Financial Instruments Disclosure: The Role of Accounting Standards

A significant number of studies have pointed to inadequate disclosure of the hedging process by companies of both details of instruments used and the clarity of information. Following the adoption of IFRSs, UK companies started reporting under IAS 32 and 39 from the accounting year beginning from 1st January 2005. This required more relevant information to be disclosed when compared with the requirements of FRS 13 under which UK companies reported prior to 2005. The adoption was consistent with reporting practices of other countries within the EU. This study investigates the extent to which non-financial sector firms in the UK have complied with the requirements of IAS 32 and 39 and what the value of this disclosure has been to investors. The thesis reports on a sample of 182 firms using content analysis to evaluate reporting level in comparison with the requirements of the standards. The thesis also uses cross sectional analysis of the market model to assess the extent of disclosure on excess returns. The findings show that companies reported more on derivative use under the international standards than under UK GAAP, suggesting that harmonization of reporting practices are on course in the UK. Secondly, companies that reported financial instruments under these standards have a lower risk-adjusted discount rate. This translates to lower future returns and higher current prices, meaning current increased market values. Further division of companies into those who disclosed at low, medium and high levels, shows that companies that disclosed at medium and high levels have a lower risk-adjusted discount rates. This suggests reduced risk and higher current market values for these firms. These findings supports our earlier findings just as they support the theoretical insight that increased disclosure means increased transparency that should positively affect firm value and vice versa.