Handbook: Investments

Perspectives on investment accounting and the fair value option

Investment accounting is how we refer to the accounting for debt and equity securities that don’t fall under other accounting models, such as the equity method or consolidation. These remaining investments typically give the investor limited (if any) influence over the investee. 

The first comprehensive accounting and reporting guidance on investments in debt and equity securities was issued in 1993. Nearly 30 years later, some of those requirements and concepts are still present – including the core principles for classification and accounting for debt securities. But there have been several changes (especially for equity securities) as well as challenges in applying the guidance to new facts and circumstances and new types of investments.

This publication also addresses the application of the fair value option. The fair value option can be elected for a wide range of financial assets and liabilities, including investments in debt and equity securities. It allows these instruments to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

In bringing this guidance together, we aim to help companies effectively and efficiently identify the guidance that applies to different types of investments and understand the related accounting requirements. We walk you through available accounting options so that you can make the choice that is right for you.