customer on

31 December 2017, with immediate delivery. The customer has a poor

credit history. Therefore, the retailer required the customer to pay half

of the consideration upfront and half within 60 days. In accordance with

IAS 18, the retailer recognised half of the consideration at the time of

the sale. However, the retailer concluded it was not probable that it would

be able to collect the remainder and deferred recognition of this amount.

Because the goods were delivered prior to the date of initial application of

IFRS 15 (e.g., 1 January 2018) and collectability concerns were only the

reason for delaying recognition of revenue under IAS 18, the contract is

considered completed under IFRS 15 (see Question 1-5 below).

•

Contract is not completed — an entity entered into a contract to provide

a service and loyalty points to a customer on 31 January 2017. In

accordance with IFRIC 13, the entity allocated a portion of the total

contract consideration to the loyalty points and deferred revenue

recognition until the points were exercised on 15 January 2018. The entity

completed the required service within six months and recognised revenue

related to the service over that period in accordance with IAS 18. As at

the date of initial application of IFRS 15 (e.g., 1 January 2018), the entity

had not yet performed in relation to the loyalty points. As a result, the

contract was not considered completed under IFRS 15 (see Question 1-7

below).

How we see it

As discussed above, determining which contracts are completed at transition

may require significant judgement, particularly if legacy IFRS did not provide

detailed requirements that indicated when goods had been delivered or

services performed (e.g., licences of intellectual property).

Entities should not consider elements of a contract that did not result in

recognition of revenue under legacy IFRS (e.g., warranty provisions) when

assessing whether a contract is complete.

FASB differences

The definition of a ‘completed contract’ is not converged between IFRS and

US GAAP. A completed contract under ASC 606 is defined as one for which

all (or substantially all) of the revenue was recognised in accordance with

legacy US GAAP that was in effect before the date of initial application.

The different definitions could lead to entities having a different population

of contracts to transition to the revenue standards under IFRS and US GAAP,

respectively. However, the Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that

an entity could avoid the consequences of these different definitions by

choosing to apply IFRS 15 retrospectively to all contracts, including

completed contracts.

As defined in ASC 606-10-65-1(c)(2).

IFRS 15.BC445I.

11 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions

Question 1-1: Which elements of a contract must be considered when

determining whether a contract meets the definition of a completed

contract?

An entity must consider all of the elements (or components) in a contract

that give rise to revenue in the scope of legacy IFRS. It should not consider

the elements of a contract that do not result in recognition of revenue

(e.g., warranty provisions accounted for in accordance with IAS 37

Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets

) when assessing

whether a contract is complete.

For example, under legacy IFRS, an entity may have accounted for a

financing component (i.e., separating the interest income or expense

from the revenue). Doing so effectively split the contract into a revenue

component and a financing component. In our view, the financing component

would not be considered in determining whether the goods or services have

transferred to the customer (i.e., it would not affect the assessment of

whether the contract meets the definition of a completed contract).

In addition, income elements that are not within the scope of IFRS 15 need

not be considered. For example, IAS 18 applied to dividends and provided

guidance on the recognition of interest and fees integral to the issuance of

a financial instrument. None of these elements would be considered when

determining whether a contract meets the definition of a completed contract

for transition to IFRS 15. This is because:

•

Dividends are not within the scope of IFRS 15.

•

The guidance that was previously included in the illustrative examples

to IAS 18 for fees integral to the issuance of a financial instrument is

now included within IFRS 9

Financial Instruments

•

Interest income will continue to be accounted for in accordance with

the effective interest method as set out in IFRS 9.

Question 1-2: Do the requirements in IFRS 15 for identifying a contract

(including contract duration) affect the identification of a contract under

legacy IFRS?

When determining whether a contract is completed, an entity considers

the requirements of legacy IFRS and not IFRS 15. In order to determine

whether a contract is completed, an entity needs to determine the boundaries

of a contract, including the term of the contract, whether it was combined

with other contracts, whether it was modified, etc. That is, an entity must

identify what is the contract in order to assess if it meets the definition of

a completed contract.

Considering the requirements of IFRS 15 could lead to different outcomes

from legacy IFRS. IFRS 15 provides detailed requirements to assist entities

in identifying a contract, including determining the contract duration.

These requirements are more detailed than legacy IFRS and could result in

outcomes that are different under IFRS 15 (e.g., an entity may conclude a

contract is of a shorter duration than the stated contractual term in certain

circumstances under IFRS 15. Refer to section 3.2 for further discussion).

IFRS 9.5.7.1A and IFRS.9.5.7.6.

IFRS 9.B5.4.1-B5.4.3.

IFRS 9 Appendix A, IFRS 9.5.4.1, IFRS 9.B5.4.1-B5.4.7.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 12

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

While legacy IFRS did not provide detailed requirements for identifying the

contract, accounting policies and an entity’s past practice may be informative

in identifying the contract, including determining: (a) what the entity

considered the contract to be (e.g., master supply agreement or individual

purchase orders); and (b) the contract duration (i.e., the stated contractual

term or a shorter period).

Consider the following examples:

Illustration 1-1 — Definition of completed contract: contract duration

Scenario 1

On 30 June 2016, Entity A entered into a contract with a customer to

provide services for 24 months. The customer was required to pay a fixed

monthly fee of CU150, which remained constant during the contract term

of 24 months, regardless of the time needed to provide the services or the

actual usage from the customer each day. The customer could cancel the

contract at any time without penalty by giving Entity A one month’s notice.

Entity A had not received any cancellation notice up to 1 January 2017

and, based on past experience, Entity A did not expect customers to cancel

within the first year. For this contract, Entity A concluded that the contract

duration under legacy IFRS was the stated contractual term of 24 months.

Entity A’s accounting policy for these types of contracts under IAS 18

stated that revenue from providing monthly services to customers was

recognised over the service period, on a monthly basis. While not explicitly

stated in its accounting policy, Entity A had typically treated the stated

contractual term as the duration of the contract (unless the customer

cancelled or the contract was modified), being the period over which the

contractual rights and obligations were enforceable.

Assume that Entity A adopts IFRS 15 on 1 January 2018 using the full

retrospective method. Entity A also uses the practical expedient in

IFRS 15.C5(a)(ii) not to restate contracts that meet the definition of

a completed contract, as defined in IFRS 15.C2(b), at the beginning of

the earliest period presented (i.e., 1 January 2017; Entity A presents

one comparative period only).

Under IFRS 15, Entity A is likely to conclude that the contract is a month-

to-month contract. However, when determining whether the contract is

completed, Entity A only considers legacy IFRS. Entity A might have noted

that its accounting policy under IAS 18 did not focus on the identification

of contract duration and, therefore, perhaps the contract is neither a 24-

month contract nor a month-to-month contract. Entity A had accounted

for this type of service contract based on monthly invoicing and, arguably,

that accounting treatment is similar to the accounting treatment of

a month-to-month contract. However, while not explicitly stated, Entity A

had generally viewed the stated contractual term as the period over which

the rights and obligations are enforceable.

13 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 1-1 — Definition of completed contract: contract duration

(cont’d)

Furthermore, Entity A cannot cancel the contract with the customer and

is obliged to render services for the entire contract period of 24 months,

unless a termination notice is provided by the customer which would limit

Entity A’s obligation to provide services for the next 30 days from the

notification date. Since no cancellation notice had been submitted by

the customer at least one month before 1 January 2017, approximately

18 months of services still had to be provided as at the beginning of

the earliest period presented (i.e., 1 January 2017). Therefore, Entity A

concludes that the contract does not meet the definition of a completed

contract and would need to be transitioned to IFRS 15.

Scenario 2

Assume the same facts as Scenario 1, with the exception that the

customer submitted an early termination notice on 30 November 2016.

Similar to Scenario 1, the contract duration under legacy IFRS would have

been the stated contractual term of 24 months. However, in this scenario,

the customer has submitted the termination notice on 30 November 2016.

Therefore, Entity A concludes that the term of the contract ceased on

31 December 2016.

Entity A cannot cancel the contract with the customer and is obliged

to render services for the entire contract period of 24 months, unless

a termination notice is provided by the customer which limits Entity A’s

obligation to provide service for the next 30 days from the notification

date. Since Entity A had provided all services prior to 31 December 2016,

Entity A concludes that the contract is a completed contract. Entity A

continues to apply its legacy accounting policy (developed in accordance

with IAS 18) to any remaining consideration still to be recognised.

Scenario 3

Assume the same facts as Scenario 1, with the exception that the

customer was required to pay a non-refundable upfront fee of CU50

at commencement of the contract (in addition to the monthly fixed fee).

The customer can cancel the contract at any time without penalty, with a

month’s notice period. The customer cancelled the contract on

30 November 2016.

In its financial statements, Entity A’s accounting policy for these types of

contracts under IAS 18 stated that revenues from non-refundable upfront

fees were deferred over the average customer retention period. The

customer retention period was estimated to be two years. Therefore,

the deferred revenue was recognised as revenue on a straight-line basis

over the next 24 months.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 14

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 1-1 — Definition of completed contract: contract duration

(cont’d)

Similar to Scenario 2, the contract duration under legacy IFRS would have

been the stated contractual term of 24 months. However, the customer

had submitted the termination notice on 30 November 2016 and,

therefore, Entity A concludes that the term of the contract ceased on

31 December 2016.

Entity A’s legacy accounting policy for the non-refundable upfront fee

referred to recognition of deferred income over the average customer

retention period, not the contractual term. The definition of a completed

contract is not dependent on all revenue being recognised, but rather on

all goods and services being transferred to the customer. Furthermore,

the period over which revenue is recognised does not affect the contract

duration. As such, recognition of this upfront fee is not relevant in

determining whether the contract is a completed contract. All previously

contracted services had been provided to the customer up to the date of

cancellation. Therefore, the contract is a completed contract.

Entity A continues applying its legacy accounting policy (developed

in accordance with IAS 18) to any remaining consideration still to be

recognised. However, given that the customer has terminated the contract

early, Entity A needs to reassess, in line with the requirements of IAS 18,

the period over which this remaining revenue arising from the non-

refundable upfront fee would be recognised.

Question 1-3: When determining whether an entity has ‘transferred all

goods or services’, does it consider the requirements of IFRS 15 for

‘transfer of control’?

No. The IASB noted in the Basis for Conclusions that ‘transferred all of

the goods or services’ is not meant to imply that an entity would apply the

‘transfer of control’ notion in IFRS 15 to goods or services that have been

identified in accordance with legacy IFRS. Rather, an entity is required to

determine whether it has transferred all the goods or services in accordance

with the requirements in legacy IFRS, as noted in IFRS 15.BC441 (see

Question 1-4 below).

“Consequently, in many situations the term ‘transferred’ would mean

‘delivered’ within the context of contracts for the sale of goods and

‘performed’ within the context of contracts for rendering services and

construction contracts. In some situations, the entity would use judgement

when determining whether it has transferred goods or services to the

customer”.

IFRS 15.BC445D.

15 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 1-4: If some or all of revenue has not been recognised under

legacy IFRS, would that prevent the contract from being completed?

Possibly. The definition of a completed contract is not dependent on an entity

having recognised all related revenue. However, the requirements in legacy

IFRS with respect to the timing of recognition may provide an indication of

whether the goods or services have been transferred.

IAS 18 provided the following five criteria, all of which needed to be satisfied

in order to recognise revenue from the sale of goods:

•

The entity had transferred to the buyer the significant risks and rewards

of ownership of the goods.

•

The entity retained neither continuing managerial involvement to the

degree usually associated with ownership nor effective control over

the goods sold.

•

The amount of revenue could be measured reliably.

•

It was probable that the economic benefits associated with the

transaction would flow to the entity.

•

The costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction could

be measured reliably.

IAS 18 viewed the passing of risks and rewards as the most crucial of the five

criteria, giving the following four examples of situations in which an entity

may have retained the significant risks and rewards of ownership:

•

When the entity retained an obligation for unsatisfactory performance

not covered by normal warranty provisions.

•

When the receipt of the revenue from a particular sale was contingent

on the derivation of revenue the buyer from its sale of the goods.

•

When the goods were shipped subject to installation and the installation

was a significant part of the contract which had not yet been completed

by the entity.

•

When the buyer had the right to rescind the purchase for a reason

specified in the sales contract and the entity was uncertain about the

probability of return.

Understanding the reasons for the accounting treatment under legacy IFRS

may, therefore, assist entities in determining whether the goods or services

have been transferred and the completed contract definition has been met.

However, judgement may be needed in respect of some goods or services.

Assume, for example, that an entity sells products, but cannot recognise

revenue immediately. The delayed recognition of revenue may be because of

factors related to the timing of transfer, such as a bill-and-hold arrangement,

or because the goods or services have been transferred, but not all of the

criteria for recognition have been met.

IAS 18.14.

IAS 18.16.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 16

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 1-5: If collectability concerns delayed recognition of revenue

under legacy IFRS, would that prevent the contract from being completed?

If collectability concerns were the only reason for delaying recognition

of revenue under legacy IFRS (i.e., because it was not probable that the

economic benefits associated with the transaction would flow to the entity),

it would not prevent a contract from meeting the definition of a completed

contract. However, it is important to ensure that this was the only reason for

the delay in recognition. Consider the following examples:

Illustration 1-2 — Definition of completed contract: collectability

Scenario 1

In November 2016, Entity A entered into a contract with a customer to

deliver 1,000 products with immediate delivery. Because of the customer’s

poor credit history, Entity A agreed that the customer could pay for 60%

of the products on the date of delivery and the remaining 40% within

60 days of the delivery date. Under its previous accounting policy (in

accordance with IAS 18.14), Entity A only recognised revenue for 60%

of the consideration and deferred recognition of the remaining 40% until

it was probable that this amount would be collected (provided the other

criteria in IAS 18.14 were met). Collectability of the remaining 40% of

the consideration became probable at the end of January 2017.

Assume that Entity A adopts IFRS 15 on 1 January 2018 and uses

the full retrospective method to transition. Entity A also uses the practical

expedient in IFRS 15.C5(a)(ii) not to restate contracts that meet the

definition of a completed contract, as defined in IFRS 15.C2(b), at the

beginning of the earliest period presented.

At the beginning of the earliest period presented (i.e., 1 January 2017;

Entity A presents one comparative period only), Entity A had transferred

all goods identified in the contract by delivering 1,000 products to the

customer and had recognised 60% of the revenue. Although Entity A

could only partially recognise the revenue from the sale of the 1,000

products (because it was not probable whether it would collect 40% of

the consideration), this does not affect the determination of whether the

identified goods were transferred to the customer. Therefore, Entity A

considers the contract as completed. Entity A continues to account for

the contract in accordance with its legacy accounting policy (developed in

accordance with IAS 18).

Scenario 2

In January 2016, Entity A entered into a contract with a customer to

construct a highly specialised system on the customer’s premises that

was expected to be completed within 11 months. The consideration of

CU100,000 took into account the particularities of the customer’s specific

premises. The repayment schedule corresponded to the performance

completed to date and Entity A applied the percentage of completion

method in accordance with IAS 11.25, recognising revenue in the

accounting period in which the relevant services were rendered.

17 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 1-2 — Definition of completed contract: collectability

(cont’d)

Upon completion of the highly specialised system, Entity A had collected

the consideration of CU100,000 and recognised an equal amount as

revenue. However, in October 2016, while executing the construction

activities, Entity A incurred unexpected additional costs to adjust the initial

design of the highly specialised system due to certain changes in the

customer’s premises that had not been communicated at contract

inception. Entity A filed a claim for these unexpected costs, requesting an

increase in the consideration of CU1,000. The construction was completed

in November 2016. In February 2017, Entity A agreed with its customer to

settle the claim at an amount of CU500 to be paid within three months.

Assume that Entity A adopts IFRS 15 on 1 January 2018 and uses the full

retrospective method to transition. Entity A also uses the practical

expedient in IFRS 15.C5(a)(ii) not to restate contracts that meet the

definition of a completed contract, as defined in IFRS 15.C2(b), at the

beginning of the earliest period presented.

At the beginning of the earliest period presented (i.e., 1 January 2017),

Entity A had transferred all goods and services identified in the contract by

completing the construction and delivering the highly specialised system

to the customer. The fact that Entity B had submitted a claim for additional

consideration for the identified goods and services that had already been

transferred to the customer is not relevant when determining whether

the identified goods or services have been transferred. Therefore, Entity A

considers the contract as completed. Entity A continues to account for

the contract in accordance with its legacy accounting policy (developed in

accordance with IAS 11).

Question 1-6: When did legacy IFRS consider licences to be transferred?

Legacy IFRS provided limited guidance to assist entities in determining when

a licence of intellectual property was transferred (i.e., when the significant

risks and rewards of ownership of the licence transferred to the customer in

accordance with IAS 18.14(a)). Therefore, entities need to use significant

judgement to determine whether a contract involving the licence of

intellectual property meets the definition of a completed contract.

IAS 18.33 stated that "royalties accrue in accordance with the terms of the

relevant agreement and are usually recognised on that basis unless, having

regard to the substance of the agreement, it is more appropriate to recognise

revenue on some other systematic and rational basis”. IAS 18.IE20 stated

that “fees and royalties paid for the use of an entity’s assets (such as

trademarks, patents, software, music copyright, record masters and motion

picture films) are normally recognised in accordance with the substance of

the agreement. As a practical matter, this may be on a straight-line basis over

the life of the agreement, for example, when a licensee has the right to use

certain technology for a specified period of time … In some cases, whether or

not a licence fee or royalty will be received is contingent on the occurrence of

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 18

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

a future event. In such cases, revenue is recognised only when it is probable

that the fee or royalty will be received, which is normally when the event has

occurred.”

Since the guidance provided in this paragraph and the illustrative examples to

IAS 18 focused on the recognition of revenue, it may be difficult to determine

when the entity transferred the significant risks and rewards of ownership to

the customer. If an entity has recognised revenue over time under legacy

IFRS, it needs to carefully assess the reason for this treatment.

It may be helpful to assess whether or not there were remaining or ongoing

obligations related to the licence, as discussed in IAS 18.IE20:

•

If the licence of intellectual property was an in-substance sale and there

were no remaining obligations to perform, it is likely that the significant

risks and rewards of ownership transferred to the customer at the time of

sale.

As discussed in IAS 18.IE20: “An assignment of rights for a fixed fee or

non-refundable guarantee under a non-cancellable contract which

permits the licensee to exploit those rights freely and the licensor has

no remaining obligations to perform is, in substance, a sale. An example

is a licensing agreement for the use of software when the licensor has

no obligations subsequent to delivery. Another example is the granting

of rights to exhibit a motion picture film in markets where the licensor

has no control over the distributor and expects to receive no further

revenues from the box office receipts. In such cases, revenue is

recognised at the time of sale.”

•

In all other instances, an entity needs to use judgement to determine

when the licensee could exploit the rights under the licence freely and the

licensor had no remaining obligations to perform. This may be helpful in

understanding whether the ongoing obligations mean that the significant

risks and rewards of ownership did not pass at a single point in time, but

over a period of time. Furthermore, this assessment could help in

determining whether it is over the entire licence period or a shorter

period and might include considering factors such as:

•

The reason that the contract is cancellable (if applicable)

•

The nature of any restrictions over use of the intellectual property.

For example, whether it is a characteristic of the licence itself (e.g.,

the countries covered by the licence) or restricts the licensor’s

ability to use the rights received (e.g., the licensor cannot use the

intellectual property before a specified date)

•

The nature of any remaining obligations and the period in/over which

those obligations apply

19 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Consider the following examples:

Illustration 1-3 — Definition of completed contract: licences

Scenario 1

On 1 January 2016, Entity A entered into a three-year contract that

granted rights to exhibit a film at cinemas and allowed for multiple

showings within a specific period for a non-refundable upfront fee of

CU9,000. The delivery of the film was the only activity that Entity A was

obliged to perform in the contract and there was no further involvement

or other obligations for Entity A. The film was delivered to the customer

on 1 January 2016 and Entitly A concluded that the significant risks and

rewards of ownership transferred on that date.

Entity A’s legacy IFRS accounting policy for this type of contracts stated

that revenue was recognised in full upon commencement of the licence

period, because that was the first point at which the customer had the

risks and rewards of ownership and all the criteria for revenue recognition

were met at that date.

Assume that Entity A adopts IFRS 15 on 1 January 2018 and uses the full

retrospective method to transition. Entity A also uses the practical

expedient in IFRS 15.C5(a)(ii) not to restate contracts that meet the

definition of a completed contract, as defined in IFRS 15.C2(b), at the

beginning of the earliest period presented.

According to Entity A’s previous accounting policy, revenue was

recognised in full upon commencement of the licence period (i.e., on

1 January 2016) and Entity A had no further involvement beyond that

point. Therefore, at the beginning of the earliest period presented

(i.e., 1 January 2017), the contract is completed. Entity A continues to

account for the contract in accordance with its legacy accounting policy

(developed in accordance with IAS 18).

Scenario 2

Assume the same facts as Scenario 1, with the exception that the fee

was contingent upon the occurrence of a future event, specifically the

purchase price was based on a percentage of the box office receipts during

the stated contract term (i.e., three years).

Entity A concluded that the significant risks and rewards of ownership

transferred to the customer on 1 January 2016, when the film was

delivered.

The existence of a sales-based royalty earned over the two-year period

after adoption of IFRS 15 does not affect the timing of transfer to the

customer because Entity A had no further obligations to perform. The

licence fee is contingent on box office receipts. In such cases, IAS 18.IE20

stated that “revenue is recognised only when it is probable that the fee or

royalty will be received, which is normally when the event has occurred.”

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 20

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 1-3 — Definition of completed contract: licences (cont’d)

However, this does not give rise to an additional obligation for Entity A.

Therefore, it does not affect the timing of transfer to the customer.

Therefore, at the beginning of the earliest period presented

(i.e., 1 January 2017), the contract is completed. Entity A continues to

account for the contract in accordance with its legacy accounting policy

(developed in accordance with IAS 18).

Scenario 3

Assume the same facts as Scenario 1, with the exception that, along

with the delivery of the film, Entity A supported the promotion of the films

through promotional and marketing campaigns for a period of 18 months

after the film was delivered to the customer.

Entity A’s legacy IFRS accounting policy for this type of contracts stated

that “promotional and marketing campaigns are not separately identifiable

components in a contract in which it grants rights to exhibit and broadcast

films. Revenue is recognised as the promotional and marketing campaigns

are performed on a straight-line basis over the period of the licence.”

Entity A concluded that, while the film was delivered on 1 January 2016,

the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the deliverable (i.e., the

film and services, together) did not transfer to the customer until the

services were provided (i.e., 30 June 2017).

The contract included multiple components because Entity A had to

provide promotional support services in addition to the delivery of the

licence. However, Entity A had considered IAS 18.13 and determined that

these services were not separately identifiable components to which

revenue needed to be allocated. Instead, revenue was recognised for both

the licence and the promotional support services during the licence period,

as Entity A provided the services.

The contract is not considered completed because Entity A had to transfer

additional services after transferring the right to exhibit the film. The fact

that Entity A had not separately allocated the consideration to each

component in the contract did not relieve it from its obligations to

undertake the promotional activities over the following 18 months.

Therefore, at the beginning of the earliest period presented

(i.e., 1 January 2017), Entity A still had to perform and provide the

remaining promotional support services to the customer up to 30 June

2017. Accordingly, the contract does not meet the definition of a

completed contract. The contract needs to be transitioned to IFRS 15.

21 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 1-7: When did legacy IFRS consider loyalty points to be

transferred?

Under legacy IFRS, an entity would not have ‘transferred’ loyalty points

granted to a customer until the points were redeemed or expired.

Entities need to carefully assess their loyalty programmes as points typically

arose from several contracts with the same customer(s). Since IFRIC 13

required that such programmes be treated as a revenue element in a

contract, rather than a cost accrual, a contract would not be considered

complete until the loyalty points arising from that contract have been

redeemed or have expired.

Entities that operate loyalty programmes may face practical challenges in

determining which contracts gave rise to unexpired and unused loyalty

points and, therefore, which contracts are not yet completed (and must be

transitioned to IFRS 15). Some entities may have data within their systems

that assist them in identifying those contracts for each customer. However,

if an entity has not specifically tracked such information by customer,

the terms and conditions of the loyalty programme may assist entities in

understanding whether/when points expire, in order to identify the likely

timing of the original transaction that gave rise to the point(s). Furthermore,

it may help to understand whether the entity used a first-in-first-out approach

to the utilisation of loyalty points or some other approach.

Consider the following example:

Illustration 1-4 — Definition of completed contract: loyalty

programmes

Entity A sells goods to retail customers. The customers can enter into

a loyalty programme such that when they purchase goods, they receive

1 loyalty point for every CU100 spent on goods purchased from Entity A.

Customers can redeem their accumulated loyalty points for discounts

on future purchases from Entity A. When redeemed, 1 point entitles the

customer to a CU1 discount, which is assumed to be the fair value of each

loyalty point. Points awarded expire in two years from the award day.

Entity A recognises revenue from sales of goods when customers buy

them at the point of sale. According to IFRIC 13, Entity A allocated the fair

value of the consideration received or receivable in respect of the initial

sale between the award points and the initial good sold.

On 1 November 2016, Entity A sold CU10,000 worth of goods and granted

100 loyalty points to a customer. Using a relative fair value approach,

Entity A allocated CU9,901 to the sale of goods and CU99 to the loyalty

points. The revenue from the sale of goods was recognised immediately.

However, revenue recognition for the loyalty points was deferred until the

points were exercised or expired. On 1 January 2017, the customer had

not used the points.

Assume that Entity A adopts IFRS 15 on 1 January 2018 and uses the full

retrospective approach to transition. Entity A also uses the practical

expedient in IFRS 15.C5(a)(ii) not to restate contracts that meet the

definition of a completed contract, as defined in IFRS 15.C2(b), at the

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 22

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 1-4 — Definition of completed contract: loyalty

programmes (cont’d)

beginning of the earliest period presented (i.e., 1 January 2017; Entity A

presents one comparative period only).

As at the beginning of the earliest period presented, Entity A concludes

that the loyalty points have not yet been exercised or expired.

At the beginning of the earliest period presented (i.e., 1 January 2017),

Entity A had delivered the goods to the customer that triggered the award

of the unredeemed loyalty points. However, at that date, Entity A had

not yet performed in relation to the loyalty points that represented a

separately identifiable component of the initial sale transaction in which

they were granted. Therefore, the contract does not meet the definition

of a completed contract. The contract needs to be transitioned to IFRS 15.

1.3.2 Full retrospective adoption (updated October 2018)

Entities electing the full retrospective adoption must apply the provisions of

IFRS 15 to each period presented in the financial statements, in accordance

with IAS 8

Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors,

subject to the practical expedients created to provide relief, as discussed below.

Extract from IAS 8

Applying changes in accounting policies

19. Subject to paragraph 23:

(a) an entity shall account for a change in accounting policy resulting from

the initial application of an IFRS in accordance with the specific

transitional provisions, if any, in that IFRS; and

(b) when an entity changes an accounting policy upon initial application of

an IFRS that does not include specific transitional provisions applying to

that change, or changes an accounting policy voluntarily, it shall apply

the change retrospectively.

20. For the purpose of this Standard, early application of an IFRS is not

a voluntary change in accounting policy.

21. In the absence of an IFRS that specifically applies to a transaction, other

event or condition, management may, in accordance with paragraph 12,

apply an accounting policy from the most recent pronouncements of other

standard-setting bodies that use a similar conceptual framework to develop

accounting standards. If, following an amendment of such a pronouncement,

the entity chooses to change an accounting policy, that change is accounted

for and disclosed as a voluntary change in accounting policy.

23 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IAS 8 (cont’d)

Retrospective application

22. Subject to paragraph 23, when a change in accounting policy is applied

retrospectively in accordance with paragraph 19(a) or (b), the entity shall

adjust the opening balance of each affected component of equity for the

earliest prior period presented and the other comparative amounts disclosed

for each prior period presented as if the new accounting policy had always

been applied.

Limitations on retrospective application

23. When retrospective application is required by paragraph 19(a) or (b),

a change in accounting policy shall be applied retrospectively except to the

extent that it is impracticable to determine either the period-specific effects

or the cumulative effect of the change.

24. When it is impracticable to determine the period-specific effects of

changing an accounting policy on comparative information for one or more

prior periods presented, the entity shall apply the new accounting policy

to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities as at the beginning of the

earliest period for which retrospective application is practicable, which may

be the current period, and shall make a corresponding adjustment to the

opening balance of each affected component of equity for that period.

25. When it is impracticable to determine the cumulative effect, at the

beginning of the current period, of applying a new accounting policy to all

prior periods, the entity shall adjust the comparative information to apply

the new accounting policy prospectively from the earliest date practicable.

26. When an entity applies a new accounting policy retrospectively, it applies

the new accounting policy to comparative information for prior periods as

far back as is practicable. Retrospective application to a prior period is not

practicable unless it is practicable to determine the cumulative effect on the

amounts in both the opening and closing statements of financial position

for that period. The amount of the resulting adjustment relating to periods

before those presented in the financial statements is made to the opening

balance of each affected component of equity of the earliest prior period

presented. Usually the adjustment is made to retained earnings. However,

the adjustment may be made to another component of equity (for example,

to comply with an IFRS). Any other information about prior periods, such

as historical summaries of financial data, is also adjusted as far back as is

practicable.

27. When it is impracticable for an entity to apply a new accounting policy

retrospectively, because it cannot determine the cumulative effect of

applying the policy to all prior periods, the entity, in accordance with

paragraph 25, applies the new policy prospectively from the start of the

earliest period practicable. It therefore disregards the portion of the

cumulative adjustment to assets, liabilities and equity arising before that

date. Changing an accounting policy is permitted even if it is impracticable to

apply the policy prospectively for any prior period. Paragraphs 50–53 provide

guidance on when it is impracticable to apply a new accounting policy to one

or more prior periods.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 24

Under the full retrospective method, entities have to apply IFRS 15 as if it

had been applied since the inception of all its contracts with customers that

are presented in the financial statements. That is, an entity electing the full

retrospective method has to transition all of its contracts with customers

to IFRS 15 (subject to the practical expedients described below), not just

those that are not considered completed contracts as at the beginning of the

earliest period presented. This means that for contracts that were considered

completed (as defined) before the beginning of the earliest period, an entity still

needs to evaluate the contract under IFRS 15 in order to determine whether

there was an effect on revenue recognised in any of the years presented in the

period of initial application (unless an entity elects to use one of the practical

expedients described below).

During deliberations on the original standard, the IASB seemed to prefer the full

retrospective method, under which all contracts with customers are recognised

and measured consistently in all periods presented within the financial

statements, regardless of when the contracts were entered into. This method

also provides users of the financial statements with useful trend information

across all periods presented.

However, to ease the potential burden of applying it on a fully retrospective

basis, the IASB provided the following practical expedients:

Extract from IFRS 15

C3. An entity shall apply this Standard using one of the following two

methods:

(a) retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented in accordance

with IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and

Errors, subject to the expedients in paragraph C5; or

…

C5. An entity may use one or more of the following practical expedients when

applying this Standard retrospectively in accordance with paragraph C3(a):

(a) for completed contracts, an entity need not restate contracts that:

(i) begin and end within the same annual reporting period; or

(ii) are completed contracts at the beginning of the earliest period

presented.

(b) for completed contracts that have variable consideration, an entity may

use the transaction price at the date the contract was completed rather

than estimating variable consideration amounts in the comparative

reporting periods.

25 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

period presented, an entity need not retrospectively restate the contract

for those contract modifications in accordance with paragraphs 20-21.

Instead, an entity shall reflect the aggregate effect of all of the

modifications that occur before the beginning of the earliest period

presented when:

(i) identifying the satisfied and unsatisfied performance obligations;

(ii) determining the transaction price; and

(iii) allocating the transaction price to the satisfied and unsatisfied

performance obligations.

(d) for all reporting periods presented before the date of initial application,

an entity need not disclose the amount of the transaction price allocated

to the remaining performance obligations and an explanation of when the

entity expects to recognise that amount as revenue (see paragraph 120).

C6. For any of the practical expedients in paragraph C5 that an entity uses,

the entity shall apply that expedient consistently to all contracts within all

reporting periods presented. In addition, the entity shall disclose all of the

following information:

(a) the expedients that have been used; and

(b) to the extent reasonably possible, a qualitative assessment of the

estimated effect of applying each of those expedients.

While the practical expedients provide some relief, an entity still needs to use

judgement and make estimates. For example, an entity needs to use judgement

in estimating stand-alone selling prices when there has been a wide range of

selling prices and when allocating the transaction price to satisfied and

unsatisfied performance obligations if there have been several performance

obligations or contract modifications over an extended period. Furthermore,

if an entity applies the practical expedient for contract modifications, it is still

required to apply the standard’s contract modification requirements (see

section 3.4) to modifications made after the beginning of the earliest period

presented under IFRS 15 (e.g., modifications made after 1 January 2017 for an

entity with a 31 December year-end that adopts the standard using the full

retrospective method and presents one comparative period only).

Illustration 1-5 — Transition practical expedient for contract

modifications

Entity A entered into a contract with a customer to sell equipment for

CU1 million and provide services for five years for CU20,000 annually.

The equipment was delivered on 1 January 2013 and the service contract

commenced at that time. The equipment and the service contract are separate

performance obligations.

In 2015, the contract was modified to extend it by five years and to provide

an additional piece of equipment for CU1 million. The additional equipment

will be delivered during 2018 and is a separate performance obligation.

Entity A elects to apply the practical expedient on contract modifications in

accordance with IFRS 15.C5(c).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 26

Illustration 1-5 — Transition practical expedient for contract

modifications (cont’d)

The total transaction price for the modified contract is CU2,200,000

[CU1 million (equipment) + CU1 million (equipment) + (10 years x CU20,000

(service))], which is allocated to the two products and the service contract

based on the relative stand-alone selling price of each performance

obligation. See section 6 for discussion on allocating the transaction price

to performance obligations.

The transaction price allocated to the second piece of equipment and the

remaining unperformed services would be recognised when or as they are

transferred to the customer.

FASB differences

The FASB’s standard includes a similar practical expedient for contract

modifications at transition for entities that elect to apply the full

retrospective method. Entities would also apply the FASB’s practical

expedient to all contract modifications that occur before the beginning

of the earliest period presented under the standard in the financial

statements. However, this could be a different date for IFRS preparers

and US GAAP preparers depending on the number of comparative periods

included within an entity’s financial statements (e.g., US GAAP preparers

often include two comparative periods in their financial statements) and

whether an entity is a public or non-public entity for US GAAP purposes (see

section 1.2).

Unlike IFRS 15, the FASB’s standard does not allow an entity that uses the

full retrospective method to apply ASC 606 only to contracts that are not

completed (as defined) as at the beginning of the earliest period presented.

An entity that elects to apply the standard retrospectively must also provide

the disclosures required in IAS 8, as follows:

Extract from IAS 8

Disclosure

28. When initial application of an IFRS has an effect on the current period or

any prior period, would have such an effect except that it is impracticable to

determine the amount of the adjustment, or might have an effect on future

periods, an entity shall disclose:

(a) the title of the IFRS;

(b) when applicable, that the change in accounting policy is made in

accordance with its transitional provisions;

(d) when applicable, a description of the transitional provisions;

(e) when applicable, the transitional provisions that might have an effect

on future periods;

27 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IAS 8 (cont’d)

(f) for the current period and each prior period presented, to the extent

practicable, the amount of the adjustment.

(i) for each financial statement line item affected; and

(ii) if IAS 33 Earnings per Share applies to the entity, for basic and

diluted earnings per share;

(g) the amount of the adjustment relating to periods before those presented,

to the extent practicable; and

(h) if retrospective application required by paragraph 19(a) or (b) is

impracticable for a particular prior period, or for periods before those

presented, the circumstances that led to the existence of that condition

and a description of how and from when the change in accounting policy

has been applied.

Financial statements of subsequent periods need not repeat these

disclosures.

An entity must make the above disclosures in the period in which a new

standard is applied for the first time. Financial statements in subsequent periods

need not repeat the required disclosures. The IASB provided some additional

relief from disclosures (through optional practical expedients) for an entity that

elects to apply IFRS 15 on a fully retrospective basis. Although permitted to

do so, an entity need not present the quantitative information required by

IAS 8.28(f) for periods other than the annual period immediately preceding

the first annual period for which IFRS 15 is applied (the ‘immediately preceding

period’).

Frequently asked questions

Question 1-8: Does an entity have to apply elected practical expedients to

all periods and to all contracts?

Yes. Entities may elect to apply none, some, or all of the practical expedients.

However, if an entity elects to use a practical expedient, it must apply it

consistently to all contracts within all periods presented under IFRS 15. It

would not be appropriate to apply the selected practical expedient to some,

but not all, of the periods presented under IFRS 15. Entities that choose to

use some, or all, of the practical expedients are required to provide additional

qualitative disclosures (i.e., the types of practical expedients the entity has

applied and the likely effect of their application).

Question 1-9: If an entity is able to exclude from transition those contracts

that are completed (e.g., because it applies one of the optional practical

expedients), how does it account for those completed contracts?

Depending on the way in which an entity adopts IFRS 15, it may be able to

exclude contracts that meet the definition of a completed contract from the

population of contracts to be transitioned to IFRS 15 (i.e., it would not

need to restate those contracts). This is illustrated in section 1.3.1 in

Illustrations 1-1 through 1-4.

IFRS 15.C6.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 28

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

The Basis for Conclusions clarifies that “if an entity chooses not to apply IFRS

15 to completed contracts in accordance with paragraph C5(a)(ii) or

paragraph C7, only contracts that are not completed contracts are included

in the transition to IFRS 15. The entity would continue to account for the

completed contracts in accordance with its accounting policies based on

legacy IFRS”.

For example, an entity might elect to apply the standard retrospectively

using the full retrospective method and use the practical expedient in

IFRS 15.C5(a)(ii) not to restate contracts that meet the definition of a

completed contract at the beginning of the earliest period presented

(i.e., 1 January 2017 for an entity with a 31 December year-end that

presents one comparative period only). Therefore, the entity also does not

record an asset for incremental costs to obtain contracts under IFRS 15 (see

section 9.3.1) that meet the definition of a completed contract as at the

beginning of the earliest period presented. Furthermore, any assets or

liabilities related to completed contracts that are on the balance sheet prior

to the date of the earliest period presented continue to be accounted for

under legacy IFRS after the adoption of IFRS 15. Note that a similar optional

practical expedient is available under the modified retrospective method (see

section 1.3.3).

1.3.3 Modified retrospective adoption (updated October 2018)

The standard provides the following requirements for entities applying the

modified retrospective transition method:

Extract from IFRS 15

C3. An entity shall apply this Standard using one of the following two

methods:

(a) …

(b) retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying this

Standard recognised at the date of initial application in accordance with

paragraphs C7–C8.

…

C7. If an entity elects to apply this Standard retrospectively in accordance

with paragraph C3(b), the entity shall recognise the cumulative effect of

initially applying this Standard as an adjustment to the opening balance of

retained earnings (or other component of equity, as appropriate) of the

annual reporting period that includes the date of initial application. Under this

transition method, an entity may elect to apply this Standard retrospectively

only to contracts that are not completed contracts at the date of initial

application (for example, 1 January 2018 for an entity with a 31 December

year-end).

IFRS 15.BC445E.

29 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

C7A. An entity applying this Standard retrospectively in accordance with

paragraph C3(b) may also use the practical expedient described in

paragraph C5(c), either:

(a) for all contract modifications that occur before the beginning of the

earliest period presented; or

(b) for all contract modifications that occur before the date of initial

application.

If an entity uses this practical expedient, the entity shall apply the expedient

consistently to all contracts and disclose the information required by

paragraph C6.

C8. For reporting periods that include the date of initial application, an entity

shall provide both of the following additional disclosures if this Standard is

applied retrospectively in accordance with paragraph C3(b):

(a) the amount by which each financial statement line item is affected in the

current reporting period by the application of this Standard as compared

to IAS 11, IAS 18 and related Interpretations that were in effect before

the change; and

(b) an explanation of the reasons for significant changes identified in C8(a).

Entities that elect the modified retrospective method apply the standard

retrospectively to only the most current period presented in the financial

statements (i.e., the initial period of application). To do so, the entity has to

recognise the cumulative effect of initially applying IFRS 15 as an adjustment

to the opening balance of retained earnings (or other appropriate components

of equity) at the date of initial application.

How we see it

When an entity applies the modified retrospective method, there is no effect

on the statement of financial position as at the beginning of the preceding

period (third statement of financial position according to IAS 1.40A).

Furthermore, IFRS 15 does not require an entity to provide restated

comparative information in its financial statements or in the notes to

the financial statements (e.g., disaggregated revenue disclosures in the

comparative period) under this method. Therefore, we believe the inclusion

of a third statement of financial position as at that date is not required.

Under this method, IFRS 15 is applied either to all contracts at the date

of initial application (e.g., 1 January 2018 for an entity with a 31 December

year-end, see section 1.2 above) or only to contracts that are not completed at

this date. Depending on how an entity elects to apply the modified retrospective

method, it has to evaluate either all contracts or only those that are not

completed before the date of initial application, as if the entity had applied the

standard to them since inception. An entity is required to disclose how it has

applied the modified retrospective method (i.e., either to all contracts or only to

contracts that are not completed at the date of initial application).

An entity may choose to apply the modified retrospective method to all

contracts as at the date of initial application (rather than only to contracts that

are not completed) in order to apply the same accounting to similar contracts

after the date of adoption. Consider the example discussed in section 1.3.1,

a sale by a retailer on 31 December 2017, the contract in that example is

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 30

considered a completed contract at the date of initial application

(e.g., 1 January 2018 for an entity with a 31 December year-end). If the retailer

adopts the standard only for contracts that are not completed, it would not

restate revenue for this contract and would continue to account for the

remaining revenue to be recognised under legacy IFRS (i.e., IAS 18) after

adoption of IFRS 15. However, any similar sales on or after the date of initial

application would be subject to the requirements of IFRS 15. Accordingly, if the

retailer prefers to account for similar transactions under the same accounting

model, it could choose to adopt the standard for all contracts, rather than only

to those that are not completed at the date of initial application.

How we see it

Entities that use the modified retrospective method need to make the

election in IFRS 15.C7 at the entity-wide level. That is, they need to carefully

consider whether to apply the standard to all contracts or only to contracts

that are not completed at the date of initial application, considering the

totality of all of the entity’s revenue streams and the potential disparity in

accounting treatment for the same or similar types of transactions after they

adopt the standard.

Under the modified retrospective method, an entity:

•

Presents comparative periods in accordance with IAS 11, IAS 18 and

related Interpretations

•

Applies IFRS 15 to new and existing contracts (either all existing contracts

or only contracts that are not completed contracts) from the effective date

onwards

•

Recognises a cumulative catch-up adjustment to the opening balance of

retained earnings (or other component of equity, as appropriate) at the

effective date either for all contracts or only for existing contracts that still

require performance by the entity in the year of adoption

•

Discloses the amount by which each financial statement line item was

affected as a result of applying IFRS 15 and an explanation of significant

changes

An entity that chooses the modified retrospective method can use only one of

the five practical expedients available to entities that apply the full retrospective

method, being the one relating to contract modifications. However, under

the modified retrospective method, entities can choose whether to apply this

expedient to all contract modifications that occur before either: (a) the beginning

of the earliest period presented (e.g., before 1 January 2017 if an entity with a

31 December year-end presents only one comparative period); or (b) the date of

initial application (e.g., 1 January 2018 for an entity with a 31 December year-

end). Under the expedient, an entity can reflect the aggregate effect of all

modifications that occur before either of these dates under IFRS 15 when

identifying the satisfied and unsatisfied performance obligations, determining

the transaction price and allocating the transaction price to the satisfied and

unsatisfied performance obligations for the modified contract at transition.

An entity that uses this expedient has to identify all contract modifications from

the inception of the contract until either: (a) the beginning of the earliest period

presented under IFRS 15; or (b) the date of initial application. It then has to

determine how each modification affected the identification of performance

obligations as at the modification date. However, the entity would not need to

31 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

determine or allocate the transaction price as at the date of each modification.

Instead, at the beginning of the earliest period presented under the standard or

the date of initial application of the standard, the entity would determine

the transaction price for all satisfied and unsatisfied performance obligations

identified in the contract from contract inception. The entity would then perform

a single allocation of the transaction price to those performance obligations,

based on their relative stand-alone selling prices. See Illustration 1-5 in

section 1.3.2.

If an entity electing the modified retrospective method uses the practical

expedient for contract modifications, it is required to provide additional

qualitative disclosures (i.e., the type of practical expedients the entity applied

and the likely effects of that application).

While this practical expedient provides some relief, an entity still needs

to use judgement and make estimates. For example, an entity needs to use

judgement in estimating stand-alone selling prices when there has been a wide

range of selling prices and when allocating the transaction price to satisfied and

unsatisfied performance obligations if there have been several performance

obligations or contract modifications over an extended period. Furthermore,

depending on how the entity elects to adopt the practical expedient, it is required

to apply the standard’s contract modification requirements (see section 3.4) to

either: (a) modifications made after the beginning of the earliest period

presented under the standard (e.g., modifications made after 1 January 2017

for an entity with a 31 December year-end that presents one comparative period

only); or (b) modifications made after the date of initial application

(e.g., modifications made after 1 January 2018 for an entity with a

31 December year-end that presents one comparative period only).

FASB differences

The FASB’s standard includes a similar practical expedient for contract

modifications at transition. However, ASC 606 only permits an entity to

apply the practical expedient under the modified retrospective method to

contract modifications that occur before the beginning of the earliest period

presented under the standard in the financial statements (e.g., 1 January

2018 for an entity with a 31 December year-end).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 32

The following example illustrates the potential effects of the modified

retrospective method:

Illustration 1-6 — Cumulative effect of adoption under the modified

retrospective method

A software vendor with a 31 December year-end adopts IFRS 15 on

1 January 2018. The vendor adopts the standard using the modified

retrospective method and elects to apply IFRS 15 only to contracts that

are not completed.

The vendor frequently enters into contracts to provide a software licence,

professional services and post-delivery service support. It previously

accounted for its contracts in accordance with IAS 18, particularly

IAS 18.IE19. As a result, it recognised fees from the development of its

software by reference to the stage of completion of the development, which

included the completion of post-delivery service support services. In effect,

the software vendor treated the development of software and post-delivery

service support as a single deliverable.

IFRS 15 provides more detailed requirements for determining whether

promised goods or services are performance obligations (discussed further

in section 4.2) than IAS 18 provided regarding the number of deliverables

to identify.

As a result, the vendor’s analysis of contracts in progress as at

1 January 2018 may result in the identification of different performance

obligations from those it previously used for revenue recognition. As part

of this assessment, the entity needs to allocate the estimated transaction

price, based on the relative stand-alone selling price method

(see section 6.2), to the newly identified performance obligations.

The vendor compares the revenue recognised for each contract, from

contract inception through to 31 December 2017, to the amount that

would have been recognised if the entity had applied IFRS 15 since contract

inception. The difference between those two amounts is accounted

for as a cumulative catch-up adjustment and recognised as at 1 January

2018 in opening retained earnings. From 1 January 2018 onwards, revenue

recognised is based on IFRS 15.

An entity that elects to apply the modified retrospective method is required to

make certain disclosures in the year of initial application. Specifically, the entity

must disclose the amount by which each financial statement line item is affected

as a result of applying IFRS 15. Furthermore, an entity must disclose an

explanation of the reasons for any significant changes between the reported

results under IFRS 15 and under IAS 11, IAS 18 and related Interpretations.

33 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

How we see it

Depending on an entity’s prior accounting policies, applying the modified

retrospective method may be more difficult than an entity would anticipate.

Situations that may make application under this method more complex

include the following:

• The performance obligations identified under IFRS 15 are different from

the elements/deliverables identified under legacy requirements.

• The relative stand-alone selling price allocation required by IFRS 15

results in different amounts of the consideration being allocated to

performance obligations than had been allocated in the past.

• The contract contains variable consideration and the amount of variable

consideration that can be included in the allocable consideration differs

from the amount under legacy requirements.

In addition, the modified retrospective method effectively requires an entity

to keep two sets of accounting records in the year of adoption, in order to

comply with the requirement to disclose all affected financial statement line

items as if they were prepared under legacy IFRS.

Frequently asked questions

Question 1-10: An entity applying the modified retrospective method either

applies it to all contracts at the date of initial application or only to

contracts that are not completed at this date. Is this election made at the

reporting entity-level?

Yes. Reporting entities that use the modified retrospective method need to

make this election at the entity-wide level. They need to carefully consider

whether to apply the standard to all contracts or only to contracts that are

not completed at the date of initial application, considering the totality of

all of the reporting entity’s revenue streams and the potential disparity in

accounting treatment for the same or similar types of transactions after they

adopt the standard.

Question 1-11: Does an entity have to apply elected practical expedients to

all periods and to all contracts?

See response to Question 1-8 in section 1.3.2.

Question 1-12: If an entity is able to exclude from transition those contracts

that are completed (e.g., because it applies one of the optional practical

expedients), how does it account for those completed contracts?

See response to Question 1-9 in section 1.3.2.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 34

1.3.4 Transition disclosures in interim financial statements in the year of

adoption (updated October 2018)

IAS 34

Interim Financial Reporting

requires an entity to disclose changes in

accounting policies, including the effect on prior years that are included in the

condensed interim financial statements. Furthermore, it requires that, in the

event of a change in accounting policy, an entity discloses “a description of the

nature and effect of the change”.

In light of these requirements, higher-level

transition disclosures than those required for annual financial statements in

accordance with IAS 8 may be sufficient in condensed interim financial

statements.

If an entity prepares more than one set of interim financial statements during

the year of adoption of IFRS 15 (e.g., quarterly), it should provide information

consistent with that which was disclosed in its first interim financial report, but

updated for the latest information. In some cases, the additional disclosures in

a subsequent interim period only relate to the subsequent interim period as

IAS 34 allows for cross-referencing to other documents available on the same

terms, such as previous interim financial statements.

Entities need to consider the views of local regulators when planning not to

repeat in the current interim financial statements any disclosures already

included in previous interim reports or other documents. This is because

there are different views among regulators as to whether the policy and

impact disclosures need to be repeated in full in each set of interim financial

statements issued during the year or whether cross-referencing to earlier

interim financial statements or other documents outside the current interim

report is acceptable. As an example, in April 2018, ESMA published the annual

report Enforcement and Regulatory Activities of Accounting Enforcers in 2017

In it, ESMA clarified that they expect issuers applying IFRS 15 using a modified

retrospective approach to provide the disclosures required by IFRS 15.C8 in all

interim periods that include the date of initial application of IFRS 15.

However, if, for instance, an entity becomes aware of new information about

the impact of IFRS 15 at the date of initial application in a subsequent interim

period, then the previously reported impact disclosures will have to be updated

in that subsequent interim period.

Local regulators may have additional requirements. For example, foreign

private issuers reporting under IFRS that are required to file interim financial

statements may have been affected by the SEC’s reporting requirement to

provide both the annual and interim period disclosures prescribed by the new

accounting standard, to the extent not duplicative, in certain interim financial

statements in the year of adoption.

In addition to these requirements, as discussed in section 10.7, entities need to

provide disaggregated revenue disclosures in their condensed interim financial

statements, both in the year of adoption and on an ongoing basis.

IAS 34.16A(a).

See IAS 8.28 for the annual disclosure requirements.

See IAS 34.16A.

Paragraph 63 of ESMA Report Enforcement and Regulatory Activities of Accounting

Enforcers in 2017 available on ESMA’s website.

Section 1500 of the SEC’s Division of Corporation Finance’s Financial Reporting Manual,

Interim Period Reporting Considerations (All Filings): Interim Period Financial Statement

Disclosures upon Adoption of a New Accounting Standard.

35 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

1.3.5 Other transition considerations

Regardless of the transition method they choose, many entities have to apply

the standard to contracts entered into in prior periods. The population

of contracts will be larger under the full retrospective method. However,

under the modified retrospective method, at a minimum, entities have to

apply IFRS 15 to all contracts that are not completed as at the date of initial

application, regardless of when those contracts commenced.

The Board has provided some relief from a full retrospective method, in the

form of several practical expedients, and provided the option of a modified

retrospective method, which provides one practical expedient. However, there

are still a number of implementation issues that may make transitioning to IFRS

15 difficult and/or time-consuming, for example:

•

Entities have to perform an allocation of the transaction price because of

changes to the identified deliverables, the transaction price or both. If an

entity previously performed a relative fair value allocation, this step may be

straightforward. Regardless, an entity is required to determine the stand-

alone selling price of each performance obligation as at inception of the

contract. Depending on the age of the contract, this information may not be

readily available and the prices may differ significantly from current stand-

alone selling prices. While the standard is clear as to when it is acceptable

to use hindsight in respect of variable consideration to determine

the transaction price (see section 5.2 for a discussion on variable

consideration), it is silent on whether the use of hindsight is acceptable

for other aspects of the model (e.g., for the purpose of allocating the

transaction price) or whether it is acceptable to use current pricing

information if that were the only information available.

•

Estimating variable consideration for all contracts for prior periods is likely

to require significant judgement. The standard is clear that hindsight

cannot be used for contracts that are not completed when applying the

full retrospective method. The standard is silent on whether the use of

hindsight is acceptable for entities applying the modified retrospective

method. However, the Board’s discussion in the Basis for Conclusions implies

that it originally intended to provide no practical expedients for the modified

retrospective method.

Furthermore, since entities applying the modified

retrospective method may only be adjusting contracts that are not

completed, it seems likely that the use of hindsight is not acceptable.

As a result, entities must make this estimate based only on information

that was available at contract inception. Contemporaneous documentation

clarifying what information was available to management, and when it

was available, is likely to be needed to support these estimates. In addition

to estimating variable consideration using the expected value or the most

likely amount method, entities have to make conclusions about whether

such variable consideration is subject to the constraint (see section 5.2.3

for further discussion).

See IFRS 15.BC439-BC443.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 36

•

The modified retrospective method does not require entities to restate

the amounts reported in prior periods. However, at the date of initial

application, entities electing this method still have to calculate, either for

all contracts or only for contracts that are not completed (depending

on how the entity elects to apply this transition method), the revenues

they would have recognised as if they had applied IFRS 15 since contract

inception. This is needed in order to determine the cumulative effect of

adopting the standard. It is likely to be most challenging for contracts in

which the identified elements/deliverables or allocable consideration

change when IFRS 15 is applied.

Finally, entities need to consider a number of other issues as they adopt

IFRS 15. For example, entities with significant deferred revenue balances under

legacy IFRS may experience what some refer to as ’lost revenue’ if those

amounts are ultimately reflected in the restated prior periods or as part of the

cumulative adjustment upon adoption, but are never reported as revenue in a

current period within the financial statements.

1.3.6 First-time adopters of IFRS (updated October 2018)

IFRS 1

First-time adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards

applies

(and not IFRS 15) when an entity adopts IFRS 15 as part of its first time-

adoption of IFRS.

IFRS 1 requires full retrospective adoption. However, a first-time adopter may

apply the optional practical expedients included in IFRS 15.C5 (i.e., those that

are available for entities applying the full retrospective method, see 1.3.2

above). However, if a first-time adopter decides to apply any of those optional

practical expedients, it must provide the disclosures required by IFRS 15.C6

(i.e., the types of practical expedients the entity has applied and the likely effect

of their application).

IFRS 1 also permits a first-time adopter not to restate contracts that were

completed before the earliest period presented (see section 1.3.1). In

determining whether a first-time adopter of IFRS has transferred all of the

goods or services, it refers to the requirements under its previous GAAP.

Also, in order to apply the optional practical expedients in IFRS 15.C5, a first-

time adopter should read references to the ‘date of initial application’ as the

beginning of the first IFRS reporting period.

How we see it

Although IFRS 1 provides the same optional practical expedients available

for IFRS preparers applying the full retrospective method, adoption of IFRS

15 by first-time adopters may be challenging. For example, determination of

completed contracts may be practically challenging if the first-time adopters’

previous accounting standards were not clear about when the goods or

services had been transferred.

IFRS 1.D34.

IFRS 1.D35.

IFRS 1.D34.

37 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

2. Scope

2.1 Scope of IFRS 15

IFRS 15 applies to all entities and all contracts with customers to provide goods

or services in the ordinary course of business, except for the following

contracts, which are specifically excluded:

• Lease contracts within the scope of IFRS 16 Leases (or IAS 17 Leases, prior

to adoption of IFRS 16)

• Insurance contracts within the scope of IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts (or

contracts within the scope of IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts, when effective,

except when an entity elects to apply IFRS 15 to certain service contracts in

accordance with IFRS 17.8)

• Financial instruments and other contractual rights or obligations within

the scope of IFRS 9 Financial Instruments,

IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial

Statements, IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements, IAS 27 Separate Financial

Statements and IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

• Non-monetary exchanges between entities in the same line of business to

facilitate sales to customers or potential customers

Arrangements must meet the criteria set out in IFRS 15.9, which are discussed

in section 3.1, to be accounted for as a revenue contract under the standard.

For certain arrangements, entities have to evaluate their relationship with the

counterparty to the contract in order to determine whether a vendor-customer

relationship exists. Some collaboration arrangements, for example, are more

akin to a partnership, while others have a vendor-customer relationship. Only

transactions that are determined to be with a customer are within the scope of

IFRS 15.

The definition of a customer is discussed in section 2.3. See section

2.4 for a discussion on collaborative arrangements.

Furthermore, entities may enter into transactions that are partially within the

scope of IFRS 15 and partially within the scope of other standards. In these

situations, the standard requires an entity to apply any separation and/or

measurement requirements in the other standard first, before applying the

requirements in IFRS 15. See section 2.5 for further discussion.

As noted above, when effective, IFRS 17 could change the applicable standard

for certain service contracts, specifically fixed-fee service contracts, which are

contracts in which the level of service depends on an uncertain event. Examples

include roadside assistance programmes and maintenance contracts in which

the service provider agrees to repair specified equipment after a malfunction

for a fixed fee. IFRS 17 indicates that these are insurance contracts and

IFRS 15.5.

IFRS 16 became effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019,

superseding IAS 17 and IFRIC 4 Determining whether an Arrangement contains a Lease.

Earlier adoption was permitted, provided that an entity applied IFRS 15 at or before the

date of initial application of IFRS 16.

IFRS 9 became effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018,

superseding IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. However, entities

that are applying IFRS 4, have an optional temporary exemption that permits an insurance

company whose activities are predominantly connected with insurance to defer adoption

of IFRS 9. If an entity uses this optional exemption, it continues to apply IAS 39 until it first

applies IFRS 17. At the time of writing this publication, IFRS 17 is effective for annual

periods beginning on or after 1 January 2021. However, the IASB has proposed to defer

the effective date of IFRS 17 (as well as the temporary exemption for qualifying insurers to

apply IFRS 9) by one year. References to IFRS 9 in this publication are generally also

relevant for IAS 39.

IFRS 15.6.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 38

therefore, when it is effective, that standard would apply. However, if their

primary purpose is the provision of services for a fixed fee, IFRS 17 permits

entities the choice of applying IFRS 15 instead of IFRS 17 to such contracts if,

and only if, all of the following conditions are met:

• The entity does not reflect an assessment of the risk associated with an

individual customer in setting the price of the contract with that customer

• The contract compensates the customer by providing services, rather than

by making cash payments to the customer

And

• The insurance risk transferred by the contract arises primarily from the

customer’s use of services rather than from uncertainty over the cost of

those services.

The entity may make that choice on a contract-by-contract basis, but the choice

for each contract is irrevocable.

2.1.1 Non-monetary exchanges (updated September 2019)

IFRS 15 does not apply to non-monetary exchanges between entities in the

same line of business to facilitate sales to (potential) customers. For example,

the standard does not apply to a contract between two oil companies that swap

oil to fulfil demand from their respective customers in different locations on a

timely basis and to reduce transportation costs. This scope exclusion applies

even though the party exchanging goods or services with the entity might meet

the definition of a customer on the basis that it has contracted with the entity

to obtain an output of the entity’s ordinary activities. As discussed in the Basis

for Conclusions, this type of scenario may be common in industries with

homogeneous products.

Not all non-monetary exchanges between entities

are outside the scope of IFRS 15 and the standard does provide requirements

for contracts involving non-cash consideration in exchange for goods or

services (see section 5.6). Therefore, determining whether an exchange is to

facilitate a sale to a customer may require judgement. Judgement may also be

needed to determine whether entities are in the same line of business.

The following examples illustrate some of these considerations:

Illustration 2-1 — Non-monetary exchange outside the scope of IFRS 15

An automobile dealer exchanges new model automobiles with another dealer

to obtain the colour ordered by a customer. This non-monetary exchange is

intended to facilitate a sale to a customer who is not a party to the exchange.

In addition, it involves the exchange of inventory that both dealers hold for

sale in the same line of business. Accordingly, this transaction is outside the

scope of IFRS 15.

IFRS 17.8.

IFRS 15.BC58.

39 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Illustration 2-2 — Non-monetary exchange in the scope of IFRS 15

An office supply retailer provides office equipment and supplies to an

automobile dealer in exchange for an automobile. The automobile dealer will

use the office equipment and supplies in its financing department. The new

equipment is an upgrade from the automobile dealer’s old equipment and will

allow the automobile dealer to reduce administrative expenses. The office

supply retailer will use the car received in its repair department, allowing the

department to reduce response times and meet service level commitments.

Although the exchange involves inventory held for sale by each entity, the

transaction is not an exchange of a product held for sale in the ordinary

course of business for a product to be sold in the same line of business to

facilitate sales to customers. Accordingly, this transaction is within the scope

of IFRS 15 for each entity.

2.2 Other scope considerations

Certain arrangements executed by entities include repurchase provisions, either

as a component of a sales contract or as a separate contract that relates to

the same or similar goods in the original agreement. The form of the repurchase

agreement and whether the customer obtains control of the asset will

determine whether the agreement is within the scope of the standard. See

section 7.3 for a discussion on repurchase agreements.

IFRS 15 also specifies the accounting for certain costs, such as the incremental

costs of obtaining a contract and the costs of fulfilling a contract. However, the

standard is clear that these requirements only apply if there are no other

applicable requirements in IFRS for those costs.

See section 9.3 for further

discussion on the requirements relating to contract costs in the standard.

Certain requirements in IFRS 15 are also relevant for the recognition and

measurement of a gain or loss on the disposal of a non-financial asset not in

the ordinary course of business (see section 2.2.1 and see section 2.3 for

further discussion on determining whether a transaction is part of an entity’s

ordinary activities).

2.2.1 Disposal of non-financial assets not in the ordinary course of business

(updated October 2018)

When an entity disposes of an asset that is within the scope of IAS 16

Property,

Plant and Equipment

, IAS 38

Intangible Assets

and IAS 40

Investment Property

and that disposal is not part of the entity’s ordinary activities, the transaction is

within the scope of those standards, not IFRS 15. However, IAS 16, IAS 38 and

IAS 40 require entities to use certain of the requirements of IFRS 15 when

recognising and measuring gains or losses arising from the sale or disposal of

non-financial assets.

IAS 16, IAS 38 and IAS 40 require that the gain or loss arising from the disposal

of a non-financial asset be included in profit or loss when the item is

derecognised, unless IFRS 16 (or IAS 17) requires otherwise on a sale and

leaseback. IAS 16 and IAS 38 specifically prohibit classification of any such gain

as revenue.

However, as an exception, IAS 16 requires entities that are in the

business of renting and subsequently selling the same assets, to recognise the

proceeds from the sale of such assets as revenue in accordance with IFRS 15. In

this specific situation, the IASB agreed that the presentation of (gross) revenue,

rather than a net gain or loss on the sale of the assets, would better reflect the

IFRS 15.8.

IAS 16.68, IAS 38.113, IAS 40.69.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 40

ordinary activities of such entities.

IFRS 16 (or IAS 17) applies to disposal via

a sale and leaseback.

The gain or loss on disposal of a non-financial asset is the difference between

the net disposal proceeds, if any, and the carrying amount of the item.

Under

IAS 16 or IAS 38, if an entity applies the revaluation model for measurement

after initial recognition, any revaluation surplus relating to the asset disposed of

is transferred within equity to retained earnings when the asset is derecognised

and not reflected in profit or loss.

As noted above, IAS 16, IAS 38 and IAS 40 provide a consistent model for the

measurement and recognition of gains or losses on the sale or disposal of non-

financial assets to non-customers (i.e., not in the ordinary course of business)

by referring to the requirements in IFRS 15. For sales of non-financial assets

to non-customers, IAS 16, IAS 38 and IAS 40 require entities to:

• Determine the date of disposal (and, therefore, derecognition of the asset)

using the requirements in IFRS 15 for determining when a performance

obligation is satisfied (i.e., Step 5 requirements, see section 7).

• Measure the consideration that is included in the calculation of the gain or

loss on disposal in accordance with the requirements for determining the

transaction price (i.e., Step 3 requirements, see section 5). Any subsequent

changes to the estimate of the consideration (e.g., updates of variable

consideration estimates, including reassessment of the constraint)

are recognised in accordance with the requirements for changes in the

transaction price.

For example, if variable consideration is constrained at

the time of disposal, it would not be recognised in profit or loss until it is

no longer constrained, which could be in a subsequent period.

The measurement of any gain or loss resulting from the consequential

amendments may differ from the gain or loss measured by following the legacy

requirements in IAS 18.

IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations provides

additional requirements for assets that meet that standard’s criteria to be

classified as held for sale. These requirements include measurement provisions,

which may affect the measurement of the amount of the subsequent gain or

loss on disposal.

IFRS 10 specifies how a parent accounts for the full or partial disposal of a

subsidiary.

The accounting treatment may, therefore, differ depending on

whether a non-financial asset is sold on its own (in which case IAS 16, IAS 38 or

IAS 40 would apply) or included within the full or partial disposal of a subsidiary

(in which case, IFRS 10 would apply). Where there is a retained interest in a

former subsidiary, other IFRSs (such as IAS 28, IFRS 11 or IFRS 9) may also

apply in accounting for the transaction.

Similar considerations may apply to disposals of non-financial assets held in a

corporate wrapper that are in the ordinary course of business, since IFRS 15

excludes transactions within the scope of IFRS 10. See Question 2-11 in

section 2.5 for further discussion.

IAS 16.68A, BC35C.

IAS 16.69, IAS 38.114, IAS 40.67.

IAS 16.71, IAS 38.113, IAS 40.69.

IAS 16.41, IAS 38.87.

IAS 16.69, IAS 38.114, IAS 40.67.

IAS 16.72, IAS 38.116, IAS 40.70.

IFRS 10.25-26 apply if a parent loses control of a subsidiary. IFRS 10.23-24 apply if a

parent’s ownership interest in a subsidiary changes without the parent losing control of that

subsidiary.

41 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

FASB differences

The FASB’s ASC 610-20, Other Income – Gains and Losses from

Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets, provides guidance on how to account

for any gain or loss resulting from the sale of non-financial assets or in-

substance non-financial assets that are not an output of an entity’s ordinary

activities and are not a business. This includes the sale of intangible assets

and property, plant and equipment, including real estate, as well as materials

and supplies. ASC 610-20 requires entities to apply certain recognition and

measurement principles of ASC 606. Thus, under US GAAP, the accounting

for a contract that includes the sale of a non-financial asset to a non-

customer will generally be consistent with a contract to sell a non-financial

asset to a customer, except for financial statement presentation and

disclosure. Sales or transfers of businesses or subsidiaries that do not

contain solely non-financial assets and in-substance non-financial assets to

non-customers are accounted for using the deconsolidation guidance in

ASC 810, Consolidation.

As discussed above, IAS 16, IAS 38 and IAS 40 require entities to use

certain of the requirements of IFRS 15 when recognising and measuring

gains or losses arising from the sale or disposal of non-financial assets

when it is not in the ordinary course of business. Changes in a parent’s

ownership interest in a subsidiary (including loss of control through sale or

disposal) are accounted for under IFRS 10. Unlike US GAAP, IFRS does not

contain specific requirements regarding the sale of in-substance non-

financial assets.

2.3 Definition of a customer

The standard defines a customer “as a party that has contracted with an entity

to obtain goods or services that are an output of the entity’s ordinary activities

in exchange for consideration”.

IFRS 15 does not define the term ‘ordinary

activities’

because it was derived from the definitions of revenue in the

respective conceptual frameworks of the IASB and the FASB in effect when the

standards were developed. In particular, description of revenue in the IASB’s

Conceptual Framework at that time referred specifically to the ‘ordinary

activities’ of an entity and the definition of revenue in the FASB’s Statement of

Financial Accounting Concepts No. 6 refers to the notion of an entity’s ‘ongoing

major or central operations’.

In many transactions, a customer is easily

identifiable. However, in transactions involving multiple parties, it may be less

clear which counterparties are customers of the entity. For some arrangements,

multiple parties could all be considered customers of the entity. However, for

other arrangements, only some of the parties involved are considered

customers.

IFRS 15 Appendix A.

IFRS, 2010 Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting, paragraph 4.29; US GAAP,

Statement of Financial Accounting Concepts No. 6, paragraph 78

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 42

The illustration below shows how the party considered to be the customer may

differ, depending on the specific facts and circumstances:

Illustration 2-3 — Identification of a customer

An entity provides internet-based advertising services to companies. As part

of those services, the entity purchases banner-space on various websites

from a selection of publishers. For certain contracts, the entity provides a

sophisticated service of matching the ad placement with the pre-identified

criteria of the advertising party (i.e., the customer). In addition, the entity

pre-purchases the banner-space from the publishers before it finds

advertisers for that space. Assume that the entity appropriately concludes it

is acting as the principal in these contracts (see section 4.4 for further

discussion on principal versus agent considerations). Accordingly, the entity

identifies that its customer is the advertiser to whom it is providing services.

In other contracts, the entity simply matches advertisers with the publishers

in its portfolio, but the entity does not provide any sophisticated ad-targeting

services or purchase the advertising space from the publishers before it finds

advertisers for that space. Assume that the entity appropriately concludes

it is acting as the agent in these contracts. Accordingly, the entity identifies

that its customer is the publisher to whom it is providing services.

In addition, the identification of the performance obligations in a contract

(discussed further in section 4) can have a significant effect on the

determination of which party is the entity’s customer. Also see the discussion of

the identification of an entity’s customer when applying the application

guidance on consideration paid or payable to a customer in section 5.7.

2.4 Collaborative arrangements

Entities often enter into collaborative arrangements to, for example, jointly

develop and commercialise intellectual property such as a drug candidate in the

life sciences industry or a motion picture in the entertainment industry). In such

arrangements, a counterparty may not always be a ‘customer’ of the entity.

Instead, the counterparty may be a collaborator or partner that shares in the

risks and benefits of developing a product to be marketed. This is common in

the pharmaceutical, bio-technology, oil and gas, and health care industries.

However, depending on the facts and circumstances, these arrangements may

also contain a vendor-customer relationship component. Such contracts could

still be within the scope of IFRS 15, at least partially, if the collaborator or

partner meets the definition of a customer for some, or all, aspects of the

arrangement. If the collaborator or partner is not a customer, the transaction is

not within the scope of IFRS 15. An example of transactions between

collaborators or partners not being within the scope of IFRS 15 was discussed

by the IFRS IC in March 2019; it related to the output to which an entity is

entitled from a joint operation, but which the entity has not yet received and

sold to its customers (see Question 2-12 in section 2.5).

The IASB decided not to provide additional application guidance for determining

whether certain revenue-generating collaborative arrangements are within the

scope of IFRS 15. In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB explained that it would

not be possible to provide application guidance that applies to all collaborative

arrangements.

Therefore, the parties to such arrangements need to consider

all of the facts and circumstances to determine whether a vendor-customer

relationship exists that is subject to the standard.

IFRS 15.BC54.

43 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

However, the IASB did determine that, in some circumstances, it may be

appropriate for an entity to apply the principles in IFRS 15 to collaborations or

partnerships (e.g., when there are no applicable or more relevant requirements

that could be applied).

How we see it

Under legacy IFRS, identifying the customer could be difficult, especially

when multiple parties were involved in the transaction. This evaluation may

have required significant judgement and IFRS 15 does not provide additional

factors to consider.

Furthermore, transactions among partners in collaboration arrangements

are not within the scope of IFRS 15. Therefore, entities need to use

judgement to determine whether transactions are between partners acting

in their capacity as collaborators or reflect a vendor-customer relationship.

2.5 Interaction with other standards (updated September 2019)

The standard provides requirements for arrangements partially within the scope

of IFRS 15 and partially within the scope of other standards, as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

7. A contract with a customer may be partially within the scope of this Standard

and partially within the scope of other Standards listed in paragraph 5.

(a) If the other Standards specify how to separate and/or initially measure

one or more parts of the contract, then an entity shall first apply the

separation and/or measurement requirements in those Standards. An

entity shall exclude from the transaction price the amount of the part

(or parts) of the contract that are initially measured in accordance

with other Standards and shall apply paragraphs 73–86 to allocate

the amount of the transaction price that remains (if any) to each

performance obligation within the scope of this Standard and to

any other parts of the contract identified by paragraph 7(b).

(b) If the other Standards do not specify how to separate and/or initially

measure one or more parts of the contract, then the entity shall apply

this Standard to separate and/or initially measure the part (or parts)

of the contract.

IFRS 15.BC56.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 44

The following chart illustrates these requirements:

If a component of the arrangement is covered by another standard or

interpretation that specifies how to separate and/or initially measure that

component, the entity needs to apply IFRS 15 to the remaining components of

the arrangement. Some examples of where separation and/or initial

measurement are addressed in other IFRS include the following:

• IFRS 9 generally requires that a financial instrument be recognised at fair

value at initial recognition. For contracts that include the issuance of a

financial instrument and revenue components within the scope of IFRS 15

and the financial instrument is required to be initially recognised at fair

value, the fair value of the financial instrument is first measured and the

remainder of the estimated contract consideration is allocated among

the other components in the contract in accordance with IFRS 15.

•

A contract may contain a lease coupled with an agreement to sell other

goods or services (e.g., subject to IFRS 15). IFRS 16 requires that a lessor

accounts separately for the lease component (in accordance with IFRS 16)

and any non-lease components (in accordance with other standards) and

provides application guidance on separating the components of such a

contract.

A lessor allocates the consideration in a contract that contains

a lease component and one or more additional lease or non-lease

components by applying the requirements in IFRS 15 for allocating the

transaction price to performance obligations and changes in the transaction

price after contract inception (see section 6).

Refer to our publication,

Applying IFRS: A closer look at IFRS 16 Leases, for more information on

IFRS 16.

IFRS 16.12, B32-B33.

IFRS 16.17.

Available on ey.com/IFRS.

Is the contract entirely in the scope of other standards?

Apply the requirements in the other standards

Apply IFRS 15 to the entire contract

Is the contract with a customer

partially within the scope of

other standards?

Yes

Do the other standards specify

how to separate and/or initially

measure one or more parts of

the contract?

Yes

Apply the separation and/or

measurement requirements in

those standards.

Apply IFRS 15 to separate and/or initially

measure the part (or parts) of the contract

Exclude from the transaction

price the amount of the part (or

parts) of the contract that are

initially measured in accordance

with other standards

Apply IFRS 15 to the part (or parts) of the

contract within its scope

Apply other standards to the part (or parts) of

the contract within their scope

45 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Conversely, if a component of the arrangement is covered by another standard

or interpretation, but that standard or interpretation does not specify how

to separate and/or initially measure that component, the entity needs to apply

IFRS 15 to separate and/or initially measure each component. For example,

specific requirements do not exist for the separation and measurement of the

different parts of an arrangement when an entity sells a business and also

enters into a long-term supply agreement with the other party. See section 6.6

for further discussion on the effect on the allocation of arrangement

consideration when an arrangement includes both revenue and non-revenue

components.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

Prior to IFRS 15, entities that entered into transactions that fell within the

scope of multiple standards had to separate those transactions into

components, so that each component could be accounted for under the

relevant standard. IFRS 15 did not change this requirement. However, under

legacy IFRS, revenue transactions were often separated into components that

were accounted for under different revenue standards and/or interpretations

(e.g., a transaction involving the sale of goods and a customer loyalty

programme that fell within the scope of both IAS 18 and IFRIC 13, respectively).

This is not relevant under IFRS 15 as there is a single revenue recognition

model.

IAS 18 specified the accounting treatment for the recognition and

measurement of interest and dividends. Interest and dividend income are

excluded from the scope of IFRS 15. Instead, the relevant recognition and

measurement requirements have been moved to IFRS 9.

Frequently asked questions

Question 2-1: Before applying the financial instruments standards, are

deferred-payment transactions that are part of Sharia-compliant

instruments and transactions within the scope of the revenue standard?

[TRG meeting 26 January 2015 – Agenda paper no. 17]

Islamic financial institutions (IFIs) enter into Sharia-compliant instruments

and transactions that do not result in IFIs earning interest on loans. Instead,

these transactions involve purchases and sales of real assets (e.g., vehicles)

on which IFIs can earn a premium to compensate them for deferred payment

terms. Typically, an IFI makes a cash purchase of the underlying asset, takes

legal possession, even if only for a short time, and immediately sells the asset

on deferred payment terms. The financial instruments created by these

transactions are within the scope of the financial instruments standards.

At the January 2015 TRG meeting, IASB TRG members discussed whether

(before applying the financial instruments standards) deferred-payment

transactions that are part of Sharia-compliant instruments and transactions

are within the scope of IFRS 15. IASB TRG members generally agreed that

Sharia-compliant instruments and transactions may be outside the scope of

the standard. However, the analysis depends on the specific facts and

circumstances. This may require significant judgement as contracts often

differ within and between jurisdictions. FASB TRG members did not discuss

this issue.

See IFRS 9.B5.4.1-B5.4.3.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 46

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 2-2: Are certain fee-generating activities of financial institutions

in the scope of the revenue standard (i.e., servicing and sub-servicing

financial assets, providing financial guarantees and providing deposit-

related services)? [FASB TRG meeting 18 April 2016 – Agenda paper

no. 52]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that the standard provides a framework

for determining whether certain contracts are in the scope of the FASB’s

standard, ASC 606, or other standards. As discussed above, the standard’s

scope includes all contracts with customers to provide goods or services in

the ordinary course of business, except for contracts with customers that

are within the scope of certain other ASC topics that are listed as scope

exclusions. If another standard specifies the accounting for the consideration

(e.g., a fee) received in the arrangement, the consideration is outside the

scope of ASC 606. If other standards do not specify the accounting for

the consideration and there is a separate good or service provided, the

consideration is in (or at least partially in) the scope of ASC 606. The FASB

staff applied this framework in the TRG agenda paper to arrangements to

service financial assets, provide financial guarantees and provide deposit-

related services.

FASB TRG members generally agreed that income from servicing financial

assets (e.g., loans) is not within the scope of ASC 606. An asset servicer

performs various services, such as communication with the borrower and

payment collection, in exchange for a fee. FASB TRG members generally

agreed that an entity should look to ASC 860,

Transfers and Servicing

to determine the appropriate accounting for these fees. This is because

ASC 606 contains a scope exception for contracts that fall under ASC 860,

which provides requirements on the recognition of the fees (despite not

providing explicit requirements on revenue accounting).

FASB TRG members generally agreed that fees from providing financial

guarantees are not within the scope of ASC 606. A financial institution may

receive a fee for providing a guarantee of a loan. These types of financial

guarantees are generally within the scope of ASC 460,

Guarantees

ASC 815,

Derivatives and Hedging

. FASB TRG members generally agreed

that an entity should look to ASC 460 or ASC 815 to determine the

appropriate accounting for these fees. This is because ASC 606 contains

a scope exception for contracts that fall within those topics, which provide

principles an entity can follow to determine the appropriate accounting to

reflect the financial guarantor’s release from risk (and credit to earnings).

FASB TRG members also generally agreed that fees from deposit-related

services are within the scope of ASC 606. In contrast to the decisions

for servicing income and financial guarantees, the guidance in ASC 405,

Liabilities

, that financial institutions apply to determine the appropriate

liability accounting for customer deposits, does not provide a model for

recognising fees related to customer deposits (e.g., ATM fees, account

maintenance or dormancy fees). Accordingly, FASB TRG members generally

agreed that deposit fees and charges are within the scope of ASC 606,

even though ASC 405 is listed as a scope exception in ASC 606, because

of the lack of guidance on the accounting for these fees in ASC 405.

It should be noted that, while this was not specifically discussed by the

IASB TRG, IFRS preparers may find the FASB TRG’s discussions helpful

in assessing whether certain contracts are within the scope of IFRS 15 or

other standards.

47 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 2-3: Are credit card fees in the scope of the FASB’s revenue

standard? [TRG meeting 13 July 2015 – Agenda paper no. 36]

A bank that issues credit cards can have various income streams (e.g., annual

fees) from a cardholder under various credit card arrangements. Some of

these fees may entitle cardholders to ancillary services (e.g., concierge

services, airport lounge access). The card issuer may also provide rewards to

cardholders based on their purchases. US GAAP stakeholders had questioned

whether such fees and programmes are within the scope of the revenue

standard, particularly when a good or service is provided to a cardholder.

While this question was only raised by US GAAP stakeholders, IASB TRG

members generally agreed that an IFRS preparer first needs to determine

whether the credit card fees are within the scope of IFRS 9. IFRS 9 requires

that any fees that are an integral part of the effective interest rate for a

financial instrument be treated as an adjustment to the effective interest

rate. Conversely, any fees that are not an integral part of the effective

interest rate of the financial instrument are generally accounted for under

IFRS 15.

FASB TRG members generally agreed that credit card fees that are accounted

for under ASC 310,

Receivables

are not in the scope of ASC 606. This

includes annual fees that may entitle cardholders to ancillary services. FASB

TRG members noted that this conclusion is consistent with legacy US GAAP

requirements for credit card fees. However, the observer from the US SEC

noted that the nature of the arrangement must truly be that of a credit card

lending arrangement in order to be in the scope of ASC 310. As such, entities

need to continue evaluating their arrangements as new programmes develop.

Credit card fees could, therefore, be treated differently under IFRS and

US GAAP.

Question 2-4: Are credit cardholder rewards programmes in the scope of

the FASB’s revenue standard? [TRG meeting 13 July 2015 – Agenda paper

no. 36]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that if all consideration (i.e., credit card

fees discussed in Question 2-3 above) related to the rewards programme is

determined to be within the scope of ASC 310, the rewards programme is not

in the scope of ASC 606. However, this determination has to be made based

on the facts and circumstances due to the wide variety of credit card reward

programmes offered. IASB TRG members did not discuss this issue because

the question was only raised in relation to US GAAP.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 48

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 2-5: Are contributions (as defined in US GAAP) in the scope of the

FASB’s revenue standard? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015 – Agenda paper

no. 26]

The FASB amended ASC 606 to clarify that an entity needs to consider the

requirements in ASC 958-605,

Not-for-Profit Entities – Revenue Recognition

when determining whether a transaction is a contribution (as defined in the

ASC Master Glossary) within the scope of ASC 958-605 or a transaction

within the scope of ASC 606.

The requirements for contributions received

in ASC 958-605 generally apply to all entities that receive contributions (i.e.,

not just not-for-profit entities), unless otherwise indicated.

Before the amendment, FASB TRG members discussed this issue and

generally agreed that contributions are not within the scope of ASC 606

because they are non-reciprocal transfers. That is, contributions generally

do not represent consideration given in exchange for goods or services that

are an output of the entity’s ordinary activities. IASB TRG members did not

discuss this issue because the question was only raised in the context of

US GAAP.

Question 2-6: Are fixed-odds wagering contracts within the scope of the

revenue standard?

In fixed-odds wagering contracts, the payout for wagers placed on gambling

activities (e.g., table games, slot machines, sports betting) is known at the

time the wager is placed.

Under IFRS, consistent with a July 2007 IFRS Interpretations Committee

(IFRS IC) agenda decision, wagers that meet the definition of a derivative

are within the scope of IFRS 9. Those that do not meet the definition of

a derivative are within the scope of IFRS 15.

FASB differences

Under US GAAP, the FASB added scope exceptions in ASC 815 and

ASC 924, Entertainment — Casinos, in December 2016 to clarify that

fixed-odds wagering arrangements are within the scope of ASC 606.

Question 2-7: Are pre-production activities related to long-term supply

arrangements in the scope of the revenue standard?

In some long-term supply arrangements, entities perform upfront engineering

and design activities to create new technology or adapt existing technology

according to the needs of the customer. These pre-production activities are

often a prerequisite to delivering any units under a production contract.

Entities need to evaluate whether the pre-production activities are promises

in a contract with a customer (and potentially performance obligations) under

IFRS 15. When making this evaluation, entities need to determine whether

the activities transfer a good or service to a customer. Refer to Question 4-1

in section 4.1.1 for further discussion on determining whether pre-production

activities are promised goods or services under IFRS 15. If an entity

determines that these activities are promised goods or services, it will

apply the requirements in IFRS 15 to those goods or services.

ASU 2018-08, Accounting Standards Update 2018-08—Not-For-Profit Entities (Topic 958):

Clarifying The Scope And Accounting Guidance For Contributions Received And

Contributions Made.

49 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 2-8: Are sales of by-products or scrap materials in the scope of

the revenue standard?

Consider an example in which a consumer products entity sells by-products or

accumulated scrap materials that are produced as a result of its

manufacturing process. In determining whether the sale of by-products or

scrap materials to third parties is in the scope of IFRS 15, an entity first

determines whether the sale of such items is an output of the entity’s

ordinary activities. This is because IFRS 15 defines revenue as “income

arising in the course of an entity’s ordinary activities”.

If an entity

determines the sale of such items represents revenue from a contract

with a customer, it would generally recognise the sale under IFRS 15.

If an entity determines that such sales are not in the course of its ordinary

activities, the entity would recognise those sales separately from revenue

from contracts with customers because they represent sales to non-

customers.

We do not believe that it would be appropriate for an entity to recognise the

sale of by-products or scrap materials as a reduction of cost of goods sold.

This is because recognising the sale of by-products or scrap materials as

a reduction of cost of goods sold may inappropriately reflect the cost of

raw materials used in manufacturing the main product. However, this

interpretation would not apply if other accounting standards allow for

recognition as a reduction of costs.

IAS 2

Inventories

requires that the costs of conversion of the main product

and the by-product be allocated between the products on a rational and

consistent basis. However, IAS 2 mentions that most by-products, by their

nature, are immaterial. When this is the case, they are often measured at net

realisable value and this value is deducted from the cost of the main product.

As a result, the carrying amount of the main product is not materially

different from its cost.

We believe that the language in IAS 2 only relates

to the allocation of the costs of conversion between the main product and by-

product and does not allow the proceeds from the sale of by-products to be

presented as a reduction of cost of goods sold.

Question 2-9 Are the sales of prepaid gift cards within the scope of

IFRS 15?

Entities may sell prepaid gift cards in their normal course of business in

exchange for cash. The prepaid gift cards typically provide the customer

with the right to redeem those cards in the future for goods or services of the

entity and/or third parties. For any unused balance of the prepaid gift cards,

entities need to recognise a liability that will be released upon redemption of

that unused balance. However, the features of each prepaid gift card may

vary and the nature of the liability depends on the assessment of these

features. Entities may need to use judgement in order to determine whether

the prepaid gift card is within the scope of IFRS 15 or another standard.

Prepaid gift cards that give rise to financial liabilities are within the scope of

IFRS 9. If a prepaid gift card does not give rise to a financial liability is likely to

be within the scope of IFRS 15. For further information on applying IFRS 15

to prepaid gift cards within its scope, refer to section 7.9.

IFRS 15 Appendix A.

IAS 2.14.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 50

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

An example of a prepaid card that is within the scope of IFRS 9 was discussed

by the IFRS IC at its March 2016 meeting. The issue related to the accounting

treatment of any unused balance on a prepaid card issued by an entity in

exchange for cash as well as the classification of the relevant liability that

arises. The discussion was limited to prepaid cards that have the specific

features described in the request received by the IFRS IC.

In particular,

the prepaid card:

Has no expiry date and no back-end fees. That is, any unspent balance

does not reduce unless it is spent by the cardholder

Is non-refundable, non-redeemable and non-exchangeable for cash

Can be redeemed only for goods or services to a specified monetary

amount

And

Can be redeemed only at specified third-party merchants (the range of

merchants accepting the specific card could vary depending on the card

programme) and, upon redemption, the entity delivers cash to the

merchant(s)

The IFRS IC observed that when an entity issues a prepaid card with the

above features, it is contractually obliged to deliver cash to the merchants on

behalf of the cardholder. Although this obligation is conditional upon the

cardholder redeeming the card by purchasing goods or services, the entity’s

right to avoid delivering cash to settle this contractual obligation is not

unconditional. On this basis, the IFRS IC concluded that the entity’s liability

for such a prepaid card meets the definition of a financial liability and would

fall within the scope of IFRS 9 and IAS 32

Financial Instruments: Presentation

The IFRS IC also noted in its agenda decision that its discussion on this issue

did not include customer loyalty programmes.

Question 2-10: How does a utility entity determine whether a contract that

includes a non-refundable upfront fee received for establishing a connection

to a network (i.e., a connection fee) is within the scope of IFRS 15?

See response to Question 5-31 in section 5.8.

Question 2-11: Does an entity apply IFRS 10 or IFRS 15 to the sale of a

corporate wrapper to a customer?

It depends. As part of their ordinary activities, entities may enter into

contracts with customers to sell an asset by selling their equity interest in

a separate entity (commonly referred to as a ‘corporate wrapper’ or ‘single-

asset entity’) holding that asset (e.g., real estate), rather than by selling the

asset itself. Entities may sell assets via a sale of equity interest in a corporate

wrapper for tax or legal reasons or because of local regulation or business

practice. Facts and circumstances may differ, for example, in relation to:

• When the corporate wrapper is created and the asset transferred into it

• When the entity enters into a contract with a customer

• If the asset is constructed by the entity, when construction starts

• When the equity interest in the corporate wrapper is legally transferred

to the customer

IFRIC Update, March 2016, available on the IASB’s website.

51 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

In addition, a corporate wrapper could include only one asset (plus a related

deferred tax asset or liability) or one or more other assets or liabilities, such

as a financing liability.

Whether an entity needs to apply IFRS 10 or IFRS 15 to the sale of a

corporate wrapper to a customer depends on facts and circumstances and

may require significant judgement, including consideration of the following:

• IFRS 10 requires an entity that controls one or more entities (i.e., the

parent) to present consolidated financial statements, with some limited

exceptions, and sets out the requirements to determine whether, as

an investor, it controls (and, therefore, must consolidate) an investee.

A parent consolidates an entity that it controls (i.e., the subsidiary) from

the date on which it first obtains control. It ceases consolidating that

subsidiary on the date on which it loses control.

IFRS 10 also specifies

how a parent accounts for the full or partial sale of a subsidiary.

• IFRS 15 excludes from its scope “… financial instruments and other

contractual rights or obligations within the scope of … IFRS 10”.

In practice, some entities apply IFRS 15 to all such contracts with customers

because the transactions are part of the entity’s ordinary activities and they

believe doing so would better reflect the ‘substance’ of each transaction

(e.g., the entity is ‘in substance’ selling the asset and not the equity interest;

the structure is for legal, tax or risk reasons and they believe it should not

affect the recognition of revenue).

Judgement may also be needed in determining whether an investor controls

the corporate wrapper. For example, the (selling) entity may act as an agent

(in accordance with IFRS 10) in relation to the corporate wrapper based on

the terms and conditions in the customer contract. IFRS 10 would not apply

to the sale, if the entity does not control the corporate wrapper prior to sale.

In June 2019, the IFRS IC discussed a request about the accounting for a

transaction in which an entity, as part of its ordinary activities, enters into a

contract with a customer to sell real estate by selling its equity interest in a

subsidiary. The entity established the subsidiary some time before it enters

into the contract with the customer; the subsidiary has one asset (real estate

inventory) and a related tax asset or liability. The entity has applied IFRS 10

in consolidating the subsidiary before it loses control of the subsidiary as a

result of the transaction with the customer. The IFRS IC discussed this issue,

but did not reach any decisions, in its June 2019 meeting. At the time of

writing this publication, the IFRS IC was expected to continue its discussion on

the matter at a future meeting.

It should be noted that the applicable standard (i.e., IFRS 10 or IFRS 15) is

not just a matter of presentation. That is, it may also affect, for example, the

timing of recognition (i.e., point in time versus over time and, if point in time,

IFRS 10.2, 4-4B, 20, Appendix A.

IFRS 10.25-26 apply if a parent loses control of a subsidiary. IFRS 10.23-24 apply if a

parent’s ownership interest in a subsidiary changes without the parent losing control of that

subsidiary.

IFRS 15.5(d).

IFRS IC Agenda Paper 6, Sale of a single asset entity containing real estate (IFRS 10),

paragraphs 15-16, June 2019, available on the IASB’s website.

IFRIC Update, June 2019, available on the IASB’s website.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 52

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

the specific point in time) and the measurement of consideration

(e.g., IFRS 10 does not constrain variable consideration). Furthermore,

IFRS 10 provides specific requirements for the derecognition of all assets and

liabilities of the former subsidiary on loss of control, which would not apply if

the contract with the customer is within the scope of IFRS 15.

FASB differences

Under US GAAP, the sale of a corporate wrapper generally will be in the

scope of ASC 606. ASC 810 indicates that its deconsolidation and

derecognition guidance does not apply to a loss of control of a subsidiary

that is a business if that transaction is within the scope of ASC 606. Loss

of control of a subsidiary that is not a business is equally excluded from

the scope of ASC 810 if the substance of the transaction is within the

scope of another standard (e.g., ASC 606). ASC 610-20 applies to the

recognition of gains or losses on transfers of non-financial assets and in-

substance non-financial assets that are not businesses to counterparties

that are not customers.

Question 2-12: Can a joint operator under IFRS 11 recognise as revenue

under IFRS 15 amounts to which it is entitled as a joint operator that have

not yet been sold to customers?

No. Revenue recognised in accordance with IFRS 15 must reflect an entity’s

performance in transferring a good or service to a customer.

Under IFRS 11, a joint operator is required to account for revenue relating to

its interest in the joint operation (as defined in IFRS 11) by applying the

standards that are applicable to the particular revenue.

Therefore, while

contracts with joint operators are excluded from the scope of IFRS 15, if

revenue relating to an interest in a joint operation under IFRS 11 arises from

a contract with a customer, it is recognised in accordance with IFRS 15.

As discussed in section 2.1, IFRS 15 applies only to contracts with customers.

In addition, IFRS 11 requires a joint operator to recognise “its revenue from

the sale of its share of the output arising from the joint operation”.

Therefore, revenue recognised by a joint operator must depict the output it

has received from the joint operation and sold to customers, rather than the

production of output or entitlement to output, as shown in the example

below.

This is consistent with the conclusion reached by the IFRS IC in March 2019.

The IFRS IC discussed this issue using the following example:

Example of interaction between IFRS 11 and IFRS 15 in recognising

revenue relating to an interest in a joint operation

Operators A and B establish an unincorporated joint operation (JO) that

they expect will produce output over a 2-year period. According to the

joint operating agreement, each operator is entitled to receive 50% of the

output arising from the JO’s activities and obliged to pay for 50% of the

production costs incurred. For operational reasons, the output received by

each joint operator and transferred to its customers in any one reporting

IFRS 11.21.

IFRS 11.20(c).

IFRIC Update, March 2019, available on the IASB’s website; and IFRS IC Agenda Paper 2,

November 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

53 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of interaction between IFRS 11 and IFRS 15 in recognising

revenue relating to an interest in a joint operation (cont’d)

period is different from the output to which it is entitled. Any difference

between the operators’ entitlement and the output received will be settled

through future deliveries of output arising from the JO, not in cash.

Output from the JO’s activities was CU100 in year 1 and CU150 in year 2.

In Years 1 and 2, both operators paid for 50% of the production costs

incurred.

Operator A

Operator B

Year 1

Entitlement to output

CU50

Output received and transferred to

customers

CU48

CU52

Asset / (liability)

CU2

CU(2)

Year 2

Entitlement to output

CU75

Output received and transferred to

customers

CU77

CU73

Operators A and B consider whether to recognise as revenue in each

period: the entitlement to the output produced from the joint operation’s

activities; or the output that was received and transferred to its customers.

In this fact pattern, the IFRS IC concluded that, in accordance with IFRS 15,

each joint operator recognises revenue to depict only the transfer of output

to its customers in each reporting period. As such, if Operators A and B are

entitled to output, but that output has not been received and sold to

customers, they do not recognise revenue.

Therefore, Operator A recognises revenue from contracts with customers

of CU48 in Year 1 and CU77 in Year 2. Similarly, Operator B recognises

revenue from contracts with customers of CU52 in Year 1 and CU73 in

Year 2.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 54

3. Identify the contract with the customer

To apply the five-step model in IFRS 15, an entity must first identify the

contract, or contracts, to provide goods or services to customers.

A contract must create enforceable rights and obligations to fall within the

scope of the model in the standard. Such contracts may be written, oral or

implied by an entity’s customary business practices. For example, if an entity

has an established practice of starting performance based on oral agreements

with its customers, it may determine that such oral agreements meet the

definition of a contract.

As a result, an entity may need to account for a contract as soon as

performance begins, rather than delay revenue recognition until the

arrangement is documented in a signed contract. Certain arrangements may

require a written contract to comply with laws or regulations in a particular

jurisdiction. These requirements must be considered when determining whether

a contract exists.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board acknowledged that entities need

to look at the relevant legal framework to determine whether the contract is

enforceable because factors that determine enforceability may differ among

jurisdictions.

The Board also clarified that, while the contract must be legally

enforceable to be within the scope of the model in the standard, all of the

promises do not have to be enforceable to be considered performance

obligations (see section 4.1). That is, a performance obligation can be based

on the customer’s valid expectations (e.g., due to the entity’s business practice

of providing an additional good or service that is not specified in the contract).

In addition, the standard clarifies that some contracts may have no fixed

duration and can be terminated or modified by either party at any time. Other

contracts may automatically renew on a specified periodic basis. Entities are

required to apply IFRS 15 to the contractual period in which the parties have

present enforceable rights and obligations. Contract enforceability and

termination clauses are discussed in section 3.2.

Illustration 3-1 — Oral contract

IT Support Co. provides online technology support for customers remotely via

the internet. For a fixed fee, IT Support Co. will scan a customer’s personal

computer (PC) for viruses, optimise the PC’s performance and solve any

connectivity problems. When a customer calls to obtain the scan services,

IT Support Co. describes the services it can provide and states the price

for those services. When the customer agrees to the terms stated by the

representative, payment is made over the telephone. IT Support Co. then

gives the customer the information it needs to obtain the scan services

(e.g., an access code for the website). It provides the services when the

customer connects to the internet and logs onto the entity’s website (which

may be that day or a future date).

In this example, IT Support Co. and its customer are entering into an oral

agreement, which is legally enforceable in this jurisdiction, for IT Support Co.

to repair the customer’s PC and for the customer to provide consideration by

transmitting a valid credit card number and authorisation over the telephone.

IFRS 15.BC32.

55 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Illustration 3-1 — Oral contract (cont’d)

The required criteria for a contract with a customer (discussed further below)

are all met. As such, this agreement is within the scope of the model in the

standard at the time of the telephone conversation, even if the entity has not

yet performed the scanning services.

3.1 Attributes of a contract (updated October 2018)

To help entities determine whether (and when) their arrangements with

customers are contracts within the scope of the model in the standard, the

Board identified certain attributes that must be present, as follows:

• The parties have approved the contract and are committed to perform their

respective obligations.

• Each party’s rights regarding the goods or services to be transferred can be

identified.

• Payment terms can be identified.

• The contract has commercial substance.

• It is probable that the entity will collect the consideration to which it will be

entitled in exchange for the goods or services that will be transferred to the

customer.

The Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that the criteria are similar to those

in previous revenue recognition requirements and in other existing standards and

are important in an entity’s assessment of whether the arrangement contains

enforceable rights and obligations.

These criteria are assessed at the inception of the arrangement. If the criteria

are met at that time, an entity does not reassess these criteria unless there is

an indication of a significant change in facts and circumstances.

For example,

as noted in IFRS 15.13, if the customer’s ability to pay significantly

deteriorates, an entity would have to reassess whether it is probable that

the entity will collect the consideration to which it is entitled in exchange for

transferring the remaining goods or services under the contract. The updated

assessment is prospective in nature and would not change the conclusions

associated with goods or services already transferred. That is, an entity would

not reverse any receivables, revenue or contract assets already recognised

under the contract.

If the criteria are not met (and until the criteria are met), the arrangement is

not considered a revenue contract under the standard and the requirements

discussed in section 3.5 must be applied.

IFRS 15.9.

IFRS 15.BC33.

IFRS 15.13.

IFRS 15.BC34.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 56

Frequently asked questions

Question 3-1: Does a master supply arrangement (MSA) create enforceable

rights and obligations to be considered a contract within the scope of the

model in IFRS 15?

An entity may use an MSA to govern the overall terms and conditions of a

business arrangement between itself and a customer (e.g., scope of services,

pricing, payment terms, warranties and other rights and obligations).

Typically, when an entity and a customer enter into an MSA, purchases are

subsequently made by the customer by issuing a non-cancellable purchase

order or an approved online authorisation that explicitly references the MSA

and specifies the products, services and quantities to be delivered.

In such cases, the MSA is unlikely to create enforceable rights and

obligations, which are needed to be considered a contract within the scope of

the model in IFRS 15. This is because, while the MSA may specify the pricing

or payment terms, it usually does not specify the specific goods or services,

or quantities thereof, to be transferred. Therefore, each party’s rights

and obligations regarding the goods or services to be transferred are not

identifiable. It is likely that the MSA and the customer order, taken together,

would constitute a contract under IFRS 15. As such, entities need to evaluate

both the MSA and the subsequent customer order(s) together to determine

whether and when the criteria in IFRS 15.9 are met.

If an MSA includes an enforceable clause requiring the customer to purchase

a minimum quantity of goods or services, the MSA alone may constitute a

contract under the standard because enforceable rights and obligations exist

for this minimum amount of goods or services.

Question 3-2: How would an entity determine whether a contract exists

within the scope of the model during a free trial period?

Free trial periods are common in certain subscription arrangements

(e.g., magazines, streaming services). A customer may receive a number of

‘free’ months of goods or services at the inception of an arrangement; before

the paid subscription begins; or as a bonus period at the beginning or end of

a paid subscription period.

Under IFRS 15, revenue is not recognised until an entity determines that a

contract within the scope of the model exists. Once an entity determines that

an IFRS 15 contract exists, it is required to identify the promises in the

contract. Therefore, if the entity has transferred goods or services prior to

the existence of an IFRS 15 contract, we believe that the free goods or

services provided during the trial period would generally be accounted for as

marketing incentives.

Consider an example in which an entity has a marketing programme to

provide a three-month free trial period of its services to prospective

customers. The entity’s customers are not required to pay for the services

provided during the free trial period and the entity is under no obligation to

provide the services under the marketing programme. If a customer enters

into a contract with the entity at the end of the free trial period that obliges

the entity to provide services in the future (e.g., signing up for a

57 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

subsequent 12-month period) and obliges the customer to pay for the

services, the services provided as part of the marketing programme may not

be promises that are part of an enforceable contract with the customer.

However, if an entity, as part of a negotiation with a prospective customer,

agrees to provide three free months of services if the customer agrees to

pay for 12 months of services (effectively providing the customer a discount

on 15 months), the entity would identify the free months as promises in

the contract because the contract requires it to provide them.

The above interpretation applies if the customer is not required to pay any

consideration for the additional goods or services during the trial period

(i.e., they are free). If the customer is required to pay consideration in

exchange for the goods or services received during the trial period (even if it

is only a nominal amount), a different accounting conclusion could be

reached. Entities need to apply judgement to evaluate whether a contract

exists that falls within the scope of the standard.

Question 3-3: Should entities consider side agreements when determining

whether a contract exists within the scope of the model?

Yes, all terms and conditions that create or negate enforceable rights and

obligations must be considered when determining whether a contract exists

under the standard. Understanding the entire contract, including any side

agreements or other amendments, is critical to this determination.

Side agreements are amendments to a contract that can be either

undocumented or documented separately from the main contract. The

potential for side agreements is greater for complex or material transactions

or when complex arrangements or relationships exist between an entity and

its customers. Side agreements may be communicated in many forms

(e.g., oral agreements, email, letters or contract amendments) and may be

entered into for a variety of reasons.

Side agreements may provide an incentive for a customer to enter into a

contract near the end of a financial reporting period or to enter into a

contract that it would not enter into in the normal course of business. Side

agreements may entice a customer to accept delivery of goods or services

earlier than required or may provide the customer with rights in excess of

those customarily provided by the entity. For example, a side agreement

may extend contractual payment terms; expand contractually stated rights;

provide a right of return; or commit the entity to provide future products or

functionality not contained in the contract or to assist resellers in selling a

product. Therefore, if the provisions in a side agreement differ from those

in the main contract, an entity should assess whether the side agreement

creates new rights and obligations or changes existing rights and obligations.

See sections 3.3 and 3.4, respectively, for further discussion of the

standard’s requirements on combining contracts and contract modifications.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 58

3.1.1 Parties have approved the contract and are committed to perform

their respective obligations

Before applying the model in IFRS 15, the parties must have approved the

contract. As indicated in the Basis for Conclusions, the Board included this

criterion because a contract might not be legally enforceable without the

approval of both parties.

Furthermore, the Board decided that the form of

the contract (i.e., oral, written or implied) is not determinative in assessing

whether the parties have approved the contract. Instead, an entity must

consider all relevant facts and circumstances when assessing whether the

parties intend to be bound by the terms and conditions of the contract. In some

cases, the parties to an oral or implied contract may have the intent to fulfil

their respective obligations. However, in other cases, a written contract may

be required before an entity can conclude that the parties have approved the

arrangement.

In addition to approving the contract, the entity must be able to conclude that

both parties are committed to perform their respective obligations. That

is, the entity must be committed to providing the promised goods or services.

In addition, the customer must be committed to purchasing those promised

goods or services. In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board clarified that an entity

and a customer do not always have to be committed to fulfilling all of their

respective rights and obligations for a contract to meet this requirement.

The Board cited, as an example, a supply agreement between two parties that

includes stated minimums. The customer does not always buy the required

minimum quantity and the entity does not always enforce its right to require the

customer to purchase the minimum quantity. In this situation, the Board stated

that it may still be possible for the entity to determine that there is sufficient

evidence to demonstrate that the parties are substantially committed to the

contract. This criterion does not address a customer’s intent and ability to pay

the consideration (i.e., collectability). Collectability is a separate criterion and is

discussed in section 3.1.5.

Termination clauses are also an important consideration when determining

whether both parties are committed to perform under a contract and,

consequently, whether a contract exists. See section 3.2 for further discussion

of termination clauses and how they affect contract duration.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

Legacy IFRS did not provide specific application guidance on oral contracts.

However, entities were required to consider the underlying substance

and economic reality of an arrangement and not merely its legal form.

The Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting

states that representing

a legal form that differs from the economic substance of the underlying

economic phenomenon may not result in a faithful representation.

Despite the focus on substance over form in IFRS, treating oral or implied

agreements as contracts may have been a significant change in practice for

some entities. It may have led to earlier accounting for oral agreements, i.e.,

not waiting until such agreements are formally documented.

IFRS 15.BC35.

IFRS 15.BC36.

The Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting, paragraph BC3.26; the revised

Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting paragraph 2.12 (effective for annual periods

beginning on or after 1 January 2020).

59 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

3.1.2 Each party’s rights regarding the goods or services to be transferred

can be identified

This criterion is relatively straightforward. If the goods or services to be

provided in the arrangement cannot be identified, it is not possible to conclude

that an entity has a contract within the scope of the model in IFRS 15. The

Board indicated that if the promised goods or services cannot be identified, the

entity cannot assess whether those goods or services have been transferred

because the entity would be unable to assess each party’s rights with respect

to those goods or services.

3.1.3 Payment terms can be identified

Identifying the payment terms does not require that the transaction price

be fixed or stated in the contract with the customer. As long as there is an

enforceable right to payment (i.e., enforceability as a matter of law) and the

contract contains sufficient information to enable the entity to estimate the

transaction price (see further discussion in section 5), the contract would

qualify for accounting under the standard (assuming the remaining criteria

set out in IFRS 15.9 in the extract in section 3.1 above have been met).

3.1.4 Commercial substance

The Board included a criterion that requires arrangements to have commercial

substance (i.e., the risk, timing or amount of the entity’s future cash flows

is expected to change as a result of the contract) to prevent entities from

artificially inflating revenue.

The model in IFRS 15 does not apply if an

arrangement does not have commercial substance. Historically, some entities

in high-growth industries allegedly engaged in transactions in which goods

or services were transferred back and forth between the same entities in

an attempt to show higher transaction volume and gross revenue (sometimes

known as ‘round-tripping’). This is also a risk in arrangements that involve non-

cash consideration.

Determining whether a contract has commercial substance for the purposes

of IFRS 15 may require significant judgement. In all situations, the entity must

be able to demonstrate a substantive business purpose exists, considering the

nature and structure of its transactions.

In a change from the legacy requirements in SIC-31, IFRS 15 does not contain

requirements specific to advertising barter transactions. Entities need to

carefully consider the commercial substance criterion when evaluating these

types of transactions.

