Financial Disclosure

Accounting Change
An accounting change refers to the modification in accounting principles, estimates, or the reporting entity. Proper disclosure is required to justify and clarify the financial impact of these changes.
Balance Sheet Formats
Methods of presenting a balance sheet as set out in the Companies Act. Details the two formats available, vertical and horizontal, with specific disclosure requirements.
Business Segments
Separately identifiable parts of the business operations of a company or group whose activities, assets, risks, and returns can be clearly identified. Companies are obliged to disclose in their annual report and accounts certain financial information relating to these business segments.
Commitments for Capital Expenditure
Expenditure on fixed assets to which a company is committed for the future. Such commitments are usually disclosed in the directors' report and notes to the accounts.
Geographic Segment
Geographic segments refer to specific geographical areas, typically countries or groups of countries, where a company operates. According to International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) 8, companies must disclose certain financial data for each geographic segment in their financial statements.
Off-Balance-Sheet (OBS)
Denoting assets or liabilities that do not appear on the balance sheet of a company. Various off-balance-sheet arrangements have been entered into by companies wishing to avoid full disclosure of their assets and liabilities through complex legal agreements, joint ventures, specially created subsidiaries, and structured finance arrangements.
Offering Circular
An offering circular is a document used to provide details about a property or security offering when a prospectus is not required.
Offering Circular
An offering circular is an essential document used in securities offerings to provide detailed information about the investment opportunity, its terms, and the issuer. It serves a similar purpose to a prospectus but is typically used for different types of offerings.
Price-Sensitive Information
Information (usually unpublished) about a company that is likely to cause its share prices to move. It is often critical and confidential, impacting investor decisions and market valuation.
Registration Statement
In the USA, a registration statement is a lengthy document that must be submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It contains all relevant information about a new securities issue, enabling potential investors to make informed decisions.
Regulatory News Service
RNS or Regulatory News Service is a mechanism operated by the London Stock Exchange for the rapid dissemination of information relevant to listed companies, ensuring transparency and timely communication with investors and stakeholders.
SEC EDGAR
The Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval system (EDGAR) is a platform used by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to increase efficiency and accessibility in the collection, submission, and dissemination of financial reports from public companies and other entities.
Segmental Reporting
Segmental reporting entails the disclosure in annual accounts and reports of financial results of major operating and geographic segments within a diversified group of companies. This practice offers investors insight into the profitability, risk, and growth prospects for individual segments of a business.

Accounting Terms Lexicon

Discover comprehensive accounting definitions and practical insights. Empowering students and professionals with clear and concise explanations for a better understanding of financial terms.