Inflection points in the development of IAS 38

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to identify the main inflexion points recorded into development of international accounting standards, case of IAS 38. Design/methodology/approach – The paper takes the form of a conceptual discussion and graphical analysis. The main research method consisted of identifying reference moments, known as inflection points, in the evolution of accounting rules issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and formulating a general framework of testing inflection points’ theory in the development of IAS 38. Findings – The paper highlights the reference moments recorded in the evolution of IAS 38 through the creation of inflexion points’ theory in the field of accounting regulations. Originality/value – According to the authors’ knowledge, this is an original study whose results have implications into accounting regulations field, as in this area, such a theory has not been applied.