3.1.5 Collectability

Under IFRS 15, collectability refers to the customer’s ability and intent to pay

the amount of consideration to which the entity will be entitled in exchange

for the goods or services that will be transferred to the customer. An entity

needs to assess a customer’s ability to pay based on the customer’s financial

capacity and its intention to pay considering all relevant facts and

circumstances, including past experiences with that customer or customer

class.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board noted that the purpose of the criteria

in IFRS 15.9 is to require an entity to assess whether a contract is valid and

represents a genuine transaction. The collectability criterion (i.e., determining

whether the customer has the ability and the intention to pay the promised

IFRS 15.BC37.

IFRS 15.BC40.

IFRS 15.BC45.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 60

consideration) is a key part of that assessment. In addition, the Board noted

that, in general, entities only enter into contracts in which it is probable that

the entity will collect the amount to which it will be entitled.

That is, in most

instances, an entity would not enter into a contract with a customer if there

was significant credit risk associated with that customer without also having

adequate economic protection to ensure that it would collect the consideration.

The IASB expects that only a small number of arrangements may fail to meet

the collectability criterion.

The standard requires an entity to evaluate at contract inception (and when

significant facts and circumstances change) whether it is probable that it will

collect the consideration to which it will be entitled in exchange for the goods

or services that will be transferred to a customer. This is consistent with legacy

IFRS, where revenue recognition was permitted only when it was probable that

the economic benefits associated with the transaction would flow to the entity

(assuming other basic revenue recognition criteria had been met).

For purposes of this analysis, the meaning of the term ’probable’ is consistent

with the existing definition in IFRS, i.e., “more likely than not”.

If it is not

probable that the entity will collect amounts to which it is entitled, the model in

IFRS 15 is not applied to the contract until the concerns about collectability

have been resolved. However, other requirements in IFRS 15 apply to such

arrangements (see section 3.5 for further discussion).

IFRS 15.9(e) specifies that an entity should assess only the consideration

to which it will be entitled in exchange for the goods or services that will be

transferred to the customer (rather than the total amount promised for all

goods or services in the contract). In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board

noted that, if the customer were to fail to perform as promised and the entity

were able to stop transferring additional goods or services to the customer in

response, the entity would not consider the likelihood of payment for those

goods or services that would not be transferred in its assessment of

collectability.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board also noted that the assessment of

collectability criteria requires an entity to consider how the entity’s contractual

rights to the consideration relate to its performance obligations. That

assessment considers the business practices available to the entity to manage

its exposure to credit risk throughout the contract (e.g., through advance

payments or the right to stop transferring additional goods or services).

The amount of consideration that is assessed for collectability is the amount to

which the entity will be entitled, which under the standard is the transaction

price for the goods or services that will be transferred to the customer, rather

than the stated contract price for those items. Entities need to determine

the transaction price in Step 3 of the model (as discussed in section 5) before

assessing the collectability of that amount. The contract price and transaction

price most often will differ because of variable consideration (e.g., rebates,

discounts or explicit or implicit price concessions) that reduces the amount

of consideration stated in the contract. For example, the transaction price for

the items expected to be transferred may be less than the stated contract price

for those items if an entity concludes that it has offered, or is willing to accept,

a price concession on products sold to a customer as a means to assist the

customer in selling those items through to end-consumers. As discussed in

IFRS 15.BC43.

IFRS 15.BC46E.

IFRS 5 Appendix A.

IFRS 15.BC46.

IFRS 15.BC46C.

61 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

section 5.2.1.A, an entity deducts from the contract price any variable

consideration that would reduce the amount of consideration to which it expects

to be entitled (e.g., the estimated price concession) at contract inception in order

to derive the transaction price for those items.

The standard provides the following example of how an entity would assess the

collectability criterion:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 1 — Collectability of the consideration (IFRS 15.IE3-IE6)

An entity, a real estate developer, enters into a contract with a customer for

the sale of a building for CU1 million. The customer intends to open a

restaurant in the building. The building is located in an area where new

restaurants face high levels of competition and the customer has little

experience in the restaurant industry.

The customer pays a non-refundable deposit of CU50,000 at inception of

the contract and enters into a long-term financing agreement with the entity

for the remaining 95 per cent of the promised consideration. The financing

arrangement is provided on a non-recourse basis, which means that if the

customer defaults, the entity can repossess the building, but cannot seek

further compensation from the customer, even if the collateral does not

cover the full value of the amount owed. The entity's cost of the building

is CU600,000. The customer obtains control of the building at contract

inception.

In assessing whether the contract meets the criteria in paragraph 9 of

IFRS 15, the entity concludes that the criterion in paragraph 9(e) of IFRS 15 is

not met because it is not probable that the entity will collect the consideration

to which it is entitled in exchange for the transfer of the building. In reaching

this conclusion, the entity observes that the customer's ability and intention

to pay may be in doubt because of the following factors:

(a) the customer intends to repay the loan (which has a significant balance)

primarily from income derived from its restaurant business (which is

a business facing significant risks because of high competition in the

industry and the customer's limited experience);

(b) the customer lacks other income or assets that could be used to repay

the loan; and

recourse.

Because the criteria in paragraph 9 of IFRS 15 are not met, the entity applies

paragraphs 15–16 of IFRS 15 to determine the accounting for the non-

refundable deposit of CU50,000. The entity observes that none of the events

described in paragraph 15 have occurred—that is, the entity has not received

substantially all of the consideration and it has not terminated the contract.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 62

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

Consequently, in accordance with paragraph 16, the entity accounts for the

non-refundable CU50,000 payment as a deposit liability. The entity continues

to account for the initial deposit, as well as any future payments of principal

and interest, as a deposit liability, until such time that the entity concludes

that the criteria in paragraph 9 are met (ie the entity is able to conclude that it

is probable that the entity will collect the consideration) or one of the events

in paragraph 15 has occurred. The entity continues to assess the contract

in accordance with paragraph 14 to determine whether the criteria in

paragraph 9 are subsequently met or whether the events in paragraph 15 of

IFRS 15 have occurred.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

While this requirement is similar to the legacy requirements in IAS 18, applying

the concept to a portion of the contractual amount, instead of the total, may

have been a significant change on transition. Before revenue could be

recognised under IAS 18, it had to be probable that the economic benefits

associated with the transaction would flow to the entity.

In practice, entities

often considered the entire contractually agreed consideration under IAS 18. If

so, the requirements in IFRS 15 may have resulted in earlier recognition of

revenue for a contract in which a portion of the contract price (but not the

entire amount) is considered to be at risk.

How we see it

Significant judgement is required to determine when an expected partial

payment indicates that there is an implied price concession in the contract,

there is an impairment loss or the arrangement lacks sufficient substance to

be considered a contract under the standard. See section 5.2.1.A for further

discussion on implicit price concessions.

FASB differences

ASC 606 also uses the term ‘probable’ for the collectability assessment.

However, ‘probable’ under US GAAP is a higher threshold than under IFRS.

The FASB’s standard includes additional guidance to clarify the intention of

the collectability assessment. However, the IASB stated in the Basis for

Conclusions on IFRS 15 that it does not expect differences in outcomes

under IFRS and US GAAP in relation to the evaluation of the collectability

criterion.

IAS 18.14(b), 18, 20(b).

For US GAAP, the term ‘probable’ is defined in the master glossary of the US Accounting

Standards Codificiation as “the future event or events are likely to occur”.

IFRS 15.BC46E.

63 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions

Question 3-4: How would an entity assess collectability for a portfolio of

contracts? [TRG meeting 26 January 2015 — Agenda paper no. 13]

TRG members generally agreed that if an entity has determined it is probable

that a customer will pay amounts owed under a contract, but the entity

has historical experience that it will not collect consideration from some

of the customers within a portfolio of contracts (see section 3.3.1), it would

be appropriate for the entity to record revenue for the contract in full and

separately evaluate the corresponding contract asset or receivable for

impairment. That is, the entity would not conclude the arrangement contains

an implicit price concession and would not reduce revenue for the

uncollectable amounts. See section 5.2.1.A for a discussion of evaluating

whether an entity has offered an implicit price concession.

Consider the following example included in the TRG agenda paper:

Example of assessing collectability for a portfolio of contracts

An entity has a large volume of similar customer contracts for which it

invoices its customers in arrears, on a monthly basis. Before accepting a

customer, the entity performs procedures designed to determine if it is

probable that the customer will pay the amounts owed. It does not accept

customers if it is not probable that the customer will pay the amounts

owed. Because these procedures are only designed to determine whether

collection is probable (and, thus, not a certainty), the entity anticipates

that it will have some customers that will not pay all of the amounts owed.

While the entity collects the entire amount due from the vast majority of

its customers, on average, the entity’s historical evidence (which is

representative of its expectations for the future) indicates that the entity

will only collect 98% of the amounts invoiced. In this case, the entity would

recognise revenue for the full amount due and recognise a bad debt

expense for 2% of the amount due (i.e., the amount the entity does not

expect to collect).

In this example, the entity concludes that collectability is probable for each

customer based on procedures it performed prior to accepting each

customer and on its historical experience with this customer class, while

also accepting that there is some credit risk inherent with this customer

class. Furthermore, the entity concludes that any amounts not collected

do not represent implied price concessions. Instead, they are due to

general credit risk that is present in a limited number of customer

contracts.

Some TRG members cautioned that the analysis to determine whether to

recognise a bad debt expense for a contract in the same period in which

revenue is recognised (instead of reducing revenue for an anticipated price

concession) will require judgement.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 64

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 3-5: When would an entity reassess collectability? [TRG meeting

26 January 2015 — Agenda paper no. 13]

As discussed in section 3.1, IFRS 15 requires an entity to reassess whether

it is probable that it will collect the consideration to which it will be entitled

when significant facts and circumstances change. Example 4 in IFRS 15

illustrates a situation in which a customer’s financial condition declines and its

current access to credit and available cash on hand is limited. In this case, the

entity does not reassess the collectability criterion. However, in a subsequent

year, the customer’s financial condition further declines after losing access

to credit and its major customers. Example 4 in IFRS 15 illustrates that this

subsequent change in the customer’s financial condition is so significant that

a reassessment of the criteria for identifying a contract is required, resulting

in the collectability criterion not being met. As noted in the TRG agenda

paper, this example illustrates that it was not the Board’s intent to require an

entity to reassess collectability when changes occur that are relatively minor

in nature (i.e., those that do not call into question the validity of the contract).

TRG members generally agreed that entities need to exercise judgement to

determine whether changes in the facts and circumstances are significant

enough to indicate that a contract no longer exists.

3.2 Contract enforceability and termination clauses (updated

September 2019)

An entity has to determine the duration of the contract (i.e., the stated

contractual term or a shorter period) before applying certain aspects of the

revenue model (e.g., identifying performance obligations, determining the

transaction price). The contract duration under IFRS 15 is the period in which

parties to the contract have present enforceable rights and obligations. An

entity cannot assume that there are present enforceable rights and obligations

for the entire term stated in the contract and it is likely that an entity will have

to consider enforceable rights and obligations in individual contracts, as

described in the standard:

Extract from IFRS 15

11. Some contracts with customers may have no fixed duration and can

be terminated or modified by either party at any time. Other contracts may

automatically renew on a periodic basis that is specified in the contract.

An entity shall apply this Standard to the duration of the contract (ie the

contractual period) in which the parties to the contract have present

enforceable rights and obligations.

The period in which enforceable rights and obligations exist may be affected by

termination provisions in the contract. Significant judgement is required to

determine the effect of termination provisions on the contract duration. Entities

need to review the overall contractual arrangements, including any master

service arrangements, wind-down provisions and business practices to identify

terms or conditions that might affect the enforceable rights and obligations in

their contracts.

Under the standard, this determination is critical because the contract duration

to which the standard is applied may affect the number of performance

obligations identified and the determination of the transaction price. It may also

affect the amounts disclosed in some of the required disclosures. See

65 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Question 3-6 below for further discussion on how termination provisions may

affect the contract duration.

If each party has the unilateral right to terminate a ’wholly unperformed’

contract (as defined in IFRS 15.12) without compensating the counterparty,

IFRS 15 states that, for purposes of the standard, a contract does not exist

and its accounting and disclosure requirements would not apply. This is because

the contracts would not affect an entity’s financial position or performance until

either party performs. Any arrangement in which the entity has not provided any

of the contracted goods or services and has not received or is not entitled to

receive any of the contracted consideration is considered to be a ‘wholly

unperformed’ contract.

The requirements for ’wholly unperformed’ contracts do not apply if the parties

to the contract have to compensate the other party if they exercise their right to

terminate the contract and that termination payment is considered substantive.

How we see it

Under legacy IFRS, entities applied the revenue requirements for the stated

term of the contract and generally accounted for terminations when they

occurred. Under IFRS 15, entities are required to account for contracts with

longer stated terms as month-to-month (or possibly a shorter duration)

contracts if the parties can terminate the contract without penalty.

Entities need to consider all facts and circumstances to determine the

contract duration. For example, entities may need to use significant

judgement to determine whether a termination payment is substantive and

the effect of a termination provision on contract duration.

Frequently asked questions

Question 3-6: How do termination clauses and termination payments affect

the duration of a contract (i.e., the contractual period)? [TRG meeting

31 October 2014 – Agenda paper no. 10]

Entities need to carefully evaluate termination clauses and any related

termination payments to determine how they affect contract duration

(i.e., the period in which there are enforceable rights and obligations).

TRG members generally agreed that enforceable rights and obligations exist

throughout the term in which each party has the unilateral enforceable right

to terminate the contract by compensating the other party. For example, if

a contract includes a substantive termination payment, the duration of the

contract would equal the period through which a termination penalty would

be due. This could be the stated contractual term or a shorter duration if the

termination penalty does not extend to the end of the contract. However,

TRG members observed that the determination of whether a termination

penalty is substantive, and what constitutes enforceable rights and

obligations under a contract, requires judgement and consideration of the

facts and circumstances. The TRG agenda paper also noted that, if an entity

concludes that the duration of the contract is less than the stated term

because of a termination clause, any termination penalty needs to be

included in the transaction price. If the termination penalty is variable, the

requirements for variable consideration, including the constraint (see

section 5.2.3), apply.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 66

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

TRG members also agreed that if a contract with a stated contractual term

can be terminated by either party at any time for no consideration, the

contract duration ends when control of the goods or services that have

already been provided transfers to the customer (e.g., a month-to-month

service contract), regardless of the contract’s stated contractual term. In this

case, entities also need to consider whether a contract includes a notification

or cancellation period (e.g., the contract can be terminated with 90 days’

notice) that would cause the contract duration to extend beyond the date

when control of the goods or services that have already been provided were

transferred to the customer. If such a period exists, the contract duration

would be shorter than the stated contractual term, but would extend beyond

the date when control of the goods or services that have already been

provided were transferred to the customer. Consider the following examples

that illustrate how termination provisions affect the duration of a contract:

Illustration 3-2 — Determining the duration of the contract

Entity A enters into a four-year service contract with a customer. The

customer is required to pay a non-refundable annual fee of CU100,000,

which is the stand-alone selling price for each year of service.

To determine the duration of the contract in each of the scenarios below,

the entity considers these facts and whether the contract provides

cancellation rights and termination penalties.

Scenario A: Assume no cancellation rights are provided to either party. In

this case, the enforceable rights and obligations exist for the entire stated

contractual term and the contract duration is four years.

Scenario B: Assume the contract provides the customer with a right to

cancel the contract at the end of each year without cause, but with a

termination penalty. The penalty decreases annually throughout the

contract term at the end of each year. The following illustrates the

payments under the contract:

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Annual fee (CU)

100,000

Termination penalty (CU)

225,000

150,000

75,000

–

If Entity A determines that the penalty is substantive in each period,

enforceable rights and obligations exist for the stated contractual term of

four years.

Scenario C: Assume the contract provides the customer with a right to

cancel at the end of each year, with no termination penalty.

In this case, Entity A determines that the contract duration is one year,

with options to renew for each of the following three years because the

customer can choose whether to receive the service during those years.

That is, Entity A determines that enforceable rights and obligations do not

exist throughout the entire stated contractual term because there is no

substantive termination penalty. The options to renew are not material

rights because they are offered at the stand-alone selling price of

CU100,000.

67 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 3-3 — Duration of contract without a termination penalty

Entity A enters into a three-year contract with a customer to provide

maintenance services. Entity A begins providing the services immediately.

Consideration is payable in equal monthly instalments and each party

has the unilateral right to terminate the contract without compensating

the other party if it provides 30 days’ notice.

While the stated contractual term is three years, Entity A’s rights and

obligations are enforceable only for 30 days. Therefore, under IFRS 15,

the contract is accounted for as a one-month contract, with a renewal

option for additional months of maintenance services. This is because the

customer or Entity A could cancel the agreement with 30 days’ notice

without paying a substantive termination payment.

Entity A also needs to evaluate the accounting for the renewal option(s) to

determine whether it is a material right (see section 4.6).

Question 3-7: How should an entity evaluate the contract term when only

the customer has the right to cancel the contract without cause and how do

termination penalties affect this analysis? [TRG meeting 9 November 2015

– Agenda paper no. 48]

Enforceable rights and obligations exist throughout the term in which

each party has the unilateral enforceable right to terminate the contract by

compensating the other party. Members of the TRG did not view a customer-

only right to terminate sufficient to warrant a different conclusion than one in

which both parties have the right to terminate, as discussed in Question 3-8.

TRG members generally agreed that a substantive termination penalty

payable by a customer to the entity is evidence of enforceable rights and

obligations of both parties throughout the period covered by the termination

penalty. For example, consider a four-year service contract in which the

customer has the right to cancel without cause at the end of each year, but

for which the customer would incur a termination penalty that decreases

each year and is determined to be substantive. TRG members generally

agreed that the arrangement would be treated as a four-year contract. Refer

to Illustration 3-2, Scenario B in Question 3-6.

TRG members also discussed situations in which a contractual penalty would

result in including optional goods or services in the accounting for the original

contract (see Question 4-14 in section 4.6).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 68

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

TRG members observed that the determination of whether a termination

penalty is substantive, and what constitutes enforceable rights and

obligations under a contract, requires judgement and consideration of

the facts and circumstances. In addition, it is possible that payments that

effectively act as a termination penalty and create or negate enforceable

rights and obligations may not be labelled as such in a contract. The TRG

agenda paper included an illustration in which an entity sells equipment

and consumables. The equipment is sold at a discount, but the customer

is required to repay some or all of the discount if it does not purchase a

minimum number of consumables. The TRG paper concludes that the penalty

(i.e., forfeiting the upfront discount) is substantive and is evidence of

enforceable rights and obligations up to the minimum quantity. This example

is discussed further in Question 4-14 of section 4.6.

If enforceable rights and obligations do not exist throughout the entire

term stated in the contract, TRG members generally agreed that customer

cancellation rights would be treated as customer options. Examples

include when there are no (or non-substantive) contractual penalties that

compensate the entity upon cancellation and when the customer has

the unilateral right to terminate the contract for reasons other than cause

or contingent events outside the customer’s control. In the Basis for

Conclusions, the Board noted that a cancellation option or termination right

can be similar to a renewal option.

An entity would need to determine

whether a cancellation option indicates that the customer has a material right

that would need to be accounted for as a performance obligation (e.g., there

is a discount for goods or services provided during the cancellable period

that provides the customer with a material right) (see section 4.6 for further

discussion on customer options and the determination of whether an option

represents a material right).

Question 3-8: If an entity has a past practice of not enforcing termination

payments, does this affect the duration of the contract (i.e., the contractual

period)? [TRG meeting 31 October 2014 – Agenda paper no. 10]

The TRG agenda paper noted that the evaluation of the termination payment

in determining the duration of a contract depends on whether the law (which

may vary by jurisdiction) considers past practice as limiting the parties’

enforceable rights and obligations. An entity’s past practice of allowing

customers to terminate the contract early without enforcing collection of

the termination payment only affects the contract duration in cases in which

the parties’ legally enforceable rights and obligations are limited because of

the lack of enforcement by the entity. If that past practice does not change

the parties’ legally enforceable rights and obligations, the contract duration

equals the period throughout which a substantive termination penalty would

be due (which could be the stated contractual term or a shorter duration if

the termination penalty did not extend to the end of the contract).

IFRS 15.BC391.

69 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 3-9: How would an entity account for a partial termination of a

contract (e.g., a change in the contract term from three years to two years

prior to the beginning of year two)?

We believe an entity should account for the partial termination of a contract

as a contract modification (see section 3.4) because it results in a change in

the scope of the contract. IFRS 15 states that “a contract modification exists

when the parties to a contract approve a modification that either creates

new or changes existing enforceable rights and obligations of the parties to

the contract”.

A partial termination of a contract results in a change to the

enforceable rights and obligations in the existing contract. This conclusion

is consistent with the TRG agenda paper no. 48, which states, “a substantive

termination penalty is evidence of enforceable rights and obligations

throughout the contract term. The termination penalty is ignored until

the contract is terminated at which point it is accounted for as a

modification”.

Consider the following example:

Illustration 3-4 — Partial termination of a contract

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to provide monthly

maintenance services for three years at a fixed price of CU500 per month

(i.e., total consideration of CU18,000). The contract includes a termination

clause that allows the customer to cancel the third year of the contract by

paying a termination penalty of CU1,000 (which is considered substantive

for the purpose of this example). The penalty would effectively result in an

adjusted price per month for two years of CU542 (i.e., total consideration

of CU13,000). At the end of the first year, the customer decides to cancel

the third year of the contract and pays the CU1,000 termination penalty

specified in the contract.

In this example, the modification is not accounted for as a separate

contract because it does not result in the addition of distinct goods or

services (see section 3.4.2). Since the remaining services are distinct,

the entity applies the requirements in IFRS 15.21(a) and accounts for

the modification prospectively. The remaining consideration of CU7,000

(CU6,000 per year under the original contract for the second year, plus

the CU1,000 payment upon modification) is recognised over the remaining

revised contract period of one year. That is, the entity recognises the

CU1,000 termination penalty over the remaining performance period.

Question 3-10: How does an entity account for services provided during a

period after contract expiration in which enforceable rights and obligations

do not exist until the contract is renewed?

If an entity continues to provide services to a customer during a period when

a contract does not exist because a previous contract has expired and the

contract has not yet been renewed, we believe that the entity would need to

recognise revenue for providing those services on a cumulative catch-up

basis at the time the contract is renewed (i.e., when enforceable rights and

obligations exist between the entity and its customer).

IFRS 15.18.

TRG Agenda paper no. 48, Customer options for additional goods and services, dated

9 November 2015, paragraph 47a.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 70

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

As discussed in section 3, determining whether an enforceable contract exists

under the model may require judgement and an evaluation of the relevant

legal framework.

This approach to record revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis reflects the

performance obligations that are partially satisfied at the time enforceable

rights and obligations exist and is consistent with the overall principle of the

standard that requires revenue to be recognised when (or as) an entity

transfers control of goods or services to a customer under an enforceable

contract. This conclusion is also consistent with the discussion in Question 7-

19 on the accounting for goods or services provided to a customer before the

contract establishment date.

Consider the following example:

Illustration 3-5 — Services provided during a period after contract

expiration

Entity A enters into a non-cancellable one-year contract with a customer

on 1 January 20X1 to provide web-hosting services that are transferred to

the customer over time. The total consideration of CU1,200 is payable

upfront and is non-refundable. After the expiration of the contract, at its

discretion, Entity A continues to provide web-hosting services to the

customer for a limited time to allow the customer to contemplate renewing

the contract. If the customer renews the contract, the pricing would

include the web-hosting services provided during the period between the

original contract expiration and the contract renewal.

The customer agrees to renew the contract on 1 February 20X2.

Entity A agrees to provide web-hosting services from 1 January 20X2 to

31 December 20X2 for total consideration of CU1,200, which is payable

on the renewal date. Entity A determines that enforceable rights and

obligations exist on 1 February 20X2 and recognises revenue on a

cumulative catch-up basis to reflect the entity’s transfer of control of the

web-hosting services for one month (i.e., January 20X2). Accordingly,

Entity A recognises CU100 on 1 February 20X2 for the web-hosting

services provided to the customer before the renewal date. The

remaining consideration of CU1,100 is recognised from 1 February 20X2 to

31 December 20X2 as the entity performs.

An entity might receive consideration from the customer for the goods or

services transferred before the existence of an enforceable contract. If so,

the entity would need to follow the requirements in IFRS 15.14-16 (discussed

in section 3.5). This requires that when an arrangement does not meet the

criteria to be a contract under the standard, an entity would recognise the

non-refundable consideration received as revenue only if one of the two

events has occurred (e.g., the entity has no remaining obligations to transfer

goods or services to the customer and all, or substantially all, of the

consideration promised by the customer has been received by the entity and

is non-refundable).

71 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

3.3 Combining contracts (updated October 2018)

In most cases, entities apply the model to individual contracts with a customer.

However, the standard requires entities to combine contracts entered into at, or

near, the same time with the same customer (or related parties of the customer

as defined in IAS 24

Related Party Disclosures

) if they meet one or more of the

criteria below:

• The contracts are negotiated together with a single commercial objective

• The consideration to be paid for one contract is dependent on the price or

performance of another contract

• The goods or services promised in the contracts are a single performance

obligation (see section 4)

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board explained that it included the

requirements on combining contracts in the standard because, in some cases,

the amount and timing of revenue may differ depending on whether an entity

accounts for contracts as a single contract or separately.

Entities need to apply judgement to determine whether contracts are entered

into at or near the same time because the standard does not provide a bright

line for making this assessment. In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board noted

that the longer the period between entering into different contracts, the more

likely it is that the economic circumstances affecting the negotiations of those

contracts will have changed.

Negotiating multiple contracts at the same time is not sufficient evidence to

demonstrate that the contracts represent a single arrangement for accounting

purposes. In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board noted that there are pricing

interdependencies between two or more contracts when either of the first two

criteria (i.e., the contracts are negotiated with a single commercial objective

or the price in one contract depends on the price or performance of the other

contract) are met, so the amount of consideration allocated to the performance

obligations in each contract may not faithfully depict the value of the goods or

services transferred to the customer if those contracts were not combined.

The Board also explained that it decided to include the third criterion (i.e., the

goods or services in the contracts are a single performance obligation) to avoid

any structuring opportunities that would effectively allow entities to bypass the

requirements for identifying performance obligations.

That is, an entity

cannot avoid determining whether multiple promises made to a customer at,

or near, the same time need to be bundled into one or more performance

obligations in accordance with Step 2 of the model (see section 4) solely by

including the promises in separate contracts.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

IFRS 15 provides more requirements on when to combine contracts than the

legacy requirements in IAS 18. IAS 18 indicated that the recognition criteria

should be applied to two or more transactions on a combined basis “when they

are linked in such a way that the commercial effect cannot be understood without

reference to the series of transactions as a whole”.

The IFRS 15 contract combination requirements are similar to the legacy

requirements in IAS 11, but there are some notable differences. IAS 11 allowed

IFRS 15.BC74

IFRS 15.BC71.

IFRS 15.BC75.

IFRS 15.BC73.

IAS 18.13.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 72

an entity to combine contracts with several customers, provided the relevant

criteria for combination were met. In contrast, the contract combination

requirements in IFRS 15 only apply to contracts with the same customer or

related parties of the customer. Unlike IFRS 15, IAS 11 did not require that

contracts be entered into at or near the same time.

IAS 11 also required that all criteria be met before contracts can be combined,

while IFRS 15 requires that one or more of its criteria to be met. The criteria for

combination in the two standards are similar. The main difference is the criterion

in IFRS 15.17(c), which considers a performance obligation across different

contracts. In contrast, IAS 11 considered concurrent or sequential

performance.

Overall, the criteria in IFRS 15 are generally consistent with the underlying

principles in the legacy revenue standards on combining contracts. However,

since IFRS 15 explicitly requires an entity to combine contracts if one or more

of the criteria in IFRS 15.17 are met, some entities that have not combined

contracts in the past may need to do so.

3.3.1 Portfolio approach practical expedient

Under the standard, the five-step model is applied to individual contracts with

customers, unless the contract combination requirements discussed in

section 3.3 are met. However, the IASB recognised that there may be situations

in which it may be more practical for an entity to group contracts for revenue

recognition purposes, rather than attempt to account for each contract

separately. Specifically, the standard includes the following practical expedient:

Extract from IFRS 15

4. This Standard specifies the accounting for an individual contract with

a customer. However, as a practical expedient, an entity may apply this

Standard to a portfolio of contracts (or performance obligations) with

similar characteristics if the entity reasonably expects that the effects on

the financial statements of applying this Standard to the portfolio would

not differ materially from applying this Standard to the individual contracts

(or performance obligations) within that portfolio. When accounting for a

portfolio, an entity shall use estimates and assumptions that reflect the size

and composition of the portfolio.

In order to use the portfolio approach, an entity must reasonably expect that

the accounting result will not be materially different from the result of applying

the standard to the individual contracts. However, in the Basis for Conclusions,

the Board noted that it does not intend for an entity to quantitatively evaluate

every possible outcome when concluding that the portfolio approach is not

materially different. Instead, they indicated that an entity should be able to take

a reasonable approach to determine portfolios that are representative of its

types of customers and that an entity should use judgement in selecting the size

and composition of those portfolios.

IAS 11.9(c).

IFRS 15.BC69.

73 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

How we see it

Application of the portfolio approach will likely vary based on the facts and

circumstances of each entity. An entity may choose to apply the portfolio

approach to only certain aspects of the model (e.g., determining the

transaction price in Step 3).

Frequently asked questions

Question 3-11: How would an entity assess collectability for a portfolio of

contracts? [TRG meeting 26 January 2015 – Agenda paper no. 13]

See response to Question 3-4 in section 3.1.5.

3.4 Contract modifications (updated October 2018)

Parties to an arrangement frequently agree to modify the scope or price (or

both) of their contract. If that happens, an entity must determine whether

the modification is accounted for as a new contract or as part of the existing

contract. Generally, it is clear when a contract modification has taken place, but

in some circumstances, that determination is more difficult. To assist entities

when making this determination, the standard states the following:

Extract from IFRS 15

18. A contract modification is a change in the scope or price (or both) of

a contract that is approved by the parties to the contract. In some industries

and jurisdictions, a contract modification may be described as a change

order, a variation or an amendment. A contract modification exists when

the parties to a contract approve a modification that either creates new

or changes existing enforceable rights and obligations of the parties to

the contract. A contract modification could be approved in writing, by oral

agreement or implied by customary business practices. If the parties to the

contract have not approved a contract modification, an entity shall continue

to apply this Standard to the existing contract until the contract modification

is approved.

19. A contract modification may exist even though the parties to the contract

have a dispute about the scope or price (or both) of the modification or the

parties have approved a change in the scope of the contract but have not

yet determined the corresponding change in price. In determining whether

the rights and obligations that are created or changed by a modification

are enforceable, an entity shall consider all relevant facts and circumstances

including the terms of the contract and other evidence. If the parties to a

contract have approved a change in the scope of the contract but have not

yet determined the corresponding change in price, an entity shall estimate

the change to the transaction price arising from the modification in

accordance with paragraphs 50–54 on estimating variable consideration

and paragraphs 56–58 on constraining estimates of variable consideration.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 74

The extract above illustrates that the Board intended these requirements to

apply more broadly than only to finalised modifications. That is, IFRS 15

indicates that an entity may have to account for a contract modification prior

to the parties reaching final agreement on changes in scope or pricing (or both).

Instead of focusing on the finalisation of a modification, IFRS 15 focuses on

the enforceability of the changes to the rights and obligations in the contract.

Once an entity determines the revised rights and obligations are enforceable,

it accounts for the contract modification.

The standard provides the following example to illustrate this point:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 9 — Unapproved change in scope and price (IFRS 15.IE42-IE43)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to construct a building on

customer-owned land. The contract states that the customer will provide the

entity with access to the land within 30 days of contract inception. However,

the entity was not provided access until 120 days after contract inception

because of storm damage to the site that occurred after contract inception.

The contract specifically identifies any delay (including force majeure) in the

entity’s access to customer-owned land as an event that entitles the entity to

compensation that is equal to actual costs incurred as a direct result of the

delay. The entity is able to demonstrate that the specific direct costs were

incurred as a result of the delay in accordance with the terms of the contract

and prepares a claim. The customer initially disagreed with the entity’s claim.

The entity assesses the legal basis of the claim and determines, on

the basis of the underlying contractual terms, that it has enforceable

rights. Consequently, it accounts for the claim as a contract modification in

accordance with paragraphs 18–21 of IFRS 15. The modification does not

result in any additional goods and services being provided to the customer.

In addition, all of the remaining goods and services after the modification are

not distinct and form part of a single performance obligation. Consequently,

the entity accounts for the modification in accordance with paragraph 21(b)

of IFRS 15 by updating the transaction price and the measure of progress

towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation. The entity

considers the constraint on estimates of variable consideration in

paragraphs 56–58 of IFRS 15 when estimating the transaction price.

Once an entity has determined that a contract has been modified, the entity

determines the appropriate accounting treatment for the modification. Certain

modifications are treated as separate stand-alone contracts, while others

are combined with the original contract and accounted for in that manner.

In addition, an entity accounts for some modifications on a prospective basis

and others on a cumulative catch-up basis. The Board developed different

approaches to account for different types of modifications with an overall

objective of faithfully depicting an entity’s rights and obligations in each

modified contract.

IFRS 15.BC76.

75 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The standard includes the following requirements for determining the

appropriate accounting treatment:

Extract from IFRS 15

20. An entity shall account for a contract modification as a separate contract

if both of the following conditions are present:

(a) the scope of the contract increases because of the addition of promised

goods or services that are distinct (in accordance with paragraphs 26–

30); and

(b) the price of the contract increases by an amount of consideration that

reflects the entity’s stand-alone selling prices of the additional promised

goods or services and any appropriate adjustments to that price to

reflect the circumstances of the particular contract. For example, an

entity may adjust the stand-alone selling price of an additional good or

service for a discount that the customer receives, because it is not

necessary for the entity to incur the selling-related costs that it would

incur when selling a similar good or service to a new customer.

21. If a contract modification is not accounted for as a separate contract

in accordance with paragraph 20, an entity shall account for the promised

goods or services not yet transferred at the date of the contract modification

(ie the remaining promised goods or services) in whichever of the following

ways is applicable:

(a) An entity shall account for the contract modification as if it were a

termination of the existing contract and the creation of a new contract,

if the remaining goods or services are distinct from the goods or services

transferred on or before the date of the contract modification. The

amount of consideration to be allocated to the remaining performance

obligations (or to the remaining distinct goods or services in a single

performance obligation identified in accordance with paragraph 22(b)) is

the sum of:

(i) the consideration promised by the customer (including amounts

already received from the customer) that was included in the

estimate of the transaction price and that had not been recognised

as revenue; and

(ii) the consideration promised as part of the contract modification.

(b) An entity shall account for the contract modification as if it were a part

of the existing contract if the remaining goods or services are not distinct

and, therefore, form part of a single performance obligation that is

partially satisfied at the date of the contract modification. The effect that

the contract modification has on the transaction price, and on the entity’s

measure of progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance

obligation, is recognised as an adjustment to revenue (either as an

increase in or a reduction of revenue) at the date of the contract

modification (ie the adjustment to revenue is made on a cumulative

catch-up basis).

then the entity shall account for the effects of the modification on the

unsatisfied (including partially unsatisfied) performance obligations in

the modified contract in a manner that is consistent with the objectives

of this paragraph.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 76

The following chart illustrates these requirements:

* Under IFRS 15, a contract modification can be approved in writing, by oral agreement or implied

by customary business practices. IFRS 15.19 states that an entity may have to account for

a contract modification prior to the parties reaching final agreement on changes in scope

or pricing (or both), provided the rights and obligations that are created or changed by a

modification are enforceable.

** In accordance with IFRS 15.20, an entity may make appropriate adjustments to the stand-alone

selling price to reflect the circumstances of the contract and still meet the criteria to account for

the modification as a separate contract.

When determining how to account for a contract modification, an entity must

consider whether any additional goods or services are distinct, often giving

careful consideration to whether those goods or services are distinct within the

context of the modified contract (see sections 4.2.1 for further discussion on

evaluating whether goods or services are distinct). That is, although a contract

modification may add a new good or service that would be distinct in a stand-

alone transaction, that new good or service may not be distinct when considered

in the context of the contract, as modified. For example, in a building renovation

project, a customer may request a contract modification to add a new room. The

construction firm may commonly sell the construction of an added room on a

stand-alone basis, which would indicate that the service is capable of being

distinct. However, when that service is added to an existing contract and the

entity has already determined that the entire project is a single performance

Yes

Account for the new goods or services as a

separate contract.

Have the parties approved a

modification that changes the

scope or price (or both) of the

contract?*

Treat the modification as a termination of

the existing contract and the creation of a

new contract. Allocate the total remaining

transaction price (unrecognised

transaction price from the existing

contract plus additional transaction price

from the modification) to the remaining

goods or services (both from the existing

contract and the modification).

Are the remaining

goods or services

distinct from those

already provided?

Update the transaction price and allocate it

to the remaining performance obligations

(both from the existing contract and the

modification). Adjust revenue previously

recognised based on an updated measure of

progress for the partially satisfied

performance obligations. Do not adjust the

accounting for completed performance

obligations that are distinct from the

modified goods or services.

Update the transaction price and measure of

progress for the single performance obligation

(recognise change as a cumulative catch-up to

revenue).

Yes

Both yes and no

Is the contract modification for additional

goods or services that are distinct and

at their stand-alone selling price?**

Continue to account for the

existing contract and do not

account for the contract

modification until approved.

Yes

77 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

obligation, the added goods or services would normally be combined with the

existing bundle of goods or services.

In contrast to the construction example (for which the addition of otherwise

distinct goods or services are combined with the existing single performance

obligation and accounted for in that manner), a contract modification that adds

distinct goods or services to a single performance obligation that is a series

of distinct goods or services (see section 4.2.2) is accounted for either as

a separate contract or as the termination of the old contract and the creation

of a new contract (i.e., prospectively). In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board

explained that it clarified the accounting for modifications that affect a single

performance obligation that is made up of a series of distinct goods or

services (e.g., repetitive service contracts) to address some stakeholders’

concerns that an entity otherwise would have been required to account for

these modifications on a cumulative catch-up basis.

As illustrated in Example 5, Case B (see section 3.4.2), a contract modification

may include compensation to a customer for performance issues (e.g., poor

service by the entity, defects present in transferred goods). An entity may need

to account for the compensation to the customer as a change in the transaction

price (see section 6.5) separate from other modifications to the contract.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

The requirement to determine whether to treat a change in contractual terms

as a separate contract or a modification to an existing contract is similar to

the legacy requirements in IAS 11 for construction contracts.

In contrast,

IAS 18 did not provide detailed application guidance on how to determine

whether a change in contractual terms should be treated as a separate contract

or a modification to an existing contract. Despite there being some similarities

to legacy IFRS, the requirements in IFRS 15 for contract modifications are much

more detailed. Therefore, the requirements in IFRS 15 may have resulted in a

change in practice for some entities. Entities may have also needed to update

their processes and controls for the contract modifications requirements.

IFRS 15.BC79.

IAS 11.13.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 78

Frequently asked questions

Question 3-12: When would an entity evaluate a contract under the contract

modification requirements?

An entity typically enters into a separate contract with a customer to provide

additional goods or services. Stakeholders had questioned whether a new

contract with an existing customer needs to be evaluated under the contract

modification requirements.

A new contract with an existing customer needs to be evaluated under the

contract modification requirements if the new contract results in a change in

the scope or price of the original contract. IFRS 15.18 states that “a contract

modification exists when the parties to a contract approve a modification that

either creates new or changes existing enforceable rights and obligations of

the parties to the contract”. Therefore, an entity needs to evaluate whether

a new contract with an existing customer represents a legally enforceable

change in scope or price to an existing contract.

In some cases, the determination of whether a new contract with an existing

customer creates new or changes existing enforceable rights and obligations

is straightforward because the new contract does not contemplate goods or

services in the existing contract, including the pricing of those goods or

services. Purchases of additional goods or services under a separate contract

that do not modify the scope or price of an existing contract do not need to

be evaluated under the contract modification requirements. Rather, they are

accounted for as new (separate) contract.

In other cases, the determination of whether a new contract is a modification

of an existing contract requires judgement. In such circumstances,

we believe an entity should consider the specific facts and circumstances

surrounding the new contract in order to determine whether it represents

a contract modification. This could include considering factors such as those

included in the contract combination requirements (see section 3.3):

•

Whether the contracts were negotiated as a package with a single

commercial objective (this might be the case in situations where the

existing contract contemplates future modifications).

•

Whether the amount of consideration to be paid in one contract depends

on the price or performance of the other contract.

•

Whether the goods or services promised in the contracts (or some goods

or services promised in each of the contracts) are a single performance

obligation.

If the pricing in the new contract is dependent on the original contract, or if

the terms of the new contract are in some other way negotiated based on

the original contract, it is likely that the new contract needs to be evaluated

under the contract modification requirements.

79 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 3-13: When an arrangement that has already been determined to

meet the standard’s contract criteria is modified, would an entity need to

reassess whether that arrangement still meets the criteria to be considered

a contract within the scope of the five-step model?

There is no specific requirement in the standard to reconsider whether a

contract meets the definition of a contract when it is modified. However, if

a contract is modified, we believe that may indicate that “a significant change

in facts and circumstances” has occurred (see section 3.1) and that the entity

should reassess the criteria in IFRS 15.9 for the modified contract. Any

reassessment is prospective in nature and would not change the conclusions

associated with goods or services already transferred. That is, an entity would

not reverse any receivables, revenue or contract assets already recognised

under the contract because of the reassessment of the contract criteria in

IFRS 15.9. However, due to the contract modification accounting (see

section 3.4.2), the entity may need to adjust contract assets or cumulative

revenue recognised in the period of the contract modification.

Question 3-14: How would an entity account for the exercise of a material

right? That is, would an entity account for it as: a contract modification,

a continuation of the existing contract or variable consideration? [TRG

meeting 30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 32]

See response to Question 4-18 in section 4.6.

Question 3-15: How should entities account for modifications to licences

of intellectual property?

See response to Question 8-1 in section 8.1.4.

3.4.1 Contract modification represents a separate contract (updated

September 2019)

Certain contract modifications are treated as separate, new contracts.

For

these modifications, the accounting for the original contract is not affected by

the modification and the revenue recognised to date on the original contract

is not adjusted. Furthermore, any performance obligations remaining under

the original contract continue to be accounted for under the original contract.

The accounting for this type of modification reflects the fact that there is no

economic difference between a separate contract for additional goods or

services and a modified contract for those same items, provided the two criteria

required for this type of modification are met.

The first criterion that must be met for a modification to be treated as

a separate contract is that the additional promised goods or services in

the modification must be distinct from the promised goods or services in the

original contract. This assessment is done in accordance with IFRS 15’s general

requirements for determining whether promised goods or services are distinct

(see section 4.2.1). Only modifications that add distinct goods or services to

the arrangement can be treated as separate contracts. Arrangements that

reduce the amount of promised goods or services or change the scope of

the original promised goods or services cannot, by their very nature, be

considered separate contracts. Instead, they are modifications of the original

contract (see section 3.4.2).

100

IFRS 15.20.

100

IFRS 15.20(a).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 80

The second criterion is that the amount of consideration expected for the added

promised goods or services must reflect the stand-alone selling prices of those

promised goods or services at the contract modification date. However, when

determining the stand-alone selling price, entities have some flexibility to adjust

the stand-alone selling price, depending on the facts and circumstances. For

example, an entity may give an existing customer a discount on additional

goods because the entity would not incur selling-related costs that it would

typically incur for new customers. In this example, the entity may determine

that the additional transaction consideration meets the criterion, even though

the discounted price is less than the stand-alone selling price of that good or

service for a new customer. In another example, an entity may conclude that,

with the additional purchases, the customer qualifies for a volume-based

discount (see Questions 4-12 and 4-13 in section 4.6 on volume discounts).

101

The following example illustrates considerations for determining whether the

amount of consideration expected for the additional goods and services reflects

the stand-alone selling price:

Illustration 3-6 — Determining whether the amount of consideration

reflects the stand-alone selling price of additional goods or services

Entity E agrees to construct a manufacturing facility on a customer’s land for

CU10 million. During construction, the customer determines that a separate

storage facility is needed at the location. The parties agree to modify the

contract to include the construction of the storage facility, which is to be

completed within three months of completing the manufacturing facility, for a

total price of CU11 million (i.e., when the contract is modified, an additional

CU1 million is added to the consideration Entity E will receive). Assume that

Entity E determines that the construction of the separate storage facility is

distinct (i.e., a performance obligation) and that it transfers control of each

facility over time. Entity E must determine whether the CU1 million

represents the stand-alone selling price of the separate storage facility.

Scenario A

Entity E determines that CU1.1 million is the stand-alone selling price at the

contract modification date for the construction of a similar facility. However,

much of the equipment and labour force necessary to complete construction

of the storage facility is already onsite and available for use by Entity E. Thus,

Entity E concludes that the additional CU1 million reflects the stand-alone

selling price at contract modification, adjusted for the circumstances of the

contract.

Scenario B

Entity E determines that CU1.5 million is the stand-alone selling price at the

contract modification date for the construction of a similar facility. While

Entity E can attribute some of the discount to its ability to use equipment and

labour that are already onsite, the price reduction was primarily driven by

other factors (e.g., a desire to maintain the customer relationship).

Therefore, the additional CU1 million does not reflect the stand-alone selling

price at contract modification.

101

IFRS 15.20(b).

81 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

In situations with highly variable pricing, determining whether the additional

consideration in a modified contract reflects the stand-alone selling price for the

additional goods or services may not be straightforward. Entities need to apply

judgement when making this assessment. Evaluating whether the price in the

modified contract is within a range of prices for which the goods or services

are typically sold to similar customers may be an acceptable approach.

The following example illustrates a contract modification that represents a

separate contract:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 5 — Modification of a contract for goods (IFRS 15.IE19-IE21)

An entity promises to sell 120 products to a customer for CU12,000 (CU100

per product). The products are transferred to the customer over a six-month

period. The entity transfers control of each product at a point in time. After

the entity has transferred control of 60 products to the customer, the

contract is modified to require the delivery of an additional 30 products (a

total of 150 identical products) to the customer. The additional 30 products

were not included in the initial contract.

Case A—Additional products for a price that reflects the stand-alone selling

price

When the contract is modified, the price of the contract modification for

the additional 30 products is an additional CU2,850 or CU95 per product.

The pricing for the additional products reflects the stand-alone selling price

of the products at the time of the contract modification and the additional

products are distinct (in accordance with paragraph 27 of IFRS 15) from

the original products.

In accordance with paragraph 20 of IFRS 15, the contract modification for

the additional 30 products is, in effect, a new and separate contract for future

products that does not affect the accounting for the existing contract. The

entity recognises revenue of CU100 per product for the 120 products in

the original contract and CU95 per product for the 30 products in the new

contract.

3.4.2 Contract modification is not a separate contract (updated September

2019)

If the criteria discussed in section 3.4.1 are not met (i.e., distinct goods or

services are not added or the distinct goods or services are not priced at their

stand-alone selling price), the contract modifications are accounted for as

changes to the original contract and not as separate contracts. This includes

contract modifications that modify or remove previously agreed-upon goods or

services or reduce the price of the contract. An entity accounts for the effects

of these modifications differently, depending on which of the three scenarios

described in IFRS 15.21 (see the extract in section 3.3) most closely aligns with

the facts and circumstances of the modification.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 82

Modification is a termination of the existing contract and the creation of a

new contract

If the remaining goods or services after the contract modification are distinct

from the goods or services transferred on, or before, the contract modification,

the entity accounts for the modification as if it were a termination of the old

contract and the creation of a new contract. For these modifications, the

revenue recognised to date on the original contract (i.e., the amount associated

with the completed performance obligations) is not adjusted. Instead, the

remaining portion of the original contract and the modification are accounted

for, together, on a prospective basis by allocating the remaining consideration

(i.e., the unrecognised transaction price from the existing contract plus the

additional transaction price from the modification) to the remaining

performance obligations, including those added in the modification. This

scenario is illustrated as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 5 — Modification of a contract for goods (IFRS 15.IE19, IE22-IE24)

An entity promises to sell 120 products to a customer for CU12,000 (CU100

per product). The products are transferred to the customer over a six-month

period. The entity transfers control of each product at a point in time. After

the entity has transferred control of 60 products to the customer, the

contract is modified to require the delivery of an additional 30 products (a

total of 150 identical products) to the customer. The additional 30 products

were not included in the initial contract.

Case B—Additional products for a price that does not reflect the stand-alone

selling price

During the process of negotiating the purchase of an additional 30 products,

the parties initially agree on a price of CU80 per product. However, the

customer discovers that the initial 60 products transferred to the customer

contained minor defects that were unique to those delivered products.

The entity promises a partial credit of CU15 per product to compensate the

customer for the poor quality of those products. The entity and the customer

agree to incorporate the credit of CU900 (CU15 credit × 60 products) into

the price that the entity charges for the additional 30 products. Consequently,

the contract modification specifies that the price of the additional 30 products

is CU1,500 or CU50 per product. That price comprises the agreed-upon price

for the additional 30 products of CU2,400, or CU80 per product, less the

credit of CU900.

At the time of modification, the entity recognises the CU900 as a reduction

of the transaction price and, therefore, as a reduction of revenue for the

initial 60 products transferred. In accounting for the sale of the additional

30 products, the entity determines that the negotiated price of CU80 per

product does not reflect the stand-alone selling price of the additional

products. Consequently, the contract modification does not meet the

conditions in paragraph 20 of IFRS 15 to be accounted for as a separate

contract. Because the remaining products to be delivered are distinct

from those already transferred, the entity applies the requirements

in paragraph 21(a) of IFRS 15 and accounts for the modification as a

termination of the original contract and the creation of a new contract.

Consequently, the amount recognised as revenue for each of the remaining

products is a blended price of CU93.33 {[(CU100 × 60 products not yet

transferred under the original contract) + (CU80 × 30 products to be

transferred under the contract modification)] ÷ 90 remaining products}.

83 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

In Example 5, Case B, in the extract above, the entity attributed a portion of

the discount provided on the additional products to the previously delivered

products because they contained defects. This is because the compensation

provided to the customer for the previously delivered products is a discount on

those products, which results in variable consideration (i.e., a price concession)

for them. The new discount on the previously delivered products was

recognised as a reduction of the transaction price (and, therefore, revenue)

on the date of the modification. Changes in the transaction price after contract

inception are accounted for in accordance with IFRS 15.88-90 (see section 6.5).

In similar situations, it may not be clear from the change in the contract terms

whether an entity has offered a price concession on previously transferred

goods or services to compensate the customer for performance issues related

to those items (that would be accounted for as a reduction of the transaction

price) or has offered a discount on future goods or services (that would be

included in the accounting for the contract modification). An entity needs

to apply judgement when performance issues exist for previously transferred

goods or services to determine whether to account for any compensation

to the customer as a change in the transaction price for those previously

transferred goods or services.

Modification is part of the existing contract

The remaining goods or services to be provided after the contract modification

may not be distinct from those goods or services already provided and,

therefore, form part of a single performance obligation that is partially satisfied

at the date of modification. If this is the case, the entity accounts for the

contract modification as if it were part of the original contract. The entity

adjusts revenue previously recognised (either up or down) to reflect the

effect that the contract modification has on the transaction price and update

the measure of progress (i.e., the revenue adjustment is made on a cumulative

catch-up basis). This scenario is illustrated as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 8 — Modification resulting in a cumulative catch-up adjustment to

revenue (IFRS 15.IE37-IE41)

An entity, a construction company, enters into a contract to construct a

commercial building for a customer on customer-owned land for promised

consideration of CU1 million and a bonus of CU200,000 if the building is

completed within 24 months. The entity accounts for the promised bundle

of goods and services as a single performance obligation satisfied over

time in accordance with paragraph 35(b) of IFRS 15 because the customer

controls the building during construction.

At the inception of the contract, the entity expects the following:

Transaction price

1,000,000

Expected costs

700,000

Expected profit (30%)

300,000

At contract inception, the entity excludes the CU200,000 bonus from the

transaction price because it cannot conclude that it is highly probable that

a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognised will

not occur. Completion of the building is highly susceptible to factors outside

the entity’s influence, including weather and regulatory approvals. In

addition, the entity has limited experience with similar types of contracts.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 84

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

The entity determines that the input measure, on the basis of costs incurred,

provides an appropriate measure of progress towards complete satisfaction

of the performance obligation. By the end of the first year, the entity has

satisfied 60 per cent of its performance obligation on the basis of costs

incurred to date (CU420,000) relative to total expected costs (CU700,000).

The entity reassesses the variable consideration and concludes that the

amount is still constrained in accordance with paragraphs 56–58 of IFRS 15.

Consequently, the cumulative revenue and costs recognised for the first year

are as follows:

Revenue

600,000

Costs

420,000

Gross profit

180,000

In the first quarter of the second year, the parties to the contract agree to

modify the contract by changing the floor plan of the building. As a result,

the fixed consideration and expected costs increase by CU150,000 and

CU120,000, respectively. Total potential consideration after the modification

is CU1,350,000 (CU1,150,000 fixed consideration + CU200,000 completion

bonus). In addition, the allowable time for achieving the CU200,000 bonus

is extended by 6 months to 30 months from the original contract inception

date. At the date of the modification, on the basis of its experience and the

remaining work to be performed, which is primarily inside the building and not

subject to weather conditions, the entity concludes that it is highly probable

that including the bonus in the transaction price will not result in a significant

reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognised in accordance with

paragraph 56 of IFRS 15 and includes the CU200,000 in the transaction

price. In assessing the contract modification, the entity evaluates

paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15 and concludes (on the basis of the factors

in paragraph 29 of IFRS 15) that the remaining goods and services to be

provided using the modified contract are not distinct from the goods and

services transferred on or before the date of contract modification; that is,

the contract remains a single performance obligation.

Consequently, the entity accounts for the contract modification as if it were

part of the original contract (in accordance with paragraph 21(b) of IFRS 15).

The entity updates its measure of progress and estimates that it has satisfied

51.2 per cent of its performance obligation (CU420,000 actual costs incurred

÷ CU820,000 total expected costs). The entity recognises additional revenue

of CU91,200 [(51.2 per cent complete × CU1,350,000 modified transaction

price) – CU600,000 revenue recognised to date] at the date of the

modification as a cumulative catch-up adjustment.

85 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Modification is part of the existing contract and the creation of a new

contract

Finally, a change in a contract may also be treated as a combination of the two:

a modification of the existing contract and the creation of a new contract. In

this case, an entity would not adjust the accounting treatment for completed

performance obligations that are distinct from the modified goods or services.

However, the entity would adjust revenue previously recognised (either up

or down) to reflect the effect of the contract modification on the estimated

transaction price allocated to performance obligations that are not distinct from

the modified portion of the contract and would update the measure of progress.

Frequently asked questions

Question 3-16: How would an entity account for a partial termination of a

contract (e.g., a change in the contract term from three years to two years

prior to the beginning of year two)?

See response to Question 3-9 in section 3.2.

Question 3-17: How would an entity account for a contract modification

that decreases the scope of a contract?

A modification that decreases the scope of a contract is not accounted for as

a separate contract because it does not result in the addition of distinct goods

or services (see section 3.4.2). The accounting will depend on whether the

remaining goods and services to be provided after the contract modification

are distinct from the goods and services already provided. If the remaining

goods and services are distinct, the contract modification is accounted for as

a termination of the old contract and the creation of a new contract

(i.e., prospectively). If the remaining goods and services are not distinct, the

contract modification is accounted for as if it were part of the original

contract (i.e., cumulative catch-up).

Furthermore, to modify a contract, a customer may agree to pay a fee. We

believe that such a fee is additional consideration that needs to be included in

the modified transaction price and allocated to the remaining goods and

services to be provided to the customer.

Consider the following example:

Illustration 3-7 — Contract modification that decreases the scope of

the promised goods or services in a contract

Entity X enters into a non-cancellable contract with a customer to provide

information technology (IT) outsourcing services continuously for a three-

year period. Entity X determines that the arrangement contains a single

performance obligation comprising a series of distinct services that is

transferred to the customer over time. Entity X bills the customer a fixed

price of CU500 per month (i.e., the total consideration is CU18,000).

At the end of the second year, Entity X and the customer modify the

contract to remove certain discrete services from the overall outsourcing

service. As part of the modification, the customer agrees to pay a contract

modification fee of CU500 and reduce the monthly payments to CU400

per month.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 86

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 3-7 — Contract modification that decreases the scope of

the promised goods or services in a contract (cont’d)

The services provided after the contract modification are distinct from

those provided before the contract modification. This is because the

performance obligation is a series of distinct services. Accordingly,

Entity X applies the requirements in IFRS 15.21(a) and accounts for the

modification prospectively. The remaining consideration of CU5,300

(CU4,800 for the services to be provided in the third year, plus the CU500

payment upon modification) is recognised over the remaining contract

period of one year. That is, Entity X recognises the CU500 contract

modification fee over the remaining performance period.

Question 3-18: How would an entity account for a contract asset that exists

when a contract is modified if the modification is treated as the termination

of an existing contract and the creation of a new contract? [FASB TRG

meeting 18 April 2016 - Agenda paper no. 51]

See response to Question 10-5 in section 10.1.

3.5 Arrangements that do not meet the definition of a contract

under the standard (updated October 2018)

If an arrangement does not meet the criteria to be considered a contract under

the standard, it must be accounted for as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

15. When a contract with a customer does not meet the criteria in

paragraph 9 and an entity receives consideration from the customer, the

entity shall recognise the consideration received as revenue only when either

of the following events has occurred:

(a) the entity has no remaining obligations to transfer goods or services to

the customer and all, or substantially all, of the consideration promised

by the customer has been received by the entity and is non-refundable; or

(b) the contract has been terminated and the consideration received from

the customer is non-refundable.

16. An entity shall recognise the consideration received from a customer as

a liability until one of the events in paragraph 15 occurs or until the criteria

in paragraph 9 are subsequently met (see paragraph 14). Depending on

the facts and circumstances relating to the contract, the liability recognised

represents the entity’s obligation to either transfer goods or services in the

future or refund the consideration received. In either case, the liability shall

be measured at the amount of consideration received from the customer.

87 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The following flow chart illustrates this requirement:

* Entities need to continue to assess the criteria throughout the term of the arrangement to

determine whether they are subsequently met.

Entities are required to continue to assess the criteria in IFRS 15.9 (as

discussed in section 3.1) throughout the term of the arrangement to determine

whether they are subsequently met. Once the criteria are met, the model in

the standard applies, rather than the requirements discussed below. If an entity

determines that the criteria in IFRS 15.9 are subsequently met, revenue is

recognised on a cumulative catch-up basis as at the date when a contract exists

within the scope of the model (i.e., at the ‘contract establishment date’,

reflecting the performance obligations that are partially, or fully, satisfied at

that date. This accounting is consistent with the discussion in TRG agenda

paper no. 33, which states that the cumulative catch-up method “best satisfies

the core principle” in IFRS 15.2.

102

See Question 7-19 in section 7.1.4.C for

further discussion).

If an arrangement does not meet the criteria in IFRS 15.9 (and until the criteria

are met), an entity only recognises non-refundable consideration received

as revenue when one of the events outlined above has occurred (i.e., full

performance and all (or substantially all) consideration received or the contract

has been terminated) or the arrangement subsequently meets the criteria in

IFRS 15.9.

Until one of these events happens, any consideration received from the

customer is initially accounted for as a liability (not revenue) and the liability

is measured at the amount of consideration received from the customer.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board indicated that it intended this accounting

to be “similar to the ‘deposit method’ that was previously included in US GAAP

and applied when there was no consummation of a sale”.

103

As noted in

the Basis for Conclusions, the Board decided to include the requirements

102

TRG Agenda paper no. 33, Partial Satisfaction of Performance Obligations Prior to

Identifying the Contract, dated 30 March 2015.

103

IFRS 15.BC48.

Yes

Apply the remaining steps of the

model to the contract (Steps 2-5)

Is the consideration received from the

customer non-refundable?

Recognise consideration received as a

liability

Recognise consideration received

as revenue

Has the contract been terminated?

Has the entity fulfilled its remaining

obligations to the customer and has all (or

substantially all) of the consideration

promised by the customer been received?

Yes

Does the arrangement meet the criteria in

IFRS 15 to be considered a contract within

the scope of the model in IFRS 15?*

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 88

in IFRS 15.14-16 to prevent entities from seeking alternative guidance or

improperly analogising to the five-step revenue recognition model in IFRS 15 in

circumstances in which an executed contract does not meet the criteria in

IFRS 15.9.

104

FASB differences

Under the FASB’s standard, when the arrangement does not meet the

criteria to be accounted for as a revenue contract under the standard,

an entity can also recognise revenue (at the amount of the non-refundable

consideration received) when the entity has transferred control of the goods

or services and has stopped transferring (and has no obligation to transfer)

additional goods or services.

IFRS 15 does not include a similar requirement. However, the IASB states

in the Basis for Conclusions on IFRS 15 that contracts often specify that

an entity has a right to terminate the contract in the event of non-payment.

Furthermore, such clauses would not generally affect the entity’s legal

rights to recover any amounts due. Therefore, the IASB concluded that the

requirements in IFRS 15 would allow an entity to conclude that a contract

is terminated when it stops providing goods or services to the customer.

105

Frequently asked questions

Question 3-19: When is a contract considered terminated for purposes of

applying IFRS 15.15(b)?

Determining whether a contract is terminated may require significant

judgement.

In the Basis for Conclusions on IFRS 15, “the IASB noted that contracts often

specify that an entity has the right to terminate the contract in the event of

non-payment by the customer and that this would not generally affect the

entity’s rights to recover any amounts owed by the customer. The IASB also

noted that an entity’s decision to stop pursuing collection would not typically

affect the entity’s rights and the customer’s obligations under the contract

with respect to the consideration owed by the customer. On this basis, … the

existing requirements in IFRS 15 are sufficient for an entity to conclude …

that a contract is terminated when it stops providing goods or services to

the customer.”

106

104

IFRS 15.BC47.

105

IFRS 15.BC46H.

106

IFRS 15.BC46H.

89 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

4. Identify the performance obligations in the

contract

To apply the standard, an entity must identify the promised goods or services

within the contract and determine which of those goods or services are

separate performance obligations. As noted in the Basis for Conclusions, the

Board developed the notion of a ’performance obligation’ to assist entities with

appropriately identifying the unit of account for the purposes of applying the

standard.

107

Because the standard requires entities to allocate the transaction

price to performance obligations, identifying the correct unit of account is

fundamental to recognising revenue on a basis that faithfully depicts the

entity’s performance in transferring the promised goods or services to the

customer.

The standard provides the following requirements with respect to identifying

the performance obligations in a contract:

Extract from IFRS 15

22. At contract inception, an entity shall assess the goods or services

promised in a contract with a customer and shall identify as a performance

obligation each promise to transfer to the customer either:

(a) a good or service (or a bundle of goods or services) that is distinct; or

(b) a series of distinct goods or services that are substantially the same

and that have the same pattern of transfer to the customer (see

paragraph 23).

23. A series of distinct goods or services has the same pattern of transfer

to the customer if both of the following criteria are met:

(a) each distinct good or service in the series that the entity promises to

transfer to the customer would meet the criteria in paragraph 35 to be

a performance obligation satisfied over time; and

(b) in accordance with paragraphs 39–40, the same method would be used

to measure the entity’s progress towards complete satisfaction of the

performance obligation to transfer each distinct good or service in the

series to the customer.

4.1 Identifying the promised goods or services in the contract

(updated September 2019)

As a first step in identifying the performance obligation(s) in the contract,

the standard requires an entity to identify, at contract inception, the promised

goods or services in the contract. However, unlike legacy IFRS, which did not

define elements/deliverables, the standard provides guidance on the types

of items that may be goods or services promised in the contract, as

follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

Promises in contracts with customers

24. A contract with a customer generally explicitly states the goods or

services that an entity promises to transfer to a customer. However, the

107

IFRS 15.BC85.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 90

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

performance obligations identified in a contract with a customer may not

be limited to the goods or services that are explicitly stated in that contract.

This is because a contract with a customer may also include promises that

are implied by an entity’s customary business practices, published policies

or specific statements if, at the time of entering into the contract, those

promises create a valid expectation of the customer that the entity will

transfer a good or service to the customer.

25. Performance obligations do not include activities that an entity must

undertake to fulfil a contract unless those activities transfer a good or service

to a customer. For example, a services provider may need to perform various

administrative tasks to set up a contract. The performance of those tasks

does not transfer a service to the customer as the tasks are performed.

Therefore, those setup activities are not a performance obligation.

Distinct goods or services

26. Depending on the contract, promised goods or services may include, but

are not limited to, the following:

(a) sale of goods produced by an entity (for example, inventory of a

manufacturer);

(b) resale of goods purchased by an entity (for example, merchandise of

a retailer);

a ticket resold by an entity acting as a principal, as described in

paragraphs B34–B38);

(d) performing a contractually agreed-upon task (or tasks) for a customer;

(e) providing a service of standing ready to provide goods or services (for

example, unspecified updates to software that are provided on a when-

and-if-available basis) or of making goods or services available for

a customer to use as and when the customer decides;

(f) providing a service of arranging for another party to transfer goods or

services to a customer (for example, acting as an agent of another party,

as described in paragraphs B34–B38);

(g) granting rights to goods or services to be provided in the future that

a customer can resell or provide to its customer (for example, an entity

selling a product to a retailer promises to transfer an additional good or

service to an individual who purchases the product from the retailer);

(h) constructing, manufacturing or developing an asset on behalf of

a customer;

(i) granting licences (see paragraphs B52–B63B); and

(j) granting options to purchase additional goods or services (when

those options provide a customer with a material right, as described

in paragraphs B39–B43).

In order for an entity to identify the promised goods or services in a contract,

IFRS 15.24 indicates that an entity considers whether there is a valid

expectation on the part of the customer that the entity will provide a good

or service. If the customer has a valid expectation that it will receive certain

goods or services, it is likely that the customer would view those promises as

part of the negotiated exchange. This expectation is most commonly created

91 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

from an entity’s explicit promises in a contract to transfer goods or services to

the customer.

However, in other cases, promises to provide goods or services might be

implied by the entity’s customary business practices or standard industry norms

(i.e., outside of the written contract). As discussed in section 3, the Board

clarified that, while the contract must be legally enforceable to be within the

scope of the revenue model, not all of the promises (explicit or implicit) have

to be legally enforceable to be considered when determining the entity’s

performance obligations.

108

That is, a performance obligation can be based on

a customer’s valid expectations (e.g., due to the entity’s business practice of

providing an additional good or service that is not specified in the contract).

In addition, some items commonly considered to be marketing incentives have

to be evaluated under IFRS 15 to determine whether they represent promised

goods or services in the contract. Such items may include ‘free’ handsets

provided by telecommunication entities, ‘free’ maintenance provided by

automotive manufacturers and customer loyalty points awarded by

supermarkets, airlines and hotels.

109

Although an entity may not consider those

goods or services to be the ‘main’ items that the customer contracts to receive,

the Board concluded that they are goods or services for which the customer

pays and to which the entity would allocate consideration for the purpose of

recognising revenue.

110

IFRS 15.25 states that promised goods or services do

not

include activities that

an entity must undertake to fulfil a contract unless those activities transfer

control of a good or service to a customer. For example, internal administrative

activities that an entity must perform to satisfy its obligation to deliver the

promised goods or services, but do not transfer control of a good or service

to a customer, would not be promised goods or services. The IFRS IC reiterated

this point during its January 2019 meeting (see below for further discussion).

An entity may have to apply judgement when determining whether an activity

it will perform is a promised good or service that will be transferred to a

customer. The following questions may be relevant for an entity to consider

when making this judgement:

•

Is the activity identified as a good or service to be provided in the

contractual arrangement with the customer? Activities that are not

specifically identified could relate to an internal process of the entity,

but they could also relate to implicit promises to the customer.

•

Does the activity relate to the entity establishing processes and procedures

or training its employees, so that it can render the contracted goods or

services to the customer (e.g., set-up activities)?

•

Is the activity administrative in nature (e.g., tasks performed to determine

whether to accept or reject a customer, establishing the customer’s

account, invoicing the customer)?

•

Is the customer aware of when the activity will be performed?

IFRS 15.26 provides examples of promised goods or services that may be

included in a contract with a customer. Several of them were considered

deliverables under legacy IFRS, including a good produced by an entity or

a contractually agreed-upon task (or service) performed for a customer.

However, the IASB also included other examples that may not have been

considered deliverables in the past. For example, IFRS 15.26(e) describes a

108

IFRS 15.BC32, BC87.

109

IFRS 15.BC88.

110

IFRS 15.BC89.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 92

stand-ready obligation as a promised service that consists of standing ready to

provide goods or services or making goods or services available for a customer

to use as and when it decides to use it. That is, a stand-ready obligation is

the promise that the customer has access to a good or service, rather than

a promise to transfer the underlying good or service itself. Stand-ready

obligations are common in the software industry (e.g., unspecified updates

to software on a when-and-if-available basis) and may be present in other

industries. See Questions 4-2 and 4-3 below for further discussion on stand-

ready obligations.

IFRS 15.26(g) notes that a promise to a customer may include granting rights to

goods or services to be provided in the future that the customer can resell

or provide to its own customers. Such a right may represent promises to the

customer if it existed at the time that the parties agreed to the contract. As

noted in the Basis for Conclusions, the Board thought it was important to clarify

that a performance obligation may exist for a promise to provide a good or service

in the future (e.g., when an entity makes a promise to provide goods or services

to its customer’s customer).

111

These types of promises exist in distribution

networks in various industries and are common in the automotive industry.

After identifying the promised goods or services in the contract, an entity then

determines which of these promised goods or services (or bundle of goods or

services) represent separate performance obligations. The standard includes

the following example to illustrate how an entity would identify the promised

goods or services in a contract (including both explicit and implicit promises).

The example also evaluates whether the identified promises are performance

obligations, which we discuss in section 4.2:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 12 — Explicit and implicit promises in a contract (IFRS 15.IE59-

IE65A)

An entity, a manufacturer, sells a product to a distributor (ie its customer)

who will then resell it to an end customer.

Case A—Explicit promise of service

In the contract with the distributor, the entity promises to provide

maintenance services for no additional consideration (ie ‘free’) to any

party (ie the end customer) that purchases the product from the distributor.

The entity outsources the performance of the maintenance services to

the distributor and pays the distributor an agreed-upon amount for providing

those services on the entity’s behalf. If the end customer does not use the

maintenance services, the entity is not obliged to pay the distributor.

The contract with the customer includes two promised goods or services –

(a) the product and (b) the maintenance services. The promise of

maintenance services is a promise to transfer goods or services in the future

and is part of the negotiated exchange between the entity and the distributor.

The entity assesses whether each good or service is distinct in accordance

with paragraph 27 of IFRS 15. The entity determines that both the product

and the maintenance services meet the criterion in paragraph 27(a) of

IFRS 15. The entity regularly sells the product on a stand-alone basis, which

indicates that the customer can benefit from the product on its own. The

customer can benefit from the maintenance services together with a resource

the customer already has obtained from the entity (ie the product).

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IFRS 15.BC92.

93 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

The entity further determines that its promises to transfer the product and to

provide the maintenance services are separately identifiable (in accordance

with paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15) on the basis of the principle and the factors

in paragraph 29 of IFRS 15. The product and the maintenance services are

not inputs to a combined item in the contract. The entity is not providing a

significant integration service because the presence of the product and the

services together in this contract do not result in any additional or combined

functionality. In addition, neither the product nor the services modify or

customise the other. Lastly, the product and the maintenance services are

not highly interdependent or highly interrelated because the entity would be

able to fulfil each of the promises in the contract independently of its efforts

to fulfil the other (ie the entity would be able to transfer the product even

if the customer declined maintenance services and would be able to provide

maintenance services in relation to products sold previously through

other distributors). The entity also observes, in applying the principle in

paragraph 29 of IFRS 15, that the entity’s promise to provide maintenance

is not necessary for the product to continue to provide significant benefit to

the customer. Consequently, the entity allocates a portion of the transaction

price to each of the two performance obligations (ie the product and the

maintenance services) in the contract.

Case B—Implicit promise of service

The entity has historically provided maintenance services for no additional

consideration (ie ‘free’) to end customers that purchase the entity’s product

from the distributor. The entity does not explicitly promise maintenance

services during negotiations with the distributor and the final contract

between the entity and the distributor does not specify terms or conditions

for those services.

However, on the basis of its customary business practice, the entity

determines at contract inception that it has made an implicit promise to

provide maintenance services as part of the negotiated exchange with the

distributor. That is, the entity’s past practices of providing these services

create valid expectations of the entity’s customers (ie the distributor and

end customers) in accordance with paragraph 24 of IFRS 15. Consequently,

the entity assesses whether the promise of maintenance services is a

performance obligation. For the same reasons as in Case A, the entity

determines that the product and maintenance services are separate

performance obligations.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 94

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

Case C—Services are not a promised service

In the contract with the distributor, the entity does not promise to provide

any maintenance services. In addition, the entity typically does not provide

maintenance services and, therefore, the entity’s customary business

practices, published policies and specific statements at the time of entering

into the contract have not created an implicit promise to provide goods or

services to its customers. The entity transfers control of the product to the

distributor and, therefore, the contract is completed. However, before the

sale to the end customer, the entity makes an offer to provide maintenance

services to any party that purchases the product from the distributor for no

additional promised consideration.

The promise of maintenance is not included in the contract between the

entity and the distributor at contract inception. That is, in accordance

with paragraph 24 of IFRS 15, the entity does not explicitly or implicitly

promise to provide maintenance services to the distributor or the end

customers. Consequently, the entity does not identify the promise to provide

maintenance services as a performance obligation. Instead, the obligation

to provide maintenance services is accounted for in accordance with

IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets.

Although the maintenance services are not a promised service in the current

contract, in future contracts with customers the entity would assess whether

it has created a business practice resulting in an implied promise to provide

maintenance services.

January 2019 IFRS IC discussion

In 2018, the IFRS IC received a request regarding the recognition of revenue by

a stock exchange that provides listing services to customers. The request asked

whether the stock exchange is providing an admission service that is distinct

from an ongoing listing service. At its January 2019 meeting, the IFRS IC

concluded that the principles and requirements in IFRS 15 provide sufficient

guidance for an entity to assess the promised goods and services in a contract

with a customer. Consequently, the IFRS IC decided not to add this matter to its

agenda.

112

In considering this request, the IFRS IC noted that the main question relates to

the assessment of the promised goods or services in the contract, rather than

the assessment of whether the admission and the listing service are ‘distinct’

based on IFRS 15.27-30. In their agenda decision, the IFRS IC highlighted that:

•

Before identifying its performance obligations, an entity needs to identify

the goods and services promised in the contract.

113

•

Performing various tasks (e.g., set-up activities) that do not transfer a good

or service to a customer is not a performance obligation – a performance

obligation does not include activities that an entity must undertake to fulfil a

contract, unless those activities transfer a good or service to a customer.

114

•

If a non-refundable upfront fee relates to an activity that is undertaken at or

near contract inception to fulfil the contract, but does not result in transfer

of a promised good or service to a customer (i.e., the activities only

112

IFRS 15.BC87; IFRIC Update, January 2019, available on the IASB's website.

113

IFRS 15.24; IFRIC Update, January 2019, available on the IASB's website.

114

IFRS 15.25; IFRIC Update, January 2019, available on the IASB's website.

95 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

represent tasks to set up a contract), the fee is an advance payment for

future goods or services.

115

The IFRS IC discussed what the promised goods and services are in the contract

using the following example.

116

Example of Identification of promised good or service in a contract by a

stock exchange that provides listing service to a customer

A stock exchange entity provides its customers with access to the capital

markets by admitting them for listing in the stock exchange. The entity

charges its customers a non-refundable upfront admission fee and an

ongoing listing fee. The non-refundable upfront fee relates to various

activities that are undertaken by the entity at or near contract inception to

enable admission to the exchange, including:

• Performing due diligence for new applications

• Reviewing the customer’s listing application forms, including determining

whether the application should be accepted

• Issuing tickers and reference numbers for the new security

• Processing of the listing on, and admission to, the exchange

• Publishing the security on the order book

• Issuing the dealing notice on the applicable admission date

Once the customer has been admitted, the entity provides ongoing market

access and maintains the listing. The listing service transferred to the

customer is the same on initial listing and on all subsequent days for which

the customer remains listed.

As part of identifying the goods and services promised to the customer in the

contract, the stock exchange considers whether the above activities

undertaken at or near contract inception transfer a service to the customer

as the activities are performed. This assessment depends on the facts and

circumstances of the contract.

In this fact pattern, the IFRS IC concluded that, while the activities

undertaken at or near contract inception are required to fulfil the contract

with the customer (which promises to provide the customer with the service

of being listed on the exchange), it is likely that the stock exchange would

conclude that the activities do not transfer separate services to the customer

as they are performed. Accordingly, they are not promised goods or services

to be identified under Step 2 of the model.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

Legacy IFRS did not specifically address contracts with multiple deliverables,

focusing instead on identifying the transaction. This included identifying

separate elements so as to reflect the substance of the transaction.

117

a result, many IFRS preparers looked to legacy US GAAP for guidance in this

area. Legacy US GAAP required entities to identify the ’deliverables’ within

an arrangement, but did not define that term. In contrast, IFRS 15 indicates

the types of items that may be goods or services promised in the contract.

115

IFRS 15.B49; IFRIC Update, January 2019, available on the IASB's website.

116

IFRS IC Agenda paper 3, January 2019, Assessment of promised goods or services

(IFRS 15), available on the IASB's website; IFRS IC Agenda paper 2, September 2018,

Assessment of promised goods or services (IFRS 15) available on the IASB's website; and

IFRIC Update January 2019, available on the IASB's website.

117

IAS 18.13.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 96

How we see it

Entities may need to use judgement to identify promised goods or services in

a contract. For example, some ‘free’ goods or services that may seem like

marketing incentives have to be evaluated under the standard to determine

whether they represent promised goods or services in a contract. In

addition, the standard makes clear that certain activities are not promised

goods or services, such as activities that an entity must perform to satisfy its

obligation to deliver the promised goods or services (e.g., internal

administrative activities).

FASB differences

The FASB’s standard allows entities to elect to account for shipping

and handling activities performed after the control of a good has been

transferred to the customer as a fulfilment cost (i.e., an expense). Without

such an accounting policy choice, a US GAAP entity that has shipping

arrangements after the customer has obtained control may determine

that the act of shipping is a performance obligation under the standard. If

that were the case, the entity would be required to allocate a portion of

the transaction price to the shipping service and recognise it when (or as)

the shipping occurs.

The IASB has not permitted a similar policy choice in IFRS 15. In the Basis

for Conclusions, the IASB noted that IFRS 15.22 requires an entity to assess

the goods or services promised in a contract with a customer in order to

identify performance obligations. Such a policy choice would override that

requirement. Furthermore, a policy choice is applicable to all entities and

it is possible that entities with significant shipping operations may make

different policy choices. Therefore, it could also reduce comparability

between entities, including those within the same industry.

118

Since the

FASB’s standard includes a policy choice that IFRS 15 does not, it is possible

that diversity between IFRS and US GAAP entities may arise in practice.

Another difference is that FASB uses different language in relation to implied

contractual terms and whether those implied terms represent a promised

good or service to a customer. IFRS 15 states that promised goods

or services are not limited to explicit promises in a contract, but could

be created by a ‘valid expectation of the customer’. ASC 606 refers to a

‘reasonable expectation of the customer’. The FASB used this language in

order to avoid confusion with the term ‘valid expectation’ because ASC 606

states that promises to provide goods or services do not need to be legally

enforceable (although the overall arrangement needs to be enforceable).

The use of the term ‘valid’ in IFRS 15 is consistent with the requirements

for constructive obligations in IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities

and Contingent Assets. While the terms used in IFRS 15 and ASC 606 are

different, we do not expect this to result in a difference in practice.

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97 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

4.1.1 Identifying promised goods or services that are not identified as

deliverables under legacy revenue requirements (updated October 2018)

Following the issuance of IFRS 15, stakeholders questioned whether they had to

identify promised goods or services under the standard that they had not

identified as deliverables under legacy revenue requirements. The question had

been raised, in part, because the Board said in the Basis for Conclusions that it

intentionally “decided not to exempt an entity from accounting for performance

obligations that the entity might regard as being perfunctory or

inconsequential. Instead, an entity should assess whether those performance

obligations are immaterial to its financial statements”.

119

In January 2015, the TRG members discussed this issue and generally agreed

that the standard is not intended to require the identification of promised goods

or services that were not accounted for as deliverables in the past. At the same

time, entities may not disregard items that they deem to be perfunctory or

inconsequential and need to consider whether ‘free’ goods or services represent

promises to a customer. For example, telecommunications entities may have to

allocate consideration to the ‘free’ handsets that they provide. Likewise,

automobile manufacturers may have to allocate consideration to ‘free’

maintenance that may have been considered a marketing incentive in the past.

However, entities would consider materiality in determining whether items are

promised goods or services.

The Board subsequently considered the TRG members’ discussion and agreed

that it does not expect entities to identify significantly more performance

obligations under IFRS 15 than the deliverables that were identified under

legacy IFRS.

FASB differences

The FASB’s standard allows entities to disregard promises that are deemed

to be immaterial in the context of a contract. That is, ASC 606 permits

entities to disregard items that are immaterial at the contract level and does

not require that the items be aggregated and assessed for materiality at

the entity level. However, ASC 606 also emphasises that entities still need

to evaluate whether customer options for additional goods or services are

material rights to be accounted for in accordance with the related

requirements (see section 4.6 below).

IFRS 15 does not include explicit language to indicate an entity can disregard

promised goods or services that are immaterial in the context of the

contract. However, in the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB noted that it did

not intend for entities to identify every possible promised good or services

in a contract and that entities should consider materiality and the overall

objective of IFRS 15 when assessing promised goods or services and

identifying performance obligations.

120

The IASB also noted that revenue standards under legacy IFRS did not

contain similar language to the guidance that was issued by the staff of

the US SEC on inconsequential or perfunctory performance obligations

under legacy US GAAP.

121

The TRG’s discussion highlighted that the

concerns raised about identifying performance obligations that are not

identified as deliverables under legacy requirements primarily relate to

potential changes in practice under US GAAP when comparing the legacy

US SEC guidance to ASC 606.

122

119

IFRS 15.BC90.

120

IFRS 15.BC116D.

121

IFRS 15.BC116E.

122

IFRS 15.BC116C.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 98

Frequently asked questions

Question 4-1: How would an entity assess whether pre-production activities

are a promised good or service? [TRG meeting 9 November 2015 – Agenda

paper no. 46]

Manufacturing and production entities in various industries had asked the

TRG how they should account for activities and costs incurred prior to the

production of goods under a long-term supply arrangement when they adopt

IFRS 15. The questions arose because some long-term supply arrangements

require an entity to incur upfront engineering and design costs to create new

technology or adapt existing technology to the needs of the customer.

These pre-production activities are often a prerequisite to delivering any units

under a production contract. For example, a manufacturer may incur costs to

perform certain services related to the design and development of products

it will sell under long-term supply arrangements. It may also incur costs to

design and develop moulds, dies and other tools that will be used to produce

those products. A contract may require the customer to reimburse the

manufacturer for these costs. Alternatively, reimbursement may be implicitly

guaranteed as part of the price of the product or by other means.

TRG members generally agreed that the determination of whether pre-

production activities are a promised good or service or fulfilment activities

requires judgement and consideration of the facts and circumstances. When

making this evaluation, entities need to determine whether the activity

transfers a good or service to a customer. If an entity determines that these

activities are promised goods or services, it applies the requirements in

IFRS 15 to those goods or services.

TRG members generally agreed that, if an entity is having difficulty

determining whether a pre-production activity is a promised good or service

in a contract, the entity needs to consider whether control of that good or

service transfers to the customer. For example, if an entity is performing

engineering and development services as part of developing a new product

for a customer and the customer will own the resulting intellectual property

(e.g., patents), it is likely that the entity would conclude that it is transferring

control of the intellectual property and that the engineering and development

activities are a promised good or service in the contract.

TRG members noted that assessing whether control transfers in such

arrangements may be challenging. In some arrangements, legal title of the

good or service created from the pre-production activity is transferred to

the customer. However, TRG members generally agreed that an entity has to

consider all indicators of control transfer under IFRS 15 and that the transfer

of legal title is not a presumptive indicator.

If a pre-production activity is determined to be a promised good or service,

an entity allocates a portion of the transaction price to that good or service

(as a single performance obligation or as part of a combined performance

obligation that includes the pre-production activities along with other goods

or services). If the pre-production activities are included in a performance

obligation satisfied over time, they are considered when measuring progress

toward satisfaction of that performance obligation (see section 7.1.4).

99 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

If a pre-production activity does not result in the transfer of control of

a good or service to a customer, an entity should consider other

requirements that may be applicable (e.g., IAS 16, IAS 38, IFRS 15.95-98

on costs to fulfil a contract with a customer).

Question 4-2: What is the nature of the promise in a ‘typical’ stand-ready

obligation? [TRG meeting 26 January 2015 – Agenda paper no. 16]

At the January 2015 TRG meeting, members of the TRG discussed

numerous examples of stand-ready obligations and generally agreed that

the nature of the promise in a stand-ready obligation is the promise that

the customer will have access to a good or service, not the delivery of

the underlying good or service. The standard describes a stand-ready

obligation as a promised service that consists of standing ready to provide

goods or services or making goods or services available for a customer to

use as and when it decides to do so. Stand-ready obligations are common

in the software industry (e.g., unspecified updates to software on a when-

and-if-available basis) and may be present in other industries.

The TRG agenda paper included the following types of promises to a

customer that could be considered stand-ready obligations, depending

on the facts and circumstances:

• Obligations for which the delivery of the good, service or intellectual

property is within the control of the entity, but is still being developed

(e.g., a software entity’s promise to transfer unspecified software

upgrades at its discretion)

• Obligations for which the delivery of the underlying good or service

is outside the control of the entity and the customer (e.g., an entity’s

promise to remove snow from an airport runway in exchange for a fixed

fee for the year)

• Obligations for which the delivery of the underlying good or service is

within the control of the customer (e.g., an entity’s promise to provide

periodic maintenance on a when-and-if needed basis on a customer’s

equipment after a pre-established amount of usage by the customer)

• Obligations to make a good or service available to a customer

continuously (e.g., a gym membership that provides unlimited access

to a customer for a specified period of time)

An entity needs to carefully evaluate the facts and circumstances of its

contracts to appropriately identify whether the nature of a promise to

a customer is the delivery of the underlying good(s) or service(s) or

the service of standing ready to provide goods or services. Entities also

have to consider other promises in a contract that includes a stand-ready

obligation to appropriately identify the performance obligations in the

contract. TRG members generally agreed that all contracts with a stand-ready

element do not necessarily include a single performance obligation (refer to

Question 4-3 below).

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TRG Agenda paper no. 48, Customer options for additional goods and services, dated

9 November 2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 100

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

At the TRG meeting, a FASB staff member also indicated that the staff does

not believe that the FASB intended to change practice under US GAAP for

determining when software or technology transactions include specified

upgrade rights (i.e., a separate performance obligation) or unspecified

upgrade rights (i.e., a stand-ready obligation). For the TRG members’

discussion on measuring progress toward satisfaction for a stand-ready

obligation that is satisfied over time, see Question 7-13 in section 7.1.4.C.

Question 4-3: Do all contracts with a stand-ready element include a single

performance obligation that is satisfied over time? [TRG meeting

9 November 2015 – Agenda paper no. 48]

TRG members generally agreed that the stand-ready element in a contract

does not always represent a single performance obligation satisfied over

time. This conclusion is consistent with the discussion in Question 4-2 that,

when identifying the nature of a promise to a customer, an entity may

determine that a stand-ready element exists, but it is not the promised good

or service for revenue recognition purposes. Instead, the underlying goods or

services are the goods or services promised to the customer and accounted

for by the entity.

Consider the following example in the TRG agenda paper:

Example of determining the nature of the promise in a contract with

a stand-ready element

An entity is required to stand ready to produce a part for a customer

under an MSA. The customer is not obliged to purchase any parts (i.e.,

there is no minimum guaranteed volume). However, it is highly likely the

customer will purchase parts because the part is required to manufacture

the customer’s product and it is not practical for the customer to buy parts

from multiple suppliers. TRG members generally agreed that the nature of

the promise in this example is the delivery of the parts, rather than a

service of standing ready. When the customer submits a purchase order

under the master supply arrangement, it is contracting for a specific

number of distinct goods and the purchase order creates new

performance obligations for the entity. However, if the entity determined

that the nature of the promise is a service of standing ready, the contract

would be accounted for as a single performance obligation satisfied over

time. In that situation, the entity may be required to estimate the number

of purchases to be made throughout the contract term (i.e., make an

estimate of variable consideration and apply the constraint

on variable consideration) and continually update the transaction price

and its allocation among the transferred goods or services.

The TRG agenda paper also noted that, in this example, the entity is not

obliged to transfer any parts until the customer submits a purchase order

(i.e., the customer makes a separate purchasing decision). This contrasts

with a stand-ready obligation, which requires the entity to make a

promised service available to the customer and does not require the

customer to make any additional purchasing decisions.

See Question 4-13 in section 4.6 for further discussion on determining

whether a contract involving variable quantities of goods or services should

be accounted for as variable consideration (i.e., if the nature of the promise is

to transfer one overall service to the customer, such as a stand-ready

obligation) or a contract containing customer options (i.e., if the nature of the

promise is to transfer the underlying distinct goods or services).

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4.2 Determining when promises are performance obligations

(updated October 2018)

After identifying the promised goods or services within a contract, an entity

determines which of those goods or services will be treated as separate

performance obligations. That is, the entity identifies the individual units

of account. Promised goods or services represent separate performance

obligations if the goods or services are distinct (by themselves, or as part of

a bundle of goods or services) (see section 4.2.1) or if the goods or services

are part of a series of distinct goods or services that are substantially the same

and have the same pattern of transfer to the customer (see section 4.2.2).

If a promised good or service is not distinct, an entity is required to combine

that good or service with other promised goods or services until it identifies

a bundle of goods or services that, together, is distinct. An entity is required

to account for all the goods or services promised in a contract as a single

performance obligation if the entire bundle of promised goods or services is

the only performance obligation identified. See section 4.3 for further

discussion. The following flow chart illustrates these requirements:

Promised good or service is a

performance obligation (i.e., separate

unit of account) (see section 4.2.1).

Consider whether series requirement

applies (see section 4.2.2).

Is the promised good or service capable

of being distinct (see section 4.2.1.A)?

Is the promised good or service distinct

in the context of the contract (see

section 4.2.1.B)?

Yes

Combine with other promised

goods or services until distinct

bundle exists (see section 4.3).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 102

A single performance obligation may include a licence of intellectual property

and other promised goods or services. IFRS 15 identifies two examples of

licences of intellectual property that are not distinct from other promised goods

or services in a contract: (1) a licence that is a component of a tangible good

and that is integral to the functionality of the tangible good; and (2) a licence

that the customer can benefit from only in conjunction with a related service

(e.g., an online hosting service that enables a customer to access the content

provided by the licence of intellectual property).

124

See section 8.1.2 for

further discussion on these two examples.

The standard also specifies that the following items are performance obligations:

•

Customer options for additional goods or services that provide material

rights to customers (see IFRS 15.B40 in section 4.6)

•

Service-type warranties (see IFRS 15.B28-B33 in section 9.1)

Entities do not apply the general model to determine whether these goods or

services are performance obligations because the Board deemed them to be

performance obligations if they are identified as promises in a contract.

4.2.1 Determination of ‘distinct’

IFRS 15 outlines a two-step process for determining whether a promised good

or service (or a bundle of goods or services) is distinct:

•

Consideration at the level of the individual good or service of whether

the customer can benefit from the good or service on its own or with other

readily available resources (i.e., the good or service is capable of being

distinct)

•

Consideration of whether the good or service is separately identifiable

from other promises in the contract (i.e., the promise to transfer the good

or service is distinct within the context of the contract)

Both of these criteria must be met to conclude that the good or service is

distinct. If these criteria are met, the individual good or service must be

accounted for as a separate unit of account (i.e., a performance obligation).

The Board concluded that both steps are important in determining whether

a promised good or service should be accounted for separately. The first criterion

(i.e., capable of being distinct) establishes the minimum characteristics for a good

or service to be accounted for separately. However, even if the individual goods

or services promised in a contract may be capable of being distinct, it may not

be appropriate to account for each of them separately because doing so would

not result in a faithful depiction of the entity’s performance in that contract or

appropriately represent the nature of an entity’s promise to the customer.

125

Therefore, an entity also needs to consider the interrelationship of those goods

or services to apply the second criterion (i.e., distinct within the context

of the contract) and determine the performance obligations within a contract.

IFRS IC received a request about the identification of performance obligations

in a contract for the sale of a real estate unit that includes the transfer of land,

which is discussed below in section 4.2.1.B.

124

IFRS 15.B54.

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IFRS 15.BC102.

103 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

4.2.1.A Capable of being distinct

The first criterion requires that a promised good or service must be capable

of being distinct by providing a benefit to the customer either on its own or

together with other resources that are readily available to the customer.

The standard provides the following requirements on how to determine whether

a promised good or service is capable of being distinct:

Extract from IFRS 15

28. A customer can benefit from a good or service in accordance with

paragraph 27(a) if the good or service could be used, consumed, sold for

an amount that is greater than scrap value or otherwise held in a way that

generates economic benefits. For some goods or services, a customer may

be able to benefit from a good or service on its own. For other goods or

services, a customer may be able to benefit from the good or service only

in conjunction with other readily available resources. A readily available

resource is a good or service that is sold separately (by the entity or another

entity) or a resource that the customer has already obtained from the entity

(including goods or services that the entity will have already transferred

to the customer under the contract) or from other transactions or events.

Various factors may provide evidence that the customer can benefit from

a good or service either on its own or in conjunction with other readily

available resources. For example, the fact that the entity regularly sells

a good or service separately would indicate that a customer can benefit from

the good or service on its own or with other readily available resources.

Determining whether a good or service is capable of being distinct is

straightforward in many situations. For example, if an entity regularly sells

a good or service separately, this fact would demonstrate that the good or

service provides benefit to a customer on its own or with other readily available

resources.

The evaluation may require more judgement in other situations, particularly

when the good or service can only provide benefit to the customer with readily

available resources provided by other entities. These are resources that meet

either of the following conditions:

• They are sold separately by the entity (or another entity).

• The customer has already obtained them from the entity (including goods

or services that the entity has already transferred to the customer under

the contract) or from other transactions or events.

As noted in the Basis for Conclusions, the assessment of whether the customer

can benefit from the goods or services (either on its own or with other readily

available resources) is based on the characteristics of the goods or services

themselves, instead of how the customer might use the goods or services.

126

Consistent with this notion, an entity disregards any contractual limitations

that may prevent the customer from obtaining readily available resources from

a party other than the entity when making this assessment (as illustrated below

in Example 11, Case D, extracted in section 4.2.3). IFRS IC also reiterated this

point during its March 2018 meeting (see section 4.2.1.B for further

discussion).

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IFRS 15.BC100.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 104

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board explained that “the attributes of being

distinct are comparable to the previous revenue recognition requirements for

identifying separate deliverables in a multiple-element arrangements, which

specified that a delivered item must have ‘value to the customer on a stand-

alone basis’ for an entity to account for that item separately.” However, the

Board did not use similar terminology in IFRS 15 so as to avoid implying that

an entity must assess a customer’s intended use for a promised good or service

when it is identifying performance obligations. It observed that it would be

difficult, if not impossible, for an entity to know a customer’s intent.

127

4.2.1.B Distinct within the context of the contract (updated September 2019)

Once an entity has determined whether a promised good or service is capable of

being distinct based on the individual characteristics of the promise, the entity

considers the second criterion of whether the good or service is separately

identifiable from other promises in the contract (i.e., whether the promise to

transfer the good or service is distinct within the context of the contract).

The standard provides the following requirements for making this

determination:

Extract from IFRS 15

29. In assessing whether an entity’s promises to transfer goods or services to

the customer are separately identifiable in accordance with paragraph 27(b),

the objective is to determine whether the nature of the promise, within

the context of the contract, is to transfer each of those goods or services

individually or, instead, to transfer a combined item or items to which the

promised goods or services are inputs. Factors that indicate that two or

more promises to transfer goods or services to a customer are not separately

identifiable include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) the entity provides a significant service of integrating the goods or

services with other goods or services promised in the contract into

a bundle of goods or services that represent the combined output or

outputs for which the customer has contracted. In other words, the

entity is using the goods or services as inputs to produce or deliver

the combined output or outputs specified by the customer. A combined

output or outputs might include more than one phase, element or unit.

(b) one or more of the goods or services significantly modifies or customises,

or are significantly modified or customised by, one or more of the other

goods or services promised in the contract.

other words, each of the goods or services is significantly affected by

one or more of the other goods or services in the contract. For example,

in some cases, two or more goods or services are significantly affected

by each other because the entity would not be able to fulfil its promise by

transferring each of the goods or services independently.

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IFRS 15.BC101.

105 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The following illustration depicts the above requirements:

Separately identifiable principle

To determine whether promised goods or services are separately identifiable

(i.e., whether a promise to transfer a good or service is distinct within the

context of the contract), an entity needs to evaluate whether its promise is

to transfer each good or service individually or a combined item (or items) that

comprises the individual goods or services promised in the contract. Therefore,

an entity would evaluate whether the promised goods or services in the

contract are outputs or they are inputs to a combined item (or items). In the

Basis for Conclusions, the Board noted that, in many cases, a combined item (or

items) is more than (or substantially different from) the sum of the underlying

promised goods or services.

128

The evaluation of whether an entity’s promise is separately identifiable

considers the relationship between the various goods or services in the context

of the process to fulfil the contract. Therefore, an entity considers the level of

integration, interrelation or interdependence among the promises to transfer

goods or services. In the Basis for Conclusion, the Board observed that, rather

than considering whether one item, by its nature, depends on the other

(i.e., whether two items have a functional relationship), an entity evaluates

whether there is a transformative relationship between the two or more items

in the process of fulfilling the contract.

129

The point was also reiterated by

the IFRS IC during its March 2018 meeting (see the discussion below).

The Board also emphasised that the separately identifiable principle is applied

within the context of the bundle of promised goods or services in the contract.

It is not within the context of each individual promised good or service. That

is, the separately identifiable principle is intended to identify when an entity’s

performance in transferring a bundle of goods or services in a contract is

fulfilling a single promise to a customer. Therefore, to apply the ‘separately

identifiable’ principle, an entity evaluates whether two or more promised goods

or services significantly affect each other in the contract (and are, therefore,

highly interdependent or highly interrelated).

130

As an example of this evaluation, the IASB discussed in the Basis for

Conclusions a typical construction contract that involves transferring to

the customer many goods or services that are capable of being distinct

(e.g., various building materials, labour, project management services). In

this example, the IASB concluded that identifying all of the individual goods or

services as separate performance obligations would be impractical and would

128

IFRS 15.BC116J.

129

IFRS 15.BC116K.

130

IFRS 15.BC116L.

Is the good or service distinct in the context of the contract?

Does the entity provide

a significant service of

integrating goods or

services with other

goods or services in the

contract?

Do one or more goods or

services significantly

modify or customise

other goods or services

in the contract?

Are the goods or services

in the contract highly

interdependent or highly

interrelated?

Evaluate whether the good or service is separately identifiable from other

promises in the contract. Factors to consider include:

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 106

not faithfully represent the nature of the entity’s promise to the customer. That

is, the entity would recognise revenue when the materials and other inputs

to the construction process are provided rather than when it performs (and

uses those inputs) in the construction of the item the customer has contracted

to receive (e.g., a building, a house). As such, when determining whether a

promised good or service is distinct, an entity not only determines whether

the good or service is capable of being distinct but also whether the promise

to transfer the good or service is distinct within the context of the contract.

131

IFRS 15.29 includes three factors (discussed individually below) that are

intended to help entities identify when the promises in a bundle of promised

goods or services are not separately identifiable and, therefore, need to be

combined into a single performance obligation. In the Basis for Conclusions,

the IASB noted that these three factors are not an exhaustive list and that not

all of the factors need to exist in order to conclude that the entity’s promises

to transfer goods or services are not separately identifiable. As emphasised by

the IFRS IC during its March 2018 meeting (see the discussion below), the three

factors also are not intended to be criteria that are evaluated independently of

the separately identifiable principle. Given the wide variety of arrangements

that are within the scope of IFRS 15, the Board expects that there are some

instances in which the factors are less relevant to the evaluation of the

separately identifiable principle.

132

Entities may need to apply significant

judgement to evaluate whether a promised good or service is separately

identifiable. The evaluation requires a thorough understanding of the facts and

circumstances present in each contract. An entity should consider the following

questions, which summarise what is discussed in the Basis for Conclusions:

133

•

Is the combined item greater than, or substantively different from, the sum

of the promised goods or services?

•

Is an entity, in substance, fulfilling a single promise to the customer?

•

Is the risk an entity assumes to fulfil its obligation to transfer a promised

good or service inseparable from the risk relating to the transfer of the

other promised goods or services in the bundle?

•

Do two or more promised goods or services each significantly affect the

other?

•

Does each promised good or service significantly affect the other promised

good or service’s utility to the customer?

Significant integration service

The first factor (included in IFRS 15.29(a)) is the presence of a significant

integration service. The IASB determined that, when an entity provides

a significant service of integrating a good or service with other goods or

services in a contract, the bundle of integrated goods or services represents

a combined output or outputs. In other words, when an entity provides

a significant integration service, the risk of transferring individual goods

or services is inseparable from the bundle of integrated goods or services

because a substantial part of an entity’s promise to the customer is to make

sure the individual goods or services are incorporated into the combined output

or outputs.

134

When evaluating this factor, entities need to consider whether

they are providing a significant integration service that effectively

transforms

the individual promised goods or services (the inputs) into a combined

output(s), as discussed in Example 11, Case E (included in section 4.2.3 below).

131

IFRS 15.BC102.

132

IFRS 15.BC116N.

133

IFRS 15.BC116J-BC116L.

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IFRS 15.BC107.

107 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

This is consistent with the notion discussed above that a combined item (or

items) would be greater than (or substantially different from) the sum of

the underlying promised goods or services.

This factor applies even if there is more than one output. Furthermore, as

described in the standard, a combined output or outputs may include more

than one phase, element or unit.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB noted that this factor may be relevant

in many construction contracts in which a contractor provides an integration

(or contract management) service to manage and coordinate the various

construction tasks and to assume the risks associated with the integration of

those tasks. An integration service provided by the contractor often includes

coordinating the activities performed by any subcontractors and making sure

the quality of the work performed is in compliance with contract specifications

and that the individual goods or services are appropriately integrated into

the combined item that the customer has contracted to receive.

135

This type

of construction contract and the analysis of whether it contains a significant

integration service is illustrated in Example 10, Case A (included in

section 4.2.3 below) and in the illustration below.

Illustration 4-1 — Significant integration service

Contractor Q, a construction firm, enters into a contract with a customer to

design and construct a concert hall. The project has two phases, design and

construction and the contract provides separate compensation for each

phase.

For purposes of this example, assume that the individual goods and services

provided in each phase are capable of being distinct. Contractor Q must then

determine whether each of the individual goods and services in each phase

are distinct in the context of the contract. Contractor Q provides a significant

service of: (1) integrating the various design services to produce project

plans in the design phase; and (2) integrating the various materials and

construction services to build the concert hall in the construction phase.

Contractor Q then evaluates whether the aggregated goods and services in

the design phase (i.e., project plans) and aggregated goods and services in

the construction phase (i.e., concert hall) are distinct in the context of the

contract and, therefore, are two performance obligations or whether

together they represent a single performance obligation.

In this illustration, the design and construction of a concert hall is necessary

to satisfy Contractor Q’s contract with the customer. Given the complex

nature of the project, assume Contractor Q will be required to frequently

alter the design of the concert hall during construction and to continually

assess the propriety of the materials to be used. These changes may cause

Contractor Q to rework the construction of the concert hall. Contractor Q

determines it is providing a significant service of integrating goods and

services into the combined output for which the customer has contracted

(i.e., a completed concert hall). Contractor Q concludes that the design

services and construction services are not distinct in the context of the

contract and instead should be combined and accounted for as one

performance obligation.

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IFRS 15.BC107.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 108

The Board observed that this factor could apply to other industries as well.

136

a speech,

a member of the SEC staff described a consultation with the Office of

the Chief Accountant (OCA) in which an entity concluded that it was providing a

significant integration service that transformed equipment (e.g., cameras,

sensors) and monitoring services into a combined output (i.e., a ‘smart’ security

solution) that provided its customers with an overall service offering that was

greater than the customer could receive from each individual promise. In this

consultation, OCA did not object to the entity’s conclusion that its promises

comprised a single performance obligation.

137

Significant modification or customisation

The second factor in IFRS 15.29(b) is the presence of significant modification

or customisation. In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB explained that in some

industries, the notion of inseparable risks is more clearly illustrated by assessing

whether one good or service significantly modifies or customises another. This

is because if a good or service modifies or customises another good or service

in a contract, each good or service is being assembled together (as an input) to

produce a combined output.

138

In the Basis for Conclusions on IFRS 15, the Board provided the following

example:

139

Example of significant customisation service

Assume that an entity promises to provide a customer with software that it

will significantly customise to make the software function with the customer’s

existing infrastructure. Based on the facts and circumstances, the entity

determines that it is providing the customer with a fully integrated system

and that the customisation service requires it to significantly modify

the software in such a way that the risks of providing it and the customisation

service are inseparable (i.e., the software and customisation service are not

separately identifiable).

The

significance

of modification or customisation services can affect an entity’s

conclusion about the number of identified performance obligations for similar

fact patterns. Consider Example 11, Case A, and Example 11, Case B, in the

standard (included in section 4.2.3 below). In Case A, each of the promised

goods or services are determined to be distinct because the installation services

being provided to the customer do not significantly modify the software.

In Case B, two of the promised goods or services are combined into one

performance obligation because one promise (the installation) significantly

customises another promise (the software).

136

IFRS 15.BC108.

137

Remarks by Sheri L. York, Professional Accounting Fellow, SEC Office of the Chief

Accountant, 10 December 2018. Refer to the SEC website.

138

IFRS 15.BC109.

139

IFRS 15.BC110.

109 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Highly interdependent or highly interrelated

The third factor in IFRS 15.29(c) is whether the promised goods or services are

highly interdependent or highly interrelated. This is often the most difficult

distinct factor for entities to assess and it is expected to be an area of focus

for entities and their stakeholders. Promised goods or services are highly

interdependent or highly interrelated if each of the promised goods or services

is significantly affected by one or more of the other goods or services in the

contract. As discussed above, the Board clarified that an entity would evaluate

how two or more promised goods or services affect each other and not just

evaluate whether one item, by its nature, depends on the other. That is,

an entity needs to evaluate whether there is a

significant

two-way dependency

or transformative relationship between the promised goods or services to

determine whether the promises are highly interdependent or highly

interrelated. Determining whether a two-way dependency is significant such that

the promises are highly interdependent or highly interrelated with each other is a

judgement that requires careful consideration.

In the Basis for Conclusions on IFRS 15, the Board provided the following

example.

140

Example of highly interdependent and highly interrelated

An entity promises to design an experimental new product for a customer

and to manufacture ten prototype units of that product. Because the product

and manufacturing process is unproven, the entity is required to continue to

revise the design of the product during the construction and test of the

prototypes and make any necessary modifications to in-progress or

completed prototypes. The entity expects that most, or all, of the units to be

produced will require some rework because of design changes made during

the production process. That is, the customer is not likely to be able to

choose whether to purchase only the design service or the manufacturing

service without one significantly affecting the other. The entity determines

that the design and manufacturing promises are highly interdependent on,

and highly interrelated with, the other promises in the contract.

Consequently, although each promise may provide a benefit on its own, the

promises are not separately identifiable within the context of the contract.

Conversely, if the design was similar to that of a previous product and/or the

entity did not expect to have to rework the prototypes due to design changes,

the entity might determine that the two promises are not highly

interdependent or highly interrelated and might conclude the contract

contains multiple performance obligations.

Goods or services may not be separately identifiable if they are so highly

interdependent, on or highly interrelated with, other goods or services under

the contract. This may occur when the customer’s decision not to purchase one

promised good or service would significantly affect the other promised goods

or services. In other words, the promised goods or services are so highly

interrelated or highly interdependent with each other that the entity could

not fulfil an individual promise independently from the other promises in the

contract.

One aspect on which this evaluation should focus is the specific utility that can

only be delivered through the combination of the goods or services. That is, it is

important to establish that the utility each good or service can provide on its

own is significantly less than the utility of the combined goods or services.

Often, gaining sufficient understanding of the specific utility of the individual

goods or services, as well as the combined offering, may involve discussion with

140

IFRS 15.BC112.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 110

employees from various departments (e.g., engineering, sales), in addition to

those in the accounting and finance departments. An entity also needs to

consider how its products and services are described in publicly available

information (e.g., the entity’s website, investor relations reports, financial

statement filings). Those descriptions may indicate which functionalities are

critical to the overall offering and influence customer expectations and whether

those functionalities significantly affect the utility of other goods or services in

the contract. Overall, the specific facts and circumstances of each offering and

contract have to be carefully considered.

