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Financial reporting for cryptocurrency

Author

Listed:
  • Mei Luo

    (Tsinghua University)

  • Shuangchen Yu

    (Tsinghua University)

Abstract

This study compares and contrasts US and international accounting and financial reporting practices for cryptocurrency. We analyze the financial statements of 40 global companies that have exposure to cryptocurrencies, including cryptocurrency purchases, mining, payments, trading, and investments in ICOs and early-stage blockchain ventures. We document inconsistency between Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as well as distortions that can mislead users in assessing asset value, liquidity, profitability, and cash-generating abilities across firms. In particular, firms receiving cryptocurrencies in revenue-generating activities account for cryptocurrencies as intangibles using different measurement bases and classify the associated cash inflows differently. Some firms place cryptocurrencies in the usual long-term location of intangibles, while others consider intangibles as liquid, short-term assets. Limited guidance about crypto-assets from both IFRS and GAAP lets companies choose which existing standard to apply and how to apply it. Understanding the financial and valuation implications of these new virtual assets is vital for future accounting research and professional practice.

Suggested Citation

  • Mei Luo & Shuangchen Yu, 2024. "Financial reporting for cryptocurrency," Review of Accounting Studies, Springer, vol. 29(2), pages 1707-1740, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:reaccs:v:29:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s11142-022-09741-w
    DOI: 10.1007/s11142-022-09741-w
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Cryptocurrency; Blockchain; Financial reporting; Accounting;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M48 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Accounting - - - Government Policy and Regulation
    • M41 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Accounting - - - Accounting
    • G10 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - General (includes Measurement and Data)
    • G18 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Government Policy and Regulation

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