The concept regarding an entity’s ability to separately fulfil a promise to a

customer is highlighted in Example 11, Case E, (included in section 4.2.3 below)

in the standard. Example 11, Case E, includes a contract for the sale of

equipment and specialised consumables to be used with the equipment. In this

example, the entity determines that the equipment and consumables are not

highly interdependent or highly interrelated because the two promises do not

significantly affect each other. As part of its analysis, the entity concludes that

it would be able to fulfil each of its promises in the contract independently of

the other promises.

March 2018 IFRS IC discussion

In 2017, the IFRS IC received a request regarding the identification of

performance obligations in a contract for the sale of a real estate unit that

includes the transfer of land. The request also asked about the timing of revenue

recognition for each performance obligation (either over-time or at a point in

time), which is discussed in Question 7-11 in section 7.1.3. At its March 2018

meeting, the IFRS IC concluded that the principles and requirements in IFRS 15

provide sufficient guidance for an entity to recognise revenue in a contract for

the sale of a real estate unit that includes the transfer of land. Consequently,

the IFRS IC decided not to add this matter to its agenda.

141

In considering this request, the IFRS IC noted that the assessment of the distinct

criteria requires judgement. Furthermore:

•

The assessment of the first criterion is “based on the characteristics of

the goods or services themselves. Accordingly, an entity disregards any

contractual limitations that might preclude the customer from obtaining

readily available resources from a source other than the entity” (see

section 4.2.1.A).

142

•

The objective underlying the second criterion is to determine the nature of

the promise within the context of the contract. That is, whether the entity

has promised to transfer either the promised goods or services individually

or a combined item to which those goods or services are inputs. IFRS 15

also includes some factors that indicate that two or more promises to

transfer goods or services are not separately identifiable.

143

However,

these factors are not intended to be criteria that an entity evaluates

independently of the ‘separately identifiable’ principle because, in some

instances, one or more of the factors may be less relevant to the evaluation

of that principle (see section 4.2.1.B).

144

In the Basis for Conclusion, the Board indicated that the separately

identifiable concept is influenced by the idea of separable risks. That is,

whether the risk assumed to fulfil the obligation to transfer one of the

promised goods or services to the customer is separable from the risk

141

IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

142

IFRS 15.BC100; IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

143

IFRS 15.29; IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

144

IFRS 15.BC116N; IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

111 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

relating to the transfer of the other promised goods or services). Evaluating

whether an entity’s promise is separately identifiable considers the

interrelationship between the goods or services within the contract in the

context of the process to fulfil the contract. Accordingly, an entity considers

the level of integration, interrelation or interdependence among the promises

in the contract to transfer goods or services. An entity evaluates whether,

in the process of fulfilling the contract, there is a transformative relationship

between the promises, rather than considering whether one item, by its

nature, depends upon another (i.e., whether the promises have a functional

relationship).

145

That is, the conclusion about whether the promised goods

or services are separately identifiable hinges on whether there is a

significant two-way dependency

between the items. Determining whether a

two-way dependency is significant such that the promises are separately

identifiable is a judgement that requires careful consideration.

The IFRS IC discussed the identification of performance obligations in its March

2018 meeting using the following example from the IFRS IC agenda paper:

146

Example of identification of performance obligations in a contract for

the sale of a real estate unit that includes the transfer of land

Entity A enters into a non-cancellable contract with a customer for the sale

of a real estate unit that involves the transfer of a plot of land and a building

that Entity A constructs on that land. The land represents all of the area on

which the building will be constructed and the contract is for the entire

building.

At contract inception, Entity A transfers the legal title of the land and the

customer pays the price specified in the contract for it. The transfer of legal

title to the customer cannot be revoked, regardless of what happens during

the construction of the building. Throughout the construction period, the

customer makes milestone payments that do not necessarily correspond

to the amount of work completed to date.

The design and specification of the building were agreed between the

counterparties before the contract was signed. However, during the

construction of the building, the customer can request changes to the design

and specification that are priced by Entity A based on a methodology

specified in the contract. If the customer decides to proceed with the

proposed changes, Entity A can reject them only for a limited number of

reasons (e.g., when the change would breach planning permission). Entity A

can only request changes if not doing so would lead to an unreasonable

increase in costs or delay construction. However, the customer must approve

those changes.

Entity A first assesses whether the land and the building are each capable

of being distinct in accordance with IFRS 15.27(a). Entity A determines that

the customer could benefit from the land on its own or together with other

resources readily available to it (e.g., by hiring another developer to

construct a building on the land). Also, Entity A determines that the customer

could benefit from the construction of the building on its own or together

with other resources readily available to it (e.g., by obtaining the construction

services from Entity A or another developer without transferring the land).

Therefore, Entity A concludes that the land and the building are each capable

of being distinct.

145

IFRS 15.BC105, 116J and 116K.

146

IFRS IC Agenda paper 2D, March 2018, Revenue recognition in a real estate contract that

includes the transfer of land (IFRS 15), available on the IASB’s website; IFRIC Update,

March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 112

Example of identification of performance obligations in a contract for

the sale of a real estate unit that includes the transfer of land (cont’d)

The criterion in paragraph 27(b) is then assessed by Entity A in order to

determine whether the land and the buildaing are distinct in the context of

the contract. In making this assessment, Entity A considers the factors in

IFRS 15.29, including the following:

Whether it provides a significant service of integrating the land and the

building into a combined output. Entity A analyses the transformative

relationship between the transfer of the land and the construction of the

building in the process of fulfilling the contract. As part of this analysis, it

considers whether its performance in constructing the building would be

different if it did not also transfer the land and vice versa. Despite the

functional relationship between the land and the building (because the

building cannot exist without the land on which its foundations will be

built), the risks assumed by Entity A in transferring the land may, or

may not, be separable from those assumed in constructing the building.

Whether the land and the building are highly interdependent or highly

interrelated. Entity A determines whether its promise to transfer the land

could be fulfilled if it did not also construct the building and vice versa.

The IFRS IC concluded that the two promises would be separately identifiable

if Entity A concluded that “(a) its performance in constructing the building

would be the same regardless of whether it also transferred the land; and

(b) it would be able to fulfil its promise to construct the building even if it did

not also transfer the land, and would be able to fulfil its promise to transfer

the land even if it did not also construct the building.”

147

Examples

The IASB included a number of examples in the standard that illustrate

the application of the requirements for identifying performance obligations.

The examples include analysis of how an entity may determine whether the

promises to transfer goods or services are distinct within the context of the

contract. Refer to section 4.2.3 below for full extracts of several of these

examples.

How we see it

IAS 18 indicated that an entity may need to apply its recognition criteria

to separately identifiable elements in order to reflect the substance of the

transaction. However, it did not provide additional application guidance for

determining those separate elements. As such, the requirements in IFRS 15

may have changed practice.

Many IFRS preparers developed their legacy IFRS accounting policies

by reference to legacy US GAAP. Whether IFRS 15 results in a change in

practice may depend on which US GAAP requirements they had considered

when developing their policies.

The first step of the two-step process to determine whether goods or

services are distinct is similar to the principles for determining separate units

of accounting under legacy US GAAP requirements in ASC 605-25, Revenue

Recognition — Multiple-Element Arrangements. However, the second step

of considering the goods or services within the context of the contract is

a new requirement that entities have found especially challenging to apply.

147

IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

113 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Therefore, entities needed to carefully evaluate this second step to

determine whether their historical units of account for revenue recognition

had to change on transition to IFRS 15. This evaluation may have required

an entity to use significant judgement.

Entities that had previously looked to other legacy US GAAP requirements to

develop their accounting policies, such as ASC 985-605, Software —

Revenue Recognition, may have also reached different conclusions under

IFRS 15.

It is important to note that the assessment of whether a good or service is

distinct must consider the specific contract with a customer. That is, an

entity cannot assume that a particular good or service is distinct (or not

distinct) in all instances. The manner in which promised goods or services

are bundled within a contract can affect the conclusion of whether a good or

service is distinct. As a result, entities may account the same goods or

services differently, depending on how those goods or services are bundled

within a contract.

4.2.2 Series of distinct goods or services that are substantially the same and

have the same pattern of transfer (updated September 2019)

As discussed above, IFRS 15.22(b) defines, as a second type of performance

obligation, a promise to transfer to the customer a series of distinct goods

or services that are substantially the same and that have the same pattern

of transfer, if both of the following criteria from IFRS 15.23 are met:

•

Each distinct good or service in the series that the entity promises to

transfer represents a performance obligation that would be satisfied

over time, in accordance with IFRS 15.35 (see below and section 7.1), if

it were accounted for separately.

•

The entity would measure its progress toward satisfaction of the

performance obligation using the same measure of progress for each

distinct good or service in the series (see section 7.1.4).

If a series of distinct goods or services meets the criteria in IFRS 15.22(b) and

IFRS 15.23 (i.e., the series requirement), an entity is required to treat that

series as a single performance obligation (i.e., it is not optional). The Board

incorporated this requirement to simplify the model and promote consistent

identification of performance obligations in cases when an entity provides the

same good or service over a period of time.

148

Without the series requirement,

the Board noted that applying the revenue model might present operational

challenges because an entity would have to identify multiple distinct goods

or services, allocate the transaction price to each distinct good or service on

a stand-alone selling price basis and then recognise revenue when those

performance obligations are satisfied. The IASB determined that this would not

be cost effective. Instead, an entity identifies a single performance obligation

and allocate the transaction price to that performance obligation. It will then

148

IFRS 15.BC113.

Distinct and

substantially the

same

Satisfied over

time

Same measure of

progress

One performance

obligation

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 114

recognise revenue by applying a single measure of progress to that

performance obligation.

149

For distinct goods or services to be accounted for as a series, one of the criteria

is that they must be substantially the same. This is often the most difficult

criterion for entities to assess. In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board provided

three examples of repetitive services (i.e., cleaning, transaction processing and

delivering electricity) that meet the series requirement.

150

In addition, TRG

members generally agreed that when determining whether distinct goods or

services are substantially the same, entities need to first determine the nature

of their promise. This is because a series could consist of either specified

quantities of the underlying good or service delivered (e.g., each unit of a good)

or distinct time increments (e.g., an hourly service), depending on the nature

of the promise. That is, if the nature of the promise is to deliver a specified

quantity of service (e.g., monthly payroll services over a defined contract

period), the evaluation considers whether each service is distinct and

substantially the same. In contrast, if the nature of the entity’s promise is to

stand ready or provide a single service for a period of time (i.e., because there

is an unspecified quantity to be delivered), the evaluation considers whether

each time increment (e.g., hour, day), rather than the underlying activities, is

distinct and substantially the same.

151

The following flow chart illustrates how the determination of the nature of the

promise might affect whether the series requirement applies:

149

IFRS 15.BC114.

150

IFRS 15.BC114.

151

TRG Agenda paper no. 39, Application of the Series Provision and Allocation of Variable

Consideration, dated 13 July 2015.

Determine the nature of the promise

Delivery of a specified quantity of a

good or service (e.g., monthly payroll

processing for one year) that is

satisfied over time

Delivery of an unspecified quantity of

a service (e.g., stand-ready

obligation to provide an

IT outsourcing service for one year)

that is satisfied over time

Is each good or service distinct

and substantially the same?

Is each time increment distinct

and substantially the same?

Not a series

Series Series

Yes

115 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

It is important to highlight that even if the underlying activities an entity

performs to satisfy a promise vary significantly throughout the day and from

day to day, that fact, by itself, does not mean the distinct goods or services

are not substantially the same. Consider an example where the nature of

the promise is to provide a daily hotel management service. The service is

comprised of activities that may vary each day (e.g., cleaning services,

reservation services or property maintenance). However, the entity determines

that the daily hotel management services are substantially the same because

the nature of the entity’s promise is the same each day and the entity is

providing the same overall management service each day. See Question 4-6

below for further discussion on determining the nature of an entity’s promise

and evaluating the substantially the same criterion.

A July 2015 TRG agenda paper explained that, when considering the nature of

the entity’s promise and the applicability of the series requirement (including

whether a good or service is distinct), it may be helpful to consider which over-

time criterion in IFRS 15.35 was met (i.e., why the entity concluded that

the performance obligation is satisfied over time).

152

As discussed further

in section 7.1, a performance obligation is satisfied over time if one of three

criteria are met. For example, if a performance obligation is satisfied over time

because the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits

provided as the entity performs (i.e., the first over-time criterion in

IFRS 15.35(a)), that may indicate that each increment of service is capable of

being distinct. If that is the case, the entity would need to evaluate whether

each increment of service is separately identifiable (and substantially the same).

If a performance obligation is satisfied over time based on the other two criteria

in IFRS 15.35 (i.e., (1) the entity’s performance creates or enhances an asset

that the customer controls as the asset is created or enhanced; or (2) the

entity’s performance does not create an asset with an alternative use to the

entity and the entity has an enforceable right to payment for performance

completed to date), the nature of that promise might be to deliver a single

specified good or service (e.g., a contract to construct a single piece of

equipment), which would not be considered a series because the individual

goods or services within that performance obligation are not distinct.

An entity’s determination of whether a performance obligation is a single

performance obligation comprising a series of distinct goods or services or a

single performance obligation comprising goods or services that are not distinct

from one another affects the accounting in the following areas: (1) allocation

of variable consideration (see section 6.3); (2) contract modifications (see

section 3.4); and (3) changes in transaction price (see section 6.5). As the IASB

discussed in the Basis for Conclusions and members of the TRG discussed at

their March 2015 meeting, an entity considers the underlying distinct goods or

services in the contract, rather than the single performance obligation identified

under the series requirement, when applying the requirements for these three

areas of the model.

153

152

TRG Agenda paper no. 39, Application of the Series Provision and Allocation of Variable

Consideration, dated 13 July 2015.

153

IFRS 15.BC115 and TRG Agenda paper no. 27, Series of Distinct Goods or Services, dated

30 March 2015, respectively.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 116

The following example, included in a March 2015 TRG agenda paper, illustrates

how the allocation of variable consideration may differ for a single performance

obligation identified under the series requirement and a single performance

obligation comprising non-distinct goods and/or services:

154

Example of allocation of variable consideration for a series versus a

single performance obligation comprising non-distinct goods and/or

services

Consider a five-year service contract that includes payment terms of a fixed

annual fee plus a performance bonus upon completion of a milestone at the

end of year two. If the entire service period is determined to be a single

performance obligation comprising a series of distinct services, the entity

may be able to conclude that the variable consideration (i.e., the bonus

amount) should be allocated directly to its efforts to perform the distinct

services up to the date that the milestone is achieved (e.g., the underlying

distinct services in years one and two). This could result in the entity

recognising the entire bonus amount at the end of year two (when it is highly

probable that a significant revenue reversal will not occur). See Question 4-6

for several examples of services for which it would be reasonable to conclude

that they meet the series requirement.

In contrast, if the entity determines that the entire service period is a single

performance obligation that is comprised of non-distinct services, the bonus

would be included in the transaction price (subject to the constraint on

variable consideration — see section 5.2.3) and recognised based on the

measure of progress determined for the entire service period. For example,

assume the bonus becomes part of the transaction price at the end of year

two (when it is highly probable that a significant revenue reversal will not

occur). In that case, a portion of the bonus would be recognised at that the

end of year two based on performance completed to date and a portion

would be recognised as the remainder of the performance obligation is

satisfied. As a result, the bonus amount would be recognised as revenue

through to the end of the five-year service period.

How we see it

We believe that entities may need to apply significant judgement when

determining whether a promised good or service in a contract with a

customer meets the criteria to be accounted for as a series of distinct goods

or services. As illustrated in Question 4-6 below, promised goods or services

that meet the series criteria are not limited to a particular industry and can

encompass a wide array of promised goods or services.

Entities should consider whether they need to add or make changes to their

business processes or internal controls as a result of this requirement.

154

TRG Agenda paper no. 27, Series of Distinct Goods or Services, dated 30 March 2015.

117 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions

Question 4-4: In order to apply the series requirement, must the goods or

services be consecutively transferred? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015 –

Agenda paper no. 27]

TRG members generally agreed that a series of distinct goods or services

need not be consecutively transferred. That is, the series requirement must

be applied even when there is a gap or an overlap in an entity’s transfer of

goods or services, provided that the other criteria are met. TRG members

also noted that entities may need to carefully consider whether the series

requirement applies, depending on the length of the gap between an entity’s

transfer of goods or services.

Stakeholders had asked this question because the Basis for Conclusions

uses the term ‘consecutively’ when it discusses the series requirement.

155

However, the TRG agenda paper concluded that the Board’s discussion was

not meant to imply that the series requirement only applies to circumstances

in which the entity provides the same good or service consecutively over

a period of time.

The TRG agenda paper included an example of a contract under which an

entity provides a manufacturing service producing 24,000 units of a product

over a two-year period. The conclusion in the TRG agenda paper was that the

criteria for the series requirement in IFRS 15.23 were met because the units

produced under the service arrangement were substantially the same and

were distinct services that would be satisfied over time (see section 7.1). This

is because the units are manufactured to meet the customer’s specifications

(i.e., the entity’s performance does not create an asset with alternative use

to the entity). Furthermore, if the contract were to be cancelled, the entity

would have an enforceable right to payment (cost plus a reasonable profit

margin).

The conclusion in the TRG agenda paper was not influenced by whether

the entity would perform the service evenly over the two-year period

(e.g., produce 1,000 units per month). That is, the entity could produce

2,000 units in some months and none in others, but this would not be

a determining factor in concluding whether the contract met the criteria

to be accounted for as a series.

155

IFRS 15.BC113, BC116.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 118

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 4-5: In order to apply the series requirement, does the accounting

result need to be the same as if the underlying distinct goods or services

were accounted for as separate performance obligations? [TRG meeting

30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 27]

TRG members generally agreed that the accounting result does not need to

be the same. Furthermore, an entity is not required to prove that the result

would be the same as if the goods or services were accounted for as separate

performance obligations.

Question 4-6: In order to apply the series requirement, how should an entity

consider whether a performance obligation consists of distinct goods or

services that are ‘substantially the same’? [TRG meeting 13 July 2015 –

Agenda paper no. 39]

As discussed above, TRG members generally agreed that the TRG paper,

which primarily focused on the application of the series requirement to

service contracts, will help entities understand how to determine whether

a performance obligation consists of distinct goods or services that are

‘substantially the same’ under IFRS 15.

The TRG agenda paper noted that, when making the evaluation of whether

goods or services are distinct and substantially the same, an entity first

needs to determine the nature of the entity’s promise in providing services

to the customer. That is, if the nature of the promise is to deliver a specified

quantity of service (e.g., monthly payroll services over a defined contract

period), the evaluation should consider whether each service is distinct and

substantially the same. In contrast, if the nature of the entity’s promise is

to stand ready or provide a single service for a period of time (i.e., because

there is an unspecified quantity to be delivered), the evaluation would

consider whether each time increment (e.g., hour, day), rather than the

underlying activities, is distinct and substantially the same. The TRG agenda

paper noted that the Board intended that a series could consist of either

specified quantities of the underlying good or service delivered (e.g., each

unit of a good) or distinct time increments (e.g., an hourly service), depending

on the nature of the promise.

As discussed above in section 4.2.2, it is important to highlight that the

underlying activities an entity performs to satisfy a performance obligation

could vary significantly throughout a day and from day to day. However,

the TRG agenda paper noted that this not determinative in the assessment

of whether a performance obligation consists of goods or services that are

distinct and substantially the same. Consider an example where the nature

of the promise is to provide a daily hotel management service. The hotel

management service comprises various activities that may vary each day

(e.g., cleaning services, reservation services, property maintenance).

However, the entity determines that the daily hotel management services are

substantially the same because the nature of the entity’s promise is the same

each day and the entity is providing the same overall management service

each day.

The TRG agenda paper included several examples of promised goods or

services that may meet the series requirement and the analysis that supports

that conclusion. The evaluation of the nature of the promise for each example

is consistent with Example 13 of IFRS 15 on monthly payroll processing.

119 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Below we have summarised some of the examples and analysis in the TRG

agenda paper.

Example of IT outsourcing

A vendor and customer execute a 10-year IT outsourcing arrangement in

which the vendor continuously delivers the outsourced activities over the

contract term (e.g., it provides server capacity, manages the customer’s

software portfolio, runs an IT help desk). The total monthly invoice is

calculated based on different units consumed for the respective activities.

The vendor concludes that the customer simultaneously receives and

consumes the benefits provided by its services as it performs (meeting the

over-time criterion in IFRS 15.35(a)).

The vendor first considers the nature of its promise to the customer.

Because the vendor has promised to provide an unspecified quantity of

activities, rather than a defined number of services, the TRG agenda paper

noted that the vendor could reasonably conclude that the nature of

the promise is an obligation to stand ready to provide the integrated

outsourcing service each day. If the nature of the promise is the overall

IT outsourcing service, each day of service could be considered distinct

because the customer can benefit from each day of service on its own

and each day is separately identifiable. The TRG agenda paper also noted

that the vendor could reasonably conclude that each day of service

is substantially the same. That is, even if the individual activities that

comprise the performance obligation vary from day to day, the nature

of the overall promise is the same from day to day. Accordingly, it would

be reasonable for an entity to conclude that this contract meets the series

requirement.

Example of transaction processing

A vendor enters into a 10-year contract with a customer to provide

continuous access to its system and to process all transactions on behalf

of the customer. The customer is obliged to use the vendor’s system, but

the ultimate quantity of transactions is unknown. The vendor concludes

that the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits as it

performs.

If the vendor concludes that the nature of its promise is to provide

continuous access to its system, rather than process a particular quantity

of transactions, it might conclude that there is a single performance

obligation to stand ready to process as many transactions as the customer

requires. If that is the case, the TRG agenda paper noted that it would be

reasonable to conclude that there are multiple distinct time increments

of the service. Each day of access to the service provided to the customer

could be considered substantially the same since the customer is deriving

a consistent benefit from the access each day, even if a different number

of transactions are processed each day.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 120

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of transaction processing (cont’d)

If the vendor concludes that the nature of the promise is the processing

of each transaction, the TRG agenda paper noted that each transaction

processed could be considered substantially the same even if there

are multiple types of transactions that generate different payments.

Furthermore, the TRG agenda paper noted that each transaction

processed could be a distinct service because the customer could benefit

from each transaction on its own and each transaction could be separately

identifiable. Accordingly, it would be reasonable for an entity to conclude

that this contract meets the series requirement.

Example of hotel management

A hotel manager (HM) enters into a 20-year contract to manage properties

on behalf of a customer. HM receives monthly consideration of 1% of the

monthly rental revenue, as well as reimbursement of labour costs incurred

to perform the service and an annual incentive payment. HM concludes

that the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits of

its services as it performs.

HM considers the nature of its promise to the customer. If the nature of

its promise is the overall management service (because the underlying

activities are not distinct from each other), the TRG agenda paper noted

that each day of service could be considered distinct because the customer

can benefit from each day of service on its own and each day of service is

separately identifiable.

Assuming the nature of the promise is the overall management service,

the TRG agenda paper noted that the service performed each day could

be considered distinct and substantially the same. This is because, even if

the individual activities that comprise the performance obligation vary

significantly throughout the day and from day to day, the nature of the

overall promise to provide the management service is the same from day

to day. Accordingly, it would be reasonable for an entity to conclude that

this contract meets the series requirement.

The following is another example of promised goods and services that may

meet the series provision and the analysis that supports that conclusion:

Illustration 4-2: Identifying whether promised goods and services

represent a series

A software as a service (SaaS) provider enters into a three-year contract

with Customer X to provide access to its SaaS basic customer relationship

management (CRM) application for CU300,000. The contract also includes

professional services that will personalise the user’s interface based on the

user’s role. These services are sold separately from the CRM application

and can be provided by third party vendors. The customer can benefit from

the CRM application without the professional services, which do not

significantly customise or modify the CRM application.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 4-2: Identifying whether promised goods and services

represent a series (cont’d)

The SaaS provider determines that the CRM application and professional

services are distinct (i.e., the CRM application and the professional

services should not be combined into a single performance obligation). The

two services are each capable of being distinct because Customer X can

benefit from them on their own. The services are distinct within the

context of the contract because they are not highly interdependent or

interrelated and each service does not significantly modify or customise

the other.

The SaaS provider first determines that the nature of the CRM application

promise is to provide continuous access to its CRM application for the

three-year period. Although the activities that Customer X may be able to

perform via the CRM application may vary from day to day, the overall

promise is to provide continuous access to the CRM application to

Customer X for a period of three years.

The SaaS provider determines that access to the CRM application

represents a series of distinct services that are substantially the same and

have the same pattern of transfer to Customer X. Each day of service is

capable of being distinct because Customer X benefits each day from

access to the CRM application. Each day is distinct within the context of

the contract because there are no significant integration services, each

day does not modify or customise another day and each day is not highly

interdependent or interrelated. Each day of service is substantially the

same because Customer X derives a consistent benefit from the access to

the CRM application and has the same pattern of transfer over the term of

the contract. Each distinct service represents a performance obligation

that is satisfied over time and has the same measure of progress

(e.g., time-elapsed). Therefore, the criteria to account for access to the

CRM application as a series of distinct services (i.e., a single performance

obligation) are met.

The SaaS provider also considers whether the professional services meet

the criteria to be accounted for as a series. As part of this assessment, the

entity considers whether each day of the professional services is distinct

from the other days or whether the nature of the promise for the

professional services is for a combined output from all of the days. The

entity also considers the complexity of the professional services and

whether the activity of each day builds on one another or if each day is

substantially the same. This analysis requires judgement and is based on

the facts and circumstances of the professional services performed.

Question 4-7: Can an entity choose whether to apply the series

requirement?

No. As discussed above, if a series of distinct goods or services meets the

criteria in IFRS 15.22(b) and 23, an entity is required to treat that series as

a single performance obligation (i.e., it is not an optional requirement).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 122

4.2.3 Examples of identifying performance obligations

The standard includes several examples that illustrate the application of the

requirements for identifying performance obligations. The examples explain

the judgements made to determine whether the promises to transfer goods

or services are capable of being distinct and distinct within the context of

the contract. We have extracted these examples below.

The following example illustrates contracts with promised goods or services

that, while capable of being distinct, are not distinct within the context of the

contract because of a significant integration service that combines the inputs

(the underlying goods or services) into a combined output:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 10 — Goods and services are not distinct (IFRS 15.IE45-IE48C)

Case A—Significant integration service

An entity, a contractor, enters into a contract to build a hospital for a

customer. The entity is responsible for the overall management of the project

and identifies various promised goods and services, including engineering,

site clearance, foundation, procurement, construction of the structure, piping

and wiring, installation of equipment and finishing.

The promised goods and services are capable of being distinct in accordance

with paragraph 27(a) of IFRS 15. That is, the customer can benefit from

the goods and services either on their own or together with other readily

available resources. This is evidenced by the fact that the entity, or

competitors of the entity, regularly sells many of these goods and services

separately to other customers. In addition, the customer could generate

economic benefit from the individual goods and services by using, consuming,

selling or holding those goods or services.

However, the promises to transfer the goods and services are not separately

identifiable in accordance with paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15 (on the basis of

the factors in paragraph 29 of IFRS 15). This is evidenced by the fact that

the entity provides a significant service of integrating the goods and services

(the inputs) into the hospital (the combined output) for which the customer

has contracted.

Because both criteria in paragraph 27 of IFRS 15 are not met, the goods and

services are not distinct. The entity accounts for all of the goods and services

in the contract as a single performance obligation.

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Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

Case B—Significant integration service

An entity enters into a contract with a customer that will result in the

delivery of multiple units of a highly complex, specialised device. The terms

of the contract require the entity to establish a manufacturing process in

order to produce the contracted units. The specifications are unique to

the customer, based on a custom design that is owned by the customer

and that were developed under the terms of a separate contract that is

not part of the current negotiated exchange. The entity is responsible for

the overall management of the contract, which requires the performance

and integration of various activities including procurement of materials,

identifying and managing subcontractors, and performing manufacturing,

assembly and testing.

The entity assesses the promises in the contract and determines that each

of the promised devices is capable of being distinct in accordance with

paragraph 27(a) of IFRS 15 because the customer can benefit from each

device on its own. This is because each unit can function independently

of the other units.

The entity observes that the nature of its promise is to establish and provide

a service of producing the full complement of devices for which the

customer has contracted in accordance with the customer’s specifications.

The entity considers that it is responsible for overall management of the

contract and for providing a significant service of integrating various goods

and services (the inputs) into its overall service and the resulting devices

(the combined output) and, therefore, the devices and the various promised

goods and services inherent in producing those devices are not separately

identifiable in accordance with paragraph 27(b) and paragraph 29 of

IFRS 15. In this case, the manufacturing process provided by the entity

is specific to its contract with the customer. In addition, the nature of the

entity’s performance and, in particular, the significant integration service

of the various activities means that a change in one of the entity’s activities

to produce the devices has a significant effect on the other activities

required to produce the highly complex, specialised devices such that the

entity’s activities are highly interdependent and highly interrelated. Because

the criterion in paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15 is not met, the goods and

services that will be provided by the entity are not separately identifiable

and, therefore, are not distinct. The entity accounts for all of the goods

and services promised in the contract as a single performance obligation.

The determination of whether a ‘significant integration service’ exists within

a contract, as illustrated in Case A and Case B above, requires significant

judgement and is heavily dependent on the unique facts and circumstances

for each individual contract with a customer.

The following example illustrates how the significance of installation services

can affect an entity’s conclusion about the number of identified performance

obligations for similar fact patterns. In Case A, each of the promised goods and

services are determined to be distinct. In Case B, two of the promised goods

and services are combined into a single performance obligation because

one promise (the installation) significantly customises another promise (the

software).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 124

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 11 — Determining whether goods or services are distinct

(IFRS 15.IE49-IE58)

Case A—Distinct goods or services

An entity, a software developer, enters into a contract with a customer

to transfer a software licence, perform an installation service and provide

unspecified software updates and technical support (online and telephone)

for a two-year period. The entity sells the licence, installation service and

technical support separately. The installation service includes changing

the web screen for each type of user (for example, marketing, inventory

management and information technology). The installation service is

routinely performed by other entities and does not significantly modify

the software. The software remains functional without the updates and

the technical support.

The entity assesses the goods and services promised to the customer

to determine which goods and services are distinct in accordance with

paragraph 27 of IFRS 15. The entity observes that the software is delivered

before the other goods and services and remains functional without the

updates and the technical support. The customer can benefit from the

updates together with the software licence transferred at the start of the

contract. Thus, the entity concludes that the customer can benefit from

each of the goods and services either on their own or together with the

other goods and services that are readily available and the criterion in

paragraph 27(a) of IFRS 15 is met.

The entity also considers the principle and the factors in paragraph 29 of

IFRS 15 and determines that the promise to transfer each good and service

to the customer is separately identifiable from each of the other promises

(thus the criterion in paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15 is met). In reaching this

determination, the entity considers that, although it integrates the software

into the customer’s system, the installation services do not significantly affect

the customer’s ability to use and benefit from the software licence because

the installation services are routine and can be obtained from alternative

providers. The software updates do not significantly affect the customer’s

ability to use and benefit from the software licence during the licence period.

The entity further observes that none of the promised goods or services

significantly modify or customise one another, nor is the entity providing a

significant service of integrating the software and the services into a

combined output. Lastly, the entity concludes that the software and the

services do not significantly affect each other and, therefore, are not highly

interdependent or highly interrelated, because the entity would be able to

fulfil its promise to transfer the initial software licence independently from

its promise to subsequently provide the installation service, software updates

or technical support.

On the basis of this assessment, the entity identifies four performance

obligations in the contract for the following goods or services:

(a) the software licence;

(b) an installation service;

(d) technical support.

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Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

The entity applies paragraphs 31–38 of IFRS 15 to determine whether each

of the performance obligations for the installation service, software updates

and technical support are satisfied at a point in time or over time. The entity

also assesses the nature of the entity’s promise to transfer the software

licence in accordance with paragraph B58 of IFRS 15 (see Example 54 in

paragraphs IE276–IE277).

Case B—Significant customisation

The promised goods and services are the same as in Case A, except that the

contract specifies that, as part of the installation service, the software is to

be substantially customised to add significant new functionality to enable the

software to interface with other customised software applications used by

the customer. The customised installation service can be provided by other

entities.

The entity assesses the goods and services promised to the customer

to determine which goods and services are distinct in accordance with

paragraph 27 of IFRS 15. The entity first assesses whether the criterion in

paragraph 27(a) has been met. For the same reasons as in Case A, the entity

determines that the software licence, installation, software updates and

technical support each meet that criterion. The entity next assesses whether

the criterion in paragraph 27(b) has been met by evaluating the principle and

the factors in paragraph 29 of IFRS 15. The entity observes that the terms of

the contract result in a promise to provide a significant service of integrating

the licenced software into the existing software system by performing

a customised installation service as specified in the contract. In other words,

the entity is using the licence and the customised installation service as inputs

to produce the combined output (ie a functional and integrated software

system) specified in the contract (see paragraph 29(a) of IFRS 15). The

software is significantly modified and customised by the service (see

paragraph 29(b) of IFRS 15). Consequently, the entity determines that

the promise to transfer the licence is not separately identifiable from

the customised installation service and, therefore, the criterion in

paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15 is not met. Thus, the software licence and

the customised installation service are not distinct.

On the basis of the same analysis as in Case A, the entity concludes that the

software updates and technical support are distinct from the other promises

in the contract.

On the basis of this assessment, the entity identifies three performance

obligations in the contract for the following goods or services:

(a) software customisation (which comprises the licence for the software

and the customised installation service);

(b) software updates; and

The entity applies paragraphs 31–38 of IFRS 15 to determine whether

each performance obligation is satisfied at a point in time or over time.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 126

The following examples illustrate contracts that include multiple promised

goods or services, all of which are determined to be distinct. The examples

highlight the importance of considering both the separately identifiable principle

and the underlying factors in IFRS 15.29.

Case C illustrates a contract that includes the sale of equipment and installation

services. The equipment can be operated without any customisation or

modification. The installation is not complex and can be performed by other

entities. The entity determines that the two promises in the contract are

distinct.

Case D illustrates that certain types of contractual restrictions, including those

that require a customer to only use the entity’s services, should not affect the

evaluation of whether a promised good or service is distinct.

Case E illustrates a contract that includes the sale of equipment and specialised

consumables to be used with the equipment. Even though the consumables can

only be produced by the entity, they are sold separately. The entity determines

that the two promises in the contract are distinct and the example walks

through the analysis for determining whether the promises are capable of

being distinct and distinct in the context of the contract. As part of this analysis,

the entity concludes that the equipment and consumables are not highly

interrelated nor highly interdependent because the two promises do not

significantly affect each other. That is, the entity would be able to fulfil each

of its promises in the contract independently of the other promises.

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 11 — Determining whether goods or services are distinct

(IFRS 15.IE58A-IE58K)

Case C—Promises are separately identifiable (installation)

An entity contracts with a customer to sell a piece of equipment and

installation services. The equipment is operational without any customisation

or modification. The installation required is not complex and is capable of

being performed by several alternative service providers.

The entity identifies two promised goods and services in the contract:

(a) equipment and (b) installation. The entity assesses the criteria in

paragraph 27 of IFRS 15 to determine whether each promised good or

service is distinct. The entity determines that the equipment and the

installation each meet the criterion in paragraph 27(a) of IFRS 15. The

customer can benefit from the equipment on its own, by using it or reselling

it for an amount greater than scrap value, or together with other readily

available resources (for example, installation services available from

alternative providers). The customer also can benefit from the installation

services together with other resources that the customer will already have

obtained from the entity (ie the equipment).

The entity further determines that its promises to transfer the equipment

and to provide the installation services are each separately identifiable (in

accordance with paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15). The entity considers the

principle and the factors in paragraph 29 of IFRS 15 in determining that

the equipment and the installation services are not inputs to a combined item

in this contract. In this case, each of the factors in paragraph 29 of IFRS 15

contributes to, but is not individually determinative of, the conclusion that the

127 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

equipment and the installation services are separately identifiable as follows:

(a) The entity is not providing a significant integration service. That is,

the entity has promised to deliver the equipment and then install it;

the entity would be able to fulfil its promise to transfer the equipment

separately from its promise to subsequently install it. The entity has

not promised to combine the equipment and the installation services

in a way that would transform them into a combined output.

(b) The entity’s installation services will not significantly customise or

significantly modify the equipment.

after it has obtained control of the equipment, the installation services

do not significantly affect the equipment because the entity would be

able to fulfil its promise to transfer the equipment independently of its

promise to provide the installation services. Because the equipment and

the installation services do not each significantly affect the other, they

are not highly interdependent or highly interrelated.

On the basis of this assessment, the entity identifies two performance

obligations in the contract for the following goods or services:

(i) the equipment; and

(ii) installation services.

The entity applies paragraphs 31–38 of IFRS 15 to determine whether

each performance obligation is satisfied at a point in time or over time.

Case D—Promises are separately identifiable (contractual restrictions)

Assume the same facts as in Case C, except that the customer is

contractually required to use the entity’s installation services.

The contractual requirement to use the entity’s installation services does

not change the evaluation of whether the promised goods and services are

distinct in this case. This is because the contractual requirement to use the

entity’s installation services does not change the characteristics of the goods

or services themselves, nor does it change the entity’s promises to the

customer. Although the customer is required to use the entity’s installation

services, the equipment and the installation services are capable of being

distinct (ie they each meet the criterion in paragraph 27(a) of IFRS 15) and

the entity’s promises to provide the equipment and to provide the installation

services are each separately identifiable, ie they each meet the criterion in

paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15. The entity’s analysis in this regard is consistent

with that in Case C.

Case E—Promises are separately identifiable (consumables)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to provide a piece of off-

the-shelf equipment (ie the equipment is operational without any significant

customisation or modification) and to provide specialised consumables for

use in the equipment at predetermined intervals over the next three years.

The consumables are produced only by the entity, but are sold separately

by the entity.

The entity determines that the customer can benefit from the equipment

together with the readily available consumables. The consumables are readily

available in accordance with paragraph 28 of IFRS 15, because they are

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 128

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

regularly sold separately by the entity (ie through refill orders to customers

that previously purchased the equipment). The customer can benefit from

the consumables that will be delivered under the contract together with the

delivered equipment that is transferred to the customer initially under the

contract. Therefore, the equipment and the consumables are each capable

of being distinct in accordance with paragraph 27(a) of IFRS 15.

The entity determines that its promises to transfer the equipment and

to provide consumables over a three-year period are each separately

identifiable in accordance with paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15. In determining

that the equipment and the consumables are not inputs to a combined item

in this contract, the entity considers that it is not providing a significant

integration service that transforms the equipment and consumables into

a combined output. In addition, neither the equipment nor the consumables

are significantly customised or modified by the other. Lastly, the entity

concludes that the equipment and the consumables are not highly

interdependent or highly interrelated because they do not significantly

affect each other. Although the customer can benefit from the consumables

in this contract only after it has obtained control of the equipment (ie

the consumables would have no use without the equipment) and the

consumables are required for the equipment to function, the equipment

and the consumables do not each significantly affect the other. This is

because the entity would be able to fulfil each of its promises in the contract

independently of the other. That is, the entity would be able to fulfil its

promise to transfer the equipment even if the customer did not purchase

any consumables and would be able to fulfil its promise to provide the

consumables, even if the customer acquired the equipment separately.

On the basis of this assessment, the entity identifies two performance

obligations in the contract for the following goods or services:

(a) the equipment; and

(b) the consumables.

The entity applies paragraphs 31–38 of IFRS 15 to determine whether

each performance obligation is satisfied at a point in time or over time.

4.3 Promised goods or services that are not distinct

If a promised good or service does not meet the criteria to be considered

distinct, an entity is required to combine that good or service with other

promised goods or services until the entity identifies a bundle of goods or

services that, together, is distinct. This could result in an entity combining

a good or service that is not considered distinct with another good or service

that, on its own, would meet the criteria to be considered distinct (see

section 4.2.1).

The standard provides two examples of contracts with promised goods or

services that, while capable of being distinct, are not distinct in the context

of the contract because of a significant integration service that combines the

inputs (the underlying goods or services) into a combined output. Full extracts

of these examples (Example 10, Case A, and Example 10, Case B) are included

in section 4.2.3 above.

129 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

4.4 Principal versus agent considerations (updated October

2018)

When more than one party is involved in providing goods or services to a

customer, the standard requires an entity to determine whether it is a principal

or an agent in these transactions by evaluating the nature of its promise to the

customer. An entity is a principal (and, therefore, records revenue on a gross

basis) if it controls a promised good or service before transferring that good or

service to the customer. An entity is an agent (and, therefore, records as revenue

the net amount that it retains for its agency services) if its role is to arrange for

another entity to provide the goods or services.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board explained that in order for an entity to

conclude that it is providing the good or service to the customer, it must first

control that good or service. That is, the entity cannot provide the good or

service to a customer if the entity does not first control it. If an entity controls

the good or service, the entity is a principal in the transaction. If an entity

does not control the good or service before it is transferred to the customer,

the entity is an agent in the transaction.

156

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board noted that an entity that itself

manufactures a good or performs a service is always a principal if it transfers

control of that good or service to another party. There is no need for such

an entity to evaluate the principal versus agent application guidance because

it transfers control of or provides its own good or service directly to its

customer without the involvement of another party. For example, if an entity

transfers control of a good to an intermediary that is a principal in providing

that good to an end-customer, the entity records revenue as a principal in

the sale of the good to its customer (the intermediary).

157

How we see it

Consistent with practice under legacy IFRS, entities need to carefully

evaluate whether they are acting as principal or as an agent. However, the

application guidance in IFRS 15 focuses on control of the specified goods or

services as the overarching principle for entities to consider in determining

whether they are acting as a principal or an agent. That is, an entity first

evaluates whether it controls the specified good or service before reviewing

the standard’s principal indicators. This may have resulted in entities

reaching different conclusions on transition than they did under legacy IFRS.

156

IFRS 15.BC385D.

157

IFRS 15.BC385E.

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IFRS 15 states the overall principle for the principal versus agent evaluation as

follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

B34. When another party is involved in providing goods or services to a

customer, the entity shall determine whether the nature of its promise is

a performance obligation to provide the specified goods or services itself

(ie the entity is a principal) or to arrange for those goods or services to be

provided by the other party (ie the entity is an agent). An entity determines

whether it is a principal or an agent for each specified good or service

promised to the customer. A specified good or service is a distinct good

or service (or a distinct bundle of goods or services) to be provided to the

customer (see paragraphs 27–30). If a contract with a customer includes

more than one specified good or service, an entity could be a principal for

some specified goods or services and an agent for others.

B34A. To determine the nature of its promise (as described in

paragraph B34), the entity shall:

(a) identify the specified goods or services to be provided to the customer

(which, for example, could be a right to a good or service to be provided

by another party (see paragraph 26)); and

(b) assess whether it controls (as described in paragraph 33) each specified

good or service before that good or service is transferred to the

customer.

B35. An entity is a principal if it controls the specified good or service before

that good or service is transferred to a customer. However, an entity does

not necessarily control a specified good if the entity obtains legal title to

that good only momentarily before legal title is transferred to a customer.

An entity that is a principal may satisfy its performance obligation to provide

the specified good or service itself or it may engage another party (for

example, a subcontractor) to satisfy some or all of the performance

obligation on its behalf.

The following flow chart illustrates the process for performing a principal versus

agent evaluation:

Yes

Is more than one party involved in providing

goods or services to a customer?

Identify the specified goods or services to be

provided to the customer (see section 4.4.1).

For each specified good or service, does the

entity control it before it is transferred to the

customer (see section 4.4.2)? As part of this

analysis, entities are required to consider the

definition of control in IFRS 15.33 and, as

additional support, may find it helpful to

consider the indicators in IFRS 15.B37.

No principal/agent

evaluation.

Recognise revenue

gross as the principal

for the specified good

or service.

Recognise revenue

net as the agent

for the specific

good or service.

If it is unclear whether the entity

controls a specified good or service

after consideration of the definition of

control in IFRS 15.33, consider the

following indicators from IFRS 15.B37

as additional support (see

section 4.4.2.A):

•

The entity is primarily responsible

for fulfilment and acceptability.

•

The entity has inventory risk before

or after transfer to customer.

•

The entity has discretion in setting

the price.

Indicators

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How we see it

The principal versus agent application guidance applies regardless of the

type of transaction under evaluation or the industry in which the entity

operates. Entities that: (a) do not stock inventory and may employ

independent warehouses or fulfilment houses to drop-ship merchandise

to customers on their behalf; or (b) offer services to be provided by an

independent service provider (e.g., travel agents, magazine subscription

brokers and retailers that sell goods through catalogues or that sell goods

on consignment) may need to apply significant judgement when applying

this application guidance.

4.4.1 Identifying the specified good or service

In accordance with IFRS 15.B34A, an entity must first identify the specified good

or service (or unit of account for the principal versus agent evaluation) to be

provided to the customer in the contract in order to determine the nature of

its promise (i.e., whether it is to provide the specified goods or services or to

arrange for those goods or services to be provided by another party). A specified

good or service is defined as “a distinct good or service (or a distinct bundle of

goods or services) to be provided to the customer”.

158

While this definition is

similar to that of a performance obligation (see section 4.2), the IASB noted

in the Basis for Conclusions that it created this new term because using

‘performance obligation’ would have been confusing in agency relationships.

159

That is, because an agent’s performance obligation is to arrange for goods

or services to be provided by another party, providing the specified goods or

services to the end-customer is not the agent’s performance obligation.

A specified good or service may be a distinct good or service or a distinct bundle

of goods or services. In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board noted that if

individual goods or services are not distinct from one another, they may be

inputs to a combined item and each good or service may represent only a part

of a single promise to the customer. For example, in a contract in which goods

or services provided by another party are inputs to a combined item (or items),

the entity would assess whether it controls the combined item (or items) before

that item (or items) is transferred to the customer.

160

That is, in determining

whether it is a principal or an agent, an entity should evaluate that single

promise to the customer, rather than the individual inputs that make up that

promise.

Appropriately identifying the good or service to be provided is a critical step

in determining whether an entity is a principal or an agent in a transaction.

In many situations, especially those involving tangible goods, identifying the

specified good or service is relatively straightforward. For example, if an entity

is reselling laptop computers, the specified good that is transferred to the

customer is a laptop computer.

However, the assessment may require significant judgement in other situations,

such as those involving intangible goods or services. In accordance with

IFRS 15.B34A(a), the specified good or service may be the underlying good or

service a customer ultimately wants to obtain (e.g., a flight, a meal) or a right to

obtain that good or service (e.g., in the form of a ticket or voucher). In the Basis

for Conclusions, the Board noted that when the specified good or service is

a right to a good or service that will be provided by another party, the entity

would determine whether its performance obligation is a promise to provide

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IFRS 15.B34.

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IFRS 15.BC385B.

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IFRS 15.BC385Q.

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that right (and it is, therefore, a principal) or whether it is arranging for the

other party to provide that right (and it is, therefore, an agent). The fact that

the entity does not provide the underlying goods or services itself is not

determinative.

161

The Board acknowledged that it may be difficult in some cases to determine

whether the specified good or service is the underlying good or service or

a right to obtain that good or service. Therefore, it provided examples in

the standard. Example 47 (extracted in full in section 4.4.4) involves an airline

ticket reseller. In this example, the entity pre-purchases airline tickets that it

will later sell to customers. While the customer ultimately wants airline travel,

the conclusion in Example 47 is that the specified good or service is the right

to fly on a specified flight (in the form of a ticket) and not the underlying flight

itself. The entity itself does not fly the plane and it cannot change the service

(e.g., change the flight time or destination). However, the entity obtained the

ticket prior to identifying a specific customer to purchase the ticket. As a result,

the entity holds an asset (in the form of a ticket) that represents a right to fly.

The entity could, therefore, transfer that right to a customer (as depicted in

the example) or decide to use the right itself.

Example 46A (extracted in full in section 4.4.4) involves an office maintenance

service provider. In this example, the entity concludes that the specified good

or service is the underlying office maintenance service (rather than a right to

that service). While the entity obtained the contract with the customer prior

to engaging a third party to perform the requested services, the right to the

subcontractor’s services never transfers to the customer. Instead, the entity

retains the right to direct the service provider. That is, the entity can direct

the right to use the subcontractor’s services as it chooses (e.g., to fulfil the

customer contract, to fulfil another customer contract, to service its own

facilities). Furthermore, the customer in Example 46A is indifferent as to who

carries out the office maintenance services. This is not the case in Example 47,

in which the customer wants the ticket reseller to sell one of its tickets on a

specific flight.

If a contract with a customer includes more than one specified good or service,

IFRS 15 clarifies that an entity may be a principal for some specified goods

or services and an agent for others.

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Example 48A in IFRS 15 provides

an illustration of this.

How we see it

As discussed above, appropriately identifying the specified good or service

to be provided to the customer is a critical step in identifying whether the

nature of an entity’s promise is to act as a principal or an agent. Entities

need to carefully examine their contract terms and may need to apply

significant judgement to determine whether the specified good or service

is the underlying good or service or a right to obtain that good or service.

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4.4.2 Control of the specified good or service (updated September 2019)

In accordance with IFRS 15.B34A, the second step in determining the nature of

the entity’s promise (i.e., whether it is to provide the specified goods or services

or to arrange for those goods or services to be provided by another party) is for

the entity to determine whether the entity controls the specified good or service

before it is transferred to the customer. An entity cannot provide the specified

good or service to a customer (and, therefore, be a principal) unless it controls

that good or service prior to its transfer. That is, as the Board noted in the Basis

for Conclusions, control is the determining factor when assessing whether an

entity is a principal or an agent.

163

In assessing whether an entity controls the specified good or service prior to

transfer to the customer, IFRS 15.B34A(b) requires the entity to consider the

definition of control that is included in Step 5 of the model, in accordance with

IFRS 15.33 (discussed further in section 7).

Extract from IFRS 15

33. Goods and services are assets, even if only momentarily, when they are

received and used (as in the case of many services). Control of an asset refers

to the ability to direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining

benefits from, the asset. Control includes the ability to prevent other entities

from directing the use of, and obtaining the benefits from, an asset. The

benefits of an asset are the potential cash flows (inflows or savings in

outflows) that can be obtained directly or indirectly in many ways, such as by:

(a) using the asset to produce goods or provide services (including public

services);

(b) using the asset to enhance the value of other assets;

(d) selling or exchanging the asset;

(e) pledging the asset to secure a loan; and

(f) holding the asset.

When evaluating the definition of control in IFRS 15.33, we believe it could be

helpful for entities to consider the indicators in IFRS 15.38 (see section 7.2)

that the IASB included to help determine the point in time when a customer

obtains control of a particular good or service (e.g., legal title, physical

possession, risks and rewards of ownership).

If, after evaluating the requirement in IFRS 15.33, an entity concludes that it

controls the specified good or service before it is transferred to the customer,

the entity is a principal in the transaction. If the entity does not control that

good or service before transfer to the customer, it is an agent.

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Stakeholder feedback indicated that the control principle was easier to apply to

tangible goods than to intangible goods or services because intangible goods

or services generally exist only at the moment they are delivered. To address

this concern, the standard includes application guidance on how the control

principle applies to certain types of arrangements (including service

transactions) by explaining what a principal controls before the specified

good or service is transferred to the customer:

Extract from IFRS 15

B35A. When another party is involved in providing goods or services to

a customer, an entity that is a principal obtains control of any one of

the following:

(a) a good or another asset from the other party that it then transfers to

the customer.

(b) a right to a service to be performed by the other party, which gives

the entity the ability to direct that party to provide the service to

the customer on the entity’s behalf.

other goods or services in providing the specified good or service to

the customer. For example, if an entity provides a significant service of

integrating goods or services (see paragraph 29(a)) provided by another

party into the specified good or service for which the customer has

contracted, the entity controls the specified good or service before that

good or service is transferred to the customer. This is because the entity

first obtains control of the inputs to the specified good or service (which

includes goods or services from other parties) and directs their use to

create the combined output that is the specified good or service.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board observed that an entity can control

a service to be provided by another party when it controls the right to the

specified service that will be provided to the customer.

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Generally, the entity

then either transfers the right (in the form of an asset, such as a ticket) to

its customer, in accordance with IFRS 15.B35A(a) (as in Example 47 involving

the airline ticket reseller discussed in section 4.4.1) or uses its right to direct

the other party to provide the specified service to the customer on the entity’s

behalf, in accordance with IFRS 15.B35A(b) (as in Example 46A involving the

office maintenance services discussed in section 4.4.1).

The condition described in IFRS 15.B35A(a) includes contracts in which

an entity transfers to the customer a right to a future service to be provided by

another party. If the specified good or service is a right to a good or service to

be provided by another party, the entity evaluates whether it controls the right

to the goods or services before that right is transferred to the customer (rather

than whether it controls the underlying goods or services). In the Basis for

Conclusions, the Board noted that, in assessing such rights, it is often relevant

to assess whether the right is created only when it is obtained by the customer

or whether the right exists before the customer obtains it. If the right does not

exist before the customer obtains it, an entity would not be able to control right

before it is transferred to the customer.

165

The standard includes two examples to illustrate this point. In Example 47

(discussed above in section 4.4.1 and extracted in full in section 4.4.4), which

involves an airline ticket reseller, the specified good or service is determined to

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be the right to fly on a specified flight (in the form of a ticket). One of the

determining factors for the principal-agent evaluation in this example is that the

entity pre-purchases the airline tickets before a specific customer is identified.

Accordingly, the right existed prior to a customer obtaining it. The example

concludes that the entity controls the right before it is transferred to the

customer (and is, therefore, a principal).

In Example 48 (extracted in full in section 4.4.4), an entity sells vouchers

that entitle customers to future meals at specified restaurants selected by

the customer. The specified good or service is determined to be the right to a

meal (in the form of a voucher). One of the determining factors for the principal-

agent evaluation is that the entity does not control the voucher (the right to

a meal) at any time. It does not pre-purchase or commit itself to purchase

the vouchers from the restaurants before they are sold to a customer. Instead,

the entity waits to purchase the voucher until a customer requests a voucher

for a particular restaurant. In addition, vouchers are created only at the time

that they are transferred to a customer and do not exist before that transfer.

Accordingly, the right does not exist before the customer obtains it.

Therefore, the entity does not at any time have the ability to direct the use

of the vouchers or obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from the

vouchers before they are transferred to customers. The example concludes

that the entity does not control the right before it is transferred to the customer

(and is, therefore, an agent).

In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB acknowledged that determining whether

an entity is a principal or an agent may be more difficult when evaluating

whether a contract falls under IFRS 15.B35A(b). That is, it may be difficult

to determine whether an entity has the ability to direct another party to provide

the service on its behalf (and is, therefore, a principal) or is only arranging

for the other party to provide the service (and is, therefore, an agent). As

depicted in Example 46A (as discussed in section 4.4.1 and extracted in full in

section 4.4.4), an entity could control the right to the specified service and be

a principal by entering into a contract with the subcontractor in which the entity

defines the scope of service to be performed by the subcontractor on its

behalf. This situation is equivalent to the entity fulfilling the contract using

its own resources. Furthermore, the entity remains responsible for the

satisfactory provision of the specified service in accordance with the contract

with the customer. In contrast, when the specified service is provided by

another party and the entity does not have the ability to direct those services,

the entity typically is an agent because the entity is facilitating, rather than

controlling the rights to, the service.

166

In accordance with IFRS 15.B35A(c), if an entity provides a significant service

of integrating two or more goods or services into a combined item that is the

specified good or service the customer contracted to receive, the entity

controls that specified good or service before it is transferred to the customer.

This is because the entity first obtains control of the inputs to the specified good

or service (which can include goods or services from other parties) and directs

their use to create the combined item that is the specified good or service. The

inputs would be a fulfilment cost to the entity. However, as noted by the Board

in the Basis for Conclusions, if a third party provides the significant integration

service, the entity’s customer for its good or services (which would be inputs to

the specified good or service) is likely to be the third party.

167

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IFRS 15.BC385V.

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Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 136

4.4.2.A Principal indicators (updated September 2019)

After considering the application guidance discussed above, it still may not be

clear whether an entity controls the specified good or service. Therefore, the

standard provides three indicators of when an entity controls the specified

good or service (and is, therefore, a principal):

Extract from IFRS 15

B37. Indicators that an entity controls the specified good or service before

it is transferred to the customer (and is therefore a principal (see

paragraph B35)) include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) the entity is primarily responsible for fulfilling the promise to provide

the specified good or service. This typically includes responsibility for

the acceptability of the specified good or service (for example, primary

responsibility for the good or service meeting customer specifications). If

the entity is primarily responsible for fulfilling the promise to provide the

specified good or service, this may indicate that the other party involved

in providing the specified good or service is acting on the entity’s behalf.

(b) the entity has inventory risk before the specified good or service has

been transferred to a customer or after transfer of control to the

customer (for example, if the customer has a right of return). For

example, if the entity obtains, or commits itself to obtain, the specified

good or service before obtaining a contract with a customer, that may

indicate that the entity has the ability to direct the use of, and obtain

substantially all of the remaining benefits from, the good or service

before it is transferred to the customer.

service. Establishing the price that the customer pays for the specified

good or service may indicate that the entity has the ability to direct the

use of that good or service and obtain substantially all of the remaining

benefits. However, an agent can have discretion in establishing prices in

some cases. For example, an agent may have some flexibility in setting

prices in order to generate additional revenue from its service of

arranging for goods or services to be provided by other parties to

customers.

The principal indicators above are meant to support an entity’s assessment of

control, not to replace it. Each indicator explains how it supports the

assessment of control. As emphasised in the Basis for Conclusions, the

indicators do not override the assessment of control, should not be viewed in

isolation and do not constitute a separate or additional evaluation.

Furthermore, they should not be considered a checklist of criteria to be met or

factors to be considered in all scenarios. IFRS 15.B37A notes that considering

one or more of the indicators will often be helpful and, depending on the facts

and circumstances, individual indicators will be more or less relevant or

persuasive to the assessment of control.

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If an entity reaches different

conclusions about whether it controls the specified good or service by applying

the standard’s definition of control versus the principal indicators, the entity

should re-evaluate its assessment, considering the facts and circumstances of

its contract. This is because an entity’s conclusions about control and the

principal indicators should align.

The first indicator that an entity is a principal, in IFRS 15.B37(a), is that the

entity is primarily responsible for both fulfilling the promise to provide the

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137 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

specified good or service to the customer and for the acceptability of the

specified good or service. We believe that one of the reasons that this indicator

supports the assessment of control of the specified good or service is because

an entity generally controls a specified good or service that it is responsible for

transferring control to a customer.

The terms of the contract and representations (written or otherwise) made by

an entity during marketing generally provide evidence of which party is

responsible for fulfilling the promise to provide the specified good or service

and for the acceptability of that good or service.

It is possible that one entity may not be solely responsible for both providing the

specified good or service and for the acceptability of that same good or service.

For example, a reseller may sell goods or services that are provided to the

customer by a supplier. However, if the customer is dissatisfied with the goods

or services it receives, the reseller may be solely responsible for providing

a remedy to the customer. The reseller may promote such a role during the

marketing process or may agree to such a role as claims arise in order to

maintain its relationship with its customer. In this situation, both the reseller

and the supplier possess characteristics of this indicator. Therefore, it is likely

that other indicators will need to be considered to determine which entity is the

principal. However, if the reseller is responsible for providing a remedy to

a dissatisfied customer, but can then pursue a claim against the supplier to

recoup any remedies it provides, that may indicate that the reseller is not

ultimately responsible for the acceptability of the specified good or service.

The second indicator that an entity is a principal, in IFRS 15.B37(b), is that

the entity has inventory risk (before the specified good or service is transferred

to the customer

or upon customer return). Inventory risk is the risk normally

taken by an entity that acquires inventory in the hope of reselling it at a profit.

Inventory risk exists if a reseller obtains (or commits to obtain) the specified

good or service before it is ordered by a customer. Inventory risk also exists if a

customer has a right of return and the reseller will take back the specified good

or service if the customer exercises that right.

This indicator supports the assessment of control of the specified good or

service because when an entity obtains (or commits to obtain) the specified

good or service before it has contracted with a customer, it is likely that the

entity has the ability to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of the

remaining benefits from the good or service. For example, inventory risk can

exist in a customer arrangement involving the provision of services if an entity

is obliged to compensate the individual service provider(s) for work performed,

regardless of whether the customer accepts that work. However, this indicator

often does not apply to intangible goods or services.

Factors may exist that mitigate a reseller’s inventory risk. For example,

a reseller’s inventory risk may be significantly reduced or eliminated if it has

the right to return to the supplier goods it cannot sell or goods that are returned

by customers. Another example is if a reseller receives inventory price

protection from the supplier. In these cases, the inventory risk indicator may

be less relevant or persuasive to the assessment of control.

The third principal indicator, in IFRS 15.B37(c), is that the entity has discretion

in establishing the price of the specified good or service. Reasonable latitude,

within economic constraints, to establish the price with a customer for the

product or service may indicate that the entity has the ability to direct the

use of that good or service and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits

(i.e., the entity controls the specified good or service). However, because an

agent may also have discretion in establishing the price of the specified good

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 138

or service, the facts and circumstances of the transaction need to be carefully

evaluated.

The illustration below, which is similar to Example 45 in the standard, shows how

an entity might conclude that it is an agent:

Illustration 4-3 — Entity is an agent

An entity operates a website that provides a marketplace for customers to

purchase goods from a variety of suppliers who deliver the goods directly to

the customers. The entity’s website facilitates customer payments to suppliers

at prices that are set by the suppliers. The entity requires payment from

customers before orders are processed and all orders are non-refundable. The

entity has no further obligations to the customers after arranging for the

products to be provided to them; the entity is not responsible for the

acceptability of goods provided to customers.

First, the entity evaluates the specified goods and concludes that there are no

other goods or services provided to the customer except for those provided

directly by the suppliers. Next, the entity considers whether it controls the

specified goods before they are transferred to the customers. Since the entity

does not at any time have the ability to direct the use of the goods transferred

to the customers, the entity concludes that it does not control the specified

goods before they are transferred. As part of this assessment, the entity

considers the three indicators of control in the standard and makes the

following determinations that support its overall control evaluation:

• The suppliers are responsible for fulfilling the promise to the customer

and the entity does not take responsibility for the acceptability of the

goods

• The entity does not have inventory risk because it does not obtain the

goods at any time

• The entity does not have discretion to establish prices because they are

set by the suppliers

The entity concludes that it is an agent for the goods sold through its website

because the nature of its performance obligation is to arrange for goods to be

provided to the customers.

In contrast, consider the following example of an entity that concludes it is

acting as a principal:

Illustration 4-4 — Entity is a principal

An entity operates a website that provides a marketplace for customers to

purchase digital content. The entity has entered into contracts with suppliers

that provide it with the right to sell the digital content during a non-cancellable

period of time in exchange for a fixed fee per unit of content. The entity can set

the price for the content to be sold to customers on its website. The entity is

contractually required to pay the supplier a fixed price or rate for any digital

content it sells to its customers and that price or rate is unaffected by the price

paid by the end-customers. The entity is responsible for assisting customers if

they encounter issues downloading the content or with the user experience,

and customers do not interact with the suppliers.

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Illustration 4-4 — Entity is a principal (cont’d)

The entity first evaluates the specified goods and concludes that the digital

content is the only specified good or service. Next, the entity considers

whether it controls the digital content before it is transferred to the customer.

The entity concludes that it controls the specified goods before they are

transferred because it has entered into a non-cancellable distribution

agreement that permits the entity to sell the digital content to its customers.

This conclusion differs from the entity’s conclusion in Illustration 4-3 because

that entity provided a platform to connect suppliers to customers and did not

have the ability to sell the suppliers’ goods. As part of this assessment, the

entity also considers the three indicators of control in the standard and makes

the following determinations that support its overall control evaluation:

• The entity is responsible for fulfilling the promise to the customer and the

entity takes responsibility for the acceptability of the digital content

• There is no inventory risk associated with digital content

• The entity has discretion to establish prices

The entity concludes that it is a principal for the digital content sold through its

website because it controls the content before it is transferred to the customer.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?The three indicators in IFRS 15.B37 are

similar to some of those included in legacy IFRS. However, the indicators in

IFRS 15 are based on the concepts of identifying performance obligations and

the transfer of control of goods and services. That is, under IFRS 15, an entity

must first identify the specified good or service and determine whether it

controls that specified good or service before evaluating the indicators. The

indicators serve as support for the entity’s control determination and are not a

replacement of it.

This is a change from IAS 18, under which an entity evaluated the indicators

in order to make its principal versus agent determination. In addition, IFRS 15

did not carry forward some indicators from IAS 18 (e.g., those relating to

exposure to credit risk and the form of the consideration as a commission).

In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB acknowledged that entities could reach

different conclusions under IFRS 15 than they did under IAS 18.

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As a result,

entities had to take a fresh look at their principal versus agent conclusions

under IFRS 15, focusing on their contracts and any terms that may influence

their assessment of control.

4.4.3 Recognising revenue as principal or agent (updated October 2018)

The determination of whether the entity is acting as a principal or an agent

affects the amount of revenue the entity recognises.

When the entity is the principal in the arrangement, the revenue recognised is

the gross amount to which the entity expects to be entitled. When the entity is

the agent, the revenue recognised is the net amount that the entity is entitled

to retain in return for its services as the agent. The entity’s fee or commission

may be the net amount of consideration that the entity retains after paying the

other party the consideration received in exchange for the goods or services to

be provided by that party.

After an entity determines whether it is the principal or the agent and the amount

of gross or net revenue that would be recognised, the entity recognises revenue

when or as it satisfies its performance obligation. An entity satisfies its

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performance obligation by transferring control of the specified good or service

underlying the performance obligation, either at a point in time or over time

(as discussed in section 7). That is, a principal would recognise revenue when

(or as) it transfers the specified good or service to the customer. An agent

would recognise revenue when its performance obligation to arrange for the

specified good or service is complete.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board noted that, in some contracts in which

the entity is the agent, control of specified goods or services promised by the

agent may transfer before the customer receives related goods or services

from the principal. For example, an entity might satisfy its promise to provide

customers with loyalty points when those points are transferred to the

customer if:

•

The entity’s promise is to provide loyalty points to customers when

the customer purchases goods or services from the entity.

•

The points entitle the customers to future discounted purchases with

another party (i.e., the points represent a material right to a future

discount).

•

The entity determines that it is an agent (i.e., its promise is to arrange for

the customers to be provided with points) and the entity does not control

those points (i.e., the specified good or service) before they are transferred

to the customer.

In contrast, if the points entitle the customers to future goods or services to

be provided by the entity, the entity may conclude it is not an agent. This is

because the entity’s promise is to provide those future goods or services and,

therefore, the entity controls both the points and the future goods or services

before they are transferred to the customer. In these cases, the entity’s

performance obligation may only be satisfied when the future goods or services

are provided.

In other cases, the points may entitle customers to choose between future

goods or services provided by either the entity or another party. For example,

many airlines allow loyalty programme members to redeem loyalty points for

goods or services provided by a partner (e.g., travel on another airline, hotel

accommodation). In this situation, the nature of the entity’s performance

obligation may not be known until the customer makes its choice. That is, until

the customer has chosen the goods or services to be provided (and, therefore,

whether the entity or the third party will provide those goods or services), the

entity is obliged to stand ready to deliver goods or services. Therefore, the

entity may not satisfy its performance obligation until it either delivers the

goods or services or is no longer obliged to stand ready. If the customer

subsequently chooses to receive the goods or services from another party,

the entity would need to consider whether it was acting as an agent and would,

therefore, only recognise revenue for a fee or commission that it received for

arranging the ultimate transaction between the customer and the third party.

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How we see it

The above discussion illustrates that control of specified goods or services

promised by an agent may transfer before the customer receives related

goods or services from the principal. An entity needs to assess each loyalty

programme in accordance with the principles of the principal versus agent

application guidance to determine if revenue would be reported on

a gross or net basis.

Although an entity may be able to transfer its obligation to provide its customer

specified goods or services, the standard says that such a transfer may not

always satisfy the performance obligation:

Extract from IFRS 15

B38. If another entity assumes the entity’s performance obligations and

contractual rights in the contract so that the entity is no longer obliged to

satisfy the performance obligation to transfer the specified good or service

to the customer (ie the entity is no longer acting as the principal), the entity

shall not recognise revenue for that performance obligation. Instead,

the entity shall evaluate whether to recognise revenue for satisfying a

performance obligation to obtain a contract for the other party (ie whether

the entity is acting as an agent).

4.4.4 Examples of principal versus agent considerations (updated September

2019)

The standard includes six examples to illustrate the principal versus agent

application guidance discussed above. We have extracted four of them below.

The standard includes the following example of when the specified good or

service (see section 4.4.1) is the underlying service, rather than the right to

obtain that service. The entity in this example is determined to be a principal:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 46A — Promise to provide goods or services (entity is a principal)

(IFRS 15.IE238A-IE238G)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to provide office

maintenance services. The entity and the customer define and agree on the

scope of the services and negotiate the price. The entity is responsible for

ensuring that the services are performed in accordance with the terms and

conditions in the contract. The entity invoices the customer for the agreed-

upon price on a monthly basis with 10-day payment terms.

The entity regularly engages third-party service providers to provide office

maintenance services to its customers. When the entity obtains a contract

from a customer, the entity enters into a contract with one of those service

providers, directing the service provider to perform office maintenance

services for the customer. The payment terms in the contracts with the

service providers are generally aligned with the payment terms in the entity’s

contracts with customers. However, the entity is obliged to pay the service

provider even if the customer fails to pay.

To determine whether the entity is a principal or an agent, the entity

identifies the specified good or service to be provided to the customer and

assesses whether it controls that good or service before the good or service

is transferred to the customer.

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Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

The entity observes that the specified services to be provided to the customer

are the office maintenance services for which the customer contracted,

and that no other goods or services are promised to the customer. While

the entity obtains a right to office maintenance services from the service

provider after entering into the contract with the customer, that right is not

transferred to the customer. That is, the entity retains the ability to direct

the use of, and obtain substantially all the remaining benefits from, that right.

For example, the entity can decide whether to direct the service provider to

provide the office maintenance services for that customer, or for another

customer, or at its own facilities. The customer does not have a right to direct

the service provider to perform services that the entity has not agreed to

provide. Therefore, the right to office maintenance services obtained by the

entity from the service provider is not the specified good or service in its

contract with the customer.

The entity concludes that it controls the specified services before they are

provided to the customer. The entity obtains control of a right to office

maintenance services after entering into the contract with the customer but

before those services are provided to the customer. The terms of the entity’s

contract with the service provider give the entity the ability to direct the

service provider to provide the specified services on the entity’s behalf (see

paragraph B35A(b)). In addition, the entity concludes that the following

indicators in paragraph B37 of IFRS 15 provide further evidence that the

entity controls the office maintenance services before they are provided

to the customer:

(a) the entity is primarily responsible for fulfilling the promise to provide

office maintenance services. Although the entity has hired a service

provider to perform the services promised to the customer, it is the entity

itself that is responsible for ensuring that the services are performed and

are acceptable to the customer (ie the entity is responsible for fulfilment

of the promise in the contract, regardless of whether the entity performs

the services itself or engages a third-party service provider to perform

the services).

(b) the entity has discretion in setting the price for the services to the

customer.

The entity observes that it does not commit itself to obtain the services from

the service provider before obtaining the contract with the customer. Thus,

the entity has mitigated inventory risk with respect to the office maintenance

services. Nonetheless, the entity concludes that it controls the office

maintenance services before they are provided to the customer on the basis

of the evidence in paragraph IE238E.

Thus, the entity is a principal in the transaction and recognises revenue in the

amount of consideration to which it is entitled from the customer in exchange

for the office maintenance services.

143 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The standard also includes the following example of when the specified good or

service is the right to obtain a service and not the underlying service itself. The

entity in this example is determined to be a principal:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 47 — Promise to provide goods or services (entity is a principal)

(IFRS 15.IE239-IE243)

An entity negotiates with major airlines to purchase tickets at reduced rates

compared with the price of tickets sold directly by the airlines to the public.

The entity agrees to buy a specific number of tickets and must pay for those

tickets regardless of whether it is able to resell them. The reduced rate paid

by the entity for each ticket purchased is negotiated and agreed in advance.

The entity determines the prices at which the airline tickets will be sold to its

customers. The entity sells the tickets and collects the consideration from

customers when the tickets are purchased.

The entity also assists the customers in resolving complaints with the service

provided by the airlines. However, each airline is responsible for fulfilling

obligations associated with the ticket, including remedies to a customer for

dissatisfaction with the service.

To determine whether the entity’s performance obligation is to provide the

specified goods or services itself (ie the entity is a principal) or to arrange

for those goods or services to be provided by another party (ie the entity is

an agent), the entity identifies the specified good or service to be provided to

the customer and assesses whether it controls that good or service before

the good or service is transferred to the customer. The entity concludes that,

with each ticket that it commits itself to purchase from the airline, it obtains

control of a right to fly on a specified flight (in the form of a ticket) that

the entity then transfers to one of its customers (see paragraph B35A(a)).

Consequently, the entity determines that the specified good or service to

be provided to its customer is that right (to a seat on a specific flight) that

the entity controls. The entity observes that no other goods or services are

promised to the customer.

The entity controls the right to each flight before it transfers that specified

right to one of its customers because the entity has the ability to direct the

use of that right by deciding whether to use the ticket to fulfil a contract

with a customer and, if so, which contract it will fulfil. The entity also has

the ability to obtain the remaining benefits from that right by either reselling

the ticket and obtaining all of the proceeds from the sale or, alternatively,

using the ticket itself.

The indicators in paragraphs B37(b)–(c) of IFRS 15 also provide relevant

evidence that the entity controls each specified right (ticket) before it is

transferred to the customer. The entity has inventory risk with respect to

the ticket because the entity committed itself to obtain the ticket from the

airline before obtaining a contract with a customer to purchase the ticket.

This is because the entity is obliged to pay the airline for that right regardless

of whether it is able to obtain a customer to resell the ticket to or whether it

can obtain a favourable price for the ticket. The entity also establishes the

price that the customer will pay for the specified ticket.

Thus, the entity concludes that it is a principal in the transactions with

customers. The entity recognises revenue in the gross amount of

consideration to which it is entitled in exchange for the tickets transferred

to the customers.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 144

In the following example, the entity also determines that the specified good or

service is the right to obtain a service and not the underlying service itself.

However, the entity in this example is determined to be an agent.

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 48 — Arranging for the provision of goods or services (entity is an

agent) (IFRS 15.IE244-IE248)

An entity sells vouchers that entitle customers to future meals at specified

restaurants. The sales price of the voucher provides the customer with

a significant discount when compared with the normal selling prices of the

meals (for example, a customer pays CU100 for a voucher that entitles the

customer to a meal at a restaurant that would otherwise cost CU200). The

entity does not purchase or commit itself to purchase vouchers in advance

of the sale of a voucher to a customer; instead, it purchases vouchers only as

they are requested by the customers. The entity sells the vouchers through

its website and the vouchers are non-refundable.

The entity and the restaurants jointly determine the prices at which the

vouchers will be sold to customers. Under the terms of its contracts with

the restaurants, the entity is entitled to 30 per cent of the voucher price

when it sells the voucher.

The entity also assists the customers in resolving complaints about the meals

and has a buyer satisfaction programme. However, the restaurant is

responsible for fulfilling obligations associated with the voucher, including

remedies to a customer for dissatisfaction with the service.

To determine whether the entity is a principal or an agent, the entity

identifies the specified good or service to be provided to the customer and

assess whether it controls the specified good or service before that good or

service is transferred to the customer.

A customer obtains a voucher for the restaurant that it selects. The entity

does not engage the restaurants to provide meals to customers on the

entity’s behalf as described in the indicator in paragraph B37(a) of IFRS 15.

Therefore, the entity observes that the specified good or service to be

provided to the customer is the right to a meal (in the form of a voucher) at

a specified restaurant or restaurants, which the customer purchases and then

can use itself or transfer to another person. The entity also observes that

no other goods or services (other than the vouchers) are promised to the

customers.

The entity concludes that it does not control the voucher (right to a meal) at

any time. In reaching this conclusion, the entity principally considers the

following:

(a) the vouchers are created only at the time that they are transferred to

the customers and, thus, do not exist before that transfer. Therefore,

the entity does not at any time have the ability to direct the use of the

vouchers, or obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from the

vouchers, before they are transferred to customers.

(b) the entity neither purchases, nor commits itself to purchase, vouchers

before they are sold to customers. The entity also has no responsibility

to accept any returned vouchers. Therefore, the entity does not have

inventory risk with respect to the vouchers as described in the indicator

in paragraph B37(b) of IFRS 15.

145 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

Thus, the entity concludes that it is an agent with respect to the vouchers.

The entity recognises revenue in the net amount of consideration to which

the entity will be entitled in exchange for arranging for the restaurants to

provide vouchers to customers for the restaurants’ meals, which is the

30 per cent commission it is entitled to upon the sale of each voucher.

Frequently asked questions

Question 4-8: How would an entity determine whether it is a principal or an

agent in a transaction for a specified good for which it only takes title

momentarily or never has physical possession?

An entity’s determination of whether it is a principal or an agent in this type of

transaction requires significant judgement and careful consideration of the

facts and circumstances. Entities may enter into contracts with third-party

vendors (the vendors) to provide goods or services to be sold through their

sales channels to their customers. In these arrangements, the entity may take

legal title to the good only momentarily before the good is transferred to the

customer, such as in scan-based trading or ’flash title’ contracts (e.g., vendor is

responsible for stocking, rotating and otherwise managing the product until the

final point of sale). Alternatively, the entity may never take physical possession

or legal title to the good (e.g., ’drop shipment arrangements’ when goods are

shipped directly from a vendor to the customer). In these situations, the entity

needs to carefully evaluate whether it obtains control of the specified good and,

therefore, is the principal in the transaction with the end-consumer. When

evaluating the control principle and the principal indicators provided in the

standard, we believe some questions an entity may consider when making this

judgement could include:

• Does the entity take title to the goods at any point in the order-to-delivery

process? If not, why?

• Is the vendor the party that the customer will hold responsible for the

acceptability of the product (e.g., handling of complaints and returns)? If

so, why?

• Does the entity have a return-to-vendor agreement with the vendor or

have a history of returning goods to the vendor after a customer returns

the good(s)? If so, why?

• Does the vendor have discretion in establishing the price for the goods

(e.g., setting the floor or ceiling)? If so, why?

• Is the vendor responsible for the risk of loss or damage (e.g., shrinkage)

while the goods are in the entity’s store? If so, why?

• Does the vendor have the contractual right to take back the goods

delivered to the entity and, if so, has the vendor exercised that right in

situations other than when the goods were at the end of their useful

lives?

• Can the entity move goods between their stores or relocate goods within

their stores without first obtaining permission from the vendor? If not,

why?

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 146

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

• Does the entity have any further obligation to the customer after

remitting the customer’s order to the vendor? If not, why?

• Once a customer order is placed, can the entity direct the product to

another entity or prevent the product from being transferred to the

customer? If not, why?

An SEC staff member said in a speech that the application of the principal-

versus-agent application guidance can be especially challenging when an entity

never obtains physical possession of a good. While noting that the staff has

seen these types of fact patterns with conclusions of both principal and agent,

the staff member further discussed certain facts and circumstances of a

registrant consultation with OCA in which the SEC staff did not object to a

principal determination in a transaction in which certain specialised goods were

shipped directly to the end-customer by the vendor (not the registrant). In

reaching this conclusion, the SEC staff member reiterated that the

determination requires consideration of the definition of control in the

standard, which often includes consideration of the indicators in IFRS 15.B37.

However, inventory risk is only one of those indicators and it is possible that

physical possession will not coincide with control of a specified good.

171

Understanding the business purpose and rationale for the contractual terms

between the vendor and the entity may help the entity assess whether it

controls the specified goods prior to the transfer to the end-consumer and is,

therefore, the principal in the sale to the end-consumer.

Question 4-9: How would entities determine the presentation of amounts

billed to customers (e.g., shipping and handling, expenses or cost

reimbursements and taxes) under the standards (i.e., as revenue or as a

reduction of costs)? [TRG meeting 18 July 2014 – Agenda paper no. 2]

TRG members generally agreed that the standard is clear that any amounts

not collected on behalf of third parties would be included in the transaction

price (i.e., revenue). As discussed in section 5, IFRS 15.47 says that “the

transaction price is the amount of consideration to which an entity expects

to be entitled in exchange for transferring promised goods or services to

a customer, excluding amounts collected on behalf of third parties (for

171

Remarks by Sheri L. York, Professional Accounting Fellow, SEC Office of the Chief

Accountant, 10 December 2018. Refer to the SEC website.

147 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

example, some sales taxes)”. Therefore, if the amounts were earned by the

entity in fulfilling its performance obligations, the amounts are included in the

transaction price and recorded as revenue.

Shipping and handling

The appropriate presentation of amounts billed to customers for shipping and

handling activities would depend on whether they entity is a principal or an

agent in the shipping arrangement (see Question 10-8 in section 10.3 for

further discussion on presentation of shipping and handling costs incurred

by the entity).

Expense or cost reimbursements

Many service providers routinely incur incidental expenses, commonly

referred to as ‘out-of-pocket’ expenses, in the course of conducting their

normal operations. Those expenses often include, but are not limited

to, airfare, other travel-related costs (such as car rentals and hotel

accommodation) and telecommunications charges. The entity (i.e., the

service provider) and the customer may agree that the customer will

reimburse the entity for the actual amount of such expenses incurred.

Alternatively, the parties may negotiate a single fixed fee that is intended

to compensate the service provider for both professional services rendered

and out-of-pocket expenses incurred.

Out-of-pocket expenses are often costs incurred by an entity in fulfilling its

performance obligation(s) (i.e., the out-of-pocket expenses are fulfilment

costs) and do not transfer a good or service to the customer. In these

situations, reimbursement for such costs generally should be included in

the entity’s estimate of the transaction price and recognised as revenue when

(or as) the performance obligation(s) is (are) satisfied, even if the entity is

reimbursed at ‘cost’ (i.e., at zero margin). Alternatively, if an entity concludes

that the costs

transfer a good or service to the customer, it should

consider the principal-versus-agent application guidance when determining

whether reimbursement amounts received from its customer need to be

recorded on a gross or net basis.

In some cases it may be appropriate to recognise the reimbursement as

revenue when the applicable expense is incurred. That is, an entity may

not have to estimate out-of-pocket expenses in its determination of the

transaction price at contract inception. This was discussed in a US Private

Company Council meeting under US GAAP. The FASB staff observed in the

related staff paper the following situations in which this would be the case:

172

• The entity is an agent as it relates to the specified good or service

identified (see section 4.4). That is, in cases in which the entity is an

agent and the reimbursement is equal to the cost, the net effect on

revenue would be zero and, therefore, no estimation would be required.

172

FASB staff Private Company Council Memo, Reimbursement of Out-of-Pocket Expenses,

dated 26 June 2018. Refer to the FASB's website.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 148

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

• The variable consideration is constrained (see section 5.2.3). That is, if

a portion of the transaction price related to reimbursements of out-of-

pocket expenses is constrained, an entity would not include an estimate

in the transaction price for that amount until it becomes highly probable

that a significant revenue reversal will not occur, which may be when

the underlying out-of-pocket expenses are incurred in some cases. For

example, an entity may not be able to make reliable estimates of

expenses and the related reimbursements that will not be subject to

a significant revenue reversal due to a lack of historical evidence.

• The variable consideration relates specifically to a performance

obligation or a distinct good or service in a series and the entity meets

the variable consideration exception (see section 6.3).

• The entity qualifies to apply the ‘right to invoice’ practical expedient (see

section 7.1.4.A).

• The entity applies a costs incurred measure of progress when recognising

revenue for over-time performance obligations (see section 7.1.4). That

is, if an entity selects a costs incurred method, the timing of the costs

being incurred and the revenue recognition associated with those costs

would align.

Taxes or other assessments

Several TRG members noted that this would require entities to evaluate taxes

collected in all jurisdictions in which they operate to determine whether a tax

is levied on the entity or the customer. TRG members generally agreed that

an entity would apply the principal versus agent application guidance when it

is not clear whether the amounts are collected on behalf of third parties. This

could result in amounts billed to a customer being recorded as an offset to

costs incurred (i.e., on a net basis), even when the amounts are not collected

on behalf of third parties.

Question 4-10: How should an entity allocate the transaction price in a

contract with multiple performance obligations in which the entity acts

as both a principal and an agent?

See response to Question 6-7 in section 6.2.

149 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

FASB differences

The FASB’s standard allows an entity to make an accounting policy choice

to present revenue net of certain types of taxes collected from a customer

(including sales, use, value-added and some excise taxes). The FASB

included this policy choice to address a concern expressed by stakeholders

in the US as to the operability of the requirements under US GAAP. IFRS 15

does not provide a similar accounting policy choice for the following reasons:

it would reduce comparability; the requirements in IFRS 15 are consistent

with those in legacy IFRS;

173

and it would create an exception to the five-

step model.

174

Since entities do not have a similar accounting policy choice

under IFRS, differences could arise between IFRS and US GAAP.

Another difference relates to determining the transaction price when an

entity is the principal, but is unable to determine the ultimate price charged

to the customer. In the Basis for Conclusions on its May 2016 amendments,

the FASB stated that, if uncertainty related to the transaction price is

not ultimately expected to be resolved, it would not meet the definition

of variable consideration and, therefore, should not be included in the

transaction price.

175

Stakeholders had raised a question about how an entity

that is a principal would estimate the amount of revenue to recognise if

it were not aware of the amounts being charged to end-customers by an

intermediary that is an agent. The IASB did not specifically consider how

the transaction price requirements would be applied in these situations

(i.e., when an entity that is a principal does not know and expects not to

know the price charged to its customer by an agent), but concluded in

the Basis for Conclusions that an entity that is a principal would generally

be able to apply judgement and determine the consideration to which it is

entitled using all information available to it.

176

Accordingly, we believe that

it is possible that IFRS and US GAAP entities will reach different conclusions

on estimating the gross transaction price in these situations.

4.5 Consignment arrangements

The standard provides specific application guidance for a promise to deliver

goods on a consignment basis to other parties. See section 7.4.

4.6 Customer options for additional goods or services (updated

September 2019)

Many sales contracts give customers the option to acquire additional goods or

services. These additional goods or services may be priced at a discount or

may even be free of charge. Options to acquire additional goods or services at

a discount can come in many forms, including sales incentives, volume-tiered

pricing structures, customer award credits (e.g., frequent flyer points) or

contract renewal options (e.g., waiver of certain fees, reduced future rates).

As discussed in section 5.8, the existence of a non-refundable upfront fee may

indicate that the contract includes a renewal option for future goods or services

at a reduced price (e.g., if the customer renews the contract without the

payment of an additional upfront fee). An entity would need to evaluate

the renewal option to determine whether it is a material right.

173

IAS 18.8.

174

IFRS 15.BC188D.

175

FASB ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus

Agent Considerations (March 2016), paragraph BC38.

176

IFRS 15.BC385Z.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 150

When an entity grants a customer the option to acquire additional goods or

services, that option is only a separate performance obligation if it provides

a material right to the customer that the customer would not receive without

entering into the contract (e.g., a discount that exceeds the range of discounts

typically given for those goods or services to that class of customer in that

geographical area or market). Refer to Question 4-15 below for further

discussion on the evaluation of class of customer. If the option provides a

material right to the customer, the customer has, in effect, paid in advance for

future goods or services. As such, the entity recognises revenue when those

future goods or services are transferred or when the option expires. In the Basis

for Conclusions, the IASB indicated that the purpose of this requirement is to

identify and account for options that customers are paying for (often implicitly)

as part of the current transaction.

177

The Board did not provide any bright lines as to what constitutes a ’material’

right. However, the standard requires that an option to purchase additional

goods or services at their stand-alone selling prices does not provide a material

right and, instead, is a marketing offer. This is the case even if the customer

has obtained the option only as a result of entering into a previous contract.

However, an option to purchase additional goods or services in the future at the

current stand-alone selling price could be a material right if prices are highly

likely to significantly increase. This could also be the case if a renewal option at

the current stand-alone selling price is offered for an extended period of time

and the stand-alone selling price for the product is highly likely to significantly

increase, depending on the facts and circumstances of the contract. This is

because the customer is being offered a discount on future goods or services

compared to what others will have to pay in the future as a result of entering

into the previous contract. The standard states that this is the case even if the

option can only be exercised because the customer entered into the earlier

transaction. An entity that has made a marketing offer accounts for it in

accordance with IFRS 15 only when the customer exercises the option to

purchase the additional goods or services.

178

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

Legacy IFRS did not provide application guidance on how to distinguish between

an option and a marketing offer (i.e., as an expense). Nor did it address how to

account for options that provide a material right. As a result, some entities

may have effectively accounted for such options as marketing offers. IFRS 15’s

requirements on the amount of the transaction price to be allocated to the

option differ significantly from previous practice due to the lack of guidance

in legacy IFRS (see section 6.1.5).

How we see it

Significant judgement may be required to determine whether a customer

option represents a material right. This determination is important because

it affects the accounting and disclosures for the contract at inception and

throughout the life of the contract.

177

IFRS 15.BC386.

178

IFRS 15.B41.

151 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The standard includes the following example to illustrate the determination of

whether an option represents a material right (see section 6.1.5 for a discussion

of the measurement of options that are separate performance obligations):

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 49 — Option that provides the customer with a material right

(discount voucher) (IFRS 15.IE250-IE253)

An entity enters into a contract for the sale of Product A for CU100. As part

of the contract, the entity gives the customer a 40 per cent discount voucher

for any future purchases up to CU100 in the next 30 days. The entity intends

to offer a 10 per cent discount on all sales during the next 30 days as part of

a seasonal promotion. The 10 per cent discount cannot be used in addition to

the 40 per cent discount voucher.

Because all customers will receive a 10 per cent discount on purchases

during the next 30 days, the only discount that provides the customer with

a material right is the discount that is incremental to that 10 per cent (ie the

additional 30 per cent discount). The entity accounts for the promise to

provide the incremental discount as a performance obligation in the contract

for the sale of Product A.

To estimate the stand-alone selling price of the discount voucher in

accordance with paragraph B42 of IFRS 15, the entity estimates an 80 per

cent likelihood that a customer will redeem the voucher and that a customer

will, on average, purchase CU50 of additional products. Consequently,

the entity’s estimated stand-alone selling price of the discount voucher is

CU12 (CU50 average purchase price of additional products × 30 per cent

incremental discount × 80 per cent likelihood of exercising the option).

The stand-alone selling prices of Product A and the discount voucher and

the resulting allocation of the CU100 transaction price are as follows:

Performance

obligations

Stand-alone

selling price

Product A

100

Discount voucher

Total

112

Allocated

transaction price

Product A

(CU100 ÷ CU112 × CU100)

Discount voucher

(CU12 ÷ CU112 × CU100)

Total

100

The entity allocates CU89 to Product A and recognises revenue for Product A

when control transfers. The entity allocates CU11 to the discount voucher

and recognises revenue for the voucher when the customer redeems it for

goods or services or when it expires.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 152

Evaluating whether an option provides a material right may be more complex

when the stand-alone selling price of the good or service is highly variable, as

illustrated below:

Illustration 4-5 — Evaluating a customer option when the stand-alone

selling price is highly variable

Technology entity Y enters into a contract with Customer Z for a perpetual

licence of software A, with one year of post-contract support (PCS). The

contract also includes an option to purchase additional licences of software A

at 40% off the list price.

The entity does not sell software A separately, but it sells PCS separately in the

form of renewals that are consistently priced at 20% of the net licence fee.

Assume that Technology entity Y uses the residual method to estimate the

stand-alone selling price of the perpetual licence for software A (see

section 6.1.2). Also assume that the price Technology entity Y charges for the

bundle of the perpetual licence and PCS is highly variable. That is because the

price Technology entity Y charges to customers in the same class and same

market as Customer Z who have not made prior purchases ranges from the list

price to a discounted price of up to 70% off the list price for the bundle. Assume

that the entity has appropriately stratified its contracts/customers to evaluate

the range of discounts and has a sufficient amount of transactions to support

that this is the range of discounts it offers.

Since the 40% discount Technology entity Y offered to Customer Z is within the

range of discounts it typically offers to customers in the same class as

Customer Z, Technology entity Y concludes that this option does not represent

a material right.

Frequently asked questions

Question 4-11: Would entities consider only the current transaction or

would they consider past and future transactions with the same customer

when determining whether an option for additional goods or services

provides the customer with a material right? [TRG meeting 31 October

2014 – Agenda paper no. 6]

TRG members generally agreed that entities should consider all relevant

transactions with a customer (i.e., current, past and future transactions),

including those that provide accumulating incentives, such as loyalty

programmes, when determining whether an option represents a material

right. That is, the evaluation is not solely performed in relation to the current

transaction.

Question 4-12: Is the material right evaluation solely a quantitative

evaluation or does the evaluation also consider qualitative factors?

[TRG meeting 31 October 2014 – Agenda paper no. 6]

TRG members generally agreed that the evaluation should consider both

quantitative and qualitative factors (e.g., what a new customer would pay

for the same service, the availability and pricing of competitors’ service

alternatives, whether the average customer life indicates that the fee

provides an incentive for customers to remain beyond the stated contract

term, whether the right accumulates). This is because a customer’s

perspective on what constitutes a ‘material right’ may consider qualitative

factors.

This is consistent with the notion that when identifying promised

goods or services in Step 2, an entity considers reasonable expectations

of the customer that the entity will transfer a good or service to it.

153 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 4-13: How would an entity distinguish between a contract that

contains an option to purchase additional goods or services and a contract

that includes variable consideration (see section 5.2) based on a variable

quantity (e.g., a usage-based fee)? [TRG meeting 9 November 2015 –

Agenda paper no. 48]

Entities have found it challenging to distinguish between a contract that

includes customer options to purchase additional goods or services and one

that includes variable consideration based on a variable quantity (e.g., a

usage-based fee). This is because, under both types of contracts, the ultimate

quantity of goods or services to be transferred to the customer is often

unknown at contact inception. TRG members generally agreed that this

determination requires judgement and consideration of the facts and

circumstances. They also generally agreed that the TRG agenda paper on this

question provides a framework that helps entities to make this determination.

This determination is important because it affects the accounting for

the contract at inception and throughout the life of the contract, as well

as disclosures. If an entity concludes that a customer option for additional

goods or services provides a material right, the option itself is deemed to

be a performance obligation in the contract, but the underlying goods or

services are not accounted for until the option is exercised (as discussed below

in Question 4-14). As a result, the entity is required to allocate a portion

of the transaction price to the material right at contract inception and to

recognise that revenue when or as the option is exercised or the option

expires. If an entity, instead, concludes that an option for additional goods

or services is not a material right, there is no accounting for the option and

no accounting for the underlying optional goods or services until those

subsequent purchases occur.

However, if the contract includes variable consideration (rather than a

customer option), an entity has to estimate at contract inception the variable

consideration expected over the life of the contract and update that estimate

each reporting period (subject to the constraint on variable consideration)

(see section 5.2). There are also more disclosures required for variable

consideration (e.g., the requirement to disclose the remaining transaction

price for unsatisfied performance obligations) (see section 10.5.1) than for

options that are not determined to be material rights.

The TRG agenda paper explained that the first step (in determining whether

a contract involving variable quantities of goods or services should be

accounted for as a contract containing customer options or variable

consideration) is for the entity to determine the nature of its promise in

providing goods or services to the customer and the rights and obligations

of each party.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 154

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

In a contract in which the variable quantity of goods or services results in

variable consideration, the nature of the entity’s promise is to transfer to

the customer an overall service. In providing this overall service, an entity

may perform individual tasks or activities. At contract inception, the entity is

presently obliged by the terms and conditions of the contract to transfer all

promised goods or services provided under the contract and the customer

is obliged to pay for those promised goods or services. This is because the

customer entered into a contract that obliges the entity to transfer those

goods or services. The customer’s subsequent actions to utilise the service

affect the measurement of revenue (in the form of variable consideration),

but do not oblige the entity to provide additional distinct goods or services

beyond those promised in the contract.

For example, consider a contract between a transaction processor and

a customer in which the processor will process all of the customer’s

transactions in exchange for a fee paid for each transaction processed.

The ultimate quantity of transactions that will be processed is not known.

The nature of the entity’s promise is to provide the customer with continuous

access to the processing platform so that submitted transactions are

processed. By entering into the contract, the customer has made a

purchasing decision that obliges the entity to provide continuous access

to the transaction processing platform. The consideration paid by the

customer results from events (i.e., additional transactions being submitted

for processing to the processor) that occur after (or as) the entity transfers

the payment processing service. The customer’s actions do not oblige

the processor to provide additional distinct goods or services because the

processor is already obliged (starting at contract inception) to process all

transactions submitted to it.

Another example described in the TRG agenda paper of contracts that may

include variable consideration was related to certain IT outsourcing contracts.

Under this type of contract (similar to the transaction processing contract,

discussed above), the entity provides continuous delivery of a service over

the contract term and the amount of service provided is variable.

Example of variable consideration

An entity enters into a 10-year IT outsourcing arrangement with a

customer in which it provides continuous delivery of outsourced activities

over the contract term. The entity provides server capacity, manages the

customer’s software portfolio and runs an IT help desk. The total monthly

invoice is calculated based on the units consumed for each activity. For

example, the billings might be based on millions of instructions per second

of computing power, the number of software applications used or the

number of employees supported. The price per unit differs for each type of

activity.

155 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of variable consideration (cont’d)

At contract inception, it is unknown how many outsourced activities the

entity will perform for the customer throughout the life of the contract.

The question that arises is whether the customer makes optional

purchases when it sends activities to the entity to be performed or whether

its use of the service affects the measurement of revenue (in the form of

variable consideration).

The conclusion in the TRG agenda paper was that it is likely that this

contract contains variable consideration because of the nature of the

entity’s promise. The customer is paying for the entity to stand ready to

perform in an outsourcing capacity on any given day. The customer does

not make a separate purchasing decision each time it sends a unit for

processing. Instead, the customer made its purchasing decision when it

entered into the outsourcing contract with the entity. Therefore, the

customer’s actions to use the service also do not oblige the entity to

provide any additional distinct goods or services.

In contrast, when an entity provides a customer option, the nature of its

promise is to provide the quantity of goods or services specified in the

contract, if any, and a right for the customer to choose the amount of

additional distinct goods or services the customer will purchase. That is,

the entity is not obliged to provide any additional distinct goods or services

until the customer exercises the option. The customer has a contractual right

that allows it to choose the amount of additional distinct goods or services

to purchase, but the customer has to make a separate purchasing decision

to obtain those additional distinct goods or services. Prior to the customer’s

exercise of that right, the entity is not obliged to provide (nor does it have a

right to consideration for transferring) those goods or services.

The TRG agenda paper included the following example of a contract that

includes a customer option (rather than variable consideration):

Example of customer option that is not a material right

Entity B enters into a contract to provide 100 widgets to Customer Y in

return for consideration of CU10 per widget. Each widget is a distinct good

transferred at a point in time. The contract also gives Customer Y the right

to purchase additional widgets at the stand-alone selling price of CU10 per

widget. Therefore, the quantity that may be purchased by Customer Y is

variable.

The conclusion in the TRG agenda paper was that, while the quantity of

widgets that may be purchased is variable, the transaction price for the

existing contract is fixed at CU1,000 [100 widgets x CU10/widget].

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 156

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of customer option that is not a material right (cont’d)

That is, the transaction price only includes the consideration for the 100

widgets specified in the contract and the customer’s decision to purchase

additional widgets is an option. While Entity B may be required to deliver

additional widgets in the future, Entity B is not legally obliged to provide the

additional widgets until Customer Y exercises the option. In this example, the

option is accounted for as a separate contract because there is no material

right, since the pricing of the option is at the stand-alone selling price of the

widgets.

The TRG agenda paper also included the following example of a contract in

which the variable quantity of goods or services includes a customer option:

Example of customer option

A supplier enters into a five-year master supply arrangement in which

the supplier is obliged to produce and sell parts to a customer at the

customer’s request. That is, the supplier is not obliged to transfer any parts

until the customer submits a purchase order. In addition, the customer is not

obliged to purchase any parts; however, it is highly likely it will do so because

the part is required to manufacture the customer’s product and it is not

practical to obtain parts from multiple suppliers. Each part is determined to

be a distinct good that transfers to the customer at a point in time.

The conclusion in the TRG agenda paper was that the nature of the promise

in this example is the delivery of parts (and not a service of standing ready to

produce and sell parts). That is, the contract provides the customer with a

right to choose the quantity of additional distinct goods (i.e., it provides a

customer option), rather than a right to use the services for which control to

the customer has (or is currently being) transferred (such as in the

transaction processor example above). Similarly, the supplier is not obliged

to transfer any parts until the customer submits the purchase order (another

important factor in distinguishing a customer option from variable

consideration). In contrast, in the other fact patterns, the supplier is obliged

to make the promised services available to the customer without any

additional decisions made by the customer.

The TRG agenda paper contrasted this example with other contracts that

may include a stand-ready obligation (e.g., a customer’s use of a health

club). When the customer submits a purchase order under the master supply

arrangement, it is contracting for a specific number of distinct goods, which

creates new performance obligations for the supplier. In contrast, a

customer using services in a health club is using services that the health club

is already obliged to provide under the present contract. That is, there are

no new obligations arising from the customer’s usage.

157 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

The TRG agenda paper also included the following example of a contract in

which the variable quantity of goods or services results in variable

consideration:

Example of variable consideration

Entity A enters into a contract to provide equipment to Customer X. The

equipment is a single performance obligation transferred at a point in time.

Entity A charges Customer X based on its usage of the equipment at a

fixed rate per unit of consumption. The contract has no minimum payment

guarantees. Customer X is not contractually obliged to use the equipment.

However, Entity A is contractually obliged to transfer the equipment to

Customer X.

The conclusion in the TRG agenda paper was that the usage of

the equipment by Customer X is a variable quantity that affects the

amount of consideration owed to Entity A. It does not affect Entity A’s

performance obligation, which is to transfer the piece of equipment.

That is, Entity A has performed by transferring the distinct good.

Customer X’s actions, which result in payment to Entity A, occur after the

equipment has been transferred and do not require Entity A to provide

additional goods or services.

Question 4-14: When, if ever, would an entity consider the goods or

services underlying a customer option as a separate performance

obligation? [TRG meeting 9 November 2015 – Agenda paper no. 48]

TRG members generally agreed that an entity does not need to identify the

additional goods or services underlying the option as promised goods or

services (or performance obligations) if there are no contractual penalties

(e.g., termination fees, monetary penalties for not meeting contractual

minimums), even if it believes that it is virtually certain that a customer

will exercise its option for additional goods or services. Only the option is

assessed to determine whether it represents a material right (and accounted

for as a performance obligation). As a result, any consideration that would

be received in return for optional goods or services is not included in the

transaction price at contract inception. The TRG agenda paper included the

following example of a contract in which it is virtually certain that a customer

will exercise its option for additional goods or services:

Example of customer option with no contractual penalties

An entity sells equipment and consumables, both of which are determined

to be distinct goods that are recognised at a point in time. The stand-alone

selling price of the equipment and each consumable is CU10,000 and

CU100, respectively. The equipment costs CU8,000 and each consumable

costs CU60. The entity sells the equipment for CU6,000 (i.e., at a 40%

discount on its stand-alone selling price) with a customer option to

purchase each consumable for CU100 (i.e., equal to its stand-alone selling

price). There are no contractual minimums, but the entity estimates

the customer will purchase 200 parts over the next two years. This

is an exclusive contract in which the customer cannot purchase the

consumables from any other vendors during the contract term.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 158

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of customer option with no contractual penalties (cont’d)

TRG members generally agreed that the consumables underlying each

option would not be considered part of the contract. Furthermore, the

option does not represent a material right because it is priced at the stand-

alone selling price for the consumable. This is the case even though the

customer is compelled to exercise its option for the consumables because

the equipment cannot function without the consumables and the contract

includes an exclusivity clause that requires the customer to acquire the

consumables only from the entity. Accordingly, the transaction price is

CU6,000 and it is entirely attributable to the equipment. This would result

in a loss for the entity of CU2,000 when it transfers control of the

equipment to the customer.

However, contractual minimums may represent fixed consideration in a

contract, even if the contract also contains optional purchases. For example,

an MSA may set minimum purchase quantities that the entity is obliged to

provide, but any quantities above the minimum may require the customer

to make a separate purchasing decision (i.e., exercise a customer option).

If contractual penalties exist (e.g., termination fees, monetary penalties

assessed) for not meeting contractual minimums, it may be appropriate to

include some or all of the goods or services underlying customer options

as part of the contract at inception. This is because the penalty effectively

creates a minimum purchase obligation for the goods or services that would

be purchased if the penalty were enforced.

Example of customer option with contractual penalties

Consider the same facts as in the example above, except that the customer

will incur a penalty if it does not purchase at least 200 consumables. That

is, the customer will be required to repay some or all of the CU4,000

discount provided on the equipment. Per the contract terms, the penalty

decreases as each consumable is purchased at a rate of CU20 per

consumable.

The conclusion in the TRG agenda paper was that the penalty is

substantive and it effectively creates a minimum purchase obligation. As a

result, the entity concludes that the minimum number of consumables

required to avoid the penalty would be evidence of enforceable rights and

obligations. The entity would then calculate the transaction price as

CU26,000 [(200 consumables x CU100/consumable) + CU6,000 (the

selling price of the equipment)]. Furthermore, the conclusion in the

TRG agenda paper was that, if the customer failed to purchase

200 consumables, the entity accounts for the resulting penalty as a

contract modification.

159 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 4-15: How should an entity consider the class of customer when

evaluating whether a customer option is a material right? [18 April 2016

FASB TRG meeting; agenda paper no. 54]

FASB TRG members expressed diverse views on how an entity should

consider ’class of customer’ when determining whether a customer option

to acquire additional goods or services represents a material right. However,

they generally agreed that, in making this evaluation, an entity first

determines whether the customer option exists independently of the existing

contract. That is, would the entity offer the same pricing to a similar

customer independent of a prior contract with the entity? If the pricing

is independent, the option is considered a marketing offer and there is

no material right. FASB TRG members also generally agreed that it is likely

that the determination will require an entity to exercise significant judgement

and consider all facts and circumstances.

As discussed above, IFRS 15.B40 states that when an entity grants a

customer the option to acquire additional goods or services, that option

is a separate performance obligation if it provides a material right that

the customer would not receive without entering into the contract (e.g., a

discount that exceeds the range of discounts typically given for those goods

or services to that class of customer in that region or market). Furthermore,

IFRS 15.B41 states that an option to purchase additional goods or services at

their stand-alone selling prices does not provide a material right and instead

is a marketing offer. The FASB staff noted in the TRG agenda paper that

these requirements are intended to make clear that a customer option to

acquire additional goods or services would not give rise to a material right if

a customer could execute a separate contract to obtain the goods or services

at the same price. That is, customer options that would exist independently

of an existing contract with a customer do not constitute performance

obligations in that existing contract.

The TRG agenda paper provided several examples of the FASB staff’s views

on this topic, including the following:

Example of class of customer evaluation

Retailer owns and operates several electronic stores and currently

provides customers who purchase a 50-inch television with a coupon for

50% off the purchase of a stereo system. The coupon must be redeemed at

one of Retailer’s stores and is valid for one year. Retailer has never offered

a discount of this magnitude to a customer that does not purchase a

television (or another item of similar value).

Customer A purchases a 50-inch television from Retailer. At the time

of purchase, Customer A receives a coupon for 50% off a stereo system. In

evaluating whether the 50% discount provided to Customer A exists

independently of its existing contract to purchase a television, Retailer

needs to compare the discount offered to Customer A (50%) with the

discount typically offered to other customers independent of a prior

contract (purchase) with Retailer. For customers that do not purchase a

50-inch television, the only promotion Retailer is running on the stereo

system is offering a 5% off coupon to all customers walking into the store.

It would not be appropriate for Retailer to compare the discount offered to

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of class of customer evaluation (cont’d)

Customer A with a discount offered to another customer that also

purchased a 50-inch television. This is because the objective of the

requirements in IFRS 15.B40-B41 is to determine whether a customer

option exists independently of an existing contract with a customer.

Retailer determines that the discount offered to Customer A is not

comparable to the discount typically offered to customers without a prior

contract (purchase). Rather, Customer A is receiving an incremental

discount that it would not have received had it not entered into a contract

to purchase a 50-inch television. The incremental discount provided to

Customer A represents a material right.

Question 4-16: Should volume rebates and/or discounts on goods or

services be accounted for as variable consideration or as customer options

to acquire additional goods or services at a discount?

It depends on whether rebate or discount programme is applied

retrospectively or prospectively.

Generally, if a volume rebate or discount is applied prospectively, we believe

the rebate or discount would be accounted for as a customer option (not

variable consideration). This is because the consideration for the goods or

services in the present contract is not contingent upon or affected by any

future purchases. Rather, the discounts available from the rebate programme

affect the price of future purchases. Entities need to evaluate whether the

volume rebate or discount provides the customer with an option to purchase

goods or services in the future at a discount that represents a material right

(and is, therefore, accounted for as a performance obligation) (see

Question 4-17 below).

However, we believe a volume rebate or discount that is applied

retrospectively is accounted for as variable consideration (see section 5.2).

This is because the final price of each good or service sold depends upon the

customer’s total purchases that are subject to the rebate programme. That is,

the consideration is contingent upon the occurrence or non-occurrence of

future events. This view is consistent with Example 24 in the standard (which

is extracted in full in section 5.2.1).

Entities should keep in mind that they need to evaluate whether contract

terms, other than those specific to the rebate or discount programme, create

variable consideration that needs to be separately evaluated (e.g., if the

goods subject to the rebate programme are also sold with a right of return).

161 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 4-17: How should an entity consider whether prospective volume

discounts determined to be customer options are material rights?

[FASB TRG meeting 18 April 2016 - Agenda paper no. 54]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that in making this evaluation, similar

to the discussion above in Question 4-16, an entity would first evaluate

whether the option exists independently of the existing contract. That is,

would the entity offer the same pricing to a similar high-volume customer

independent of a prior contract with the entity? If yes, it indicates that the

volume discount is not a material right, as it is not incremental to the discount

typically offered to a similar high-volume customer. If the entity typically

charges a higher price to a similar customer, it may indicate that the volume

discount is a material right as the discount is incremental.

The TRG agenda paper included the following example:

Example of volume discounts

Entity enters into a long-term master supply arrangement with Customer A

to provide an unspecified volume of non-customised parts. The price of the

parts in subsequent years is dependent upon Customer A’s purchases in

the current year. That is, Entity charges Customer A CU1.00 per part in

year one and if Customer A purchases more than 100,000 parts, the year

two price will be CU0.90 per part.

When determining whether the contract between Entity and Customer A

includes a material right, Entity first evaluates whether the option provided

to Customer A exists independently of the existing contract. To do this,

Entity compares the discount offered to Customer A with the discount

typically offered to a similar high-volume customer that receives a

discount independent of a prior contract with Entity. Such a similar

customer could be Customer B who places a single order with Entity for

105,000 parts. Comparing the price offered to Customer A in year two

with offers to other customers that also receive pricing that is contingent

on prior purchases would not help Entity determine whether Customer A

would have been offered the year two price had it not entered into the

original contract.

It is likely that the evaluation of when volume rebates result in material rights

will require significant judgement.

Question 4-18: How would an entity account for the exercise of a material

right? That is, would an entity account for it as: a contract modification, a

continuation of the existing contract or variable consideration?

[TRG meeting 30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 32]

TRG members generally agreed that it is reasonable for an entity to account

for the exercise of a material right as either a contract modification or as a

continuation of the existing contract (i.e., a change in the transaction price).

TRG members also generally agreed that it is not appropriate to account for

the exercise of a material right as variable consideration.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Although TRG members generally agreed that the standard could be

interpreted to allow either approach, many TRG members favoured treating

the exercise of a material right as a continuation of the existing contract

because the customer decided to purchase additional goods or services that

were contemplated in the original contract (and not as part of a separate,

subsequent negotiation). Under this approach, if a customer exercises

a material right, an entity would update the transaction price of the contract

to include any consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled as

a result of the exercise, in accordance with the requirements for changes

in the transaction price included in IFRS 15.87-90 (see section 6.5).

Under these requirements, changes in the total transaction price are

generally allocated to the separate performance obligations on the same

basis as the initial allocation. However, IFRS 15.89 requires an entity to

allocate a change in the transaction price entirely to one or more, but not all,

performance obligations if the criteria of IFRS 15.85 are met. These criteria

(discussed further in section 6.3) are that the additional consideration

specifically relates to the entity’s efforts to satisfy the performance

obligation(s) and that allocating the additional consideration entirely to one or

more, but not all, performance obligation(s) is consistent with the standard’s

allocation objective (see section 6). The additional consideration received

for the exercise of the option is likely to meet the criteria to be allocated

directly to the performance obligation(s) underlying the material right.

Revenue would be recognised when (or as) the performance obligation(s) is

(are) satisfied.

The TRG agenda paper included the following example:

Example of the exercise of a material right under the requirements for

changes in the transaction price

Entity enters into a contract with Customer to provide two years of

Service A for CU100 and includes an option for Customer to purchase two

years of Service B for CU300. The stand-alone selling prices of Services A

and B are CU100 and CU400, respectively. Entity concludes that the

option represents a material right and its estimate of the stand-alone

selling price of the option is CU33. Entity allocates the CU100 transaction

price to each performance obligation as follows:

Transaction

Price

Stand-alone

selling price

Allocation

Service A

CU100

75%

CU75

Option

CU33

25%

CU25

Totals

CU100

CU133

100%

CU100

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of the exercise of a material right under the requirements for

changes in the transaction price (cont’d)

Upon executing the contract, Customer pays CU100 and Entity begins

transferring Service A to Customer. The consideration of CU75 that is

allocated to Service A is recognised over the two-year service period. The

consideration of CU25 that is allocated to the option is deferred until

Service B is transferred to the customer or the option expires.

Six months after executing the contract, Customer exercises the option

to purchase two years of Service B for CU300. Under this approach, the

consideration of CU300 related to Service B is added to the amount

previously allocated to the option to purchase Service B (i.e., CU300

+ CU25 = CU325). This is recognised as revenue over the two-year period

in which Service B is transferred. Entity is able to allocate the additional

consideration received for the exercise of the option to Service B because

it specifically relates to Entity’s efforts to satisfy the performance

obligation and the allocation in this manner is consistent with the

standard’s allocation objective.

TRG members who favoured the contract modification approach generally

did so because the exercise of a material right also meets the definition of

a contract modification in the standard (i.e., a change in the scope and/or

price of a contract). Under this approach, an entity follows the contract

modification requirements in IFRS 15.18-21 (see section 3.4).

Since more than one approach would be acceptable, TRG members generally

agreed that an entity needs to consider which approach is most appropriate,

based on the facts and circumstances, and consistently apply that approach

to similar contracts.

Question 4-19: Is an entity required to evaluate whether a customer option

that provides a material right includes a significant financing component? If

so, how would entities perform this evaluation? [TRG meeting 30 March

2015 – Agenda paper no.32]

TRG members generally agreed that an entity has to evaluate whether

a material right includes a significant financing component (see section 5.5)

in the same way that it evaluates any other performance obligation.

This evaluation requires judgement and consideration of the facts and

circumstances.

On this question, the TRG agenda paper discussed a factor that may be

determinative in this evaluation. IFRS 15.62(a) indicates that if a customer

provides advance payment for a good or service, but the customer can

choose when the good or service is transferred, no significant financing

component exists. As a result, if the customer can choose when to exercise

the option, it is unlikely that there will be a significant financing component.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 164

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 4-20: How should revenue be recognised for customer options for

additional goods or services that represent a material right but do not have

an expiration date (i.e., can an entity recognise breakage for these

options)?

Stakeholders have asked this question because IFRS 15.B40 states that an

entity should recognise revenue allocated to options that are material rights

when the future goods or services resulting from the option are transferred

or when the option expires. However, in some cases, options may be

perpetual and not have an expiration date. For example, loyalty points

likely provide a material right to a customer and, sometimes, these points

do not expire. We believe an entity may apply the requirements in IFRS 15

on customers’ unexercised rights (or breakage), which are discussed in

section 7.9 (i.e., IFRS 15.B44-B47). That is, we believe it is appropriate for

revenue allocated to a customer option that does not expire to be recognised

at the earlier of when the future goods or services, resulting from the option,

are transferred or, if the goods or services are not transferred, when

the likelihood of the customer exercising the option becomes remote.

4.7 Sale of products with a right of return

An entity may provide its customers with a right to return a transferred

product. A right of return may be contractual, an implicit right that exists due

to the entity’s customary business practice or a combination of both (e.g., an

entity has a stated return period, but generally accepts returns over a longer

period). A customer exercising its right to return a product may receive a full or

partial refund, a credit that can be applied to amounts owed, a different product

in exchange or any combination of these items.

Offering a right of return in a sales agreement obliges the selling entity to

stand ready to accept any returned product. IFRS 15.B22 states that such

an obligation does not represent a performance obligation. Instead, the Board

concluded that an entity makes an uncertain number of sales when it provides

goods with a return right. That is, until the right of return expires, the entity

is not certain how many sales will fail. Therefore, an entity does not recognise

revenue for sales that are expected to fail as a result of the customer exercising

its right to return the goods.

179

Instead, the potential for customer returns

needs to be considered when an entity estimates the transaction price because

potential returns are a component of variable consideration. This concept is

discussed further in section 5.4.

IFRS 15.B26 clarifies that exchanges by customers of one product for another

of the same type, quality, condition and price (e.g., one colour or size for

another) are not considered returns for the purposes of applying the standard.

Furthermore, contracts in which a customer may return a defective product

in exchange for a functioning product need to be evaluated in accordance with

the requirements on warranties included in IFRS 15. See further discussion on

warranties in section 9.1.

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IFRS 15.BC364.

165 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

Under legacy IFRS, revenue was recognised at the time of sale for a transaction

that provided a customer with a right of return, provided the seller could

reliably estimate future returns. In addition, the seller was required to recognise

a liability for the expected returns.

180

The requirements in IFRS 15 for sale of

products with a right of return are not significantly different from legacy IFRS.

However, there may be some differences as legacy IFRS did not specify the

presentation of a refund liability or the corresponding debit. IFRS 15 requires

that a return asset be recognised in relation to the inventory that may be

returned. In addition, the refund liability is required to be presented separately

from the corresponding asset (i.e., on a gross basis, rather than a net basis, see

section 5.2.2, section 5.3 and section 5.4).

180

IAS 18.17.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 166

5. Determine the transaction price (updated

October 2018)

The standard provides the following requirements for determining the

transaction price:

Extract from IFRS 15

Determining the transaction price

47. An entity shall consider the terms of the contract and its customary

business practices to determine the transaction price. The transaction

price is the amount of consideration to which an entity expects to be

entitled in exchange for transferring promised goods or services to a

customer, excluding amounts collected on behalf of third parties (for

example, some sales taxes). The consideration promised in a contract

with a customer may include fixed amounts, variable amounts, or both.

48. The nature, timing and amount of consideration promised by a customer

affect the estimate of the transaction price. When determining the

transaction price, an entity shall consider the effects of all of the following:

(a) variable consideration (see paragraphs 50–55 and 59);

(b) constraining estimates of variable consideration (see paragraphs 56–58);

paragraphs 60–65);

(d) non-cash consideration (see paragraphs 66–69); and

(e) consideration payable to a customer (see paragraphs 70–72).

49. For the purpose of determining the transaction price, an entity shall

assume that the goods or services will be transferred to the customer as

promised in accordance with the existing contract and that the contract

will not be cancelled, renewed or modified.

The transaction price is based on the amount to which the entity expects to

be ‘entitled’. This amount is meant to reflect the amount to which the entity has

rights under the present contract (see section 3.2 on contract enforceability

and termination clauses). That is, the transaction price does not include

estimates of consideration resulting from future change orders for additional

goods or services. The amount to which the entity expects to be entitled also

excludes amounts collected on behalf of another party, such as sales taxes. As

noted in the Basis for Conclusions, the Board decided that the transaction price

would not include the effects of the customer’s credit risk, unless the contract

includes a significant financing component (see section 5.5).

181

The IASB also clarified in the Basis for Conclusions that entities may have rights

under the present contract to amounts that are to be paid by parties other than

the customer and, if so, these amounts would be included in the transaction

price. For example, in the health care industry, an entity may be entitled under

the present contract to payments from the patient, insurance companies and

or/government organisations. If that is the case, the total amount to which

the entity expects to be entitled needs to be included in the transaction price,

regardless of the source.

182

181

IFRS 15.BC185.

182

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Determining the transaction price is an important step in applying IFRS 15

because this amount is allocated to the identified performance obligations

and is recognised as revenue when (or as) those performance obligations are

satisfied. In many cases, the transaction price is readily determinable because

the entity receives payment when it transfers promised goods or services

and the price is fixed (e.g., a restaurant’s sale of food with a no refund policy).

Determining the transaction price is more challenging when it is variable, when

payment is received at a time that differs from when the entity provides the

promised goods or services or when payment is in a form other than cash.

Consideration paid or payable by the entity to the customer may also affect

the determination of the transaction price.

The following flow chart illustrates how an entity would determine the

transaction price if the consideration to be received is fixed or variable:

* Consideration expected to be received under the contract can be variable even when

the stated price in the contract is fixed. This is because the entity may be entitled to

consideration only upon the occurrence or non-occurrence of a future event (see

section 5.2.1).

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-1: How would entities determine the presentation of amounts

billed to customers (e.g., shipping and handling, expenses or cost

reimbursements and taxes under the standards (i.e., as revenue or as a

reduction of costs)? [18 July 2014 TRG meeting; TRG agenda paper no. 2]

See response to Question 4-9 in section 4.4.4.

Estimate the amount using either the

expected value or most likely amount

method for each type of variable

consideration

(see section 5.2.2)

Fixed

Is the consideration expected to be received

under the present contract fixed or variable?*

Variable

Include the amount in the transaction price

Constrain the estimate to an amount

for which a significant

revenue reversal is not highly

probable

(see section 5.2.3)

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 168

5.1 Presentation of sales (and other similar) taxes (updated

October 2018)

Sales and excise taxes are those levied by taxing authorities on the sales of

goods or services. Although various names are used for these taxes, sales taxes

generally refer to taxes levied on the purchasers of the goods or services and

excise taxes refer to those levied on the sellers of goods or services.

The standard includes a general principle that an entity determines

the transaction price exclusive of amounts collected on behalf of third

parties (e.g., some sales taxes). Following the issuance of the standard,

some stakeholders informed the Board’s staff that there could be multiple

interpretations regarding whether certain items that are billed to customers

need to be presented as revenue or as a reduction of costs. Examples of such

amounts include shipping and handling fees, reimbursements of out-of-pocket

expenses and taxes or other assessments collected and remitted to government

authorities.

At the July 2014 TRG meeting, members of the TRG generally agreed that

the standard is clear that any amounts that are not collected on behalf of third

parties would be included in the transaction price (i.e., revenue). That is, if the

amounts were earned by the entity in fulfilling its performance obligations, the

amounts are included in the transaction price and recorded as revenue.

Several TRG members noted that this would require entities to evaluate taxes

collected in all jurisdictions in which they operate to determine whether a tax

is levied on the entity or the customer. In addition, TRG members indicated

that an entity would apply the principal versus agent application guidance (see

section 4.4 above) when it is not clear whether the amounts are collected on

behalf of third parties. This could result in amounts billed to a customer being

recorded net of costs incurred (i.e., on a net basis).

FASB differences

The FASB’s standard allows an entity to make an accounting policy election

to present revenue net of certain types of taxes (including sales, use, value-

added and some excise taxes) with a requirement for preparers to disclose

the policy. As a result, entities that make this election do not need to

evaluate taxes that they collect (e.g., sales, use, value-added, some excise

taxes) in all jurisdictions in which they operate in order to determine whether

a tax is levied on the entity or the customer. This type of evaluation would

otherwise be necessary to meet the standard’s requirement to exclude from

the transaction price any “amounts collected on behalf of third parties (for

example, some sales taxes)”.

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The IASB decided not to include a similar accounting policy election in

IFRS 15, noting that the requirements of IFRS 15 are consistent with legacy

IFRS requirements.

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As a result, differences may arise between entities

applying IFRS 15 and those applying ASC 606.

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IFRS 15.47.

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169 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

5.2 Variable consideration

The transaction price reflects an entity’s expectations about the consideration

to which it will be entitled to receive from the customer. The standard provides

the following requirements for determining whether consideration is variable

and, if so, how it would be treated under the model:

Extract from IFRS 15

50. If the consideration promised in a contract includes a variable amount,

an entity shall estimate the amount of consideration to which the entity will

be entitled in exchange for transferring the promised goods or services to

a customer.

51. An amount of consideration can vary because of discounts, rebates,

refunds, credits, price concessions, incentives, performance bonuses,

penalties or other similar items. The promised consideration can also

vary if an entity’s entitlement to the consideration is contingent on the

occurrence or non-occurrence of a future event. For example, an amount

of consideration would be variable if either a product was sold with a right of

return or a fixed amount is promised as a performance bonus on achievement

of a specified milestone.

52. The variability relating to the consideration promised by a customer may

be explicitly stated in the contract. In addition to the terms of the contract,

the promised consideration is variable if either of the following circumstances

exists:

(a) the customer has a valid expectation arising from an entity’s customary

business practices, published policies or specific statements that the

entity will accept an amount of consideration that is less than the price

stated in the contract. That is, it is expected that the entity will offer

a price concession. Depending on the jurisdiction, industry or customer

this offer may be referred to as a discount, rebate, refund or credit.

(b) other facts and circumstances indicate that the entity’s intention, when

entering into the contract with the customer, is to offer a price

concession to the customer.

These concepts are discussed in more detail below.

5.2.1 Forms of variable consideration (updated September 2019)

IFRS 15.51 describes ’variable consideration’ broadly to include discounts,

rebates, refunds, credits, price concessions, incentives, performance bonuses

and penalties. Variable consideration can result from explicit terms in a contract

to which the parties to the contract agreed or can be implied by an entity’s past

business practices or intentions under the contract. It is important for entities to

appropriately identify the different instances of variable consideration included

in a contract because the second step of estimating variable consideration

requires entities to apply a constraint (as discussed further in section 5.2.3) to

all variable consideration.

Many types of variable consideration identified in IFRS 15 were also considered

variable consideration under legacy IFRS. An example of this is where a portion

of the transaction price depends on an entity meeting specified performance

conditions and there is uncertainty about the outcome. This portion of the

transaction price would be considered variable (or contingent) consideration

under both legacy IFRS and IFRS 15.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 170

The Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that consideration can be variable

even when the stated price in the contract is fixed. This is because the entity

may be entitled to consideration only upon the occurrence or non-occurrence

of a future event.

185

For example, IFRS 15’s description of variable

consideration includes amounts resulting from variability due to customer

refunds or returns. As a result, a contract to provide a customer with

100 widgets at a fixed price per widget would be considered to include a

variable component if the customer has the right to return the widgets (see

section 5.4.1).

In many transactions, entities have variable consideration as a result of rebates

and/or discounts on the price of products or services they provide to customers

once the customers meet specific volume thresholds. The standard contains the

following example relating to volume discounts:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 24—Volume discount incentive (IFRS 15.IE124-IE128)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer on 1 January 20X8 to sell

Product A for CU100 per unit. If the customer purchases more than 1,000

units of Product A in a calendar year, the contract specifies that the price

per unit is retrospectively reduced to CU90 per unit. Consequently, the

consideration in the contract is variable.

For the first quarter ended 31 March 20X8, the entity sells 75 units of

Product A to the customer. The entity estimates that the customer's

purchases will not exceed the 1,000-unit threshold required for the volume

discount in the calendar year.

The entity considers the requirements in paragraphs 56–58 of IFRS 15 on

constraining estimates of variable consideration, including the factors in

paragraph 57 of IFRS 15. The entity determines that it has significant

experience with this product and with the purchasing pattern of the entity.

Thus, the entity concludes that it is highly probable that a significant reversal

in the cumulative amount of revenue recognised (ie CU100 per unit) will not

occur when the uncertainty is resolved (ie when the total amount of

purchases is known). Consequently, the entity recognises revenue of

CU7,500 (75 units × CU100 per unit) for the quarter ended

31 March 20X8.

In May 20X8, the entity's customer acquires another company and in the

second quarter ended 30 June 20X8 the entity sells an additional 500 units

of Product A to the customer. In the light of the new fact, the entity estimates

that the customer's purchases will exceed the 1,000-unit threshold for the

calendar year and therefore it will be required to retrospectively reduce the

price per unit to CU90.

Consequently, the entity recognises revenue of CU44,250 for the quarter

ended 30 June 20X8. That amount is calculated from CU45,000 for the sale

of 500 units (500 units × CU90 per unit) less the change in transaction price

of CU750 (75 units × CU10 price reduction) for the reduction of revenue

relating to units sold for the quarter ended 31 March 20X8 (see

paragraphs 87 and 88 of IFRS 15).

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171 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

How we see it

IFRS 15 requires entities to disclose how they estimate variable

consideration when determining the transaction price in contracts with

customers, including the following:

• Significant payment terms (including whether the consideration is variable

and whether the estimate is typically constrained, rights of return, etc.)

• Significant judgements used in determining the transaction price,

including information about methods, inputs and assumptions used to

estimate variable consideration and assess whether the estimate is

constrained.

As a result, entities may need to explain the different forms of variable

consideration included in their contracts with customers. Entities, therefore,

need to carefully consider and identify all forms of variable consideration

when they determine the transaction price for their customer contracts and

review their disclosures to verify that they meet the disclosure requirements

in IFRS 15.119, 123 and 126 (see section 10.5 for a discussion of disclosure

requirements).

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-2: Should volume rebates and/or discounts on goods or services

be accounted for as variable consideration or as customer options to

acquire additional goods or services at a discount?

See response to Question 4-16 in section 4.6.

Question 5-3: How would an entity distinguish between a contract that

contains an option to purchase additional goods or services and a contract

that includes variable consideration based on a variable quantity (e.g., a

usage-based fee)? [TRG Meeting 9 November 2015 – Agenda paper no. 48]

See response to Question 4-13 in section 4.6.

Question 5-4: Should liquidated damages, penalties or compensation from

other similar clauses be accounted for as variable consideration or warranty

provisions under the standard?

Most liquidated damages, penalties and similar payments are accounted for

as variable consideration. However, in limited situations, we believe that

amounts that are based on the actual performance of a delivered good or

service may be considered similar to warranty payments (e.g., in situations in

which an entity pays the customer’s direct costs to remedy a defect).

Some contracts provide for liquidated damages, penalties or other damages if

an entity fails to deliver future goods or services or if the goods or services

fail to meet certain specifications. IFRS 15.51 includes ‘penalties’ as an

example of variable consideration and describes how promised consideration

in a contract can be variable if the right to receive the consideration is

contingent on the occurrence or non-occurrence of a future event (e.g., the

contract specifies that an entity pays a penalty if it fails to perform according

to the agreed upon terms).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 172

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Penalties and other clauses that are considered similar to warranty provisions

would be accounted for as:

(a) Consideration paid or payable to a customer (which may be variable

consideration, see section 5.7)

(b) An assurance-type or service-type warranty (see section 9.1 on

warranties)

Cash fines or penalties paid to a customer would generally be accounted for

under the requirements on consideration payable to a customer. However,

we believe there may be situations in which it is appropriate to account for

cash payments as an assurance-type warranty (e.g., an entity’s direct

reimbursement to the customer for costs paid by the customer to a third

party for repair of a product).

In 2019, the IFRS IC received a request asking whether an airline accounts for

its obligation to compensate customers for delayed or cancelled flights as

variable consideration or, separate from the contract, by applying

IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets.

When the issue was discussed at the September 2019 meeting, the IFRS IC

observed that the compensation for delays or cancellations gives rise to

variable consideration because it:

•

Relates directly to the entity’s fulfilment of its performance obligation

(i.e., failure to perform as promised triggers the compensation payment)

And

•

Does not represent compensation for harm or damage caused by the

entity’s products (and, therefore, IFRS 15.B33 does not apply).

The IFRS IC also observed that the compensation payment was similar to

penalties for delayed transfer of an asset, which also gives rise to variable

consideration, as is illustrated in Example 20 of the standard.

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Question 5-5: If a contract includes an undefined quantity of outputs, but

the contractual rate per unit is fixed, is the consideration variable? [TRG

meeting 13 July 2015 – Agenda paper no. 39]

Yes. TRG members generally agreed that if a contract includes an unknown

quantity of tasks, throughout the contract period, for which the entity has

enforceable rights and obligations (i.e., the unknown quantity of tasks is

not an option to purchase additional goods or services, as described in

Question 4-13 in section 4.6) and the consideration received is contingent

upon the quantity completed, the total transaction price would be variable.

This is because the contract has a range of possible transaction prices and

the ultimate consideration depends on the occurrence or non-occurrence of

a future event (e.g., customer usage), even though the rate per unit is fixed.

The TRG agenda paper on this topic noted that an entity would need to

consider contractual minimums (or other clauses) that would make some

or all of the consideration fixed.

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IFRIC Update, September 2019, available on the IASB’s website.

173 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 5-6: If a contract is denominated in a currency other than that of

the entity’s functional currency, should changes in the contract price due

to exchange rate fluctuations be accounted for as variable consideration?

We believe that changes to the contract price due to exchange rate

fluctuations do not result in variable consideration. These price fluctuations

are a consequence of entering into a contract that is denominated in a foreign

currency, rather than a result of a contract term like a discount or rebate or

one that depends on the occurrence or non-occurrence of a future event, as

described in IFRS 15.51.

The variability resulting from changes in foreign exchange rates relates to

the form of the consideration (i.e., it is in a currency other than the entity’s

functional currency). As such, we believe that it would not be considered

variable consideration when determining the transaction price. This variability

may, instead, need to be accounted for in accordance with IFRS 9 if it is a

separable embedded derivative. Otherwise, an entity would account for this

variability in accordance with IAS 21

The Effects of Changes in Foreign

Exchange Rates

IFRIC 22

Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration

specifies

that when consideration denominated in a foreign currency is recognised in

advance of the associated revenue, the appropriate application of IAS 21 is

to measure the revenue using the exchange rate at the date the advanced

receipt is recognised.

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Question 5-7: How would an entity account for price protection or price

matching clauses included in a contract with a customer?

Consideration subject to price protection or price matching clauses that

require an entity to refund a portion of the consideration to the customer in

certain situations must be accounted for as variable consideration under

IFRS 15. That is, we believe that, if an entity is required to retrospectively

apply lower prices to previous purchases made by a customer (or has a past

business practice of doing so, even if the contractual terms would only require

prospective application), the consideration would be accounted for as variable

consideration.

Examples include contracts between an entity and a customer that provide,

either as a matter of formal agreement or due to an entity’s business

practices, that the entity will refund or provide a credit equal to a portion of

the original purchase price towards future purchases if the entity subsequently

reduces its price for a previously delivered product and the customer still

has inventory of that product on hand. An entity may also offer to match a

competitor’s price and provide a refund of the difference if the customer finds

the same product offered by one of the entity’s competitors for a lower price

during a specified period of time following the sale.

Contracts with customers also may contain ‘most favoured nation’ or ‘most

favoured customer’ clauses under which the entity guarantees that the price

of any products sold to the customer after contract inception will be the lowest

price the entity offers to any other customer. How consideration from such

contracts would be accounted for under IFRS 15 depends on the terms of

the clause (i.e., whether the price protection is offered prospectively or

retrospectively).

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

We believe that clauses that require an entity to prospectively provide a

customer with its best prices on any purchases of products after the

execution of a contract have no effect on the revenue recognised for goods

or services already transferred to the customer (i.e., the consideration would

not be accounted for as variable consideration).

However, if an entity is required to retrospectively apply lower prices to

previous purchases made by a customer (or has a past business practice of

doing so even if the written contractual terms would only require prospective

application), we believe the contract includes a form of price protection and

the consideration subject to this provision would be accounted for as variable

consideration, as discussed above. We note that these clauses may be present

in arrangements with governmental agencies. For example, an entity may

be required to monitor discounts given to comparable customers during the

contract period and to refund the difference between what was paid by the

government and the price granted to comparable commercial customers.

Question 5-8: Do early payment (or prompt payment) discounts represent

a form of variable consideration?

Yes. Contracts with customers may include a discount for early payment

(or ‘prompt payment’ discount) under which the customer can pay less than

an invoice’s stated amount if the payment is made within a certain period of

time. For example, a customer might receive a 2% discount if the payment is

made within 15 days of receipt (if payment is otherwise due within 45 days

of receipt). Because the amount of consideration to be received by the entity

would vary depending on whether the customer takes advantage of the

discount, the transaction price is variable.

5.2.1.A Implicit price concessions

For some contracts, the stated price has easily identifiable variable

components. However, for other contracts, the consideration may be variable

because the facts and circumstances indicate that the entity may accept

a lower price than the amount stated in the contract (i.e., it expects to provide

an implicit price concession). This could be a result of the customer’s valid

expectation that the entity will reduce its price because of the entity’s

customary business practices, published policies or specific statements made

by the entity.

An implicit price concession could also result from other facts and

circumstances indicating that the entity intended to offer a price concession

to the customer when it entered into the contract. For example, an entity

may accept a lower price than the amount stated in the contract to develop or

enhance a customer relationship or because the incremental cost of providing

the service to the customer is not significant and the total consideration it

expects to collect provides a sufficient margin.

175 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The standard provides the following example of when an implicit price

concession exists and the transaction price, therefore, is not the amount stated

in the contract:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 2 — Consideration is not the stated price – implicit price

concession (IFRS 15.IE7-IE9)

An entity sells 1,000 units of a prescription drug to a customer for promised

consideration of CU1 million. This is the entity's first sale to a customer in

a new region, which is experiencing significant economic difficulty. Thus,

the entity expects that it will not be able to collect from the customer

the full amount of the promised consideration. Despite the possibility of not

collecting the full amount, the entity expects the region's economy to recover

over the next two to three years and determines that a relationship with the

customer could help it to forge relationships with other potential customers

in the region.

When assessing whether the criterion in paragraph 9(e) of IFRS 15 is met,

the entity also considers paragraphs 47 and 52(b) of IFRS 15. Based on

the assessment of the facts and circumstances, the entity determines that

it expects to provide a price concession and accept a lower amount of

consideration from the customer. Accordingly, the entity concludes that

the transaction price is not CU1 million and, therefore, the promised

consideration is variable. The entity estimates the variable consideration

and determines that it expects to be entitled to CU400,000.

The entity considers the customer's ability and intention to pay the

consideration and concludes that even though the region is experiencing

economic difficulty, it is probable that it will collect CU400,000 from

the customer. Consequently, the entity concludes that the criterion in

paragraph 9(e) of IFRS 15 is met based on an estimate of variable

consideration of CU400,000. In addition, on the basis of an evaluation

of the contract terms and other facts and circumstances, the entity concludes

that the other criteria in paragraph 9 of IFRS 15 are also met. Consequently,

the entity accounts for the contract with the customer in accordance with

the requirements in IFRS 15.

Variable consideration may also result from extended payment terms in a

contract and any resulting uncertainty about whether the entity will be willing

to accept a lower amount when it is paid in the future. That is, an entity has

to evaluate whether the extended payment terms represent an implied price

concession because the entity does not intend to, or will not be able to, collect

all amounts due in future periods.

However, in the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB acknowledged that, in some

cases, it may be difficult to determine whether the entity has implicitly offered

a price concession or whether the entity has chosen to accept the risk of the

customer defaulting on the contractually agreed consideration (i.e., impairment

losses).

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The Board did not develop detailed application guidance to assist in

distinguishing between price concessions (recognised as variable consideration,

within revenue) and impairment losses (recognised as a bad debt expense,

outside of revenue). Therefore, entities need to consider all relevant facts and

circumstances when analysing situations in which an entity is willing to accept

a lower price than the amount stated in the contract.

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Appropriately distinguishing between price concessions (i.e., reductions of

revenue) and customer credit risk (i.e., bad debt) for collectability concerns

that were known at contract inception is important because it affects whether

a valid contract exists (see section 3.1.5) and the subsequent accounting for

the transaction. If an entity determines at contract inception that a contract

includes a price concession (i.e., variable consideration), any change in the

estimate of the amount the entity expects to collect, absent an identifiable

credit event, is accounted for as a change in the transaction price. That is,

a decrease in the amount the entity expects to collect would be recorded as

a reduction in revenue and not as a bad debt expense, unless there is an event

that affects a customer’s ability to pay some or all of the transaction price

(e.g., a known decline in a customer’s operations, a bankruptcy filing). As

illustrated in Example 2 in IFRS 15 (in the extract above), entities may estimate

a transaction price that is significantly lower than the stated invoice or

contractual amount, but still consider the difference between those amounts to

be variable consideration (e.g., a price concession), rather than a collectability

issue related to bad debt. Under legacy IFRS, such amounts were likely

expensed as bad debts, rather than being reflected as a reduction of revenue.

5.2.2 Estimating variable consideration (updated September 2019)

An entity is required to estimate variable consideration using either the

’expected value’ or the ’most likely amount’ method, as described in the

standard:

Extract from IFRS 15

53. An entity shall estimate an amount of variable consideration by using

either of the following methods, depending on which method the entity

expects to better predict the amount of consideration to which it will be

entitled:

(a) The expected value—the expected value is the sum of probability-

weighted amounts in a range of possible consideration amounts. An

expected value may be an appropriate estimate of the amount of variable

consideration if an entity has a large number of contracts with similar

characteristics.

(b) The most likely amount—the most likely amount is the single most likely

amount in a range of possible consideration amounts (ie the single

most likely outcome of the contract). The most likely amount may be

an appropriate estimate of the amount of variable consideration if the

contract has only two possible outcomes (for example, an entity either

achieves a performance bonus or does not).

54. An entity shall apply one method consistently throughout the contract

when estimating the effect of an uncertainty on an amount of variable

consideration to which the entity will be entitled. In addition, an entity

shall consider all the information (historical, current and forecast) that is

reasonably available to the entity and shall identify a reasonable number

of possible consideration amounts. The information that an entity uses to

estimate the amount of variable consideration would typically be similar

to the information that the entity's management uses during the bid-and-

proposal process and in establishing prices for promised goods or services.

An entity is required to choose between the expected value method and the

most likely amount method based on which method better predicts the amount

of consideration to which it will be entitled. That is, the method selected is not

meant to be a ‘free choice’. Rather, an entity must select the method that is

best suited, based on the specific facts and circumstances of the contract.

177 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

An entity applies the selected method consistently to each type of variable

consideration throughout the contract term and updates the estimated variable

consideration at the end of each reporting period. Once it selects a method,

an entity is required to apply that method consistently for similar types of

variable consideration in similar types of contracts. In the Basis for Conclusions,

the Board noted that a contract may contain different types of variable

consideration.

189

As such, it may be appropriate for an entity to use different

methods (i.e., expected value or most likely amount) for estimating different

types of variable consideration within a single contract.

Entities determine the expected value of variable consideration using the

sum of probability-weighted amounts in a range of possible amounts under the

contract. To do this, an entity identifies the possible outcomes of a contract

and the probabilities of those outcomes. The Board indicated in the Basis for

Conclusions that the expected value method may better predict expected

consideration when an entity has a large number of contracts with similar

characteristics.

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This method may also better predict consideration when an

entity has a single contract with a large number of possible outcomes. The IASB

clarified that an entity preparing an expected value calculation is not required

to consider all possible outcomes, even if the entity has extensive data and

can identify many possible outcomes. Instead, the IASB noted in the Basis for

Conclusions that, in many cases, a limited number of discrete outcomes and

probabilities can provide a reasonable estimate of the expected value.

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Illustration 5-1 — Estimating the transaction price using the expected

value method

Entity A enters into contracts with customers to construct commercial

buildings. The contracts include similar terms and conditions and contain a

fixed fee plus variable consideration for a performance bonus related to the

timing of Entity A’s completion of the construction. Based on Entity A’s

historical experience, the expected bonus amounts and associated

probabilities for achieving each bonus are, as follows:

Bonus amount

Probability of outcome

CU0

25%

CU100,000

50%

CU150,000

25%

Entity A determines that using the expected value method would better

predict the amount of consideration to which it will be entitled because it has

a large number of contracts that have characteristics that are similar to the

new contract. Under the expected value method, Entity A estimates variable

consideration of CU87,500, as follows:

Bonus amount

(a)

Probability of outcome

(b)

Expected value

amount (a

CU0

25%

CU0

CU100,000

50%

CU50,000

CU150,000

25%

CU37,500

Total

CU87,500

Entity A needs to consider the effect of applying the constraint on variable

consideration (see section 5.2.3).

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IFRS 15.BC202.

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IFRS 15.BC200.

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IFRS 15.BC201.

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Entities determine the most likely amount of variable consideration using the

single most likely amount in a range of possible consideration amounts. The

Board indicated in the Basis for Conclusions that the most likely amount method

may be the better predictor when the entity expects to be entitled to one of

two possible amounts.

192

For example, a contract in which an entity is entitled

to receive all or none of a specified performance bonus, but not a portion of

that bonus.

Illustration 5-2 — Estimating the transaction price using the most likely

amount

Entity A enters into a six-month advertising campaign agreement

(CU500,000 fixed fee) that also includes a potential CU100,000 performance

bonus linked to certain goals. Entity A estimates that it is 90% likely to receive

the entire performance bonus and 10% likely to receive none of the bonus.

Because of the binary nature of the outcome (i.e., the entity will either

receive the performance bonus or not receive it), Entity A determines that

the most likely amount method is the better predictor of the amount to which

it expects to be entitled. Because it is 90% probable that Entity A will receive

the CU100,000 performance bonus, Entity A estimates the most likely

amount it will receive is CU600,000 (i.e., CU500,000 fixed fee plus the entire

CU100,000 bonus).

However, Entity A also needs to consider the effect of applying the constraint

on variable consideration (see section 5.2.3) and determine whether it is

highly probable that a significant reversal will not occur if it includes the

entire CU100,000 performance bonus in the transaction price.

The standard states that when applying either of these methods, an entity

considers all information (historical, current and forecast) that is reasonably

available to the entity. Some stakeholders questioned whether an entity

would be applying the portfolio approach practical expedient in IFRS 15.4 (see

section 3.3.1) when considering evidence from other, similar contracts to

develop an estimate of variable consideration using an expected value method.

TRG members discussed this question and generally agreed that an entity would

not be applying the portfolio approach practical expedient if it used a portfolio

of data from its historical experience with similar customers and/or contracts.

TRG members noted that an entity could choose to apply the portfolio approach

practical expedient, but would not be required to do so.

193

Use of this practical

expedient requires an entity to assert that it does not expect the use of

the expedient to differ materially from applying the standard to an individual

contract. The TRG agenda paper noted that using a portfolio of data is not

equivalent to using the portfolio approach practical expedient, so entities that

use the expected value method to estimate variable consideration would not

be required to assert that the outcome from the portfolio is not expected to

materially differ from an assessment of individual contracts.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

Upon adoption of IFRS 15, many entities will have seen significant changes in

how they account for variable consideration on adoption of IFRS 15. This will

have been an even more significant change for entities that previously did not

attempt to estimate variable consideration under legacy IFRS and simply

recognised such amounts when received or known with a high degree of

192

IFRS 15.BC200.

193

TRG Agenda paper no. 38, Portfolio Practical Expedient and Application of Variable

Consideration Constraint, dated 13 July 2015.

179 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

certainty (e.g., upon receipt of a report from a customer detailing the amount of

revenue due to the entity).

As an example, the standard may have changed practice for many entities that

sell their products through distributors or resellers. Before revenue could

be recognised, Legacy IFRS required that the amount of revenue be measured

reliably and that it be probable that the economic benefits associated with the

transaction will flow to the entity. As a result, when the sales price charged to

the distributor or reseller was not finalised until the product was sold to the end-

customer, entities may have waited until the product was sold to the end-

customer to recognise revenue.

Under IFRS 15, waiting until the end-sale has occurred is no longer acceptable

if the only uncertainty is the variability in the pricing. This is because IFRS 15

requires an entity to estimate the variable consideration (i.e., the end-sales

price) based on the information available, taking into consideration the effect of

the constraint on variable consideration. However, in some cases, the outcomes

under IFRS 15 and legacy IFRS may be similar if a significant portion of the

estimated revenue is constrained.

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-9: Are there any situations in which an entity would not have to

estimate variable consideration at contract inception under IFRS 15?

An entity may not have to estimate variable consideration at the inception of

a contract in the following situations:

•

Allocation of variable consideration exception — When the terms of

a variable payment relate to an entity’s efforts to satisfy a specific part

of a contract (i.e., one or more, but not all, performance obligations or

distinct goods or services promised in a series) and allocating the

consideration to this specific part is consistent with the overall allocation

objectives of the standard, IFRS 15 requires variable consideration to be

allocated entirely to that specific part of a contract. As a result, variable

consideration would not be estimated for the purpose of recognising

revenue. For example, an entity that provides a series of distinct hotel

management services and receives a variable fee based on a fixed

percentage of rental revenue would need to allocate the percentage of

monthly rental revenue entirely to the period in which the consideration

is earned if the criteria to use this allocation exception are met. See

section 6.3 for further discussion of the variable consideration allocation

exception.

•

The ‘right to invoice’ practical expedient — When an entity recognises

revenue over time, the right to invoice practical expedient allows it to

recognise revenue as invoiced if the entity’s right to payment is for an

amount that corresponds directly with the value to the customer of the

entity’s performance to date. For example, an entity may not be required

to estimate the variable consideration for a three-year service contract

under which it has a right to invoice the customer a fixed amount for each

hour of service rendered, provided that fixed amount reflects the value

to the customer. See section 7.1.4.A for further discussion of the right to

invoice practical expedient.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 180

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

•

Sales-based and usage-based royalties on licences of intellectual

property recognition constraint — The standard provides explicit

application guidance for recognising consideration from sales-based and

usage-based royalties provided in exchange for licences of intellectual

property. The standard states that an entity recognises sales-based and

usage-based royalties as revenue at the later of when: (1) the subsequent

sales or usage occurs; or (2) the performance obligation to which some,

or all, of the sales-based or usage-based royalty has been allocated has

been satisfied (or partially satisfied). In many cases, using this application

guidance results in the same pattern of revenue recognition as fully

constraining the estimate of variable consideration associated with the

future royalty stream. However, in cases where an entity is required to

allocate sales-based or usage-based royalties to separate performance

obligations in a contract, it may need to include expected royalties in

its estimate of the stand-alone selling price of one or more of the

performance obligations. See section 8.5 for further discussion about

sales-based and usage-based royalties related to licences of intellectual

property.

5.2.3 Constraining estimates of variable consideration (updated September

2019)

Before an entity can include any amount of variable consideration in the

transaction price, it must consider whether the amount of variable

consideration is required to be constrained. The Board explained in the Basis for

Conclusions that it created this constraint on variable consideration to address

concerns raised by many constituents that the standard could otherwise require

recognition of revenue before there was sufficient certainty that the amounts

recognised would faithfully depict the consideration to which an entity expects

to be entitled in exchange for the goods or services transferred to a

customer.

194

The IASB explained in the Basis for Conclusions that it did not intend to

eliminate the use of estimates from the revenue recognition standard.

Instead, it wanted to make sure the estimates are robust and result in useful

information.

195

Following this objective, the Board concluded that it was

appropriate to include estimates of variable consideration in revenue only

when an entity has a ‘high degree of confidence’ that revenue will not be

reversed in a subsequent reporting period.

Therefore, as the following extract from the standard states, the constraint is

aimed at preventing the over-recognition of revenue (i.e., the standard focuses

on potential significant reversals of revenue):

Extract from IFRS 15

56. An entity shall include in the transaction price some or all of an amount

of variable consideration estimated in accordance with paragraph 53 only to

the extent that it is highly probable that a significant reversal in the amount

of cumulative revenue recognised will not occur when the uncertainty

associated with the variable consideration is subsequently resolved.

194

IFRS 15.BC203.

195

IFRS 15.BC204.

181 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

57. In assessing whether it is highly probable that a significant reversal in the

amount of cumulative revenue recognised will not occur once the uncertainty

related to the variable consideration is subsequently resolved, an entity shall

consider both the likelihood and the magnitude of the revenue reversal.

Factors that could increase the likelihood or the magnitude of a revenue

reversal include, but are not limited to, any of the following:

(a) the amount of consideration is highly susceptible to factors outside the

entity’s influence. Those factors may include volatility in a market, the

judgement or actions of third parties, weather conditions and a high risk

of obsolescence of the promised good or service.

(b) the uncertainty about the amount of consideration is not expected to be

resolved for a long period of time.

is limited, or that experience (or other evidence) has limited predictive

value.

(d) the entity has a practice of either offering a broad range of price

concessions or changing the payment terms and conditions of similar

contracts in similar circumstances.

(e) the contract has a large number and broad range of possible

consideration amounts.

To include variable consideration in the estimated transaction price, the entity

has to conclude that it is ’highly probable’ that a significant revenue reversal

will not occur in future periods once the uncertainty related to the variable

consideration is resolved. For the purpose of this analysis, the meaning

of the term ‘highly probable’ is consistent with the existing definition in IFRS,

i.e., “significantly more likely than probable”.

196

FASB differences

For US GAAP preparers, ASC 606 uses the term ’probable’ as the confidence

threshold for applying the constraint, rather than ‘highly probable’, which is

defined as “the future event or events are likely to occur.”

197

However, the

meaning of ‘probable’ under US GAAP is intended to be the same as ‘highly

probable’ under IFRS.

198

Furthermore, the IASB noted that an entity’s analysis to determine whether

its estimate of variable consideration should be constrained is largely

qualitative.

199

That is, an entity needs to use judgement to evaluate whether it

has met the objective of the constraint (i.e., it is highly probable that a significant

revenue reversal will not occur in future periods) considering the factors

provided in the standard that increase the probability of a significant revenue

reversal (discussed further below). In addition, conclusions about amounts that

may result in a significant revenue reversal may change as an entity satisfies a

performance obligation.

196

As defined in IFRS 5 Appendix A.

197

For US GAAP, the term ‘probable’ is defined in the master glossary of the US Accounting

Standards Codification as “the future event or events are likely to occur”.

198

IFRS15.BC211.

199

IFRS15.BC212.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 182

An entity needs to consider both the likelihood and magnitude of a revenue

reversal to apply the constraint:

• Likelihood – assessing the likelihood of a future reversal of revenue requires

significant judgement. Entities want to ensure that they adequately

document the basis for their conclusions. The presence of any one of

the indicators cited in the extract above does not necessarily mean that a

reversal will occur if the variable consideration is included in the transaction

price. The standard includes factors, rather than criteria, to signal that the

list of items to consider is not a checklist for which all items need to be met.

In addition, the factors provided are not meant to be an all-inclusive list and

entities may consider additional factors that are relevant to their facts and

circumstances.

• Magnitude — when assessing the probability of a significant revenue

reversal, an entity is also required to assess the magnitude of that reversal.

The constraint is based on the probability of a reversal of an amount that is

‘significant’ relative to the cumulative revenue recognised for the contract.

When assessing the significance of the potential revenue reversal, the

cumulative revenue recognised at the date of the potential reversal includes

both fixed and variable consideration and includes revenue recognised from

the entire contract, not just the transaction price allocated to a single

performance obligation.

An entity must carefully evaluate the factors that could increase the likelihood

or the magnitude of a revenue reversal, including those listed in IFRS 15.57:

• The amount of consideration is highly susceptible to factors outside the

entity’s influence (e.g., volatility in a market, judgement or actions of third

parties, weather conditions, high risk of obsolescence of the promised good

or service).

• The uncertainty about the amount of consideration is not expected to be

resolved for a long period of time.

• The entity’s experience (or other evidence) of similar types of contracts is

limited, or that experience (or other evidence) has limited predictive value.

• The entity has a practice of either offering a broad range of price

concessions or changing the payment terms and conditions of similar

contracts in similar circumstances.

• The contract has a large number and broad range of possible consideration

amounts.

183 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Illustration 5-3 — Evaluating the factors that could increase the likelihood

or magnitude of a significant revenue reversal

Assume that an insurance broker receives ‘trailing commissions’ of CU100

every time a consumer signs up for a new insurance policy and CU50

whenever one of those consumers renews a policy.

In this fact pattern, the broker has a large pool of historical data about

customer renewal patterns, given its significant experience with similar

contracts. The broker considers the above factors and notes that the amount

of consideration is highly susceptible to factors outside its influence and the

uncertainty could remain over several years. However, it also has significant

experience with similar types of contracts and its experience has predictive

value.

As a result, even though the amount of consideration the entity will

be entitled to is uncertain and depends on the actions of third parties

(i.e., customer renewals), it is likely that the entity can estimate a minimum

amount of variable consideration for which it is highly probable that a

significant reversal of cumulative revenue will not occur. Assuming the

broker’s performance is complete upon initial signing of a contract, the

broker would recognise the initial CU100 fee plus the minimum amount

related to future renewals that is not constrained.

There are some types of variable consideration that are frequently included

in contracts that have significant uncertainties. It is likely more difficult for

an entity to assert it is highly probable that these types of estimated amounts

will not be subsequently reversed. Examples of the types of variable

consideration include the following:

• Payments contingent on regulatory approval (e.g., regulatory approval of

a new drug)

• Long-term commodity supply arrangements that settle based on market

prices at the future delivery date

• Contingency fees based on litigation or regulatory outcomes (e.g., fees

based on the positive outcome of litigation or the settlement of claims with

government agencies)

When an entity determines that it cannot meet the highly probable threshold if

it includes all of the variable consideration in the transaction price, the amount

of variable consideration that must be included in the transaction price is limited

to the amount that would not result in a significant revenue reversal. That is,

the estimate of variable consideration is reduced until it reaches an amount that

can be included in the transaction price that, if subsequently reversed when

the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved, would not

result in a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognised. When there is

significant uncertainty about the ultimate pricing of a contract, entities should

not default to constraining the estimate of variable consideration to zero.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 184

The standard includes an example in which the application of the constraint

limits the amount of variable consideration included in the transaction price

and one in which it does not:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 23 — Price concessions (IFRS 15.IE116-IE123)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer, a distributor, on 1

December 20X7. The entity transfers 1,000 products at contract inception

for a price stated in the contract of CU100 per product (total consideration

is CU100,000). Payment from the customer is due when the customer sells

the products to the end customers. The entity's customer generally sells the

products within 90 days of obtaining them. Control of the products transfers

to the customer on 1 December 20X7.

On the basis of its past practices and to maintain its relationship with the

customer, the entity anticipates granting a price concession to its customer

because this will enable the customer to discount the product and thereby

move the product through the distribution chain. Consequently, the

consideration in the contract is variable.

Case A—Estimate of variable consideration is not constrained

The entity has significant experience selling this and similar products. The

observable data indicate that historically the entity grants a price concession

of approximately 20 per cent of the sales price for these products. Current

market information suggests that a 20 per cent reduction in price will be

sufficient to move the products through the distribution chain. The entity

has not granted a price concession significantly greater than 20 per cent in

many years.

To estimate the variable consideration to which the entity will be entitled,

the entity decides to use the expected value method (see paragraph 53(a) of

IFRS 15) because it is the method that the entity expects to better predict the

amount of consideration to which it will be entitled. Using the expected value

method, the entity estimates the transaction price to be CU80,000 (CU80 ×

1,000 products).

The entity also considers the requirements in paragraphs 56–58 of IFRS 15

on constraining estimates of variable consideration to determine whether

the estimated amount of variable consideration of CU80,000 can be included

in the transaction price. The entity considers the factors in paragraph 57 of

IFRS 15 and determines that it has significant previous experience with

this product and current market information that supports its estimate.

In addition, despite some uncertainty resulting from factors outside its

influence, based on its current market estimates, the entity expects the price

to be resolved within a short time frame. Thus, the entity concludes that it

185 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

is highly probable that a significant reversal in the cumulative amount of

revenue recognised (ie CU80,000) will not occur when the uncertainty is

resolved (ie when the total amount of price concessions is determined).

Consequently, the entity recognises CU80,000 as revenue when the products

are transferred on 1 December 20X7.

Case B—Estimate of variable consideration is constrained

The entity has experience selling similar products. However, the entity's

products have a high risk of obsolescence and the entity is experiencing

high volatility in the pricing of its products. The observable data indicate that

historically the entity grants a broad range of price concessions ranging

from 20–60 per cent of the sales price for similar products. Current market

information also suggests that a 15–50 per cent reduction in price may be

necessary to move the products through the distribution chain.

To estimate the variable consideration to which the entity will be entitled,

the entity decides to use the expected value method (see paragraph 53(a) of

IFRS 15) because it is the method that the entity expects to better predict the

amount of consideration to which it will be entitled. Using the expected value

method, the entity estimates that a discount of 40 per cent will be provided

and, therefore, the estimate of the variable consideration is CU60,000

(CU60 × 1,000 products).

The entity also considers the requirements in paragraphs 56–58 of IFRS 15

on constraining estimates of variable consideration to determine whether

some or all of the estimated amount of variable consideration of CU60,000

can be included in the transaction price. The entity considers the factors

in paragraph 57 of IFRS 15 and observes that the amount of consideration

is highly susceptible to factors outside the entity's influence (ie risk of

obsolescence) and it is likely that the entity may be required to provide

a broad range of price concessions to move the products through the

distribution chain. Consequently, the entity cannot include its estimate of

CU60,000 (ie a discount of 40 per cent) in the transaction price because

it cannot conclude that it is highly probable that a significant reversal in

the amount of cumulative revenue recognised will not occur. Although

the entity's historical price concessions have ranged from 20–60 per cent,

market information currently suggests that a price concession of 15–50 per

cent will be necessary. The entity's actual results have been consistent with

then-current market information in previous, similar transactions.

Consequently, the entity concludes that it is highly probable that a significant

reversal in the cumulative amount of revenue recognised will not occur if

the entity includes CU50,000 in the transaction price (CU100 sales price and

a 50 per cent price concession) and therefore, recognises revenue at that

amount. Therefore, the entity recognises revenue of CU50,000 when the

products are transferred and reassesses the estimates of the transaction

price at each reporting date until the uncertainty is resolved in accordance

with paragraph 59 of IFRS 15.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 186

In some situations, it is appropriate for an entity to include in the transaction

price an estimate of variable consideration that is not a possible outcome of an

individual contract. The TRG discussed this topic using the following example

from the TRG agenda paper:

200

Example of estimating variable consideration using the expected value

method

Entity A develops websites for customers. The contracts include similar terms

and conditions and contain a fixed fee, plus variable consideration for a

performance bonus related to the timing of Entity A completing the website.

Based on Entity A’s historical experience, the bonus amounts and associated

probabilities for achieving each bonus are as follows:

Bonus amount

Probability of outcome

15%

CU50

40%

CU100

45%

Entity A determines that using the expected value method would better

predict the amount of consideration to which it will be entitled than using

the most likely amount method because it has a large number of contracts

that have characteristics that are similar to the new contract.

Under the expected value method, Entity A estimates variable consideration

of CU65,000 [(0 x 15%) + (50,000 x 40%) + (100,000 x 45%)]. Entity A must

then consider the effect of applying the constraint on variable consideration.

To do this, Entity A considers the factors that could increase the likelihood of

a revenue reversal in IFRS 15.57 and concludes that it has relevant historical

experience with similar types of contracts and that the amount of

consideration is not highly susceptible to factors outside of its influence.

In determining whether the entity would include CU50,000 or CU65,000 in

the transaction price, TRG members generally agreed that when an entity

has concluded that the expected value approach is the appropriate method

to estimate variable consideration, the constraint is also applied based on

the expected value method. That is, the entity is not required to switch from

an expected value method to a most likely amount for purposes of applying

the constraint. As a result, if an entity applies the expected value method for

a particular contract, the estimated transaction price may not be a possible

outcome in an individual contract. Therefore, the entity could conclude

that, in this example, CU65,000 is the appropriate estimate of variable

consideration to include in the transaction price. It is important to note that in

this example, the entity had concluded that none of the factors in IFRS 15.57

or any other factors indicate a likelihood of a significant revenue reversal.

When an entity uses the expected value method and determines that the

estimated amount of variable consideration is not a possible outcome in the

individual contract, the entity must still consider the constraint on variable

consideration. Depending on the facts and circumstances of each contract,

an entity may need to constrain its estimate of variable consideration, even

though it has used an expected value method, if the factors in IFRS 15.57

indicate a likelihood of a significant revenue reversal. However, using

the expected value method and considering probability-weighted amounts

sometimes achieves the objective of the constraint on variable consideration.

200

TRG Agenda paper no. 38, Portfolio Practical Expedient and Application of Variable

Consideration Constraint, dated 13 July 2015.

187 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

When an entity estimates the transaction price using the expected value

method, the entity reduces the probability of a revenue reversal because

the estimate does not include all of the potential consideration due to the

probability weighting of the outcomes. In some cases, the entity may not need

to constrain the estimate of variable consideration if the factors in IFRS 15.57

do not indicate a likelihood of a significant revenue reversal.

Example 25 in the standard illustrates a situation in which a qualitative analysis

of the factors in IFRS 15.57 indicates that it is not highly probable that a

significant reversal would not occur if an entity includes a performance-based

incentive fee in the transaction price of an investment management contract.

See section 6 for a discussion of allocating the transaction price.

How we see it

Applying the constraint is a new way of evaluating variable consideration

and it applies to all types of variable consideration that must be estimated in

all transactions.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

For a number of entities, the treatment of variable consideration under IFRS 15

may have represented a significant change from previous practice. Under

legacy IFRS, preparers often deferred measurement of variable consideration

until revenue was reliably measurable, which could be when the uncertainty is

removed or when payment is received.

Furthermore, legacy IFRS permitted recognition of contingent consideration,

but only if it was probable that the economic benefits associated with the

transaction would flow to the entity and the amount of revenue could be reliably

measured.

201

Some entities, therefore, deferred recognition until the

contingency was resolved.

Previously, some entities had looked to US GAAP to develop their accounting

policies in this area. Legacy US GAAP had various requirements and thresholds

for recognising variable consideration. As a result, the accounting treatment

varied depending on which US GAAP standard was applied to a transaction.

201

IAS 18.14, IAS 18.18 and IAS 11.11.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 188

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-10: Is the constraint on variable consideration applied at the

contract or performance obligation level? [TRG meeting 26 January 2015 –

Agenda paper no. 14]

TRG members generally agreed that the constraint would be applied at

the contract level and not at the performance obligation level. That is, the

significance assessment of the potential revenue reversal would consider

the total transaction price of the contract (and not the portion of transaction

price allocated to a performance obligation).

Stakeholders raised this question because the standard refers to ‘cumulative

revenue recognised’ without specifying the level at which this assessment

would be performed (i.e., at the contract level or performance obligation

level). Furthermore, the Basis for Conclusions could be read to indicate that

the assessment should occur in relation to the cumulative revenue recognised

for a performance obligation.

202

Question 5-11: Would an entity be required to follow a two-step approach to

estimate variable consideration (i.e., first estimate the variable

consideration and then apply the constraint to that estimate)?

No. The Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that an entity is not

required to strictly follow a two-step process (i.e., first estimate the variable

consideration and then apply the constraint to that estimate) if its internal

processes incorporate the principles of both steps in a single step.

203

For

example, if an entity already has a single process to estimate expected

returns when calculating revenue from the sale of goods in a manner

consistent with the objectives of applying the constraint, the entity would

not need to estimate the transaction price and then separately apply the

constraint.

A TRG agenda paper also noted that applying the expected value method,

which requires an entity to consider probability-weighted amounts,

may sometimes achieve the objective of the constraint on variable

consideration.

204

That is, in developing its estimate of the transaction

price in accordance with the expected value method, an entity reduces the

probability of a revenue reversal and may not need to further constrain

its estimate of variable consideration. However, to meet the objective of the

constraint, the entity’s estimated transaction price would need to incorporate

its expectations of the possible consideration amounts (e.g., products not

expected to be returned) at a level at which it is highly probable that including

the estimate of variable consideration in the transaction price would not

result in a significant revenue reversal (e.g., such that it is highly probable

that additional returns above the estimated amount would not result in

a significant reversal).

202

IFRS 15.BC217.

203

IFRS 15.BC215.

204

TRG Agenda paper no. 38, Portfolio Practical Expedient and Application of Variable

Consideration Constraint, dated 13 July 2015.

189 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 5-12: How does an entity apply the constraint on variable

consideration to milestone payments?

An entity may need to apply significant judgement to determine whether and,

if so, how much of a milestone payment is constrained. Assuming the payment

is not subject to the sales-based or usage-based royalty recognition constraint

(see section 8.5), a milestone payment is a form of variable consideration that

needs to be estimated and included in the transaction price, subject to the

variable consideration constraint.

Milestone payments are often binary (i.e., the entity will either achieve the

target or desired outcome and become entitled to the milestone payment or

not). In these situations, entities generally conclude that the most likely

amount method is the better predictor of the amount to which it expects to be

entitled. The entity will then consider the constraint on variable consideration

to determine whether it is highly probable that a significant reversal in the

amount of cumulative revenue recognised will not occur when the

uncertainties related to the milestone payments have been resolved. When

assessing the significance of the potential revenue reversal of a future

milestone payment, the cumulative revenue recognised at the date of the

potential reversal would include any fixed consideration in addition to the

variable consideration for the entire contract.

Applying the constraint to milestone payments often requires significant

judgement, especially when uncertainty exists about the underlying activities

necessary to meet the target or desired outcome that entitle the entity to the

milestone payment. Entities need to analyse all facts and circumstances of

each milestone payment and consider all information (historical, current and

forecast) that is reasonably available to them to assess whether the revenue

needs to be constrained. In addition, there could be external factors that

affect an entity’s assessment of the contract and the probability of

entitlement to milestone payments. For example, we expect entities to

conclude in many instances that milestone payments contingent on

regulatory approval (e.g., regulatory approval of a new drug) are constrained,

preventing them from recognising these payments until the uncertainty

associated with the payments is resolved.

Consider the following example:

Illustration 5-4 — Milestone payments

Biotech enters into an arrangement with Pharma under which Biotech

provides a licence to a product candidate that is starting phase II clinical

studies and performs research and development services for a specified

period of time. Assume that these two promises are determined to be

distinct. Biotech receives an upfront payment upon execution of the

arrangement and may receive milestone payments upon: (1) enrolment of

a specified number of patients in a phase II clinical study; (2) completion of

phase III clinical studies, (3) regulatory approval in the US; and

(4) regulatory approval in the European Union.

Under the standard, Biotech includes in the transaction price the upfront

payment and its estimate of the milestone payments it expects to receive.

The amount of consideration that Biotech can include in the transaction

price is limited to amounts for which it is highly probable that a significant

reversal of cumulative revenues recognised under the contract will not

occur in future periods.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 190

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 5-4 — Milestone payments (cont’d)

The milestone for patient enrolment only has two possible outcomes

(e.g., Biotech enrols or does not enrol the specified number of patients).

Therefore, Biotech determines that the most likely amount method is the

better predictor of the milestone payment. It then determines that it can

include the amount associated with the enrolment milestone in the

transaction price because it is highly probable that doing so will not result

in a significant revenue reversal, based on: its prior experience with

enrolling participants in similar studies; clinical trial results on the product

candidate to date; and the significance of the milestone payment

compared to the cumulative revenues expected to be recognised under the

contract at the time of the enrolment milestone.

Due to the significant uncertainty associated with the other future events

that would result in milestone payments, however, Biotech initially

determines that it cannot include these amounts in the transaction price

(i.e., the other milestone payments are fully constrained at contract

inception). At the end of each reporting period, Biotech updates its

assessment of whether the milestone payments are constrained by

considering both the likelihood and magnitude of a potential revenue

reversal.

The evaluation of the constraint considers the probability of reversal (i.e., not

achieving the target or desired outcome) and whether any such reversal

would be significant in relation to cumulative revenue recognised to date on

the total contract. There are many variables that need to be factored into this

assessment and thus, entities should carefully evaluate each milestone to

determine when it is appropriate to include the milestone in the transaction

price.

For example, an entity may consider the variable consideration constraint

and conclude that the milestone payment is not constrained at contract

inception because including the milestone payment in the transaction price

would not result in a significant reversal of cumulative revenue in the event

that the milestone requirements are not achieved (i.e., the entity is not

entitled to the consideration). This may be the case when an entity expects to

recognise a significant amount of the contract revenue early in the life of the

contract and the milestone payment amount is not significant in relation to

the cumulative revenue that will be recognised by the time the uncertainties

related to the milestone have been resolved.

As discussed in section 5.2.4, an entity is required to update its estimate of

variable consideration (including any amounts that are constrained) at the

end of each reporting period to reflect its revised expectations of the amount

of consideration to which it expects to be entitled. For example, an entity may

initially conclude that a milestone payment is constrained and, therefore,

exclude it from the transaction price. However, in a later reporting period,

when reassessing the amount of variable consideration that should be

included in the transaction price, the entity may conclude a milestone

payment is no longer constrained even though the target or desired outcome

has not been achieved. That is, based on new information, an entity may

conclude that it expects to achieve the target or desired outcome and,

therefore, concludes that it is now highly probable that a significant revenue

reversal will not occur.

191 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

5.2.4 Reassessment of variable consideration

When a contract includes variable consideration, an entity needs to update

its estimate of the transaction price throughout the term of the contract to

depict conditions that exist at the end of each reporting period. This involves

updating the estimate of the variable consideration (including any amounts that

are constrained) to reflect an entity’s revised expectations about the amount of

consideration to which it expects to be entitled, considering uncertainties that

are resolved or new information that is gained about remaining uncertainties.

As discussed in 5.2.3, conclusions about amounts that may result in a

significant revenue reversal may change as an entity satisfies a performance

obligation. See section 6.5 for a discussion of allocating changes in the

transaction price after contract inception.

5.3 Refund liabilities

An entity may receive consideration that it will need to refund to the customer

in the future because the consideration is not an amount to which the entity

ultimately will be entitled under the contract. If an entity expects to refund

some or all of that consideration, the amounts received (or receivable) need to

be recorded as refund liabilities.

A refund liability is measured at the amount the entity ultimately expects it

will have to return to the customer and such amount is not included in the

transaction price. An entity is required to update its estimates of refund

liabilities (and the corresponding change in the transaction price) at the end

of each reporting period.

While the most common form of refund liabilities may be related to sales with

a right of return (see section 5.4), the refund liability requirements also apply

when an entity expects that it will need to refund consideration received due

to poor customer satisfaction with a service provided (i.e., there was no

good delivered or returned) and/or if an entity expects to have to provide

retrospective price reductions to a customer (e.g., if a customer reaches a

certain threshold of purchases, the unit price is retrospectively adjusted).

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-13: Is a refund liability a contract liability (and, thus, subject to

the presentation and disclosure requirements of a contract liability)?

See response to Question 10-4 in section 10.1.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 192

5.4 Rights of return (updated September 2019)

The standard notes that, in some contracts, an entity may transfer control of

a product to a customer, but grant the customer a right of return. In return, the

customer may receive a full or partial refund of any consideration paid; a credit

that can be applied against amounts owed, or that will be owed, to the entity;

another product in exchange; or any combination thereof.

205

As discussed in

section 4.7, the standard states that a right of return does not represent

a separate performance obligation. Instead, a right of return affects the

transaction price and the amount of revenue an entity can recognise for

satisfied performance obligations. In other words, rights of return create

variability in the transaction price.

Under IFRS 15, rights of return do not include exchanges by customers of one

product for another of the same type, quality, condition and price (e.g., one

colour or size for another). Nor do rights of return include situations where a

customer may return a defective product in exchange for a functioning product;

these are, instead, evaluated in accordance with the application guidance on

warranties (see section 9.1).

The standard provides the following application guidance to determine how

rights of return would be treated:

Extract from IFRS 15

B21. To account for the transfer of products with a right of return (and for

some services that are provided subject to a refund), an entity shall recognise

all of the following:

(a) revenue for the transferred products in the amount of consideration to

which the entity expects to be entitled (therefore, revenue would not be

recognised for the products expected to be returned);

(b) a refund liability; and

recover products from customers on settling the refund liability.

Under the standard, an entity estimates the transaction price and applies

the constraint to the estimated transaction price to determine the amount

of consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled. In doing so, it

considers the products expected to be returned in order to determine the

amount to which the entity expects to be entitled (excluding consideration for

the products expected to be returned). The entity recognises revenue based on

the amount to which it expects to be entitled through to the end of the return

period (considering expected product returns). An entity does not recognise

the portion of the revenue subject to the constraint until the amount is no

longer constrained, which could be at the end of the return period. The entity

recognises the amount received or receivable that is expected to be returned

as a refund liability, representing its obligation to return the customer’s

consideration (see section 5.3). Subsequently, at the end of each reporting

period, the entity updates its assessment of amounts for which it expects to

be entitled.

As part of updating its estimate, an entity must update its assessment of

expected returns and the related refund liabilities. This remeasurement is

performed at the end of each reporting period and reflects any changes in

assumptions about expected returns. Any adjustments made to the estimate

result in a corresponding adjustment to amounts recognised as revenue for

205

IFRS 15.B20.

193 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

the satisfied performance obligations (e.g., if the entity expects the number

of returns to be lower than originally estimated, it would have to increase

the amount of revenue recognised and decrease the refund liability).

Finally, when customers exercise their rights of return, the entity may receive

the returned product in a saleable or repairable condition. Under the standard,

at the time of the initial sale (i.e., when recognition of revenue is deferred due

to the anticipated return), the entity recognises a return asset (and adjusts the

cost of goods sold) for its right to recover the goods returned by the customer.

The entity initially measures this asset at the former carrying amount of the

inventory, less any expected costs to recover the goods, including any potential

decreases in the value of the returned goods. The consideration of potential

decreases in value of the returned products is important because the returned

products may not be in the same condition they were in when they were sold

(e.g., due to damage or use) and this helps to make sure that the value of the

return asset is not impaired.

Along with remeasuring the refund liability at the end of each reporting period

(as discussed above), the entity updates the measurement of the asset recorded

for any revisions to its expected level of returns, as well as any additional

potential decreases in the value of the returned products. Because the standard

includes specific remeasurement requirements for the return asset, an entity

applies those requirements, rather than other impairment models

(e.g., inventory). The standard also requires the refund liability to be presented

separately from the corresponding asset (i.e., on a gross basis, rather than a

net basis).

206

While the standard does not explicitly state this, we believe that

the return asset would generally be presented separately from inventory.

The standard provides the following example of rights of return:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 22 — Right of return (IFRS 15.IE110-IE115)

An entity enters into 100 contracts with customers. Each contract includes

the sale of one product for CU100 (100 total products × CU100 = CU10,000

total consideration). Cash is received when control of a product transfers.

The entity’s customary business practice is to allow a customer to return any

unused product within 30 days and receive a full refund. The entity’s cost of

each product is CU60.

The entity applies the requirements in IFRS 15 to the portfolio of 100

contracts because it reasonably expects that, in accordance with paragraph 4,

the effects on the financial statements from applying these requirements to

the portfolio would not differ materially from applying the requirements to

the individual contracts within the portfolio.

Because the contract allows a customer to return the products, the

consideration received from the customer is variable. To estimate the variable

consideration to which the entity will be entitled, the entity decides to use

the expected value method (see paragraph 53(a) of IFRS 15) because it is the

method that the entity expects to better predict the amount of consideration

to which it will be entitled. Using the expected value method, the entity

estimates that 97 products will not be returned.

206

IFRS 15.B25.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 194

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

The entity also considers the requirements in paragraphs 56–58 of IFRS 15

on constraining estimates of variable consideration to determine whether

the estimated amount of variable consideration of CU9,700 (CU100 × 97

products not expected to be returned) can be included in the transaction price.

The entity considers the factors in paragraph 57 of IFRS 15 and determines

that although the returns are outside the entity’s influence, it has significant

experience in estimating returns for this product and customer class. In

addition, the uncertainty will be resolved within a short time frame (ie the

30-day return period). Thus, the entity concludes that it is highly probable

that a significant reversal in the cumulative amount of revenue recognised

(ie CU9,700) will not occur as the uncertainty is resolved (ie over the return

period).

The entity estimates that the costs of recovering the products will be

immaterial and expects that the returned products can be resold at a profit.

Upon transfer of control of the 100 products, the entity does not recognise

revenue for the three products that it expects to be returned. Consequently,

in accordance with paragraphs 55 and B21 of IFRS 15, the entity recognises

the following:

(a) revenue of CU9,700 (CU100 × 97 products not expected to be returned);

(b) a refund liability of CU300 (CU100 refund × 3 products expected to be

returned); and

from customers on settling the refund liability).

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

While IFRS 15’s accounting treatment for rights of return may not have

significantly changed practice from legacy IFRS, there are some notable

differences. Under IFRS 15, an entity estimates the transaction price and apply

the constraint to the estimated transaction price. In doing so, it considers the

products expected to be returned in order to determine the amount to which

the entity expects to be entitled (excluding the products expected to be

returned).

Consistent with Legacy IFRS, IFRS 15 requires an entity to recognise the

amount of expected returns as a refund liability, representing its obligation to

return the customer’s consideration. If the entity estimates returns and applies

the constraint, the portion of the revenue that is subject to the constraint is not

recognised until the amounts are no longer constrained, which could be at the

end of the return period. The classification in the statement of financial position

for amounts related to the right of return asset may be a change from previous

practice. Under legacy IFRS, an entity typically recognised a liability and

corresponding expense, but may not have recognised a return asset for the

inventory that may be returned, as is required by IFRS 15. In addition, the right

to receive returned product is recognised as a return asset and IFRS 15 requires

the refund liability to be presented separately from the corresponding asset (on

a gross basis, rather than a net basis).

195 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

How we see it

The topic of product sales with rights of return is one that has not received

as much attention as other topics for a variety of reasons. However, the

changes in this area (primarily treating the right of return as a type of

variable consideration to which the variable consideration requirements

apply, including the constraint) may affect manufacturers and retailers

that, otherwise, would not be significantly affected by IFRS 15. Entities

need to assess whether their previous methods for estimating returns are

appropriate, given the need to consider the constraint.

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-14: Is an entity applying the portfolio approach practical

expedient when accounting for rights of return? [TRG meeting 13 July

2015 – Agenda paper no. 38]

An entity can, but would not be required to, apply the portfolio approach

practical expedient to estimate variable consideration for expected returns

using the expected value method. Similar to the discussion in section 5.2.2 on

estimating variable consideration, the TRG agenda paper noted that an entity

can consider evidence from other, similar contracts to develop an estimate

of variable consideration using the expected value method without applying

the portfolio approach practical expedient. In order to estimate variable

consideration in a contract, an entity frequently makes judgements

considering its historical experience with other, similar contracts. Considering

historical experience does not necessarily mean the entity is applying the

portfolio approach practical expedient.

This question arises, in part, because Example 22 from the standard (in

the extract above) states that the entity is using the portfolio approach

practical expedient in IFRS 15.4 to calculate its estimate of returns. Use of

this practical expedient requires an entity to assert that it does not expect

the use of the expedient to differ materially from applying the standard to

an individual contract.

We expect that entities often use the expected value method to estimate

variable consideration related to returns because doing so would likely better

predict the amount of consideration to which the entities will be entitled. This

is despite the fact that there are two potential outcomes for each contract

from the variability of product returns: the product either will be returned or

will not be returned. That is, the revenue for each contract ultimately either

will be 100% or will be 0% of the total contract value (assuming returns

create the only variability in the contract). However, entities may conclude

that the expected value is the appropriate method for estimating variable

consideration because they have a large number of contracts with similar

characteristics. The TRG agenda paper noted that using a portfolio of data is

not equivalent to using the portfolio approach practical expedient, so entities

that use the expected value method to estimate variable consideration for

returns would not be required to assert that the outcome from the portfolio is

not expected to materially differ from an assessment of individual contracts.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 196

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 5-15: How should an entity account for restocking fees for goods

that are expected to be returned? [TRG meeting 13 July 2015 – Agenda

paper no. 35]

Entities sometimes charge customers a ‘restocking fee’ when a product is

returned. This fee may be levied by entities to compensate them for the costs

of repackaging, shipping and/or reselling the item at a lower price to another

customer. Stakeholders had raised questions about how to account for

restocking fees and related costs.

TRG members generally agreed that restocking fees for goods that are

expected to be returned would be included in the estimate of the transaction

price at contract inception and recorded as revenue when (or as) control of

the good transfers.

For example, assume that an entity enters into a contract with a customer

to sell 10 widgets for CU100 each. The customer has the right to return the

widgets, but, if it does so, it will be charged a 10% restocking fee (or CU10

per returned widget). The entity estimates that 10% of all widgets that are

sold will be returned. Upon transfer of control of the 10 widgets, the entity

will recognise revenue of CU910 [(9 widgets not expected to be returned x

CU100 selling price) + (1 widget expected to be returned x CU10 restocking

fee)]. A refund liability of CU90 will also be recorded [1 widget expected to

be returned x (CU100 selling price - CU10 restocking fee)].

Question 5-16: How should an entity account for restocking costs related

to expected returns (e.g., shipping or repackaging costs)? [TRG meeting

13 July 2015 – Agenda paper no. 35]

TRG members generally agreed that restocking costs (e.g., shipping and

repackaging costs) would be recorded as a reduction of the amount of the

return asset when (or as) control of the good transfers. This accounting

treatment is consistent with the revenue standard’s requirement that the

return asset be initially measured at the former carrying amount of the

inventory, less any expected costs to recover the goods (e.g., restocking

costs).

Question 5-17: How can an entity evaluate a conditional call option to

repurchase an asset?

See response to Question 7-22 in section 7.3.1.

197 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

5.5 Significant financing component (updated September 2019)

For some transactions, the receipt of the consideration does not match

the timing of the transfer of goods or services to the customer (e.g., the

consideration is prepaid or is paid after the services are provided). When

the customer pays in arrears, the entity is effectively providing financing to

the customer. Conversely, when the customer pays in advance, the entity has

effectively received financing from the customer.

IFRS 15 states the following in relation to a significant financing component

in a contract:

Extract from IFRS 15

60. In determining the transaction price, an entity shall adjust the promised

amount of consideration for the effects of the time value of money if the

timing of payments agreed to by the parties to the contract (either explicitly

or implicitly) provides the customer or the entity with a significant benefit

of financing the transfer of goods or services to the customer. In those

circumstances, the contract contains a significant financing component.

A significant financing component may exist regardless of whether the

promise of financing is explicitly stated in the contract or implied by the

payment terms agreed to by the parties to the contract.

61. The objective when adjusting the promised amount of consideration for

a significant financing component is for an entity to recognise revenue at

an amount that reflects the price that a customer would have paid for the

promised goods or services if the customer had paid cash for those goods or

services when (or as) they transfer to the customer (ie the cash selling price).

An entity shall consider all relevant facts and circumstances in assessing

whether a contract contains a financing component and whether that

financing component is significant to the contract, including both of the

following:

(a) the difference, if any, between the amount of promised consideration and

the cash selling price of the promised goods or services; and

(b) the combined effect of both of the following:

(i) the expected length of time between when the entity transfers the

promised goods or services to the customer and when the customer

pays for those goods or services; and

(ii) the prevailing interest rates in the relevant market.

62. Notwithstanding the assessment in paragraph 61, a contract with a

customer would not have a significant financing component if any of the

following factors exist:

(a) the customer paid for the goods or services in advance and the timing of

the transfer of those goods or services is at the discretion of the

customer.

(b) a substantial amount of the consideration promised by the customer is

variable and the amount or timing of that consideration varies on the basis

of the occurrence or non-occurrence of a future event that is not

substantially within the control of the customer or the entity (for example,

if the consideration is a sales-based royalty).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 198

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

price of the good or service (as described in paragraph 61) arises for

reasons other than the provision of finance to either the customer or the

entity, and the difference between those amounts is proportional to the

reason for the difference. For example, the payment terms might provide

the entity or the customer with protection from the other party failing to

adequately complete some or all of its obligations under the contract.

63. As a practical expedient, an entity need not adjust the promised amount of

consideration for the effects of a significant financing component if the entity

expects, at contract inception, that the period between when the entity

transfers a promised good or service to a customer and when the customer

pays for that good or service will be one year or less.

64. To meet the objective in paragraph 61 when adjusting the promised

amount of consideration for a significant financing component, an entity

shall use the discount rate that would be reflected in a separate financing

transaction between the entity and its customer at contract inception. That

rate would reflect the credit characteristics of the party receiving financing in

the contract, as well as any collateral or security provided by the customer

or the entity, including assets transferred in the contract. An entity may be

able to determine that rate by identifying the rate that discounts the nominal

amount of the promised consideration to the price that the customer would

pay in cash for the goods or services when (or as) they transfer to the

customer. After contract inception, an entity shall not update the discount

rate for changes in interest rates or other circumstances (such as a change

in the assessment of the customer's credit risk).

The Board explained in the Basis for Conclusions that, conceptually, a contract

that includes a financing component is comprised of two transactions — one for

the sale of goods and/or services and one for the financing.

207

Accordingly,

the Board decided to require entities to adjust the amount of promised

consideration for the effects of financing only if the timing of payments

specified in the contract provides the customer or the entity with a significant

benefit of financing. The IASB’s objective in requiring entities to adjust the

promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing

component is for entities to recognise as revenue the ‘cash selling price’ of the

underlying goods or services at the time of transfer.

208

Practical expedient

As a practical expedient, an entity is not required to adjust the promised

amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component if

the entity expects, at contract inception, that the period between when the

entity transfers a promised good or service to a customer and when the

customer pays for that good or service will be one year or less. The Board

added this practical expedient to the standard because it simplifies the

application of this aspect of IFRS 15 and because the effect of accounting for a

significant financing component (or of not doing so) should be limited in

financing arrangements with a duration of less than 12 months.

209

If an entity

uses this practical expedient, it would apply the expedient consistently to similar

contracts in similar circumstances.

210

207

IFRS 15.BC229.

208

IFRS 15.BC230.

209

IFRS 15.BC236.

210

IFRS 15.BC235.

199 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

It is important to note that if the period between when the entity transfers a

promised good or service to a customer and the customer pays for that good

or service is more than one year and the financing component is deemed to be

significant, the entity must account for the entire financing component. That

is, an entity cannot exclude the first 12 months of the period between when

the entity transfers a promised good or service to a customer and when the

customer pays for that good or service from the calculation of the potential

adjustment to the transaction price. An entity also cannot exclude the first 12

months in its determination of whether the financing component of a contract

is significant.

Entities may need to apply judgement to determine whether the practical

expedient applies to some contracts. For example, the standard does not

specify whether entities should assess the period between payment and

performance at the contract level or at the performance obligation level. In

addition, the TRG discussed how an entity should consider whether the practical

expedient applies to contracts with a single payment stream for multiple

performance obligations. See Question 5-21 below.

Existence of a significant financing component

Absent the use of the practical expedient, to determine whether a significant

financing component exists, an entity needs to consider all relevant facts

and circumstances, including:

(1) The difference between the cash selling price and the amount of promised

consideration for the promised goods or services.

And

(2) The combined effect of the expected length of time between the transfer

of the goods or services and the receipt of consideration and the prevailing

market interest rates. The Board acknowledged that a difference in the

timing between the transfer of and payment for goods or services is not

determinative, but the combined effect of timing and the prevailing interest

rates may provide a strong indication that an entity is providing or receiving

a significant benefit of financing.

211

Even if conditions in a contract would otherwise indicate that a significant

financing component exists, the standard includes several situations that

the Board has determined do not provide the customer or the entity with

a significant benefit of financing. These situations, as described in IFRS 15.62,

include the following:

• The customer has paid for the goods or services in advance and the

timing of the transfer of those goods or services is at the discretion of

the customer. In these situations (e.g., prepaid phone cards, customer

loyalty programmes), the Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that

the payment terms are not related to a financing arrangement between

the parties and the costs of requiring an entity to account for a significant

financing component would outweigh the benefits because an entity would

need to continually estimate when the goods or services will transfer to

the customer.

212

• A substantial amount of the consideration promised by the customer is

variable and is based on factors outside the control of the customer or

entity. In these situations, the Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions

that the primary purpose of the timing or terms of payment may be to allow

for the resolution of uncertainties that relate to the consideration, rather

211

IFRS 15.BC232.

212

IFRS 15.BC233.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 200

than to provide the customer or the entity with the significant benefit of

financing. In addition, the terms or timing of payment in these situations

may be to provide the parties with assurance of the value of the goods or

services (e.g., an arrangement for which consideration is in the form of a

sales-based royalty).

213

• The difference between the promised consideration and the cash selling

price of the good or service arises for reasons other than the provision of

financing to either the customer or the entity (e.g., a payment is made in

advance or in arrears in accordance with the typical payment terms of

the industry or jurisdiction). In certain situations, the Board determined

the purpose of the payment terms may be to provide the customer with

assurance that the entity will complete its obligations under the contract,

rather than to provide financing to the customer or the entity. Examples

include a customer withholding a portion of the consideration until the

contract is complete (illustrated in Example 27 below) or a milestone

is reached, or an entity requiring a customer to pay a portion of the

consideration upfront in order to secure a future supply of goods or

services. See Question 5-18 for further discussion.

Advance payments

As explained in the Basis for Conclusions, the Board decided not to provide an

overall exemption from accounting for the effects of a significant financing

component arising from advance payments. This is because ignoring the effects

of advance payments may skew the amount and timing of revenue recognised if

the advance payment is significant and the purpose of the payment is to provide

the entity with financing.

214

For example, an entity may require a customer to

make advance payments to avoid obtaining the financing from a third party. If

the entity obtained third-party financing, it would likely charge the customer

additional amounts to cover the finance costs incurred. The Board decided that

an entity’s revenue should be consistent regardless of whether it receives the

significant financing benefit from a customer or from a third party because, in

either scenario, the entity’s performance is the same.

In order to conclude that an advance payment does not represent a significant

financing component, we believe that an entity needs to support why the

advance payment does not provide a significant financing benefit and describe

its substantive business purpose.

215

As a result, it is important that entities

analyse all of the relevant facts and circumstances. Example 29 below

illustrates an entity’s determination that a customer’s advance payment

represents a significant financing component. Example 30 illustrates an entity’s

determination that a customer’s advance payment does not represent a

significant financing component.

Assessment of significance

The assessment of significance is made at the individual contract level. As

noted in the Basis for Conclusions, the Board decided that it would be an undue

burden to require an entity to account for a financing component if the effects

of the financing component are not significant to the individual contract, but

the combined effects of the financing components for a portfolio of similar

contracts would be material to the entity as a whole.

216

213

IFRS 15.BC233.

214

IFRS 15.BC238.

215

Consistent with the discussions within TRG Agenda paper no. 30, Significant Financing

Components, dated 30 March 2015.

216

IFRS 15.BC234.

201 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Determination of the discount rate

When an entity concludes that a financing component is significant to a contract,

in accordance with IFRS 15.64, it determines the transaction price by applying

an interest rate to the amount of promised consideration.

The entity uses the same interest rate that it would use if it were to enter into a

separate financing transaction with the customer at contract inception. The

interest rate needs to reflect the credit characteristics of the borrower in the

contract, which could be either the entity or the customer (depending on who

receives the financing). Using the risk-free rate or a rate explicitly stated in the

contract that does not correspond with a separate financing rate would not be

acceptable.

217

Example 28, Case B (shown below) illustrates a contractual

discount rate that does not reflect the rate in a separate financing transaction.

Furthermore, using a contract’s implicit interest rate (i.e., the interest rate that

would make alternative payment options economically equivalent) would also

not be acceptable if that rate does not reflect the rate in a separate financing

transaction (as illustrated in Example 29, included in section 5.5.1 below).

While not explicitly stated in the standard, we believe an entity would consider

the expected term of the financing when determining the interest rate in light of

current market conditions at contract inception. In addition, IFRS 15.64 is clear

that an entity does not update the interest rate for changes in circumstances or

market interest rates after contract inception.

How we see it

The standard requires that the interest rate be a rate similar to what

the entity would have used in a separate financing transaction with the

customer. Because most entities are not in the business of entering into

free-standing financing arrangements with their customers, they may find

it difficult to identify an appropriate rate. However, most entities perform

some level of credit analysis before financing purchases for a customer,

so they likely have some information about the customer’s credit risk. For

entities that have different pricing for products depending on the time of

payment (e.g., cash discounts), the standard indicates that the appropriate

interest rate, in some cases, could be determined by identifying the rate that

discounts the nominal amount of the promised consideration to the cash

sales price of the good or service.

Entities likely have to exercise significant judgement to determine whether

a significant financing component exists when there is more than one year

between the transfer of goods or services and the receipt of contract

consideration. Entities should consider sufficiently documenting their

analyses to support their conclusions.

5.5.1 Examples of significant financing components (updated September

2019)

The standard includes several examples to illustrate these concepts.

Example 26 illustrates a contract that contains a significant financing

component because the cash selling price at contract inception differs from the

promised amount of consideration payable after delivery and there are no other

factors present that would indicate that this difference arises for reasons other

than financing. In this example, the implicit interest rate in the contract is

determined to be commensurate with the rate that would be reflected in a

217

IFRS 15.BC239.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 202

separate financing transaction between the entity and its customer at contract

inception.

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 26 — Significant financing component and right of return

(IFRS 15.IE135-IE140)

An entity sells a product to a customer for CU121 that is payable 24 months

after delivery. The customer obtains control of the product at contract

inception. The contract permits the customer to return the product within

90 days. The product is new and the entity has no relevant historical evidence

of product returns or other available market evidence.

The cash selling price of the product is CU100, which represents the amount

that the customer would pay upon delivery for the same product sold under

otherwise identical terms and conditions as at contract inception. The entity’s

cost of the product is CU80.

The entity does not recognise revenue when control of the product transfers

to the customer. This is because the existence of the right of return and the

lack of relevant historical evidence means that the entity cannot conclude that

it is highly probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative

revenue recognised will not occur in accordance with paragraphs 56–58 of

IFRS 15. Consequently, revenue is recognised after three months when the

right of return lapses.

The contract includes a significant financing component, in accordance with

paragraphs 60–62 of IFRS 15. This is evident from the difference between

the amount of promised consideration of CU121 and the cash selling price

of CU100 at the date that the goods are transferred to the customer.

The contract includes an implicit interest rate of 10 per cent (ie the interest

rate that over 24 months discounts the promised consideration of CU121 to

the cash selling price of CU100). The entity evaluates the rate and concludes

that it is commensurate with the rate that would be reflected in a separate

financing transaction between the entity and its customer at contract

inception. The following journal entries illustrate how the entity accounts

for this contract in accordance with paragraphs B20–B27 of IFRS 15.

(a) When the product is transferred to the customer, in accordance with

paragraph B21 of IFRS 15:

Asset for right to recover product to

be returned

CU80

(a)

Inventory

CU80

(a) This example does not consider expected costs to recover the asset.

(b) During the three-month right of return period, no interest is recognised in

accordance with paragraph 65 of IFRS 15 because no contract asset or

receivable has been recognised.

203 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

Receivable

CU100

(a)

Revenue

CU100

Cost of sales

CU80

Asset for product to be returned

CU80

(a) The receivable recognised would be measured in accordance with IFRS 9. This

example assumes there is no material difference between the fair value of the

receivable at contract inception and the fair value of the receivable when it is

recognised at the time the right of return lapses. In addition, this example does

not consider the impairment accounting for the receivable.

Until the entity receives the cash payment from the customer, interest

revenue would be recognised in accordance with IFRS 9. In determining the

effective interest rate in accordance with IFRS 9, the entity would consider

the remaining contractual term.

Example 26 also illustrates the requirement in IFRS 15.65, which provides

that interest income or interest expense is recognised only to the extent that a

contract asset (or receivable) or a contract liability is recognised in accounting

for a contract with a customer. See further discussion in section 5.5.2.

In Example 27, the difference between the promised consideration and the cash

selling price of the good or service arises for reasons other than the provision

of financing. In this example, the customer withholds a portion of each payment

until the contract is complete in order to protect itself from the entity failing to

complete its obligations under the contract, as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 27 — Withheld payments on a long-term contract (IFRS 15.IE141-

IE142)

An entity enters into a contract for the construction of a building that

includes scheduled milestone payments for the performance by the entity

throughout the contract term of three years. The performance obligation

will be satisfied over time and the milestone payments are scheduled to

coincide with the entity's expected performance. The contract provides

that a specified percentage of each milestone payment is to be withheld (ie

retained) by the customer throughout the arrangement and paid to the entity

only when the building is complete.

The entity concludes that the contract does not include a significant financing

component. The milestone payments coincide with the entity's performance

and the contract requires amounts to be retained for reasons other than

the provision of finance in accordance with paragraph 62(c) of IFRS 15. The

withholding of a specified percentage of each milestone payment is intended

to protect the customer from the contractor failing to adequately complete

its obligations under the contract.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 204

Example 28 illustrates two situations. In one, a contractual discount rate

reflects the rate in a separate financing transaction. In the other, it does not.

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 28 — Determining the discount rate (IFRS 15.IE143-IE147)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to sell equipment. Control

of the equipment transfers to the customer when the contract is signed. The

price stated in the contract is CU1 million plus a five per cent contractual rate

of interest, payable in 60 monthly instalments of CU18,871.

Case A—Contractual discount rate reflects the rate in a separate financing

transaction

In evaluating the discount rate in the contract that contains a significant

financing component, the entity observes that the five per cent contractual

rate of interest reflects the rate that would be used in a separate financing

transaction between the entity and its customer at contract inception (ie the

contractual rate of interest of five per cent reflects the credit characteristics

of the customer).

The market terms of the financing mean that the cash selling price of the

equipment is CU1 million. This amount is recognised as revenue and as

a loan receivable when control of the equipment transfers to the customer.

The entity accounts for the receivable in accordance with IFRS 9.

Case B—Contractual discount rate does not reflect the rate in a separate

financing transaction

In evaluating the discount rate in the contract that contains a significant

financing component, the entity observes that the five per cent contractual

rate of interest is significantly lower than the 12 per cent interest rate that

would be used in a separate financing transaction between the entity and

its customer at contract inception (ie the contractual rate of interest of

five per cent does not reflect the credit characteristics of the customer).

This suggests that the cash selling price is less than CU1 million.

In accordance with paragraph 64 of IFRS 15, the entity determines the

transaction price by adjusting the promised amount of consideration to

reflect the contractual payments using the 12 per cent interest rate that

reflects the credit characteristics of the customer. Consequently, the entity

determines that the transaction price is CU848,357 (60 monthly payments

of CU18,871 discounted at 12 per cent). The entity recognises revenue and

a loan receivable for that amount. The entity accounts for the loan receivable

in accordance with IFRS 9.

205 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Example 29 illustrates a contract with an advance payment from the customer

that the entity concludes represents a significant benefit of financing. It also

illustrates a situation in which the implicit interest rate does not reflect the

interest rate that would be used in a separate financing transaction between

the entity and its customer at contract inception, as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 29 — Advance payment and assessment of discount rate

(IFRS 15.IE148-IE151)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to sell an asset. Control

of the asset will transfer to the customer in two years (ie the performance

obligation will be satisfied at a point in time). The contract includes two

alternative payment options: payment of CU5,000 in two years when the

customer obtains control of the asset or payment of CU4,000 when the

contract is signed. The customer elects to pay CU4,000 when the contract

is signed.

The entity concludes that the contract contains a significant financing

component because of the length of time between when the customer pays

for the asset and when the entity transfers the asset to the customer, as

well as the prevailing interest rates in the market.

The interest rate implicit in the transaction is 11.8 per cent, which is

the interest rate necessary to make the two alternative payment options

economically equivalent. However, the entity determines that, in accordance

with paragraph 64 of IFRS 15, the rate to be used in adjusting the promised

consideration is six per cent, which is the entity's incremental borrowing rate.

The following journal entries illustrate how the entity would account for

the significant financing component:

(1) recognise a contract liability for the CU4,000 payment received at

contract inception:

Cash

CU4,000

Contract liability

CU4,000

(2) during the two years from contract inception until the transfer of the

asset, the entity adjusts the promised amount of consideration (in

accordance with paragraph 65 of IFRS 15) and accretes the contract

liability by recognising interest on CU4,000 at six per cent for two years:

Interest expense

CU494

(a)

Contract liability

CU494

(a) CU494 = CU4,000 contract liability × (6 per cent interest per year for two years).

(3) recognise revenue for the transfer of the asset:

Contract liability

CU4,494

Revenue

CU4,494

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 206

In Example 30, involving a contract with an advance payment from the

customer, the entity determines that a significant financing component does

not exist because the difference between the amount of promised consideration

and the cash selling price of the good or service arises for reasons other than

the provision of financing, as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 30 — Advance payment (IFRS 15.IE152-IE154)

An entity, a technology product manufacturer, enters into a contract with

a customer to provide global telephone technology support and repair

coverage for three years along with its technology product. The customer

purchases this support service at the time of buying the product.

Consideration for the service is an additional CU300. Customers electing

to buy this service must pay for it upfront (ie a monthly payment option is

not available).

To determine whether there is a significant financing component in the

contract, the entity considers the nature of the service being offered

and the purpose of the payment terms. The entity charges a single upfront

amount, not with the primary purpose of obtaining financing from the

customer but, instead, to maximise profitability, taking into consideration

the risks associated with providing the service. Specifically, if customers

could pay monthly, they would be less likely to renew and the population

of customers that continue to use the support service in the later years

may become smaller and less diverse over time (ie customers that choose

to renew historically are those that make greater use of the service, thereby

increasing the entity's costs). In addition, customers tend to use services

more if they pay monthly rather than making an upfront payment. Finally,

the entity would incur higher administration costs such as the costs related

to administering renewals and collection of monthly payments.

In assessing the requirements in paragraph 62(c) of IFRS 15, the entity

determines that the payment terms were structured primarily for reasons

other than the provision of finance to the entity. The entity charges a single

upfront amount for the services because other payment terms (such as

a monthly payment plan) would affect the nature of the risks assumed by

the entity to provide the service and may make it uneconomical to provide

the service. As a result of its analysis, the entity concludes that there is not

a significant financing component.

207 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-18: The standard states that a significant financing component

does not exist if the difference between the promised consideration and the

cash selling price of the good or service arises for reasons other than the

provision of finance. How broadly would this factor be applied? [TRG

meeting 30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 30]

According to IFRS 15, a significant financing component does not exist if the

difference between the promised consideration and the cash selling price of

the good or service arises for reasons other than the provision of finance.

218

TRG members discussed how broadly this factor would be applied.

TRG members generally agreed that there is likely significant judgement

involved in determining whether either party is providing financing or

the payment terms are for another reason. TRG members also generally

agreed that the Board did not seem to intend to create a presumption that

a significant financing component exists if the cash selling price differs from

the promised consideration.

The TRG agenda paper noted that, although IFRS 15.61 states that the

measurement objective for a significant financing component is to recognise

revenue for the goods or services at an amount that reflects the cash selling

price, this measurement objective is only followed when an entity has already

determined that a significant financing component exists. The fact that there

is a difference in the promised consideration and the cash selling price is not

a principle for determining whether a significant financing component

actually exists. It is only one factor to consider.

Many TRG members noted that it requires significant judgement in some

circumstances to determine whether a transaction includes a significant

financing component.

Question 5-19: If the promised consideration is equal to the cash selling

price, does a financing component exist? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015 –

Agenda paper no. 30]

TRG members generally agreed that even if the list price, cash selling price

and promised consideration of a good or service are all equal, an entity

should not automatically assume that a significant financing component

does not exist. This would be a factor to consider, but it would not be

determinative.

As discussed above in Question 5-18, while IFRS 15.61 states that the

measurement objective for a significant financing component is to recognise

revenue for the goods or services at an amount that reflects the cash selling

price, this measurement objective is only followed when an entity has already

determined that a significant financing component exists. The fact that there

is no difference between the promised consideration and the cash selling

price is not determinative in the evaluation of whether a significant financing

component actually exists. It is a factor to consider, but it is not the only

factor and is not determinative. As discussed above, an entity needs to

consider all facts and circumstances in this evaluation.

218

IFRS 15.62(c).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 208

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

The TRG agenda paper noted that the list price may not always equal the cash

selling price (i.e., the price that a customer would have paid for the promised

goods or services if the customer had paid cash for those goods or services

when (or as) they transfer to the customer, as defined in IFRS 15.61). For

example, if a customer offers to pay cash upfront when the entity is offering

‘free’ financing to customers, the customer that offers the upfront payment

may be able to pay less than the list price. Determining a ‘cash selling price’

may require judgement and the fact that an entity provides ‘interest-free

financing’ does not necessarily mean that the cash selling price is the same

as the price another customer would pay over time. Entities would have to

consider the cash selling price in comparison to the promised consideration

in making the evaluation based on the overall facts and circumstances of

the arrangement.

This notion is consistent with IFRS 15.77 on allocating the transaction

price to performance obligations based on stand-alone selling prices (see

section 6.1), which indicates that a contractually stated price or a list price

for a good or service may be (but is not presumed to be) the stand-alone

selling price of that good or service. The TRG agenda paper noted that it

may be possible for a financing component to exist, but that it may not

be significant. As discussed above in this section, entities need to apply

judgement in determining whether the financing component is significant.

Question 5-20: Does the standard preclude accounting for financing

components that are not significant? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015 –

Agenda paper no. 30]

TRG members generally agreed that the standard does not preclude an entity

from deciding to account for a financing component that is not significant.

For example, an entity may have a portfolio of contracts in which there

is a mix of significant and insignificant financing components. An entity

could choose to account for all of the financing components as if they were

significant in order to avoid having to apply different accounting methods

to each.

An entity electing to apply the requirements for significant financing

components to an insignificant financing component would need to be

consistent in its application to all similar contracts with similar circumstances.

209 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 5-21: The standard includes a practical expedient that allows

an entity not to assess a contract for a significant financing component if

the period between the customer’s payment and the entity’s transfer of

the goods or services is one year or less.

219

How should entities consider

whether the practical expedient applies to contracts with a single payment

stream for multiple performance obligations? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015

– Agenda paper no. 30]

TRG members generally agreed that entities either apply an approach of

allocating any consideration received:

(1) To the earliest good or service delivered

(2) Proportionately between the goods or services depending on the facts

and circumstances

The TRG agenda paper on this topic provided an example of a

telecommunications entity that enters into a two-year contract to provide

a device at contract inception and related data services over 24 months

in exchange for 24 equal monthly instalments.

220

Under approach (1) above,

an entity would be allowed to apply the practical expedient because the

period between transfer of the good or service and customer payment would

be less than one year for both the device and the related services. This is

because, in the example provided, the device would be ’paid off’ after five

months.

Under approach (2) above, an entity would not be able to apply the

practical expedient because the device would be deemed to be paid off over

the full 24 months (i.e., greater than one year).

Approach (2) above may be appropriate in circumstances similar to the

example in the TRG agenda paper, when the cash payment is not directly tied

to a particular good or service in a contract. Approach (1) may be appropriate

when the cash payment is directly tied to the earliest good or service

delivered. However, TRG members noted it may be difficult to tie a cash

payment directly to a good or service because cash is fungible. Accordingly,

judgement is required based on the facts and circumstances.

Question 5-22: If a significant financing component exists in a contract,

how does an entity calculate the adjustment to revenue? [TRG meeting

30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 30]

TRG members generally agreed that the standard does not contain

requirements for how to calculate the adjustment to the transaction price

due to a significant financing component. A financing component is

recognised as interest expense (when the customer pays in advance) or

interest income (when the customer pays in arrears). Entities need to

consider requirements outside IFRS 15 to determine the appropriate

accounting treatment (i.e., IFRS 9).

219

IFRS 15.63.

220

TRG Agenda paper no. 30, Significant Financing Components, dated 30 March 2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 210

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 5-23: How should an entity allocate a significant financing

component when there are multiple performance obligations in a contract?

[TRG meeting 30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 30]

The standard is clear that, when determining the transaction price in Step 3

of the model, the effect of financing is excluded from the transaction price

prior to the allocation of the transaction price to performance obligations

(which occurs in Step 4). However, stakeholders had questioned whether an

adjustment for a significant financing component could ever be attributed

to only one or some of the performance obligations in the contract, rather

than to all of the performance obligations in the contract. This is because

the standard only includes examples in which there is a single performance

obligation.

TRG members generally agreed that it may be reasonable for an entity to

attribute a significant financing component to one or more, but not all, of the

performance obligations in the contract. In doing so, the entity may analogise

to the exceptions for allocating variable consideration and/or discounts to

one or more (but not all) performance obligations, if specified criteria are met

(see sections 6.3 and 6.4, respectively). However, attribution of a financing

component to one (or some) of the performance obligations requires the use

of judgement, especially because cash is fungible.

Question 5-24: Is an entity required to evaluate whether a customer option

that provides a material right includes a significant financing component? If

so, how would entities perform this evaluation? [TRG meeting 30 March

2015 – Agenda paper no. 32]

See response to Question 4-19 in section 4.6.

Question 5-25: Can an entity consider an interest expense arising from a

customer contract with a significant financing component as borrowing

costs eligible for capitalisation?

IAS 23

Borrowing Costs

requires borrowing costs to be capitalised if they

are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of

a qualifying asset (whether or not the funds have been borrowed specifically

for that purpose).

221

IAS 23 and IFRS 15 do not specifically address whether

interest expense arising from a customer contract with a significant financing

component can be considered as borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation.

According to IAS 23, borrowing costs are “interest and other costs that an

entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds.”

222

Interest expense

arising from customer contracts with a significant financing component

might qualify as borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation if they are directly

attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying

asset.

221

IAS 23.8

222

IAS 23.5 and IAS 23.6

211 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

For most revenue transactions, it is likely that entities would be considering

inventory when determining whether there is a qualifying asset. According

to IAS 23, inventory can be a qualifying asset, but “… inventories that are

manufactured, or otherwise produced, over a short period of time, are not

qualifying assets. Assets that are ready for their intended use or sale when

acquired are also not qualifying assets.”

223

Significant judgement may be

needed to determine whether inventories take a substantial period of time

to manufacture or produce before being ready for their intended use or

sale. However, it may be helpful for an entity to consider how it satisfies its

performance obligations as part of this determination. In particular, entities

should note that, if a performance obligation is satisfied over time, by

definition, the customer obtains control of the good or service (and the entity

derecognises any related inventory) as the entity performs. As discussed in

Question 7-16 in section 7.1.4.C, its performance should not result in the

creation of a material asset in the entity’s accounts (e.g., work in progress).

It is also important to note that capitalisation of borrowing costs is not

required by IAS 23 for inventories that are manufactured, or otherwise

produced, in large quantities on a repetitive basis even if they meet the

definition of a qualifying asset.

224

In late 2018, the IFRS IC received a request about the capitalisation of

borrowing costs in relation to assets being developed for sale for which

revenue is recognised over time as control transfers to the customer as the

asset is constructed.

At its March 2019 meeting, the IFRS IC noted that, when applying IAS 23 an

entity assesses whether there is a qualifying asset (i.e., an asset that

necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use

or sale). The request referred to real estate units, which may take a

substantial period of time to construct. However, the IFRS IC concluded that:

•

For any sold units

: there is no qualifying asset. When any of the criteria in

IFRS 15.35 are met (and revenue is recognised over time), control

transfers to the customer as the entity performs. Therefore, the entity

holds no inventory. Instead, it recognises a receivable or contract asset

for its right to receive consideration in exchange for its performance to

date. IAS 23 explicitly states that receivables are not a qualifying

asset.

225

Like receivables, the intended use of a contract assets is to

collect cash (or another asset), which is not a use for which it necessarily

takes a substantial period of time to get ready. Therefore, the IFRS IC

observed that contract assets are also not qualifying assets.

•

For any unsold units

: any inventory (work-in-progress) for unsold units

under construction is not a qualifying asset if: (i) the entity intends to sell

the part-completed units as soon as it finds suitable customers – this is

because the units are already ready for sale in their part-completed state;

and (ii) control of the part-completed units transfers to the customer on

signing the contract (which is the case if revenue is recognised over

time).

226

223

IAS 23.7.

224

IAS 23.4(b)

225

IAS 23.7.

226

IFRIC Update, March 2019 , available on the IASB’s website.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 212

5.5.2 Financial statement presentation of financing component (updated

October 2018)

As discussed above, when a significant financing component exists in a

contract, the transaction price is adjusted so that the amount recognised

as revenue is the ‘cash selling price’ of the underlying goods or services at the

time of transfer. Essentially, a contract with a customer that has a significant

financing component would be separated into a revenue component (for the

notional cash sales price) and a loan component (for the effect of the deferred

or advance payment terms).

227

Consequently, the accounting for accounts

receivable arising from a contract that has a significant financing component

should be comparable to the accounting for a loan with the same features.

228

The amount allocated to the significant financing component would have to be

presented separately from revenue recognised from contracts with customers.

The financing component is recognised as interest expense (when the customer

pays in advance) or interest income (when the customer pays in arrears). The

interest income or expense is recognised over the financing period using the

effective interest method described in IFRS 9. The standard notes that interest

is only recognised to the extent that a contract asset, contract liability or

receivable is recognised under IFRS 15.

229

As discussed in section 10.1, a contract asset (or receivable) or contract liability

is generated (and presented on the balance sheet) when either party to

a contract performs, depending on the relationship between the entity’s

performance and the customer’s payment. Example 26 in the standard (see

section 5.5.1) illustrates a situation in which an entity transfers control of

a good to a customer, but the customer is not required to pay for the good until

two years after delivery. The contract includes a significant financing component.

Furthermore, the customer has the right to return the good for 90 days. The

product is new and the entity does not have historical evidence of returns activity.

Therefore, the entity is not able to recognise revenue (or a contract asset or

receivable) upon delivery because it cannot assert that it is highly probable that

a significant revenue reversal will not occur (i.e., it cannot assert that it is highly

probable that the product will not be returned). Accordingly, during the 90-day

return period, the entity also cannot record interest income. However, as depicted

in the example, once the return period lapses, the entity can record revenue and

a receivable, as well as begin to recognise interest income.

The IASB noted in the Basis for Conclusions that an entity may present interest

income as revenue only when interest income represents income from an

entity’s ordinary activities.

230

Although there are two components within the transaction price when there

is a significant financing component (i.e., the revenue component and the

significant financing component), it is only in the case of deferred payment

terms that there are two cash flow components. In that case, the revenue

component cash flows should be classified as cash flows from operating

activities, and the cash flows related to the significant financing component

should be classified consistent with the entity’s choice to present cash flows

from interests received/paid in accordance with IAS 7.33 (i.e., as cash flows

from operating or investing/financing activities). If the customer pays in

advance, the sum of the cash amount and the accrued interest represent

revenue, and thus there is only one cash flow component. Accordingly, the

cash received should be classified as cash flows from operating activities.

227

IFRS 15.BC244.

228

IFRS 15.BC244.

229

IFRS 15.65.

230

IFRS 15.BC247.

213 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Impairment losses on receivables, with or without a significant financing

component, are presented in line with the requirements of IAS 1

Presentation

of Financial Statements

and disclosed in accordance with IFRS 7

Financial

Instruments: Disclosures

. However, IFRS 15 makes it clear that such amounts

are disclosed separately from impairment losses from other contracts.

231

How we see it

We believe entities may need to expend additional effort to track impairment

losses on assets arising from contracts that are within the scope of IFRS 15

separately from impairment losses on assets arising from other contracts.

Entities need to ensure that they have the appropriate systems, internal

controls, policies and procedures in place to collect and separately present

this information.

5.6 Non-cash consideration

Customer consideration may be in the form of goods, services or other non-cash

consideration (e.g., property, plant and equipment, a financial instrument). When

an entity (i.e., the seller or vendor) receives, or expects to receive, non-cash

consideration, the fair value of the non-cash consideration is included in the

transaction price.

An entity likely applies the requirements of IFRS 13

Fair Value Measurement

or IFRS 2

Share-based payment

when measuring the fair value of any non-cash

consideration. If an entity cannot reasonably estimate the fair value of non-cash

consideration, it measures the non-cash consideration indirectly by reference

to the stand-alone selling price of the promised goods or services.

For contracts with both non-cash consideration and cash consideration, an

entity needs to measure the fair value of the non-cash consideration and it looks

to other requirements within IFRS 15 to account for the cash consideration. For

example, for a contract in which an entity receives non-cash consideration and

a sales-based royalty, the entity would measure the fair value of the non-cash

consideration and refer to the requirements within the standard for the sales-

based royalties.

The fair value of non-cash consideration may change both because of the form of

consideration (e.g., a change in the price of a share an entity is entitled to receive

from a customer) and for reasons other than the form of consideration (e.g., a

change in the exercise price of a share option because of the entity’s performance).

Under IFRS 15, if an entity’s entitlement to non-cash consideration promised by

a customer is variable for reasons other than the form of consideration (i.e., there

is uncertainty as to whether the entity receives the non-cash consideration if

a future event occurs or does not occur), the entity considers the constraint

on variable consideration.

In some transactions, a customer contributes goods or services, such as

equipment or labour, to facilitate the fulfilment of the contract. If the entity

obtains control of the contributed goods or services, it would consider them

non-cash consideration and account for that consideration as described above.

Assessing whether the entity obtains control of the contributed goods or

services by the customer may require judgement.

The Board also noted that any assets recognised as a result of non-cash

consideration are accounted for in accordance with other relevant standards

(e.g., IAS 16).

231

IFRS 15.113(b).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 214

The standard provides the following example of a transaction for which non-

cash consideration is received in exchange for services provided:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 31 — Entitlement to non-cash consideration (IFRS 15.IE156-

IE158)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to provide a weekly service

for one year. The contract is signed on 1 January 20X1 and work begins

immediately. The entity concludes that the service is a single performance

obligation in accordance with paragraph 22(b) of IFRS 15. This is because

the entity is providing a series of distinct services that are substantially the

same and have the same pattern of transfer (the services transfer to the

customer over time and use the same method to measure progress—that is,

a time-based measure of progress).

In exchange for the service, the customer promises 100 shares of its

common stock per week of service (a total of 5,200 shares for the contract).

The terms in the contract require that the shares must be paid upon the

successful completion of each week of service.

The entity measures its progress towards complete satisfaction of the

performance obligation as each week of service is complete. To determine

the transaction price (and the amount of revenue to be recognised),

the entity measures the fair value of 100 shares that are received upon

completion of each weekly service. The entity does not reflect any

subsequent changes in the fair value of the shares received (or receivable)

in revenue.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

The concept of accounting for non-cash consideration at fair value is consistent

with legacy IFRS. IAS 18 required non-cash consideration to be measured at

the fair value of the goods or services received. When this amount cannot be

measured reliably, non-cash consideration was measured at the fair value of the

goods or services given up.

232

IFRIC 18 also required any revenue recognised as

a result of a transfer of an asset from a customer to be measured,

233

consistent

with the requirement in IAS 18. Therefore, IFRS 15 did not result in a significant

change in respect of the measurement of non-cash consideration.

SIC-31 specified that a seller could reliably measure revenue at the fair value of

the advertising services it had provided in a barter transaction, by reference to

non-barter transactions that met specified criteria. IFRS 15 does not contain

similar requirements. Therefore, significant judgement and consideration of the

specific facts and circumstances are likely to be needed when accounting for

advertising barter transactions.

232

IAS 18.12.

233

IFRIC 18.13.

215 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

5.6.1 Non-cash consideration application considerations

Stakeholders raised questions about the date that should be used when

measuring the fair value of non-cash consideration for inclusion within the

transaction price. In addition, constituents noted that the variability of non-cash

consideration could arise both from its form (e.g., shares) and for other reasons

(e.g., performance factors that affect the amount of consideration to which

the entity will be entitled). Consequently, they questioned how the constraint

on variable consideration would be applied in such circumstances.

At the January 2015 TRG meeting, members of the TRG discussed these

questions and agreed that, while the standard requires non-cash consideration

(e.g., shares, advertising provided as consideration from a customer) to be

measured at fair value, it is unclear when that fair value must be measured

(i.e., the measurement date). Members of the TRG discussed three

measurement date options: contract inception; when it is received; or when

the related performance obligation is satisfied. Each view received support

from some TRG members. Since IFRS 15 does not specify the measurement,

an entity needs to use its judgement to determine the most appropriate

measurement date when measuring the fair value of non-cash consideration.

However, in accordance with IFRS 15.126, information about the methods,

inputs and assumptions used to measure non-cash consideration needs to

be disclosed.

234

IFRS 15 requires that the constraint on variable consideration be applied to non-

cash consideration only if the variability is due to factors other than the form of

consideration (i.e., variability arising for reasons other than changes in the price

of the non-cash consideration). The constraint does not apply if the non-cash

consideration varies because of its form (e.g., listed shares for which the share

price changes). However, the standard does not address how the constraint

would be applied when the non-cash consideration is variable due to both its

form and other reasons. While some TRG members said the standard could be

interpreted to require an entity to split the consideration based on the source

of the variability, other TRG members highlighted that this approach would be

overly complex and would not provide useful information.

234

IFRS 15.BC254E.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 216

FASB differences

The FASB’s standard specifies that the fair value of non-cash consideration

needs to be measured at contract inception when determining the

transaction price. Any subsequent changes in the fair value of the non-cash

consideration due to its form (e.g., changes in share price) are not included

in the transaction price and would be recognised, if required, as a gain

or loss in accordance with other accounting standards, but they would not be

recognised as revenue from contracts with customers. However, in the Basis

for Conclusions, the IASB observed that this issue has important interactions

with other standards (including IFRS 2 and IAS 21) and there was a concern

about the risk of unintended consequences. Therefore, the Board decided

that, if needed, these issues would be considered more comprehensively in

a separate project.

235

The IASB acknowledged in the Basis for Conclusions,

that the use of a measurement date other than contract inception would not

be precluded under IFRS. Consequently, it is possible that diversity between

IFRS and US GAAP entities may arise in practice. Unlike US GAAP, legacy

IFRS did not contain specific requirements regarding the measurement

date for non-cash consideration related to revenue transactions. As such,

the IASB does not expect IFRS 15 to create more diversity than previously

existed in relation to this issue.

236

The FASB’s standard also specifies that when the variability of non-cash

consideration is due to both the form of the consideration and for other

reasons, the constraint on variable consideration would apply only to the

variability for reasons other than its form. While IFRS 15 does not have

a similar requirement, the Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that it

decided to constrain variability in the estimate of the fair value of the non-

cash consideration if that variability relates to changes in the fair value for

reasons other than the form of the consideration. It also noted the view

of some TRG members that, in practice, it might be difficult to distinguish

between variability in the fair value due to the form of the consideration

and other reasons, in which case applying the variable consideration

constraint to the whole estimate of the non-cash consideration might

be more practical.

237

However, for reasons similar to those on the

measurement date for non-cash consideration, the IASB decided not to

have a similar requirement to that of the FASB’s standard. Consequently, the

IASB acknowledged that differences may arise between an entity reporting

under IFRS and an entity reporting under US GAAP.

238

235

IFRS 15.BC254C.

236

IFRS 15.BC254E.

237

IFRS 15.BC252.

238

IFRS 15.BC254H.

217 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

5.7 Consideration paid or payable to a customer (updated

October 2018)

Many entities make payments to their customers. In some cases, the

consideration paid or payable represents purchases by the entity of goods

or services offered by the customer that satisfy a business need of the entity.

In other cases, the consideration paid or payable represents incentives given by

the entity to entice the customer to purchase, or continue purchasing, its goods

or services.

The standard provides the following requirements for consideration paid or

payable to a customer:

Extract from IFRS 15

70. Consideration payable to a customer includes cash amounts that an

entity pays, or expects to pay, to the customer (or to other parties that

purchase the entity’s goods or services from the customer). Consideration

payable to a customer also includes credit or other items (for example, a

coupon or voucher) that can be applied against amounts owed to the entity

(or to other parties that purchase the entity’s goods or services from the

customer). An entity shall account for consideration payable to a customer

as a reduction of the transaction price and, therefore, of revenue unless

the payment to the customer is in exchange for a distinct good or service

(as described in paragraphs 26–30) that the customer transfers to

the entity. If the consideration payable to a customer includes a variable

amount, an entity shall estimate the transaction price (including assessing

whether the estimate of variable consideration is constrained) in

accordance with paragraphs 50–58.

71. If consideration payable to a customer is a payment for a distinct good

or service from the customer, then an entity shall account for the purchase of

the good or service in the same way that it accounts for other purchases from

suppliers. If the amount of consideration payable to the customer exceeds

the fair value of the distinct good or service that the entity receives from the

customer, then the entity shall account for such an excess as a reduction of

the transaction price. If the entity cannot reasonably estimate the fair value

of the good or service received from the customer, it shall account for all of

the consideration payable to the customer as a reduction of the transaction

price.

72. Accordingly, if consideration payable to a customer is accounted for as

a reduction of the transaction price, an entity shall recognise the reduction

of revenue when (or as) the later of either of the following events occurs:

(a) the entity recognises revenue for the transfer of the related goods or

services to the customer; and

(b) the entity pays or promises to pay the consideration (even if the payment

is conditional on a future event). That promise might be implied by the

entity’s customary business practices.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 218

The following flow chart illustrates these requirements:

The standard indicates that an entity accounts for the consideration payable to

a customer, regardless of whether the purchaser receiving the consideration

is a direct or indirect customer of the entity. This includes consideration to any

purchasers of the entity’s products at any point along the distribution chain.

This would include entities that make payments to the customers of resellers

or distributors that purchase directly from the entity (e.g., manufacturers

of breakfast cereals may offer coupons to end-consumers, even though their

direct customers are the grocery stores that sell to end-consumers). The

requirements in IFRS 15 apply to entities that derive revenue from sales

of services, as well as entities that derive revenue from sales of goods.

Yes

Does the amount of

consideration payable to the

customer exceed the fair value

of the distinct good or service?

Yes

Is the consideration payable to

the customer in exchange for a

distinct good or service?

Account for the consideration payable to

the customer as a reduction of the

transaction price when (or as) the later of

the following occurs:

•

The entity recognises revenue for the

transfer of the related goods or services to

the customer.

•

The entity pays (or promises to pay) the

consideration.

Account for the consideration

payable to the customer in the

same way that the entity

accounts for other purchases

from suppliers.

Can the fair value of the distinct

good or service be reasonably

estimated?

Yes

For consideration paid up to the fair value

of the distinct good or service received from

the customer, account for the consideration

payable to the customer the same way that

the entity accounts for other purchases

from suppliers.

The excess would be accounted for as a

reduction in the transaction price.

219 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-26: Who is considered to be an entity’s customer when applying

the requirements for consideration payable to a customer? [TRG meetings

30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 28; and 13 July 2015 – Agenda paper

no. 37]

TRG members generally agreed that the requirements for consideration

payable to a customer apply to all payments made to entities/customers in

the distribution chain for that contract. However, they agreed that there

could also be situations in which the requirements would apply to payments

made to any customer of an entity’s customer outside the distribution chain

if both parties are considered the entity’s customers. For example, in an

arrangement with a principal, an agent and an end-customer, an agent may

conclude that its only customer is the principal or it may conclude that it

has two customers – the principal and the end-customer. Regardless of this

assessment, an agent’s payment to a principal’s end-customer that was

contractually required based on an agreement between the entity (agent)

and the principal would represent consideration payable to a customer.

Absent similar contract provisions that clearly indicate when an amount

is consideration payable, TRG members agreed that agents need to evaluate

their facts and circumstances to determine whether payments made to an

end-customer would be considered a reduction of revenue or a marketing

expense.

5.7.1 Classification of the different types of consideration paid or payable to

a customer (updated September 2019)

To determine the appropriate accounting treatment, an entity must first

determine whether the consideration paid or payable to a customer is

a payment for a distinct good or service, a reduction of the transaction price

or a combination of both.

For a payment by the entity to a customer to be treated as something other

than a reduction of the transaction price, the good or service provided by

the customer must be distinct (as discussed in section 4.2.1). However, if

the payment to the customer is in excess of the fair value of the distinct good

or service received, the entity must account for such excess as a reduction of

the transaction price. In the event that the entity cannot reasonably estimate

the fair value of the good or service received from the customer, it will need to

account for all of the consideration payable to the customer as a reduction in

the transaction price.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 220

Illustration 5-5 — Consideration paid to a customer in exchange for a

distinct good or service

Entity A enters into a contract to sell goods to Customer B in the ordinary

course of business in exchange for cash consideration. Separately, Entity A

enters into an agreement to purchase market research from Customer B

related to the launch of a new product in exchange for cash consideration.

The two contracts were not negotiated in contemplation of one another.

Entity A elects to purchase the market research, rather than internally

developing such knowledge because of Customer’s B expertise in this area.

Entity A could purchase similar services from a non-customer.

Based on an evaluation of the circumstances, the cash consideration paid to

the customer is in return for Customer B providing distinct services to

Entity A. To reach this conclusion, Entity A considers the requirements in

IFRS 15.27-30 and concludes that the market research services are capable

of being distinct, as well as separately identifiable (or distinct within the

context of the contract), from Entity A’s sale of its goods to Customer B.

Entity A determines that market research is capable of being distinct from

the sale of its goods to Customer B because the market research could be

purchased from a non-customer. Therefore, Entity A is able to demonstrate

that the market research can provide benefits on its own or with other readily

available resources.

Entity A determines that the market research is distinct within the context of

the contract because of the following:

•

Customer B is not providing a significant service of integrating the

market research with the purchases of Entity A’s goods because the

promises to Entity A are not a combined output of integrated goods or

services.

•

The market research provided by Customer B does not modify or

customise the purchases of Entity A’s goods. The market research and

the purchases of goods are not being assembled together to produce a

combined output.

•

The market research is not highly interrelated or interdependent with the

sale of Entity A’s goods because the market research is not needed for

Customer B to purchase the goods. That is, there is no significant two-

way dependency between the promises.

Entity A accounts for the cash consideration paid to Customer B in the same

way that it accounts for other purchases from suppliers, provided that the

cash consideration paid does not exceed the stand-alone selling price of the

distinct services received from Customer B. If the amount of cash

consideration paid by Entity A exceeds the stand-alone selling price of the

distinct services, that excess amount would be characterised as a reduction

of the transaction price of the goods sold to Customer B in Entity A’s income

statement.

221 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

5.7.2 Forms of consideration paid or payable to a customer (updated

September 2019)

Consideration paid or payable to customers commonly takes the form of

discounts and coupons, among others. Furthermore, the promise to pay the

consideration may be implied by the entity’s customary business practice. Since

consideration paid or payable to a customer can take many different forms,

entities have to carefully evaluate each transaction to determine the appropriate

treatment of such amounts. Some common examples of consideration paid to

customers include:

• Slotting fees — Manufacturers of consumer products commonly pay retailers

fees to have their goods displayed prominently on store shelves. Generally,

such fees do not provide a distinct good or service to the manufacturer and

are treated as a reduction of the transaction price.

• Co-operative advertising arrangements — In some arrangements, an entity

agrees to reimburse a reseller for a portion of costs incurred by the reseller

to advertise the entity’s products. The determination of whether the

payment from the vendor is in exchange for a distinct good or service at fair

value depends on a careful analysis of the facts and circumstances of the

contract.

• Price protection – An entity may agree to reimburse a retailer up to a

specified amount for shortfalls in the sales price received by the retailer for

the entity’s products over a specified period of time. Normally such fees do

not provide a distinct good or service to the manufacturer and are treated

as a reduction of the transaction price (see Question 5-7 in section 5.2.1).

• Coupons and rebates - An indirect customer of an entity may receive a

refund of a portion of the purchase price of the product or service acquired

by returning a form to the retailer or the entity. Generally, such fees do not

provide a distinct good or service to the manufacturer and are treated as a

reduction of the transaction price.

• ’Pay-to-play’ arrangements — In some arrangements, an entity pays an

upfront fee to the customer prior to, or in conjunction with, entering into a

contract. In most cases, these payments are not associated with any

distinct good or service to be received from the customer and are treated

as a reduction of the transaction price.

• Purchase of goods or services — Entities often enter into supplier-vendor

arrangements with their customers in which the customers provide them

with a distinct good or service. For example, a software entity may buy

its office supplies from one of its software customers. In such situations,

the entity has to carefully determine whether the payment made to the

customer is solely for the goods or services received or whether part of

the payment is actually a reduction of the transaction price for the goods

or services the entity is transferring to the customer.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

IFRS 15’s accounting for consideration payable to a customer is similar to

practice under legacy IFRS. However, the requirement to determine whether

a good or service is ’distinct’ in order to treat the consideration payable to

a customer as anything other than a reduction of revenue is new. While many

of the illustrative examples to IAS 18 implied that the entity would have

to receive an ’identifiable benefit’ from the customer that was sufficiently

separable from the customer’s purchases of the entity’s products, it was not

explicitly discussed in legacy IFRS. As such, entities may have needed to

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 222

reassess their treatment of consideration paid or payable to a customer on

transitioning to IFRS 15.

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-27: Which payments to a customer are within the scope of the

requirements for consideration payable to a customer? [TRG meetings

30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 28; and 13 July 2015 – Agenda paper

no. 37]

TRG members generally agreed that an entity may not need to separately

analyse each payment to a customer if it is apparent that the payment is

for a distinct good or service acquired in the normal course of business at

a market price. However, if the business purpose of a payment to a customer

is unclear or the goods or services are acquired in a manner that is

inconsistent with market terms that other entities would receive when

purchasing the customer’s good or services, the payment needs to be

evaluated under these requirements.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB noted that the amount of consideration

received from a customer for goods or services and the amount of any

consideration paid to that customer for goods or services may be linked

even if they are separate events.

239

FASB differences

In 2018, the FASB issued an amendment to simplify the accounting for

share-based payment awards to non-employees, including an amendment to

the ASC 606 to clarify that equity instruments granted to customers in

conjunction with selling goods or services (e.g., shares, options) are within

the scope of the requirements for consideration payable to customers.

240

The IASB has not proposed any similar amendments to IFRS 15. Therefore,

entities applying IFRS could reach different accounting conclusions than

those applying US GAAP.

In March 2019, the FASB issued an exposure draft proposing to clarify the

measurement requirements for share-based payments to customers.

241

The

IASB has not proposed any similar amendments to IFRS 15.

5.7.3 Timing of recognition of consideration paid or payable to a customer

If the consideration paid or payable to a customer is a discount or refund for

goods or services provided to a customer, this reduction of the transaction price

(and, ultimately, revenue) is recognised at the later of when the entity transfers

the promised goods or services to the customer or the entity promises to pay

the consideration. For example, if goods subject to a discount through a coupon

are already delivered to the retailers, the discount would be recognised when

the coupons are issued. However, if a coupon is issued that can be used on

a new line of products that have not yet been sold to retailers, the discount

would be recognised upon sale of the products to a retailer.

Certain sales incentives, such as mail-in rebates and manufacturer coupons,

entitle a customer to receive a reduction in the price of goods or services by

239

IFRS 15.BC257.

240

ASU 2018-07 Compensation – Stock Compensation (718): Improvements to Nonemployee

Share-Based Payment accounting.

241

FASB Exposure Draft Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718) and Revenue from

Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).

223 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

submitting a form or claim for a refund of a specified amount of the price charged

to the customer at the point of sale. An entity must recognise a liability for those

sales incentives at the later of: (a) when it recognises revenue on the goods or

services; or (b) the date at which the sales incentive was offered. The amount of

liability will be based on the estimated amount of discounts or refunds that will be

claimed by customers, similar to how the entity would estimate variable

consideration (see section 5.2.2).

Even if the sales incentives would result in a loss on the sale of the product or

service, an entity would also recognise a liability for those sales incentives at the

later of: (a) when it recognises revenue on the goods or services; or (b) the date

at which the sales incentive was offered. That is, an entity would not recognise

the loss before either date. However, an entity would need to consider whether

the offer indicates that the net realisable value of inventories are lower than costs

which will require write-down of inventories to net realisable value.

242

To determine the appropriate timing of recognition of consideration payable

to a customer entities also need to consider the requirements for variable

consideration. That is, the standard’s description of variable consideration is

broad and includes amounts such as coupons or other forms of credits that can

be applied to the amounts owed to an entity by the customer (see section 5.2.1

above). IFRS 15 requires that all potential variable consideration be considered

and reflected in the transaction price at contract inception and reassessed as

the entity performs. In other words, if an entity has a history of providing this

type of consideration to its customers, the requirements on estimating variable

consideration would require that such amounts be considered at contract

inception, even if the entity has not yet provided or explicitly promised this

consideration to the customer.

The TRG discussed the potential inconsistency that arises between

the requirements on consideration payable to a customer and variable

consideration because the requirements specific to consideration payable

to a customer indicate that such amounts are not recognised as a reduction

of revenue until the

later

of when:

243

• The related sales are recognised

• The entity promises to provide such consideration.

A literal read of these requirements seems to suggest that an entity need not

anticipate offering these types of programmes, even if it has a history of doing

so, and would only recognise the effect of these programmes at the later of

when the entity transfers the promised goods or services or makes a promise

to pay the customer. Members of the TRG generally agreed that if an entity

has historically provided or intends to provide this type of consideration to

customers, the requirements on estimating variable consideration would

require the entity to consider such amounts at contract inception when

the transaction price is estimated, even if the entity has not yet provided or

promised to provide this consideration to the customer.

244

If the consideration

paid or payable to a customer includes variable consideration in the form of a

discount or refund for goods or services provided, an entity would use either

the expected value method or most likely amount method to estimate the

amount to which the entity expects to be entitled and apply the constraint to

242

IAS 2.9, IAS 2.28

243

TRG Agenda paper no. 37, Consideration Payable to a Customer, dated 13 July 2015.

244

TRG Agenda paper no. 44, July 2015 Meeting – Summary of Issues Discussed and Next

Steps, dated 9 November 2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 224

the estimate (see section 5.2.3 for further discussion) to determine the effect

of the discount or refund on the transaction price.

How we see it

The general agreement by TRG members that entities need to consider the

requirements for variable consideration to determine the appropriate timing

of recognition of consideration payable to a customer may have required a

change in practice for some entities. Significant judgement may be needed

to determine the appropriate timing of recognition.

The standard includes the following example of consideration paid to

a customer:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 32 — Consideration payable to a customer (IFRS 15.IE160-IE162)

An entity that manufactures consumer goods enters into a one-year contract

to sell goods to a customer that is a large global chain of retail stores. The

customer commits to buy at least CU15 million of products during the year.

The contract also requires the entity to make a non-refundable payment

of CU1.5 million to the customer at the inception of the contract. The

CU1.5 million payment will compensate the customer for the changes it

needs to make to its shelving to accommodate the entity’s products.

The entity considers the requirements in paragraphs 70–72 of IFRS 15 and

concludes that the payment to the customer is not in exchange for a distinct

good or service that transfers to the entity. This is because the entity does

not obtain control of any rights to the customer’s shelves. Consequently,

the entity determines that, in accordance with paragraph 70 of IFRS 15,

the CU1.5 million payment is a reduction of the transaction price.

The entity applies the requirements in paragraph 72 of IFRS 15 and

concludes that the consideration payable is accounted for as a reduction

in the transaction price when the entity recognises revenue for the transfer

of the goods. Consequently, as the entity transfers goods to the customer,

the entity reduces the transaction price for each good by 10 per cent

(CU1.5 million ÷ CU15 million). Therefore, in the first month in which

the entity transfers goods to the customer, the entity recognises revenue

of CU1.8 million (CU2.0 million invoiced amount less CU0.2 million of

consideration payable to the customer).

225 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-28: How should an entity account for upfront payments to a

customer? [FASB TRG meeting 7 November 2016 – Agenda paper no. 59]

While the requirements for consideration payable to a customer clearly apply

to payments to customers under current contracts, stakeholders have raised

questions about how to account for upfront payments to potential customers

and payments that relate to both current and anticipated contracts.

FASB TRG members discussed two views. Under View A, an entity would

recognise an asset for the upfront payment and reduce revenue as

the related goods or services (or as the expected related goods or services)

are transferred to the customer. As a result, the payment may be recognised

in profit or loss over a period that is longer than the contract term. Entities

would determine the amortisation period based on facts and circumstances

and would assess the asset for recoverability using the principles in asset

impairment models in other standards. Under View B, entities would reduce

revenue in the current contract by the amount of the payment. If there is no

current contract, entities would immediately recognise the payment in profit

or loss. FASB TRG members generally agreed that an entity needs to apply

the view that best reflects the substance and economics of the payment to

the customer; it would not be an accounting policy choice. Entities would

evaluate the nature of the payment, the rights and obligations under the

contract and whether the payment meets the definition of an asset. Some

FASB TRG members noted that this evaluation was consistent with legacy US

GAAP requirements for payments to customers and, therefore, similar

conclusions may be reached under the revenue standard. FASB TRG

members also noted that an entity’s decision on which view is appropriate

may be a significant judgement in the determination of the transaction price

that would require disclosure under the revenue standard.

How we see it

We believe an entity has to carefully evaluate all facts and circumstances

of payments made to customers to determine the appropriate accounting

treatment. However, if an entity expects to generate future revenue

associated with the payment, we believe an entity generally applies View A

(assuming any asset recorded is recoverable). If no revenue is expected as

a result of the payment, View B may be appropriate.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 226

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-29: Would ‘negative revenue’ result from consideration paid or

payable to a customer that exceeds the amount to which the entity expects

to be entitled?

In certain arrangements, consideration paid or payable to a customer could

exceed the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in

exchange for transferring promised goods or services in a contract with

a customer. In these situations, recognition of payments to the customer

as a reduction of revenue could result in ‘negative revenue’. IFRS 15 does

not specifically address how entities should present negative revenue.

Stakeholders had asked the TRG whether an entity should reclassify negative

revenue resulting from consideration paid or payable to a customer to

expense and, if so, in what circumstances. The TRG did not discuss this

question in detail and no additional application guidance was provided.

As discussed above, IFRS 15.70 states that an entity shall account for

consideration payable to a customer as a reduction of the transaction

price (and, therefore, of revenue), unless the payment to the customer is

in exchange for a distinct good or service that the customer transfers to

the entity.

Therefore, we believe it is appropriate for an entity to present payments to a

customer in excess of the transaction price that are not in exchange for

a distinct good or service within revenue. The question of whether negative

revenue can be reclassified to expense in the income statement was raised in

comment letters with the IFRS IC in September 2019. However, the

Committee did not consider this question.

245

5.8 Non-refundable upfront fees (updated October 2018)

In certain circumstances, entities may receive payments from customers before

they provide the contracted service or deliver a good. Upfront fees generally

relate to the initiation, activation or set-up of a good to be used or a service

to be provided in the future. Upfront fees may also be paid to grant access

or to provide a right to use a facility, product or service. In many cases, the

upfront amounts paid by the customer are non-refundable. Examples include

fees paid for membership to a health club or buying club and activation fees for

phone, cable or internet services.

Entities must evaluate whether a non-refundable upfront fee relates to the

transfer of a promised good or service. If it does, the entity is required to

determine whether to account for the promised good or service as a separate

performance obligation (see section 4).

The standard notes that, even though a non-refundable upfront fee relates to

an activity that the entity is required to undertake at or near contract inception

in order to fulfil the contract, in many cases, that activity does not result in the

transfer of a promised good or service to the customer.

246

Instead, in many

situations, an upfront fee represents an advance payment for future goods or

services.

The existence of a non-refundable upfront fee may indicate that the contract

includes a renewal option for future goods or services at a reduced price (if the

customer renews the agreement without the payment of an additional upfront

fee). In such circumstances, an entity would need to assess whether the option

is a material right (i.e., another performance obligation in the contract) (see

section 4.6). If the entity concludes that the non-refundable upfront fee does

245

IFRIC Update, September 2019, available on the IASB’s website.

246

IFRS 15.B49.

227 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

not provide a material right, the fee would be part of the consideration allocable

to the goods or services in the contract and would be recognised when (or as)

the good or service to which the consideration was allocated is transferred to

the customer. If an entity concludes that the non-refundable upfront fee

provides a material right, the amount of the fee allocated to the material right

would be recognised over the period of benefit of the fee, which may be the

estimated customer life.

The following illustration depicts the allocation of a non-refundable upfront fee

determined to be a material right:

Illustration 5-6 — Non-refundable upfront fees

A customer signs a one-year contract with a health club and is required to

pay both a non-refundable initiation fee of CU150 and an annual membership

fee in monthly instalments of CU40. At the end of each year, the customer

can renew the contract for an additional year without paying an additional

initiation fee. The customer is then required to pay an annual membership fee

in monthly instalments of CU40 for each renewal period. The club’s activity of

registering the customer does not transfer any service to the customer and,

therefore, is not a performance obligation. By not requiring the customer to

pay the upfront membership fee again upon renewal, the club is effectively

providing a discounted renewal rate to the customer.

The club determines that the renewal option is a material right because it

provides a renewal option at a lower price than the range of prices typically

charged for new customers. Therefore, it is a separate performance

obligation. Based on its experience, the club determines that its customers,

on average, renew their annual memberships twice before terminating their

relationship with the club. As a result, the club determines that the option

provides the customer with the right to two annual renewals at a discounted

price. In this scenario, the club would allocate the total transaction

consideration of CU630 (CU150 upfront membership fee + CU480 (CU40 x

12 months)) to the identified performance obligations (monthly services for

the one-year contract and renewal option) based on the relative stand-alone

selling price method. In accordance with IFRS 15.B40, the amount allocated

to the renewal option would be recognised when, or as, the future goods or

services are transferred (e.g., years two and three of the services if the

renewal option is fully exercised) or when the renewal option expires.

Alternatively, the club could value the option by ‘looking through’ to the

optional goods or services using the practical alternative provided in

IFRS 15.B42 (see section 6.1.5). In that case, the club would determine

that the total hypothetical transaction price (for purposes of allocating the

transaction price to the option) is the sum of the upfront fee plus three years

of service fees (i.e., CU150 + CU1,440) and would allocate that amount to

all of the services expected to be delivered or 36 months of membership (or

CU44.17 per month). Therefore, the total consideration in the contract of

CU630 would be allocated to the 12 months of service (CU530 (CU44.17 x

12 months)) with the remaining amount being allocated to the renewal option

(CU100 (CU630 – 530)). Assuming the renewal option is exercised for year 2

and year 3, the amount allocated to the renewal option (CU100) would be

recognised as revenue over each renewal period. One acceptable approach

would be to reduce the initial CU100 deferred revenue balance for the

material right by CU4.17 each month (CU100 / 24 months remaining),

assuming that the estimated renewal period of two years remains unchanged.

See sections 4.6 and 6.1.5 for a more detailed discussion of the treatment

of options (including the practical alternative allowed under IFRS 15.B42) and

sections 6.1 and 6.2 for a discussion of estimating stand-alone selling prices

and allocating consideration using the relative stand-alone selling price

method.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 228

The standard notes that, in some cases, an entity may charge a non-refundable

fee in part as compensation for costs incurred in setting up a contract (or other

administrative tasks). If those set-up activities do not satisfy a performance

obligation, the entity is required to disregard them (and the related costs) when

measuring progress (see section 7.1.4). This is because the costs of set-up

activities do not depict the transfer of services to the customer. In addition, the

entity is required to assess whether costs incurred in setting up a contract are

costs incurred to fulfil a contract that meet the requirements for capitalisation

in IFRS 15 (see section 9.3.2).

247

Frequently asked questions

Question 5-30: Over what period would an entity recognise a non-

refundable upfront fee (e.g., fees paid for membership to a club, activation

fees for phone, cable or internet services) that does not relate to the

transfer of a good or service? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015 – Agenda paper

no. 32]

TRG members generally agreed that the period over which a non-refundable

upfront fee is recognised depends on whether the fee provides the customer

with a material right with respect to future contract renewals. For example,

assume that an entity charges a one-time activation fee of CU50

to provide CU100 of services to a customer on a month-to-month basis. If

the entity concludes that the activation fee provides a material right, the fee

would be recognised over the service period during which the customer is

expected to benefit from not having to pay an activation fee upon renewal of

the service. That period may be the estimated customer life in some

situations. If the entity concludes that the activation fee does not provide a

material right, the fee would be recognised over the contract duration (i.e.,

one month).

Question 5-31: How does a utility entity determine whether a contract that

includes a non-refundable upfront fee received for establishing a connection

to a network (i.e., a connection fee) is within the scope of IFRS 15?

Utility entities are often responsible for constructing infrastructure (e.g., a

pipe) that will physically connect a building to its network (i.e., connection)

and for providing ongoing services (e.g., delivery of electricity, gas, water).

In exchange, a utility entity generally charges the customer a non-refundable

upfront connection fee and a separate fee for the ongoing services.

Furthermore, the connection fee and/or the fee for ongoing services are

often subject to rate regulation established through a formal regulatory

framework that affects the rates that a utility entity is allowed to charge

to its customers.

Utility entities first need to assess whether some or all of the contract is

within the scope of another standard (e.g., IFRS 16, IAS 16). If the contract is

partially within the scope of IFRS 15, the entity would need to separate the

non-revenue components, in accordance with IFRS 15.7, and account for

the remainder within the scope of IFRS 15 (see section 2.5 for further

discussion).

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IFRS 15.B51.

229 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

To be within the scope of IFRS 15, a vendor-customer relationship needs to

exist. Provided such goods or services are an output of the ordinary activities

of the entity, we believe a vendor-customer relationship would exist (and the

contract would be wholly, or partially, within the scope of the standard) if:

•

The ongoing service is part of the contract or part of an associated

contract for ongoing services that is combined with the contract to

establish the connection if the combined contract criteria in IFRS 15.17

are met. In a rate-regulated environment, the contract to transfer

ongoing services to a customer (e.g., delivery of energy) may be implied

as the customer has no alternative other than purchasing the good or

service from the entity that is responsible for creating the connection.

•

The customer obtains control of the infrastructure asset (e.g., a pipe) or

the connection.

Question 5-32: What factors might be relevant when a utility entity applies

the application guidance to non-refundable upfront fees for establishing a

connection to a network?

As discussed in Question 5-31, utility entities are often responsible for

constructing infrastructure (e.g., a pipe) that will physically connect a

building to its network (i.e., connection) and may receive a non-refundable

upfront connection fee in exchange. Applying the non-refundable upfront

fee application guidance in such contracts often requires significant

judgement and depends on the facts and circumstances. For example, if

more than one party is involved, the utility entity may need to consider

the principal versus agent application guidance (see section 4.4) in addition

to the non-refundable upfront fee application guidance.

The non-refundable upfront fee application guidance requires an entity to

determine if the upfront fee is related to a distinct good or service. As part

of this assessment:

•

A utility entity needs to determine whether the connection is a promised

good or service in the contract. It considers explicit promises in the

contract and implied promises that create a valid expectation of the

customer that it will transfer control of the connection to the customer.

This is likely to require significant judgement if the infrastructure asset

remains an asset of the utility entity.

•

If the connection is a promised good or service, a utility entity needs to

determine whether the promise is distinct. In particular, the assessment

of whether the connection is distinct in the context of the contract is

highly judgemental and must consider the specific contract with the

customer, including all relevant facts and circumstances. Entities should

not assume that a particular type of good or service is distinct (or not

distinct) in all instances. The manner in which the promised goods and

services have been bundled within a contract, if any, will affect the

entity’s assessment.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 230

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

As part of assessing whether the promise is distinct within the context of

the contract, a utility entity considers the three factors described in

IFRS 15.29, as follows:

• Factor (a): The utility entity needs to understand the promise(s) it

has made to its customers and whether it integrates them to satisfy

its promise(s). For example, if it promised its customer the ongoing

supply of services, it might also bear the risk for distribution of these

services (including ensuring continued connection). Therefore, it may

be providing a significant service of integrating promised goods or

services to provide a combined output.

• Factor (b): This factor is unlikely to be relevant in the assessment

of whether connection is distinct within the context of the contract

because the ongoing service and the connection are unlikely to

modify or customise each other.

• Factor (c): The utility entity has to determine whether the connection

is highly interdependent and highly interrelated with the ongoing

service (e.g., supply of electricity). For example, whether there is

more than just a functional relationship (i.e., one item, by its nature,

depends on the other) because the utility entity cannot provide

ongoing services (its main output, e.g., electricity, gas, water)

without the connection and the customer cannot benefit from

the connection without the ongoing services (i.e., is there two-way

dependency?).

If the utility entity concludes that connection is not a distinct good or service,

the non-refundable upfront fee is advanced payment for future goods or

services and is recognised as revenue when (or as) the future goods or

services are provided. As discussed above, in such situations, an entity must

determine whether the non-refundable upfront fee represents an option to

renew the contract at a lower price and must assesses whether the option

to renew represents a material right.

Significant judgement may be needed to determine whether the customer

has a material right. However, the fact that the customer remains

connected to the network and does not to pay the connection fee again

while in the same property, for example, might indicate that a material

right exists.

If the renewal option represents a material right, the period over which

the upfront fee is recognised is longer than the initial contract duration. It

is likely that significant judgement will be needed to determine the

appropriate period over which to recognise the upfront fee in such

circumstances (see Question 5-30 above).

5.9 Changes in the transaction price

Changes in the transaction price can occur for various reasons. See section 6.5

for additional requirements on accounting for a change in transaction price.

231 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

6. Allocate the transaction price to the

performance obligations

The standard’s objective for the allocation of the transaction price to the

performance obligations identified in a contract is, as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

73. The objective when allocating the transaction price is for an entity to

allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation (or distinct

good or service) in an amount that depicts the amount of consideration

to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring

the promised goods or services to the customer.

Once the separate performance obligations are identified and the transaction

price has been determined, the standard generally requires an entity to allocate

the transaction price to the performance obligations in proportion to their

stand-alone selling prices (i.e., on a relative stand-alone selling price basis). The

Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that, in most cases, an allocation based

on stand-alone selling prices will faithfully depict the different margins that may

apply to promised goods or services.

248

When allocating on a relative stand-alone selling price basis, any discount within

the contract generally is allocated proportionately to all of the performance

obligations in the contract. However, as discussed further below, there are

some exceptions. For example, an entity could allocate variable consideration to

a single performance obligation in some situations. IFRS 15 also contemplates

the allocation of any discount in a contract to only certain performance

obligations, if specified criteria are met. An entity would not apply the allocation

requirements if the contract has only one performance obligation (except for

a single performance obligation that is made up of a series of distinct goods or

services and includes variable consideration).

6.1 Determining stand-alone selling prices (updated October

2018)

To allocate the transaction price on a relative stand-alone selling price basis,

an entity must first determine the stand-alone selling price of the distinct good

or service underlying each performance obligation. Under the standard, this is

the price at which an entity would sell a good or service on a stand-alone (or

separate) basis at contract inception.

IFRS 15 indicates the observable price of a good or service sold separately

provides the best evidence of stand-alone selling price. However, in many

situations, stand-alone selling prices are not readily observable. In those cases,

the entity must estimate the stand-alone selling price. The standard includes the

following requirements on estimating stand-alone selling prices:

Extract from IFRS 15

78. If a stand-alone selling price is not directly observable, an entity shall

estimate the stand-alone selling price at an amount that would result in

the allocation of the transaction price meeting the allocation objective in

paragraph 73. When estimating a stand-alone selling price, an entity shall

consider all information (including market conditions, entity-specific factors

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Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 232

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

and information about the customer or class of customer) that is reasonably

available to the entity. In doing so, an entity shall maximise the use of

observable inputs and apply estimation methods consistently in similar

circumstances.

79. Suitable methods for estimating the stand-alone selling price of a good

or service include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Adjusted market assessment approach—an entity could evaluate the

market in which it sells goods or services and estimate the price that

a customer in that market would be willing to pay for those goods or

services. That approach might also include referring to prices from

the entity’s competitors for similar goods or services and adjusting

those prices as necessary to reflect the entity’s costs and margins.

(b) Expected cost plus a margin approach—an entity could forecast its

expected costs of satisfying a performance obligation and then add

an appropriate margin for that good or service.

by reference to the total transaction price less the sum of the observable

stand-alone selling prices of other goods or services promised in the

contract. However, an entity may use a residual approach to estimate,

in accordance with paragraph 78, the stand-alone selling price of a good

or service only if one of the following criteria is met:

(i) the entity sells the same good or service to different customers (at

or near the same time) for a broad range of amounts (ie the selling

price is highly variable because a representative stand-alone selling

price is not discernible from past transactions or other observable

evidence); or

(ii) the entity has not yet established a price for that good or service

and the good or service has not previously been sold on a stand-

alone basis (ie the selling price is uncertain).

80. A combination of methods may need to be used to estimate the stand-

alone selling prices of the goods or services promised in the contract if two or

more of those goods or services have highly variable or uncertain stand-alone

selling prices. For example, an entity may use a residual approach to estimate

the aggregate stand-alone selling price for those promised goods or services

with highly variable or uncertain stand-alone selling prices and then use

another method to estimate the stand-alone selling prices of the individual

goods or services relative to that estimated aggregate stand-alone

selling price determined by the residual approach. When an entity uses

a combination of methods to estimate the stand-alone selling price of each

promised good or service in the contract, the entity shall evaluate whether

allocating the transaction price at those estimated stand-alone selling prices

would be consistent with the allocation objective in paragraph 73 and the

requirements for estimating stand-alone selling prices in paragraph 78.

233 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The following flow chart illustrates how an entity might determine the stand-

alone selling price of a good or service, which may include estimation:

* See section 6.1.2 for further discussion of these estimation approaches, including when

it might be appropriate to use a combination of approaches.

Stand-alone selling prices are determined at contract inception and are not

updated to reflect changes between contract inception and when performance

is complete. For example, assume an entity determines the stand-alone selling

price for a promised good and, before it can finish manufacturing and deliver

that good, the underlying cost of the materials doubles. In such a situation,

the entity would not revise its stand-alone selling price used for this contract.

However, for future contracts involving the same good, the entity would need

to determine whether the change in circumstances (i.e., the significant increase

in the cost to produce the good) warrants a revision of the stand-alone selling

price. If so, the entity would use that revised price for allocations in future

contracts (see section 6.1.3).

Furthermore, if the contract is modified and that modification is treated as

a termination of the existing contract and the creation of a new contract

(see section 3.4.2), the entity would update its estimate of the stand-alone

selling price at the time of the modification. If the contract is modified and

the modification is treated as a separate contract (see section 3.4.1), the

accounting for the original contact would not be affected (and the stand-alone

selling prices of the underlying goods or services would not be updated),

but the stand-alone selling prices of the distinct goods or services of the new,

separate contract would have to be determined at the time of the modification.

Yes

Expected cost plus

a margin approach*

Other reasonable

estimation

approaches that

maximise

observable inputs

Residual approach

(in limited

circumstances)*

Adjusted market

assessment

approach*

Is the stand-alone selling

price

directly observable?

Use the observable price.

Estimate the stand-alone

selling price by

maximising the use of

observable inputs.

Possible estimation

approaches include:

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 234

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

The requirements in IFRS 15 for the allocation of the transaction price to

performance obligations represented a significant change from legacy IFRS.

IAS 18 did not prescribe an allocation method for arrangements involving

multiple goods or services. IFRIC 13 mentioned two allocation methodologies:

allocation based on relative fair value; and allocation using the residual method.

However, IFRIC 13 did not prescribe a hierarchy.

Given the limited guidance in legacy IFRS, some entities had looked to legacy US

GAAP to develop their accounting policies. The requirement to estimate a stand-

alone selling price if a directly observable selling price is not available is not a

new concept for entities that had developed their accounting policies by

reference to the multiple-element arrangements requirements in ASC 605-25.

The requirements in IFRS 15 for estimating a stand-alone selling price are

generally consistent with these US GAAP requirements, except that they do not

require an entity to consider a hierarchy of evidence to make this estimate.

However, the requirement to estimate a stand-alone selling price may have

been a significant change for entities reporting under IFRS that had looked to

other legacy US GAAP requirements to develop their accounting policies for

revenue recognition, such as the software revenue recognition requirements in

ASC 985-605. Those requirements had a different threshold for determining

the stand-alone selling price, requiring observable evidence and not

management estimates.

6.1.1 Factors to consider when estimating the stand-alone selling price

To estimate the stand-alone selling price (if not readily observable), an entity

may consider the stated prices in the contract. However, the standard says an

entity cannot presume that a contractually stated price, or a list price, for a

good or service is the stand-alone selling price. In estimating a stand-alone

selling price, an “entity shall consider all information (including market

conditions, entity-specific factors and information about the customer or class

of customer) that is reasonably available to the entity”

249

. An entity also needs

to maximise the use of observable inputs in its estimate. This is a very broad

requirement for which an entity needs to consider a variety of data sources.

The following list, which is not all-inclusive, provides examples of market

conditions to consider:

•

Potential limits on the selling price of the product

• Competitor pricing for a similar or identical product

• Market awareness and perception of the product

• Current market trends that are likely to affect the pricing

• The entity’s market share and position (e.g., the entity’s ability to dictate

pricing)

• Effects of the geographic area on pricing

• Effects of customisation on pricing

• Expected life of the product, including whether significant technological

advances are expected in the market in the near future

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235 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Examples of entity-specific factors include:

• Profit objectives and internal cost structure

• Pricing practices and pricing objectives (including desired gross profit

margin)

• Effects of customisation on pricing

• Pricing practices used to establish pricing of bundled products

• Effects of a proposed transaction on pricing (e.g., the size of the deal,

the characteristics of the targeted customer)

• Expected life of the product, including whether significant entity-specific

technological advances are expected in the near future

To document its estimated stand-alone selling price, an entity should consider

describing the information that it has considered (e.g., the factors listed above),

especially if there is limited observable data or none at all.

6.1.2 Possible estimation approaches (updated October 2018)

IFRS 15.79 discusses three estimation approaches: (1) the adjusted market

assessment approach; (2) the expected cost plus a margin approach; and

(3) a residual approach. All of these are discussed further below. When applying

IFRS 15, an entity may need to use a different estimation approach for each

of the distinct goods or services underlying the performance obligations in a

contract. In addition, an entity may need to use a combination of approaches

to estimate the stand-alone selling prices of goods or services promised in a

contract, if two or more of those goods or services have highly variable or

uncertain stand-alone selling prices.

Furthermore, these are not the only estimation approaches permitted. IFRS 15

allows any reasonable estimation approach, as long as it is consistent with the

notion of a stand-alone selling price, maximises the use of observable inputs

and is applied on a consistent basis for similar goods or services and customers.

In some cases, an entity may have sufficient observable data to determine the

stand-alone selling price. For example, an entity may have sufficient stand-alone

sales of a particular good or service that provide persuasive evidence of the

stand-alone selling price of that particular good or service. In such situations, no

estimation would be necessary.

In many instances, an entity may not have sufficient stand-alone sales data

to determine the stand-alone selling price based solely on those sales. In those

instances, it must maximise the use of whatever observable inputs it has

available in order to make its estimate. That is, an entity would not disregard

any observable inputs when estimating the stand-alone selling price of a good

or service. An entity should consider all factors contemplated in negotiating the

contract with the customer and the entity’s normal pricing practices factoring in

the most objective and reliable information that is available. While some entities

may have robust practices in place regarding the pricing of goods or services,

some may need to improve their processes to develop estimates of stand-alone

selling prices.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 236

The standard includes the following estimation approaches:

•

Adjusted market assessment approach — this approach focuses on

the amount that the entity believes the market in which it sells goods or

services is willing to pay for a good or service. For example, an entity might

refer to competitors’ prices for similar goods or services and adjust those

prices, as necessary, to reflect the entity’s costs and margins. When using

the adjusted market assessment approach, an entity considers market

conditions, such as those listed in section 6.1.1. Applying this approach is

likely to be easiest when an entity has sold the good or service for a period

of time (such that it has data about customer demand) or a competitor

offers similar goods or services that the entity can use as a basis for its

analysis. Applying this approach may be difficult when an entity is selling

an entirely new good or service because it may be difficult to anticipate

market demand. In these situations, entities may want to use the market

assessment approach, with adjustments, as necessary, to reflect the

entity’s costs and margins, in combination with other approaches to

maximise the use of observable inputs (e.g., using competitors’ pricing,

adjusted based on the market assessment approach in combination with

an entity’s planned internal pricing strategies if the performance obligation

has never been sold separately).

• Expected cost plus margin approach — this approach focuses more on

internal factors (e.g., the entity’s cost basis), but has an external

component as well. That is, the margin included in this approach must

reflect the margin the market would be willing to pay, not just the entity’s

desired margin. The margin may have to be adjusted for differences in

products, geographies, customers and other factors. The expected cost

plus margin approach may be useful in many situations, especially when

the performance obligation has a determinable direct fulfilment cost (e.g.,

a tangible product or an hourly service). However, this approach may be less

helpful when there are no clearly identifiable direct fulfilment costs or the

amount of those costs is unknown (e.g., a new software licence or specified

upgrade rights).

• Residual approach – this approach allows an entity to estimate the stand-

alone selling price of a promised good or service as the difference between

the total transaction price and the observable (i.e., not estimated) stand-

alone selling prices of other promised goods or services in the contract,

provided one of two criteria are met in IFRS 15.79(c). The standard indicates

that this approach can only be used for contracts with multiple promised

goods or services when the selling price of one or more of the promised

goods or services is unknown (either because the historical selling price is

highly variable or because the goods or services have not yet been sold). As a

result, we expect that the use of this approach is likely to be limited. However,

allowing entities to use a residual technique provides relief to entities that

rarely, or never, sell goods or services on a stand-alone basis, such as entities

that sell intellectual property only with physical goods or services.

The Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that the use of the residual

approach cannot result in a stand-alone selling price of zero if the good or

service is distinct.

250

This is because a good or service must have value

on a stand-alone basis to be distinct. The Board also stated that, if use of

the residual approach results in very little, or no, consideration being

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237 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

allocated to a good or service or a bundle of goods or services, an entity

should re-evaluate whether the use of the residual approach is appropriate.

An example of an appropriate use of the residual approach would be

an entity that frequently sells software, professional services and

maintenance, bundled together, at prices that vary widely. However, the

entity also sells the professional services and maintenance individually at

relatively stable prices. The Board indicated that it may be appropriate to

estimate the stand-alone selling price for the software as the difference

between the total transaction price and the observable selling prices of the

professional services and maintenance. See Example 34, Cases B and C,

from IFRS 15 (included in section 6.4) for examples of when the residual

approach may or may not be appropriate.

The Board clarified in the Basis for Conclusions that an entity could also use

the residual approach if there are two or more goods or services in the

contract with highly variable or uncertain stand-alone selling prices, provided

that at least one of the other promised goods or services in the contract has

an observable stand-alone selling price. The Board observed that, in such an

instance, an entity may need to use a combination of techniques to estimate

the stand-alone selling prices.

251

For example, an entity may apply the

residual approach to estimate the aggregate of the stand-alone selling prices

for all of the promised goods or services with highly variable or uncertain

stand-alone selling prices, but then use another approach (e.g., adjusted

market assessment, expected cost plus margin) to estimate the stand-alone

selling prices of each of those promised goods or services with highly

variable or uncertain stand-alone selling prices.

The standard includes the following example in which two estimation

approaches are used to estimate stand-alone selling prices of two different

goods in a contract:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 33—Allocation methodology (IFRS 15.IE164-IE166)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to sell Products A, B and C

in exchange for CU100. The entity will satisfy the performance obligations

for each of the products at different points in time. The entity regularly sells

Product A separately and therefore the stand-alone selling price is directly

observable. The stand-alone selling prices of Products B and C are not directly

observable.

Because the stand-alone selling prices for Products B and C are not directly

observable, the entity must estimate them. To estimate the stand-alone

selling prices, the entity uses the adjusted market assessment approach for

Product B and the expected cost plus a margin approach for Product C. In

making those estimates, the entity maximises the use of observable inputs

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IFRS 15.BC272.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 238

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

(in accordance with paragraph 78 of IFRS 15). The entity estimates the stand-

alone selling prices as follows:

Product

Stand-alone

selling price

Method

Product A

Directly observable (see paragraph 77

of IFRS 15)

Product B

Adjusted market assessment approach

(see paragraph 79(a) of IFRS 15)

Product C

Expected cost plus a margin approach

(see paragraph 79(b) of IFRS 15)

Total

150

The customer receives a discount for purchasing the bundle of goods because

the sum of the stand-alone selling prices (CU150) exceeds the promised

consideration (CU100). The entity considers whether it has observable

evidence about the performance obligation to which the entire discount

belongs (in accordance with paragraph 82 of IFRS 15) and concludes that

it does not. Consequently, in accordance with paragraphs 76 and 81 of

IFRS 15, the discount is allocated proportionately across Products A, B and C.

The discount, and therefore the transaction price, is allocated as follows:

Product

Allocated transaction price

Product A

(CU50 ÷ CU150 × CU100)

Product B

(CU25 ÷ CU150 × CU100)

Product C

(CU75 ÷ CU150 × CU100)

Total

100

Given the flexibility provided by the standard to estimate stand-alone selling

prices, it is both appropriate and necessary for entities to tailor the

approach(es) used to their specific facts and circumstances. Regardless of

whether the entity uses a single approach or a combination of approaches,

however, the entity must evaluate whether the resulting allocation of the

transaction price is consistent with the overall allocation objective in IFRS 15.73

and the requirements for estimating stand-alone selling prices above.

In accordance with IFRS 15, an entity must make a reasonable estimate of

the stand-alone selling price for the distinct good or service underlying each

performance obligation if an observable selling price is not readily available. In

developing this requirement, the Board believed that, even in instances in which

limited information is available, entities should have sufficient information to

develop a reasonable estimate.

239 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

How we see it

Estimating stand-alone selling prices may have required a change in practice

as IAS 18 did not prescribe an allocation method for arrangements involving

multiple goods or services. As a result, entities used a variety of approaches,

which may not have been based on current selling prices.

Entities that had developed previous accounting policies by reference to the

legacy US GAAP requirements in ASC 605-25 should note that there is no

longer a hierarchy such as there was in that standard, which required them

to first consider vendor-specific objective evidence (VSOE), then third-party

evidence and, finally, best estimate of selling price. In addition, entities that

had previously looked to legacy requirements in ASC 985-605 to develop

their accounting policies no longer need to establish VSOE based on a

significant majority of their transactions.

Entities need robust processes to estimate stand-alone selling prices. If

those estimates have limited underlying observable data, it is important for

entities to be able to demonstrate the reasonableness of the calculations

they make in estimating stand-alone selling prices.

6.1.3 Updating estimated stand-alone selling prices

IFRS 15 does not specifically address how frequently estimated stand-alone

selling prices must be updated. Instead, it indicates that an entity must make

this estimate for each distinct good or service underlying each performance

obligation in each contract with a customer, which suggests that an entity needs

to constantly update its estimates.

In practice, we expect that entities will be able to consider their own facts and

circumstances in order to determine how frequently they will need to update

their estimates. If, for example, the information used to estimate the stand-

alone selling price for similar transactions has not changed, an entity may

determine that it is reasonable to use the previously determined stand-alone

selling price. However, in order for the changes in circumstances to be reflected

in the estimate in a timely manner, we expect that an entity would formally

update the estimate on a regular basis (e.g., monthly, quarterly, semi-annually).

The frequency of updates should be based on the facts and circumstances of

the distinct good or service underlying each performance obligation for which

the estimate is made. An entity uses current information each time it develops

or updates its estimate. While the estimates may be updated, the approach used

to estimate stand-alone selling price does not change (i.e., an entity must use

a consistent approach), unless facts and circumstances change.

6.1.4 Additional considerations for determining the stand-alone selling price

(updated October 2018)

While not explicitly stated in IFRS 15, we expect that a single good or service

could have more than one stand-alone selling price. That is, the entity may

be willing to sell goods or services at different prices to different customers.

Furthermore, an entity may use different prices in different geographies or in

markets where it uses different methods to distribute its products (e.g., it may

use a distributor or reseller, rather than selling directly to the end-customer)

or for other reasons (e.g., different cost structures or strategies in different

markets). Accordingly, an entity may need to stratify its analysis to determine

its stand-alone selling price for each class of customer, geography and/or

market, as applicable.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 240

Frequently asked questions

Question 6-1: When estimating the stand-alone selling price, does an entity

have to consider its historical pricing for the sale of the good or service

involved?

Yes, we believe that an entity should consider its historical pricing in all

circumstances, but it may not be determinative. Historical pricing is likely

to be an important input as it may reflect both market conditions and

entity-specific factors and can provide supporting evidence about the

reasonableness of management’s estimate. For example, if management

determines, based on its pricing policies and competition in the market,

that the stand-alone selling price of its good or service is X, historical

transactions within a reasonable range of X would provide supporting

evidence for management’s estimate. However, if historical pricing was only

50% of X, this may indicate that historical pricing is no longer relevant due

to changes in the market, for example, or that management’s estimate is

flawed.

Depending on the facts and circumstances, an entity may conclude that other

factors such as internal pricing policies are more relevant to its determination

of a stand-alone selling price. When historical pricing has been established

using the entity’s normal pricing policies and procedures, it is more likely

that this information will be relevant in the estimation.

If the entity has sold the product separately or has information on

competitors’ pricing for a similar product, it is likely that the entity would find

historical data relevant to its estimate of stand-alone selling prices, among

other factors. In addition, we believe it may be appropriate for entities to

stratify stand-alone selling prices based on: the type or size of customer;

the amount of product or services purchased; the distribution channel; the

geographic location; or other factors.

Question 6-2: When using an expected cost plus margin approach to

estimate a stand-alone selling price, how would an entity determine an

appropriate margin?

When an entity elects to use the expected cost plus margin approach, it

is important for the entity to use an appropriate margin. Determining an

appropriate margin may require the use of significant judgement and

involve the consideration of many market conditions and entity-specific

factors, discussed in section 6.1.1. For example, it would not be appropriate

to determine that the entity’s estimate of stand-alone selling price is

equivalent to cost plus a 30% margin if a review of market conditions

demonstrates that customers are only willing to pay the equivalent of

cost plus a 12% margin for a comparable product. Similarly, it would be

inappropriate to determine that cost plus a specified margin represents

the stand-alone selling price if competitors are selling a comparable product

at twice the determined estimate. Furthermore, the determined margin

may have to be adjusted for differences in products, geographic locations,

customers and other factors.

241 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 6-3: When estimating the stand-alone selling price of a good or

service, can an entity estimate a range of prices or does it have to identify

a point estimate?

Entities might use a range of prices to help estimate the stand-alone selling

price of a good or service. We believe it is reasonable for an entity to use such

a range for the purpose of assessing whether a stand-alone selling price (i.e.,

a single price) that the entity intends to use is reasonably within that range.

That is, we do not believe that an entity is required to determine a point

estimate for each estimated stand-alone selling price if a range is a more

practical means of estimating the stand-alone selling price for a good or

service.

The objective of the standard is to allocate the transaction price to

each performance obligation in “an amount that depicts the amount of

consideration for which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange

for transferring the promised good or service to the customer”. While the

standard does not address ranges of estimates, using a range of prices would

not be inconsistent with the objective of the standard. The only requirements

in the standard are that an entity maximise its use of observable inputs and

apply the estimation approaches consistently. Therefore, the use of a range

would also be consistent with these principles.

Practices we have observed include an entity establishing that a large portion

of the stand-alone selling prices falls within a narrow range (e.g., by reference

to historical pricing). We believe the use of a narrow range is acceptable for

determining estimates of stand-alone selling prices under the standard

because it is consistent with the standard’s principle that an entity must

maximise its use of observable inputs. While the use of a range may be

appropriate for estimating the stand-alone selling price, we believe that

some approaches to identifying this range do not meet the requirements of

IFRS 15. For example, it would not be appropriate for an entity to determine

a range by estimating a single price point for the stand-alone selling price and

then adding an arbitrary range on either side of that point estimate, nor

would it be appropriate to take the historical prices and expand the range

around the midpoint until a significant portion of the historical transactions

fall within that band. The wider the range necessary to capture a high

proportion of historical transactions, the less relevant it is in terms of

providing a useful data point for estimating stand-alone selling prices.

Management’s analysis of market conditions and entity-specific factors could

support it in determining the best estimate of the stand-alone selling price.

The historical pricing data from transactions, while not necessarily

determinative, could be used as supporting evidence for management’s

conclusion. This is because it is consistent with the standard’s principle that

an entity must maximise its use of observable inputs. However, management

would need to analyse the transactions that fall outside the range to

determine whether they have similar characteristics and, therefore, need to

be evaluated as a separate class of transactions with a different estimated

selling price.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 242

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

If the entity has established a reasonable range for the estimated stand-alone

selling prices and the stated contractual price falls within that range, it may

be appropriate to use the stated contractual price as the stand-alone selling

price in the allocation calculation. However, if the stated contractual price

for the good or service falls outside of the range, the stand-alone selling

price needs to be adjusted to a point within the established range in order to

allocate the transaction price on a relative stand-alone selling price basis. In

these situations, the entity would need to determine which point in the range

is most appropriate to use (e.g., the midpoint of the range or the outer limit

nearest to the stated contractual price) when performing the allocation

calculation.

Question 6-4: How should an entity evaluate a contract where the total

transaction price exceeds the sum of the stand-alone selling prices?

If the total transaction price exceeds the sum of the stand-alone selling prices

it may indicate that the customer is paying a premium for bundling the goods

or services in the contract. This situation is likely to be rare because most

customers expect to receive a discount for purchasing a bundle of goods or

services. If a premium exists after determining the stand-alone selling prices

of each good or service, the entity needs to evaluate whether it properly

identified both the estimated stand-alone selling prices (i.e., are they too

low?) and the number of performance obligations in the contract. However,

if the entity determines that a premium does exist after this evaluation, we

believe the entity would need to allocate the premium in a manner consistent

with the standard’s allocation objective, which would typically be on a relative

stand-alone selling price basis.

6.1.5 Measurement of options that are separate performance obligations

(updated September 2019)

An entity that determines that a customer option for additional goods or

services is a separate performance obligation (because the option provides the

customer with a material right, as discussed in section 4.6) needs to determine

the stand-alone selling price of the option.

If the option’s stand-alone selling price is not directly observable, the entity

needs to estimate it. In doing so, IFRS 15.B42 requires an entity to take into

consideration any discount the customer would receive in a stand-alone

transaction and the likelihood that the customer would exercise the option.

Generally, option pricing models consider both the intrinsic value of the option

(i.e., the value of the option if it were exercised today) and its time value

(e.g., the option may be more or less valuable based on the amount of time until

its expiration date and/or the volatility of the price of the underlying good or

service). However, an entity is only required to measure the intrinsic value of

the option when estimating the stand-alone selling price of the option. In the

Basis for Conclusions, the Board noted that the benefits of valuing the time

value component of an option would not justify the cost of doing so.

252

Example 49 in the standard (included in section 4.6) illustrates the

252

IFRS 15.BC390.

243 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

measurement of an option determined to be a material right under

IFRS 15.B42. The following example also illustrates this concept:

Illustration 6-1 — Estimating the stand-alone selling price of options that

are separate performance obligations

Publisher A sells a physical textbook for CU10 and offers the customer an

option to purchase the digital version of the publication at 50% off the retail

price of CU8. The typical discount for digital versions is 15%. Therefore,

Publisher A concludes that this discount exceeds the typical discount offered

to customers and that it provides the customer with a material right.

To estimate the stand-alone selling price of the option, Publisher A estimates

there is a 50% likelihood that a customer will redeem the discount option.

Therefore, Publisher A’s estimated stand-alone selling price of the discount

option is CU1.40 (CU8 digital price x 35% incremental discount x 50%

likelihood of exercising the option).

Publisher A allocates CU1.23 (CU10 x [CU1.40 / (CU1.40 + CU10)]) of the

transaction price to the discount option and recognises revenue for the

option when the customer exercises its right for the digital version or when

the option expires. Publisher A allocates CU8.77 (CU10 — CU1.23) to the

physical book and recognises revenue for the physical book when it transfers

control of the book to the customer.

IFRS 15.B43 provides an alternative to estimating the stand-alone selling price

of an option. This practical alternative applies when the additional goods or

services are both: (1) similar to the original goods or services in the contract

(i.e., the entity continues to provide what it was already providing);

253

and

(2) provided in accordance with the terms of the original contract. The standard

indicates that this practical alternative generally applies to options for contract

renewals (i.e., the renewal option approach).

The Basis for Conclusions states that customer loyalty points and discount

vouchers typically do not meet the criteria for use of this practical alternative.

This is because customer loyalty points and discount vouchers are redeemable

for goods or services that may differ in nature from those offered in the original

contract and the terms of the original contract do not restrict the pricing of the

additional goods or services. For example, if an airline offers flights to

customers in exchange for points

from its frequent flyer programme, the airline is not restricted because it can

subsequently determine the number of points that are required to be redeemed

for any particular flight.

254

Under the practical alternative, a portion of the transaction price is allocated to

the option (i.e., the material right that is a performance obligation) by reference

to the total goods or services expected to be provided to the customer

(including expected renewals) and the corresponding expected consideration.

That is, the total amount of consideration expected to be received from the

customer (including consideration from expected renewals) is allocated to the

total goods or services expected to be provided to the customer, including those

from the expected contract renewals. The amount allocated to the goods or

services that the entity is required to transfer to the customer under the

contract (i.e., excluding the optional goods or services that will be transferred if

the customer exercises the renewal option(s)) is then subtracted from the total

amount of consideration received (or that will be received) for transferring

253

IFRS 15.BC394.

254

IFRS 15.BC394 and BC395.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 244

those goods or services. The difference is the amount that is allocated to the

option at contract inception. An entity using this alternative needs to apply the

constraint on variable consideration (as discussed in section 5.2.3) to the

estimated consideration for the optional goods or services prior to performing

the allocation (see Illustration 6-2, Scenario B below).

It is important to note that the calculation of total expected consideration

(i.e., the hypothetical transaction price), including consideration related to

expected renewals, is only performed for the purpose of allocating a portion of

the hypothetical transaction price to the option at contract inception. It does

not change the enforceable rights or obligations in the contract, nor does it

affect the actual transaction price for the goods or services that the entity is

presently obliged to transfer to the customer (which would not include expected

renewals). Accordingly, the entity would not include any remaining hypothetical

transaction price in its disclosure of remaining performance obligations (see

section 10.5.1). In this respect, the practical alternative is consistent with the

conclusion in Question 4-14 (see section 4.6) that, even if an entity may think

that it is almost certain that a customer will exercise an option to buy additional

goods or services, an entity does not include the additional goods or services

underlying the option as promised goods or services (or performance

obligations), unless there are substantive contractual penalties.

Subsequent to contract inception, if the actual number of contract renewals

is different from an entity’s initial expectations, the entity updates the

hypothetical transaction price and the allocation. However, as discussed in

section 6.1, the estimate of a stand-alone selling price at contract inception is not

updated. See Illustration 6-2, Scenario B below for an example of how an entity

could update its practical alternative calculation based on a change in

expectations.

The following example illustrates the two possible approaches for measuring

options included in a contract:

Illustration 6-2 — Measuring an option

A machinery maintenance contract provider offers a promotion to new

customers who pay full price for the first year of maintenance coverage that

grants them an option to renew the services for up to two years at

a discount. The entity regularly sells maintenance coverage for CU750 per

year. With the promotion, the customer may renew the one-year

maintenance at the end of each year for CU600. The entity concludes that

the ability to renew is a material right because the customer would receive a

discount that exceeds any discount available to other customers. The entity

also determines that no directly observable stand-alone selling price exists for

the option to renew at a discount.

245 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Illustration 6-2 — Measuring an option (cont’d)

Scenario A – Estimate the stand-alone selling price of the option directly

(IFRS 15.B42)

Since the entity has no directly observable evidence of the stand-alone selling

price for the renewal option, it estimates the stand-alone selling price of

an option for a CU150 discount on the renewal of service in years two and

three. When developing its estimate, the entity considers factors such as the

likelihood that the option will be exercised and the price of comparable

discounted offers. For example, the entity may consider the selling price of

an offer for a discounted price of similar services found on a ‘deal of the day’

website.

The option will then be included in the relative stand-alone selling price

allocation. In this example, there are two performance obligations: one-year

of maintenance services; and an option for discounted renewals. The

consideration of CU750 is allocated between these two performance

obligations based on their relative stand-alone selling prices.

Example 49 in the standard (included in section 4.6) illustrates the estimation

of the stand-alone selling price of an option determined to be a material right

under IFRS 15.B42.

Scenario B – Practical alternative to estimating the stand-alone selling

price of the option using the renewal option approach (IFRS 15.B43)

If the entity chooses to use the renewal option approach, it allocates

the transaction price to the option for maintenance services by reference

to the maintenance services expected to be provided (including expected

renewals) and the corresponding expected consideration. Since there is

a discount offered on renewal of the maintenance service, this calculation

will result in less revenue being allocated to the first year of the maintenance

service when compared to the amount of consideration received for the first

year of service (i.e., an amount less than CU750). The difference between

the consideration received (or that will be received) for the first year

of maintenance service and the revenue allocated to the first year of

maintenance service (i.e., CU750) will represent the amount allocated

to the option using the renewal option approach.

Assume the entity obtained 100 new customers under the promotion. Based

on its experience, the entity anticipates approximately 50% attrition annually,

after giving consideration to the anticipated effect that the CU150 discount

will have on attrition. The entity considers the constraint on variable

consideration and concludes that it is not highly probable that a significant

revenue reversal will not occur. Therefore, the entity concludes that, for

this portfolio of contracts, it will ultimately sell 175 contracts, each contract

providing one-year of maintenance services (i.e., 100 customers in the first

year, 50 customers in the second year and 25 customers in the third year).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 246

Illustration 6-2 — Measuring an option (cont’d)

Therefore, the total consideration the entity expects to receive is CU120,000

[(100 x CU750) + (50 x CU600) + (25 x CU600)] (i.e., the hypothetical

transaction price). Assuming the stand-alone selling price for each

maintenance contract period is the same, the entity allocates CU685.71

(CU120,000/175) to each maintenance contract sold.

During the first year, the entity will recognise revenue of CU68,571

(100 one-year maintenance service contracts sold x the allocated price of

CU685.71 per maintenance service contract). Consequently, at contract

inception, the entity would allocate CU6,429 to the option to renew

(CU75,000 cash received – CU68,571 revenue to be recognised in the

first year).

If the actual renewals in years two and three differ from expectations, the

entity would have to update the hypothetical transaction price and allocation

accordingly. However, beyond stating, as discussed in section 6.1,that the

estimate of the stand-alone selling prices at contract inception would not be

updated, the standard is not explicit about how the entity would update the

hypothetical transaction price and allocation. Below is an illustration of how

an entity could update its practical alternative calculation based on a change

in expectations.

For example, assume that the entity experiences less attrition than expected

(e.g., 40% attrition annually, instead of 50%). Therefore, the entity’s revised

estimate is that it will ultimately sell 196 one-year maintenance services

(100 + 60 renewals after year one + 36 renewals after year two). Accordingly,

the total consideration that the entity expects to receive is CU132,600

[(100 x CU750) + (60 x CU600) + (36 x CU600)] (i.e., the updated hypothetical

transaction price). The entity would not update its estimates of the stand-alone

selling prices (which were assumed to be the same for each maintenance

period). As such, the entity allocates CU676.53 (CU132,600/196) to each

maintenance period. The entity would reduce the amount of revenue it

recognises in year one by CU918 (CU68,571 – (100 x CU676.53)) because the

amount allocated to the option would have been higher at contract inception.

See section 5.8 for another example of applying the practical alternative when

the contract includes a non-refundable upfront fee that is deemed to be a

material right.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

The requirement to identify and allocate contract consideration to an option

(that has been determined to be a performance obligation) on a relative stand-

alone selling price basis is likely to have been a significant change in practice for

many IFRS preparers.

For entities that developed their legacy IFRS accounting policy for allocation of

revenue in an arrangement involving multiple goods or services by reference to

legacy US GAAP, the requirements in IFRS 15 are generally consistent with the

previous requirements in ASC 605-25. However, ASC 605-25 required the

entity to estimate the selling price of the option (unless other objective evidence

of the selling price existed) and did not provide an alternative method (i.e., no

renewal option approach) for measuring the option.

247 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions

Question 6-5: Could the form of an option (e.g., a gift card versus a

coupon) affect how an option’s stand-alone selling price is estimated?

We believe that the form of an option should not affect how the stand-

alone selling price is estimated. Consider, for example, a retailer that gives

customers who spend more than CU100 during a specified period a CU15

discount on a future purchase in the form of a coupon or a gift card that

expires two weeks from the sale date. If the retailer determines that this type

of offer represents a material right (see section 4.6), it will need to allocate

a portion of the transaction price to the option on a relative stand-alone

selling price basis.

As discussed in section 6.1, the standard requires that an entity first look to

any directly observable stand-alone selling price. This requires the retailer to

consider the nature of the underlying transaction. In this example, while a

customer can purchase a CU15 gift card for its face value, that transaction

is not the same in substance as a transaction in which the customer is given

a CU15 gift card or coupon in connection with purchasing another good

or service. As such, the retailer could conclude that there is no directly

observable stand-alone selling price for a ‘free’ gift card or coupon obtained

in connection with the purchase of another good or service. It would then

need to estimate the stand-alone selling price in accordance with

IFRS 15.B42.

The estimated stand-alone selling price of an option given in the form of

a gift card or a coupon would be the same because both estimates would

reflect the likelihood that the option will be exercised (i.e., breakage, as

discussed in section 7.9).

Question 6-6: Can an entity use the practical alternative when not all of the

goods or services in the original contract are subject to a renewal option?

In certain instances, it might be appropriate to apply the practical alternative

even if not all of the goods or services in the original contract are subject to

renewal, provided that the renewal is of a good or service that is similar to

that included in the original contract and follows the renewal terms included

in the original contract. Consider a contract to sell hardware and a service-

type warranty where the customer has the option to renew the warranty

only. Furthermore, assume that the renewal option is determined to be a

material right. If the terms of any future warranty renewals are consistent

with the terms provided in the original contract, we believe it is reasonable to

use the practical alternative when allocating the transaction price of the

contract.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 248

6.2 Applying the relative stand-alone selling price method

(updated October 2018)

Once an entity has determined the stand-alone selling price for the separate

goods or services in a contract, the entity allocates the transaction price

to those performance obligations. The standard requires an entity to use

the relative stand-alone selling price method to allocate the transaction price,

except in the two specific circumstances (variable consideration and discounts),

which are described in sections 6.3 and 6.4 below.

Under the relative stand-alone selling price method, the transaction price

is allocated to each performance obligation based on the proportion of

the stand-alone selling price of each performance obligation to the sum of

the stand-alone selling prices of all of the performance obligations in the

contract, as described in Illustration 6-3 below:

Illustration 6-3 — Relative stand-alone selling price allocation

Manufacturing Co. entered into a contract with a customer to sell a machine

for CU100,000. The total contract price included installation of the machine

and a two-year extended warranty. Assume that Manufacturing Co.

determined there were three performance obligations and the stand-alone

selling prices of those performance obligations were as follows: machine —

CU75,000, installation services — CU14,000 and extended warranty —

CU20,000.

The aggregate of the stand-alone selling prices (CU109,000) exceeds the

total transaction price of CU100,000, indicating there is a discount inherent

in the contract. That discount must be allocated to each of the individual

performance obligations based on the relative stand-alone selling price of

each performance obligation. Therefore, the amount of the CU100,000

transaction price is allocated to each performance obligation as follows:

Machine — CU68,807 (CU100,000 x (CU75,000/CU109,000))

Installation — CU12,844 (CU100,000 x (CU14,000/CU109,000))

Warranty — CU18,349 (CU100,000 x (CU20,000/CU109,000))

The entity would recognise as revenue the amount allocated to each

performance obligation when (or as) each performance obligation is satisfied.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

The method of allocation in IFRS 15 is not significantly different from

the mechanics of applying the methods that were mentioned in IFRIC 13 to

allocate consideration, such as a relative fair value approach. However, the

methodology may be complicated when an entity applies one or both of the

exceptions provided in IFRS 15 (described in sections 6.3 and 6.4 below).

In addition, it is likely that the standard required a change in practice for entities

that did not apply a relative allocation approach under legacy IFRS (e.g., entities

that previously applied the residual approach).

249 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions

Question 6-7: How should an entity allocate the transaction price in a

contract with multiple performance obligations in which the entity acts as

both a principal and an agent?

The standard does not illustrate the allocation of the transaction price for

a contract with multiple performance obligations in which the entity acts

as both a principal and an agent (see section 4.4 for a discussion of principal

versus agent considerations). Below we illustrate two acceptable ways to

perform the allocation for this type of contract that are consistent with the

standard’s objective for allocating the transaction price. Entities need to

evaluate the facts and circumstances of their contracts to make sure that the

allocation involving multiple performance obligations in which an entity acts

as both a principal and an agent meets the allocation objectives in IFRS 15.

Illustration 6-4 – Allocation when an entity is both a principal and an

agent in a contract

Entity X sells two distinct products (i.e., Product A and Product B) to

Customer Y, along with a distinct service for an aggregate contract price

of CU800. Entity X is the principal for the sale of Product A and Product B,

but is an agent for the sale of the service.

The stand-alone selling price of each good and service in the contract is, as

follows:

Contract

Stand-alone

selling price

Product A

500

Product B

300

Service

200

Total

1,000

Entity X earns a 20% commission from the third-party service provider

based on the stand-alone selling price of the service. That is, Entity X earns

CU40 of commission (i.e., CU200 x 20%) and remits the remaining CU160

to the third-party service provider.

Method A – Entity X determines that it has provided a single discount of

CU200 (i.e., sum of stand-alone selling prices of CU1,000 less the contract

price of CU800) on the bundle of goods and services sold to Customer Y in

the contract (i.e., Products A and B and the service provided by the third-

party). In order to allocate the discount to all of the goods and services in

the contract, Entity X considers the performance obligation for the agency

service as part of the contract with Customer Y for purposes of allocating

the transaction price. Entity X determines the stand-alone selling prices

of Products A and B and the agency service and allocates the transaction

price of CU640 (i.e., CU800 contract price less CU160 to be remitted to

the third-party service provider) for Products A and B and the service

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 250

Frequently asked questions

Illustration 6-4 – Allocation when an entity is both a principal and

an agent in a contract (cont’d)

on a relative stand-alone selling price basis. This method is illustrated, as

follows:

Contract

Stand-alone

selling price

Allocated

transaction

price

Product A

500

(500 ÷ 840 × 640)

381

Product B

300

(300 ÷ 840 × 640)

229

Service

(40 ÷ 840 × 640)

Total

840

640

Method B - Entity X determines that it has provided a discount of CU200

on Products A and B since it is the principal for the transfer of those

goods to Customer Y. Entity X believes the third-party service provider is

a separate customer for its agency services and the commission Entity X

expects to be entitled to receive for the agency service is not part of

the transaction price in the contract with Customer Y. Entity X allocates a

transaction price of CU600 (i.e., CU800 contract price less CU200 stand-

alone selling price of service) to Product A and B on a relative stand-alone

selling price basis. This method is illustrated, as follows:

Contract 1

Stand-alone

selling price

Allocated

transaction

price

Product A

500

(500 ÷ 800 × 600)

375

Product B

300

(300 ÷ 800 × 600)

225

Total

800

600

The entity would separately recognise CU40 for its earned commission

on the service contract when the performance obligation for the agency

service has been satisfied.

In either method, the same amount of revenue is ultimately recognised

(i.e., CU640). However, the timing of revenue recognition would be

different if the products and agency service are transferred to the

customer at different times.

251 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

6.3 Allocating variable consideration (updated October 2018)

The relative stand-alone selling price method is the default method for

allocating the transaction price. However, the Board noted in the Basis for

Conclusion on IFRS 15 that this method may not always result in a faithful

depiction of the amount of consideration to which an entity expects to be

entitled from the customer.

255

Therefore, the standard provides two exceptions

to the relative selling price method of allocating the transaction price.

The first relates to the allocation of variable consideration (see section 6.4 for

the second exception on the allocation of a discount). This exception requires

variable consideration to be allocated entirely to a specific part of a contract,

such as one or more (but not all) performance obligations in the contract (e.g.,

a bonus may be contingent on an entity transferring a promised good or service

within a specified period of time) or one or more (but not all) distinct goods or

services promised in a series of distinct goods or services that form part of

a single performance obligation (see section 4.2.2) (e.g., the consideration

promised for the second year of a two-year cleaning service contract will

increase on the basis of movements in a specified inflation index).

Two criteria must be met to apply this exception, as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

85. An entity shall allocate a variable amount (and subsequent changes to

that amount) entirely to a performance obligation or to a distinct good or

service that forms part of a single performance obligation in accordance

with paragraph 22(b) if both of the following criteria are met:

(a) the terms of a variable payment relate specifically to the entity’s efforts

to satisfy the performance obligation or transfer the distinct good or

service (or to a specific outcome from satisfying the performance

obligation or transferring the distinct good or service); and

(b) allocating the variable amount of consideration entirely to the

performance obligation or the distinct good or service is consistent

with the allocation objective in paragraph 73 when considering all

of the performance obligations and payment terms in the contract.

86. The allocation requirements in paragraphs 73–83 shall be applied to

allocate the remaining amount of the transaction price that does not meet

the criteria in paragraph 85.

While the language in IFRS 15.85 in the extract above implies that this

exception is limited to allocating variable consideration to a single performance

obligation or a single distinct good or service within a series, IFRS 15.84

indicates that the variable consideration can be allocated to ’one or more, but

not all’, performance obligations or distinct goods or services within a series.

We understand it was not the Board’s intent to limit this exception to a single

performance obligation or a single distinct good or service within a series,

even though the standard uses a singular construction for the remainder of

the discussion and does not repeat ‘one or more, but not all’.

The Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that this exception is necessary

because allocating contingent amounts to all performance obligations in

a contract may not reflect the economics of a transaction in all cases.

256

Allocating variable consideration entirely to a distinct good or service may

be appropriate when the result is that the amount allocated to that particular

255

IFRS 15.BC280.

256

IFRS 15.BC278.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 252

good or service is reasonable relative to all other performance obligations and

payment terms in the contract. Subsequent changes in variable consideration

must be allocated in a consistent manner.

Entities may need to exercise significant judgement to determine whether

they meet the requirements to allocate variable consideration to specific

performance obligations or distinct goods or services within a series.

Firstly, entities need to determine whether they meet the first criterion in

IFRS 15.85, which requires that the terms of a variable payment relate

specifically to an entity’s efforts to satisfy a performance obligation, or to

transfer a distinct good or service that is part of a series.

In performing this assessment, an entity needs to consider the nature of its

promise and how the performance obligation has been defined. In addition, the

entity needs to clearly understand the variable payment terms and how they

align with the entity’s promise. This includes evaluating any clawbacks or other

potential adjustments to the variable payment. For example, an entity may

conclude that the nature of its promise in a contract is to provide hotel

management services (including management of the hotel employees,

accounting services, training, and procurement, etc.) that comprise a series of

distinct services (i.e., daily hotel management). For providing this service, the

entity receives a variable fee based on a percentage of occupancy rates. It is

likely that the entity would determine that it meets the first criterion to allocate

the daily variable fee to the distinct service performed that day because the

uncertainty related to the consideration is resolved on a daily basis as the entity

satisfies its obligation to perform daily hotel management services. This is

because the variable payments specifically relate to transferring the distinct

service that is part of a series of distinct goods or services (i.e., the daily

management service). The fact that the payments do not directly correlate with

each of the underlying activities performed each day does not affect this

assessment. Refer to section 4 for further discussion of identifying the nature

of the goods or services promised in a contract, including whether they meet

the series requirement.

In contrast, consider an entity that has a contract to sell equipment and

maintenance services for that equipment. The maintenance services have been

determined to be a series of distinct services because the customer benefits

from the entity standing ready to perform in case the equipment breaks down.

The consideration for the maintenance services is based on usage of the

equipment and is, therefore, variable. In this example, the payment terms do

not align with the nature of the entity’s promise. This is because the payment

terms are usage-based, but the nature of the entity’s promise is to stand ready

each day to perform any maintenance that may be needed, regardless of

how much the customer uses the equipment. Since the entity does not meet

the criteria to apply the allocation exception, it must estimate the variable

consideration over the life of the contract, including consideration of the

constraint. The entity would then recognise revenue based on its selected

measure of progress (see section 7.1.4).

After assessment of the first criterion, entities need to determine whether

they meet the second criterion in IFRS 15.85; to confirm that allocating the

consideration in this manner is consistent with the overall allocation objective

of the standard in IFRS 15.73. That is, an entity should allocate to each

performance obligation (or distinct good or service in a series) the portion of the

transaction price that reflects the amount of consideration the entity expects to

be entitled in exchange for transferring those goods or services to the

customer.

253 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The TRG discussed four types of contracts with different variable payment

terms that may be accounted for as series of distinct goods or services (see

section 4.2.2) and for which an entity may reasonably conclude that the

allocation objective has been met (and the variable consideration could be

allocated to each distinct period of service, such as day, month or year) as

follows:

257

•

Declining prices – The TRG agenda paper included an IT outsourcing

contract in which the events that trigger the variable consideration are the

same throughout the contract, but the per unit price declines over the life

of the contract. The allocation objective could be met if the pricing is based

on market terms (e.g., if the contract contains a benchmarking clause) or

the changes in price are substantive and linked to changes in an entity’s

cost to fulfil the obligation or value provided to the customer.

•

Consistent fixed prices – The TRG agenda paper included a transaction

processing contract with an unknown quantity of transactions, but a fixed

contractual rate per transaction. The allocation objective could be met if

the fees are priced consistently throughout the contract and the rates

charged are consistent with the entity’s standard pricing practices with

similar customers.

•

Consistent variable fees, cost reimbursements and incentive fees – The TRG

agenda paper included a hotel management contract in which monthly

consideration is based on a percentage of monthly rental revenue,

reimbursement of labour costs and an annual incentive payment. The

allocation objective could be met for each payment stream as follows.

The base monthly fees could meet the allocation objective if the consistent

measure throughout the contract period (e.g., 1% of monthly rental

revenue) reflects the value to the customer. The cost reimbursements could

meet the allocation objective if they are commensurate with an entity’s

efforts to fulfil the promise each day. The annual incentive fee could also

meet the allocation objective if it reflects the value delivered to the

customer for the annual period and is reasonable compared with incentive

fees that could be earned in other periods.

•

Sales-based and usage-based royalty – The TRG agenda paper included

a franchise agreement in which franchisor will receive a sales-based royalty

of 5% in addition to a fixed fee. The allocation objective could be met if

the consistent formula throughout the licence period reasonably reflects

the value to the customer of its access to the franchisor’s intellectual

property (e.g., reflected by the sales that have been generated by the

customer).

It is important to note that allocating variable consideration to one or more,

but not all, performance obligations or distinct goods or services in a series is

a requirement, not a policy choice. If the above criteria are met, the entity must

allocate the variable consideration to the related performance obligation(s) or

distinct goods or services in a series.

257

TRG Agenda paper no. 39, Application of the Series Provision and Allocation of Variable

Consideration, dated 13 July 2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 254

The standard provides the following example to illustrate when an entity may

or may not be able to allocate variable consideration to a specific part of a

contract. Note that the example focuses on licences of intellectual property,

which are discussed in section 8:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 35 — Allocation of variable consideration (IFRS 15.IE178-IE187)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer for two intellectual property

licences (Licences X and Y), which the entity determines to represent two

performance obligations each satisfied at a point in time. The stand-alone

selling prices of Licences X and Y are CU800 and CU1,000, respectively.

Case A—Variable consideration allocated entirely to one performance

obligation

The price stated in the contract for Licence X is a fixed amount of CU800

and for Licence Y the consideration is three per cent of the customer’s future

sales of products that use Licence Y. For purposes of allocation, the entity

estimates its sales-based royalties (ie the variable consideration) to be

CU1,000, in accordance with paragraph 53 of IFRS 15.

To allocate the transaction price, the entity considers the criteria in

paragraph 85 of IFRS 15 and concludes that the variable consideration

(ie the sales-based royalties) should be allocated entirely to Licence Y.

The entity concludes that the criteria in paragraph 85 of IFRS 15 are met

for the following reasons:

(a) The variable payment relates specifically to an outcome from the

performance obligation to transfer Licence Y (ie the customer’s

subsequent sales of products that use Licence Y).

(b) Allocating the expected royalty amounts of CU1,000 entirely to

Licence Y is consistent with the allocation objective in paragraph 73

of IFRS 15. This is because the entity’s estimate of the amount of sales-

based royalties (CU1,000) approximates the stand-alone selling price of

Licence Y and the fixed amount of CU800 approximates the stand-alone

selling price of Licence X. The entity allocates CU800 to Licence X in

accordance with paragraph 86 of IFRS 15. This is because, based on

an assessment of the facts and circumstances relating to both licences,

allocating to Licence Y some of the fixed consideration in addition to all

of the variable consideration would not meet the allocation objective in

paragraph 73 of IFRS 15.

The entity transfers Licence Y at inception of the contract and transfers

Licence X one month later. Upon the transfer of Licence Y, the entity does

not recognise revenue because the consideration allocated to Licence Y

is in the form of a sales-based royalty. Therefore, in accordance with

paragraph B63 of IFRS 15, the entity recognises revenue for the sales-

based royalty when those subsequent sales occur.

When Licence X is transferred, the entity recognises as revenue the CU800

allocated to Licence X.

255 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

Case B—Variable consideration allocated on the basis of stand-alone selling

prices

The price stated in the contract for Licence X is a fixed amount of CU300

and for Licence Y the consideration is five per cent of the customer’s future

sales of products that use Licence Y. The entity’s estimate of the sales-based

royalties (ie the variable consideration) is CU1,500 in accordance with

paragraph 53 of IFRS 15.

To allocate the transaction price, the entity applies the criteria in

paragraph 85 of IFRS 15 to determine whether to allocate the variable

consideration (ie the sales-based royalties) entirely to Licence Y. In applying

the criteria, the entity concludes that even though the variable payments

relate specifically to an outcome from the performance obligation to

transfer Licence Y (ie the customer’s subsequent sales of products that

use Licence Y), allocating the variable consideration entirely to Licence Y

would be inconsistent with the principle for allocating the transaction price.

Allocating CU300 to Licence X and CU1,500 to Licence Y does not reflect a

reasonable allocation of the transaction price on the basis of the stand-alone

selling prices of Licences X and Y of CU800 and CU1,000, respectively.

Consequently, the entity applies the general allocation requirements in

paragraphs 76–80 of IFRS 15.

The entity allocates the transaction price of CU300 to Licences X and Y

on the basis of relative stand-alone selling prices of CU800 and CU1,000,

respectively. The entity also allocates the consideration related to the sales-

based royalty on a relative stand-alone selling price basis. However, in

accordance with paragraph B63 of IFRS 15, when an entity licenses

intellectual property in which the consideration is in the form of a sales-based

royalty, the entity cannot recognise revenue until the later of the following

events: the subsequent sales occur or the performance obligation is satisfied

(or partially satisfied).

Licence Y is transferred to the customer at the inception of the contract and

Licence X is transferred three months later. When Licence Y is transferred,

the entity recognises as revenue the CU167 (CU1,000 ÷ CU1,800 × CU300)

allocated to Licence Y. When Licence X is transferred, the entity recognises

as revenue the CU133 (CU800 ÷ CU1,800 × CU300) allocated to Licence X.

In the first month, the royalty due from the customer’s first month of sales

is CU200. Consequently, in accordance with paragraph B63 of IFRS 15,

the entity recognises as revenue the CU111 (CU1,000 ÷ CU1,800 × CU200)

allocated to Licence Y (which has been transferred to the customer and

is therefore a satisfied performance obligation). The entity recognises a

contract liability for the CU89 (CU800 ÷ CU1,800 × CU200) allocated to

Licence X. This is because although the subsequent sale by the entity’s

customer has occurred, the performance obligation to which the royalty

has been allocated has not been satisfied.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 256

Frequently asked questions

Question 6-8: In order to meet the criteria to allocate variable consideration

entirely to a specific part of a contract, must the allocation be made on

a relative stand-alone selling price basis? [TRG meeting 13 July 2015 –

Agenda paper no. 39]

No. TRG members generally agreed that a relative stand-alone selling price

allocation is not required to meet the allocation objective when it relates to

the allocation of variable consideration to a specific part of a contract (e.g., a

distinct good or service in a series). The Basis for Conclusions notes that

stand-alone selling price is the default method for meeting the allocation

objective, but other methods could be used in certain instances (e.g., in

allocating variable consideration).

258

Stakeholders had questioned whether the variable consideration exception

would have limited application to a series of distinct goods or services (see

section 4.2.2). That is, they wanted to know whether the standard would

require that each distinct service that is substantially the same be allocated

the same amount (absolute value) of variable consideration. While the

standard does not state what other allocation methods could be used beyond

the relative stand-alone selling price basis, TRG members generally agreed

that an entity would apply reasonable judgement to determine whether

the allocation results in a reasonable outcome (and, therefore, meets the

allocation objective in the standard), as discussed above in section 6.3.

6.4 Allocating a discount

The second exception to the relative stand-alone selling price allocation (see

section 6.3 for the first exception) relates to discounts inherent in contracts.

When an entity sells a bundle of goods or services, the selling price of the

bundle is often less than the sum of the stand-alone selling prices of the

individual elements. Under the relative stand-alone selling price allocation

method, this discount would be allocated proportionately to all performance

obligations. However, if an entity determines that a discount is not related to all

of the promised goods or services in the contract, the entity must allocate the

contract’s entire discount only to the goods or services to which it relates, if all

of the following criteria are met:

Extract from IFRS 15

82. An entity shall allocate a discount entirely to one or more, but not all,

performance obligations in the contract if all of the following criteria are met:

(a) the entity regularly sells each distinct good or service (or each bundle of

distinct goods or services) in the contract on a stand-alone basis;

(b) the entity also regularly sells on a stand-alone basis a bundle (or bundles)

of some of those distinct goods or services at a discount to the stand-

alone selling prices of the goods or services in each bundle; and

paragraph 82(b) is substantially the same as the discount in the contract

and an analysis of the goods or services in each bundle provides

observable evidence of the performance obligation (or performance

obligations) to which the entire discount in the contract belongs.

An entity makes this determination when the price of certain goods or services

is largely independent of other goods or services in the contract. In these

258

IFRS 15.BC279-BC280.

257 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

situations, an entity is able to effectively ’carve out’ an individual performance

obligation, or some of the performance obligations in the contract, and allocate

the contract’s entire discount to one or more, but not all, performance

obligations provided the above criteria are met. However, an entity cannot use

this exception to allocate only a portion of the discount to one or more, but not

all, performance obligations in the contract.

The Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that the requirements in

IFRS 15.82 generally apply to contracts that include at least three performance

obligations. While the standard contemplates that an entity may allocate the

entire discount to as few as one performance obligation, the Board noted that

such situations are expected to be rare.

259

Instead, the Board believes it is

more likely that an entity will be able to demonstrate that a discount relates to

two or more performance obligations. This is because an entity is likely to have

observable information that the stand-alone selling price of a group of promised

goods or services is lower than the price of those items when sold separately. It

may be more difficult for an entity to have sufficient evidence to demonstrate

that a discount is associated with a single performance obligation. When an

entity applies a discount to one or more performance obligations in accordance

with the above criteria, the standard states that the discount is allocated first

before using the residual approach to estimate the stand-alone selling price of

a good or service (see section 6.1.2).

260

The standard includes the following example to illustrate this exception and

when the use of the residual approach for estimating stand-alone selling prices

may or may not be appropriate:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 34 — Allocating a discount (IFRS 15.IE167-IE177)

An entity regularly sells Products A, B and C individually, thereby establishing

the following stand-alone selling prices:

Product

Stand-alone selling price

Product A

Product B

Product C

Total

140

In addition, the entity regularly sells Products B and C together for CU60.

Case A—Allocating a discount to one or more performance obligations

The entity enters into a contract with a customer to sell Products A, B and C

in exchange for CU100. The entity will satisfy the performance obligations for

each of the products at different points in time.

259

IFRS 15.BC283.

260

IFRS 15.83.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 258

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

The contract includes a discount of CU40 on the overall transaction, which

would be allocated proportionately to all three performance obligations when

allocating the transaction price using the relative stand-alone selling price

method (in accordance with paragraph 81 of IFRS 15). However, because

the entity regularly sells Products B and C together for CU60 and Product A

for CU40, it has evidence that the entire discount should be allocated to the

promises to transfer Products B and C in accordance with paragraph 82 of

IFRS 15.

If the entity transfers control of Products B and C at the same point in time,

then the entity could, as a practical matter, account for the transfer of those

products as a single performance obligation. That is, the entity could allocate

CU60 of the transaction price to the single performance obligation and

recognise revenue of CU60 when Products B and C simultaneously transfer

to the customer.

If the contract requires the entity to transfer control of Products B and C at

different points in time, then the allocated amount of CU60 is individually

allocated to the promises to transfer Product B (stand-alone selling price of

CU55) and Product C (stand-alone selling price of CU45) as follows:

Product

Allocated transaction price

Product B

(CU55 ÷ CU100 total stand-alone selling price ×

CU60)

Product C

(CU45 ÷ CU100 total stand-alone selling price ×

CU60)

Total

Case B—Residual approach is appropriate

The entity enters into a contract with a customer to sell Products A, B and C

as described in Case A. The contract also includes a promise to transfer

Product D. Total consideration in the contract is CU130. The stand-alone

selling price for Product D is highly variable (see paragraph 79(c) of IFRS 15)

because the entity sells Product D to different customers for a broad range

of amounts (CU15–CU45). Consequently, the entity decides to estimate the

stand-alone selling price of Product D using the residual approach.

Before estimating the stand-alone selling price of Product D using the residual

approach, the entity determines whether any discount should be allocated to

the other performance obligations in the contract in accordance with

paragraphs 82 and 83 of IFRS 15.

As in Case A, because the entity regularly sells Products B and C together

for CU60 and Product A for CU40, it has observable evidence that CU100

should be allocated to those three products and a CU40 discount should be

allocated to the promises to transfer Products B and C in accordance with

paragraph 82 of IFRS 15. Using the residual approach, the entity estimates

259 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

the stand-alone selling price of Product D to be CU30 as follows:

Product

Stand-alone

selling price

Method

Product A

Directly observable (see paragraph 77

of IFRS 15)

Products B

and C

Directly observable with discount (see

paragraph 82 of IFRS 15)

Product D

Residual approach (see paragraph 79(c)

of IFRS 15)

Total

130

The entity observes that the resulting CU30 allocated to Product D is within

the range of its observable selling prices (CU15–CU45). Therefore, the

resulting allocation (see above table) is consistent with the allocation

objective in paragraph 73 of IFRS 15 and the requirements in paragraph 78

of IFRS 15.

Case C—Residual approach is inappropriate

The same facts as in Case B apply to Case C except the transaction price is

CU105 instead of CU130. Consequently, the application of the residual

approach would result in a stand-alone selling price of CU5 for Product D

(CU105 transaction price less CU100 allocated to Products A, B and C).

The entity concludes that CU5 would not faithfully depict the amount of

consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for

satisfying its performance obligation to transfer Product D, because CU5

does not approximate the stand-alone selling price of Product D, which

ranges from CU15–CU45. Consequently, the entity reviews its observable

data, including sales and margin reports, to estimate the stand-alone selling

price of Product D using another suitable method. The entity allocates the

transaction price of CU105 to Products A, B, C and D using the relative stand-

alone selling prices of those products in accordance with paragraphs 73–80

of IFRS 15.

How we see it

The ability to allocate a discount to some, but not all, performance

obligations within a contract was a significant change from previous practice

under legacy IFRS. This exception gives entities the ability to better reflect

the economics of the transaction in certain circumstances. However, the

criteria that must be met to demonstrate that a discount is associated with

only some of the performance obligations in the contract is likely to limit the

number of transactions that are eligible for this exception.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 260

Frequently asked questions

Question 6-9: If a discount also meets the definition of variable

consideration because it is variable in amount and/or contingent on a future

event), which allocation exception would an entity apply? [TRG meeting

30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 31]

TRG members generally agreed that an entity will first determine whether a

variable discount meets the variable consideration exception (see section 6.3

above).

261

If it does not, the entity then considers whether it meets the

discount exception (see section 6.4 above). In reaching that conclusion,

the TRG agenda paper noted that IFRS 15.86 establishes a hierarchy for

allocating variable consideration that requires an entity to identify variable

consideration and then determine whether it should allocate variable

consideration to one or some, but not all, performance obligations (or distinct

goods or services that comprise a single performance obligation) based on

the exception for allocating variable consideration. The entity would consider

the requirements for allocating a discount only if the discount is not variable

consideration (i.e., the amount of the discount is fixed and not contingent

on future events) or the entity does not meet the criteria to allocate variable

consideration to a specific part of the contract.

6.5 Changes in transaction price after contract inception

(updated September 2019)

The standard requires entities to determine the transaction price at contract

inception. However, there could be changes to the transaction price after

contract inception. For example, as discussed in section 5.2.4, when a contract

includes variable consideration, entities need to update their estimate of the

transaction price at the end of each reporting period to reflect any changes in

circumstances. Changes in the transaction price can also occur due to contract

modifications (see section 3.4).

As stated in IFRS 15.88-89, changes in the total transaction price are generally

allocated to the performance obligations on the same basis as the initial

allocation, whether they are allocated based on the relative stand-alone selling

price (i.e., using the same proportionate share of the total) or to individual

performance obligations under the variable consideration exception discussed

in section 6.3. Amounts allocated to a satisfied performance obligation should

be recognised as revenue, or a reduction in revenue, in the period that the

transaction price changes.

As discussed in section 6.1, stand-alone selling prices are not updated after

contract inception, unless the contract has been modified. Furthermore, any

amounts allocated to satisfied (or partially satisfied) performance obligations

should be recognised in revenue in the period in which the transaction price

changes (i.e., on a cumulative catch-up basis). This could result in either an

increase or decrease to revenue in relation to a satisfied performance obligation

or to cumulative revenue recognised for a partially satisfied over time

performance obligation (see section 7.1).

261

IFRS 15.86.

261 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The following example illustrates this concept for a partially satisfied over-time

performance obligation:

Illustration 6-5 — Change in transaction price after contract inception

Entity A, a construction company, enters into a contract with a customer on

1 January 20X1 to build three specific amenities at a community centre, a

swimming pool, playground and a parking lot, for CU3,000,000. Entity A will

earn a bonus of CU250,000 if it completes the swimming pool by 1 May

20X1.

At contract inception, Entity A concludes that the swimming pool, playground

and parking lot are each distinct and, therefore, represent separate

performance obligations. Entity A also concludes that the CU250,000 bonus

needs to be allocated entirely to the swimming pool because the criteria in

IFRS 15.85 for the variable consideration allocation are met. However,

Entity A does not expect it will be entitled to the CU250,000 bonus related to

the completion of the swimming pool by 1 May 20X1 due to factors outside of

Entity A’s control, including inclement winter weather and the swimming pool

supplier’s backlog. Therefore, Entity A uses the most likely amount method to

estimate variable consideration and does not include the bonus in the

transaction price.

As at 1 January 20X1, Entity A allocates the transaction price to the

performance obligations on a relative stand-alone selling price basis, as

follows:

Performance

obligations

Allocation of the

transaction price

Swimming pool

CU2,000,000

Playground

CU750,000

Parking lot

CU250,000

Total

CU3,000,000

Entity A concludes that each of the performance obligations are satisfied over

time because they meet the criteria in IFRS 15.35 (refer to section 7.1 for

further discussion on evaluating whether performance obligations are

satisfied over time). Due to the nature of Entity A’s business, it determines

that an input method based on costs incurred is an appropriate measure of

progress over time.

As at 31 March 20X1, Entity A determines that it has incurred 60% of the

total expected costs to complete each of its performance obligations.

Therefore, Entity A recognises CU1,800,000 (CU3,000,000 x 60%) as

revenue.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 262

Illustration 6-5 — Change in transaction price after contract inception

(cont’d)

In addition, as at 31 March 20X1, Entity A reassesses its estimate of variable

consideration in the contract (including the constraint) and believes it will be

able to complete the swimming pool by 1 May 20X1, because the significant

uncertainties related to the weather and the supplier have been resolved.

Entity A updates its transaction price to include the CU250,000 bonus

related to the swimming pool in accordance with IFRS 15.59. Therefore,

Entity A updates the transaction price as at 31 March 20X1, as follows:

Performance

obligations

Allocation of the

transaction price

Swimming pool

CU2,250,000

Playground

CU750,000

Parking lot

CU250,000

Total

CU3,250,000

Due to the change in the transaction price related to the swimming pool

performance obligation, Entity A recognises CU150,000 (CU250,000 x 60%)

as revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis as at 31 March 20X1.

If the change in the transaction price is due to a contract modification, the

contract modification requirements in IFRS 15.18-21 must be followed (see

section 3.4 for a discussion on contract modifications). However, when

contracts include variable consideration, it is possible that changes in the

transaction price that arise after a modification may (or may not) be related to

performance obligations that existed before the modification. For changes in

the transaction price arising after a contract modification that is not treated as

a separate contract, an entity must apply one of the two approaches:

•

If the change in transaction price is attributable to an amount of variable

consideration promised before the modification and the modification was

considered a termination of the existing contract and the creation of

a new contract, the entity allocates the change in transaction price to

the performance obligations that existed before the modification.

• In all other cases, the change in the transaction price is allocated to the

performance obligations in the modified contract (i.e., the performance

obligations that were unsatisfied and partially unsatisfied immediately after

the modification).

The first approach is applicable to a change in transaction price that occurs

after a contract modification that is accounted for in accordance with

IFRS 15.21(a) (i.e., as a termination of the existing contract and the creation

of a new contract) and the change in the transaction price is attributable to

variable consideration promised before the modification. For example, an

estimate of variable consideration in the initial contract may have changed or

may no longer be constrained. In this scenario, the Board decided that an entity

should allocate the corresponding change in the transaction price to the

performance obligations identified in the contract before the modification

(e.g., the original contract), including performance obligations that were

satisfied prior to the modification.

262

That is, it would not be appropriate for

an entity to allocate the corresponding change in the transaction price to

the performance obligations that are in the modified contract if the promised

262

IFRS 15.BC83.

263 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

variable consideration (and the resolution of the associated uncertainty) were

not affected by the contract modification.

The second approach (i.e., IFRS 15.90(b)) is applicable in all other cases when

a modification is not treated as a separate contract (e.g., when the change in

the transaction price is not attributable to variable consideration promised

before the modification).

6.6 Allocation of transaction price to components outside the

scope of IFRS 15 (updated October 2018)

Revenue arrangements may include some components that are not within the

scope of IFRS 15. As discussed in section 2.5, the standard indicates that in

such situations, an entity must first apply the other standards if those standards

address separation and/or measurement.

For example, some standards require certain components, such as financial

liabilities, to be accounted for at fair value. As a result, when a revenue contract

includes that type of component, the fair value of that component must be

separated from the total transaction price. The remaining transaction price

is then allocated to the remaining performance obligations.

The following example illustrates this concept:

Illustration 6-6 — Arrangements with components outside the scope of

the standard

Retailer sells products to customers and often bundles them with prepaid

gift cards when the customer buys multiple units of its products. The prepaid

gift cards are non-refundable, non-redeemable and non-exchangeable for

cash and do not have an expiry date or back-end fees. That is, any remaining

balance on the prepaid gift cards does not reduce, unless it is spent by

the customer. Customers can redeem prepaid gift cards only at third-party

merchants specified by Retailer (i.e., the prepaid gift card cannot be

redeemed at the Retailer) in exchange for goods or services up to a specified

monetary amount. When a customer uses the prepaid gift cards at a

merchant(s) to purchase goods or services, Retailer delivers cash to the

merchant(s).

Customer X enters into a contract to purchase 100 units of a product and

a prepaid gift card for total consideration of CU1,000. Because it bought

100 units, Retailer gives Customer X a discount on the bundle. The stand-

alone selling price of the product and the fair value of the prepaid gift card

are CU950 and CU200, respectively.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 264

Illustration 6-6 — Arrangements with components outside the scope of

the standard (cont’d)

Retailer determines that it has a contractual obligation to deliver cash to

specified merchants on behalf of the prepaid gift card owner (Customer X)

and that this obligation is conditional upon Customer X using the prepaid

gift card to purchase goods or services. Also, Retailer does not have an

unconditional right to avoid delivering cash to settle this contractual

obligation. Therefore, Retailer concludes that the liability for the prepaid gift

card meets the definition of a financial liability and applies the requirements

in IFRS 9 to account for it. In accordance with IFRS 15.7, because IFRS 9

provides measurement requirements for initial recognition (i.e., requires that

financial liabilities within its scope be initially recognised at fair value),

Retailer excludes from the IFRS 15 transaction price the fair value of the

prepaid gift card. Retailer allocates the remaining transaction price to the

products purchased. The allocation of the total transaction price is, as

follows:

stand-alone

selling price

and fair value

% Allocated

discount

Allocated

discount

Arrangement

consideration

allocation

Products (100

units)

CU950

100%

CU150

C800

Prepaid gift

card

CU200

—

CU200

CU1,1150

CU150

CU1,000

For components that must be recognised at fair value at inception, any

subsequent remeasurement would be pursuant to other IFRSs (e.g., IFRS 9).

That is, subsequent adjustments to the fair value of those components have

no effect on the amount of the transaction price previously allocated to any

performance obligations included within the contract or on revenue recognised.

265 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

7. Satisfaction of performance obligations

Under IFRS 15, an entity only recognises revenue when it satisfies an identified

performance obligation by transferring a promised good or service to a

customer. A good or service is considered to be transferred when the customer

obtains control.

IFRS 15 states that “control of an asset refers to the ability to direct the use of

and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from the asset”.

263

Control also means the ability to prevent others from directing the use of, and

receiving the benefit from, a good or service. The Board noted that both goods

and services are assets that a customer acquires (even if many services are not

recognised as an asset because those services are simultaneously received and

consumed by the customer).

264

The IASB explained the key terms in the definition

of control in the Basis for Conclusions, as follows:

265

• Ability — a customer must have the present right to direct the use of,

and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from, an asset for

an entity to recognise revenue. For example, in a contract that requires

a manufacturer to produce an asset for a customer, it might be clear that

the customer will ultimately have the right to direct the use of, and obtain

substantially all of the remaining benefits from, the asset. However, the

entity should not recognise revenue until the customer has actually

obtained that right (which, depending on the contract, may occur during

production or afterwards).

• Direct the use of — a customer’s ability to direct the use of an asset refers

to the customer’s right to deploy or to allow another entity to deploy that

asset in its activities or to restrict another entity from deploying that asset.

• Obtain the benefits from — the customer must have the ability to obtain

substantially all of the remaining benefits from an asset for the customer

to obtain control of it. Conceptually, the benefits from a good or service

are potential cash flows (either an increase in cash inflows or a decrease

in cash outflows). IFRS 15.33 indicates that a customer can obtain the

benefits directly or indirectly in many ways, such as: using the asset to

produce goods or services (including public services); using the asset to

enhance the value of other assets; using the asset to settle a liability or

reduce an expense; selling or exchanging the asset; pledging the asset to

secure a loan; or holding the asset.

Under IFRS 15, the transfer of control to the customer represents the transfer

of the rights with regard to the good or service. The customer’s ability to

receive the benefit from the good or service is represented by its right to

substantially all of the cash inflows, or the reduction of the cash outflows,

generated by the goods or services. Upon transfer of control, the customer

has sole possession of the right to use the good or service for the remainder

of its economic life or to consume the good or service in its own operations.

263

IFRS 15.33.

264

IFRS 15.BC118.

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IFRS 15.BC120.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 266

The IASB explained in the Basis for Conclusions that control should be assessed

primarily from the customer’s perspective. While a seller often surrenders

control at the same time the customer obtains control, the Board required the

assessment of control to be from the customer’s perspective to minimise the risk

of an entity recognising revenue from activities that do not coincide with the

transfer of goods or services to the customer.

266

The standard indicates that an entity must determine, at contract inception,

whether it will transfer control of a promised good or service over time. If an

entity does not satisfy a performance obligation over time, the performance

obligation is satisfied at a point in time.

267

These concepts are explored further

in the following sections.

7.1 Performance obligations satisfied over time (updated

September 2019)

Frequently, entities transfer the promised goods or services to the customer

over time. While the determination of whether goods or services are transferred

over time is straightforward in some contracts (e.g., many service contracts), it

is more difficult in other contracts.

IFRS 15.35 states that an entity transfers control of a good or service over time

if one of the following criteria is met:

• As the entity performs, the customer simultaneously receives and

consumes the benefits provided by the entity’s performance.

• The entity’s performance creates or enhances an asset (e.g., work in

progress) that the customer controls as the asset is created or enhanced.

• The entity’s performance does not create an asset with an alternative use

to the entity and the entity has an enforceable right to payment for

performance completed to date.

Examples of each of the criteria above are included in the following sections.

If an entity is unable to demonstrate that control transfers over time, the

presumption is that control transfers at a point in time (see section 7.2).

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IFRS 15.BC121.

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IFRS 15.32.

267 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The following flow chart illustrates how to evaluate whether control transfers

over time:

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

For each performance obligation identified in the contract, an entity is required

to consider at contract inception whether it satisfies the performance obligation

over time (i.e., whether it meets one of the three criteria for over-time

recognition) or at a point in time. This evaluation requires entities to perform

analyses that might differ from what they did under legacy IFRS. For example,

entities that enter into contracts to construct real estate for a customer no

longer need to determine whether the contract either meets the definition

of a construction contract (in order to apply IAS 11) or is for the provision of

services (under IAS 18) so as to recognise revenue over time. Instead, under

IFRS 15, an entity needs to determine whether its performance obligation is

satisfied over time by evaluating the three criteria for over-time recognition. If

an entity does not satisfy a performance obligation over time, the performance

obligation is satisfied at a point in time.

Does the customer

simultaneously receive and consume

the benefits provided by the entity’s

performance as the entity

performs (see section 7.1.1)?

Does the entity’s performance create or

enhance an asset that the customer

controls as the asset is created or

enhanced (see section 7.1.2)?

Does the entity’s performance create an

asset with no alternative use to the entity

AND the entity has enforceable right to

payment for performance

completed to date (see section 7.1.3)?

The entity transfers control of a good or

service at a point in time (and recognises

revenue at a point in time).

The entity transfers control of a

good or service over time (and

recognises revenue over time).

Yes

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 268

How we see it

Determining when performance obligations are satisfied requires judgement.

IFRS 15.119(a) requires an entity to disclose when it typically satisfies its

performance obligations (e.g., upon shipment, as services are delivered).

See section 10.5.1 for more information. IFRS 15.123(a) requires entities

to disclose significant judgements made in determining the timing of

satisfaction of performance obligations and IFRS 15.124 requires entities

to disclose the method used to recognise revenue (e.g., a description of

the input or output method used and how that method is applied) and why

the method selected provides a faithful depiction of the transfer of goods

or services. See section 10.5 for more information on these disclosure

requirements. Entities should review their disclosures to verify that they not

only meet the specific requirements of IFRS 15.119(a), 123(a) and 124, but

they also meet the overall disclosure objective in IFRS 15.110.

Frequently asked questions

Question 7-1: Can an entity that recognised revenue at a point in time under

legacy standards be required to recognise revenue over time under

IFRS 15? [FASB TRG meeting 7 November 2016 - Agenda paper no. 56]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that an entity that recognised revenue

at a point in time under legacy revenue standards needs to analyse each of its

contracts to determine whether it is required to recognise revenue over time

under the standard. That is, an entity that recognised revenue at a point in

time under legacy standards should not presume it recognises revenue at

a point in time under IFRS 15 and should assess the facts and circumstances

of each of its contracts based on the requirements of IFRS 15. An entity

recognises revenue at a point in time if it does not meet the over-time criteria

in the standard.

An example of a transaction in which an entity might have a change in

recognition timing is a contract manufacturer that produces goods designed

to a customer’s unique specifications and can reasonably conclude that

the goods do not have an alternative use. If the manufacturer also has

an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date, it would

meet the standard’s third criterion to recognise revenue over time, even

though it might have recognised revenue at a point in time under legacy IFRS

(e.g., based on the number of units produced or units delivered).

However, a reassessment of the timing and pattern of revenue recognition is

not limited to contracts that were recognised at a point in time under legacy

standards. Entities have to analyse each of their contracts to determine

the appropriate timing and pattern of recognition, considering the specific

criteria and requirements of the standard. In some instances, this could

result in a change in the timing and/or pattern of revenue recognition.

Question 7-2: Do all contracts with a stand-ready element include a single

performance obligation that is satisfied over time? [TRG meeting

9 November 2015 – Agenda paper no. 48]

See response to Question 4-3 in section 4.1.1

269 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

7.1.1 Customer simultaneously receives and consumes benefits as the entity

performs (updated September 2019)

As the Board explained in the Basis for Conclusions, in many service contracts

the entity’s performance creates an asset, momentarily, because that asset

is simultaneously received and consumed by the customer. In these cases,

the customer obtains control of the entity’s output as the entity performs.

Therefore, the performance obligation is satisfied over time.

268

While this

criterion most often applies to service contracts, the TRG discussed instances

in which commodity contracts (e.g., electricity, natural gas, heating oil)

could be recognised over time. These situations could arise if the facts and

circumstances of the contract indicate that the customer will simultaneously

receive and consume the benefits (e.g., a continuous supply contract to meet

immediate demands).

269

Refer to Question 7-3 for further information.

There may be contracts in which it is unclear whether the customer

simultaneously receives and consumes the benefit of the entity’s performance

over time. To assist entities, IFRS 15 provides the following application

guidance:

Extract from IFRS 15

B3. For some types of performance obligations, the assessment of whether

a customer receives the benefits of an entity’s performance as the entity

performs and simultaneously consumes those benefits as they are received

will be straightforward. Examples include routine or recurring services (such

as a cleaning service) in which the receipt and simultaneous consumption by

the customer of the benefits of the entity’s performance can be readily

identified.

B4. For other types of performance obligations, an entity may not be able to

readily identify whether a customer simultaneously receives and consumes

the benefits from the entity’s performance as the entity performs. In those

circumstances, a performance obligation is satisfied over time if an entity

determines that another entity would not need to substantially re-perform

the work that the entity has completed to date if that other entity were to

fulfil the remaining performance obligation to the customer. In determining

whether another entity would not need to substantially re-perform the work

the entity has completed to date, an entity shall make both of the following

assumptions:

(a) disregard potential contractual restrictions or practical limitations that

otherwise would prevent the entity from transferring the remaining

performance obligation to another entity; and

(b) presume that another entity fulfilling the remainder of the performance

obligation would not have the benefit of any asset that is presently

controlled by the entity and that would remain controlled by the entity

if the performance obligation were to transfer to another entity.

The IASB added this application guidance because the notion of ‘benefit’ can

be subjective. As discussed in the Basis for Conclusions, the Board provided

an example of a freight logistics contract. Assume that the entity has agreed

to transport goods from Vancouver to New York City. Some stakeholders had

suggested that the customer receives no benefit from the entity’s performance

until the goods are delivered to, in this case, New York City. However, the Board

268

IFRS 15.BC125.

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TRG Agenda paper no. 43, Determining When Control of a Commodity Transfers, dated

13 July 2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 270

said that the customer benefits as the entity performs. This is because, if the

goods were only delivered part of the way (e.g., to Chicago), another entity

would not need to substantially re-perform the entity’s performance to date.

The Board observed that in these cases, the assessment of whether another

entity would need to substantially re-perform the entity’s performance to date

is an objective way to assess whether the customer receives benefit from the

entity’s performance as it occurs.

270

In assessing whether a customer simultaneously receives and consumes

the benefits provided by an entity’s performance, all relevant facts and

circumstances need to be considered. This includes considering the inherent

characteristics of the good or service, the contract terms and information

about how the good or service is transferred or delivered. However, as noted

in IFRS 15.B4(a), an entity disregards any contractual or practical restrictions

when it assesses this criterion. In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB explained

that the assessment of whether control of the goods or services has transferred

to the customer is performed by making a hypothetical assessment of

what another entity would need to do if it were to take over the remaining

performance. Therefore, actual practical or contractual restrictions would have

no bearing on the assessment of whether the entity had already transferred

control of the goods or services provided to date.

271

The standard provides the following example that illustrates a customer

simultaneously receiving and consuming the benefits as the entity performs

in relation to a series of distinct payroll processing services:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 13 — Customer simultaneously receives and consumes the

benefits (IFRS 15.IE67-IE68)

An entity enters into a contract to provide monthly payroll processing

services to a customer for one year.

The promised payroll processing services are accounted for as a single

performance obligation in accordance with paragraph 22(b) of IFRS 15.

The performance obligation is satisfied over time in accordance with

paragraph 35(a) of IFRS 15 because the customer simultaneously receives

and consumes the benefits of the entity’s performance in processing each

payroll transaction as and when each transaction is processed. The fact

that another entity would not need to re-perform payroll processing

services for the service that the entity has provided to date also

demonstrates that the customer simultaneously receives and consumes

the benefits of the entity’s performance as the entity performs. (The entity

disregards any practical limitations on transferring the remaining

performance obligation, including setup activities that would need to be

undertaken by another entity.) The entity recognises revenue over time by

measuring its progress towards complete satisfaction of that performance

obligation in accordance with paragraphs 39–45 and B14–B19 of IFRS 15.

The IASB clarified, in the Basis for Conclusions, that an entity does not evaluate

this criterion (to determine whether a performance obligation is satisfied over

time) if the entity’s performance creates an asset that the customer does not

consume immediately as the asset is received. The IFRS IC reiterated this point

at its meeting in March 2018, in relation to a contract for the sale of a real

estate unit (see Question 7-11 in section 7.1.3 for further discussion).

272

270

IFRS 15.BC126.

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IFRS 15.BC127.

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271 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Instead, an entity assesses that performance obligation using the criteria

discussed in sections 7.1.2 and 7.1.3.

For some service contracts, the entity’s performance will not satisfy its

obligation over time because the customer does not consume the benefit of the

entity’s performance until the entity’s performance is complete. The standard

provides an example (Example 14, extracted in full in section 7.1.3) of an entity

providing consulting services that will take the form of a professional opinion

upon the completion of the services. In this situation, an entity cannot conclude

that the services are transferred over time based on this criterion. Instead, the

entity must consider the remaining two criteria in IFRS 15.35 (see

sections 7.1.2 and 7.1.3 and Example 14 below).

Frequently asked questions

Question 7-3: What factors should an entity consider when evaluating

whether a customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits

of a commodity (e.g., electricity, natural gas or heating oil) as the entity

performs? [TRG meeting 13 July 2015 – Agenda paper no. 43]

TRG members generally agreed that an entity would consider all known facts

and circumstances when evaluating whether a customer simultaneously

receives and consumes the benefits of a commodity. These may include

the inherent characteristics of the commodity (e.g., whether the commodity

can be stored), contract terms (e.g., a continuous supply contract to meet

immediate demands) and information about infrastructure or other delivery

mechanisms.

As such, revenue related to the sale of a commodity may or may not be

recognised over time, depending on whether the facts and circumstances

of the contract indicate that the customer simultaneously receives and

consume the benefits. This evaluation may require the use of significant

judgement.

Whether a commodity meets this criterion and is transferred over time is

important in determining whether the sale of a commodity meets the criteria

to apply the series requirement (see section 4.2.2 above). This, in turn,

affects how an entity allocates variable consideration and apply the

requirements for contract modifications and changes in the transaction price.

7.1.2 Customer controls the asset as it is created or enhanced (updated

September 2019)

The second criterion to determine whether control of a good or service is

transferred over time requires entities to evaluate whether the customer

controls the asset as it is being created or enhanced. For the purpose of this

determination, the definition of ‘control’ is the same as previously discussed

(i.e., the ability to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of the remaining

benefits from the asset). The IASB explained in the Basis for Conclusions that

this criterion addresses situations in which the customer clearly controls any

work in progress arising from the entity’s performance. The Board provided an

example in which the entity has entered into a construction contract to build on

the customer’s land, stating that any work in progress arising from the entity’s

performance is generally controlled by the customer.

273

IFRS IC also reiterated

the overall intent of the criterion and referred to this example from the Basis for

Conclusions during its March 2018 meeting (see Question 7-11 in

section 7.1.3).

274

In addition, some construction contracts may also contain

273

IFRS 15.BC129.

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Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 272

clauses indicating that the customer owns any work in progress as the

contracted item is being built. Furthermore, the asset being created or

enhanced can be either tangible or intangible.

How we see it

The Board observed in the Basis for Conclusions that the second over-time

criterion (related to the customer’s control of the asset as it is being

created or enhanced) is consistent with the rationale for the percentage-of-

completion revenue recognition approach for construction contracts under

legacy US GAAP.

275

Both approaches acknowledge that, in effect, the entity

has agreed to sell its rights to the asset (i.e., work in progress) as the entity

performs (i.e., a continuous sale).

Frequently asked questions

Question 7-4: How should an entity evaluate a customer’s right to sell (or

pledge) a right to obtain an asset when determining whether the customer

controls the asset as it is created or enhanced under IFRS 15.35(b)?

We believe that an entity needs to assess control of the asset that the entity’s

performance creates or enhances, rather than any contractual rights to obtain

the completed asset in the future. For example, and as discussed by the IFRS IC

(see Question 7-11 in section 7.1.3), in a contract for the sale of real estate

that the entity constructs, the asset created is the real estate itself and not the

customer’s right to obtain the completed real estate in the future. That is,

an entity would evaluate whether the customer controls the partially

constructed real estate as it is being constructed to determine whether

criterion IFRS 15.35(b) is met. The customer’s right to sell (or pledge) a right to

obtain a completed asset in the future is not evidence that the customer

controls the asset itself as it is being created or enhanced.

276

7.1.3 Asset with no alternative use and right to payment (updated September

2019)

In some cases, it may be unclear whether the asset that an entity creates or

enhances is controlled by the customer when considering the first two criteria

(discussed in sections 7.1.1 and 7.1.2 above) for evaluating whether control

transfers over time. Therefore, the Board added a third criterion, which requires

revenue to be recognised over time if both of the following two requirements

are met:

•

The entity’s performance does not create an asset with alternative use to

the entity.

• The entity has an enforceable right to payment for performance completed

to date.

Each of these concepts is discussed further below.

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273 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

No alternative use

The IASB explained in the Basis for Conclusions that it had developed the notion

of ‘alternative use’ to prevent over time revenue recognition when the entity’s

performance does not transfer control of the goods or services to the customer

over time. When the entity’s performance creates an asset with an alternative

use to the entity (e.g., standard inventory items), the entity can readily direct

the asset to another customer. In those cases, the entity (not the customer)

controls the asset as it is created because the customer does not have the

ability to direct the use of the asset or restrict the entity from directing that

asset to another customer. The standard includes the following requirements

for ’alternative use’:

Extract from IFRS 15

36. An asset created by an entity’s performance does not have an alternative

use to an entity if the entity is either restricted contractually from readily

directing the asset for another use during the creation or enhancement

of that asset or limited practically from readily directing the asset in its

completed state for another use. The assessment of whether an asset has

an alternative use to the entity is made at contract inception. After contract

inception, an entity shall not update the assessment of the alternative use of

an asset unless the parties to the contract approve a contract modification

that substantively changes the performance obligation. Paragraphs B6–B8

provide guidance for assessing whether an asset has an alternative use to

an entity.

…

B6. In assessing whether an asset has an alternative use to an entity in

accordance with paragraph 36, an entity shall consider the effects of

contractual restrictions and practical limitations on the entity’s ability to

readily direct that asset for another use, such as selling it to a different

customer. The possibility of the contract with the customer being terminated

is not a relevant consideration in assessing whether the entity would be

able to readily direct the asset for another use.

B7. A contractual restriction on an entity’s ability to direct an asset for

another use must be substantive for the asset not to have an alternative

use to the entity. A contractual restriction is substantive if a customer could

enforce its rights to the promised asset if the entity sought to direct the asset

for another use. In contrast, a contractual restriction is not substantive if, for

example, an asset is largely interchangeable with other assets that the entity

could transfer to another customer without breaching the contract and

without incurring significant costs that otherwise would not have been

incurred in relation to that contract.

B8. A practical limitation on an entity’s ability to direct an asset for another

use exists if an entity would incur significant economic losses to direct the

asset for another use. A significant economic loss could arise because the

entity either would incur significant costs to rework the asset or would only

be able to sell the asset at a significant loss. For example, an entity may

be practically limited from redirecting assets that either have design

specifications that are unique to a customer or are located in remote areas.

In making the assessment of whether a good or service has alternative use,

an entity must consider any substantive contractual restrictions. A contractual

restriction is substantive if a customer could enforce its rights to the promised

asset if the entity sought to direct the asset for another use. Contractual

restrictions that are not substantive, such as protective rights for the customer,

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 274

are not considered. The Board explained in the Basis for Conclusions that

a protective right typically gives an entity the practical ability to physically

substitute or redirect the asset without the customer’s knowledge or objection

to the change. For example, a contract may specify that an entity cannot

transfer a good to another customer because the customer has legal title to

the good. Such a contractual term would not be substantive if the entity could

physically substitute that good for another and could redirect the original good

to another customer for little cost. In that case, the contractual restriction

would merely be a protective right and would not indicate that control of

the asset has transferred to the customer.

277

An entity also needs to consider any practical limitations on directing the

asset for another use. In making this determination, the Board clarified that

an entity considers the characteristics of the asset that ultimately will be

transferred to the customer and assesses whether the asset in its completed

state could be redirected without a significant cost of rework. The Board

provided an example of manufacturing contracts in which the basic design of

the asset is the same across all contracts, but substantial customisation is made

to the asset. As a result, redirecting the finished asset would require significant

rework and the asset would not have an alternative use because the entity

would incur significant economic losses to direct the asset for another use.

278

Considering the level of customisation of an asset may help entities assess

whether an asset has an alternative use. The IASB noted in the Basis for

Conclusions that, when an entity is creating an asset that is highly customised

for a particular customer, it is less likely that the entity could use that asset

for any other purpose.

279

That is, it is likely that the entity would need to incur

significant rework costs to redirect the asset to another customer or sell the

asset at a significantly reduced price. As a result, the asset would not have an

alternative use to the entity and the customer could be regarded as receiving

the benefit of the entity’s performance as the entity performs (i.e., having

control of the asset), provided that the entity also has an enforceable right

to payment (discussed below). However, the Board clarified that the level of

customisation is a factor to consider, but it should not be a determinative

factor. For example, in some real estate contracts, the asset may be

standardised (i.e., not highly customised), but it still may not have an alternative

use to the entity because of substantive contractual restrictions that preclude

the entity from readily directing the asset to another customer.

280

277

IFRS 15.BC138.

278

IFRS 15.BC138.

279

IFRS 15.BC135.

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The standard provides the following example to illustrate an evaluation of

practical limitations on directing an asset for another use:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 15 — Asset has no alternative use to the entity

(IFRS 15.IE73-IE76)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer, a government agency, to

build a specialised satellite. The entity builds satellites for various customers,

such as governments and commercial entities. The design and construction

of each satellite differ substantially, on the basis of each customer's needs

and the type of technology that is incorporated into the satellite.

At contract inception, the entity assesses whether its performance obligation

to build the satellite is a performance obligation satisfied over time in

accordance with paragraph 35 of IFRS 15.

As part of that assessment, the entity considers whether the satellite in

its completed state will have an alternative use to the entity. Although the

contract does not preclude the entity from directing the completed satellite

to another customer, the entity would incur significant costs to rework

the design and function of the satellite to direct that asset to another

customer. Consequently, the asset has no alternative use to the entity

(see paragraphs 35(c), 36 and B6–B8 of IFRS 15) because the customer-

specific design of the satellite limits the entity's practical ability to readily

direct the satellite to another customer.

For the entity's performance obligation to be satisfied over time when

building the satellite, paragraph 35(c) of IFRS 15 also requires the entity

to have an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date.

This condition is not illustrated in this example.

Requiring an entity to assess contractual restrictions when evaluating this

criterion may seem to contradict the requirements in IFRS 15.B4 to ignore

contractual and practical restrictions when evaluating whether another entity

would need to substantially reperform the work the entity has completed to

date (see section 7.1.1). The Board explained that this difference is appropriate

because each criterion provides a different method for assessing when control

transfers and the criteria were designed to apply to different situations.

281

After contract inception, an entity does not update its assessment of whether

an asset has an alternative use for any subsequent changes in facts and

circumstances, unless the parties approve a contract modification that

substantively changes the performance obligation. The IASB also decided

that an entity’s lack of an alternative use for an asset does not, by itself, mean

that the customer effectively controls the asset. The entity would also need to

determine that it has an enforceable right to payment for performance to date,

as discussed below.

282

281

IFRS 15.BC139.

282

IFRS 15.BC141.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 276

Enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date

To evaluate whether it has an enforceable right to payment for performance

completed to date, the entity is required to consider the terms of the contract

and any laws or regulations that relate to it. The standard states that the right

to payment for performance completed to date need not be for a fixed amount.

However, at any time during the contract term, an entity must be entitled to

an amount that at least compensates the entity for performance completed

to date (as defined in IFRS 15.B9, see extract below), even if the contract

is terminated by the customer (or another party) for reasons other than

the entity’s failure to perform as promised.

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The IASB concluded that

a customer’s obligation to pay for the entity’s performance is an indicator

that the customer has obtained benefit from the entity’s performance.

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The standard states the following about an entity’s right to payment for

performance completed to date:

Extract from IFRS 15

B9. In accordance with paragraph 37, an entity has a right to payment for

performance completed to date if the entity would be entitled to an amount

that at least compensates the entity for its performance completed to date

in the event that the customer or another party terminates the contract for

reasons other than the entity’s failure to perform as promised. An amount

that would compensate an entity for performance completed to date would

be an amount that approximates the selling price of the goods or services

transferred to date (for example, recovery of the costs incurred by an entity

in satisfying the performance obligation plus a reasonable profit margin)

rather than compensation for only the entity’s potential loss of profit if the

contract were to be terminated. Compensation for a reasonable profit margin

need not equal the profit margin expected if the contract was fulfilled as

promised, but an entity should be entitled to compensation for either of

the following amounts:

(a) a proportion of the expected profit margin in the contract that reasonably

reflects the extent of the entity’s performance under the contract before

termination by the customer (or another party); or

(b) a reasonable return on the entity’s cost of capital for similar contracts (or

the entity’s typical operating margin for similar contracts) if the contract-

specific margin is higher than the return the entity usually generates

from similar contracts.

B10. An entity’s right to payment for performance completed to date need

not be a present unconditional right to payment. In many cases, an entity will

have an unconditional right to payment only at an agreed-upon milestone

or upon complete satisfaction of the performance obligation. In assessing

whether it has a right to payment for performance completed to date, an

entity shall consider whether it would have an enforceable right to demand

or retain payment for performance completed to date if the contract were to

be terminated before completion for reasons other than the entity’s failure to

perform as promised.

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277 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

B11. In some contracts, a customer may have a right to terminate the

contract only at specified times during the life of the contract or the customer

might not have any right to terminate the contract. If a customer acts to

terminate a contract without having the right to terminate the contract at

that time (including when a customer fails to perform its obligations as

promised), the contract (or other laws) might entitle the entity to continue

to transfer to the customer the goods or services promised in the contract

and require the customer to pay the consideration promised in exchange

for those goods or services. In those circumstances, an entity has a right to

payment for performance completed to date because the entity has a right

to continue to perform its obligations in accordance with the contract and to

require the customer to perform its obligations (which include paying the

promised consideration).

B12. In assessing the existence and enforceability of a right to payment for

performance completed to date, an entity shall consider the contractual

terms as well as any legislation or legal precedent that could supplement

or override those contractual terms. This would include an assessment of

whether:

(a) legislation, administrative practice or legal precedent confers upon the

entity a right to payment for performance to date even though that right

is not specified in the contract with the customer;

(b) relevant legal precedent indicates that similar rights to payment for

performance completed to date in similar contracts have no binding

legal effect; or

right to payment has resulted in the right being rendered unenforceable

in that legal environment. However, notwithstanding that an entity may

choose to waive its right to payment in similar contracts, an entity would

continue to have a right to payment to date if, in the contract with the

customer, its right to payment for performance to date remains

enforceable.

The IASB described in the Basis for Conclusions how the factors of ‘no

alternative use’ and the ‘right to payment’ relate to the assessment of control.

Since an entity is constructing an asset with no alternative use to the entity,

the entity is effectively creating an asset at the direction of the customer. That

asset would have little or no value to the entity if the customer were to terminate

the contract. As a result, the entity will seek economic protection from the risk

of customer termination by requiring the customer to pay for the entity’s

performance to date in the event of customer termination. The customer’s

obligation to pay for the entity’s performance to date (or, the inability to avoid

paying for that performance) suggests that the customer has obtained the

benefits from the entity’s performance.

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The enforceable right to payment criterion has two components that an entity

must assess:

• The amount that the customer would be required to pay

And

• What it means to have the enforceable right to payment

The Board provided additional application guidance on how to evaluate each of

these components.

Firstly, the Board explained in the Basis for Conclusions that the focus of the

analysis should be on the amount to which the entity would be entitled upon

termination.

286

This amount is not the amount the entity would settle for in a

negotiation and it does not need to reflect the full contract margin that the entity

would earn if the contract were completed. The Board clarified in IFRS 15.B9

that a 'reasonable profit margin’ would either be a proportion of the entity’s

expected profit margin that reasonably reflects the entity’s performance to date

or a reasonable return on the entity’s cost of capital. In addition, the standard

clarifies, in IFRS 15.B13, that including a payment schedule in a contract

does not, in and of itself, indicate that the entity has the right to payment for

performance completed to date. This is because, in some cases, the contract

may specify that the consideration received from the customer is refundable for

reasons other than the entity failing to perform as promised in the contract. The

entity must examine information that may contradict the payment schedule and

may represent the entity’s actual right to payment for performance completed

to date. As highlighted in Example 16 below, payments from a customer must

approximate the selling price of the goods or services transferred to date to

be considered a right to payment for performance to date. A fixed payment

schedule may not meet this requirement.

Secondly, the IASB added application guidance in IFRS 15.B12 to help an entity

assess the existence and enforceability of a right to payment. In making this

assessment, entities need to consider any laws, legislation or legal precedent

that could supplement or override the contractual terms. Furthermore, the

standard indicates that an entity may have an enforceable right to payment

even when the customer terminates the contract without having the right to

terminate. This would be the case if the contract (or other law) entitles the entity

to continue to transfer the goods or services promised in the contract and require

the customer to pay the consideration promised for those goods or services (often

referred to as ‘specific performance’).

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The standard also states that even

when an entity chooses to waive its right to payment in other similar contracts,

an entity would continue to have a right to payment for the contract if, in the

contract, its right to payment for performance to date remains enforceable.

286

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The standard provides the following example to illustrate the concepts described

in section 7.1.3. Example 14 depicts an entity providing consulting services that

will take the form of a professional opinion upon the completion of the services. In

this example, the entity’s performance obligation meets the no alternative use and

right to payment criterion of IFRS 15.35(c), as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 14 — Assessing alternative use and right to payment

(IFRS 15.IE69-IE72)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to provide a consulting

service that results in the entity providing a professional opinion to the

customer. The professional opinion relates to facts and circumstances that

are specific to the customer. If the customer were to terminate the consulting

contract for reasons other than the entity’s failure to perform as promised,

the contract requires the customer to compensate the entity for its costs

incurred plus a 15 per cent margin. The 15 per cent margin approximates

the profit margin that the entity earns from similar contracts.

The entity considers the criterion in paragraph 35(a) of IFRS 15 and the

requirements in paragraphs B3 and B4 of IFRS 15 to determine whether the

customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits of the entity’s

performance. If the entity were to be unable to satisfy its obligation and the

customer hired another consulting firm to provide the opinion, the other

consulting firm would need to substantially re-perform the work that the

entity had completed to date, because the other consulting firm would not

have the benefit of any work in progress performed by the entity. The nature

of the professional opinion is such that the customer will receive the benefits

of the entity’s performance only when the customer receives the professional

opinion. Consequently, the entity concludes that the criterion in

paragraph 35(a) of IFRS 15 is not met.

However, the entity’s performance obligation meets the criterion in

paragraph 35(c) of IFRS 15 and is a performance obligation satisfied over

time because of both of the following factors:

(a) in accordance with paragraphs 36 and B6–B8 of IFRS 15, the

development of the professional opinion does not create an asset with

alternative use to the entity because the professional opinion relates to

facts and circumstances that are specific to the customer. Therefore,

there is a practical limitation on the entity’s ability to readily direct the

asset to another customer.

(b) in accordance with paragraphs 37 and B9–B13 of IFRS 15, the entity has

an enforceable right to payment for its performance completed to date

for its costs plus a reasonable margin, which approximates the profit

margin in other contracts.

Consequently, the entity recognises revenue over time by measuring the

progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation in

accordance with paragraphs 39–45 and B14–B19 of IFRS 15.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 280

Example 16 illustrates a contract in which the fixed payment schedule is not

expected to correspond, at all times throughout the contract, to the amount

that would be necessary to compensate the entity for performance completed

to date. Accordingly, the entity concludes that it does not have an enforceable

right to payment for performance completed to date as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 16 — Enforceable right to payment for performance completed to

date (IFRS 15.IE77-IE80)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to build an item of

equipment. The payment schedule in the contract specifies that the customer

must make an advance payment at contract inception of 10 per cent of

the contract price, regular payments throughout the construction period

(amounting to 50 per cent of the contract price) and a final payment of

40 per cent of the contract price after construction is completed and the

equipment has passed the prescribed performance tests. The payments are

non-refundable unless the entity fails to perform as promised. If the customer

terminates the contract, the entity is entitled only to retain any progress

payments received from the customer. The entity has no further rights to

compensation from the customer.

At contract inception, the entity assesses whether its performance obligation

to build the equipment is a performance obligation satisfied over time in

accordance with paragraph 35 of IFRS 15.

As part of that assessment, the entity considers whether it has an

enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date in

accordance with paragraphs 35(c), 37 and B9–B13 of IFRS 15 if the customer

were to terminate the contract for reasons other than the entity's failure to

perform as promised. Even though the payments made by the customer are

non-refundable, the cumulative amount of those payments is not expected, at

all times throughout the contract, to at least correspond to the amount that

would be necessary to compensate the entity for performance completed to

date. This is because at various times during construction the cumulative

amount of consideration paid by the customer might be less than the selling

price of the partially completed item of equipment at that time. Consequently,

the entity does not have a right to payment for performance completed to

date.

Because the entity does not have a right to payment for performance

completed to date, the entity's performance obligation is not satisfied over

time in accordance with paragraph 35(c) of IFRS 15. Accordingly, the entity

does not need to assess whether the equipment would have an alternative

use to the entity. The entity also concludes that it does not meet the criteria

in paragraph 35(a) or (b) of IFRS 15 and thus, the entity accounts for the

construction of the equipment as a performance obligation satisfied at a point

in time in accordance with paragraph 38 of IFRS 15.

281 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Example 17 contrasts similar situations and illustrates when revenue would

be recognised over time (see section 7.1) versus at a point in time (see

section 7.2). Specifically, this example illustrates the evaluation of the ‘no

alternative use’ and ‘right to payment for performance to date’ concepts, as

follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 17 — Assessing whether a performance obligation is satisfied at

a point in time or over time (IFRS 15.IE81-IE90)

An entity is developing a multi-unit residential complex. A customer enters

into a binding sales contract with the entity for a specified unit that is under

construction. Each unit has a similar floor plan and is of a similar size, but

other attributes of the units are different (for example, the location of the

unit within the complex).

Case A—Entity does not have an enforceable right to payment for

performance completed to date

The customer pays a deposit upon entering into the contract and the deposit

is refundable only if the entity fails to complete construction of the unit in

accordance with the contract. The remainder of the contract price is payable

on completion of the contract when the customer obtains physical possession

of the unit. If the customer defaults on the contract before completion of

the unit, the entity only has the right to retain the deposit.

At contract inception, the entity applies paragraph 35(c) of IFRS 15

to determine whether its promise to construct and transfer the unit to

the customer is a performance obligation satisfied over time. The entity

determines that it does not have an enforceable right to payment for

performance completed to date because, until construction of the unit is

complete, the entity only has a right to the deposit paid by the customer.

Because the entity does not have a right to payment for work completed to

date, the entity’s performance obligation is not a performance obligation

satisfied over time in accordance with paragraph 35(c) of IFRS 15. Instead,

the entity accounts for the sale of the unit as a performance obligation

satisfied at a point in time in accordance with paragraph 38 of IFRS 15.

Case B—Entity has an enforceable right to payment for performance

completed to date

The customer pays a non-refundable deposit upon entering into the contract

and will make progress payments during construction of the unit. The

contract has substantive terms that preclude the entity from being able

to direct the unit to another customer. In addition, the customer does not

have the right to terminate the contract unless the entity fails to perform

as promised. If the customer defaults on its obligations by failing to make

the promised progress payments as and when they are due, the entity

would have a right to all of the consideration promised in the contract if it

completes the construction of the unit. The courts have previously upheld

similar rights that entitle developers to require the customer to perform,

subject to the entity meeting its obligations under the contract.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 282

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

At contract inception, the entity applies paragraph 35(c) of IFRS 15 to

determine whether its promise to construct and transfer the unit to the

customer is a performance obligation satisfied over time. The entity

determines that the asset (unit) created by the entity’s performance does

not have an alternative use to the entity because the contract precludes

the entity from transferring the specified unit to another customer. The

entity does not consider the possibility of a contract termination in assessing

whether the entity is able to direct the asset to another customer.

The entity also has a right to payment for performance completed to date

in accordance with paragraphs 37 and B9–B13 of IFRS 15. This is because

if the customer were to default on its obligations, the entity would have an

enforceable right to all of the consideration promised under the contract if

it continues to perform as promised.

Therefore, the terms of the contract and the practices in the legal jurisdiction

indicate that there is a right to payment for performance completed to date.

Consequently, the criteria in paragraph 35(c) of IFRS 15 are met and the

entity has a performance obligation that it satisfies over time. To recognise

revenue for that performance obligation satisfied over time, the entity

measures its progress towards complete satisfaction of its performance

obligation in accordance with paragraphs 39–45 and B14–B19 of IFRS 15.

In the construction of a multi-unit residential complex, the entity may have

many contracts with individual customers for the construction of individual

units within the complex. The entity would account for each contract

separately. However, depending on the nature of the construction, the

entity’s performance in undertaking the initial construction works (ie the

foundation and the basic structure), as well as the construction of common

areas, may need to be reflected when measuring its progress towards

complete satisfaction of its performance obligations in each contract.

Case C—Entity has an enforceable right to payment for performance

completed to date

The same facts as in Case B apply to Case C, except that in the event of

a default by the customer, either the entity can require the customer to

perform as required under the contract or the entity can cancel the contract

in exchange for the asset under construction and an entitlement to a penalty

of a proportion of the contract price.

Notwithstanding that the entity could cancel the contract (in which case

the customer’s obligation to the entity would be limited to transferring

control of the partially completed asset to the entity and paying the

penalty prescribed), the entity has a right to payment for performance

completed to date because the entity could also choose to enforce its

rights to full payment under the contract. The fact that the entity may

choose to cancel the contract in the event the customer defaults on its

obligations would not affect that assessment (see paragraph B11 of

IFRS 15), provided that the entity’s rights to require the customer to

continue to perform as required under the contract (ie pay the promised

consideration) are enforceable.

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Frequently asked questions

Question 7-5: Should an entity consider the completed asset or the work in

progress when assessing whether its performance creates an asset with no

alternative use under IFRS 15.35(c)? [FASB TRG meeting 7 November 2016

- Agenda paper no. 56]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that when an entity evaluates whether

its performance creates an asset with no alternative use, it should consider

whether it could sell the completed asset to another customer without

incurring a significant economic loss (i.e., whether it could sell the raw

materials or work in progress to another customer is not relevant). This

conclusion is supported by the Board’s comment in the Basis for Conclusions

“that an entity should consider the characteristics of the asset that will

ultimately be transferred to the customer”.

288

However, as discussed above in section 7.1.3 and in accordance with

IFRS 15.36, if the entity is contractually restricted or has a practical limitation

on its ability to direct the asset for another use, the asset would not have

an alternative use, regardless of the characteristics of the completed asset.

A contractual restriction is substantive if a customer could enforce its rights

to the promised asset if the entity sought to direct the asset for another use.

A practical limitation exists if an entity would incur a significant economic loss

to direct the asset for another use.

The FASB TRG agenda paper included the following example:

Example of no alternative use

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to build customised

equipment. The customisation of the equipment occurs when the

manufacturing process is approximately 75% complete. That is, for

approximately the first 75% of the manufacturing process, the in-process

asset could be redirected to fulfil another customer’s equipment order

(assuming no contractual restrictions). However, the equipment cannot

be sold in its completed state to another customer without incurring

a significant economic loss. The design specifications of the equipment

are unique to the customer and the entity would only be able to sell the

completed equipment at a significant economic loss.

The entity would evaluate, at contract inception, whether there is any

contractual restriction or practical limitation on its ability to readily direct

the asset (in its completed state) for another use. Because the entity

cannot sell the completed equipment to another customer without

incurring a significant economic loss, the entity has a practical limitation

on its ability to direct the equipment in its completed state and, therefore,

the asset does not have an alternative use. However, before concluding

that revenue should be recognised over time, an entity must evaluate

whether it has an enforceable right to payment.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 7-6: How should an entity determine whether it has an enforceable

right to payment under IFRS 15.35(c)? [FASB TRG meeting 7 November

2016 - Agenda paper no. 56]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that entities need to evaluate

the contractual provisions to determine whether the right to payment

compensates the entity for performance completed to date. For example,

a contract may not explicitly provide an entity with an enforceable right to

payment for anything other than finished goods. However, if the termination

provisions in the contract allow for a notice period (e.g., 60 days) that would

provide sufficient time for an entity to move all work in progress to the

finished goods stage, it is likely that an entity would conclude that the

contract provides for an enforceable right to payment for performance

completed to date. In addition, an entity should consider any legislation or

legal precedent that could supplement or override any contractual terms.

The FASB TRG also discussed the linkage amongst right to payment, measure

of progress and the timing of the customisation of a good. For example,

the FASB TRG noted an entity may not always have an enforceable right to

payment at contract inception, such as when an entity is producing standard

goods (i.e., inventory) that may be customised for a customer towards the

end of the production process. FASB TRG members generally agreed that an

entity would need to consider whether it has an enforceable right to payment

related to its performance completed to date. If the entity’s performance

obligation is to customise its standard goods for a customer, FASB TRG

members generally agreed that an entity would evaluate whether it has an

enforceable right to payment at the point that the entity begins to satisfy

the performance obligation to customise the goods for the customer. That

is, because the right to payment is for performance completed to date, an

entity’s performance should coincide with how it defines the nature of its

performance obligation and its measure of progress toward satisfaction of

that performance obligation.

Question 7-7: In order to have an enforceable right to payment for

performance completed to date, does an entity need to have a present

unconditional right to payment?

No. In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB clarified that the contractual

payment terms in a contract may not always align with an entity’s enforceable

rights to payment for performance completed to date. As a result, an entity

does not need to have a present unconditional right to payment. Instead,

it must have an enforceable right to demand and/or retain payment for

performance completed to date upon customer termination without cause.

To illustrate this point, the Board included an example of a consulting contract

that requires an entity to provide a report at the end of the project. In return,

the entity earns a fixed amount, which is due and payable to the entity when

it delivers the report. Assume that the entity is performing under the contract

and that the contract (or the law) requires the customer to compensate the

entity for its performance completed to date. In that situation, the entity

would have an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to

date, even though an unconditional right to the fixed amount only exists at

the time the report is provided to the customer. This is because the entity has

a right to demand and retain payment for performance completed to date.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 7-8: Does an entity have a right to payment for performance

completed to date if the entity receives a non-refundable upfront payment

that represents the full transaction price?

Yes. The Board explained in the Basis for Conclusions that such a payment

would represent an entity’s right to payment for performance completed to

date provided that the entity’s right to retain and not refund the payment is

enforceable upon termination by the customer. This is because a full upfront

payment would at least compensate an entity for the work completed to date

throughout the contract.

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If the non-refundable upfront payment does not

represent the full transaction price, an entity will have to apply judgement to

determine whether the upfront payment provides the entity with a right to

payment for performance completed to date in the event of a contract

termination.

Question 7-9: Can an entity conclude it has an enforceable right to payment

for performance completed to date when a contract is priced at a loss?

Yes, however, the specific facts and circumstances of the contract must be

considered. As discussed above, the standard states that, if a contract is

terminated for reasons other than the entity’s failure to perform as promised,

the entity must be entitled to an amount that at least compensates it for its

performance to date. Furthermore, IFRS 15.B9 states that “An amount that

would compensate an entity for performance completed to date would be

an amount that approximates the selling price of the goods or services

transferred to date (for example, recovery of the costs incurred by an entity

in satisfying the performance obligation plus a reasonable profit margin).”

Accordingly, stakeholders had asked whether an entity could have an

enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date if the

contract was priced at a loss.

We believe that the example in IFRS 15.B9 of cost recovery plus a reasonable

profit margin does not preclude an entity from having an enforceable right to

payment even if the contract is priced at a loss. Rather, we believe an entity

should evaluate whether it has an enforceable right to receive an amount

that approximates the selling price of the goods or services for performance

completed to date in the event the customer terminates the contract.

Consider the following example from the American Institute of Certified Public

Accountants (AICPA) Audit and Accounting Guide,

Revenue Recognition

291

Example of determination of enforceable right to payment for a

contract priced at a loss

Customer X requests bids for the design of a highly customised system. The

customer expects to award subsequent contracts for systems over the next

10 years to the entity that wins the design contract. Contractor A is aware

of the competition and knows that in order to win the design contract it

must bid the contract at a loss. That is, Contractor A is willing to bid the

design contract at a loss due to the significant value in future expected

orders.

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See AICPA guide, Revenue Recognition, Chapter 3, Aerospace and Defense Entities,

paragraphs 3.5.18 - 3.5.23.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of determination of enforceable right to payment for a

contract priced at a loss (cont’d)

Contractor A wins the contract with a value of CU100 and estimated costs

to complete of CU130. Contractor A has determined that the contract

contains a single performance obligation and that its performance does

not create an asset with an alternative use. The contract is non-cancellable,

however, the contract terms stipulate that if the customer terminates the

contract, Contractor A would be entitled to payment for work completed to

date. The payment amount would be equal to a proportional amount of the

price of the contract based upon the performance of work done to date.

For example, if at the termination date Contractor A was 50% complete

(i.e., incurred CU65 of costs), it would be entitled to a CU50 payment from

Customer X (i.e., 50% of CU100 contract value).

In this example, we believe Contractor A has an enforceable right to

payment for performance completed to date. This is in accordance

with paragraph IFRS 15.35(c) because Contractor A is entitled to an

amount that approximates the selling price of the good or service for

performance completed to date in the event the customer terminates

the contract.

Refer to section 9.2 regarding accounting for anticipated losses on

contracts.

Question 7-10: Can an entity have an enforceable right to payment for

performance completed to date if it is not entitled to a reasonable profit

margin on standard inventory materials that were purchased but not yet

used in completing the performance obligation?

Yes. Consider an example in which an entity agrees to construct a specialised

asset for a customer that has no alternative use to the entity. The

construction of this asset requires the use of standard inventory materials

that could be used interchangeably on other projects of the entity until they

are integrated into the production of the customer’s asset. The contract with

the customer entitles the entity to reimbursement of costs incurred plus a

reasonable profit margin if the contract is terminated. However, the contract

specifically excludes reimbursement of standard inventory purchases before

they are integrated into the customer’s asset. As previously discussed, the

standard states that, at any time during the contract, an entity must be

entitled to an amount that compensates the entity for performance completed

to date (as defined in IFRS 15.B9) if the contract is terminated for reasons

other than the entity’s failure to perform. However, in this example,

the standard inventory materials have not yet been used in fulfilling the

performance obligation, so the entity does not need to have an enforceable

right to payment in relation to these materials. The entity could also

repurpose the materials for use in other contracts with customers.

The entity will still need to evaluate whether it has an enforceable right to

payment for performance completed to date once the standard inventory

materials are used in fulfilling the performance obligation.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 7-11: What should an entity consider when assessing the over-time

criteria for the sale of a real estate unit?

The IFRS IC received three requests regarding the assessment of the over-

time criteria in relation to contracts for the sale of a real estate unit. At

its March 2018 meeting, the IFRS IC concluded that the principles and

requirements in IFRS 15 provide an adequate basis for an entity to determine

whether to recognise revenue over time, or at a point in time, including

whether it has an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to

date for a contract for the sale of a real estate unit. Consequently, the IFRS IC

decided not to add these matters to its agenda.

292

After considering these requests, the IFRS IC decided that the agenda

decisions should discuss the requirements of IFRS 15, as well as how the

requirements apply to the fact patterns within the requests. The agenda

decisions included the following reminders:

•

An entity accounts for contracts within the scope of IFRS 15 only when

all the criteria in IFRS 15.9 are met (which includes the collectability

criterion).

•

Before considering the over-time criteria, an entity is required to apply

IFRS 15.22–30 to identify whether each promise to transfer a good or

service to the customer is a performance obligation (see section 4.2 for

further discussion).

•

An entity assesses the over-time criteria in IFRS 15.35 at contract

inception. IFRS 15.35 specifies that an entity transfers control of a good

or service over time and, therefore, satisfies a performance obligation

and recognises revenue over time, if any of the three criteria is met. If

an entity does not satisfy a performance obligation over time, it satisfies

the performance obligation at a point in time.

The agenda decisions also noted the following in relation to the over-time

criteria.

Criterion (a)

According to IFRS 15.35(a), an entity recognises revenue over time if the

customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided by the

entity’s performance as the entity performs. This criterion is not applicable in

a contract for the sale of a real estate unit that the entity constructs because

the real estate unit created by the entity’s performance is not consumed

immediately.

Criterion (b)

IFRS 15.35(b) specifies that an entity recognises revenue over time if

the customer controls the asset that an entity’s performance creates or

enhances as the asset is created or enhanced. Control refers to the ability to

direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from,

the asset. The Board included this criterion to “address situations in which

an entity’s performance creates or enhances an asset that a customer clearly

controls as the asset is created or enhanced”.

293

Therefore, all relevant

292

IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

293

IFRS 15.BC129.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 288

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

facts and circumstances need to be considered by an entity when assessing

whether there is evidence that the customer

clearly

controls the asset that is

being created or enhanced (e.g., the part-constructed real estate unit) as it is

created or enhanced. None of the facts and circumstances is determinative.

The IFRS IC observed that “in a contract for the sale of real estate that

the entity constructs, the asset created is the real estate itself. It is not, for

example, the right to obtain the real estate in the future. The right to sell or

pledge a right to obtain real estate in the future is not evidence of control of

the real estate itself”.

294

That is, it is important to apply the requirements for

control to the asset that the entity’s performance creates or enhances (see

Question 7-4 in section 7.1.2).

Criterion (c)

The Board developed this third criterion because, in some cases, it may not

be clear whether the asset that is created or enhanced is controlled by the

customer. IFRS 15.35(c) requires an entity to determine whether: (a) the

asset created by an entity’s performance does not have an alternative use

to the entity; and (b) the entity has an enforceable right to payment for

performance completed to date. However, the underlying objective of this

criterion is still to determine whether the entity is transferring control of

goods or services to the customer as it is creating the asset for that customer.

The agenda decisions reiterate that:

•

The asset being created does not have an alternative use to the entity if

the entity is restricted contractually from readily directing the asset for

another use during the asset’s creation or if it is limited practically from

readily directing the asset in the completed state for another use.

295

•

The entity has an enforceable right to payment if it is entitled to an

amount that at least compensates it for performance completed to date

were the contract to be terminated by the customer for reasons other

than the entity’s failure to perform as promised.

296

The entity must

be entitled to this amount at all times throughout the duration of the

contract and this amount should at least approximate the selling price of

the goods or services transferred to date. That is, it is not meant to refer

to compensation for only the entity’s potential loss of profit were the

contract to be terminated. The IFRS IC observed that ”it is the payment

the entity is entitled to receive under the contract with the customer

relating to performance under that contract that is relevant in

determining whether the entity has an enforceable right to payment

for performance completed to date”. As discussed in Question 7-12

below, the IFRS IC also observed that an entity does not consider

consideration it might receive upon resale of the asset if the original

customer were to terminate the contract.

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In determining whether it has an enforceable right to payment, an entity

considers the contractual terms as well as any legislation or legal

precedent that could supplement or override those contractual terms.

While an entity does not need to undertake an exhaustive search for

evidence, it is not appropriate for an entity to ignore evidence of relevant

legal precedent that is available to it or to anticipate evidence that may

294

IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

295

IFRS 15.36; IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

296

IFRS 15.37; IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

297

IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

become available in the future. The IFRS IC also observed that “the

assessment … is focused on the existence of the right and its

enforceability. The likelihood that the entity would exercise the right

is not relevant to this assessment. Similarly, if a customer has the right

to terminate the contract, the likelihood that the customer would

terminate the contract is not relevant to this assessment”.

298

Question 7-12: Does an entity contemplate consideration it might receive

from the potential resale of the asset to determine whether an enforceable

right to payment for performance completed to date exists? (updated

September

2019)

No. We believe that only the payment the entity is entitled to receive relating

to performance under the current customer contract is relevant in

determining whether the entity has an enforceable right to payment for

performance completed to date. For example, and as discussed by the IFRS IC

(as discussed in Question 7-11 above), an entity would not look to potential

consideration it might receive upon resale of the asset if the original customer

were to terminate the contract. This is because the resale of an asset typically

represents a separate contract with a different customer and, therefore, is

not relevant to determining the existence and enforceability of a right to

payment with the existing customer.

Consider the following example discussed by the IFRS IC:

299

Example of determining whether an enforceable right to payment

exists when cancellation by a customer obliges an entity to resell the

asset

Entity X, a construction company, enters into a contract with a customer to

sell a real estate unit in a residential multi-unit complex before the entity

constructs the unit. The entity determines that it has a single performance

obligation to construct and deliver the real estate unit. The customer pays

10% of the purchase price at contract inception and the remainder after

construction is complete. The entity retains legal title to the real estate unit

(and any land attributed to it) until the customer has paid the purchase

price after construction is complete.

Under the contract, the customer has the right to cancel the contract at

any time before construction is complete. However, if it does, the entity is

legally required to make reasonable efforts to resell the real estate unit to a

third party. If the entity finds a new buyer, a new contract is executed and

the original contract is not novated to the third party. If the resale price in

the contract with the third party is less than the original purchase price

(plus selling costs), the customer is legally obliged to pay the difference to

the entity.

The entity concludes that the over-time criteria in IFRS 15.35(a)

and (b) are not met. In considering the over-time criterion in

IFRS 15.35(c), the entity determines that its performance does not

create an asset with an alternative use to the entity. It, therefore,

considers whether it has an enforceable right to payment.

298

IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

299

IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 290

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of determining whether an enforceable right to payment

exists when cancellation by a customer obliges an entity to resell the

asset (cont’d)

The Committee observed that, when determining whether an entity

has an enforceable right to payment, an entity considers the payment

to which it is entitled under the existing contract with the customer,

which relates to its performance under that contract. It does not

consider the consideration it would receive from a third party in a

potential resale contract. Such consideration relates to that resale

contract and is not payment for performance under the existing

contract with the customer.

Since Entity X cannot consider the resale contract, the only future

payment to which it has rights under the existing contract with the

customer is for the difference between the resale price of the unit, if

any, and its original purchase price (plus selling costs). That payment,

together with the deposit received, does not (at all times throughout

the duration of the contract) entitle the entity to an amount that at

least approximates the selling price of the part-constructed real estate

unit (i.e., it does not compensate for performance completed to date).

Therefore, Entity X does not have an enforceable right to payment for

performance completed to date. The Committee concluded that none

of the over-time criteria are met and the entity would recognise

revenue at a point in time in accordance with IFRS 15.38.

7.1.4 Measuring progress

When an entity has determined that a performance obligation is satisfied over

time, the standard requires the entity to select a single revenue recognition

method for the relevant performance obligation that faithfully depicts the

entity’s performance in transferring control of the goods or services. An entity

should apply the method selected consistently to similar performance

obligations. In addition, at the end of each reporting period, an entity is required

to remeasure its progress toward completion of the performance obligation.

The standard provides the following requirements to meet this objective:

Extract from IFRS 15

Methods for measuring progress

41. Appropriate methods of measuring progress include output methods

and input methods. Paragraphs B14–B19 provide guidance for using

output methods and input methods to measure an entity’s progress

towards complete satisfaction of a performance obligation. In determining

the appropriate method for measuring progress, an entity shall consider

the nature of the good or service that the entity promised to transfer to

the customer.

291 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

42. When applying a method for measuring progress, an entity shall

exclude from the measure of progress any goods or services for which

the entity does not transfer control to a customer. Conversely, an entity

shall include in the measure of progress any goods or services for which

the entity does transfer control to a customer when satisfying that

performance obligation.

43. As circumstances change over time, an entity shall update its measure

of progress to reflect any changes in the outcome of the performance

obligation. Such changes to an entity’s measure of progress shall be

accounted for as a change in accounting estimate in accordance with

IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors.

While the standard requires an entity to update its estimates related to

the measure of progress selected, it does not permit a change in method.

A performance obligation is accounted for using the method the entity selects

(i.e., either the specific input or output method it has chosen) from inception

until the performance obligation has been fully satisfied. It would not be

appropriate for an entity to start recognising revenue based on an input

measure and later switch to an output measure (or to switch from one input

method to a different input method). Furthermore, the standard requires that

the selected method be applied to similar contracts in similar circumstances.

It also requires that a single method of measuring progress be used for each

performance obligation. The Board noted that applying more than one method

to measure performance would effectively override the guidance on identifying

performance obligations.

300

If an entity does not have a reasonable basis to measure its progress, revenue

cannot be recognised until progress can be reasonably measured. However, if

an entity can determine that a loss will not be incurred, the standard requires

the entity to recognise revenue up to the amount of the costs incurred. The

IASB explained that an entity would need to stop using this method once

it is able to reasonably measure its progress towards satisfaction of the

performance obligation.

301

Finally, stakeholders had asked whether an entity’s

inability to measure progress would mean that costs incurred would also be

deferred. The Board clarified that costs cannot be deferred in these situations,

unless they meet the criteria for capitalisation under IFRS 15.95 (see

section 9.3.2).

302

300

IFRS 15.BC161.

301

IFRS 15.BC180.

302

IFRS 15.BC179.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 292

The standard provides two methods for recognising revenue on contracts

involving the transfer of goods or services over time: input methods and output

methods. The standard contains the following application guidance

on these methods:

Extract from IFRS 15

Output methods

B15. Output methods recognise revenue on the basis of direct measurements

of the value to the customer of the goods or services transferred to date

relative to the remaining goods or services promised under the contract.

Output methods include methods such as surveys of performance completed

to date, appraisals of results achieved, milestones reached, time elapsed and

units produced or units delivered. When an entity evaluates whether to apply

an output method to measure its progress, the entity shall consider whether

the output selected would faithfully depict the entity’s performance towards

complete satisfaction of the performance obligation. An output method

would not provide a faithful depiction of the entity’s performance if the

output selected would fail to measure some of the goods or services for

which control has transferred to the customer. For example, output methods

based on units produced or units delivered would not faithfully depict an

entity’s performance in satisfying a performance obligation if, at the end of

the reporting period, the entity’s performance has produced work in progress

or finished goods controlled by the customer that are not included in the

measurement of the output.

B16. As a practical expedient, if an entity has a right to consideration from

a customer in an amount that corresponds directly with the value to the

customer of the entity’s performance completed to date (for example,

a service contract in which an entity bills a fixed amount for each hour of

service provided), the entity may recognise revenue in the amount to which

the entity has a right to invoice.

B17. The disadvantages of output methods are that the outputs used to

measure progress may not be directly observable and the information

required to apply them may not be available to an entity without undue

cost. Therefore, an input method may be necessary.

Input methods

B18. Input methods recognise revenue on the basis of the entity’s efforts or

inputs to the satisfaction of a performance obligation (for example, resources

consumed, labour hours expended, costs incurred, time elapsed or machine

hours used) relative to the total expected inputs to the satisfaction of that

performance obligation. If the entity’s efforts or inputs are expended evenly

throughout the performance period, it may be appropriate for the entity to

recognise revenue on a straight-line basis.

In determining the best method for measuring progress that faithfully depicts

an entity’s performance, an entity needs to consider both the nature of the

promised goods or services and the nature of the entity’s performance. In other

words, an entity’s selection of a method to measure its performance needs to

be consistent with the nature of its promise to the customer and what the entity

has agreed to transfer to the customer. To illustrate this concept, the Basis

for Conclusions cites, as an example, a contract for health club services.

303

Regardless of when, or how frequently, the customer uses the health club,

303

IFRS 15.BC164.

293 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

the entity’s obligation to stand ready for the contractual period does not

change. Furthermore, the customer is required to pay the fee regardless of

whether the customer uses the health club. As a result, the entity would need

to select a measure of progress based on its service of standing ready to make

the health club available. Example 18 in the standard (see section 7.1.4.C)

illustrates how a health club might select this measure of progress.

7.1.4.A Output methods

While there is no preferable measure of progress, the IASB stated in the Basis

for Conclusions that, conceptually, an output measure is the most faithful

depiction of an entity’s performance. This is because it directly measures

the value of the goods or services transferred to the customer.

304

However,

the Board discussed two output methods that may not be appropriate in many

instances if the entity’s performance obligation is satisfied over time: units of

delivery and units of production.

305

Units-of-delivery or units-of-production methods may not result in the best

depiction of an entity’s performance over time if there is material work in

progress at the end of the reporting period. In these cases, the IASB observed

that using a units-of-delivery or units-of-production method would distort the

entity’s performance because it would not recognise revenue for the customer-

controlled assets that are created before delivery or before construction is

complete. This is because, when an entity determines control transfers to the

customer over time, it has concluded that the customer controls any resulting

asset as it is created. Therefore, the entity must recognise revenue related to

those goods or services for which control has transferred. The IASB also stated,

in the Basis for Conclusions, that a units-of-delivery or units-of-production

method may not be appropriate if the contract provides both design and

production services because each item produced “may not transfer an equal

amount of value to the customer”.

306

That is, it is likely that the items produced

earlier have a higher value than those that are produced later.

It is important to note that ‘value to the customer’ in IFRS 15.B15 refers to an

objective method of measuring the entity’s performance in the contract. This

is not intended to be assessed by reference to the market prices, stand-alone

selling prices or the value a customer perceives to be embodied in the goods or

services.

307

The TRG agenda paper noted that this concept of value is different

from the concept of value an entity uses to determine whether it can use

the ‘right to invoice’ practical expedient, as discussed below. When an entity

determines whether items individually transfer an equal amount of value to the

customer (i.e., when applying IFRS 15.B15), the evaluation related to how much,

or what proportion, of the goods or services (i.e., quantities) have been delivered

(but not the price). For example, for purposes of applying IFRS 15.B15, an entity

might consider the amount of goods or services transferred to date in proportion

to the total expected goods or services to be transferred when measuring

progress. However, if this measure of progress results in material work in

progress at the end of the reporting period, it would not be appropriate, as

discussed above.

308

See the discussion below regarding the evaluation of ‘value

to the customer’ in the context of evaluating the ‘right to invoice’ practical

expedient in IFRS 15.B16.

304

IFRS 15.BC160.

305

IFRS 15.BC165.

306

IFRS 15.BC166.

307

IFRS 15.BC163.

308

TRG Agenda paper no. 40, Practical Expedient for Measuring Progress toward Complete

Satisfaction of a Performance Obligation, dated 13 July 2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 294

Practical expedient for measuring progress towards satisfaction of a

performance obligation

The IASB provided a practical expedient in IFRS 15.B16 for an entity that is using

an output method to measure progress towards completion of a performance

obligation that is satisfied over time. The practical expedient only applies if an

entity can demonstrate that the invoiced amount corresponds directly with the

value to the customer of the entity’s performance completed to date. In that

situation, the practical expedient allows an entity to recognise revenue in the

amount for which it has the right to invoice (i.e., the ‘right to invoice’ practical

expedient). An entity may be able to use this practical expedient for a service

contract in which an entity bills a fixed amount for each hour of service provided.

A TRG agenda paper noted that IFRS 15.B16 is intended as an expedient to some

aspects of Step 3, Step 4 and Step 5 in the standard. Because this practical

expedient allows an entity to recognise revenue on the basis of invoicing,

revenue is recognised by multiplying the price (assigned to the goods or services

delivered) by the measure of progress (i.e., the quantities or units transferred).

Therefore, an entity effectively bypasses the steps in the model for determining

the transaction price, allocating that transaction price to the performance

obligations and determining when to recognise revenue. However, it does not

permit an entity to bypass the requirements for identifying the performance

obligations in the contract and evaluating whether the performance obligation

are satisfied over time, which is a requirement to use this expedient.

309

To apply the practical expedient, an entity must also be able to assert that the

right to consideration from a customer corresponds directly with the value to

the customer of the entity’s performance to date. When determining whether

the amount that has been invoiced to the customer corresponds directly with

the value to the customer of an entity’s performance completed to date, the

entity could evaluate the amount that has been invoiced in comparison to market

prices, stand-alone selling prices or another reasonable measure of value to

the customer. See Question 7-17 in section 7.1.4.C for the TRG discussion on

evaluating value to the customer in contracts with changing rates.

Furthermore, TRG members also noted in their discussion of the TRG agenda

paper that an entity would have to evaluate all significant upfront payments or

retrospective adjustments (e.g., accumulating rebates) in order to determine

whether the amount the entity has a right to invoice for each good or service

corresponds directly to the value to the customer of the entity’s performance

completed to date. That is, if an upfront payment or retrospective adjustment

significantly shifts payment for value to the customer to the front or back-end

of a contract, it may be difficult for an entity to conclude that the amount

invoiced corresponds directly with the value provided to the customer for

goods or services.

310

309

TRG Agenda paper no. 40, Practical Expedient for Measuring Progress toward Complete

Satisfaction of a Performance Obligation, dated 13 July 2015.

310

TRG Agenda paper no. 40, Practical Expedient for Measuring Progress toward Complete

Satisfaction of a Performance Obligation, dated 13 July 2015.

295 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The TRG agenda paper also stated that the presence of an agreed-upon

customer payment schedule does not mean that the amount an entity has

the right to invoice corresponds directly with the value to the customer of

the entity’s performance completed to date. In addition, the TRG agenda paper

stated that the existence of specified contract minimums (or volume discounts)

would not always preclude the application of the practical expedient, provided

that these clauses are deemed non-substantive (e.g., the entity expects to

receive amounts in excess of the specified minimums).

311

7.1.4.B Input methods (updated September 2019)

Input methods recognise revenue based on an entity’s efforts or inputs towards

satisfying a performance obligation relative to the total expected efforts or

inputs to satisfy the performance obligation. Examples of input methods

mentioned in the standard include costs incurred, time elapsed, resources

consumed or labour hours expended. An entity is required to select a single

measure of progress for each performance obligation that depicts the entity’s

performance in transferring control of the goods or services promised to

a customer. If an entity’s efforts or inputs are used evenly throughout the

entity’s performance period, a time-based measure that results in a straight-

line recognition of revenue may be appropriate. However, there may be a

disconnect between an entity’s inputs (e.g., cost of non-distinct goods included

in a single performance obligation satisfied over time) and the depiction of

an entity’s performance to date. The standard includes specific application

guidance on adjustments to the measure of progress that may be necessary

in those situations. See below for additional discussion.

Regardless of which method an entity selects, it excludes from its measure

of progress any goods or services for which control has not transferred to

the customer. Likewise, if an entity uses an input method based on costs

incurred, it excludes from its measure of progress those costs that do not

reflect its performance in transferring a good or service to the customer

(e.g., borrowing costs incurred, which it incurs to fund its activities, rather than

to fulfil a performance obligation).

311

TRG Agenda paper no. 44, July 2015 Meeting – Summary of Issues Discussed and Next

Steps, dated 9 November 2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 296

Adjustments to the measure of progress based on an input method

If an entity applies an input method that uses costs incurred to measure its

progress towards completion (e.g., cost to cost), the cost incurred may not

always be proportionate to the entity’s progress in satisfying the performance

obligation. To address this shortcoming of input methods, the standard provides

the following guidance:

Extract from IFRS 15

B19. A shortcoming of input methods is that there may not be a direct

relationship between an entity’s inputs and the transfer of control of goods

or services to a customer. Therefore, an entity shall exclude from an input

method the effects of any inputs that, in accordance with the objective of

measuring progress in paragraph 39, do not depict the entity’s performance

in transferring control of goods or services to the customer. For instance,

when using a cost-based input method, an adjustment to the measure of

progress may be required in the following circumstances:

(a) When a cost incurred does not contribute to an entity’s progress in

satisfying the performance obligation. For example, an entity would not

recognise revenue on the basis of costs incurred that are attributable

to significant inefficiencies in the entity’s performance that were

not reflected in the price of the contract (for example, the costs of

unexpected amounts of wasted materials, labour or other resources

that were incurred to satisfy the performance obligation).

(b) When a cost incurred is not proportionate to the entity’s progress in

satisfying the performance obligation. In those circumstances, the best

depiction of the entity’s performance may be to adjust the input method

to recognise revenue only to the extent of that cost incurred. For

example, a faithful depiction of an entity’s performance might be to

recognise revenue at an amount equal to the cost of a good used to

satisfy a performance obligation if the entity expects at contract

inception that all of the following conditions would be met:

(i) the good is not distinct;

(ii) the customer is expected to obtain control of the good significantly

before receiving services related to the good;

(iii) the cost of the transferred good is significant relative to the total

expected costs to completely satisfy the performance obligation; and

(iv) the entity procures the good from a third party and is not

significantly involved in designing and manufacturing the good (but

the entity is acting as a principal in accordance with paragraphs B34–

B38).

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In a combined performance obligation comprised of non-distinct goods or

services, the customer may obtain control of some of the goods before

the entity provides the services related to those goods. This could be the

case when goods are delivered to a customer site, but the entity has not

yet integrated the goods into the overall project (e.g., the materials are

‘uninstalled’). The Board concluded that, if an entity were using a percentage-

of-completion method based on costs incurred to measure its progress

(i.e., cost-to-cost), the measure of progress may be inappropriately affected by

the delivery of these goods and that a pure application of such a measure of

progress would result in overstated revenue.

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IFRS 15.B19 indicates that, in such circumstances (e.g., when control of the

individual goods has transferred to the customer, but the integration service

has not yet occurred), the best depiction of the entity’s performance may be

to recognise revenue at an amount equal to the cost of the goods used to

satisfy the performance obligation (i.e., a zero margin). This is because the

costs incurred are not proportionate to an entity’s progress in satisfying the

performance obligation. It is also important to note that determining when

control of the individual goods (that are part of a performance obligation)

have transferred to the customer requires judgement.

The Board noted that the adjustment to the cost-to-cost measure of progress

for uninstalled materials is generally intended to apply to a subset of

construction-type goods that have a significant cost relative to the contract

and for which the entity is effectively providing a simple procurement service

to the customer.

313

By applying the adjustment to recognise revenue at an

amount equal to the cost of uninstalled materials, an entity is recognising

a margin similar to the one the entity would have recognised if the customer

had supplied the materials. The IASB clarified that the outcome of recognising

no margin for uninstalled materials is necessary to adjust the cost-to-cost

calculation to faithfully depict an entity’s performance.

314

In addition, situations may arise in which not all of the costs incurred

contribute to the entity’s progress in completing the performance obligation.

IFRS 15.B19(a) requires that, under an input method, an entity exclude these

types of costs (e.g., costs related to significant inefficiencies, wasted materials,

required rework) from the measure of progress, unless such costs were

reflected in the price of the contract.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

The requirements for uninstalled materials may be a significant change from

previous practice for some entities. IAS 11 contained a requirement that when

the stage of completion was determined by reference to the contract costs

incurred to date, only those contract costs that reflected work performed were

included.

315

Hence, costs related to future activities, such as costs of materials

(that did not have a high specificity to the contact) delivered to a contract site

or set aside for use in a contract, but not yet installed, would not form part

of the assessment of costs incurred to date.

312

IFRS 15.BC171.

313

IFRS 15.BC172.

314

IFRS 15.BC174.

315

IAS 11.31.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 298

The standard includes the following example, illustrating how uninstalled

materials are considered in measuring progress towards complete satisfaction

of a performance obligation:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 19 — Uninstalled materials (IFRS 15.IE95-IE100)

In November 20X2, an entity contracts with a customer to refurbish a 3-

storey building and install new elevators for total consideration of CU5

million. The promised refurbishment service, including the installation

of elevators, is a single performance obligation satisfied over time. Total

expected costs are CU4 million, including CU1.5 million for the elevators.

The entity determines that it acts as a principal in accordance with

paragraphs B34–B38 of IFRS 15, because it obtains control of the elevators

before they are transferred to the customer.

A summary of the transaction price and expected costs is as follows:

Transaction price

5,000,000

Expected costs

Elevators

1,500,000

Other costs

2,500,000

Total expected costs

4,000,000

The entity uses an input method based on costs incurred to measure its

progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation.

The entity assesses whether the costs incurred to procure the elevators

are proportionate to the entity’s progress in satisfying the performance

obligation, in accordance with paragraph B19 of IFRS 15. The customer

obtains control of the elevators when they are delivered to the site in

December 20X2, although the elevators will not be installed until June 20X3.

The costs to procure the elevators (CU1.5 million) are significant relative to

the total expected costs to completely satisfy the performance obligation

(CU4 million). The entity is not involved in designing or manufacturing the

elevators.

The entity concludes that including the costs to procure the elevators in the

measure of progress would overstate the extent of the entity’s performance.

Consequently, in accordance with paragraph B19 of IFRS 15, the entity

adjusts its measure of progress to exclude the costs to procure the elevators

from the measure of costs incurred and from the transaction price. The entity

recognises revenue for the transfer of the elevators in an amount equal to

the costs to procure the elevators (ie at a zero margin). As of 31 December

20X2 the entity observes that:

(a) other costs incurred (excluding elevators) are CU500,000; and

(b) performance is 20 per cent complete (ie CU500,000 ÷ CU2,500,000).

Consequently, at 31 December 20X2, the entity recognises the following:

Revenue

2,200,000

(a)

Cost of goods sold

2,000,000

(b)

Profit

200,000

(a) Revenue recognised is calculated as (20 per cent × CU3,500,000) + CU1,500,000.

(CU3,500,000 is CU5,000,000 transaction price – CU1,500,000 costs of elevators.)

(b) Cost of goods sold is CU500,000 of costs incurred + CU1,500,000 costs of elevators.

299 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

When costs for uninstalled materials are excluded from the measure of progress

and those materials are subsequently installed, an entity will need to apply

significant judgement, based on its assessment of which treatment best depicts

its performance in the contract, to determine whether the costs should be:

(a) included in the measure of progress upon installation; or (b) excluded from

the measure of progress for the duration of the contract.

Approach (a): once the materials have been installed, the costs for those

materials are included in the measure of progress

IFRS 15.B19(b) can be read to apply only while materials are uninstalled. Once

installed, it no longer applies to the materials and the entity reverts to the

general requirements for measuring progress over time. The Basis for

Conclusions indicates that recognising the profit margin for the performance

obligation as a whole

before

the goods are installed could result in overstated

revenue, and that IFRS 15.B19(b) applies to uninstalled materials and that it is

only those materials that are

not yet installed

that attract a zero margin.

316

Furthermore, Example 19 of IFRS 15 illustrates the accounting for materials

before they are installed (at the point in time that control of those materials has

passed to the customer) and not after being installed.

When the profit margin applicable to the procured item(s) differs significantly

from the profit margin attributable to other goods and services to be provided

in accordance with the contract, the application of the profit margin for the

performance obligation as a whole may overstate the amount of revenue and

profit that is attributed to the procured item(s). Entities will need to consider

whether the outcome of applying this approach is consistent with the underlying

principle in IFRS 15.39, that the amount of revenue recognised depict its

performance, as it satisfies its performance obligation.

If this approach is used, an entity needs to ensure it does not use a profit margin

that differs from the profit margin for the performance obligation as a whole.

That is, it should not attribute different profit margins to each component within

a single performance obligation. This would effectively treat each component as

a separate performance obligation when they are not distinct (and, therefore,

inappropriately bypass the requirements for identifying performance

obligations).

317

Approach (b): the costs for uninstalled materials are excluded from the measure

of progress for the duration of the contract

IFRS 15.B19(b) does not distinguish goods that have been installed from those

that have not yet been installed and the adjustments to the measure of progress

in Example 19 of IFRS 15 can be read to apply for the duration of the

contract.

318

As discussed above, IFRS 15.B19(b) is generally intended to apply

to a subset of construction-type goods that have a significant cost relative to

the contract and for which the entity is effectively providing a simple

procurement service to the customer or if the customer had supplied the

materials themselves.

319

Approach (b) shifts the margin from uninstalled materials to the other

components within the single performance obligation, which is recognised as

the related costs are incurred (and included in the measure of progress).

Entities may need to consider whether this reflects their performance if they

typically charge a margin for procurement of similar materials.

316

IFRS 15.BC171-BC172, BC174.

317

IFRS 15.BC171.

318

IFRS 15.IE98.

319

IFRS 15.BC172.

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7.1.4.C Examples

The following example illustrates some possible considerations when

determining an appropriate measure of progress:

Illustration 7-1 — Choosing the measure of progress

A ship-building entity enters into a contract to build 15 vessels for a

customer over a three-year period. The contract includes both design

and production services. The entity has not built a vessel of this type

in the past. In addition, the entity expects that the first vessels may take

longer to produce than the last vessels because, as the entity gains

experience building the vessels, it expects to be able to construct the

vessels more efficiently.

Assume that the entity has determined that the design and production

services represent a single performance obligation. In this situation, it

is likely that the entity would not choose a ’units-of-delivery’ method as

a measure of progress because that method would not accurately capture

the level of performance. That is, such a method would not reflect the

entity’s efforts during the design phase of the contract because no revenue

would be recognised until a vessel was shipped. In such situations, an

entity would likely determine that an input method is more appropriate,

such as a percentage of completion method based on costs incurred.

The standard also includes the following example on selecting an appropriate

measure of progress towards satisfaction of a performance obligation:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 18 — Measuring progress when making goods or services available

(IFRS 15.IE92-IE94)

An entity, an owner and manager of health clubs, enters into a contract with

a customer for one year of access to any of its health clubs. The customer

has unlimited use of the health clubs and promises to pay CU100 per month.

The entity determines that its promise to the customer is to provide a service

of making the health clubs available for the customer to use as and when

the customer wishes. This is because the extent to which the customer uses

the health clubs does not affect the amount of the remaining goods and

services to which the customer is entitled. The entity concludes that

the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits of the

entity's performance as it performs by making the health clubs available.

Consequently, the entity's performance obligation is satisfied over time in

accordance with paragraph 35(a) of IFRS 15.

The entity also determines that the customer benefits from the entity's

service of making the health clubs available evenly throughout the year. (That

is, the customer benefits from having the health clubs available, regardless

of whether the customer uses it or not.) Consequently, the entity concludes

that the best measure of progress towards complete satisfaction of the

performance obligation over time is a time-based measure and it recognises

revenue on a straight-line basis throughout the year at CU100 per month.

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Frequently asked questions

Question 7-13: How would an entity measure progress towards satisfaction

of a stand-ready obligation that is satisfied over time? [TRG meeting

26 January 2015 – Agenda paper no. 16]

TRG members generally agreed that an entity should not default to a

straight-line revenue attribution model. However, they also generally agreed

that if an entity expects the customer to receive and consume the benefits

of its promise throughout the contract period, a time-based measure of

progress (e.g., straight-line) would be appropriate. The TRG agenda paper

noted that this is generally the case for unspecified upgrade rights, help-desk

support contracts and cable or satellite television contracts. TRG members

generally agreed that rateable recognition may not be appropriate if the

benefits are not spread evenly over the contract period (e.g., an annual

snow removal contract that provides most benefits in winter).

Question 7-14: Can multiple measures of progress be used to depict an

entity’s performance in transferring a performance obligation comprised

of two or more goods and/or services that is satisfied over time (i.e., a

combined performance obligation)?

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[TRG meeting 13 July 2015 –

Agenda paper no. 41]

TRG members agreed that when an entity has determined that a combined

performance obligation is satisfied over time, the entity has to select a single

measure of progress that faithfully depicts the entity’s performance in

transferring the goods or services. For example, using different measures

of progress for different non-distinct goods or services in the combined

performance obligation would be inappropriate because doing so ignores

the unit of account that has been identified under the standard (i.e., the

single combined performance obligation). Furthermore, it would also be

inappropriate because the entity would recognise revenue in a way that

overrides the separation and allocation requirements in the standard.

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The TRG agenda paper noted that a single method of measuring progress

should not be broadly interpreted to mean an entity may apply multiple

measures of progress as long as all measures used are either output or

input measures. TRG members also acknowledged that previously there

was diversity in practice and selecting a single measure of progress may

represent a change for entities that used a multiple attribution model in

the past when deliverables could not be separated into units of account.

Question 7-15: How would an entity determine the appropriate single

measure of progress for a combined performance obligation that is satisfied

over time? [TRG meeting 13 July 2015 – Agenda paper no. 41]

TRG members acknowledged that it may be difficult to appropriately

determine a single measure of progress when the entity transfers

goods or services that make up the combined performance obligation over

different points of time and/or the entity would otherwise use a different

320

Under Step 2 of the model, a single performance obligation may contain multiple

non-distinct goods or services and/or distinct goods or services that were required to be

combined with non-distinct goods or services in order to identify a distinct bundle. This

bundled performance obligation is referred to as a ‘combined performance obligation’ for

the purpose of this discussion.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

measure of progress (e.g., a time-based method versus a labour-based

input method) if each promise was a separate performance obligation.

Such a determination requires significant judgement, but TRG members

generally agreed that the measure of progress selected is not meant to be

a ‘free choice’. Entities need to consider the nature of the overall promise

for the combined performance obligation in determining the measure

of progress to use. For example, entities should not default to a ‘final

deliverable’ methodology, such that all revenue would be recognised over

the performance period of the last promised good or service. Rather,

an entity is required to select the single measure of progress that most

faithfully depicts the entity’s performance in satisfying its combined

performance obligation.

Some TRG members observed that an entity would need to consider the

reasons why goods or services were bundled into a combined performance

obligation in order to determine the appropriate pattern of revenue

recognition. For example, if a good or service was combined with other

goods or services because it was not capable of being distinct, that may

indicate that it does not provide value or use to the customer on its own.

As such, the entity would not contemplate the transfer of that good or

service when determining the pattern of revenue recognition for the

combined performance obligation.

TRG members also generally agreed that, if an appropriately selected

single measure of progress does not faithfully depict the economics of

the arrangement, the entity should challenge whether the performance

obligation was correctly combined (i.e., there may be more than one

performance obligation).

Question 7-16: Can control of a good or service underlying a performance

obligation satisfied over time be transferred at discrete points in time?

[FASB TRG meeting 18 April 2016 – Agenda paper no. 53]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that, if a performance obligation meets

the criteria for revenue to be recognised over time (rather than at a point in

time), control of the underlying good or service is not transferred at discrete

points in time. Because control transfers as an entity performs, an entity’s

performance (as reflected using an appropriate measure of progress) should

not result in the creation of a material asset in the entity’s accounts

(e.g., work in progress).

Stakeholders had queried whether control of a good or service underlying

a performance obligation that is satisfied over time can be transferred at

discrete points in time because the standards highlight several output

methods, including ’milestones reached’, as potentially acceptable methods

for measuring progress towards satisfaction of an over-time performance

obligation. FASB TRG members generally agreed that an entity could use

an output method only if that measure of progress correlates to the entity’s

performance to date.

At the May 2016 IASB meeting, IASB staff indicated support for the

conclusions reached in the TRG agenda paper on this issue, noting that it

provides some clarity about when to use milestones reached as a measure

of progress. Furthermore, the members of the IASB who observed the FASB

TRG meeting indicated that the FASB TRG discussion on the topic was helpful.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 7-17: Can an entity use the ‘right to invoice’ practical expedient

for a contract that includes rates that change over the contractual term?

[TRG meeting 13 July 2015 – Agenda paper no. 40]

TRG members generally agreed that determining whether an entity can

apply the ‘right to invoice’ practical expedient requires judgement. They

also generally agreed that it is possible for entities to meet the requirements

for the practical expedient in contracts with changing rates, provided

that the changes in rates correspond directly to changes in value to the

customer. That is, a contract does not need to have a fixed price per unit

for the duration of a contract in order to qualify for the practical expedient.

Examples of contracts that might qualify include an IT outsourcing

arrangement with rates that decrease over the contract term as the level

of effort to the customer decreases or a multi-year electricity contract that

contemplates the forward market price of electricity. However, the SEC staff

observer also noted that entities need to have strong evidence that variable

prices reflect the value to the customer in order to recognise variable

amounts of revenue for similar goods or services.

Question 7-18: If an entity does not met the criteria

to use the ‘right to invoice’ practical expedient, can

it still use the disclosure practical expedient regarding the amount of

transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations? [TRG

meeting 13 July 2015 – Agenda paper no. 40]

See the response to Question 10-10 in section 10.5.1.

Question 7-19: If an entity begins activities on a specifically anticipated

contract either: (1) before it agrees to the contract with the customer; or

(2) before the arrangement meets the criteria to be considered a contract

under the standard, how would revenue for those activities be recognised

at the date a contract exists? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015 – Agenda paper

no. 33]

TRG members generally agreed that if the goods or services that ultimately

will be transferred meet the criteria to be recognised over time, revenue

would be recognised on a cumulative catch-up basis at the ‘contract

establishment date’, reflecting the performance obligation(s) that are

partially or fully satisfied at that time. The TRG agenda paper noted that

the cumulative catch-up method is considered to be consistent with the

overall principle of the standard that revenue is recognised when (or as)

an entity transfers control of goods or services to a customer.

Question 7-20: How should an entity account for fulfilment costs incurred

prior to the contract establishment date that are outside the scope of

another standard (e.g., IAS 2)? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015 - Agenda

paper no. 33]

See the response to Question 9-13 in section 9.3.2.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 304

7.2 Control transferred at a point in time (updated September

2019)

For performance obligations in which control is not transferred over time,

control is transferred as at a point in time. In many situations, the determination

when

that point in time occurs is relatively straightforward. However, in

other circumstances, this determination is more complex.

To help entities determine the point in time when a customer obtains control of

a particular good or service, the Board provided the following requirements:

Extract from IFRS 15

38. If a performance obligation is not satisfied over time in accordance with

paragraphs 35–37, an entity satisfies the performance obligation at a point in

time. To determine the point in time at which a customer obtains control of

a promised asset and the entity satisfies a performance obligation, the entity

shall consider the requirements for control in paragraphs 31–34. In addition,

an entity shall consider indicators of the transfer of control, which include,

but are not limited to, the following:

(a) The entity has a present right to payment for the asset—if a customer

is presently obliged to pay for an asset, then that may indicate that

the customer has obtained the ability to direct the use of, and obtain

substantially all of the remaining benefits from, the asset in exchange.

(b) The customer has legal title to the asset—legal title may indicate which

party to a contract has the ability to direct the use of, and obtain

substantially all of the remaining benefits from, an asset or to restrict

the access of other entities to those benefits. Therefore, the transfer of

legal title of an asset may indicate that the customer has obtained control

of the asset. If an entity retains legal title solely as protection against the

customer’s failure to pay, those rights of the entity would not preclude

the customer from obtaining control of an asset.

customer’s physical possession of an asset may indicate that the

customer has the ability to direct the use of, and obtain substantially all

of the remaining benefits from, the asset or to restrict the access of other

entities to those benefits. However, physical possession may not coincide

with control of an asset. For example, in some repurchase agreements

and in some consignment arrangements, a customer or consignee may

have physical possession of an asset that the entity controls. Conversely,

in some bill-and-hold arrangements, the entity may have physical

possession of an asset that the customer controls. Paragraphs B64–B76,

B77–B78 and B79–B82 provide guidance on accounting for repurchase

agreements, consignment arrangements and bill-and-hold arrangements,

respectively.

305 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

(d) The customer has the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the

asset—the transfer of the significant risks and rewards of ownership of

an asset to the customer may indicate that the customer has obtained

the ability to direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the

remaining benefits from, the asset. However, when evaluating the risks

and rewards of ownership of a promised asset, an entity shall exclude

any risks that give rise to a separate performance obligation in addition

to the performance obligation to transfer the asset. For example, an

entity may have transferred control of an asset to a customer but

not yet satisfied an additional performance obligation to provide

maintenance services related to the transferred asset.

(e) The customer has accepted the asset—the customer’s acceptance of

an asset may indicate that it has obtained the ability to direct the use

of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from, the asset.

To evaluate the effect of a contractual customer acceptance clause on

when control of an asset is transferred, an entity shall consider the

guidance in paragraphs B83–B86.

None of the indicators above are meant to individually determine whether the

customer has gained control of the good or service. For example, while shipping

terms may provide information about when legal title to a good transfers to the

customer, they are not determinative when evaluating the point in time at which

the customer obtains control of the promised asset. See Question 7-21 below

for further discussion on shipping terms. An entity must consider all relevant

facts and circumstances to determine whether control has transferred. The

IASB also made it clear that the indicators are not meant to be a checklist.

Furthermore, not all of them must be present for an entity to determine that

the customer has gained control. Rather, the indicators are factors that are

often present when a customer has obtained control of an asset and the list

is meant to help entities apply the principle of control.

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IFRS 15.38 also states that indicators of control transfer are not limited to

those listed above. For example, channel stuffing is a practice that entities

sometimes use to increase sales by inducing distributors or resellers to

buy substantially more goods than can be promptly resold. To induce the

distributors to make such purchases, an entity may offer deep discounts that

it would have to evaluate as variable consideration in estimating the transaction

price (see section 5.2). Channel stuffing also may be accompanied by side

agreements with the distributors that provide a right of return for unsold

goods that is in excess of the normal sales return privileges offered by the

entity. Significant increases in, or excess levels of, inventory in a distribution

channel due to channel stuffing may affect or preclude the ability to conclude

that control of such goods has transferred. Entities need to carefully consider

the expanded rights of returns offered to customers in connection with channel

stuffing in order to determine whether they prevent the entity from recognising

revenue at the time of the sales transaction.

If an entity uses channel stuffing practices, it should consider whether

disclosure in its financial statements is required when it expects these practices

to materially affect future operating results. For example, if an entity sold

excess levels into a certain distribution channel at, or near, the end of a

reporting period, it is likely that those sales volumes would not be sustainable in

future periods. That is, sales into that channel may, in fact, slow down in future

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Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 306

periods as the excess inventory takes longer to entirely sell through the

channel. In such a case, the entity should consider whether disclosure of the

effect of the channel stuffing practice on its current and future earnings is

required, if material.

In determining when control transfers, it is important that the entity consider the

good or service it is transferring, not the right to obtain that good or service in

the future. In its March 2018 meeting, the IFRS IC noted that the right to sell (or

pledge) a right to obtain an asset (e.g., real estate) in the future is not evidence

of control of the asset itself (see Question 7-4 in section 7.1.2 and Question 7-

11 in section 7.1.3 for further discussion).

323

We discuss the indicators in IFRS 15.38 that an entity considers when

determining when it transfers control of the promised good or service to

the customer in more detail below.

Present right to payment for the asset

As noted in the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB considered, but rejected

specifying a right to payment as an overarching criterion for determining when

revenue would be recognised. Therefore, while the date at which the entity has

a right to payment for the asset may be an indicator of the date the customer

obtained control of the asset, it does not always indicate that the customer has

obtained control of the asset.

324

For example, in some contracts, a customer is

required to make a non-refundable upfront payment, but receives no goods or

services in return at that time.

Legal title and physical possession

The term ‘title’ is often associated with a legal definition denoting the ownership

of an asset or legally recognised rights that preclude others’ claim to the asset.

Accordingly, the transfer of title often indicates that control of an asset has

been transferred. Determination of which party has title to an asset does not

always depend on which party has physical possession of the asset, but without

contractual terms to the contrary, title generally passes to the customer at

the time of the physical transfer. For example, in a retail store transaction, there

is often no clear documentation of the transfer of title. However, it is generally

understood that the title to a product is transferred at the time it is purchased

by the customer.

While the retail store transaction is relatively straightforward, determining

when title has transferred may be more complicated in other arrangements.

Transactions that involve the shipment of products may have varying shipping

terms and may involve third-party shipping agents. In such cases, a clear

understanding of the seller’s practices and the contractual terms is required

in order to make an assessment of when title transfers. As indicated in

IFRS 15.38(b), legal title and/or physical possession may be an indicator

of which party to a contract has the ability to direct the use of, and obtain

substantially all of the remaining benefits from, an asset or to restrict the

access of other entities to those benefits. See Question 7-21 for further

discussion on how shipping terms affect when an entity has transferred

control of a good to a customer.

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IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB’s website.

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IFRS 15.BC148.

307 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Risks and rewards of ownership

Although the Board included the risks and rewards of ownership as one factor

to consider when evaluating whether control of an asset has transferred, it

emphasised, in the Basis for Conclusions, that this factor does not change

the principle of determining the transfer of goods or services on the basis of

control.

325

The concept of the risks and rewards of ownership is based on how

the seller and the customer share both the potential gain (the reward) and the

potential loss (risk) associated with owning an asset. Rewards of ownership

include the following:

• Rights to all appreciation in value of the asset

• Unrestricted usage of the asset

• Ability to modify the asset

• Ability to transfer or sell the asset

• Ability to grant a security interest in the asset

Conversely, the risks of ownership include the following:

• Absorbing all of the declines in market value

• Incurring losses due to theft or damage of the asset

• Incurring losses due to changes in the business environment

(e.g., obsolescence, excess inventory, effect of retail pricing environment)

However, as noted in IFRS 15.38(d), an entity does not consider risks that give

rise to a separate performance obligation when evaluating whether the entity

has the risks of ownership of an asset. For example, an entity does not consider

warranty services that represent a separate performance obligation when

evaluating whether it retains the risks of ownership of the asset sold to the

customer.

Customer acceptance

See the discussion of this indicator in section 7.2.1.

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Example

The following example illustrates application of the indicators of the transfer of

control in IFRS 15.38 to a performance obligation that is satisfied at a point in

time:

Illustration 7-2 — Applying the indicators of the transfer of control to a

performance obligation satisfied at a point in time

BCB Liquors (BCB) uses a distribution network to sell its product to end-

consumers. Upon receipt of the product, a distributor receives legal title to

the goods and is required to pay BCB for the product. In this example, BCB

has determined its relationship with the distributor is not a consignment

agreement (see section 7.4). Rather, the distributor is BCB’s customer.

BCB determines that its performance obligation for the sale of product to

the distributor is satisfied at a point in time. BCB considers the indicators

of the transfer of control and concludes that control transfers to the

distributor when the product is delivered to the distributor. At this point in

time, BCB has a present right to payment and the distributor has legal title

and physical possession of the product, as well as the risks and rewards of

ownership. BCB concludes customer acceptance is a formality as BCB can

objectively determine that the goods meet the agreed-upon specifications

before shipment to the distributor.

Alternatively, if BCB sold the product to the distributor on consignment or

determined that the end-consumer was its customer, the distributor was

not obligated to pay for the product until it was sold to the end-consumer

and BCB had the ability to require the return of any unsold product or the

distributor had an unlimited amount of time to return any unsold products,

then BCB may have concluded that control of the product would not

transfer until it is sold to the end-consumer. Therefore, BCB would not

recognise revenue until the product was sold to the end-consumer.

Frequently asked questions

Question 7-21: How do shipping terms affect when an entity has transferred

control of a good to a customer?

Under the standard, an entity recognises revenue only when it satisfies an

identified performance obligation by transferring a promised good or service

to a customer. While shipping terms may provide information about when

legal title to a good transfers to the customer, they are not determinative

when evaluating the point in time at which the customer obtains control of the

promised asset. Entities must consider all relevant facts and circumstances to

determine whether control has transferred.

For example, when the shipping terms are free on board (FOB), entities need

to carefully consider whether the customer or the entity has the ability to

control the goods during the shipment period. Furthermore, if the entity

has the legal or constructive obligation to replace goods that are lost or

damaged in transit, it needs to evaluate whether that obligation influences

the customer’s ability to direct the use, and obtain substantially all of the

remaining benefits from, the goods. A selling entity’s historical practices

also need to be considered when evaluating whether control of a good has

transferred to a customer because the entity’s practices may override the

contractual terms of the arrangement.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Contractually specified shipping terms may vary depending on factors such as

the mode of transport (e.g., by sea, inland waterway, road, air) and whether

the goods are shipped locally or internationally. A selling entity may utilise

International Commerce Terms (Incoterms) to clarify when delivery occurs.

Incoterms are a series of pre-defined commercial terms published by the

International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) relating to international commercial

law. For example, the Incoterms ‘EXW’ or ‘Ex Works’ means that the selling

entity ‘delivers’ when it places the goods at the disposal of the customer,

either at the seller’s premises or at another named location (e.g., factory,

warehouse). The selling entity is not required to load the goods on any

collecting vehicle, nor does it need to clear the goods for export (if applicable,

See further discussion on the Ex Works Incoterm in section 7.5). The Incoterm

FOB means “the seller delivers the goods on board the vessel nominated by

the buyer at the named port of shipment or procures the goods already so

delivered. The risk of loss of or damage to the goods passes when the goods

are on board the vessel, and the buyer bears all costs from that moment

onwards”.

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7.2.1 Customer acceptance (updated October 2018)

When determining whether the customer has obtained control of the goods or

services, an entity must consider any customer acceptance clauses that require

the customer to approve the goods or services before it is obliged to pay for

them. If a customer does not accept the goods or services, the entity may not be

entitled to consideration, may be required to take remedial action or may be

required to take back the delivered good.

The standard provides the following application guidance regarding how to

evaluate customer acceptance provisions:

Extract from IFRS 15

B84. If an entity can objectively determine that control of a good or service

has been transferred to the customer in accordance with the agreed-upon

specifications in the contract, then customer acceptance is a formality

that would not affect the entity’s determination of when the customer

has obtained control of the good or service. For example, if the customer

acceptance clause is based on meeting specified size and weight

characteristics, an entity would be able to determine whether those criteria

have been met before receiving confirmation of the customer’s acceptance.

The entity’s experience with contracts for similar goods or services may

provide evidence that a good or service provided to the customer is in

accordance with the agreed-upon specifications in the contract. If revenue

is recognised before customer acceptance, the entity still must consider

whether there are any remaining performance obligations (for example,

installation of equipment) and evaluate whether to account for them

separately.

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See the ICC website for further information.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 310

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

B85. However, if an entity cannot objectively determine that the good or

service provided to the customer is in accordance with the agreed-upon

specifications in the contract, then the entity would not be able to conclude

that the customer has obtained control until the entity receives the

customer’s acceptance. That is because in that circumstance the entity

cannot determine that the customer has the ability to direct the use of, and

obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from, the good or service.

B86. If an entity delivers products to a customer for trial or evaluation

purposes and the customer is not committed to pay any consideration until

the trial period lapses, control of the product is not transferred to the

customer until either the customer accepts the product or the trial period

lapses.

Some acceptance provisions may be straightforward, giving a customer the

ability to accept or reject the transferred products based on objective criteria

specified in the contract (e.g., the goods function at a specified speed). Other

acceptance clauses may be subjective or may appear in parts of the contract

that do not typically address acceptance matters, such as warranty provisions or

indemnification clauses. Professional judgement may be required to determine

the effect on revenue recognition of the latter types of acceptance clauses.

Acceptance criteria that an entity cannot objectively evaluate against the agreed-

upon specifications in the contract preclude an entity from concluding that

a customer has obtained control of a good or service until formal customer sign-

off is obtained or the acceptance provisions lapse. However, the entity would

consider its experience with other contracts for similar goods or services

because that experience may provide evidence about whether the entity is

able to objectively determine that a good or service provided to the customer

is in accordance with the agreed-upon specifications in the contract. We believe

one or more of the following would represent circumstances in which the entity

may not be able to objectively evaluate the acceptance criteria:

• The acceptance provisions are unusual or ‘non-standard’. Indicators of ‘non-

standard’ acceptance terms are:

• The duration of the acceptance period is longer than in contracts for

similar goods or services.

• The majority of the entity’s contracts lack similar acceptance terms.

• The contract contains explicit customer-specified requirements that

must be met prior to acceptance.

•

The contract contains a requirement for explicit notification of acceptance

(not just deemed acceptance). Explicit notification requirements may

indicate that the criteria with which the customer is assessing compliance

are not objective. In addition, such explicit notification clauses may limit

the time period within which the customer can reject transferred products

and may require the customer to provide, in writing, the reasons for the

rejection of the products by the end of a specified period. When such

clauses exist, acceptance can be deemed to have occurred at the end of

the specified time period if notification of rejection has not been received

from the customer, as long as the customer has not indicated it will reject

the products.

311 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

In determining whether compliance with the criteria for acceptance can be

objectively assessed (and acceptance is only a formality), the following should

be considered:

• Whether the acceptance terms are standard in arrangements entered into

by the entity.

• Whether the acceptance is based on the transferred product performing to

standard, published, specifications and whether the entity can demonstrate

that it has an established history of objectively determining that the product

functions in accordance with those specifications.

As discussed above, customer acceptance should not be deemed a formality if the

acceptance terms are unusual or non-standard. If a contract contains acceptance

provisions that are based on customer-specified criteria, it may be difficult for

the entity to objectively assess compliance with the criteria and the entity

may not be able to recognise revenue prior to obtaining evidence of customer

acceptance. However, determining that the acceptance criteria have been met

(and, therefore, acceptance is merely a formality) may be appropriate if the

entity can demonstrate that its product meets all of the customer’s acceptance

specifications by replicating, before shipment, those conditions under which

the customer intends to use the product.

If it is reasonable to expect that the product’s performance (once it has been

installed and is operating at the customer’s facility) will be different from the

performance when it was tested prior to shipment, this acceptance provision will

not have been met. The entity, therefore, would not be able to conclude that

the customer has obtained control until customer acceptance occurs. Factors

indicating that specifications cannot be tested effectively prior to shipment

include:

• The customer has unique equipment, software or environmental conditions

that can reasonably be expected to make performance in that customer’s

environment different from testing performed by the entity. If the contract

includes customer acceptance criteria or specifications that cannot be

effectively tested before delivery or installation at the customer's site,

revenue recognition would be deferred until it can be demonstrated that

the criteria are met.

• The products that are transferred are highly complex.

• The entity has a limited history of testing products prior to control

transferring to the customer or a limited history of having customers accept

products that it has previously tested.

Determining when a customer obtains control of an asset in a contract with

customer-specified acceptance criteria requires the use of professional judgement

and depends on the weight of the evidence in the particular circumstances. The

conclusion could change based on an analysis of an individual factor, such as

the complexity of the equipment, the nature of the interface with the customer's

environment, the extent of the entity’s experience with this type of transaction

or a particular clause in the agreement. An entity may need to discuss the

situation with knowledgeable project managers or engineers in making such

an assessment.

In addition, each contract containing customer-specified acceptance criteria may

require a separate compliance assessment of whether the acceptance provisions

have been met prior to confirmation of the customer’s acceptance. That is, since

different customers may specify different acceptance criteria, an entity may not

be able to make one compliance assessment that applies to all contracts because

of the variations in contractual terms and customer environments.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 312

Even if a contract includes a standard acceptance clause, if the clause relates to a

new product or one that has only been sold on a limited basis previously, an entity

may be required to initially defer revenue recognition for the product until it

establishes a history of successfully obtaining acceptance.

IFRS 15.B86 states that, if an entity delivers products to a customer for trial or

evaluation purposes and the customer is not committed to pay any consideration

until the trial period lapses, control of the product is not transferred to the

customer until either the customer accepts the product or the trial period lapses.

See further discussion of ’free’ trial periods in Question 3-2 in section 3.1,

including when such arrangements may meet the criteria to be considered a

contract within the scope of the model in IFRS 15.

7.3 Repurchase agreements

Some agreements include repurchase provisions, either as part of a sales

contract or as a separate contract that relates to the goods in the original

agreement or similar goods. These provisions affect how an entity applies

the requirements on control to affected transactions.

The standard clarifies the types of arrangements that qualify as repurchase

agreements:

Extract from IFRS 15

B64. A repurchase agreement is a contract in which an entity sells an asset

and also promises or has the option (either in the same contract or in another

contract) to repurchase the asset. The repurchased asset may be the asset

that was originally sold to the customer, an asset that is substantially the

same as that asset, or another asset of which the asset that was originally

sold is a component.

B65. Repurchase agreements generally come in three forms:

(a) an entity’s obligation to repurchase the asset (a forward);

(b) an entity’s right to repurchase the asset (a call option); and

(a put option).

In order for an obligation or right to purchase an asset to be accounted for as

a repurchase agreement under IFRS 15, it needs to exist at contract inception,

either as a part of the same contract or in another contract. The IASB clarified

that an entity’s subsequent decision to repurchase an asset (after transferring

control of that asset to a customer) without reference to any pre-existing

contractual right would not be accounted for as a repurchase agreement under

the standard. That is, the customer is not obliged to resell that good to the

entity as a result of the initial contract. Therefore, any subsequent decision to

repurchase the asset does not affect the customer’s ability to control the asset

upon initial transfer. However, in cases in which an entity decides to repurchase

a good after transferring control of the good to a customer, the Board observed

that the entity should carefully consider whether the customer obtained control

in the initial transaction. Furthermore, it may need to consider the application

guidance on principal versus agent considerations (see section 4.4).

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7.3.1 Forward or call option held by the entity (updated September 2019)

When an entity has the obligation or right to repurchase an asset (i.e., a forward

or call option), the standard indicates that the customer has not obtained

control of the asset. The standard provides the following application guidance:

Extract from IFRS 15

B66. If an entity has an obligation or a right to repurchase the asset (a

forward or a call option), a customer does not obtain control of the asset

because the customer is limited in its ability to direct the use of, and obtain

substantially all of the remaining benefits from, the asset even though the

customer may have physical possession of the asset. Consequently, the entity

shall account for the contract as either of the following:

(a) a lease in accordance with IAS 17 Leases if the entity can or must

repurchase the asset for an amount that is less than the original selling

price of the asset; or

(b) a financing arrangement in accordance with paragraph B68 if the entity

can or must repurchase the asset for an amount that is equal to or more

than the original selling price of the asset.

B67. When comparing the repurchase price with the selling price, an entity

shall consider the time value of money.

The application guidance, in the extract above, requires that an entity account

for a transaction including a forward or a call option based on the relationship

between the repurchase price and the original selling price. The standard

indicates that if the entity has the right or obligation to repurchase the asset

at a price less than the original sales price (taking into consideration the effects

of the time value of money), the entity would account for the transaction as

a lease in accordance with IAS 17 (or IFRS 16, when adopted), unless the

contract is part of a sale and leaseback transaction. For additional information

on lease accounting under IFRS 16, see our publication,

Applying IFRS

A closer

look at the new leases standard

328

If the entity has the right or obligation to

repurchase the asset at a price equal to or greater than the original sales price

(considering the effects of the time value of money) or if the contract is part of

a sale and leaseback transaction, the entity would account for the contract as

a financing arrangement, as discussed below.

The following graphic depicts this application guidance for transactions that are

not sale and leaseback transactions:

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Latest version of this publication is available at ey.com/IFRS.

Repurchase price < Original selling price = Lease

Repurchase price

≥

Original selling price = Financing

Forward or call option

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 314

Under the standard, a transaction with a seller option to repurchase the product

is treated as a lease or a financing arrangement (i.e., not a sale). This is because

the customer does not have control of the product and is constrained in its ability

to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from

the good. The Board noted in the Basis for Conclusions that entities would not

need to consider the likelihood that a call option will be exercised in determining

the accounting for the repurchase provision. However, the Board also stated that

non-substantive call options are ignored and would not affect when a customer

obtains control of an asset.

329

See Question 7-22 below for how an entity might

consider conditional call options and an example of a conditional call option that

may qualify to be treated as a sale.

In the Basis for Conclusions, the Board also observed that, “Theoretically,

a customer is not constrained in its ability to direct the use of and obtain

substantially all of the benefits from, the asset if an entity agrees to repurchase,

at the prevailing market price, an asset from the customer that is substantially

the same and is readily available in the marketplace.”

330

That is, in such a

situation, a customer could sell the original asset (thereby exhibiting control

over it) and then re-obtain a similar asset in the market place prior to the asset

being repurchased by the entity.

If a transaction is considered a financing arrangement under the IFRS 15, the

selling entity continues to recognise the asset. In addition, it records a financial

liability for the consideration received from the customer. The difference

between the consideration received from the customer and the consideration

subsequently paid to the customer (upon repurchasing the asset) represents

the interest and holding costs (as applicable) that are recognised over the

term of the financing arrangement. If the option lapses unexercised, the

entity derecognises the liability and recognises revenue at that time.

Also note that when effective, IFRS 16 will consequentially amend IFRS 15.B66(a)

to specify that, if the contract is part of a sale and leaseback transaction, the

entity continues to recognise the asset. Furthermore, the entity recognises

a financial liability for any consideration received from the customer to which

IFRS 9 would apply.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

Consistent with the legacy requirements in IFRS, the standard requires

an entity to consider a repurchase agreement together with the original

sales agreement when they are linked in such a way that the substance of

the arrangement cannot be understood without reference to the series of

transactions as a whole.

331

Therefore, for most entities, the requirement to

consider the two transactions together was not a change.

The requirement in the standard to distinguish between repurchase agreements

that are, in substance, leases or financing arrangements is broadly consistent

with legacy IFRS. IAS 18 indicated that “the terms of the agreement need to be

analysed to ascertain whether, in substance, the seller has transferred the risks

and rewards of ownership to the buyer.”

332

However, IAS 18 did not specify how to treat repurchase agreements that

represent financing arrangements, except to state that such arrangements did

not give rise to revenue. Therefore, the requirements in IFRS 15 may have

resulted in a significant change in practice for some entities.

329

IFRS 15.BC427.

330

IFRS 15.BC425.

331

IAS 18.13 and SIC-27.

332

IAS 18.IE5.

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How we see it

Entities may find the requirements challenging to apply in practice as the

standard treats all forwards and call options the same way and does not

consider the likelihood that they will be exercised. In addition, since the

standard provides lease requirements, it is important for entities to

understand the interaction between the lease and revenue standards.

The standard provides the following example of a call option:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 62 — Repurchase agreements (IFRS 15.IE315-IE318)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer for the sale of a tangible

asset on 1 January 20X7 for CU1 million.

Case A—Call option: financing

The contract includes a call option that gives the entity the right to

repurchase the asset for CU1.1 million on or before 31 December 20X7.

Control of the asset does not transfer to the customer on 1 January 20X7

because the entity has a right to repurchase the asset and therefore the

customer is limited in its ability to direct the use of, and obtain substantially

all of the remaining benefits from, the asset. Consequently, in accordance

with paragraph B66(b) of IFRS 15, the entity accounts for the transaction as

a financing arrangement, because the exercise price is more than the original

selling price. In accordance with paragraph B68 of IFRS 15, the entity does

not derecognise the asset and instead recognises the cash received as

a financial liability. The entity also recognises interest expense for the

difference between the exercise price (CU1.1 million) and the cash received

(CU1 million), which increases the liability.

On 31 December 20X7, the option lapses unexercised; therefore, the entity

derecognises the liability and recognises revenue of CU1.1 million.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 316

Frequently asked questions

Question 7-22: How can an entity evaluate a conditional call option to

repurchase an asset?

The standard does not specifically address conditional call options. We

believe that if the entity controls the outcome of the condition that causes

the forward or call option to become active, then the presence of the call

option indicates that control has not transferred because the customer is

limited in its ability to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of the

remaining benefits from the asset. That is, the entity would be required to

treat the contract as a lease or a financing arrangement as required by

IFRS 15.B66.

We also believe that if the entity does not control the condition that causes

the call option to become active, then it would be acceptable for the entity to

apply judgement to determine whether the call option limits the customer’s

ability to direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining

benefits from, the asset. For example, if neither the entity nor the customer

controls the outcome of the contingency, the entity could evaluate the

nature of the contingency, together with the likelihood of the contingency

becoming active, to determine whether it limits the customer’s ability to

obtain control of the asset.

Furthermore, we believe that if the customer controls the outcome of the

contingency, then the conditional call option may not prevent the customer

from obtaining control of the asset if the customer can direct the use of, and

obtain substantially all the remaining benefits from, the asset. The

application guidance in IFRS 15.B70-B76 may be helpful for an entity to

consider when determining whether the customer obtains control of the

asset when it controls the outcome of the contingency.

In the case of perishable products, we believe that an entity’s conditional

right to remove and replace expired goods does not necessarily constrain

the customer’s ability to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of

the remaining benefits from the products. That is, the entity is not able

to remove and replace the products until they expire. Furthermore,

the customer has control of the products over their entire useful life.

Consequently, it may be reasonable for an entity to conclude that control of

the initial product does transfer to the customer in this situation and that an

entity could consider this right to be a form of a right of return (see

section 5.4).

7.3.2 Put option held by the customer

IFRS 15 indicates that if the customer has the ability to require an entity to

repurchase an asset (i.e., a put option) at a price lower than its original selling

price, the entity considers, at contract inception, whether the customer has a

significant economic incentive to exercise that right. That is, this determination

influences whether the customer truly has control over the asset received.

The determination of whether an entity has a significant economic incentive to

exercise its right determines whether the arrangement is treated as a lease or

a sale with the right of return (discussed in section 5.4). An entity must consider

all relevant facts and circumstances to determine whether a customer has a

significant economic incentive to exercise its right, including the relationship

between the repurchase price to the expected market value (taking into

consideration the effects of the time value of money) of the asset at the date of

repurchase and the amount of time until the right expires. The standard notes

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that if the repurchase price is expected to significantly exceed the market value

of the asset, the customer has a significant economic incentive to exercise the

put option:

• If a customer has a significant economic incentive to exercise its right, the

customer is expected to ultimately return the asset. The entity accounts

for the agreement as a lease because the customer is effectively paying

the entity for the right to use the asset for a period of time. However, one

exception to this would be if the contract is part of a sale and leaseback,

in which case, the contract would be accounted for as a financing

arrangement. Note that, when effective, IFRS 16 will consequentially

amend IFRS 15.B70 to specify that, if the contract is part of a sale and

leaseback transaction, the entity continues to recognise the asset.

Furthermore, the entity recognises a financial liability for any consideration

received from the customer to which IFRS 9 would apply.

• If a customer does not have a significant economic incentive to exercise its

right, the entity accounts for the agreement in a manner similar to a sale

of a product with a right of return.

The repurchase price of an asset that is equal to or greater than the original

selling price, but less than or equal to the expected market value of the asset,

must also be accounted for as a sale of a product with a right of return, if the

customer does not have a significant economic incentive to exercise its right.

See section 5.4 for a discussion on sales with a right of return.

If the customer has the ability to require an entity to repurchase the asset at a

price equal to, or more than, the original selling price and the repurchase price

is more than the expected market value of the asset, the contract is in effect

a financing arrangement.

If the option lapses unexercised, an entity derecognises the liability and

recognises revenue.

The following graphic depicts this application guidance:

How we see it

IFRS 15 provides application guidance in respect of written put options

where there was limited guidance under legacy IFRS. However, IFRS 15

does not provide any guidance on determining whether ‘a significant

economic incentive’ exists and judgement may be required to make

this determination.

Put option

Repurchase

price

Original selling

price

Significant economic

incentive to

exercise?

Sale with a

right of return

Lease

Yes

Repurchase

price

Original selling

price

≥

and

Repurchase

price

Expected

market

value

of asset

Financing

Repurchase

price

Original

selling price

≥

and

Repurchase

price

Expected

market value

of asset

≤

Sale with

a right of

return

and

No significant

economic

incentive to

exercise

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 318

The standard provides the following example of a put option:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 62 — Repurchase agreements (IFRS 15.IE315, IE319-IE321)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer for the sale of a tangible

asset on 1 January 20X7 for CU1 million.

Case B—Put option: lease

Instead of having a call option, the contract includes a put option that obliges

the entity to repurchase the asset at the customer’s request for CU900,000

on or before 31 December 20X7. The market value is expected to be

CU750,000 on 31 December 20X7.

At the inception of the contract, the entity assesses whether the customer

has a significant economic incentive to exercise the put option, to determine

the accounting for the transfer of the asset (see paragraphs B70–B76 of

IFRS 15). The entity concludes that the customer has a significant economic

incentive to exercise the put option because the repurchase price significantly

exceeds the expected market value of the asset at the date of repurchase.

The entity determines there are no other relevant factors to consider when

assessing whether the customer has a significant economic incentive to

exercise the put option. Consequently, the entity concludes that control of

the asset does not transfer to the customer, because the customer is limited

in its ability to direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining

benefits from, the asset.

In accordance with paragraphs B70–B71 of IFRS 15, the entity accounts for

the transaction as a lease in accordance with IAS 17 Leases.

7.3.3 Sales with residual value guarantees

An entity that sells equipment may use a sales incentive programme under

which it guarantees that the customer will receive a minimum resale amount

when it disposes of the equipment (i.e., a residual value guarantee). If the

customer holds a put option and has a significant economic incentive to

exercise, the customer is effectively restricted in its ability to consume, modify

or sell the asset. In contrast, when the entity guarantees that the customer will

receive a minimum amount of sales proceeds, the customer is not constrained

in its ability to direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the benefits from,

the asset. Accordingly, the Board decided that it was not necessary to expand

the application guidance on repurchase agreements to consider guaranteed

amounts of resale.

333

Therefore, it is important for an entity to review all its contracts and

make sure that the residual value guarantee is not accomplished through

a repurchase provision, such as a put within the contract (e.g., the customer

has the right to require the entity to repurchase equipment two years after

the date of purchase at 85% of the original purchase price). If a put option is

present, the entity would have to use the application guidance in the standard

discussed in section 7.3.2 to determine whether the existence of the put option

precludes the customer from obtaining control of the acquired item. In such

circumstances, the entity would determine whether the customer has a

significant economic incentive to exercise the put. If the entity concludes that

there is no significant economic incentive, the transaction would be accounted

for as a sale with a right of return. Alternatively, if the entity concludes there is

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319 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

a significant economic incentive for the customer to exercise its right, the

transaction would be accounted for as a lease.

However, assume the transaction includes a residual value guarantee in which

no put option is present. If the entity guarantees that it will compensate the

customer (or ‘make whole’) on a qualifying future sale if the customer receives

less than 85% of the initial sale price, the application guidance on repurchase

agreements in IFRS 15 would not apply. That is because the entity is not

repurchasing the asset.

In such situations, judgement is needed to determine the appropriate

accounting treatment, which will depend on the specific facts and

circumstances. In some cases, an entity may need to consider the requirements

of other IFRSs to appropriately account for the residual value guarantee. In

other situations, IFRS 15 may apply to the entire transaction. If IFRS 15 applies,

an entity would need to assess whether the guarantee affects control of the

asset transferring, which will depend on the promise to the customer. In some

cases, it may not affect the transfer of control. In the Basis for Conclusions,

the Board noted that ”when the entity guarantees that the customer will receive

a minimum amount of sales proceeds, the customer is not constrained in its

ability to direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the benefits from,

the asset.”

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However, while a residual value guarantee may not affect the

transfer of control, an entity would need to consider whether it affects the

transaction price (see section 5). While the economics of a repurchase

agreement and a residual value guarantee may be similar, the accounting

could be quite different.

7.4 Consignment arrangements (updated October 2018)

Entities frequently deliver inventory on a consignment basis to other parties

(e.g., distributor, dealer). A consignment sale is one in which physical delivery

of a product to a counterparty has occurred, but the counterparty is not

required to pay until the product is either resold to an end customer or used

by the counterparty. Under such arrangements, the seller (or consignor) retains

the legal title to the merchandise and the counterparty (or consignee) acts as

a selling agent. The consignee earns a commission on the products that

have been sold and periodically remits the cash from those sales, net of the

commission it has earned, to the consignor. In addition, consigned products that

are not sold or used generally can be returned to the consignor. By shipping on

a consignment basis, consignors are better able to market products by moving

them closer to the end-customer. However, they do so without selling the goods

to the intermediary (consignee).

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The standard provides the following application guidance for determining

whether an arrangement is a consignment arrangement:

Extract from IFRS 15

B78. Indicators that an arrangement is a consignment arrangement include,

but are not limited to, the following:

(a) the product is controlled by the entity until a specified event occurs,

such as the sale of the product to a customer of the dealer or until

a specified period expires;

(b) the entity is able to require the return of the product or transfer

the product to a third party (such as another dealer); and

the product (although it might be required to pay a deposit).

Entities entering into a consignment arrangement need to determine the nature

of the performance obligation (i.e., whether the obligation is to transfer the

product to the consignee or to transfer the product to the end-customer). This

determination would be based on whether control of the product passes to the

consignee. Typically, a consignor does not relinquish control of the consigned

product until the product is sold to the end-customer or, in some cases, when

a specified period expires. Consignees commonly do not have any obligation to

pay for the product, other than to pay the consignor the agreed-upon portion of

the sale price once the consignee sells the product to a third party. As a result,

for consignment arrangements, revenue generally would not be recognised

when the products are delivered to the consignee because control has not

transferred (i.e., the performance obligation to deliver goods to the end-

customer has not yet been satisfied).

While some transactions are clearly identified as consignment arrangements,

there are other less transparent transactions, in which the seller has retained

control of the goods, despite no longer having physical possession. Such

arrangements may include the shipment of products to distributors that are

not required (either explicitly or implicitly), or do not have the wherewithal,

to pay for the product until it is sold to the end-customer. Judgement is

necessary in assessing whether the substance of a transaction is a consignment

arrangement. The identification of such arrangements often requires a careful

analysis of the facts and circumstances of the transaction, as well as an

understanding of the rights and obligations of the parties and the seller’s

customary business practices in such arrangements. While not required by

IFRS 15 or IAS 2, we would encourage entities to separately disclose the

amount of their consigned inventory, if material.

7.5 Bill-and-hold arrangements (updated October 2018)

In some sales transactions, the selling entity fulfils its obligations and bills the

customer for the work performed, but does not ship the goods until a later date.

These transactions, often called bill-and-hold transactions, are usually designed

this way at the request of the purchaser for a number of reasons, including

its lack of storage capacity or its inability to use the goods until a later date.

Whereas in a consignment sale (discussed above in section 7.4), physical

delivery has occurred, but control of the goods has not transferred to

the customer, the opposite may be true in a bill-and-hold transaction.

321 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

The criteria for determining whether a bill-and-hold transaction qualifies for

revenue recognition under the standard are similar to legacy IFRS.

335

However,

consideration of a separate custodial performance obligation (as discussed

in IFRS 15.B80) may be new to IFRS preparers, as this was not addressed in

IAS 18.

The standard provides the following application guidance with respect to these

arrangements:

Extract from IFRS 15

B79. A bill-and-hold arrangement is a contract under which an entity bills

a customer for a product but the entity retains physical possession of the

product until it is transferred to the customer at a point in time in the future.

For example, a customer may request an entity to enter into such a contract

because of the customer’s lack of available space for the product or because

of delays in the customer’s production schedules.

B80. An entity shall determine when it has satisfied its performance

obligation to transfer a product by evaluating when a customer obtains

control of that product (see paragraph 38). For some contracts, control

is transferred either when the product is delivered to the customer’s site

or when the product is shipped, depending on the terms of the contract

(including delivery and shipping terms). However, for some contracts, a

customer may obtain control of a product even though that product remains

in an entity’s physical possession. In that case, the customer has the ability

to direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits

from, the product even though it has decided not to exercise its right to take

physical possession of that product. Consequently, the entity does not control

the product. Instead, the entity provides custodial services to the customer

over the customer’s asset.

B81. In addition to applying the requirements in paragraph 38, for a

customer to have obtained control of a product in a bill-and-hold

arrangement, all of the following criteria must be met:

(a) the reason for the bill-and-hold arrangement must be substantive (for

example, the customer has requested the arrangement);

(b) the product must be identified separately as belonging to the customer;

customer; and

(d) the entity cannot have the ability to use the product or to direct it to

another customer.

B82. If an entity recognises revenue for the sale of a product on a bill-

and-hold basis, the entity shall consider whether it has remaining

performance obligations (for example, for custodial services) in

accordance with paragraphs 22–30 to which the entity shall allocate

a portion of the transaction price in accordance with paragraphs 73–86.

335

IAS 18.IE1.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 322

When evaluating whether revenue recognition is appropriate for a bill-and-

hold transaction, an entity must evaluate the application guidance in both

IFRS 15.38 (to determine whether control has been transferred to the

customer) and IFRS 15.B81 (to determine whether all four bill-and-hold

criteria are met). The criteria that must be met are:

•

The reason for the bill-and-hold arrangement must be substantive (e.g., the

customer has requested the arrangement).

A bill-and-hold transaction

initiated by the selling entity typically indicates that a bill-and-hold

arrangement is not substantive. We would generally expect the customer

to request such an arrangement and the selling entity would need to

evaluate the reasons for the request to determine whether the customer

has a substantive business purpose. Judgement is required when assessing

this criterion. For example, a customer with an established buying history

that places an order in excess of its normal volume and requests that the

entity retains the product needs to be evaluated carefully because the

request may not appear to have a substantive business purpose.

• The product must be identified separately as belonging to the customer.

Even if the entity’s inventory is homogenous, the customer’s product must

be segregated from the entity’s ongoing fulfilment operations.

• The product currently must be ready for physical transfer to the customer.

In any revenue transaction recognised at a point in time, revenue is

recognised when an entity has satisfied its performance obligation to

transfer control of the product to the customer. If an entity has remaining

costs or effort to develop, manufacture or refine the product, the entity

may not have satisfied its performance obligation. This criterion does

not include the actual costs to deliver a product, which would be normal

and customary in most revenue transactions, or if the entity identifies a

separate performance obligation for custodial services, as discussed below.

• The entity cannot have the ability to use the product or to direct it to

another customer. If the entity has the ability to freely substitute goods to

fill other orders, control of the goods has not passed to the buyer. That is,

the entity has retained the right to use the customer’s product in a manner

that best suits the entity.

If an entity concludes that it can recognise revenue for a bill-and-hold

transaction, IFRS 15.B82 states that the entity needs to further consider

whether it is also providing custodial services for the customer that would

be identified as a separate performance obligation in the contract.

As discussed in Question 7-21 in section 7.2, certain entities may use

an Ex Works Incoterm in contracts with customers. Under an Ex Works

arrangement, the entity's responsibility is to make ordered goods available to

the customer at the entity’s premises or another named location. The customer

is responsible for arranging, and paying for, shipment of the goods to the

desired location and bears all of the risks related to them once they are made

available.

We believe that all Ex Works arrangements need to be evaluated using the bill-

and-hold criteria discussed above to determine whether revenue recognition is

appropriate prior to shipment.

323 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The standard provides the following example to illustrate the application

guidance on bill-and-hold arrangements:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 63 — Bill-and-hold arrangement (IFRS 15.IE323-IE327)

An entity enters into a contract with a customer on 1 January 20X8 for

the sale of a machine and spare parts. The manufacturing lead time for

the machine and spare parts is two years.

Upon completion of manufacturing, the entity demonstrates that the machine

and spare parts meet the agreed-upon specifications in the contract. The

promises to transfer the machine and spare parts are distinct and result in

two performance obligations that each will be satisfied at a point in time. On

31 December 20X9, the customer pays for the machine and spare parts,

but only takes physical possession of the machine. Although the customer

inspects and accepts the spare parts, the customer requests that the spare

parts be stored at the entity’s warehouse because of its close proximity to

the customer’s factory. The customer has legal title to the spare parts and

the parts can be identified as belonging to the customer.

Furthermore, the entity stores the spare parts in a separate section of its

warehouse and the parts are ready for immediate shipment at the customer’s

request. The entity expects to hold the spare parts for two to four years and

the entity does not have the ability to use the spare parts or direct them to

another customer.

The entity identifies the promise to provide custodial services as a

performance obligation because it is a service provided to the customer and

it is distinct from the machine and spare parts. Consequently, the entity

accounts for three performance obligations in the contract (the promises

to provide the machine, the spare parts and the custodial services). The

transaction price is allocated to the three performance obligations and

revenue is recognised when (or as) control transfers to the customer.

Control of the machine transfers to the customer on 31 December 20X9

when the customer takes physical possession. The entity assesses the

indicators in paragraph 38 of IFRS 15 to determine the point in time at which

control of the spare parts transfers to the customer, noting that the entity

has received payment, the customer has legal title to the spare parts and

the customer has inspected and accepted the spare parts. In addition, the

entity concludes that all of the criteria in paragraph B81 of IFRS 15 are

met, which is necessary for the entity to recognise revenue in a bill-and-

hold arrangement. The entity recognises revenue for the spare parts on

31 December 20X9 when control transfers to the customer.

The performance obligation to provide custodial services is satisfied

over time as the services are provided. The entity considers whether the

payment terms include a significant financing component in accordance

with paragraphs 60–65 of IFRS 15.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 324

7.6 Recognising revenue for licences of intellectual property

IFRS 15 provides application guidance for recognising revenue from licences

of intellectual property that differs in some respects from the general

requirements for other promised goods or services. We discuss licensing

in detail in section 8.

7.7 Recognising revenue when a right of return exists

As discussed in section 4.7, a right of return does not represent a separate

performance obligation. Instead, the existence of a right of return affects

the transaction price and the entity must determine whether the customer

will return the transferred product.

Under IFRS 15, as discussed in section 5, an entity estimates the transaction

price and applies the constraint to the estimated transaction price. In doing so,

it considers the products expected to be returned in order to determine the

amount to which the entity expects to be entitled (excluding consideration for

the products expected to be returned). The entity recognises revenue based

on the amounts to which the entity expects to be entitled through to the end

of the return period (considering expected product returns). An entity does not

recognise the portion of the revenue that is subject to the constraint until the

amount is no longer constrained, which could be at the end of the return period

or earlier if the entity’s expectations about the products expected to be

returned change prior to the end of the return period. The entity recognises the

amount received or receivable that is expected to be returned as a refund

liability, representing its obligation to return the customer’s consideration.

An entity also updates its estimates at the end of each reporting period. See

sections 4.7 and 5.4.1 for further discussion on this topic.

7.8 Recognising revenue for customer options for additional

goods or services

As discussed in section 4.6, when an entity grants a customer the option to

acquire additional goods or services, that option is a separate performance

obligation if it provides a material right to the customer that the customer

would not receive without entering into the contract (e.g., a discount that

exceeds the range of discounts typically given for those goods or services

to that class of customer in that geographical area or market). If the option

provides a material right to the customer, the customer has, in effect, paid

the entity in advance for future goods or services. IFRS 15 requires the entity

to allocate a portion of the transaction price to the material right at contract

inception (see section 6.1.5). The revenue allocated to the material right is

recognised when (or as) the option is exercised (and the underlying future

goods or services are transferred) or when the option expires.

In contrast, if a customer option is not deemed to be a material right and is

instead a marketing offer, the entity does not account for the option and waits

to account for the underlying goods or services until those subsequent

purchases occur.

Frequently asked questions

Question 7-23: How would an entity account for the exercise of a material

right? That is, would an entity account for it as: a contract modification,

a continuation of the existing contract or variable consideration? [TRG

meeting 30 March 2015 - Agenda paper no. 32]

See response to Question 4-18 in section 4.6.

325 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

7.9 Breakage and prepayments for future goods or services

(updated October 2018)

In certain industries, an entity collects non-refundable payments from its

customers for goods or services that the customer has a right to receive in the

future. However, a customer may ultimately leave that right unexercised (often

referred to as ‘breakage’). Retailers, for example, frequently sell gift cards that

may not be partially redeemed or completely redeemed and airlines sometimes

sell non-refundable tickets to passengers who allow the tickets to expire

unused.

Under IFRS 15.B44, when an entity receives consideration that is attributable

to a customer’s unexercised rights, the entity recognises a contract liability

equal to the full amount prepaid by the customer for the performance obligation

to transfer, or to stand ready to transfer, goods or services in the future. As

discussed further below, an entity derecognises that contract liability (and

recognises revenue) when it transfers those goods or services and, therefore,

satisfies its performance obligation. The Board noted that this application

guidance requires the same pattern of revenue recognition as the requirements

for customer options (see section 6.1.5).

336

However, since entities may not be required by customers to fully satisfy their

performance obligations, IFRS 15.B46 requires that when an entity expects to

be entitled to a breakage amount, the expected breakage would be recognised

as revenue in proportion to the pattern of rights exercised by the customer.

If an entity does not expect to be entitled to a breakage amount, it would not

recognise any breakage amounts as revenue until the likelihood of the customer

exercising its right becomes remote.

337

When estimating any breakage amount, an entity has to consider the constraint

on variable consideration, as discussed in section 5.2.3. That is, if it is highly

probable that a significant revenue reversal would occur for any estimated

breakage amounts, an entity would not recognise those amounts until the

breakage amounts are no longer constrained.

Entities cannot recognise estimated breakage as revenue immediately upon

receipt of prepayment from the customer. The Board noted that it rejected

such an approach because the entity has not performed under the contract.

That is, recognising revenue would not be a faithful depiction of the entity’s

performance and would understate its obligation to stand ready to provide

future goods or services.

338

This would be the case even if an entity has

historical evidence to support the view that no further performance will be

required for some portion of the customer contract(s).

Furthermore, in accordance with IFRS 15.B47, regardless of whether an entity

can demonstrate the ability to reliably estimate breakage, entities would not

estimate or recognise any amounts attributable to a customer’s unexercised

rights in income (e.g., an unused gift card balance) if the amounts are required

to be required to be remitted to another party (e.g., the government). Such

an amount is recognised as a liability.

336

IFRS 15.BC398.

337

IFRS 15.BC398.

338

IFRS 15.BC400.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 326

Consider the following example to illustrate how an entity would apply the

above application guidance to the sale of a gift card that is within the scope

of IFRS 15 (see Question 2-9 in 2.5 for further discussion):

Illustration 7-3 — Accounting for the sale of a gift card

Entity A sells a CU500 non-refundable gift card that can be redeemed at any

of its retail locations. Any unused balance is not subject to laws that require

from the entity to remit the payment to another party. When the gift card is

sold, Entity A recognises a contract liability of CU500 (i.e., the full amount

that was prepaid by the customer). No breakage is recognised as revenue

upon sale of the gift card.

Scenario A – Entity expects to be entitled to a breakage amount

Based on historical redemption rates, Entity A expects 90% of the gift card

(or CU450) to be redeemed. That is, Entity A expects breakage of 10% (or

CU50). Upon its first use, the customer redeems CU225 of the gift card. That

is, 50% of the expected redemption has occurred (i.e., CU225 redemption /

CU450 total expected redemption). Upon this redemption, Entity A

recognises revenue and reduces the contract liability by CU250. This is equal

to CU225 for the transfer of goods or services purchased by the customer,

as well as breakage of CU25 (50% redemption x CU50 breakage estimate)

that is recognised in proportion to the exercise of the customer’s rights.

Similar accounting would occur for future redemptions.

Scenario B – Entity does not expect to be entitled to a breakage amount

Based on historical redemption experiences that customers fully redeem

similar gift cards (or possibly the lack of historical experience due to

a new gift card programme that means Entity A is unable to estimate the

redemption rates), Entity A does not expect to be entitled to a breakage

amount. Upon its first use of the gift card, the customer redeems CU225.

Entity A recognises revenue and reduces the contract liability by the same

amount as the redemption (or CU225). That is, no additional amounts

are recognised for breakage. Similar accounting would occur for future

redemptions.

If no further redemptions occur, Entity A recognises the remaining gift card

balance (or CU275) as revenue (and reduces the contract liability by the

same amount) when the likelihood of the customer exercising its remaining

rights becomes remote.

As discussed above, the application guidance on breakage requires that an

entity recognise a liability for the full amount of the prepayment. Then, it

would recognise breakage on that liability proportionate to the pattern of rights

exercised by the customer. If the prepayment element (e.g., the sale of a gift

card, loyalty points) is part of a multiple-element arrangement, an entity

needs to allocate the transaction price between the identified performance

obligations. As a result, the deferred revenue associated with this element

would be less than the ‘prepaid’ amount received for the unsatisfied

performance obligations.

327 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The following example depicts the sale of goods with loyalty points. In this

example, the amount allocated to the points (i.e., the ‘prepaid’ element) is

less than the stand-alone selling price of those points because of the allocation

of the transaction price among the two performance obligations.

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 52 — Customer loyalty programme (IFRS 15.IE267-IE270)

An entity has a customer loyalty programme that rewards a customer with

one customer loyalty point for every CU10 of purchases. Each point is

redeemable for a CU1 discount on any future purchases of the entity’s

products. During a reporting period, customers purchase products for

CU100,000 and earn 10,000 points that are redeemable for future

purchases. The consideration is fixed and the stand-alone selling price of

the purchased products is CU100,000. The entity expects 9,500 points to

be redeemed. The entity estimates a stand-alone selling price of CU0.95 per

point (totalling CU9,500) on the basis of the likelihood of redemption in

accordance with paragraph B42 of IFRS 15.

The points provide a material right to customers that they would not receive

without entering into a contract. Consequently, the entity concludes that

the promise to provide points to the customer is a performance obligation.

The entity allocates the transaction price (CU100,000) to the product and

the points on a relative stand-alone selling price basis as follows:

Product

91,324

[CU100,000 × (CU100,000 stand-alone

selling price ÷ CU109,500)]

Points

8,676

[CU100,000 × (CU9,500 stand-alone selling

price ÷ CU109,500)]

At the end of the first reporting period, 4,500 points have been redeemed

and the entity continues to expect 9,500 points to be redeemed in total. The

entity recognises revenue for the loyalty points of CU4,110 [(4,500 points ÷

9,500 points) × CU8,676] and recognises a contract liability of CU4,566

(CU8,676 – CU4,110) for the unredeemed points at the end of the first

reporting period.

At the end of the second reporting period, 8,500 points have been redeemed

cumulatively. The entity updates its estimate of the points that will be

redeemed and now expects that 9,700 points will be redeemed. The entity

recognises revenue for the loyalty points of CU3,493 {[(8,500 total points

redeemed ÷ 9,700 total points expected to be redeemed) × CU8,676 initial

allocation] – CU4,110 recognised in the first reporting period}. The contract

liability balance is CU1,073 (CU8,676 initial allocation – CU7,603 of

cumulative revenue recognised).

As depicted in Example 52 above (i.e., IFRS 15.IE269-IE270), entities need

to routinely refine and evaluate estimates of gift card redemption rates.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 328

Frequently asked questions

Question 7-24: Are customers’ unexercised rights (i.e., breakage) a form of

variable consideration?

Although the breakage application guidance in IFRS 15.B46 specifically refers

to the constraint on variable consideration, we do not believe breakage is

a form of variable consideration (see section 5.2). This is because it does

not affect the transaction price. Breakage is a recognition concept (Step 5)

that could affect the timing of revenue recognition. It is not a measurement

concept (Step 3). For example, the transaction price for a sale of a CU20

gift card is fixed at CU20 regardless of the expected breakage amount. The

expected breakage, however, could affect the timing of revenue recognition

because an entity is required under IFRS 15.B46 to “recognise the expected

breakage amount as revenue in proportion to the pattern of rights exercised

by the customer” if it expects to be entitled to a breakage amount.

329 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

8. Licences of intellectual property

IFRS 15 provides application guidance for recognising revenue from licences

of intellectual property that differs in some respects from the requirements for

other promised goods or services. Given that licences include a wide array of

features and economic characteristics, the Board decided that an entity needs

to evaluate the nature of its promise to grant a licence of intellectual property

in order to determine whether the promise is satisfied (and revenue is

recognised) over time or at a point in time. A licence provides either:

•

A right to access the entity’s intellectual property throughout the licence

period, which results in revenue that is recognised over time

•

A right to use the entity’s intellectual property as it exists at the point in

time in which the licence is granted, which results in revenue that is

recognised at a point in time

IFRS 15.B52 provides examples of intellectual property that may be licensed

to a customer, including software and technology, media and entertainment

(e.g., motion pictures and music), franchises, patents, trademarks and

copyrights.

The application guidance provided on licences of intellectual property is only

applicable to licences that are distinct. When the licence is the only promised

item (either explicitly or implicitly) in the contract, the application guidance is

clearly applicable to that licence. The assessment as to whether the contract

includes a distinct licence of intellectual property may be straightforward for

many contracts. However, if there are multiple promises in a contract, entities

may have to more carefully evaluate the nature of the rights conveyed.

Licences of intellectual property are frequently included in multiple-element

arrangements with promises for additional goods or services that may be

explicit or implicit. In these situations, an entity first applies the requirements

of Step 2 of the model to determine whether the licence of intellectual property

is distinct, as discussed in section 4 and section 8.1.

For most licences that are not distinct, an entity would follow the general

requirements in Step 5 of the model to account for the recognition of revenue

for the performance obligation that includes the licence (i.e., the requirements

in IFRS 15.31-36 to determine whether the performance obligation transfers

over time or at a point in time, as discussed in sections 7.1 and 7.2).

Furthermore, the IASB noted in the Basis for Conclusions that there may

be some situations in which, even though the licence is not distinct from

the good or service transferred with the licence, the licence is the primary or

dominant component (i.e., the predominant item) of the combined performance

obligation.

339

In such situations, the IASB indicated that the application

guidance for licences still applies. The Board provided no application guidance

or bright lines for determining when a licence is the primary or dominant

component. However, the IASB referred to an example in the Basis for

Conclusions to illustrate this concept further.

340

See section 8.2.1 for

further discussion. The determination of whether a licence is the predominant

component may be obvious in some cases, but not in others. Therefore, entities

may need to exercise significant judgement and consider both qualitative and

quantitative factors.

339

IFRS 15.BC407.

340

IFRS 15.BC414X.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 330

8.1 Identifying performance obligations in a licensing

arrangement

Contracts for licences of intellectual property frequently include explicit or

implicit promises for additional goods or services (e.g., equipment, when-and-

if available upgrades, maintenance and installation). Consistent with Step 2 of

the general model (see section 4), entities need to apply the requirements

on identifying performance obligations in IFRS 15.22-30 when a contract with

a customer includes a licence of intellectual property and other promised goods

or services in order to appropriately determine whether the licence of intellectual

property and the other promises are distinct (i.e., are separate performance

obligations).

As discussed in section 4.2, the standard outlines a two-step process for

determining whether a promised good or service (including a licence of

intellectual property) is distinct and, therefore, is a performance obligation:

(a) Consideration of the individual good or service (i.e., whether the good or

service is capable of being distinct)

And

(b) Consideration of whether the good or service is separately identifiable from

other promises in the contract (i.e., whether the promise to transfer the

good or service is distinct in the context of the contract)

To conclude that a good or service is distinct, an entity needs to determine

that the good or service is both capable of being distinct and distinct in the

context of the contract. These requirements need to be applied to determine

whether a promise to grant a licence of intellectual property is distinct from

other promised goods or services in the contract. Therefore, entities are required

to assess whether the customer can benefit from a licence of intellectual

property on its own or together with readily available resources (i.e., whether

it is capable of being distinct) and whether the entity’s promise to transfer

a licence of intellectual property is separately identifiable from other promises

in the contract (i.e., whether it is distinct in the context of the contract). The

assessment of whether a licence of intellectual property is distinct needs to

be based on the facts and circumstances of each contract.

8.1.1 Licences of intellectual property that are distinct

Licences are frequently capable of being distinct (i.e., the first criteria of a distinct

good or service) as a customer can often obtain at least some benefit from

the licence of intellectual property on its own or with other readily available

resources. Consider Example 11, Case A, from the standard (extracted in

full in section 4.2.3), which includes a contract for a software licence that is

transferred along with installation services, technical support and unspecified

software updates. The installation service is routinely performed by other entities

and does not significantly modify the software. The software licence is delivered

before the other goods or services and remains functional without the updates

and technical support. The entity concludes that the customer can benefit from

each of the goods or services either on their own or together with other goods

or services that are readily available. That is, each good or service, including

the software licence, is capable of being distinct under IFRS 15.27.

If an entity determines that a licence of intellectual property and other promised

goods or services are capable of being distinct, the second step in the evaluation

is to determine whether they are distinct in the context of the contract. As part of

331 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

this evaluation, an entity considers the indicators for whether the goods or

services are not separately identifiable, including whether:

(1) The entity provides a significant service of integrating the licence and

other goods or services into a combined output or outputs.

(2) The licence and other goods or services significantly modify or customise

each other.

(3) The licence and other goods or services are highly interdependent or highly

interrelated, such that the entity would not be able to fulfil its promise to

transfer the licence independently of fulfilling its promise to transfer the

other goods or services to the customer.

Continuing with Example 11, Case A, discussed above, the entity considers the

separately identifiable principle and factors in IFRS 15.29 and determines that

the promise to transfer each good and service, including the software licence, is

separately identifiable. In reaching this determination, the entity considers that

the installation services are routine and can be obtained from other providers.

In addition, the entity considers that, although it integrates the software into

the customer's system, the software updates do not significantly affect the

customer's ability to use and benefit from the software licence during the licence

period. Therefore, neither the installation services nor the software updates

significantly affect the customer’s ability to use and benefit from the software

licence. The entity further observes that none of the promised goods or services

significantly modify or customise one another and the entity is not providing

a significant service of integrating the software and services into one combined

output. Lastly, the software and the services are not deemed to be highly

interdependent or highly interrelated because the entity would be able to fulfil

its promise to transfer the initial software licence independent from its promise to

subsequently provide the installation service, software updates and the technical

support.

The following example from the standard also illustrates a contract for which a

licence of intellectual property is determined to be distinct from other promised

goods or services:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 56 — Identifying a distinct licence (IFRS 15.IE281, IE285-IE288)

An entity, a pharmaceutical company, licenses to a customer its patent

rights to an approved drug compound for 10 years and also promises to

manufacture the drug for the customer. The drug is a mature product;

therefore the entity will not undertake any activities to support the drug,

which is consistent with its customary business practices.

Case B—Licence is distinct

In this case, the manufacturing process used to produce the drug is not

unique or specialised and several other entities can also manufacture the

drug for the customer.

The entity assesses the goods and services promised to the customer to

determine which goods and services are distinct, and it concludes that the

criteria in paragraph 27 of IFRS 15 are met for each of the licence and the

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 332

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

manufacturing service. The entity concludes that the criterion in

paragraph 27(a) of IFRS 15 is met because the customer can benefit

from the licence together with readily available resources other than the

entity's manufacturing service (because there are other entities that can

provide the manufacturing service), and can benefit from the manufacturing

service together with the licence transferred to the customer at the start

of the contract.

The entity also concludes that its promises to grant the licence and to

provide the manufacturing service are separately identifiable (ie the

criterion in paragraph 27(b) of IFRS 15 is met). The entity concludes

that the licence and the manufacturing service are not inputs to a

combined item in this contract on the basis of the principle and the

factors in paragraph 29 of IFRS 15. In reaching this conclusion, the

entity considers that the customer could separately purchase the licence

without significantly affecting its ability to benefit from the licence. Neither

the licence, nor the manufacturing service, is significantly modified or

customised by the other and the entity is not providing a significant

service of integrating those items into a combined output. The entity

further considers that the licence and the manufacturing service are not

highly interdependent or highly interrelated because the entity would be

able to fulfil its promise to transfer the licence independently of fulfilling its

promise to subsequently manufacture the drug for the customer. Similarly,

the entity would be able to manufacture the drug for the customer even

if the customer had previously obtained the licence and initially utilised

a different manufacturer. Thus, although the manufacturing service

necessarily depends on the licence in this contract (ie the entity would not

provide the manufacturing service without the customer having obtained

the licence), the licence and the manufacturing service do not significantly

affect each other. Consequently, the entity concludes that its promises to

grant the licence and to provide the manufacturing service are distinct and

that there are two performance obligations:

(a) licence of patent rights; and

(b) manufacturing service.

The entity assesses, in accordance with paragraph B58 of IFRS 15, the

nature of the entity's promise to grant the licence. The drug is a mature

product (ie it has been approved, is currently being manufactured and

has been sold commercially for the last several years). For these types

of mature products, the entity's customary business practices are not

to undertake any activities to support the drug. The drug compound has

significant stand-alone functionality (ie its ability to produce a drug that

treats a disease or condition). Consequently, the customer obtains

a substantial portion of the benefits of the drug compound from that

functionality, rather than from the entity's ongoing activities. The entity

concludes that the criteria in paragraph B58 of IFRS 15 are not met

because the contract does not require, and the customer does not

reasonably expect, the entity to undertake activities that significantly

affect the intellectual property to which the customer has rights. In its

assessment of the criteria in paragraph B58 of IFRS 15, the entity does

not take into consideration the separate performance obligation of

promising to provide

333 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

a manufacturing service. Consequently, the nature of the entity's promise

in transferring the licence is to provide a right to use the entity's intellectual

property in the form and the functionality with which it exists at the point in

time that it is granted to the customer. Consequently, the entity accounts

for the licence as a performance obligation satisfied at a point in time.

The entity applies paragraphs 31–38 of IFRS 15 to determine whether the

manufacturing service is a performance obligation satisfied at a point in time

or over time.

8.1.2 Licences of intellectual property that are not distinct

The licences of intellectual property included in the examples above were

determined to be distinct, as they met the two criteria of IFRS 15.27. In other

situations, a licence of intellectual property may not be distinct from other

promised goods or services in a contract, either because it is not capable of

being distinct and/or it is not separately identifiable.

IFRS 15.B54 requires that a licence that is not distinct from other promised

goods or services in a contract be combined into a single performance

obligation. It also identifies two examples of licences of intellectual property

that are not distinct from other goods or services, as follows:

•

A licence that is a component of, and integral to the functionality of,

a tangible good

•

A licence that the customer can benefit from, but only in conjunction

with a related service (e.g., as a result of the entity granting a licence,

the customer has access to an online service provided by the entity)

In both examples, a customer only benefits from the combined output of the

licence of intellectual property and the related good or service. Therefore, the

licence is not distinct and would be combined with those other promised goods

or services in the contract.

The standard includes other examples of licences of intellectual property that

are not distinct, which are combined with other promised goods or services

because the customer can only benefit from the licence in conjunction with a

related service (as described in IFRS 15.B54(b)). For example, Example 55 and

Example 56, Case A (extracted in full in section 8.2.1) illustrate contracts that

include licences of intellectual property that are not distinct from other goods

or services promised to the customer.

When an entity is required to bundle a licence of intellectual property with

other promised goods or services in a contract, it often needs to consider

the licensing application guidance to help determine the nature of its promise

to the customer when the licence is the predominant item in the combined

performance obligation. See section 8.2.4 for further discussion on applying

the licensing application guidance to such performance obligations.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 334

8.1.3 Contractual restrictions

Some licences contain substantive contractual restrictions on how the

customer may employ a licence. The standard explicitly states that restrictions

of time, geography or use do not affect the licensor’s determination of whether

the promise to transfer a licence is satisfied over time or at a point in time, as

follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

B62. An entity shall disregard the following factors when determining

whether a licence provides a right to access the entity's intellectual property

or a right to use the entity's intellectual property:

(a) Restrictions of time, geographical region or use—those restrictions define

the attributes of the promised licence, rather than define whether the

entity satisfies its performance obligation at a point in time or over time.

While stakeholders acknowledged that IFRS 15.B62 is clear that restrictions

of time, geographical region or use do not affect the licensor’s determination

about whether the promise to transfer a licence is satisfied over time or at

a point in time, some stakeholders thought that the standard was unclear

about whether particular types of contractual restrictions would affect the

identification of the promised goods or services in the contract. For example,

an arrangement might grant a customer a licence to a well-known television

programme or movie for a period of time (for example, three years), but the

customer might be restricted in how often it can show that licensed content

to only once per year during each of those three years. In this instance,

stakeholders thought that it may be unclear whether contractual restrictions

affect the entity’s identification of its promises in the contract (i.e., do the

airing restrictions affect whether the entity has granted one licence or three

licences?).

341

In considering this issue further, the IASB explained that contracts that include

a promise to grant a licence to a customer require an assessment of the

promises in the contract using the criteria for identifying performance

obligations, as is the case with other contracts.

342

This assessment is done

before applying the criteria to determine the nature of an entity’s promise in

granting a licence.

343

In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB further explained that they considered

Example 59 in the standard (see extract in section 8.3.2) in the context of this

issue. The entity concludes that its only performance obligation is to grant the

customer a right to use the music recording. When, where and how the right

can be used is defined by the attributes of time (i.e., two years), geographical

scope (i.e., Country A) and permitted use (i.e., in commercials). If, instead, the

entity had granted the customer rights to use the recording for two different

time periods in two geographical locations, for example, years X1–X3 in

Country A and years X2–X4 in Country B, the entity would need to use the

criteria for identifying performance obligations in IFRS 15.27–30 to determine

whether the contract included one licence that covers both countries or

separate licences for each country.

344

341

IFRS 15.BC414O.

342

IFRS 15.BC405–BC406.

343

IFRS 15.414P.

344

IFRS 15.BC414Q.

335 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Consequently, the entity considers all of the contractual terms to determine

whether the promised rights result in the transfer to the customer of one or

more licences. In making this determination, judgement is needed to distinguish

between contractual provisions that create promises to transfer rights to use

the entity’s intellectual property from contractual provisions that establish

when, where and how those rights may be used. Therefore, in the Board’s

view, the clarifications made to the requirements on identifying performance

obligations in IFRS 15.22–30 provide sufficient guidance to entities.

345

How we see it

We believe a critical part of the evaluation of contractual restrictions is

whether the lifting of a restriction at a future date requires an entity to

grant additional rights to the customer at that future date in order to fulfil

its promises under the contract. The presence of a requirement to grant

additional rights to the customer indicates that there may be multiple

performance obligations that need to be accounted for under Step 2 of

the model.

Entities may need to use significant judgement to distinguish between a single

promised licence with multiple attributes and a licence that contains multiple

promises to the customer that may be separate performance obligations.

FASB differences

ASC 606 requires that entities distinguish between contractual provisions

that define the attributes of a single promised licence (e.g., restrictions of

time, geography or use) and contractual provisions that require them to

transfer additional goods or services to customers (e.g., additional rights

to use or access intellectual property). Contractual provisions that are

attributes of a promised licence define the scope of a customer’s rights to

intellectual property and do not affect whether a performance obligation

is satisfied at a point in time or over time. Nor do they affect the number

of performance obligations in the contract.

The IASB decided not to clarify the requirements for identifying performance

obligations in a contract containing one or more licences since it had

clarified the general requirements for identifying performance obligations.

346

As a result, ASC 606 includes guidance on contractual restrictions that

differs from the requirements in IFRS 15. However, the IASB noted in

the Basis for Conclusions that, consistent with the ASC 606, an entity

needs to apply the requirements in Step 2 of the general model

on identifying performance obligations when distinguishing between

contractual provisions that create promises to transfer additional rights

from those that are merely attributes of a licence that establish when,

where and how the right may be used.

347

Under both IFRS 15 and ASC 606,

an entity may need to apply significant judgement to distinguish between

a single promised licence with multiple attributes and a licence that contains

multiple promises to the customer that may be separate performance

obligations.

345

IFRS 15.BC414P.

346

IFRS 15.BC414P.

347

IFRS 15.BC414P.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 336

8.1.4 Guarantees to defend or maintain a patent

IFRS 15 states that a guarantee to defend or maintain a patent does not

represent a performance obligation in a licensing contract. Furthermore, this

type of guarantee does not affect the licensor’s determination as to whether

the licence provides a right to access intellectual property (satisfied over time)

or a right to use intellectual property (satisfied at a point in time).

The requirements for guarantees to defend or maintain a patent are included

in the following extract from the standard:

Extract from IFRS 15

B62. An entity shall disregard the following factors when determining

whether a licence provides a right to access the entity's intellectual property

or a right to use the entity's intellectual property:

(a) …

(b) Guarantees provided by the entity that it has a valid patent to intellectual

property and that it will defend that patent from unauthorised use —

a promise to defend a patent right is not a performance obligation

because the act of defending a patent protects the value of the entity's

intellectual property assets and provides assurance to the customer that

the licence transferred meets the specifications of the licence promised

in the contract.

It is not unusual for intellectual property arrangements to include a clause

that requires a licensor to defend and maintain related patents. While patent

defence and maintenance is a continuing obligation, it is an obligation to

ensure the licensee can continue to use the intellectual property as intended,

and, as discussed above, is not a promised good or service under IFRS 15 that

should be evaluated under Step 2. However, if there are questions regarding

the validity of a patent at the time a licence arrangement is entered into,

licensors need to consider whether that component of the arrangement meets

the attributes to be considered a contract within the scope of the model (see

section 3.1).

Furthermore, as discussed above, because such a provision is to ensure that

the licensee can continue to use the intellectual property as intended, it is

similar to an assurance-type warranty discussed in section 9.1 (i.e., a warranty

that promises the customer that the delivered product is as specified in the

contract). Assurance-type warranties are not within the scope of IFRS 15

and, as stated in IFRS 15.B30, would be accounted for in accordance with

the requirements for product warranties in IAS 37.

Frequently asked questions

Question 8-1: How should entities account for modifications to licences of

intellectual property?

A licence provides a customer with a right to use or a right to access the

intellectual property of an entity. The terms of each licence of intellectual

property are defined by the contract, which establishes the customer’s rights

(e.g., period of time, area of use). We believe that when a contract that only

includes a licence of intellectual property is modified, the additional and/or

modified licence of intellectual property is distinct from the original licence

because the new and/or modified rights will always differ from those

conveyed by the original licence.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

The standard contains requirements on accounting for contract modification

(see section 3.4) and it requires that a modification in which the additional

promised goods or services are distinct be accounted for on a prospective

basis, as follows:

• The modification is accounted for as a separate contract if the additional

consideration from the modification reflects the new licence’s stand-

alone selling price in accordance with IFRS 15.20(b).

• If the additional consideration does not reflect the stand-alone selling

price of the new licence, the modification is accounted for in accordance

with IFRS 15.21(a).

For a modification accounted for as a termination of the original contract and

creation of a new contract in accordance with IFRS 15.21(a), any revenue

recognised to date under the original contract is not adjusted. At the date

of the modification, the remaining unrecognised transaction price from the

original contract (if any) and the additional transaction price from the new

contract are allocated to the remaining performance obligation(s) in the

new contract. Any revenue allocated to a performance obligation created

at the modification date for the renewal or extension of a licence would be

recognised when (or as) that performance obligation is satisfied, which may

not be until the beginning of the renewal or extension period (see

section 8.4).

8.2 Determining the nature of the entity’s promise in granting

a licence

Entities need to evaluate the nature of a promise to grant a licence of

intellectual property in order to determine whether the promise is satisfied

(and revenue is recognised) over time or at a point in time.

In order to help entities in determining whether a licence provides a customer

with a right to access or a right to use the intellectual property (which is

important when determining the period of performance and, therefore,

the timing of revenue recognition – see section 8.3), the Board provided

the following application guidance:

Extract from IFRS 15

B58. The nature of an entity’s promise in granting a licence is a promise to

provide a right to access the entity’s intellectual property if all of the

following criteria are met:

(a) the contract requires, or the customer reasonably expects, that the entity

will undertake activities that significantly affect the intellectual property

to which the customer has rights (see paragraphs B59 and B59A);

(b) the rights granted by the licence directly expose the customer to any

positive or negative effects of the entity’s activities identified in

paragraph B58(a); and

the customer as those activities occur (see paragraph 25).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 338

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

B59. Factors that may indicate that a customer could reasonably expect that

an entity will undertake activities that significantly affect the intellectual

property include the entity’s customary business practices, published policies

or specific statements. Although not determinative, the existence of a shared

economic interest (for example, a sales-based royalty) between the entity and

the customer related to the intellectual property to which the customer has

rights may also indicate that the customer could reasonably expect that the

entity will undertake such activities.

B59A. An entity’s activities significantly affect the intellectual property to

which the customer has rights when either:

(a) those activities are expected to significantly change the form (for

example, the design or content) or the functionality (for example,

the ability to perform a function or task) of the intellectual property; or

(b) the ability of the customer to obtain benefit from the intellectual property

is substantially derived from, or dependent upon, those activities. For

example, the benefit from a brand is often derived from, or dependent

upon, the entity’s ongoing activities that support or maintain the value

of the intellectual property.

Accordingly, if the intellectual property to which the customer has rights has

significant stand-alone functionality, a substantial portion of the benefit of

that intellectual property is derived from that functionality. Consequently,

the ability of the customer to obtain benefit from that intellectual property

would not be significantly affected by the entity’s activities unless those

activities significantly change its form or functionality. Types of intellectual

property that often have significant stand-alone functionality include

software, biological compounds or drug formulas, and completed media

content (for example, films, television shows and music recordings).

In providing this application guidance, the Board decided to focus on the

characteristics of a licence that provides a right to access intellectual property.

If the licensed intellectual property does not have those characteristics, it

provides a right to use intellectual property, by default. This analysis is focused

on situations in which the underlying intellectual property is subject to change

over the licence period.

The key determinants of whether the nature of an entity’s promise is a right

to access the entity’s intellectual property are whether: (1) the entity is required

to undertake activities that affect the licensed intellectual property (or the

customer has a reasonable expectation that the entity will do so); and (2) the

customer is exposed to positive or negative effects resulting from those

changes.

It is important to note that when an entity is making this assessment, it excludes

the effect of any other performance obligations in the contract. For example,

if an entity enters into a contract to license software and provide access to

any future upgrades to that software during the licence period, the entity first

determines whether the licence and the promise to provide future updates

are separate performance obligations. If they are separate, when the entity

considers whether it has a contractual (explicit or implicit) obligation to

undertake activities to change the software during the licence period, it

excludes any changes and activities associated with the performance obligation

to provide future upgrades.

339 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

While the activities considered in this assessment do not include those that

are a performance obligation, the activities can be part of an entity’s ongoing

ordinary activities and customary business practices (i.e., they do not have to

be activities the entity is undertaking specifically as a result of the contract with

the customer). In addition, the IASB noted in the Basis for Conclusions that the

existence of a shared economic interest between the parties (e.g., sales-based

or usage-based royalties) may be an indicator that the customer has a

reasonable expectation that the entity will undertake such activities.

348

After an entity has identified the activities for this assessment, it must

determine if those activities significantly affect the intellectual property to

which the customer has rights. The standard clarifies that such activities

significantly affect the intellectual property if they:

•

Significantly change the form (e.g., design or content) or functionality

(e.g., the ability to perform a function or task) of the intellectual property

•

Affect the ability of the customer to obtain benefit from the intellectual

property (e.g., the benefit from a brand is often derived from, or dependent

upon, the entity’s ongoing activities that support or maintain the value of

the intellectual property)

If the intellectual property has significant stand-alone functionality, the

standard clarifies that the customer derives a substantial portion of the benefit

of that intellectual property from that functionality. As such, “the ability of

the customer to obtain benefit from that intellectual property would not

be significantly affected by the entity’s activities unless those activities

significantly change its form or functionality.”

349

Therefore, if the intellectual

property has significant stand-alone functionality, revenue is recognised

at a point in time. Examples of types of intellectual property that may have

significant stand-alone functionality that are mentioned in the standard include

software, biological compounds or drug formulas, and completed media

content.

The IASB has not defined the term ‘significant stand-alone functionality’, but

has made clarifications to the examples in the standard to illustrate when the

intellectual property to which the customer has rights may have significant

stand-alone functionality. In some cases, it will be clear when intellectual

property has significant stand-alone functionality. If there is no significant

stand-alone functionality, the benefit to the customer might be substantially

derived from the value of the intellectual property and the entity’s activities to

support or maintain that value. The IASB noted, however, that an entity may

need to apply judgement to determine whether the intellectual property to

which the customer has rights has significant stand-alone functionality.

350

How we see it

It is important for entities that provide licences of intellectual property to

their customers to appropriately identify the performance obligations as part

of Step 2 of the model because those conclusions may directly affect their

evaluation of whether the entity’s activities significantly change the form or

functionality of the intellectual property or affect the ability of the customer

to obtain benefit from the intellectual property.

348

IFRS 15.BC413.

349

IFRS 15.B59A.

350

IFRS 15.BC414I.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 340

FASB differences

Unlike IFRS 15, ASC 606 requires entities to classify intellectual property

in one of two categories to determine the nature of the entity’s promise in

granting a licence:

(a) Functional: This intellectual property has significant stand-alone

functionality (e.g., many types of software, completed media content

such as films, television shows and music). Revenue for these licences

is recognised at the point in time when the intellectual property is

made available for the customer’s use and benefit if the functionality

is not expected to change substantively as a result of the licensor’s

ongoing activities that do not transfer another good or service to the

customer. If the functionality of the intellectual property is expected

to substantively change because of the activities of the licensor that

do not transfer promised goods or services and the customer is

contractually or practically required to use the latest version of the

intellectual property, revenue for the licence is recognised over time.

The FASB noted in its Basis for Conclusions on ASU 2016-10 that it

expects entities to meet the criteria to recognise licences of functional

intellectual property over time infrequently, if at all.

(b) Symbolic: This intellectual property does not have significant stand-

alone functionality (e.g., brands, team and trade names, character

images). The utility of symbolic intellectual property is derived from

the licensor’s ongoing or past activities (e.g., activities that support

the value of character images licensed from an animated film).

Revenue from these licences is recognised over time as the

performance obligation is satisfied (e.g., over the licence period).

The IASB and FASB agreed that their approaches generally result in

consistent answers, but the Boards acknowledged that different outcomes

may arise due to the different approaches when entities license brand

names that no longer have any related ongoing activities (e.g., the licence

to the brand name of a defunct sports team, such as the Brooklyn

Dodgers). Under the FASB’s approach, a licence of a brand name would

be classified as symbolic intellectual property and revenue would be

recognised over time, regardless of whether there are any related

ongoing activities. Under the IASB’s approach, revenue is recognised at

a point in time if there are no ongoing activities that significantly affect

the intellectual property.

351

8.2.1 Applying the licensing application guidance to a single (bundled)

performance obligation that includes a licence of intellectual property

IFRS 15 does not explicitly state that an entity needs to consider the nature of

its promise in granting a licence when applying the general revenue recognition

model to performance obligations that are comprised of both a licence (that is

not distinct) and other goods or services. However, the Board clarified in the

Basis for Conclusions that to the extent that an entity is required to combine a

licence with other promised goods or services in a single performance obligation

and the licence is the primary or dominant component (i.e., the predominant

item) of that performance obligation, the entity needs to consider the licensing

application guidance to help determine the nature of its promise to the

customer.

352

351

IFRS 15.BC414K, BC414N.

352

IFRS 15.BC407.

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If the licence is a predominant item of a single performance obligation, entities

need to consider the licensing application guidance when:

(a) Determining whether the performance obligation is satisfied over time or at

a point in time

And

(b) Selecting an appropriate method for measuring progress of that

performance obligation if it is satisfied over time

Considering the nature of an entity’s promise in granting a licence that is part of

a single combined performance obligation is not a separate step or evaluation in

the revenue model. Rather, it is part of the overall requirements in Step 5 of the

model to determine whether that single performance obligation is satisfied over

time or at a point in time and the appropriate measure of progress toward the

satisfaction, if it is satisfied over time.

The Board did not provide application guidance or bright lines for determining

when a licence is the primary or dominant (i.e., the predominant) component.

However, the IASB explained in the Basis for Conclusions that, in some

instances, not considering the nature of the entity’s promise in granting

a licence that is combined with other promised goods or services in a single

performance obligation would result in accounting that does not best reflect

the entity’s performance. For example, consider a situation where an

entity grants a 10-year licence that is not distinct from a one-year service

arrangement. The IASB noted that a distinct licence that provides access to

an entity’s intellectual property over a 10-year period could not be considered

completely satisfied before the end of the access period. The IASB observed

in that example that it is, therefore, inappropriate to conclude that a single

performance obligation that includes that licence is satisfied over the one-

year period of the service arrangement.

353

The standard includes examples that illustrate how an entity applies the

licensing application guidance to help determine the nature of a performance

obligation that includes a licence of intellectual property and other promised

goods or services.

In Example 56, Case A (extracted below), an entity licences the patent

rights for an approved drug compound to its customer and also promises

to manufacture the drug for the customer. The entity considers that no

other entity can perform the manufacturing service because of the highly

specialised nature of the manufacturing process. Therefore, the licence

cannot be purchased separately from the manufacturing service and the

customer cannot benefit from the licence on its own or with other readily

available resources (i.e., the licence and the manufacturing service are not

capable of being distinct). Accordingly, the entity’s promises to grant the

licence and to manufacture the drug are accounted for as a single performance

obligation, as follows:

353

IFRS 15.BC414X.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 342

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 56 — Identifying a distinct licence (IFRS 15.IE281-IE284)

An entity, a pharmaceutical company, licenses to a customer its patent

rights to an approved drug compound for 10 years and also promises to

manufacture the drug for the customer. The drug is a mature product;

therefore the entity will not undertake any activities to support the drug,

which is consistent with its customary business practices.

Case A—Licence is not distinct

In this case, no other entity can manufacture this drug because of the highly

specialised nature of the manufacturing process. As a result, the licence

cannot be purchased separately from the manufacturing services.

The entity assesses the goods and services promised to the customer

to determine which goods and services are distinct in accordance with

paragraph 27 of IFRS 15. The entity determines that the customer cannot

benefit from the licence without the manufacturing service; therefore, the

criterion in paragraph 27(a) of IFRS 15 is not met. Consequently, the licence

and the manufacturing service are not distinct and the entity accounts for

the licence and the manufacturing service as a single performance obligation.

The entity applies paragraphs 31–38 of IFRS 15 to determine whether the

performance obligation (ie the bundle of the licence and the manufacturing

services) is a performance obligation satisfied at a point in time or over time.

The example in the extract above (Example 56, Case A) illustrates the

importance of applying the licensing application guidance when determining

the nature of an entity’s promise in granting a licence that is combined into

a single performance obligation with other promised goods or services. That is

because the conclusion of whether a non-distinct licence provides the customer

with a right to use intellectual property or a right to access intellectual property

may have a significant effect on the timing of revenue recognition for the single

combined performance obligation. In Example 56, Case A, the entity needs

to determine the nature of its promise in granting the licence within the single

performance obligation (comprising the licence and the manufacturing service)

to appropriately apply the general principle of recognising revenue when (or as)

it satisfies its performance obligation to the customer. If the licence in this

example provided a right to use the entity’s intellectual property that on its

own would be recognised at the point in time in which control of the licence

is transferred to the customer, it is likely that the combined performance

obligation would only be fully satisfied when the manufacturing service is

complete. In contrast, if the licence provided a right to access the entity’s

intellectual property, the combined performance obligation would not be fully

satisfied until the end of the 10-year licence period, which could extend the

period of revenue recognition beyond the date when the manufacturing service

is complete.

343 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

FASB differences

ASC 606 explicitly states that an entity considers the nature of its promise

in granting a licence when applying the general revenue recognition model

to a single performance obligation that includes a licence and other goods

or services (i.e., when applying the general requirements, consistent with

those in IFRS 15.31–45, to assess whether the performance obligations are

satisfied at a point in time or over time). Consequently, when the licence is

not the predominant item in a single performance obligation, this may result

in a US GAAP preparer considering the nature of its promise in granting

a licence in a greater number of circumstances than an IFRS preparer.

354

The determination of whether a licence is the predominant component may

be obvious in some cases, but not in others. Therefore, entities may need to

exercise significant judgement and consider both qualitative and quantitative

factors.

8.3 Transfer of control of licensed intellectual property

When determining whether a licence of intellectual property transfers to

a customer (and revenue is recognised) over time or at a point in time,

the standard states that an entity provides a customer with either:

• A right to access the entity’s intellectual property throughout the licence

period for which revenue is recognised over the licence period

•

A right to use the entity’s intellectual property as it exists at the point in

time the licence is granted for which revenue is recognised at the point in

time the customer can first use and benefit from the licensed intellectual

property

The standard provides the following application guidance on the timing of

revenue recognition for right-to-access and right-to-use licences:

Extract from IFRS 15

B60. If the criteria in paragraph B58 are met, an entity shall account for the

promise to grant a licence as a performance obligation satisfied over time

because the customer will simultaneously receive and consume the benefit

from the entity's performance of providing access to its intellectual property

as the performance occurs (see paragraph 35(a)). An entity shall apply

paragraphs 39–45 to select an appropriate method to measure its progress

towards complete satisfaction of that performance obligation to provide

access.

B61. If the criteria in paragraph B58 are not met, the nature of an entity's

promise is to provide a right to use the entity's intellectual property as that

intellectual property exists (in terms of form and functionality) at the point

in time at which the licence is granted to the customer. This means that the

customer can direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining

benefits from, the licence at the point in time at which the licence transfers.

An entity shall account for the promise to provide a right to use the entity's

intellectual property as a performance obligation satisfied at a point in time.

An entity shall apply paragraph 38 to determine the point in time at which the

354

IFRS 15.BC414Y.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 344

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

licence transfers to the customer. However, revenue cannot be recognised

for a licence that provides a right to use the entity's intellectual property

before the beginning of the period during which the customer is able to use

and benefit from the licence. For example, if a software licence period begins

before an entity provides (or otherwise makes available) to the customer

a code that enables the customer to immediately use the software, the entity

would not recognise revenue before that code has been provided (or

otherwise made available).

8.3.1 Right to access (updated October 2018)

The Board concluded that a licence that provides an entity with the right

to access intellectual property is satisfied over time “because the customer

simultaneously receives and consumes the benefit from the entity’s

performance as the performance occurs”, including the related activities

undertaken by entity.

355

This conclusion is based on the determination that

when a licence is subject to change (and the customer is exposed to the positive

or negative effects of that change), the customer is not able to fully gain

control over the licence of intellectual property at any given point in time,

but rather gains control over the licence period. Entities need to apply the

general requirements in IFRS 15.39-45 to determine the appropriate method

to measure progress (see section 7.1.4) in addition to IFRS 15.B61 (i.e., the use

and benefit requirement), which is discussed below in section 8.3.3.

The standard includes the following example of a right-to-access licence:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 58 — Access to intellectual property (IFRS 15.IE297-IE302)

An entity, a creator of comic strips, licenses the use of the images and names

of its comic strip characters in three of its comic strips to a customer for

a four-year term. There are main characters involved in each of the comic

strips. However, newly created characters appear regularly and the images

of the characters evolve over time. The customer, an operator of cruise

ships, can use the entity’s characters in various ways, such as in shows or

parades, within reasonable guidelines. The contract requires the customer

to use the latest images of the characters.

In exchange for granting the licence, the entity receives a fixed payment of

CU1 million in each year of the four-year term.

In accordance with paragraph 27 of IFRS 15, the entity assesses the goods

and services promised to the customer to determine which goods and

services are distinct. The entity concludes that it has no other performance

obligations other than the promise to grant a licence. That is, the additional

activities associated with the licence do not directly transfer a good or service

to the customer because they are part of the entity’s promise to grant a

licence.

The entity assesses the nature of the entity’s promise to transfer the licence

in accordance with paragraph B58 of IFRS 15. In assessing the criteria the

entity considers the following:

(a) the customer reasonably expects (arising from the entity’s customary

business practices) that the entity will undertake activities that will

355

IFRS 15.BC414.

345 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

significantly affect the intellectual property to which the customer

has rights (ie the characters). This is because the entity’s activities

(ie development of the characters) change the form of the intellectual

property to which the customer has rights. In addition, the ability of

the customer to obtain benefit from the intellectual property to which

the customer has rights is substantially derived from, or dependent upon,

the entity’s ongoing activities (ie the publishing of the comic strip).

(b) the rights granted by the licence directly expose the customer to any

positive or negative effects of the entity’s activities because the contract

requires the customer to use the latest characters.

the rights granted by the licence, they do not transfer a good or service

to the customer as those activities occur.

Consequently, the entity concludes that the criteria in paragraph B58 of

IFRS 15 are met and that the nature of the entity’s promise to transfer

the licence is to provide the customer with access to the entity’s intellectual

property as it exists throughout the licence period. Consequently, the entity

accounts for the promised licence as a performance obligation satisfied over

time (ie the criterion in paragraph 35(a) of IFRS 15 is met).

The entity applies paragraphs 39–45 of IFRS 15 to identify the method that

best depicts its performance in the licence. Because the contract provides

the customer with unlimited use of the licensed characters for a fixed term,

the entity determines that a time-based method would be the most

appropriate measure of progress towards complete satisfaction of the

performance obligation.

Frequently asked questions

Question 8-2: Is a licence that provides a right to access intellectual

property a series of distinct goods or services that would be accounted for

as a single performance obligation?

Step 2 of the model requires an entity to identify the performance obligations

in a contract. This includes determining whether multiple distinct goods or

services would be accounted for as a single performance obligation under

the series requirement (see section 4.2.2). It is likely that many licences

that provide a right to access intellectual property may be a series of distinct

goods or services that are substantially the same and have the same pattern

of transfer to the customer (e.g., a series of distinct periods of access to

intellectual property, such as monthly access or quarterly access).

A TRG agenda paper included an example of a licence that provides a right to

access intellectual property that is accounted for as a series of distinct goods

or services.

356

In the example, a franchisor grants a licence of intellectual

property to a franchisee allowing the franchisee to use its trade name and

sell its product for a period of 10 years. As discussed in Question 4-6 in

section 4.2.2, if the nature of an entity’s promise is to provide a single service

356

TRG Agenda paper no. 39, Application of the Series Provision and Allocation of Variable

Consideration, dated 13 July 2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 346

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

for a period of time, the evaluation of whether goods or services are distinct

and substantially the same considers whether each time increment of access

to the intellectual property (e.g., hour, day) is distinct and substantially the

same. In this example, the nature of the franchisor’s promise is to provide a

right to access the intellectual property throughout the licence period. Each

time increment is distinct because the customer benefits from the right to

access each day on its own (i.e., each time increment is capable of being

distinct). In addition, each day is separately identifiable (i.e., each time

increment is distinct in the context of the contract) because: there is no

integration service provided between the days of access provided; no day

modifies or customises another; and the days of access are not highly

interdependent or highly interrelated. In addition, each distinct daily service is

substantially the same because the customer receives access to the

intellectual property each day.

If a licence meets the criteria to be accounted for as a series of distinct goods

or services, an entity needs to consider whether any variable consideration

in the contract (e.g., royalties, milestone payments) should be allocated

to the distinct periods of access, if certain allocation criteria are met. See

section 6.3 for a discussion of the variable consideration allocation exception

and section 8.5 for a discussion of the accounting for sales-based or usage-

based royalties.

8.3.2 Right to use

In contrast, when the licence represents a right to use the intellectual property

as it exists at a specific point in time, the customer gains control over that

intellectual property at the beginning of the period for which it has the right to

use the intellectual property. This timing may differ from when the licence was

granted. For example, an entity may provide a customer with the right to use

intellectual property, but indicate that right to use does not start until 30 days

after the agreement is finalised. For the purpose of determining when control

transfers for the right-to-use licence, the Board was clear that the assessment is

from the customer’s perspective (i.e., when the customer can use the licensed

intellectual property), rather than the entity’s perspective (i.e., when the entity

transfers the licence). Entities need to apply the general requirements in

IFRS 15.38 to determine the point in time that control of the licence transfers

to the customer (see section 7.2) in addition to IFRS 15.B61 (i.e., the use and

benefit requirement), which is discussed below in section 8.3.3.

347 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The standard includes the following example of a right-to-use licence:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 59 — Right to use intellectual property (IFRS 15.IE303-IE306)

An entity, a music record label, licenses to a customer a 1975 recording of a

classical symphony by a noted orchestra. The customer, a consumer products

company, has the right to use the recorded symphony in all commercials,

including television, radio and online advertisements for two years in

Country A. In exchange for providing the licence, the entity receives fixed

consideration of CU10,000 per month. The contract does not include any

other goods or services to be provided by the entity. The contract is non-

cancellable.

The entity assesses the goods and services promised to the customer to

determine which goods and services are distinct in accordance with

paragraph 27 of IFRS 15. The entity concludes that its only performance

obligation is to grant the licence. The entity determines that the term of

the licence (two years), its geographical scope (the customer’s right to use

the recording only in Country A), and the defined permitted use for the

recording (in commercials) are all attributes of the promised licence in

the contract.

In accordance with paragraph B58 of IFRS 15, the entity assesses the nature

of the entity’s promise to grant the licence. The entity does not have any

contractual or implied obligations to change the licensed recording. The

licensed recording has significant stand-alone functionality (ie the ability to

be played) and, therefore, the ability of the customer to obtain the benefits

of the recording is not substantially derived from the entity’s ongoing

activities. The entity therefore determines that the contract does not require,

and the customer does not reasonably expect, the entity to undertake

activities that significantly affect the licensed recording (ie the criterion in

paragraph B58(a) is not met). Consequently, the entity concludes that

the nature of its promise in transferring the licence is to provide the customer

with a right to use the entity’s intellectual property as it exists at the point

in time that it is granted. Therefore, the promise to grant the licence is

a performance obligation satisfied at a point in time. The entity recognises

all of the revenue at the point in time when the customer can direct the use

of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from, the licensed

intellectual property.

Because of the length of time between the entity’s performance (at the

beginning of the period) and the customer’s monthly payments over two

years (which are non-cancellable), the entity considers the requirements in

paragraphs 60–65 of IFRS 15 to determine whether a significant financing

component exists.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 348

8.3.3 Use and benefit requirement

IFRS 15 states that revenue from a right-to-use licence cannot be recognised

before the beginning of the period during which “the customer is able to

use and benefit from the licence”.

357

The IASB explained in the Basis for

Conclusions that if the customer cannot use and benefit from the licensed

intellectual property then, by definition, it does not control the licence.

358

See section 8.4 for discussion on licence renewals.

Consider an example where an entity provides a customer with a right to use its

software, but the customer requires a code before the software will function,

which the entity will not provide until 30 days after the agreement is finalised.

In this example, it is likely that the entity would conclude that control of the

licence does not transfer until 30 days after the agreement is finalised because

that is when the customer has the right to use and can benefit from the

software.

8.4 Licence renewals

As discussed in section 8.3.3 above, IFRS 15 states that revenue cannot be

recognised for a licence that provides a right to use the entity’s intellectual

property before the beginning of the period during which the customer is able

to use and benefit from the licence.

359

Some stakeholders questioned whether

IFRS 15.B61 applies to the renewal of an existing licence or whether the entity

could recognise revenue for the renewal when the parties agree to the renewal.

Therefore, TRG discussed the application of IFRS 15.B61 within the context

of renewals or extensions of existing licences.

360

The discussion at the TRG

indicated that this is an area in which judgement is needed and, therefore, this

topic was further discussed by the IASB.

361

The IASB decided that a clarification about the application of the contract

modification requirements specifically for renewals of licensing arrangements

was not necessary. The Board noted that, although some diversity may arise,

IFRS 15 provides a more extensive framework for applying judgement than

IAS 18. In addition, in making its decision, the Board also considered the wider

implications of amending IFRS 15 before its effective date.

Therefore, when an entity and a customer enter into a contract to renew (or

extend the period of) an existing licence, the entity needs to evaluate whether

the renewal or extension should be treated as a new licence or as a modification

of the existing contract. A modification would be accounted for in accordance

with the contract modifications requirements in IFRS 15.18–21 (see

section 3.4).

362

357

IFRS 15.B61.

358

IFRS 15.BC414.

359

IFRS 15.B61.

360

IFRS 15.BC414S.

361

TRG Agenda paper no. 45, Licences – Specific Application Issues About Restrictions and

Renewals, dated 9 November 2015.

362

IFRS 15.BC414T.

349 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

FASB differences

Under ASC 606, revenue related to the renewal of a licence of intellectual

property may not be recognised earlier than the beginning of the renewal

period. This is the case even if the entity provides a copy of the intellectual

property in advance or the customer has a copy of the intellectual property

from another transaction. The FASB also provided an additional example to

illustrate this point.

IFRS 15 does not include similar requirements. Therefore, the IASB noted

in the Basis for Conclusions that IFRS entities might recognise revenue for

contract renewals or extensions earlier than US GAAP entities.

363

8.5 Sales-based or usage-based royalties on licences of

intellectual property (updated October 2018)

The standard provides application guidance on the recognition of revenue

for sales-based or usage-based royalties on licences of intellectual property,

which differs from the requirements that apply to other revenue from licences.

IFRS 15 requires that royalties received in exchange for licences of intellectual

property are recognised at the later of when:

(a) The subsequent sale or usage occurs.

And

(b) The performance obligation to which some or all of the sales-based or

usage-based royalty has been allocated is satisfied (or partially satisfied).

That is, an entity recognises the royalties as revenue for such arrangements

when (or as) the customer’s subsequent sales or usage occurs, unless that

pattern of recognition accelerates revenue recognition ahead of the entity’s

satisfaction of the performance obligation to which the royalty solely or partially

relates, based on an appropriate measure of progress (see section 7.1.4).

364

The Board explained in the Basis for Conclusions that for a licence of intellectual

property for which the consideration is based on the

customer’s

subsequent

sales or usage, an entity does not recognise any revenue for the variable

amounts until the uncertainty is resolved (i.e., when a customer’s subsequent

sales or usage occurs).

365

The IASB also explained in the Basis for Conclusions that the application

guidance in IFRS 15.B63-B63B addresses the

recognition

of sales-based or

usage-based royalties received in exchange for a licence of intellectual property,

rather than when such amounts are included in the transaction price of the

contract.

366

As a result, this exception is a recognition constraint and the

constraint on variable consideration (see section 5.2.3) does not apply.

The Board said it added the royalty recognition constraint because both users

and preparers of financial statements indicated that it would not be useful for

entities to recognise a minimum amount of revenue for sales-based or usage-

based royalties received in exchange for licences of intellectual property

(following the requirements in the general model on estimating the transaction

price) because that approach would inevitably require the entity to report

significant adjustments to the amount of revenue recognised throughout the life

of the contract as a result of changes in circumstances that are not related to the

363

IFRS 15.BC414U.

364

IFRS 15.BC421I.

365

IFRS 15.BC219.

366

IFRS 15.BC421I.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 350

entity’s performance. The Board observed that this would not result in relevant

information, especially for contracts in which the sales-based or usage-based

royalties are paid over a long period of time.

367

In some contracts, a sales-based or usage-based royalty may be related to both

a licence of intellectual property and another good or service that may, or may

not, be distinct. IFRS 15.B63A requires that the royalty recognition constraint

be applied to the overall royalty stream when the sole or predominant item to

which the royalty relates is a licence of intellectual property (including when

no single licence of intellectual property is the predominant item to which the

royalty relates, but the royalty predominantly relates to two or more licences

of intellectual property in the contract).

368

That is, this application guidance

is applicable to all licences of intellectual property, regardless of whether they

have been determined to be distinct. The standard does not provide a bright line

for determining the ‘predominant’ item in a contract that includes a licence of

intellectual property. The Board acknowledged in the Basis for Conclusions

that significant judgement may be required to determine when a licence is

the predominant item to which a royalty relates. However, the judgement

for determining whether a licence is the predominant item is likely to be less

than the judgement needed to apply the general requirements for variable

consideration to such contracts.

369

It is important to note that the application guidance in IFRS 15.B63-B63B applies

only to licences of intellectual property for which some or all of the consideration

is in the form of a sales-based or usage-based royalty. The Board said in the

Basis for Conclusions that the royalty recognition constraint was structured to

apply only to a particular type of transaction (i.e., a licence of intellectual

property). Therefore, other transactions that may be economically similar would

be accounted for differently.

370

That is, entities cannot analogise to the royalty

recognition constraint for other types of transactions. For example, it cannot be

applied if consideration in a contract is in the form of a sales-based or usage-

based royalty, but there is either: (a) no licence of intellectual property; or (b) the

licence of intellectual property to which the sales-based or usage-based royalty

relates is not the predominant item in the contract (e.g., the sale of a tangible

good that includes a significant amount of intellectual property). When the

royalty recognition constraint cannot be applied, an entity follows the

requirements in the general model on estimating variable consideration and

applying the constraint on variable consideration (see section 5.2). In some

cases, it may not be obvious as to whether the arrangement is an in-substance

sale of intellectual property (i.e., a promise that is in the form of a licence, but, in

substance, has the characteristics of a sale) or a licence of intellectual property.

In such instances, entities would have to exercise judgement to determine

whether the control over the underlying intellectual property has been

transferred from the entity to the customer and therefore, has been sold.

367

IFRS 15.BC415.

368

IFRS 15.BC421G.

369

IFRS 15.BC421E.

370

IFRS 15.BC416.

351 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The following flow chart illustrates an entity’s evaluation when determining

whether the royalty recognition constraint should be applied to a royalty

stream:

* This includes situations in which no single licence is the predominant item to which the sales-

based or usage-based royalty relates, but the sales-based or usage-based royalty predominantly

relates to two or more licences in the contract.

Yes

Royalty recognition constraint

application guidance does not apply.

Royalty recognition constraint

application guidance does not apply.

The variable consideration

requirements in IFRS 15.50-59 must

be applied (see section 5.2 above).

Is the sales-based or usage-based

royalty promised in exchange for a

licence of intellectual property?

Is the licence of intellectual property

the predominant item to which the

sales-based or usage-based royalty

relates?*

Is the licence of intellectual property

the only item to which the sales-

based or usage-based

royalty relates?

Royalty recognition constraint

application guidance applies.

Royalty recognition constraint

application guidance applies.

Does the consideration in the contract include a sales-based or

usage-based royalty?

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 352

The standard provides the following example of a contract that includes two

performance obligations, including a licence that provides a right to use the

entity's intellectual property and consideration in the form of sales-based

royalties. In the example, the licence is determined to be the predominant item

to which the royalty relates:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 60 — Sales-based royalty for a licence of intellectual property

(IFRS 15.IE307-IE308)

An entity, a movie distribution company, licenses Movie XYZ to a customer.

The customer, an operator of cinemas, has the right to show the movie in

its cinemas for six weeks. Additionally, the entity has agreed to (a) provide

memorabilia from the filming to the customer for display at the customer's

cinemas before the beginning of the six-week screening period; and (b)

sponsor radio advertisements for Movie XYZ on popular radio stations in the

customer's geographical area throughout the six-week screening period. In

exchange for providing the licence and the additional promotional goods and

services, the entity will receive a portion of the operator's ticket sales for

Movie XYZ (ie variable consideration in the form of a sales-based royalty).

The entity concludes that the licence to show Movie XYZ is the predominant

item to which the sales-based royalty relates because the entity has

a reasonable expectation that the customer would ascribe significantly

more value to the licence than to the related promotional goods or services.

The entity recognises revenue from the sales-based royalty, the only

consideration to which the entity is entitled under the contract, wholly

in accordance with paragraph B63. If the licence, the memorabilia and

the advertising activities are separate performance obligations, the entity

would allocate the sales-based royalty to each performance obligation.

As illustrated in the extract above (Example 60), IFRS 15.B63B states that,

when the criteria for applying the royalty recognition constraint are applied, the

royalty stream must be accounted for entirely under the royalty recognition

constraint. That is, an entity would not split a single royalty and apply the

royalty recognition constraint to a portion of the sales-based royalty and the

general constraint requirements for variable consideration (see section 5.2.3)

to the remainder. The Board indicated in the Basis for Conclusions that it would

be more complex to account for part of a royalty under the royalty recognition

constraint and another part under the general requirements for variable

consideration and that doing so would not provide any additional useful

information to users of financial statements. This is because splitting a royalty

would result in an entity recognising an amount at contract inception that would

reflect neither the amount to which the entity expects to be entitled, based on

its performance, nor the amount to which the entity has become legally entitled

during the period.

371

Regardless of whether an entity applies the royalty recognition constraint or

the general requirements for variable consideration, it is still required to

allocate sales-based or usage-based royalties to separate performance

obligations in a contract (as noted in Example 60 above). In order to perform

such an allocation, an entity may need to include expected royalties in its

estimate of the stand-alone selling price of one or more of the performance

obligations. Example 35 from the standard (extracted in full in section 6.3)

371

IFRS 15.BC421J.

353 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

also illustrates the allocation of the transaction price (including sales-based or

usage-based royalties) to the performance obligations in the contract.

8.5.1 Recognition of royalties for a licence that provides a right to access

intellectual property

The IASB explained in the Basis for Conclusions that the royalty recognition

constraint is intended to align the recognition of sales or usage-based royalties

with the standard’s key principle that revenue should be recognised when (or

as) an entity satisfies a performance obligation. As discussed above, IFRS 15

requires that royalties received in exchange for licences of intellectual property

are recognised at the later of when: (1) the subsequent sales or usage occurs;

and (2) the performance obligation to which the sales-based or usage-based

royalties relates has been satisfied (or partially satisfied). That is, an entity

recognises the royalties as revenue when (or as) the customer’s subsequent

sales or usage occurs, unless that pattern of recognition accelerates revenue

recognition ahead of the entity’s satisfaction of the performance obligation to

which the royalty solely or partially relates, based on an appropriate measure

of progress (see section 7.1.4).

372

Consider the following example, which was provided by the FASB, that

illustrates when revenue recognition may be inappropriately accelerated ahead

of an entity’s performance, if revenue was recognised under IFRS 15.B63(a) for

a right-to-access licence:

373

Example of a licensing contract with a declining royalty rate

A contract provides a customer with the right to access an entity’s

intellectual property and the entity receives royalties of 8% on total sales up

to CU1 million, 4% on the next CU3 million in sales and 2% on all sales above

CU4 million. The declining royalty rate does not reflect changing value to

the customer.

In this example, the FASB noted that recognising royalties as they are due

(i.e., according to the contractual formula) would not be aligned with

the principle of recognising revenue only when (or as) an entity satisfies a

performance obligation because the right to access the intellectual property

is provided evenly over the licence term while the declining royalty rate

does not reflect the value to the customer. However, the FASB stated that

the existence of a declining royalty rate in a contract does not always mean

that recognising revenue for sales-based or usage-based royalties as the

customer’s underlying sales or usage occur is inappropriate. In fact, it would

be appropriate if the declining royalty rate reflects the changing value to the

customer.

The above example notwithstanding, for many contracts with licences that

provide a right to access an entity’s intellectual property, applying the royalty

recognition constraint results in an entity recognising revenue from sales-based

or usage-based royalties when (or as) the customer’s underlying sales or

usage occurs in accordance with IFRS 15.B63(a). An output-based measure

of progress that is the same as, or similar to, the application of the practical

expedient in IFRS 15.B16 (i.e., when the right to consideration corresponds

directly with the value to the customer of the entity’s performance to date) is

appropriate because the entity’s right to consideration (i.e., the sales-based

or usage-based royalties earned) often corresponds directly with the value

372

IFRS 15.BC421I.

373

ASU 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying

Performance Obligations and Licensing, April 2016, paragraph BC71.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 354

to the customer of the entity’s performance completed to date. The practical

expedient in IFRS 15.B16 is discussed further in section 7.1.4.

In addition, an output-based measure could also be appropriate for a licence that

provides a right to access intellectual property in which the consideration is in

the form of a fixed fee and royalties. The following example from the standard

illustrates this:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 61 — Access to intellectual property (IFRS 15.IE309-IE313)

An entity, a well-known sports team, licenses the use of its name and logo

to a customer. The customer, an apparel designer, has the right to use the

sports team's name and logo on items including t-shirts, caps, mugs and

towels for one year. In exchange for providing the licence, the entity will

receive fixed consideration of CU2 million and a royalty of five per cent of the

sales price of any items using the team name or logo. The customer expects

that the entity will continue to play games and provide a competitive team.

The entity assesses the goods and services promised to the customer

to determine which goods and services are distinct in accordance with

paragraph 27 of IFRS 15. The entity concludes that its only performance

obligation is to transfer the licence. The additional activities associated with

the licence (ie continuing to play games and provide a competitive team) do

not directly transfer a good or service to the customer because they are part

of the entity's promise to grant the licence.

The entity assesses the nature of the entity's promise to transfer the licence

in accordance with paragraph B58 of IFRS 15. In assessing the criteria the

entity considers the following:

(a) the entity concludes that the customer would reasonably expect that

the entity will undertake activities that will significantly affect the

intellectual property (ie the team name and logo) to which the customer

has rights. This is on the basis of the entity's customary business practice

to undertake activities that support and maintain the value of the name

and logo such as continuing to play and providing a competitive team.

The entity determines that the ability of the customer to obtain benefit

from the name and logo is substantially derived from, or dependent upon,

the expected activities of the entity. In addition, the entity observes that

because some of its consideration is dependent on the success of the

customer (through the sales-based royalty), the entity has a shared

economic interest with the customer, which indicates that the customer

will expect the entity to undertake those activities to maximise earnings.

(b) the entity observes that the rights granted by the licence (ie the use of

the team's name and logo) directly expose the customer to any positive

or negative effects of the entity's activities.

from the activities through the rights granted by the licence, they do

not transfer a good or service to the customer as those activities occur.

The entity concludes that the criteria in paragraph B58 of IFRS 15 are met

and the nature of the entity's promise to grant the licence is to provide

the customer with access to the entity's intellectual property as it exists

throughout the licence period. Consequently, the entity accounts for the

promised licence as a performance obligation satisfied over time (ie the

criterion in paragraph 35(a) of IFRS 15 is met).

355 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

The entity then applies paragraphs 39–45 of IFRS 15 to determine a measure

of progress that will depict the entity's performance. For the consideration

that is in the form of a sales-based royalty, paragraph B63 of IFRS 15 applies

because the sales-based royalty relates solely to the licence, which is the only

performance obligation in the contract. The entity concludes that recognition

of the CU2 million fixed consideration as revenue rateably over time plus

recognition of the royalty as revenue as and when the customer's sales of

items using the team name or logo occur reasonably depicts the entity's

progress towards complete satisfaction of the licence performance

obligation.

In Example 61 above, the fixed consideration of CU2 million is an explicit term

in the contract with the customer. In some contracts, fixed consideration may

be implied, such as when a guaranteed minimum amount of royalties is part of

the transaction price.

In addition, as discussed in Question 8-2 in section 8.3.1, many licences that

provide a right to access intellectual property may constitute a series of distinct

goods or services that are substantially the same and have the same pattern of

transfer to the customer (e.g., a series of distinct periods of access to

intellectual property, such as monthly access or quarterly access). In cases

where the criteria for a performance obligation to be accounted for as a series

of distinct goods or services have been met, an entity needs to consider

whether any variable consideration in the contract (e.g., sales-based or usage-

based royalties) should be allocated directly to the distinct periods of access, if

the criteria for certain allocation exceptions are met. The allocation of sales-

based or usage-based royalties in this manner generally results in the

recognition of royalties as revenue when (or as) the customer’s underlying sales

or usage occurs.

An entity may need to apply significant judgement to determine the appropriate

pattern of revenue recognition for royalties received on a licence that provides

a right to access intellectual property.

Frequently asked questions

Question 8-3: Can the recognition constraint for sales-based or usage-

based royalties be applied to royalties that are paid in consideration for

sales of intellectual property (rather than just licences of intellectual

property)?

No. As noted in the Basis for Conclusions, the Board discussed but decided

not to expand the scope of the royalty recognition constraint to include sales

of intellectual property. The Board also stated that the royalty recognition

constraint is intended to apply only to limited circumstances (i.e., those

circumstances involving licences of intellectual property) and, therefore,

entities cannot apply it by analogy to other types of transactions.

374

IFRS 15.BC421, BC421F.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 356

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 8-4: If a contract for a licence of intellectual property includes

payments with fixed amounts (e.g., milestone payments) that are

determined by reference to sales-based or usage-based thresholds, would

the royalty recognition constraint need to be applied?

Yes. We generally believe the royalty recognition constraint would apply to

fixed amounts of variable consideration (i.e., fixed amounts of consideration

that are contingent on the occurrence of a future event), such as milestone

payments, provided the amounts are determined by reference to sales-based

or usage-based thresholds. This is the case even if those payments are not

referred to as ‘royalties’ under the terms of the contract. However, entities

need to apply judgement and carefully evaluate the facts and circumstances

of their contracts for licences of intellectual property to determine whether

these types of payments should be accounted for using the royalty

recognition constraint.

Consider the following example:

Illustration 8-1 – Application of the royalty recognition constraint to

a milestone payment

An entity enters into a contract to grant a customer a right to use the

entity’s intellectual property. The contract contains payment terms that

include a CU10 million milestone payment that is payable to the entity

once the customer has achieved sales of CU100 million associated with

the licence.

The entity determines that the milestone payment is based on the

customer’s subsequent sales and represents variable consideration

because it is contingent on the customer’s sales reaching CU100 million.

The entity accounts for the CU10 million milestone payment in accordance

with the royalty recognition constraint and only recognises revenue for

the milestone payment once the customer’s sales reach CU100 million.

Question 8-5: Can an entity recognise revenue for sales-based or usage-

based royalties for licences of intellectual property on a lag if actual sales

or usage data is not available at the end of a reporting period?

The standard requires that sales-based or usage-based royalties promised

in exchange for licences of intellectual property be recognised as revenue

at the later of when: (1) the subsequent sales or usage occurs and (2) the

performance obligation to which the sales-based or usage-based royalties

relates has been satisfied (or partially satisfied). Therefore, after the

conditions in the royalty recognition constraint application guidance

have been met (i.e., the underlying sales or usage has occurred and the

performance obligation to which the royalties relate has been satisfied (or

partially satisfied), we believe that licensors without actual sales or usage

data from the licensee need to make an estimate of royalties earned in the

current reporting period. This may have resulted in a change in practice for

entities that had recognised revenue from royalties on a lag under legacy

IFRS (i.e., in a reporting period subsequent to when the underlying sales or

usage occurs).

357 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 8-6: How does a minimum guarantee affect the recognition of

sales-based or usage-based royalties promised in exchange for a licence of

intellectual property that is satisfied at a point in time? [FASB TRG meeting

7 November 2016 - Agenda paper no. 58]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that a minimum guaranteed amount

of sales based or usage-based royalties promised in exchange for a licence

of intellectual property that is satisfied at a point in time (IFRS: right-to-use

licence; US GAAP: licence of functional intellectual property) would need

to be recognised as revenue at the point in time that the entity transfers

control of the licence to the customer (see section 8.3.2). Any royalties

above the fixed minimum would be recognised in accordance with the royalty

recognition constraint (i.e., at the later of when the sale or usage occurs or

when the entity satisfies the performance obligation to which some or all

of the royalty has been allocated).

Question 8-7: How does a minimum guarantee affect the recognition of

sales-based or usage-based royalties promised in exchange for a licence

of intellectual property that is satisfied over time? [FASB TRG meeting

7 November 2016 - Agenda paper no. 58]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that various recognition approaches

could be acceptable for minimum guarantees promised in exchange for

licences of intellectual property that are satisfied over time (IFRS: right-to-

access licences; US GAAP: licences of symbolic intellectual property, see

section 8.3.1). This is because, as the FASB staff noted in the TRG agenda

paper, this question is asking what is an appropriate measure of progress

for such contracts and the standard permits reasonable judgement when

selecting a measure of progress. Because the standard does not prescribe

a single approach that must be applied in all circumstances in which a sales-

based or usage-based royalty is promised in exchange for a licence of

intellectual property and the contract includes a minimum guaranteed

amount, an entity should consider the nature of its arrangements and

make sure that the measure of progress it selects does not override the

core principle of the standard that “an entity shall recognise revenue to

depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount

that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in

exchange for those goods or services”.

375

An entity would need to disclose

the accounting policy it selects because it is likely that this would affect the

timing of revenue recognised.

The agenda paper describes two approaches. Under one approach, an entity

would estimate the total consideration (i.e., the fixed minimum and the

variable consideration from future royalties) and apply an appropriate

measure of progress to recognise revenue as the entity satisfies the

performance obligation, subject to the royalty recognition constraint.

Alternatively, under the other approach, an entity could apply a measure

of progress to the fixed consideration and begin recognising the variable

component after exceeding the fixed amount on a cumulative basis.

The first approach can be applied in two different ways, as follows:

•

View A: If an entity expects royalties to exceed the minimum guarantee,

the entity may determine that an output-based measure is an

appropriate measure of progress and apply the right-to-invoice

practical expedient (i.e., IFRS 15.B16, see section 7.1.4.A) because

the royalties due for each period correlate directly with the value to the

customer of the entity’s performance each period. As a result of applying

the practical expedient for recognising revenue, the entity would not

375

IFRS 15.2.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 358

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

need to estimate the expected royalties beyond determining whether it

expects, at contract inception, that the royalties will exceed the minimum

guarantee. However, the entity would be required to update that

assessment at the end of each reporting period. It is important to note

that this view is likely to be appropriate if the entity expects cumulative

royalties to exceed the minimum guarantee.

• View B: An entity estimates the transaction price for the performance

obligation (including both fixed and variable consideration) and

recognises revenue using an appropriate measure of progress, subject

to the royalty recognition constraint. If an entity does not expect

cumulative royalties to exceed the minimum guarantee, the measure

of progress is applied to the minimum guarantee since the transaction

price will at least equal the fixed amount.

The second approach can be summarised, as follows:

• View C: An entity recognises the minimum guarantee (i.e., the fixed

consideration) using an appropriate measure of progress and recognises

royalties only when cumulative royalties exceed the minimum guarantee.

The FASB staff noted in the TRG agenda paper that, in order for an entity

to apply View C, the over-time licence would have to be considered a series

of distinct goods or services (i.e., a series of distinct time periods) and

the variable consideration (i.e., the royalties in excess of the minimum

guarantee) would have to be allocated to the distinct time periods to which

they relate.

To illustrate the application of these views, the following example has been

adapted from one included in the FASB TRG agenda paper:

Example of accounting for a licence of intellectual property that is

satisfied over time in exchange for a minimum guarantee and sales-

based royalty

An entity enters into a five-year arrangement to licence a trademark.

The trademark is determined to be a licence of intellectual property that

is satisfied over time (IFRS: right-to-access licence; US GAAP: licence of

symbolic intellectual property). The licence requires the customer to pay a

sales-based royalty of 5% of its gross sales associated with the trademark.

However, the contract includes a guarantee that the entity will receive

a minimum of CU5 million for the entire five-year period.

The customer’s actual gross sales associated with the trademark and the

related royalties each year are, as follows (this information is not known

at the beginning of the contract):

Year 1 – CU15 million (royalties equal CU750,000)

Year 2 – CU30 million (royalties equal CU1.5 million)

Year 3 – CU40 million (royalties equal CU2 million)

Year 4 – CU20 million (royalties equal CU1 million)

Year 5 – CU60 million (royalties equal CU3 million)

Total royalties equal CU8.25 million.

View A:

The entity expects total royalties to exceed the minimum

guarantee. The entity determines that an output-based measure is

an appropriate measure of progress and applies the right-to-invoice

practical expedient because the royalties due for each period correlate

directly with the value to the customer of the entity’s performance for

359 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of accounting for a licence of intellectual property that is

satisfied over time in exchange for a minimum guarantee and sales-

based royalty (cont’d)

each period. The entity recognises revenue from the sales-based royalty

when the customer’s subsequent sales occur.

(in 000s)

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Royalties received

750

1,500

2,000

1,000

3,000

Annual revenue

750

1,500

2,000

1,000

3,000

Cumulative revenue

750

2,250

4,250

5,250

8,250

View B:

The entity estimates the transaction price (including fixed and

variable consideration) for the contract. The entity determines that time

elapsed is an appropriate measure of progress and recognises revenue

rateably over the five-year term of the contract, subject to the royalty

recognition constraint (i.e., cumulative revenue recognised cannot exceed

the cumulative royalties received once the minimum guarantee has been

met).

a. Assuming the entity’s estimated transaction price (including both fixed and variable

consideration) is CU8.25 million, the annual revenue that could be recognised

is CU1.65 million (CU8.25 million divided by five years, being contract term).

b. In Year 4, the cumulative revenue using a time-elapsed measure of progress of

CU6.6 million (CU4.95 million plus CU1.65 million) exceeds the cumulative royalties

received (CU5.25 million). As such, the total cumulative revenue recognised through

to the end of Year 4 is constrained to the total cumulative royalties received of

CU5.25 million.

View C:

The entity recognises the minimum guarantee (i.e., the fixed

consideration) using an appropriate measure of progress and recognises

royalties only when cumulative royalties exceed the minimum guarantee.

The entity determines that time elapsed is an appropriate measure of

progress.

The entity applies the royalty recognition constraint to the sales-based

royalties that are in excess of the minimum guarantee (i.e., recognise

the royalties as revenue when the minimum guarantee is exceeded on

a cumulative basis). The variable consideration (royalties in excess of the

minimum guarantee) is allocated to the distinct periods using the variable

consideration allocation exception (i.e., IFRS 15.85, see section 6.3).

(in 000s)

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Royalties received

750

1,500

2,000

1,000

3,000

Royalties (cumulative)

750

2,250

4,250

5,250

8,250

Fixed + Variable

(rateable)

1,650

Annual revenue

1,650

300

3,000

Cumulative revenue

1,650

3,300

4,950

5,250

8,250

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 360

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Example of accounting for a licence of intellectual property that is

satisfied over time in exchange for a minimum guarantee and sales-

based royalty (cont’d)

As previously discussed, the FASB staff noted in the TRG agenda paper

that, in order for an entity to apply View C, the over-time licence would

have to be considered a series of distinct goods or services (i.e., a series of

distinct time periods) and the variable consideration (i.e., the royalties that

are in excess of the minimum guarantee) would have to be allocated to the

distinct time periods to which they relate.

(in 000s)

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Royalties received

750

1,500

2,000

1,000

3,000

Royalties (cumulative)

750

2,250

4,250

5,250

8,250

Fixed (rateable)

1,000

Annual revenue

1,000

1,250

4,000

Cumulative revenue

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,250

8,250

a. Because the minimum guarantee is CU5 million over the contract term, the

annual revenue (excluding royalties that are in excess of the minimum

guarantee) is CU1 million (CU5 million divided by five years, being the

contract term).

b. In Year 4, the cumulative royalties received (CU5.25 million) exceed the total

minimum guarantee (CU5 million) by CU250,000. As such, the annual revenue

recognised in Year 4 is CU1.25 million (CU1 million annual revenue plus

CU250,000 of royalties in excess of the minimum guarantee).

c. In Year 5, the annual revenue recognised (CU4 million) is calculated as the CU1

million annual revenue plus the royalties for that year (CU3 million) since the

royalties exceeded the minimum guarantee in Year 4.

The FASB staff noted in the TRG agenda paper that other measures of

progress, in addition to those set out above, could be acceptable because

the standard permits entities to use judgement in selecting an appropriate

measure of progress and that judgement is not limited to the views in

the TRG agenda paper. However, the staff emphasised that it would

not be acceptable for entities to apply any measure of progress in any

circumstance. For example, the FASB staff noted it would not be acceptable

to apply multiple measures of progress to a single performance obligation,

such as one measure for fixed consideration and a different one for variable

consideration. The staff also thought it would not be appropriate for an entity

to apply the breakage model in IFRS 15.B46 (see section 7.9) because it

is likely that a customer would not have an unexercised right in a licence

arrangement if the entity is providing the customer with access to its

intellectual property over the entire term of the arrangement. Another

approach that would not be appropriate, according to the FASB staff, is

one that ignores the royalties recognition constraint application guidance in

IFRS 15.B63, which requires revenue to be recognised at the later of when:

(1) the subsequent sale or usage occurs; or (2) the performance obligation

to which some or all of the sales-based or usage-based royalty has been

allocated is satisfied (in whole or in part) (discussed above in section 8.5).

361 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 8-8: Can entities apply the royalty recognition constraint for

sales-based or usage-based royalties if they do not own the intellectual

property or control the intellectual property as a principal in the

arrangement?

Yes, we generally believe entities can apply the royalty recognition

constraint if their revenue is based on a sales-based or usage-based

royalty from a licence of intellectual property, but they do not own or

control the intellectual property as a principal in the arrangement.

Consider the following example:

Illustration 8-2 – Application of the royalty recognition constraint as

an agent

University U has intellectual property for its logo. Company Z, acting as

an agent for University U, identifies an apparel company looking to

license University U’s logo to put it on merchandise. University U is paid

a royalty based on sales and usage of its intellectual property (the logo)

by the licensee (the apparel company). Company Z receives a portion of

the royalty earned by University U. Company Z does not control the

intellectual property at any point during the arrangement and its ability

to receive consideration from University U depends on the licensing of

University U’s intellectual property. We believe that application of the

royalty recognition constraint may be appropriate in this example

because the royalties earned by University U and, in effect, the amount

Company Z expects to be entitled to receive, are directly tied to the

usage of the intellectual property.

It is important to note that this view applies only to licences of intellectual

property for which some or all of the consideration received by both

the licensor and the agent is in the form of a sales-based or usage-based

royalty. Entities cannot analogise to this view for other situations. Entities

should disclose their use of the royalty recognition constraint because it

is likely to effect the amount and timing of revenue recognised.

Question 8-9: Can entities recognise sales-based or usage-based

royalties before the sale or usage of the intellectual property occurs if

they have historical information that is highly predictive of future royalty

amounts?

No. In accordance with IFRS 15.B63-B63B, revenue from a sales-based

or usage-based royalty promised in exchange for a licence of intellectual

property is recognised at the later of when: (1) the subsequent sale or

usage occurs; or (2) the performance obligation to which some or all of the

sales-based or usage-based royalty has been allocated has been satisfied

(in whole or in part). Revenue recognition cannot be accelerated even

if an entity has historical information that is highly predictive of future

royalty amounts. That is, the use of the royalty recognition constraint

is not optional.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 362

9. Other measurement and recognition topics

9.1 Warranties

Warranties are commonly included in arrangements to sell goods or services.

They may be explicitly included in the contractual arrangement with a customer

or may be required by law or regulation. In addition, an entity may have

established an implicit policy of providing warranty services to maintain a

desired level of satisfaction among its customers. Whether explicit or implicit,

warranty obligations extend an entity’s obligations beyond the transfer of

control of the good or service to the customer, requiring it to stand ready to

perform under the warranty over the life of the warranty obligation.

The price of a warranty may be included in the overall purchase price or listed

separately as an optional product. While the standard notes that the nature of

a warranty can vary significantly across industries and contracts, it identifies

two types of warranties:

• Warranties that promise the customer that the delivered product is as

specified in the contract (called ‘assurance-type warranties’)

• Warranties that provide a service to the customer in addition to assurance

that the delivered product is as specified in the contract (called ‘service-

type warranties’)

9.1.1 Determining whether a warranty is an assurance-type or service-type

warranty (updated October 2018)

If the customer has the option to purchase the warranty separately or if the

warranty provides a service to the customer, beyond fixing defects that existed

at the time of sale, IFRS 15.B29 states that the entity is providing a service-

type warranty. Otherwise, it is an assurance-type warranty, which provides

the customer with assurance that the product complies with agreed-upon

specifications. In some cases, it may be difficult to determine whether

a warranty provides a customer with a service in addition to the assurance

that the delivered product is as specified in the contract. To help entities make

that assessment, the standard provides the following application guidance:

Extract from IFRS 15

B31. In assessing whether a warranty provides a customer with a service

in addition to the assurance that the product complies with agreed-upon

specifications, an entity shall consider factors such as:

(a) Whether the warranty is required by law—if the entity is required by law to

provide a warranty, the existence of that law indicates that the promised

warranty is not a performance obligation because such requirements

typically exist to protect customers from the risk of purchasing defective

products.

(b) The length of the warranty coverage period—the longer the coverage

period, the more likely it is that the promised warranty is a performance

obligation because it is more likely to provide a service in addition to the

assurance that the product complies with agreed-upon specifications.

necessary for an entity to perform specified tasks to provide the

assurance that a product complies with agreed-upon specifications

(for example, a return shipping service for a defective product), then

those tasks likely do not give rise to a performance obligation.

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Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

B33. A law that requires an entity to pay compensation if its products cause

harm or damage does not give rise to a performance obligation. For example,

a manufacturer might sell products in a jurisdiction in which the law holds

the manufacturer liable for any damages (for example, to personal property)

that might be caused by a consumer using a product for its intended purpose.

Similarly, an entity's promise to indemnify the customer for liabilities and

damages arising from claims of patent, copyright, trademark or other

infringement by the entity's products does not give rise to a performance

obligation. The entity shall account for such obligations in accordance with

IAS 37.

The following flow chart illustrates these requirements:

*Some contracts may include both assurance-type and service-type warranties. See section 9.1.4 for

further discussion.

Yes

Service-type warranty — The warranty

(or part of the warranty)* provides an

additional, distinct service to the

customer and is accounted for as a

separate performance obligation. See

section 9.1.2.

Does the customer have the option to

purchase the warranty separately?

Does the warranty provide a service to the

customer beyond fixing defects that existed

at the time of sale?

Assurance-type warranty — The warranty

(or part of the warranty)* does not provide

an additional, distinct service to the

customer (i.e., it is not a separate

performance obligation). The customer is

effectively receiving a guarantee of quality

and the warranty is accounted for in

accordance with IAS 37. See section 9.1.3.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 364

How we see it

Entities may need to exercise significant judgement when determining

whether a warranty is an assurance-type or service-type warranty. An

entity’s evaluation may be affected by several factors including common

warranty practices within its industry and the entity’s business practices

related to warranties. For example, consider an automotive manufacturer

that provides a five-year warranty on a luxury vehicle and a three-year

warranty on a standard vehicle. The manufacturer may conclude that

the longer warranty period is not an additional service because it believes

the materials used to construct the luxury vehicle are of a higher quality

and that latent defects would take longer to appear. In contrast, the

manufacturer may also consider the length of the warranty period and the

nature of the services provided under the warranty and conclude that the

five-year warranty period, or some portion of it, is an additional service that

needs to be accounted for as a service-type warranty. The standard excludes

assurance-type warranties, which are accounted for in accordance with

IAS 37.

Frequently asked questions

Question 9-1: How does an entity evaluate whether a product warranty is

a service-type warranty (i.e., a performance obligation) when it is not

separately priced? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015 – Agenda paper no. 29]

TRG members generally agreed that the evaluation of whether a warranty

provides a service (in addition to the assurance that the product complies

with agreed specifications) requires judgement and depends on the facts

and circumstances. There is no bright line in the standard on what constitutes

a service-type warranty, beyond it being separately priced.

However, IFRS 15.B31 includes three factors that need to be considered in

each evaluation: (1) whether the warranty is required by law; (2) the length of

the warranty coverage; and (3) the nature of the tasks that the entity

promises to perform. Consider the following example from the TRG agenda

paper, which illustrates the factors an entity considers in assessing whether a

product warranty is a service-type warranty:

Example of consideration of service-type warranty factors

A luggage company provides a life-time warranty to repair broken or

damaged baggage free of charge.

The luggage company evaluates the three factors in IFRS 15.B31 and

determines that the warranty is a performance obligation in addition to the

assurance that the product complies with agreed-upon specifications

because: (1) there is no law that requires the luggage company to make a

promise for the lifetime of the product; (2) the length of the warranty is for

the life of the baggage; and (3) the tasks include both repairs to baggage

that does not meet the promised specifications and repairs for broken or

damaged baggage.

Furthermore, the TRG agenda paper emphasised that entities cannot assume

that their previous accounting remains unchanged under IFRS 15. Entities

need to evaluate each type of warranty offered to determine the appropriate

accounting treatment.

365 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 9-2: How would an entity account for repairs provided outside the

warranty period?

An entity must to consider all facts and circumstances, including the factors

in IFRS 15.B31 (e.g., the nature of the services provided, the length of the

implied warranty period) to determine whether repairs provided outside the

warranty period need to be accounted for as an assurance-type or service-

type warranty. Sometimes, entities provide these services as part of their

customary business practices, in addition to providing assurance-type

warranties for specified periods of time. For example, an equipment

manufacturer may give its customers a standard product warranty that

provides assurance that the product complies with agreed-upon specifications

for one year from the date of purchase. However, the entity may also provide

an implied warranty by frequently repairing products for free after the one-

year standard warranty period has ended. See section 4.1 for a discussion of

implied promises in a contract with a customer.

If the entity determines that the repairs made during the implied warranty

period generally involve defects that existed when the product was sold and

the repairs occur shortly after the assurance warranty period, the entity may

conclude that the repairs are covered by an assurance-type warranty. That is,

the term of the assurance-type warranty may be longer than that stated in

the contract. However, all facts need to be considered to reach a conclusion.

If the entity determines that the repairs provided outside the warranty period

are covered by a service-type warranty (because the entity is providing a

service to the customer beyond fixing defects that existed at the time of

sale), it also needs to consider whether the term of the service-type warranty

is longer than that stated in the contract.

Question 9-3: Should an entity account for a customer’s return of a

defective item in exchange for compensation (i.e., not for a replacement

item) as a right of return or an assurance-type warranty?

We believe that an entity should account for the right to return a defective

item in return for cash (instead of a replacement item) under the right of

return application guidance in IFRS 15.B20-B27, rather than as an assurance-

type warranty. The Basis for Conclusions states that “… the boards decided

that an entity should recognise an assurance-type warranty as a separate

liability to replace or repair a defective product”.

376

This description of

an assurance-type warranty does not include defective products that are

returned for a refund. It only contemplates defective products that are

replaced or repaired. See section 5.4.1 for a discussion of rights of return.

However, there may be limited circumstances in which the cash paid to a

customer for a defective item would need to be accounted for in accordance

with the warranty application guidance, instead of as a right of return. For

example, an entity may pay cash to a customer as reimbursement for third-

party costs incurred to repair a defective item. In this case, the cash payment

to the customer was incurred to fulfil the entity’s warranty obligation. This

assessment requires judgement and depends on the facts and circumstances.

Question 9-4: Should liquidated damages, penalties or compensation from

other similar clauses be accounted for as variable consideration or warranty

provisions under the standard?

See response to Question 5-4 in section 5.2.1.

376

IFRS 15.BC376.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 366

9.1.2 Service-type warranties (updated September 2019)

The Board determined that a service-type warranty represents a distinct service

and is a separate performance obligation.

377

Therefore, using the relative

stand-alone selling price of the warranty, an entity allocates a portion of

the transaction price to the service-type warranty (see section 6). The entity

then recognises the allocated revenue over the period in which the service-

type warranty service is provided. This is because it is likely that the customer

receives and consumes the benefits of the warranty as the entity performs

(i.e., it is likely that the warranty performance obligation is satisfied over time

in accordance with IFRS 15.35(a), see section 7.1.1).

Judgement may be required to determine the appropriate pattern of revenue

recognition associated with service-type warranties. For example, an entity

may determine that it provides the warranty service continuously over the

warranty period (i.e., the performance obligation is an obligation to ‘stand

ready to perform’ during the stated warranty period). An entity that makes

this determination is likely to recognise revenue rateably over the warranty

period. An entity may also conclude that a different pattern of recognition is

appropriate based on data it has collected about when it provides such services.

For example, an entity may recognise little or no revenue in the first year of

a three-year service-type warranty if its historical data indicates that it only

provides warranty services in the second and third years of the warranty period.

The AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide,

Revenue Recognition

, provides non-

authoritative guidance on how to determine the appropriate pattern of

recognition for service-type warranties. The guidance says that, if an entity

determines that it is standing ready to provide protection against damage, loss or

malfunction of a product caused by various risks for the specified coverage period

(i.e., provides assurance of use for the covered product for the coverage period

that would include some level of involvement with the repair or replacement), it

recognises revenue over the coverage period.

If an entity determines that it has promised to repair, arrange to repair or replace

the product, it recognises revenue over the period in which it is expected to repair

or replace the product. The period could extend beyond the coverage period if

services to repair or replace the product are expected to be provided after the

coverage period ends.

For example, a claim may be filed at the end of a one-year period, but it is fulfilled

after the coverage period ends. While the activities in both instances may be

similar, the nature of the promise to the customer determines the period of

recognition.

378

Section 7.1.4 describes considerations for determining the

appropriate pattern of revenue recognition, including for stand-ready obligations.

If payment for the service-type warranty is received upfront, an entity should also

evaluate whether a significant financing component exists (see section 5.5).

In some instances, entities that sell service-type warranties will buy insurance

to protect themselves against the potential costs of performing under such

warranties. Although the anticipated insurance proceeds might offset any costs

that the entity might incur, immediate revenue recognition for the price of the

service-type warranty is not appropriate. The entity has not been relieved of its

obligation to perform under the terms of the warranty contract and, therefore,

a liability still exists. Accordingly, the warranty obligation and any proceeds

related to the insurance coverage need to be accounted for separately (unless

377

IFRS 15.BC371.

378

See AICPA guide, Revenue Recognition, Chapter 1, General Accounting Considerations,

paragraphs 1.63 -1.75.

367 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

the insurer has legally assumed the warranty obligation and the customer has

acknowledged that fact).

As discussed in section 6.1, stand-alone selling prices are determined at contract

inception and are not updated to reflect changes between contract inception and

when performance is complete. Accordingly, an entity would not change the

amount of transaction price it originally allocated to the service-type warranty

at contract inception. This would be the case, even if, for example, an entity

may discover two months after a product is shipped that the cost of a part

acquired from a third-party manufacturer has tripled and that, as a result, it will

cost the entity significantly more to replace that part if a warranty claim is

made. However, for future contracts involving the same warranty, the entity

would need to determine whether to revise the stand-alone selling price because

of the increase in the costs to satisfy the warranty and, if so, use that revised

price for future allocations (see section 6.1.3).

9.1.3 Assurance-type warranties (updated October 2018)

The Board concluded that assurance-type warranties do not provide

an additional good or service to the customer (i.e., they are not separate

performance obligations). By providing this type of warranty, the selling

entity has effectively provided a guarantee of quality. In accordance with

IFRS 15.B30, these types of warranties are accounted for as warranty

obligations and the estimated cost of satisfying them is accrued in accordance

with the requirements in IAS 37.

379

Once recorded, the warranty liability is

assessed on an ongoing basis in accordance with IAS 37.

An entity might recognise revenue for sales of goods or services, including

assurance-type warranties when control of the goods or services is transferred

to the customer, assuming that the arrangement meets the criteria to be

considered a contract under IFRS 15 (see section 3.1) and the entity’s costs of

honouring its warranty obligations are reasonably estimable.

Assurance-type warranties are accounted for outside of the scope of IFRS 15.

Therefore, if an entity elects to use a costs incurred measure of progress for

over time revenue recognition of the related good or service, the costs of

satisfying an assurance-type warranty are excluded (i.e., excluded from both

the numerator and the denominator in the measure of progress calculation –

see section 7.1.4 for further discussion on measuring progress over time).

9.1.4 Contracts that contain both assurance and service-type warranties.

Some contracts may include both an assurance-type warranty and a service-

type warranty. However, if an entity provides both an assurance-type and

service-type warranty within a contract and the entity cannot reasonably

account for them separately, the warranties are accounted for as a single

performance obligation (i.e., revenue would be allocated to the combined

warranty and recognised over the period the warranty services are provided).

379

IFRS 15.BC376.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 368

When an assurance-type warranty and a service-type warranty are both present

in a contract with a customer, an entity is required to accrue for the expected

costs associated with the assurance-type warranty and defer the revenue for

the service-type warranty, as illustrated below:

Illustration 9-1 — Service-type and assurance-type warranties

An entity manufactures and sells computers that include an assurance-type

warranty for the first 90 days. The entity offers an optional ’extended

coverage’ plan under which it will repair or replace any defective part for

three years from the expiration of the assurance-type warranty. Since the

optional ‘extended coverage’ plan is sold separately, the entity determines

that the three years of extended coverage represent a separate performance

obligation (i.e., a service-type warranty).

The total transaction price for the sale of a computer and the extended

warranty is CU3,600. The entity determines that the stand-alone selling

prices of the computer and the extended warranty are CU3,200 and CU400,

respectively. The inventory value of the computer is CU1,440. Furthermore,

the entity estimates that, based on its experience, it will incur CU200 in

costs to repair defects that arise within the 90-day coverage period for the

assurance-type warranty. As a result, the entity will record the following

entries:

Dr. Cash/Trade receivables

CU3,600

Dr. Warranty expense

CU200

Cr. Accrued warranty costs (assurance-type warranty)

CU200

Cr. Contract liability (service-type warranty)

CU400

Cr. Revenue

CU3,200

To record revenue and liabilities related to warranties.

Dr. Cost of goods sold

CU1,440

Cr. Inventory

CU1,440

To relieve inventory and recognise cost of goods sold.

The entity derecognises the accrued warranty liability associated with the

assurance-type warranty as actual warranty costs are incurred during the

first 90 days after the customer receives the computer. The entity recognises

the contract liability associated with the service-type warranty as revenue

during the contract warranty period and recognises the costs associated with

providing the service-type warranty as they are incurred. The entity would

need to be able to determine whether the repair costs incurred are applied

against the warranty reserve it already established for claims that occur

during the first 90 days or recognised as an expense as incurred.

369 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Accounting for both assurance-type warranties and service-type warranties in

the same transaction may be complex. Entities may need to develop processes

to match individual warranty claims with the specific warranty plans so

that claims can be analysed for the appropriate accounting treatment. This

individual assessment of warranty claims is necessary because the assurance-

type warranty costs will have been accrued previously, while the service-type

warranty costs are expenses that need to be recognised in the period in which

they are incurred, as illustrated below:

Illustration 9-2 — Service-type and assurance-type warranty costs

Assume the same facts as in Illustration 9-1, but assume the entity has sold

500 computers during the year. In January of the following year, CU10,000

of warranty claims are submitted by customers. The entity analyses each

claim and identifies the specific computer sale to which the claims relate. The

entity needs to do this in order to determine eligibility and the appropriate

accounting treatment under the warranty plans.

The entity determines that a portion of the claims, costing CU2,500 for repair

and replacement parts, are covered by the assurance-type warranty plan.

As shown above in Illustration 9-1, the expected cost of each assurance-type

warranty was accrued at the time of the sale. The entity records the following

entry to derecognise a portion of the warranty liability:

Dr. Accrued warranty costs (assurance-type warranty) CU2,500

Cr. Cash CU2,500

To derecognise the assurance-type warranty liability as the costs are incurred.

The entity also determines that a portion of the claims, costing CU7,000 for

repair and replacement parts, are eligible under the ‘extended coverage’ plan

(i.e., the service-type warranty). The entity records the following entry to

recognise the costs associated with the service-type warranty:

Dr. Warranty expense CU7,000

Cr. Cash CU7,000

To record the costs of the service-type warranty as the costs are incurred.

The entity also determines that CU500 of the claims are not eligible under

either warranty plan. This is because the claims relate to incidents that

occurred after the 90-day coverage period for the assurance-type warranty

and the customers in those transactions did not purchase the extended

warranty coverage. The entity rejects these customer claims.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

The requirements for assurance-type warranties, as discussed in section 9.1.3,

are essentially the same as previous practice under legacy IFRS. The

requirements for service-type warranties differ from previous practice,

particularly in relation to the amount of transaction price that is allocated to the

warranty performance obligation, as is discussed in section 9.1.2. Previously,

entities that provided separate extended warranties often deferred an amount

equal to the stated price of the warranty and recorded that amount as revenue

evenly over the warranty period. IFRS 15 requires an entity to defer an

allocated amount, based on a relative stand-alone selling price allocation, which

may have increased judgement and complexity.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 370

9.2 Onerous contracts (updated September 2019)

During the development of IFRS 15, the IASB decided that the standard should

not include an onerous test. Instead, entities are required to use the existing

requirements in IAS 37 to identify and measure onerous contracts.

380

IAS 37

requires the following in respect of onerous contracts:

Extract from IAS 37

66. If an entity has a contract that is onerous, the present obligation under

the contract shall be recognised and measured as a provision.

67. Many contracts (for example, some routine purchase orders) can be

cancelled without paying compensation to the other party, and therefore

there is no obligation. Other contracts establish both rights and obligations

for each of the contracting parties. Where events make such a contract

onerous, the contract falls within the scope of this Standard and a liability

exists which is recognised. Executory contracts that are not onerous fall

outside the scope of this Standard.

68. This Standard defines an onerous contract as a contract in which the

unavoidable costs of meeting the obligations under the contract exceed the

economic benefits expected to be received under it. The unavoidable costs

under a contract reflect the least net cost of exiting from the contract, which

is the lower of the cost of fulfilling it and any compensation or penalties

arising from failure to fulfil it.

69. Before a separate provision for an onerous contract is established, an

entity recognises any impairment loss that has occurred on assets dedicated

to that contract (see IAS 36).

In 2017, the IFRS IC received a request to clarify which costs an entity considers

when assessing whether a contract with a customer is onerous when applying

IAS 37. The request particularly focused on the application to contracts that were

previously within the scope of IAS 11. The Committee concluded that there are

two reasonable ways of applying the requirement in IAS 37.68 relating to

‘unavoidable costs’ of fulfilling the contract: the incremental costs of fulfilling the

contract and all costs that relate directly to the contract (i.e., incremental and

allocated costs).

381

However, in order to avoid diversity in practice that could

arise when entities apply IFRS 15, the IFRS IC recommended to the IASB that it

add a narrow-scope project to its standard-setting agenda to clarify the meaning

of the term ‘unavoidable costs’ within the IAS 37 definition of an onerous

contract.

382

In December 2018, the IASB released an exposure draft proposing that, when

assessing whether a contract is onerous under IAS 37.68, the 'costs of fulfilling’ a

contract comprise all “costs that relate directly to the contract” (i.e., the

incremental costs of fulfilling the contract and an allocation of other costs that

relate directly to the contract). At the time of writing, the IASB was discussing the

feedback on its exposure draft.

380

IFRS 15.BC296.

381

IFRIC Update, June 2017, available on the IASB's website.

382

IFRIC Update, March 2018, available on the IASB's website.

371 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions

Question 9-5: How does an entity account for an onerous contract with

a customer when the contract includes more than one performance

obligation that is satisfied over time consecutively?

Since the requirements for onerous contracts are outside the scope of

IFRS 15, an entity’s accounting for onerous contracts does not affect the

accounting for its revenue from contracts with customers in accordance

with IFRS 15.

Therefore, we believe entities must use an ’overlay’ approach, which

consists of two steps:

1. Apply the requirements of IFRS 15 to measure progress in satisfying

each performance obligation over time and account for the related

costs when incurred in accordance with the applicable standards.

2. At the end of each reporting period, apply IAS 37 to determine if

the remaining contract as a whole is onerous (i.e., considering

whether the revenue still to be recognised is less than the costs yet

to be incurred). If an entity concludes that the remaining contract is

onerous, it recognises a provision to the extent that the amount of the

unavoidable costs under the contract exceed the economic benefits to

be received under it.

The effect of the provision is recognised as an expense, not as an

adjustment to revenue. A change in the provision is recognised in profit or

loss in accordance with IAS 37.59.

Since the definition of an onerous contract in IAS 37.10 refers to

a contract, the unit of account in determining whether an onerous contract

exists is the contract itself, rather than the performance obligations

identified in accordance with IFRS 15. As a result, the entity must consider

the entire remaining contract, including remaining revenue to be

recognised for unsatisfied, or partially unsatisfied, performance obligations

and the remaining costs to fulfil those performance obligations.

FASB differences

Under US GAAP, while requirements exist for some industries or for certain

types of transactions, there is no general authoritative standard for when to

recognise losses on onerous contracts and, if a loss is to be recognised, how

to measure the loss. Accordingly, there is diversity in practice when such

contracts are not within the scope of specific authoritative literature. The

FASB retained existing requirements for situations in which an entity is

expected to incur a loss on a contract (with certain consequential

amendments to reflect the terminology of, and cross-references to,

ASC 606, where appropriate). In addition, the FASB clarified that the

assessment is performed at the contract level, but that an entity can perform it

at the performance obligation level as an accounting policy election. As the

FASB’s requirements on onerous contracts are not the same as those in

IAS 37, the accounting treatment in this area is not converged.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 372

9.3 Contract costs (updated October 2018)

IFRS 15 specifies the accounting treatment for costs an entity incurs to obtain

and fulfil a contract to provide goods or services to customers as discussed

below. An entity only applies these requirements to costs incurred that relate

to a contract with a customer that is within the scope of IFRS 15 (see section 2).

When an entity recognises capitalised contract costs under IFRS 15, any

such assets must be presented separately from contract assets and contract

liabilities (see section 10.1) in the statement of financial position or disclosed

separately in the notes to the financial statements (assuming they are material).

Furthermore, entities must consider the requirements in IAS 1 on classification

of current assets when determining whether their contract cost assets are

presented as current or non-current. See section 10.1 for a discussion on

classification as current or non-current.

9.3.1 Costs to obtain a contract (updated October 2018)

Before applying the cost requirements in IFRS 15, entities need to consider

the scoping provisions of the standard. Specifically, an entity needs to first

consider whether the requirements on consideration payable to a customer

under IFRS 15 apply to the costs (see section 5.7 for a discussion on accounting

for consideration paid or payable to a customer).

For costs that are within the scope of the cost requirements in IFRS 15, the

standard requires that incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a

customer are recognised as an asset if the entity expects to recover them. An

entity can expect to recover contract acquisition costs through direct recovery

(i.e., reimbursement under the contract) or indirect recovery (i.e., through the

margin inherent in the contract). Incremental costs are those that an entity

would not have incurred if the contract had not been obtained.

Costs incurred to obtain a contract that are not incremental costs must be

expensed as incurred, unless they are explicitly chargeable to the customer

(regardless of whether the contract is obtained).

373 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The following flow chart illustrates the requirements in IFRS 15:

In a FASB TRG agenda paper,

the FASB staff suggested that, to determine

whether a cost is incremental, an entity should consider whether it would incur

the cost if the customer (or the entity) decides, just as the parties are about

to sign the contract, that it will not enter into the contract. If the costs would

have been incurred even if the contract is not executed, the costs are not

incremental to obtaining that contract. The FASB staff also noted that the

objective of this requirement is not to allocate costs that are associated in

some manner with an entity’s marketing and sales activity, but only to identify

those costs that an entity would not have incurred if the contract had not

been obtained. For example, salaries and benefits of sales employees that

are incurred regardless of whether a contract is obtained are not incremental

costs.

383

FASB TRG Agenda paper no. 57, Capitalization and Amortization of Incremental Costs of

Obtaining a Contract, dated 7 November 2016.

Yes

Are those costs explicitly

chargeable to the customer

regardless of whether the contract

is obtained?

Expense the costs as incurred.

The entity may either expense as

incurred or recognise as an asset

in accordance with the practical

expedient in IFRS 15.94.

Yes

Recognise the costs of obtaining a

contract as an asset.

Yes

Would the entity incur the costs

only if the contract is obtained

(i.e., are the costs incremental)?

Does the entity expect to

recover those costs?

Would the amortisation period of

any asset recognised be one

year or less?

Yes

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 374

Consider the following example from the FASB TRG agenda paper:

384

Example of fixed employee salaries

An entity pays an employee an annual salary of CU100,000. The employee’s

salary is based on the number of contracts he or she signed for the prior

year, as well as the number of contracts the employee is expected to sign for

the current year. The employee’s current year salary will not change if the

number of contracts the employee actually signs differs from the projected

number. However, any difference would affect the employee’s salary in the

following year.

FASB TRG members generally agreed that no portion of the employee’s

salary should be capitalised because it is not an incremental cost of obtaining

a contract. The employee’s salary would have been incurred regardless of

the number of contracts the employee has actually signed during the current

year.

The standard cites sales commissions as a type of an incremental cost that may

require capitalisation under the standard. For example, commissions that

are related to sales from contracts signed during the period may represent

incremental costs that would require capitalisation. The standard does not

explicitly address considerations for different types of commission programmes.

Therefore, entities have to exercise judgement to determine whether sales

commissions are incremental costs and, if so, the point in time when the costs

would be capitalised. However, FASB TRG members generally agreed that

an employee’s title or level in the organisation or how directly involved the

employee is in obtaining the contract, are not factors in assessing whether

a sales commission is incremental. Consider the following example from a FASB

TRG paper:

385

Example of commissions paid to different levels of employees

An entity’s salesperson receives a 10% sales commission on each contract

that he or she obtains. In addition, the following employees of the entity

receive sales commissions on each signed contract negotiated by the

salesperson: 5% to the manager and 3% to the regional manager.

FASB TRG members generally agreed that all of the commissions are

incremental because the commissions would not have been incurred if

the contract had not been obtained. IFRS 15 does not distinguish between

commissions paid to the employee(s) based on the function or the title of the

employee(s) that receives a commission. It is the entity that decides which

employee(s) are entitled to a commission as a result of obtaining a contract.

We believe that commissions that are paid to a third party in relation to

sales from contracts that were signed during the period may also represent

incremental costs that would require capitalisation. That is, commissions paid

to third parties should be evaluated in the same manner as commissions paid to

employees in order to determine whether they are required to be capitalised.

See Questions 9-6 and 9-7 below for additional examples provided in the

November 2016 FASB TRG agenda paper on how to apply the incremental cost

requirements. In addition, entities need to carefully evaluate all compensation

384

FASB TRG Agenda paper no. 57, Capitalization and Amortization of Incremental Costs of

Obtaining a Contract, dated 7 November 2016.

385

FASB TRG Agenda paper no. 57, Capitalization and Amortization of Incremental Costs of

Obtaining a Contract, dated 7 November 2016.

375 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

plans, not just sales commission plans, to determine whether any plans contain

incremental costs that need to be capitalised. For example, payments under

a compensation ’bonus’ plan may be solely tied to contracts that are obtained.

Such costs would be capitalised if they are incremental costs of obtaining a

contract, irrespective of the title of the plan.

Illustration 9-3 — Commissions paid to a pool of funds

Assume that an entity has a compensation plan for support personnel in its

sales department. As a group, the employees are entitled to a pool of funds

calculated based on 2% of all new contracts signed during the monthly period.

Once the amount of the pool is known, the amount paid to each individual

employee is determined based on each employee’s rating.

While the amount paid to each employee is discretionary (based on each

employee’s rating), the total amount of the pool is considered an incremental

cost to obtain a contract because the entity owes that amount to the

employees (as a group) simply because a contract was signed.

TRG members discussed the underlying principle for capitalising costs under the

standard and generally agreed that entities first need to refer to the applicable

liability standard (e.g., IAS 37, IFRS 9) to determine when they are required to

accrue for certain costs. Entities then use the requirements in IFRS 15 to

determine whether the related costs need to be capitalised. TRG members

acknowledged that certain aspects of the cost requirements require entities to

apply significant judgement in analysing the facts and circumstances and

determining the appropriate accounting treatment.

386

In addition, the IASB staff observed in a TRG agenda paper that incremental

costs of obtaining a contract are not limited to initial incremental costs.

Commissions recognised subsequent to contract inception (e.g., commissions

paid on modifications, commissions subject to contingent events or clawback)

because they did not meet the recognition criteria for liabilities at contract

inception would still be considered for capitalisation as costs to obtain the

contract when the liability is recognised. This would include costs related

to contract renewals because, as the TRG agenda paper said, a renewal is a

contract and there is nothing in the requirements for costs to obtain a contract

that suggests a different treatment for contracts that are renewals of existing

contracts. That is, the only difference between the two costs would be the

timing of recognition based on when a liability has been incurred.

387

See

Question 9-8 below for additional discussion of capitalising commissions paid on

contract modifications.

Unlike many commissions, some incentive payments, such as bonuses and other

compensation that are based on quantitative or qualitative metrics that are not

related to contracts obtained (e.g., profitability, earnings per share (EPS),

performance evaluations) are unlikely to meet the criteria for capitalisation,

because they are not incremental to obtaining a contract. However, a legal

contingency cost may be an incremental cost of obtaining a contract, for

example, when a lawyer is entitled to be paid only upon the successful

completion of a negotiation. Determining which costs must be capitalised under

the standard may require judgement and it is possible that some contract

386

TRG agenda paper no. 23, Incremental costs of obtaining a contract, dated 26 January

2015.

387

TRG agenda paper no. 23, Incremental costs of obtaining a contract, dated 26 January

2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 376

acquisition costs are determined to be incremental and others are not. Consider

the following example from a FASB TRG agenda paper:

388

Example of incremental and non-incremental costs for same contract

An entity pays a 5% sales commission to its employees when they obtain

contracts with customers. An employee begins negotiating a contract with

a prospective customer and the entity incurs CU5,000 in legal and travel

costs in the process of trying to obtain the contract. The customer ultimately

enters into a CU500,000 contract and, as a result, the employee receives

a sales commission of CU25,000.

FASB TRG members generally agreed that the entity should only capitalise

the commission paid to the employee of CU25,000. This cost is the only one

that is incremental to obtaining the contract. While the entity incurs other

costs that are necessary to facilitate a sale (e.g., legal, travel), those costs

would have been incurred even if the contract had not been obtained.

The standard provides the following example regarding incremental costs of

obtaining a contract:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 36 — Incremental costs of obtaining a contract (IFRS 15.IE189-

IE191)

An entity, a provider of consulting services, wins a competitive bid to provide

consulting services to a new customer. The entity incurred the following costs

to obtain the contract:

External legal fees for due diligence

15,000

Travel costs to deliver proposal

25,000

Commissions to sales employees

10,000

Total costs incurred

50,000

In accordance with paragraph 91 of IFRS 15, the entity recognises an asset

for the CU10,000 incremental costs of obtaining the contract arising from

the commissions to sales employees because the entity expects to recover

those costs through future fees for the consulting services. The entity also

pays discretionary annual bonuses to sales supervisors based on annual

sales targets, overall profitability of the entity and individual performance

evaluations. In accordance with paragraph 91 of IFRS 15, the entity does

not recognise an asset for the bonuses paid to sales supervisors because

the bonuses are not incremental to obtaining a contract. The amounts are

discretionary and are based on other factors, including the profitability of

the entity and the individuals’ performance. The bonuses are not directly

attributable to identifiable contracts.

The entity observes that the external legal fees and travel costs would have

been incurred regardless of whether the contract was obtained. Therefore,

in accordance with paragraph 93 of IFRS 15, those costs are recognised

as expenses when incurred, unless they are within the scope of another

Standard, in which case, the relevant provisions of that Standard apply.

388

FASB TRG Agenda paper no. 57, Capitalization and Amortization of Incremental Costs of

Obtaining a Contract, dated 7 November 2016.

377 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

As a practical expedient, the standard permits an entity to immediately expense

contract acquisition costs when the asset that would have resulted from

capitalising such costs would have been amortised within one year or less. It

is important to note that the amortisation period for incremental costs may

not always be the initial contract term. See section 9.3.3 for discussion of the

amortisation of capitalised contract costs.

What’s changed from legacy IFRS?

The requirements in IFRS 15 represented a significant change in practice for

entities that previously expensed the costs of obtaining a contract and were

required to capitalise them under IFRS 15. Entities need to evaluate all sales

commissions paid to employees and capitalise any costs that are incremental,

regardless of how directly involved the employee was in the sales process or the

level or title of the employee.

In addition, entities that previously capitalised costs to obtain a contract may

have faced changes on transition to IFRS 15, particularly if the amounts

previously capitalised were not incremental and, therefore, were not be eligible

for capitalisation under IFRS 15 (unless explicitly chargeable to the customer

regardless of whether the contract is obtained).

Frequently asked questions

Question 9-6: Does the timing of commission payments affect whether

they are incremental costs? [FASB TRG meeting 7 November 2016 -

Agenda paper no. 57]

It depends. FASB TRG members generally agreed that the timing of

commission payments does not affect whether the costs would have been

incurred if the contract had not been obtained. However, there could be

additional factors or contingencies that would need to be considered in

different commission plans that could affect the determination of whether

all (or a portion) of a cost is incremental. Consider the following example

from a FASB TRG agenda paper:

Example of timing of commission payments

An entity pays an employee a 4% sales commission on a CU50,000 signed

contract with a customer. For cash flow management purposes, the entity

pays the employee half of the commission (i.e., 2% of the total contract

value) upon completion of the sale and the remainder in six months’ time.

The employee is entitled to receive the unpaid commission even if he or

she is no longer employed by the entity when payment is due.

FASB TRG members generally agreed that the entity would capitalise the

entire commission in this example (the timing of which would coincide

with the recognition of the related liability). That is, the entity would not

just capitalise the portion it paid immediately and expense the rest.

In this fact pattern, only the passage of time is required for the entity to

pay the second half of the commission. For example, in some commission

plans, the employee will only be entitled to the second half of the

commission payment if the employee is still employed by the entity when

the commission is due. For such plans, an entity needs to carefully evaluate

whether the requirement to remain employed in order to receive the

commission (i.e., the service vesting condition) is substantive.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 378

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

We believe the second half of the commission payment would not be

incremental if the service condition is substantive because other conditions

are necessary, beyond simply obtaining the contract, for the entity to incur

the cost.

If the entity’s payment of a commission is only ‘contingent’ on a customer

paying the amount due in the obtained contract, we do not believe

this would influence the determination of whether the commission is

an incremental cost, provided the contract meets the Step 1 criteria to

be accounted for as a contract under the five-step model. However, if there

is an extended payment term (i.e., there is a significant amount of time

between contract signing and the date in which the contract consideration is

due), the entity should consider whether there is a service condition or other

contingency, as discussed above.

Question 9-7: Should commission payments subject to a threshold be

considered incremental costs? [FASB TRG meeting 7 November 2016 -

Agenda paper no. 57]

Yes. FASB TRG members generally agreed that basing a commission on

a pool of contracts, rather than paying a set percentage for each contract,

would not affect the determination of whether the commissions would

have been incurred if the entity did not obtain the contracts with those

customers. Consider the following example in a TRG agenda paper:

Example of commission payments subject to a threshold

An entity has a commission programme that increases the amount of

commission a salesperson receives based on how many contracts

the salesperson has obtained during an annual period, as follows:

0-9 contracts

0% commission

10-19 contracts

2% of value of contracts 1-19

20+ contracts

5% of value of contracts 1-20+

FASB TRG members generally agreed that these costs are incremental

costs of obtaining a contract with a customer. Therefore, the costs

should be capitalised when the entity incurs a liability to pay these

commissions. The costs are incremental because the entity will pay

the commission under the programme terms as a result of entering into

the contracts. See Question 9-21 for discussion about the period over

which an entity would amortise a sales commission that is subject to a

threshold and is considered an incremental cost of obtaining a contract.

Question 9-8: Would an entity capitalise commissions paid on contract

modifications? [TRG meeting 26 January 2015 – Agenda paper no. 23]

Yes, if they are incremental (i.e., they would not have been incurred if

there had not been a modification) and recoverable. Contract modifications

are accounted for in one of three ways: (1) as a separate contract; (2) as

a termination of the existing contract and the creation of a new contract; or

(3) as part of the existing contract (see section 3.4 for further requirements

on contract modifications). In all three cases, commissions paid on contract

modifications are incremental costs of obtaining a contract and should be

capitalised if they are recoverable. In the first two cases, a new contract

is created, so the costs of obtaining that contract would be incremental.

379 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

The TRG agenda paper said that commissions paid on the modification

of a contract that is accounted for as part of the existing contract are

incremental costs even though they are not initial incremental costs.

Question 9-9: Would fringe benefits on commission payments be included

in the capitalised amounts? [TRG meeting 26 January 2015 – Agenda

paper no. 23]

Fringe benefits should be capitalised as part of the incremental cost of

obtaining a contract if the additional costs are based on the amount of

commissions paid and the commissions qualify as costs to obtain a contract.

However, if the costs of fringe benefits would have been incurred regardless

of whether the contract had been obtained (e.g., health insurance

premiums), the fringe benefits should not be capitalised. That is, an entity

cannot allocate fringe benefits to the commission and, therefore, capitalise a

portion of the costs of benefits it would provide regardless of whether the

commission was paid.

Question 9-10: Must an entity apply the practical expedient to expense

contract acquisition costs to all of its qualifying contracts across the entity

or can it apply the practical expedient to individual contracts?

We believe the practical expedient to expense contract acquisition costs

(that would, otherwise, be amortised over a period of one year or less) must

be applied consistently to contracts with similar characteristics and in similar

circumstances.

Question 9-11: How would an entity account for capitalised commissions

upon a modification of the contract that is treated as the termination of

an existing contract and the creation of a new contract?

We believe an asset recognised for incremental costs to obtain a contract

that exists when the related contract is modified should be carried forward

into the new contract, if the modification is treated as the termination of

an existing contract and the creation of a new contract and the goods or

services to which the original contract cost asset relates are part of the new

contract. This is because the contract cost asset relates to goods or services

that have not yet been transferred and the accounting for the modification

is prospective. This conclusion is similar to the one reached by FASB

TRG members in relation to the accounting for contract assets upon

a contract modification, as discussed in Question 10-5 in section 10.1.

The contract cost asset that remains on the entity’s balance sheet at

the date of modification would continue to be evaluated for impairment in

accordance with IFRS 15 (see section 9.3.4). In addition, an entity should

determine an appropriate amortisation period for the contract cost asset

(see section 9.3.3).

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 380

9.3.2 Costs to fulfil a contract (updated September 2019)

The standard divides contract fulfilment costs into two categories: (1) costs

that give rise to an asset; and (2) costs that are expensed as incurred. When

determining the appropriate accounting treatment for such costs, IFRS 15

makes it clear that any other applicable standards are considered first. If

those other standards preclude capitalisation of a particular cost, then an

asset cannot be recognised under IFRS 15. If other standards are not

applicable to contract fulfilment costs, IFRS 15 provides the following criteria

for capitalisation:

• The costs directly relate to a contract or to a specifically identifiable

anticipated contract (e.g., costs relating to services to be provided under

renewal of an existing contract or costs of designing an asset to be

transferred under a specific contract that has not yet been approved).

• The costs generate or enhance resources of the entity that will be used in

satisfying (or in continuing to satisfy) performance obligations in the future.

• The costs are expected to be recovered.

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If all of the criteria are met, an entity is required to capitalise the costs. The

following flow chart illustrates these requirements:

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IFRS 15.95.

Are the costs incurred to fulfil the contract

in the scope of another standard?

Do the costs relate directly to a contract or

specifically anticipated contract?

Yes

Apply the requirements in the other

standard.

Yes

Do the costs generate or enhance

resources of the entity that will be used in

satisfying performance obligations in the

future?

Are the costs expected to be recovered?

Yes

Recognise the fulfilment costs as an asset.

Expense the costs as incurred.

381 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Entities should consider how such costs were recognised under legacy IFRS. If

a cost was determined to be within the scope of another standard, and that

standard has not been superseded, we would expect the costs to remain within

the scope of that standard and not be accounted for under IFRS 15. However,

if, in the absence of a standard that specifically applied to this transaction, an

entity that previously developed and applied an accounting policy in accordance

with IAS 8 needs to consider whether the costs are within the scope of IFRS 15.

Standards that may be applicable to costs to fulfil a contract with a customer

include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Inventory costs within the scope of IAS 2, except for costs related to service

providers that were consequentially removed when IFRS 15 was issued

• Costs related to the acquisition of an intangible asset within the scope of

IAS 38

• Costs attributable to the acquisition or construction of property, plant and

equipment within the scope of IAS 16 or an investment property within the

scope of IAS 40

• Costs related to biological assets or agricultural produce within the scope of

IAS 41 Agriculture or bearer plants within the scope of IAS 16

Example 37 in the standard (included below) illustrates some costs that are

accounted for under other standards.

When determining whether costs meet the criteria for capitalisation in IFRS 15,

an entity must consider its specific facts and circumstances.

With regard to the first criterion, IFRS 15 states that costs can be capitalised

even if the contract with the customer is not yet finalised. However, rather than

allowing costs to be related to any potential future contract, the standard

requires that the costs relate directly to a specifically anticipated contract.

The standard provides examples of costs that may meet the first criterion for

capitalisation (i.e., costs that relate directly to the contract) as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

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97. Costs that relate directly to a contract (or a specific anticipated contract)

include any of the following:

(a) direct labour (for example, salaries and wages of employees who provide

the promised services directly to the customer);

(b) direct materials (for example, supplies used in providing the promised

services to a customer);

activities (for example, costs of contract management and supervision,

insurance and depreciation of tools, equipment and right-of-use assets

used in fulfilling the contract);

(d) costs that are explicitly chargeable to the customer under the contract;

and

(e) other costs that are incurred only because an entity entered into the

contract (for example, payments to subcontractors).

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Note that, when effective, IFRS 16 Leases consequentially amended IFRS 15.97(c) to

include, as an additional example, ‘right-of-use assets’.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 382

Significant judgement may be required to determine whether costs meet the

second criterion for capitalisation (i.e., the costs generate or enhance resources

of the entity that will be used in satisfying performance obligations in the

future). In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB explained that the standard only

results in the capitalisation of costs that meet the definition of an asset and

precludes an entity from deferring costs merely to normalise profit margins

throughout a contract (by allocating revenue and costs evenly over the contract

term).

391

For costs to meet the third criterion (i.e., the ’expected to be recovered’

criterion), they need to be either explicitly reimbursable under the contract or

reflected through the pricing on the contract and recoverable through margin.

If the criteria are not met, the costs incurred in fulfilling a contract do not give

rise to an asset and must be expensed as incurred. The standard provides some

common examples of costs that must be expensed as incurred, as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

98. An entity shall recognise the following costs as expenses when incurred:

(a) general and administrative costs (unless those costs are explicitly

chargeable to the customer under the contract, in which case an entity

shall evaluate those costs in accordance with paragraph 97);

(b) costs of wasted materials, labour or other resources to fulfil the contract

that were not reflected in the price of the contract;

satisfied performance obligations) in the contract (ie costs that relate

to past performance); and

(d) costs for which an entity cannot distinguish whether the costs relate

to unsatisfied performance obligations or to satisfied performance

obligations (or partially satisfied performance obligations).

IFRS 15.98(c) specifies that, if a performance obligation (or a portion of a

performance obligation that is satisfied over time) has been satisfied, fulfilment

costs related to that performance obligation (or portion thereof) can no longer

be capitalised. This is true even if the associated revenue has not yet been

recognised (e.g., the contract consideration is variable and has been fully or

partially constrained). Once an entity has begun satisfying a performance

obligation that is satisfied over time, it only capitalises fulfilment costs that

relate to future performance. Accordingly, it may be challenging for an entity to

capitalise costs that are related to a performance obligation that an entity has

already started to satisfy. Similarly, IFRS 15.98(d) specifies that, if an entity is

unable to determine whether certain costs relate to past or future performance

and the costs are not eligible for capitalisation under other IFRSs, the costs are

expensed as incurred.

The IFRS IC received a request about the recognition of costs incurred to fulfil a

contract in relation to a performance obligation that is satisfied over time. In

June 2019, the Committee concluded that IFRS 15 provides an adequate basis

for an entity to determine how to recognise the costs in the fact pattern and

decided not to add the matter to its agenda.

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IFRS 15.BC308.

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IFRIC Update, June 2019, available on the IASB’s website.

383 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The IFRS IC discussed this issue using the following example.

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Example of costs to fulfil a contract related to past performance

An entity enters into a contract with a customer to construct a building. It

identifies a single performance obligation, being the promise to transfer the

building to the customer, which it expects will take three years to complete.

The entity satisfies this performance obligation (and recognises revenue)

over time in accordance with IFRS 15.35(c) because the its performance does

not create an asset with alternative use and it has an enforceable right to

payment (see section 7.1.3).

At the end of the reporting period, the entity has begun constructing the

building and has incurred costs related to laying the foundation of the

building.

The IFRS IC noted that the foundation costs related to construction work

done on the partly-constructed building, which has been transferred to the

customer. Therefore, the costs relate to the entity’s past performance in

partially satisfying its performance obligation and in accordance with

IFRS 15.98(c), should be expensed as incurred. That is, the costs do not meet

the criteria to be recognised as an asset under IFRS 15.95.

The standard provides the following example that illustrates costs that are

capitalised under other IFRSs, costs that meet the capitalisation criteria and costs

that do not:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 37 — Costs that give rise to an asset (IFRS 15.IE192-IE196)

An entity enters into a service contract to manage a customer’s information

technology data centre for five years. The contract is renewable for

subsequent one-year periods. The average customer term is seven years.

The entity pays an employee a CU10,000 sales commission upon the

customer signing the contract. Before providing the services, the entity

designs and builds a technology platform for the entity’s internal use that

interfaces with the customer’s systems. That platform is not transferred

to the customer, but will be used to deliver services to the customer.

Incremental costs of obtaining a contract

In accordance with paragraph 91 of IFRS 15, the entity recognises an asset

for the CU10,000 incremental costs of obtaining the contract for the sales

commission because the entity expects to recover those costs through

future fees for the services to be provided. The entity amortises the asset

over seven years in accordance with paragraph 99 of IFRS 15, because the

asset relates to the services transferred to the customer during the contract

term of five years and the entity anticipates that the contract will be

renewed for two subsequent one-year periods.

Costs to fulfil a contract

The initial costs incurred to set up the technology platform are as follows:

Design services

40,000

Hardware

120,000

Software

90,000

Migration and testing of data centre

100,000

Total costs

350,000

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IFRS IC Agenda paper 2, March 2019, Costs to Fulfil a Contract (IFRS 15), available on the

IASB's website; and IFRIC Update June 2019, available on the IASB’s website.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 384

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

The initial setup costs relate primarily to activities to fulfil the contract but do

not transfer goods or services to the customer. The entity accounts for the

initial setup costs as follows:

(a) hardware costs—accounted for in accordance with IAS 16 Property, Plant

and Equipment.

(b) software costs—accounted for in accordance with IAS 38 Intangible

Assets.

accordance with paragraph 95 of IFRS 15 to determine whether an asset

can be recognised for the costs to fulfil the contract. Any resulting asset

would be amortised on a systematic basis over the seven-year period

(ie the five-year contract term and two anticipated one-year renewal

periods) that the entity expects to provide services related to the data

centre.

In addition to the initial costs to set up the technology platform, the entity

also assigns two employees who are primarily responsible for providing

the service to the customer. Although the costs for these two employees

are incurred as part of providing the service to the customer, the entity

concludes that the costs do not generate or enhance resources of the entity

(see paragraph 95(b) of IFRS 15). Therefore, the costs do not meet the

criteria in paragraph 95 of IFRS 15 and cannot be recognised as an asset

using IFRS 15. In accordance with paragraph 98, the entity recognises

the payroll expense for these two employees when incurred.

Frequently asked questions

Question 9-12: Can an entity defer costs of a transferred good or service

that would otherwise generate an upfront loss because variable

consideration is fully or partially constrained?

An entity should not defer the costs of a transferred good or service when

the application of the constraint on variable consideration results in an

upfront loss, even if the entity ultimately expects to recognise a profit on that

good or service, unless other specific requirements allow or require a deferral

of those costs. The criteria in IFRS 15 must be met to capitalise costs to fulfil

a contract, including the criterion that the costs must generate or enhance

resources of the entity that will be used in satisfying performance obligations

in the future. An entity recognises such costs when control of a good or

service transfers to the customer. As such, the cost of those sales would not

generate or enhance resources of the entity used to satisfy future

performance obligations.

Consider the following example: An entity sells goods with a cost of

CU500,000 for consideration of CU600,000. The goods have a high risk

of obsolescence, which may require the entity to provide price concessions

in the future, resulting in variable consideration (see section 5.2.1.A). The

entity constrains the transaction price and concludes that it is highly probable

that CU470,000 will not result in a significant revenue reversal, even though

the entity reasonably expects the contract to ultimately be profitable. When

control transfers, the entity recognises revenue of CU470,000 and costs of

CU500,000. It would not capitalise the loss of CU30,000 because the loss

does not generate or enhance resources of the entity that will be used in

satisfying performance obligations in the future.

385 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 9-13: How should an entity account for fulfilment costs incurred

prior to the contract establishment date that are outside the scope of

another standard (e.g., IAS 2)? [TRG meeting 30 March 2015 – Agenda

paper no. 33]

Entities sometimes begin activities on a specifically anticipated contract

before the contract establishment date (e.g., before agreeing to the contract

with the customer, before the contract satisfies the criteria to be accounted

for under IFRS 15). TRG members generally agreed that costs in respect of

pre-contract establishment date activities that relate to a good or service

that will transfer to the customer at or after the contract establishment

date may be capitalised as costs to fulfil a specifically anticipated contract.

However, TRG members noted that such costs would still need to meet the

other criteria in the standard to be capitalised (e.g., they are expected to

be recovered under the anticipated contract).

Subsequent to capitalisation, costs that relate to goods or services that are

transferred to the customer at the contract establishment date would be

expensed immediately. Any remaining capitalised contract costs would be

amortised over the period that the related goods or services are transferred

to the customer.

For requirements on recognising revenue for a performance obligation

satisfied over time when activities are completed before the contract

establishment date, see Question 7-19 in section 7.1.4.C.

Question 9-14: How are the effects of learning curve costs addressed in

IFRS 15?

As discussed in the Basis for Conclusions on IFRS 15, “a ‘learning curve’ is the

effect of efficiencies realised over time when an entity’s costs of performing

a task (or producing a unit) decline in relation to how many times the entity

performs that task (or produces that unit)”.

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Learning curve costs usually

consist of materials, labour, overhead, rework or other costs that must

be incurred to complete the contract (but do not include research and

development costs). These types of efficiencies generally can be predicted

at inception of an arrangement and are often considered in the pricing of

a contract between an entity and a customer.

The IASB noted that in situations where learning curve costs are incurred in

relation to a contract with a customer accounted for as a single performance

obligation that is satisfied over time to deliver a specified number of units,

IFRS 15 requires an entity to select a method of progress that depicts

the transfer over time of the good or service to the customer (see

section 7.1.4).

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The IASB further noted that an entity would probably

select a method (such as a costs incurred measure of progress) for these

types of contracts, which would result in the entity recognising more revenue

and expense at the beginning of the contract relative to the end. The IASB

clarified that this would be appropriate as an entity would charge a higher

price to a customer only purchasing one unit (rather than multiple units) in

order to recover its learning curve costs.

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IFRS 15.BC312

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IFRS 15.BC313

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 386

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Conversely, when learning curve costs are incurred for a performance

obligation satisfied at a point in time (rather than over time), an entity needs

to assess whether those costs are within the scope of another standard. The

IASB noted that in situations in which an entity incurs cost to fulfil a contract

without also satisfying a performance obligation over time, the entity is

probably creating an asset that is within the scope of another standard

(e.g., IAS 2).

396

For example, if within the scope of IAS 2, the costs of

producing the components would accumulate as inventory in accordance with

the requirements in IAS 2. The entity would then recognise revenue when

control of the inventory transfers to the customer. In that situation, no

learning curve costs would be capitalised under IFRS 15 as the costs would be

in the scope of another standard.

If the learning curve costs are not within the scope of another standard, we

believe they generally will not be eligible for capitalisation under IFRS 15

(e.g., because the costs relate to past (and not future) performance).

Question 9-15: How should an entity account for pre-contract or setup

costs?

Pre-contract costs are often incurred in anticipation of a contract and will

result in no future benefit unless the contract is obtained. Examples include:

(1) engineering, design or other activities performed on the basis of

commitments, or other indications of interest, by a customer; (2) costs for

production equipment and materials relating to specifically anticipated

contracts (e.g., costs for the purchase of production equipment, materials or

supplies); and (3) costs incurred to acquire or produce goods in excess of

contractual requirements in anticipation of subsequent orders for the same

item.

Pre-contract costs that are incurred in anticipation of a specific contract

should first be evaluated for capitalisation under other standards (e.g., IAS 2,

IAS 16, IAS 38). For example, pre-contract costs incurred to acquire or

produce goods in excess of contractual requirements for an existing contract

in anticipation of subsequent orders for the same item would likely be

evaluated under IAS 2. Some other examples include costs incurred to move

newly acquired equipment to its intended location, which could be required to

be capitalised under IAS 16 (see Question 9-16), and employee training costs

that are expensed in accordance with IAS 38.

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Pre-contract costs incurred in anticipation of a specific contract that are not

addressed under other standards are capitalised under IFRS 15 only if they

meet all of the criteria of a cost incurred to fulfil a contract. Pre-contract

costs that do not meet the criteria under IFRS 15 are expensed as incurred.

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IFRS 15.BC315

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IFRS IC Agenda paper 2, September 2019, Training Costs to Fulfil a Contract (IFRS 15),

available on the IASB's website; and IFRIC Update September 2019, available on the IASB’s

website.

387 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 9-16: Can mobilisation costs be capitalised as costs to fulfil

a contract with a customer under IFRS 15?

Entities incur mobilisation costs when moving personnel, equipment and

supplies to a project site either before, at or after inception of a contract

with a customer. They are incurred in order to ensure that the entity is in

a position to fulfil its promise(s) in a contract (or specifically anticipated

contract) with a customer, rather than transferring a good or service to

a customer (i.e., they are not a promised good or service).

The assessment of whether mobilisation costs can be capitalised depends on

the specific facts and circumstances and may require significant judgement.

Entities need to ensure that the costs are: (1) within the scope of IFRS 15;

and (2) meet all of the criteria in IFRS 15.95 to be capitalised.

Are the costs within the scope of IFRS 15?

If the asset being moved (e.g., equipment in the scope of IAS 16, inventory

in the scope of IAS 2) is in the scope of another standard, an entity should

determine whether the mobilisation costs are specifically addressed by the

other standard; if so, the cost is outside the scope of IFRS 15.

If the mobilisation costs are not specifically addressed in another standard,

or it is not clear whether these are within the scope of another standard,

an entity further analyses whether the mobilisation costs are:

•

Specific to the asset being moved or applicable to more than one

customer under unrelated contracts; in the latter case it is likely that

they would not be within the scope of IFRS 15. For example, moving

an asset between different premises of the entity to better utilise the

asset in preparation for future contracts with many customers;

•

Specific to the contract with the customer, in which case, it would be

within the scope of IFRS 15. For example, moving an asset to a remote

location at the customer’s request, which does not provide a benefit to

the entity beyond ensuring it is in a position to fulfil its obligation(s) to

the customer under the contract.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 388

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Do the costs meet the criteria in IFRS 15.95 to be capitalised?

As discussed above, IFRS 15 includes three criteria that must be met for

costs to fulfil a contract within its scope can be capitalised:

(a) Entities may need to use judgement to determine if costs relate

directly to a contract (or a specifically anticipated contract) as required in

IFRS 15.95(a). Indicators that a cost, by function rather than by nature,

may be directly related include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The costs are explicitly or implicitly chargeable to the customer

under the contract.

• The costs are incurred only because the entity entered into the

contract.

• The contract explicitly or implicitly refers to mobilisation activities

(e.g., that the entity must move equipment to a specific location).

• The location in which the entity must perform is explicitly or implicitly

specified in the contract and the mobilisation costs are incurred in

order for the entity to fulfil its promise(s) to the customer.

(b) Significant judgement may also be required to determine whether costs

generate or enhance resources of the entity that will be used in satisfying

performance obligations in the future as required by IFRS 15.95(b). This

determination would include (but not be limited to) considering whether:

• The costs are incurred in order for the entity to be able to fulfil the

contract

And

• Location is implicitly or explicitly an attribute of the contract.

If a performance obligation (or a portion of a performance obligation that

is satisfied over time) has been satisfied, fulfilment costs related to that

performance obligation (or portion thereof) can no longer be capitalised

(see section 9.3.2 for further discussion).

IFRS 15.95(c), they need to be either explicitly reimbursable under the

contract or reflected through the pricing on the contract and recoverable

through margin.

Question 9-17: Can an entity defer losses incurred on a contract by

capitalising related fulfilment costs when it is expected to generate future

profits on the sale of optional goods or services (i.e., loss leader)?

No. Certain contracts may be executed as part of a loss leader strategy in

which a good is sold at a loss with an expectation that future sales contracts

will result in higher sales and/or profits. In determining whether these

anticipated contracts should be part of the accounting for the existing

loss leader contract, entities need to refer to the definition of a contract in

IFRS 15, which is based on enforceable rights and obligations in the existing

contract (see section 3.1). While it may be probable that the customer

will enter into a future contract or the customer may even be economically

compelled, or compelled by regulation to do so, it would not be appropriate

to account for an anticipated contract when there is an absence of

enforceable rights and obligations.

389 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

In addition, if the fulfilment costs incurred during satisfying the initial

contract are within the scope of other accounting standards (e.g., IAS 2),

the entity must account for those costs under that relevant standard. Even if

the costs are not within the scope of another standard, the costs would relate

to a satisfied or partially satisfied performance obligation (i.e., the original

contract priced at a loss) and, therefore, must be expensed as incurred.

IFRS 15 does not permit an entity to defer fulfilment costs or losses incurred

based on the expectation of profits in a future contract.

9.3.3 Amortisation of capitalised contract costs (updated September 2019)

Any capitalised contract costs are amortised, with the expense recognised on a

systematic basis that is consistent with the entity’s transfer of the related goods

or services to the customer.

IFRS 15.99 states that capitalised contract costs are amortised on a systematic

basis that is consistent with the transfer to the customer of the goods or

services to which the asset relates. When the timing of revenue recognition

(e.g., at a point in time, over time) aligns with the transfer of the goods or

services to the customer, the amortisation of the capitalised contract costs in a

reporting period will correspond with the revenue recognition in that reporting

period. However, the timing of revenue recognition may not always align with

the transfer of the goods and services to the customer (e.g., when variable

consideration is constrained at the time the related performance obligation is

satisfied). When this occurs, the amortisation of the capitalised contract costs

will not correspond with the revenue recognition in a reporting period.

For example, consider an entity that enters into a contract with a customer

with two performance obligations: (a) a right-to-use licence; and (b) a related

service for three years. Further assume that payment from the customer is

based on the customer’s usage of the intellectual property (i.e., a usage-based

royalty). Revenue in respect of the licence of intellectual property would be

recognised at a point in time (see section 8.3.2) and revenue in respect of the

related service would be recognised over time. The transaction price allocated

to the performance obligation for the licence of intellectual property cannot be

recognised at the point in time when control of the licence transfers to the

customer due to the royalty recognition constraint (see section 8.5).

Accordingly, any capitalised contract costs that relate to the licence need to be

fully amortised upon the transfer of control of that licence (i.e., at a point in

time), regardless of when the related revenue will be recognised. Any

capitalised contract costs that relate to the services need to be amortised over

the period of time consistent with the transfer of control of the service.

It is important to note that capitalised contract costs may relate to multiple

goods or services (e.g., design costs to manufacture multiple distinct goods

when design services are not a separate performance obligation) in a single

contract. In such instances, the amortisation period could be the entire contract

term. The amortisation period could also extend beyond a single contract, if the

capitalised contract costs relate to goods or services being transferred under

multiple contracts or to a specifically anticipated contract (e.g., certain contract

renewals).

In these situations, the capitalised contract costs would be amortised over a

period that is consistent with the transfer to the customer of the goods or

services to which the asset relates. This can also be thought of as the expected

period of benefit of the asset capitalised. The expected period of benefit may be

the expected customer relationship period, but that is not always the case. To

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 390

determine the appropriate amortisation period, an entity needs to evaluate the

type of capitalised contract costs, what the costs relate to and other facts and

circumstances of the specific arrangement. Furthermore, before including

estimated renewals in the period of benefit, an entity needs to evaluate its

history with renewals, to conclude that such an estimate is supportable.

An entity updates the amortisation period when there is a significant change

in the expected timing of transfer to the customer of the goods or services

to which the asset relates (and accounts for such a change as a change in

accounting estimate in accordance with IAS 8), as illustrated in the following

example:

Illustration 9-4 — Amortisation period

Entity A enters into a three-year contract with a new customer for

transaction processing services. To fulfil the contract, Entity A incurred set-

up costs of CU60,000, which it capitalised in accordance with IFRS 15.95-98

and will amortise over the term of the contract.

At the beginning of the third year, the customer renews the contract for

an additional two years. Entity A will benefit from the initial set-up costs

during the additional two-year period. Therefore, it changes the remaining

amortisation period from one year to three years and adjusts the

amortisation expense in the period of the change and future periods

in accordance with the requirements in IAS 8 for changes in accounting

estimates. The disclosure requirements of IAS 8 related to changes in

estimates are also applicable.

However, under IFRS 15, if Entity A had been in the position to anticipate

the contract renewal at contract inception, Entity A would have amortised

the set-up costs over the anticipated term of the contract including the

expected renewal (i.e., five years).

Determining the amortisation period for incremental costs of obtaining a

contract with a customer can be complicated, especially when contract

renewals are expected and the commission rates are not constant throughout

the entire life of the contract.

When evaluating whether the amortisation period for a sales commission

extends beyond the original contract period, an entity would also evaluate

whether an additional commission is paid for subsequent renewals. If so, it

evaluates whether the renewal commission is considered ‘commensurate’ with

the original commission. See Question 9-18 below for further discussion on

whether a commission is commensurate. In the Basis for Conclusions, the IASB

explained that amortising the asset over a longer period than the initial contract

would not be appropriate if an entity pays a commission on a contract renewal

that is commensurate with the commission paid on the initial contract. In that

case, the costs of obtaining the initial contract do not relate to the subsequent

contract.

398

An entity would also need to evaluate the appropriate amortisation

period for any renewal commissions that are required to be capitalised under

IFRS 15 in a similar manner. See Question 9-19 below for the FASB TRG’s

discussion of how an entity should determine the amortisation period of an

asset recognised for the incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a

customer.

398

IFRS 15.BC309.

391 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

How we see it

The revenue standard required a significant change in practice for entities

that had historically amortised sales commissions over the non-cancellable

term of the initial contract. Under IFRS 15, entities are required to evaluate

whether the period of benefit is longer than the term of the initial contract.

As discussed above, it is likely that an entity would be required to amortise

the capitalised sales commission cost over a period longer than the initial

contract, if a renewal commission is not paid or a renewal commission is paid

that is not commensurate with the original commission.

In determining the appropriate amortisation period or the period of benefit

for capitalised contract costs, an entity considers its facts and circumstances

and may use judgement similar to that used when estimating the

amortisation period for intangible assets (e.g., a customer relationship

intangible acquired in a business combination). This could include

considering factors such as customer retention and how quickly the entity’s

products and services change.

It is important for entities to document the judgements they make

when determining the appropriate amortisation period and disclose the

same in their financial statements. IFRS 15 disclosure requirements (see

section 10.5.3) include judgements made in determining the amounts

of costs that are capitalised, the amortisation method chosen and other

quantitative disclosures.

Frequently asked questions

Question 9-18: How should an entity determine whether a commission on

a renewal contract is commensurate with the commission on the initial

contract? [FASB TRG meeting 7 November 2016 - Agenda paper no. 57]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that the commissions would have to

be reasonably proportional to the contract values (e.g., 5% of both the initial

and renewal contract values) to be considered commensurate. FASB TRG

members also generally agreed that it would not be reasonable for an entity

to use a ’level of effort’ analysis to determine whether a commission is

commensurate. For example, a 6% commission on an initial contract and a

2% commission on a renewal would not be commensurate even if the

declining commission rate corresponds to the level of effort required to

obtain the contracts.

As discussed above in section 9.3.3, if the renewal commission is considered

to be commensurate with the commission on the initial contract, it would not

be appropriate to amortise any asset for the initial commission over a longer

period than the initial contract. In contrast, it is likely that it would be

appropriate to amortise the asset over a longer period than the initial

contract if the commissions are not considered to be commensurate (such as

in the example above). See Question 9-19 below for discussion of how an

entity determines this longer amortisation period.

Although the TRG did not discuss this, entities would also need to evaluate

whether any expected subsequent renewal commissions are commensurate

with prior renewal commissions to determine the appropriate amortisation

period for any renewal commissions that are required to be capitalised under

IFRS 15. Continuing the above example, assume the original three-year

contract (for which a 6% commission is paid) and each subsequent renewal

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 392

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

contract (for which a 2% renewal commission is paid) is for a one-year term.

If the entity expects to renew the contract in years two through four and

continue to pay a constant 2% commission upon each renewal, each renewal

commission would be considered commensurate. As a result, it is likely

that the appropriate amortisation period for each renewal required to be

capitalised would be one year. See Question 9-22 below for discussion of

when an entity would begin to amortise an asset recognised for the

incremental cost of obtaining a renewal contract.

Question 9-19: How should an entity determine the amortisation period of

an asset recognised for the incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a

customer? [FASB TRG meeting 7 November 2016 - Agenda paper no. 57

and TRG meeting 26 January 2015 - Agenda paper no. 23]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that when an entity determines an

amortisation period that is consistent with the transfer to the customer of

the goods or services to which the asset relates, it must determine whether

the capitalised contract costs relate only to goods or services that will be

transferred under the initial contract, or whether the costs also relate to goods

or services that will be transferred under a specifically anticipated contract.

For example, if an entity only pays a commission based on the initial contract

and does not expect the customer to renew the contract (e.g., based on its

past experience or other relevant information), amortising the asset over the

initial term would be appropriate.

However, if the entity’s past experience indicates that the customer is likely

to renew the contract, the amortisation period would be longer than the initial

term if the renewal commission is not ’commensurate’ with the initial

commission. See Question 9-18 above for a discussion of commensurate.

FASB TRG members generally agreed that an entity needs to evaluate its

facts and circumstances to determine an appropriate amortisation period if

it determines that the period should extend beyond the initial contract term,

because the commission on the renewal contract is not commensurate with

the commission on the initial contract. An entity might reasonably conclude

that its average customer life is the best estimate of the amortisation period

that is consistent with the transfer of the goods or services to which the asset

relates (e.g., if the good or service does not change over time, such as a

health club membership). However, FASB TRG members generally agreed

that this approach is not required and that entities should not use this as a

default. FASB TRG members noted that entities would use judgement that is

similar to judgement used when estimating the amortisation period for

intangible assets (e.g., a customer relationship intangible acquired in a

business combination) and could consider factors such as customer loyalty

and how quickly their products and services change.

Consider a technology entity that capitalises a commission earned on the

sale of software, which the entity estimates it will maintain and support for

only the next five years, and the estimated customer life is seven years.

In evaluating the period of benefit, the entity may reasonably conclude

the capitalised commission should be amortised over the five-year life of

the software to which the commission relates.

393 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

However, in a TRG agenda paper, the staff discussed two acceptable methods

for amortising capitalised contract costs that relate to both the original

contract and the renewals in cases in which the renewal commission is not

commensurate with the initial commission:

399

• The initial capitalised amount is amortised over the period of benefit that

includes expected renewals, while amounts capitalised that relate to

renewals are amortised over the renewal period.

• The portion of the initial capitalised amount that is commensurate is

amortised over the original contract term and the additional amount that

is not commensurate is amortised over the period of benefit that includes

expected renewals. Capitalised amounts that relate to renewals are

amortised over the renewal period.

Both methods are acceptable because they each meet the objective of

amortising the costs on a systematic basis that is consistent with the transfer

to the customer of the goods or services to which the asset relates. However,

an entity needs to select one method and apply it consistently in similar

circumstances. Other amortisation methods may also be acceptable if they

are consistent with the pattern of transfer to the customer of the goods or

services to which the asset relates.

The following example illustrates the two methods described in the TRG

agenda paper:

Illustration 9-5 — Methods for amortising capitalised contract costs

An entity has a commission plan that pays a 6% commission to a sales

representative each time that sales representative obtains a new contract

with a customer and a 2% commission each time that customer renews.

Based on the entity’s assessment of the requirements in IFRS 15 for

contract costs, it has concluded that the commissions earned as part of this

commission plan are incremental costs to obtain a contract that are

required to be capitalised. Furthermore, the entity has determined that the

2% commission paid for renewals is not commensurate with the 6%

commission paid for initial contracts and, therefore, the period of benefit

for capitalised commissions extends beyond the initial contract term.

The entity performs an assessment of average customer life, technology

turnover and competitive factors and concludes that the period of benefit

for capitalised commissions is five years.

The entity executes a three-year service contract with a customer for

CU600,000 and pays a 6% commission to the sales representative. At the

end of the three-year term, the customer renews the contract for two more

years for CU400,000 and the entity pays a 2% commission to the sales

representative.

The following are two acceptable methods for amortising the capitalised

contract costs related to the CU36,000 commission paid on the initial

contract and the CU8,000 commission paid on the renewal:

399

TRG Agenda paper no. 23, Incremental costs of obtaining a contract, dated 26 January

2015.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 394

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 9-5 — Methods for amortising capitalised contract costs

(cont’d)

Method 1

The CU36,000 commission related to the initial contract that was

capitalised is amortised over the five-year period of benefit. When the

contract is renewed, the CU8,000 commission related to the renewal that

was capitalised is amortised over the two-year renewal period. The

commission would be amortised, as follows:

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Initial commission

7,200

Renewal commission

—

4,000

Total amortisation

expense

7,200

11,200

Method 2

The CU36,000 commission related to the initial contract that was

capitalised is separated into two components: CU12,000 that is

commensurate with the commission paid on renewal (i.e., the amount of

commission that the CU600,000 initial contract earns at the commensurate

rate of 2%); and CU24,000 that is not commensurate. The entity amortises

the CU12,000 component over the three-year initial contract term and the

CU24,000 component over the five-year period of benefit. When the

contract is renewed, the CU8,000 commission related to the renewal that

was capitalised is amortised over the two-year renewal period. The

commission would be amortised, as follows:

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Initial commission

(not commensurate)

4,800

Initial commission

(commensurate)

4,000

—

Renewal commission

—

4,000

Total amortisation

expense

8,800

Question 9-20: Can an entity attribute the capitalised contract costs to

the individual performance obligations in the contract to determine the

appropriate amortisation period?

Yes. We believe an entity can attribute the capitalised contract costs to

individual performance obligations in the contract to determine the

appropriate amortisation period, but it is not required to do so. IFRS 15.99

states that the asset recognised is amortised on a systematic basis “that is

consistent with the transfer to the customer of the goods or services to

which the asset relates”. An entity may meet this objective by allocating

the capitalised contract costs to performance obligations on a relative basis

(i.e., in proportion to the transaction price allocated to each performance

obligation) to determine the period of amortisation.

400

TRG agenda paper no. 23, Incremental costs of obtaining a contract, dated 26 January

2015.

395 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Illustration 9-6 — Allocation of capitalised contract costs

A technology entity executes a contract for CU600,000 for a perpetual

software licence and one year of PCS. Based on the stand-alone selling

prices, the entity allocates CU500,000 (83%) of the total transaction price

to the licence and CU100,000 (17%) to the PCS. The entity pays a 4%

commission to the sales representative and has determined that the

commission is required to be capitalised under IFRS 15 because it is an

incremental cost of obtaining the contract. The entity concludes that the

CU24,000 sales commission needs to be allocated between the licence and

the PCS and amortised over the expected period of benefit associated with

each of those performance obligations. The entity allocates CU20,000

(83%) to the licence and CU4,000 (17%) to the PCS, consistent with the

relative value of the performance obligations to the transaction price.

Other methods for allocating capitalised contract costs may be appropriate.

For example, an entity may also meet the objective by allocating specific

capitalised contract costs to individual performance obligations when the

costs relate specifically to certain goods or services. An entity needs to have

objective evidence to support a conclusion that a specified amount of the

costs relates to a specific performance obligation and consistently apply

any methods used for allocating capitalised contract costs to performance

obligations.

In addition, as discussed above, an entity that attributes capitalised contract

costs to individual performance obligations needs to consider whether

the amortisation period for some or all of the performance obligations

should extend beyond the original contract (see 9.3.3 above).

Question 9-21: Over what period would an entity amortise a sales

commission (that is only paid once a threshold is met) that is determined

to be an incremental cost to obtain a contract? [TRG meeting 26 January

2015 – Agenda paper no. 23]

The TRG agenda paper indicated that two of the alternatives discussed might

meet the objective of amortising the costs on a systematic basis that is

consistent with the transfer to the customer of the goods or services to which

the asset relates. However, either alternative must be applied consistently to

similar circumstances. In one alternative, an entity allocated the capitalised

costs to all of the contracts that cumulatively resulted in the threshold being

met and amortised the costs over the expected customer relationship period

of each of those contracts. In the other alternative, an entity allocated the

capitalised costs to the contract that resulted in the threshold being met and

amortised the costs over the expected customer relationship period of that

contract. The TRG agenda paper noted that the second alternative may

result in a counterintuitive answer if the commission paid upon obtaining the

contract that resulted in the threshold being met was large in relation to

the transaction price for only that contract. While the first alternative may

be easier to apply and result in a more intuitive answer than the second

alternative in some situations, the TRG agenda paper noted that either

approach is acceptable. The TRG agenda paper did not contemplate all

possible alternatives.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 396

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Consider the following example in the TRG agenda paper:

Example of amortisation of capitalised commission payments

subject to a threshold

An entity has a commission programme that increases the amount of

commission a salesperson receives based on how many contracts the

salesperson has obtained during an annual period. In this example, the first

commission is paid when the first contract is signed. Subsequently, once

a cumulative threshold number of contracts is reached, a commission is

paid on that threshold contract as a fixed escalating amount, taking into

account any commission already paid, as follows:

1 contract CU3,000 commission

10 contracts CU5,000 cumulative commission (including CU3,000

already paid)

15 contracts CU10,000 cumulative commission (including CU5,000

already paid)

Assume 11 new contracts are signed by a specific employee in that period.

As discussed in Question 9-7, FASB TRG members generally agreed that

commission payments subject to a threshold are incremental costs of

obtaining a contract with a customer and, therefore, the costs should be

capitalised when the entity incurs a liability to pay these commissions.

In one acceptable alternative, an entity estimates the total amount of

commission that is expected to be paid for the period and capitalises an

equal amount as each contract is signed. In this example, because the

entity estimates that the employee will sign 11 new contracts during

the period, it expects the total amount of commission to be paid will be

CU5,000. The entity would capitalise CU455 when each contract is signed

(i.e., CU5,000 cumulative commission divided by the 11 contracts).

The capitalised amount would be amortised over the expected customer

relationship period of each of those contracts. That is, the CU455

capitalised for the first contract would be amortised over the expected

customer relationship period of the first contract and the CU455

capitalised for the second contract would be amortised over the expected

customer relationship period of the second contract.

In the other acceptable alternative, an entity capitalises CU3,000 in

commission costs upon signing the first contract. This amount would be

amortised over the expected customer relationship period of that contract

(i.e., the first contract). The entity would not capitalise any additional costs

upon signing the second contract through to the ninth contract because

the next commission ‘tier’ has not been met. Once the tenth contract is

signed, the entity capitalises an additional CU2,000 in commission costs.

This amount would be amortised over the expected customer relationship

period for that contract (i.e., the tenth contract).

397 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 9-22: When should an entity begin to amortise an asset

recognised for the incremental cost of obtaining a renewal contract?

As discussed in Question 9-18 above, assets recognised for commensurate

renewal commissions paid are amortised over the term of the contract

renewal, with the expense recognised as the entity transfers the related

goods or services to the customer.

We believe that the amortisation of the renewal commission should not begin

earlier than the beginning of the renewal period. Consider the following

illustration:

Illustration 9-7 — Amortisation of a capitalised contract costs

On 1 January 2018, an entity enters into a three-year service contract

with a customer that ends on 31 December 2020. Upon the customer

signing the contract, the entity pays a sales employee a CU50,000 sales

commission for obtaining the contract. On 30 September 2020, the entity

negotiates a three-year renewal term that will begin on 1 January 2021

and pays the sales employee a renewal commission that is commensurate

with the initial sales commission paid. Since the entity does not begin to

transfer services under the contract renewal until 1 January 2021, the

entity would not begin amortising the asset related to the renewal

commission until 1 January 2021.

Question 9-23: How should capitalised contract costs and their

amortisation be presented in the statement of financial position and

statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income, respectively?

As discussed above in sections 9.3.1 – 9.3.3, IFRS 15 requires incremental

costs of obtaining a contract and certain costs to fulfil a contract to be

recognised as an asset and that asset to be amortised on a systematic basis.

IFRS 15.128 requires separate disclosure of closing balances and the amount

of amortisation and impairment losses recognised during the period (see

section 10.5.3). However, the standard is silent on the classification of that

asset and the related amortisation.

Under legacy IFRS, IAS 2 included the notion of work in progress (or

‘inventory’) of a service provider. However, this was consequentially

removed from IAS 2 and replaced with the relevant requirements in IFRS 15.

Furthermore, while these capitalised contract cost assets are intangible, in

nature, IAS 38 specifically excludes from its scope intangible assets arising

from contracts with customers that are recognised in accordance with

IFRS 15.

401

In the absence of a standard that specifically deals with

classification and presentation of contract costs, management would need to

apply the requirements in IAS 8 to select an appropriate accounting policy.

402

401

IAS 38.3(i)

402

IAS 8.10-12.

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Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

In developing such an accounting policy, we believe that costs to obtain

a contract and costs to fulfil a contract need to be considered separately

for the purpose of presentation in financial statements:

• Considering the nature of costs to obtain a contract and the lack of

guidance in IFRS, we believe an entity may choose to present these costs

as either:

• A separate class of asset (similar in nature to work in progress or

‘inventory’) in the statement of financial position and its amortisation

within cost of goods sold, changes in contract costs or similar.

• A separate class of intangible assets in the statement of financial

position and its amortisation in the same line item as amortisation

of intangible assets within the scope of IAS 38. This accounting

treatment would be similar to the previous practice under legacy IFRS

of accounting for certain subscriber acquisitions costs in the

telecommunications industry.

In addition, the entity needs to consider the requirements in IAS 7

Statement of Cash Flows, in particular IAS 7.16(a), when determining

the classification of cash flows arising from costs to obtain a contract

(i.e., either as cash flow from operating activities or investing activities).

• In contrast, the nature of costs to fulfil a contract is such that they

directly impact the entity’s performance under the contract. Therefore,

costs to fulfil a contract should be presented as a separate class of asset

in the statement of financial position and its amortisation within cost of

goods sold, changes in contract costs or similar.

We do not believe it would be appropriate to analogise to the requirements

for intangible assets in IAS 38. Instead, such costs are consistent in nature

to costs incurred in the process of production, as is contemplated in IAS 2.

That is, in nature, they are consistent with work in progress, or ‘inventory’,

of a service provider. Therefore, whether costs to fulfil a contract meet the

criteria for capitalisation in IFRS 15.95 or are expensed as incurred, we

believe that presentation of such costs in the statement of profit and loss and

other comprehensive income and the presentation of related cash flows in the

statement of cash flows needs to be consistent.

Capitalised contract costs are subject to impairment assessments (see

section 9.3.4). Impairment losses are recognised in profit or loss, but the

standard is silent on where to present such amounts within the primary

financial statements. We believe it would be appropriate for the presentation

of any impairment losses to be consistent with the presentation of the

amortisation expense.

399 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

9.3.4 Impairment of capitalised contract costs (updated October 2018)

Capitalised contract costs must be tested for impairment. This is because the

costs that give rise to an asset must be recoverable throughout the contract

period (or period of benefit, if longer), to meet the criteria for capitalisation.

An impairment exists if the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the amount of

consideration the entity expects to receive in exchange for providing the

associated goods or services, less the remaining costs that relate directly to

providing those goods or services. Impairment losses are recognised in profit or

loss. Refer to Question 9-23 for further discussion on presenting impairment

losses within profit or loss.

TRG members generally agreed that an impairment test of capitalised contract

costs should include future cash flows associated with contract renewal or

extension periods, if the period of benefit of the costs under assessment is

expected to extend beyond the present contract.

403

In other words, an entity

should consider the total period over which it expects to receive economic

benefits relating to the asset, for the purpose of both determining the

amortisation period and estimating cash flows to be used in the impairment

test. The question was raised because of an inconsistency within IFRS 15.

IFRS 15 indicates that costs capitalised under the standard could relate to

goods or services to be transferred under ‘a specific anticipated contract’

(e.g., goods or services to be provided under contract renewals and/or

extensions).

404

The standard also indicates that an impairment loss would be

recognised when the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the remaining

amount of consideration expected to be received (determined by using

principles in IFRS 15 for determining the transaction price, see section 5

above).

405

However, the requirements for measuring the transaction price in

IFRS 15 indicate that an entity does not anticipate that the contract will be

“cancelled, renewed or modified” when determining the transaction price.

406

In some instances, excluding renewals or extensions would trigger an immediate

impairment of a contract asset because the consideration an entity expects to

receive would not include anticipated cash flows from contract extensions or

renewal periods. However, the entity would have capitalised contract costs

on the basis that they would be recovered over the contract extension or

renewal periods. When an entity determines the amount it expects to receive

(see section 5), the requirements for constraining estimates of variable

consideration are not considered. That is, if an entity were required to

reduce the estimated transaction price because of the constraint on variable

consideration, it would use the unconstrained transaction price for the

impairment test. While unconstrained, this amount must be reduced to

reflect the customer’s credit risk before it is used in the impairment test.

However, before recognising an impairment loss on capitalised contract costs

incurred to obtain or fulfil a contract, entities need to consider impairment

losses recognised in accordance with other standards (e.g., IAS 36

Impairment

of Assets

). After applying the impairment test to the capitalised contract costs,

an entity includes the resulting carrying amounts in the carrying amount of a

cash-generating unit for purposes of applying the requirements in IAS 36

403

TRG Agenda paper no. 4, Impairment testing of capitalised contract costs, dated 18 July

2014.

404

IFRS 15.99.

405

IFRS 15.101(a), 102.

406

IFRS 15.49.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 400

Under IFRS, IAS 36 permits the reversal of some or all of previous impairment

losses on assets (other than goodwill) or cash-generating units if the estimates

used to determine the assets’ recoverable amount have changed.

407

Consistent

with IAS 36, IFRS 15 permits reversal of impairment losses when impairment

conditions no longer exist or have improved. However, the increased carrying

amount of the asset must not exceed the amount that would have been

determined (net of amortisation) if no impairment loss had been recognised

previously.

408

FASB differences

Under US GAAP, the reversal of previous impairment losses is prohibited.

Frequently asked questions

Question 9-24: How often should an entity assess its capitalised contract

costs for impairment under IFRS 15?

IFRS 15 does not explicitly state how often an entity needs to assess its

capitalised contract costs for impairment. We believe an entity needs to

assess whether there is any indication that its capitalised contract costs

may be impaired at the end of each reporting period. This is consistent

with the requirement in IAS 36.9 to assess whether there are indicators

that assets within the scope of that standard are impaired.

407

IAS 36.109-125.

408

IFRS 15.104.

401 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

10. Presentation and disclosure

IFRS 15 provides explicit presentation and disclosure requirements, which

are more detailed than under legacy IFRS and increase the volume of required

disclosures that entities have to include in their interim and annual financial

statements. Many of the requirements in IFRS 15 involve information that

entities did not previously disclose.

In practice, the nature and extent of changes to an entity’s financial statements

depended on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the nature of its

revenue-generating activities and the level of information it had previously

disclosed.

As part of their adoption of IFRS 15, entities had to reassess their accounting

policy disclosures in accordance with IAS 1.

409

Under legacy IFRS, entities

provided brief and, sometimes, boilerplate disclosures of the policies in respect of

revenue recognition. The brevity may be due, in part, to the limited nature of the

guidance provided in legacy revenue recognition requirements. Given the

complexity of the requirements in IFRS 15, the policies that apply to revenues

and costs within the scope of the standard are also more challenging to explain

and require entities to provide more tailored and detailed disclosures.

The disclosure requirements discussed in the following sections are required

on an ongoing basis. Disclosures required as part of the transition to IFRS 15

are discussed in section 1.3.

Refer to our publication,

Applying IFRS: Presentation and disclosure requirements

of IFRS 15

, for further discussion on the presentation and disclosure

requirements and possible formats entities could use to disclose information

required by IFRS 15 using real-life and/or illustrative examples.

410

How we see it

As discussed more fully below, IFRS 15 significantly increased the volume

of disclosures required in entities’ financial statements, particularly annual

financial statements.

Entities had to expend additional effort when initially preparing the required

disclosures for their interim and annual financial statements. For example,

some entities operating in multiple segments with many different product

lines found it challenging to gather the data needed to provide the

disclosures. Therefore, it is important for entities to have the appropriate

systems, internal controls, policies and procedures in place to collect and

disclose the required information.

409

IAS 1.117.

410

Latest version of this publication is available at ey.com/IFRS.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 402

FASB differences

For US GAAP preparers, the standard provides requirements on

presentation and disclosure that apply to both public and non-public entities

and provide some relief on disclosure requirements for non-public entities.

The FASB’s standard defines a public entity as one of the following:

(i) A public business entity, as defined

(ii) A not-for-profit entity that has issued, or is a conduit bond obligor for,

securities that are traded, listed or quoted on an exchange or an over-

the-counter market

(iii) An employee benefit plan that files or furnishes financial statements

with the SEC

An entity that does not meet any of the criteria above is considered a non-

public entity for purposes of the FASB’s standard.

IFRS 15 does not differentiate between public and non-public entities.

Therefore, an entity that applies IFRS 15 must apply all of its requirements.

10.1 Presentation requirements for contract assets and

contract liabilities (updated September 2019)

The revenue model is based on the notion that a contract asset or contract

liability is generated when either party to a contract performs, depending on

the relationship between the entity’s performance and the customer’s payment.

The standard requires that an entity present these contract assets or contract

liabilities in the statement of financial position, as extracted below:

Extract from IFRS 15

105. When either party to a contract has performed, an entity shall present

the contract in the statement of financial position as a contract asset or

a contract liability, depending on the relationship between the entity's

performance and the customer's payment. An entity shall present any

unconditional rights to consideration separately as a receivable.

106. If a customer pays consideration, or an entity has a right to an amount of

consideration that is unconditional (ie a receivable), before the entity transfers

a good or service to the customer, the entity shall present the contract as a

contract liability when the payment is made or the payment is due (whichever

is earlier). A contract liability is an entity's obligation to transfer goods or

services to a customer for which the entity has received consideration (or

an amount of consideration is due) from the customer.

107. If an entity performs by transferring goods or services to a customer

before the customer pays consideration or before payment is due, the

entity shall present the contract as a contract asset, excluding any amounts

presented as a receivable. A contract asset is an entity's right to consideration

in exchange for goods or services that the entity has transferred to a

customer. An entity shall assess a contract asset for impairment in accordance

with IFRS 9. An impairment of a contract asset shall be measured, presented

and disclosed on the same basis as a financial asset that is within the scope of

IFRS 9 (see also paragraph 113(b)).

403 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Extract from IFRS 15 (cont’d)

108. A receivable is an entity's right to consideration that is unconditional.

A right to consideration is unconditional if only the passage of time is required

before payment of that consideration is due. For example, an entity would

recognise a receivable if it has a present right to payment even though that

amount may be subject to refund in the future. An entity shall account for a

receivable in accordance with IFRS 9. Upon initial recognition of a receivable

from a contract with a customer, any difference between the measurement

of the receivable in accordance with IFRS 9 and the corresponding amount

of revenue recognised shall be presented as an expense (for example, as an

impairment loss).

When an entity satisfies a performance obligation by transferring a promised

good or service, the entity has earned a right to consideration from the

customer and, therefore, has a contract asset. When the customer performs

first, for example, by prepaying its promised consideration, the entity has

a contract liability.

An entity could also have recognised other assets related to contracts with

a customer (e.g., the incremental costs of obtaining the contract and other

costs incurred that meet the criteria for capitalisation). The standard requires

that any such assets be presented separately from contract assets and contract

liabilities in the statement of financial position or disclosed separately in the

notes to the financial statements (assuming that they are material). These

amounts are also assessed for impairment separately (see section 9.3.3).

Distinction between contract assets and receivables

Contract assets may represent conditional or unconditional rights to

consideration. The right is conditional, for example, when an entity must first

satisfy another performance obligation in the contract before it is entitled to

payment from the customer. If an entity has an unconditional right to receive

consideration from the customer, the contract asset is accounted for as a

receivable and presented separately from other contract assets.

411

A right

is unconditional if nothing other than the passage of time is required before

payment of that consideration is due.

In the Basis for Conclusions on IFRS 15, the Board explains that in many cases

an unconditional right to consideration (i.e., a receivable) arises when an entity

satisfies a performance obligation, which could be before it invoices the customer

(e.g., an unbilled receivable) if only the passage of time is required before

payment of that consideration is due. It is also possible for an entity to have

an unconditional right to consideration before it satisfies a performance

obligation.

412

In some industries, it is common for an entity to invoice its

customers in advance of performance (and satisfaction of the performance

obligation). For example, an entity that enters into a non-cancellable contract

requiring payment a month before the entity provides the goods or services

would recognise a receivable and a contract liability on the date the entity has

an unconditional right to the consideration (see Question 10-6 below for factors

to consider when assessing whether an entity’s right to consideration is

considered unconditional). In this situation, revenue is not recognised until

goods or services are transferred to the customer.

411

IFRS 15.BC323-BC324.

412

IFRS 15.BC325.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 404

In December 2015, the IASB discussed application of IFRS 15 to contracts in

which the entity has transferred control of a good to the customer at a point in

time, but the consideration to which the entity is entitled is contingent upon a

market price (e.g., a commodity price), which will be determined at a future

date. The example assumed that there was no separable embedded derivative

(i.e., the entire contract was within the scope of IFRS 15). In discussing this

issue, the Board clarified the nature of conditions that might prevent

recognition of a receivable. Specifically, the Board agreed that the variability

arising solely from changes in the market price would not be a condition that

prevents an entity to recognise a receivable. That is, since the entity has

performed, “… nothing else (ie no future event) needs to happen before

payment of the consideration is due. The existence of a price in the future

requires no event to occur and depends solely on the passage of time. Changes

in the price of Commodity do not affect the entity’s right to consideration, even

though the amount that the entity receives is known only on the payment date.

In other words, there is no uncertainty with regards to the entity’s entitlement

to the consideration. The entity’s right to consideration is therefore

unconditional as understood by IFRS 15…”. Therefore, when the entity

performs by transferring control of the good to the customer, it recognises a

receivable in accordance with IFRS 9 (and is no longer subject to the

requirements in IFRS 15 for the variable consideration constraint).

413

In the Basis for Conclusions,

the Board noted that making the distinction

between a contract asset and a receivable is important because doing so

provides users of financial statements with relevant information about the

risks associated with the entity’s rights in a contract. Although both are subject

to credit risk, a contract asset also is subject to other risks (e.g., performance

risk).

414

Under the standard, entities are not required to use the terms ’contract asset’

or ’contract liability’, but must disclose sufficient information so that users of

the financial statements can clearly distinguish between unconditional rights

to consideration (receivables) and conditional rights to receive consideration

(contract assets).

415

413

IASB meeting, December 2015, Agenda paper no. 7H, Constraining estimates of variable

consideration when the consideration varies based on a future market price, dated

December 2015 and IASB Update, December 2015, available on the IASB’s website.

414

IFRS 15.BC323.

415

IFRS 15.109.

405 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

The standard provides the following example of presentation of contract

balances:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 38 — Contract liability and receivable (IFRS 15.IE198-IE200)

Case A—Cancellable contract

On 1 January 20X9, an entity enters into a cancellable contract to transfer

a product to a customer on 31 March 20X9. The contract requires the

customer to pay consideration of CU1,000 in advance on 31 January 20X9.

The customer pays the consideration on 1 March 20X9. The entity transfers

the product on 31 March 20X9. The following journal entries illustrate how

the entity accounts for the contract:

(a) The entity receives cash of CU1,000 on 1 March 20X9 (cash is received

in advance of performance):

Cash

CU1,000

Contract liability

CU1,000

(b) The entity satisfies the performance obligation on 31 March 20X9:

Contract liability

CU1,000

Revenue

CU1,000

Case B—Non-cancellable contract

The same facts as in Case A apply to Case B except that the contract is non-

cancellable. The following journal entries illustrate how the entity accounts

for the contract:

(a) The amount of consideration is due on 31 January 20X9 (which is when

the entity recognises a receivable because it has an unconditional right

to consideration):

Receivable

CU1,000

Contract liability

CU1,000

(b) The entity receives the cash on 1 March 20X9:

Cash

CU1,000

Receivable

CU1,000

Contract liability

CU1,000

Revenue

CU1,000

If the entity issued the invoice before 31 January 20X9 (the due date of the

consideration), the entity would not present the receivable and the contract

liability on a gross basis in the statement of financial position because the

entity does not yet have a right to consideration that is unconditional.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 406

The standard includes another example of presentation of contract balances

that illustrates when an entity has satisfied a performance obligation, but

does not have an unconditional right to payment and, therefore, recognises

a contract asset:

Extract from IFRS 15

Example 39 — Contract asset recognised for the entity's performance

(IFRS 15.IE201-IE204)

On 1 January 20X8, an entity enters into a contract to transfer Products A

and B to a customer in exchange for CU1,000. The contract requires

Product A to be delivered first and states that payment for the delivery

of Product A is conditional on the delivery of Product B. In other words,

the consideration of CU1,000 is due only after the entity has transferred

both Products A and B to the customer. Consequently, the entity does not

have a right to consideration that is unconditional (a receivable) until both

Products A and B are transferred to the customer.

The entity identifies the promises to transfer Products A and B as

performance obligations and allocates CU400 to the performance obligation

to transfer Product A and CU600 to the performance obligation to transfer

Product B on the basis of their relative stand-alone selling prices. The entity

recognises revenue for each respective performance obligation when control

of the product transfers to the customer.

The entity satisfies the performance obligation to transfer Product A:

Contract asset

CU400

Revenue

CU400

The entity satisfies the performance obligation to transfer Product B and to

recognise the unconditional right to consideration:

Receivable

CU1,000

Contract asset

CU400

Revenue

CU600

Current versus non-current

Unless an entity presents its statement of financial position on a liquidity basis,

it needs to present contract assets or contract liabilities as current or non-

current in the statement of financial position. Since IFRS 15 does not address

this classification, entities need to consider the requirements in IAS 1.

The distinction between current and non-current items depends on the length of

the entity's operating cycle. IAS 1 states that the operating cycle of an entity is

the time between the acquisition of assets for processing and their realisation in

cash or cash equivalents. However, when the entity's normal operating cycle is

not clearly identifiable, it is assumed to be 12 months.

416

IAS 1 does not

provide guidance on how to determine whether an entity's operating cycle is

‘clearly identifiable’. For some entities, the time involved in producing goods or

providing services may vary significantly between contracts with one customer

to another. In such cases, it may be difficult to determine what the normal

operating cycle is. Therefore, entities need to consider all facts and

circumstances and use judgement to determine whether it is appropriate to

consider that the operating cycle is clearly identifiable, or whether to use the

twelve-month default. This assessment is also relevant for other assets and

416

IAS 1.68, 70.

407 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

liabilities arising from contracts with customers within the scope of IFRS 15

(e.g., capitalised contract costs to obtain and fulfil a contract).

Consequently, an entity assesses, based on the contract terms, facts and

circumstances, whether a contract asset or contract liability is classified as

current or non-current. It considers:

• For a contract asset: when payment is due (e.g., based on payment

schedule agreed with client)

• For a contract liability: when the entity expects to satisfy its performance

obligation(s)

This assessment might lead to a separation of the contract asset or contract

liability into a current and a non-current portion.

Impairment of contract assets

After initial recognition, contract assets, like receivables, are subject to

impairment assessments in accordance with IFRS 9. The Basis for Conclusions

on IFRS 9.BC5.154 clarifies that contract assets are in scope of IFRS 9

impairment because the IASB considered “the exposure to credit risk on

contract assets is similar to that of trade receivables”.

417

The expected credit loss model in IFRS 9 focuses on the difference between the

contractual cash flows and expected cash flows.

418

However, the right to

receive non-cash consideration does not give rise to cash inflows. As such,

judgement may be needed when the consideration to which the entity is entitled

is non-cash. Since the entity does not yet hold the non-cash consideration, the

impairment requirements in IAS 36, for example, do not directly apply.

When applying the impairment requirements of IFRS 9 to the contract asset, an

entity considers the likelihood of not receiving the non-cash consideration

(i.e., non-performance risk). However, this would not consider any potential

impairment in the underlying asset to which the entity is entitled. As such, an

entity may need to consider the value of the underlying non-cash consideration

to which it is entitled to use as a proxy for the cash inflows when applying the

impairment requirements of IFRS 9.

As discussed in section 5.5.2 above, impairment losses on receivables are

presented in line with the requirements of IAS 1 and the disclosure

requirements in IFRS 7 apply.

419

In addition, as discussed at 10.2 below,

IFRS 15 requires that such amounts are disclosed separately from impairment

losses from other contracts.

420

These requirements also apply to impairment

losses on contract assets.

Initial measurement of receivables

IFRS 9 includes different initial measurement requirements for receivables

arising from IFRS 15 contracts depending on whether there is a significant

financing component.

•

If there is a significant financing component, the receivable is initially

measured at fair value

421

417

IFRS 9.BC5.154.

418

IFRS 9.B5.5.29

419

IFRS 7.35A(a)

420

IFRS 15.113(b).

421

IFRS 9.5.1.1.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 408

•

If there is no significant financing component (or the entity has used the

practical expedient in IFRS 15.63), the receivable is initially recognised at

the transaction price, measured in accordance with IFRS 15

422

If upon initial measurement there is a difference between the measurement of

the receivable under IFRS 9 and the corresponding amount of revenue, that

difference is presented immediately in profit or loss (e.g., as an impairment

loss).

If the initial measurement of a receivable is at fair value, there may be a number

of reasons why differences from the IFRS 15 transaction price may arise

(e.g., changes in the fair value of non-cash consideration not yet received). This

is the case when the difference is attributable to customer credit risk, rather

than an implied price concession. Implied price concessions are deducted from

the contract price to derive the transaction price, which is the amount

recognised as revenue. Distinguishing between implied price concessions

and expense due to customer credit risk requires judgement (see

section 5.2.1.A). Impairment losses resulting from contracts with customers are

presented separately from other impairment losses (see section 10.5.1 for

further discussion).

423

Frequently asked questions

Question 10-1: How would an entity determine the presentation of contract

assets and liabilities for contracts that contain multiple performance

obligations? [TRG meeting 31 October 2014 – Agenda paper no. 7]

TRG members generally agreed that contract assets and liabilities would be

determined at the contract level and not at the performance obligation level.

That is, an entity does not separately recognise an asset or liability for each

performance obligation within a contract, but aggregates them into a single

contract asset or liability.

This question arose in part because, under the standard, the amount and

timing of revenue recognition is determined based on progress toward

complete satisfaction of

each

performance obligation. Therefore, some

constituents questioned whether an entity could have a contract asset and

a contract liability for a single contract. An example is when the entity has

satisfied (or partially satisfied) one performance obligation in a contract

for which consideration is not yet due, but has received a prepayment for

another unsatisfied performance obligation in the contract. Members of

the TRG generally agreed that the discussion in the Basis for Conclusions

was clear that contract asset or contract liability positions are determined

for each contract on a net basis. This is because the rights and obligations

in a contract with a customer are interdependent – the right to receive

consideration from a customer depends on the entity’s performance and,

similarly, the entity performs only as long as the customer continues to

pay. The Board decided that those interdependencies are best reflected by

accounting and presenting contract assets or liabilities on a net basis.

424

After determining the net contract asset or contract liability position for

a contract, entities consider the requirements in IAS 1 on classification as

current or non-current in the statement of financial position, unless an entity

presents its statement of financial position on a liquidity basis (as discussed

above in this section).

422

IFRS 9.5.1.3.

423

IFRS 15.113(b)

424

IFRS 15.BC317.

409 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 10-2: How would an entity determine the presentation of two or

more contracts that are required to be combined under the standard? [TRG

meeting 31 October 2014 – Agenda paper no. 7]

TRG members generally agreed that the contract asset or liability would be

combined (i.e., presented net) for different contracts with the same customer

(or a related party of the customer) if an entity is otherwise required to

combine those contracts under the standard (see section 3.3 for discussion

of the criteria for combining contracts). When two or more contracts are

required to be combined under the standard, the rights and obligations in

the individual contracts are interdependent. Therefore, as discussed in

Question 10-1, this interdependency is best reflected by combining the

individual contracts as if they were a single contract. However, TRG

members acknowledged that this analysis may be operationally difficult for

some entities because their systems may capture data at the performance

obligation level in order to comply with the recognition and measurement

aspects of the standard.

Question 10-3: When would an entity offset contract assets and liabilities

against other balance sheet items (e.g., accounts receivable)? [TRG

meeting 31 October 2014 – Agenda paper no. 7]

TRG members generally agreed that, because the standard does not provide

requirements for offsetting, entities need to apply the requirements of other

standards to determine whether offsetting is appropriate (e.g., IAS 1,

IAS 32

Financial Instruments: Presentation

). For example, if an entity has

recorded a contract asset (or a receivable) and a contract liability (or refund

liability) from separate contracts with the same customer (that are not

required to be combined under the standard), the entity needs to look to

requirements outside IFRS 15 to determine whether offsetting is appropriate.

Question 10-4: Is a refund liability a contract liability (and, thus, subject to

the presentation and disclosure requirements of a contract liability)?

An entity needs to determine whether a refund liability is characterised

as a contract liability based on the specific facts and circumstances of the

arrangement. We believe that a refund liability typically does not meet the

definition of a contract liability. When an entity concludes that a refund

liability is not a contract liability, it presents the refund liability separately

from any contract liability (or asset) and the refund liability is not subject to

the disclosure requirements in IFRS 15.116-118 discussed in section 10.5.1

below.

When a customer pays consideration (or consideration is unconditionally due)

and the entity has an obligation to transfer

goods or services

to the customer,

the entity recognises a contract liability. When the entity expects to refund

some or all of the

consideration

received (or receivable) from the customer, it

recognises a refund liability. A refund liability generally does not represent an

obligation to transfer goods or services in the future. Similar to receivables

(which are considered a subset of contract assets), refund liabilities could

be considered a subset of contract liabilities. We believe refund liabilities are

also similar to receivables in that they are extracted from the net contract

position and presented separately (if material). This conclusion is consistent

with the standard’s specific requirement to present the corresponding asset

for expected returns separately (see section 5.4.1).

425

IFRS 15.B25.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 410

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

If an entity concludes, based on its specific facts and circumstances, that

a refund liability represents an obligation to transfer goods or services in

the future, the refund liability is a contract liability subject to the disclosure

requirements in IFRS 15.116-118. In addition, in that situation, the entity

presents a single net contract liability or asset (i.e., including the refund

liability) determined at the contract level, as discussed in Question 10-1

above.

Question 10-5: How would an entity account for a contract asset that exists

when a contract is modified if the modification is treated as the termination

of an existing contract and the creation of a new contract? [FASB TRG

meeting 18 April 2016 – Agenda paper no. 51]

FASB TRG members generally agreed that a contract asset that exists when

a contract is modified would be carried forward into the new contract if the

modification is treated as the termination of an existing contract and the

creation of a new contract (see section 3.4.1).

Some stakeholders questioned the appropriate accounting for contract assets

when this type of modification occurs because the termination of the old

contract could indicate that any remaining balances associated with the old

contract must be written off.

FASB TRG members generally agreed that it is appropriate to carry forward

the related contract asset in such modifications because the asset relates

to a right to consideration for goods or services that have already been

transferred and are distinct from those to be transferred in the future. As

such, the revenue recognised to date is not reversed and the contract asset

continues to be realised as amounts become due from the customer and are

presented as a receivable. The contract asset that remains on the entity’s

statement of financial position at the date of modification continues to be

subject to evaluation for impairment.

While the FASB TRG members did not discuss this point, we believe a similar

conclusion would be appropriate when accounting for an asset created under

IFRS 15, such as capitalised commissions, which exists immediately before a

contract modification that is treated as if it were a termination of the existing

contract and creation of a new contract. Refer to Question 9-11 in

section 9.3.1 for further discussion.

411 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

Frequently asked questions (cont’d)

Question 10-6: If an entity has not transferred a good or service, when does

it have an unconditional right to payment?

The standard states in IFRS 15.108 that a receivable is an entity’s right to

consideration that is unconditional. In general, we believe it may be difficult

to assert that the entity has an unconditional right to payment when it has

not transferred a good or service.

However, an entity may enter into non-cancellable contracts that provide

unconditional rights to payment from the customer for services that the

entity has not yet completed providing or services it will provide in the near

future (e.g., amounts invoiced in advance related to a service or maintenance

arrangement). When determining whether it is acceptable (or required) to

recognise accounts receivable and a corresponding contract liability, the

contractual terms and specific facts and circumstances supporting the

existence of an unconditional right to payment should be evaluated. Factors

to consider include:

(a) Does the entity have a contractual (or legal) right to invoice and receive

payment from the customer for services being provided currently (and

not yet completed) or being provided in the near future (e.g., amounts

invoiced in advance related to a service or maintenance arrangement)?

(b) Is the advance invoice consistent with the entity’s normal invoicing

terms?

frame of the invoice date?

(d) Is there more than one year between the advance invoice and

performance?

10.2 Presentation requirements for revenue from contracts

with customers (updated September 2019)

The Board decided to require entities to separately present or disclose the

amount of revenue related to contracts with customers, as follows:

426

• IFRS 15.113(a) requires an entity to disclose (or present in the statement of

comprehensive income) the amount of revenue recognised from contracts

with customers under IFRS 15 separately from other sources of revenue.

For example, a large equipment manufacturer that both sells and leases its

equipment should present (or disclose) amounts from these transactions

separately.

• IFRS 15.113(b) also requires an entity to disclose impairment losses from

contracts with customers separately from other impairment losses if they

are not presented in the statement of comprehensive income separately. As

noted in the Basis for Conclusion, the Board felt that separately disclosing

the impairment losses on contracts with customers provides the most

relevant information to users of financial statements.

427

Unless required, or permitted, by another standard, IAS 1 does not permit

offsetting of income and expenses within profit or loss or the statement of

comprehensive income.

428

426

IFRS 15.BC332.

427

IFRS 15.BC334.

428

IAS 1.32.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 412

After applying the requirements for determining the transaction price in

IFRS 15, revenue recognised by an entity may include offsets, for example, for

any trade discounts given and volume rebates paid by the entity to its customer.

Similarly, in the ordinary course of business, an entity may undertake other

transactions that do not generate revenue, but are incidental to the main

revenue-generating activities. When this presentation reflects the substance

of the transaction or other event, IAS 1 permits an entity to present “the results

of such transactions … by netting any income with related expenses arising on

the same transaction”.

429

An example given in IAS 1 is the presentation of

gains and losses on the disposal of non-current assets by deducting from the

amount of consideration on disposal the carrying amount of the asset and

related selling expenses.

430

Frequently asked questions

Question 10-7: Can income outside the scope of IFRS 15 be presented as

revenue in the income statement?

It depends. Entities need to consider the definition of revenue. IFRS 15

defines revenue as “Income arising in the course of an entity’s ordinary

activities”, but the standard excludes some revenue contracts from its scope

(e.g., leases). According to the 2010

Conceptual Framework for Financial

Reporting

(which applied when IFRS 15 was issued), revenue arises in the

course of the ordinary activities of an entity and is referred to by a variety of

different names including sales, fees, interest, dividends, royalties and

rent”.

431

Therefore, if an entity receives consideration in the course of its ordinary

activities that is outside the scope of IFRS 15, it may present that income as

revenue in the income statement. However, this income will need to be

presented either separately from revenue from contracts with customers on

the income statement or disclosed separately within the notes. This is

because, as mentioned above, entities are required to present in the

statement of comprehensive income, or disclose within the notes, the amount

of revenue recognised from contracts with customers separately from other

sources of revenue.

IFRS 15 does not explicitly require an entity to use the term ‘revenue from

contracts with customers’. Therefore, entities might use a different

terminology in their financial statements to describe revenue arising from

transactions that are within the scope of IFRS 15. However, entities should

ensure the terms used are not misleading and allow users to distinguish

revenue from contracts with customers from other sources of revenue.

429

IAS 1.34.

430

IAS 1.34(a).

431

2010 Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting, paragraph 4.29. See paragraph

BC4.96 of the 2018 Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting; when effective (for

annual periods beginning of or after 1 January 2020), the 2018 Conceptual Framework for

Financial Reporting will no longer contain a discussion about revenue and gains and losses.

However, the definition of revenue in IFRS 15 will remain unchanged. The IASB does not

expect the removal of that discussion to cause any changes in practice.

413 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

10.3 Other presentation considerations

The standard also changes the presentation requirements for products

expected to be returned and for those that contain a significant financing

component. Refer to sections 5.4.1 and 5.5.2 for presentation considerations

related to rights of return and significant financing components, respectively.

Also refer to section 9.3.3 for presentation considerations related to capitalised

contract costs to obtain and fulfil a contract.

Frequently asked questions

Question 10-8: How should entities classify shipping and handling costs in

the income statement?

Under IFRS 15, an entity needs to determine whether shipping and handling is

a separate promised service to the customer or if they are activities to fulfil

the promise to transfer the good (see section 4.1). Shipping and handling

activities that are performed before the customer obtains control of the

related good will be activities to fulfil its promise to transfer control of the

good. If shipping and handling activities are performed after a customer

obtains control of the related good, shipping and handling is a promised

service to the customer and an entity needs to determine whether it acts

as a principal or an agent in providing those services.

If an entity determines that the shipping and handling activities are related

to a promised good or service to the customer (either the promise to transfer

control of the good or the promise to provide shipping and handling services)

and the entity is the principal (rather than the agent), we believe the related

costs should be classified as cost of sales because the costs would be incurred

to fulfil a revenue obligation. However, if the entity determines that shipping

and handling is a separate promised service to the customer and it is acting

as an agent in providing those services, the related revenue to be recognised

for shipping and handling services would be net of the related costs.

We believe entities need to apply judgement to determine how to classify

shipping and handling costs when it is not related to a promised good or

service to the customer. This is because IFRS does not specifically address

how entities should classify these costs. While not a requirement of IFRS 15,

we would encourage entities to disclose the amount of these costs and the

line item or items on the income statement that include them if they are

significant.

Question 10-9: How should capitalised contract costs and their

amortisation be presented in the statement of financial position and

statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income, respectively?

See response to Question 9-23 in section 9.3.3.

Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard 414

10.4 Disclosure objective and general requirements

In response to criticism that the legacy revenue recognition disclosures are

inadequate, the Board sought to create a comprehensive and coherent set

of disclosures. As a result, IFRS 15 described the overall objective of the

disclosures, consistent with other recent standards, as follows:

Extract from IFRS 15

110. The objective of the disclosure requirements is for an entity to

disclose sufficient information to enable users of financial statements

to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue

and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. To achieve that

objective, an entity shall disclose qualitative and quantitative information

about all of the following:

(a) its contracts with customers (see paragraphs 113–122);

(b) the significant judgements, and changes in the judgements, made in

applying this Standard to those contracts (see paragraphs 123–126);

and

a customer in accordance with paragraph 91 or 95 (see

paragraphs 127–128).

Each of these disclosure requirements is discussed further below. To assist

entities in determining the required disclosures, Appendix A includes an extract

from EY’s

IFRS Disclosure Checklist

The standard requires that an entity consider the level of detail necessary to

satisfy the disclosure objective and how much emphasis to place on each of the

various requirements. The level of aggregation or disaggregation of disclosures

requires judgement. Entities are required to ensure that useful information is

not obscured (by either the inclusion of a large amount of insignificant detail or

the aggregation of items that have substantially different characteristics). An

entity does not need to disclose information in accordance with IFRS 15 if it

discloses that information in accordance with another standard.

As explained in the Basis for Conclusions, many preparers raised concerns that

they would need to provide voluminous disclosures at a cost that may outweigh

any potential benefits.

432

As summarised above, the Board clarified the

disclosure objective and indicated that the disclosures described in the standard

are not meant to be a checklist of minimum requirements. That is, entities

do not need to include disclosures that are not relevant or are not material to

them. In addition, the Board decided to require qualitative disclosures instead

of tabular reconciliations for certain disclosures.

432

IFRS 15.BC327, BC331.

415 Updated September 2019 A closer look at IFRS 15, the revenue recognition standard

How we see it

Entities should review their disclosures in each reporting period to determine

whether they have met the standard’s disclosure objective to enable users to

understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash

flows arising from contracts with customers. For example, some entities may

make large payments to customers that do not represent payment for a

distinct good or service and therefore reduce the transaction price and

affect the amount and timing of revenue recognised. Although there are no

specific requirements in the standard to disclose balances related to

consideration paid or payable to a customer, an entity may need to disclose

qualitative and/or quantitative information about those arrangements to

meet the objective of the disclosure requirements in the standard if the

amounts are material.

The disclosures are required for (and as at) each annual period for which

a statement of comprehensive income and a statement of financial position

are presented.

10.5 Specific disclosure requirements

The following illustration depicts the disclosure requirements, which are

discussed further below by category: