Background

In March 2018, the IASB issued the 2018 Conceptual Framework and most references to the Framework included in IFRSs were updated to the 2018 Framework at that time. However, paragraph 11 of IFRS 3, Business Combinations, which continued to refer to the 1989 Framework, was not updated as this could have caused conflicts for entities applying IFRS 3.

Potential conflicts occur as the definition of assets and liabilities in the 2018 Framework differ from those in the 1989 Framework potentially leading to day 2 gains or losses post-acquisition for some balances recognized.

In a May 2019 exposure draft, the IASB identified three possible amendments to IFRS 3 that would update IFRS 3 without significantly changing its requirements. These amendments have now been finalized.

Changes

The changes in Reference to the Conceptual Framework (Amendments to IFRS 3):

• update IFRS 3 so that it refers to the 2018 Conceptual Framework instead of the 1989 Framework;
• add to IFRS 3 a requirement that, for transactions and other events within the scope of IAS 37 or IFRIC 21, an acquirer applies IAS 37 or IFRIC 21 (instead of the Conceptual Framework) to identify the liabilities it has assumed in a business combination; and
• add to IFRS 3 an explicit statement that an acquirer does not recognize contingent assets acquired in a business combination.

Effective date

The amendments published today are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2022. Early application is permitted if an entity also applies all other updated references (published together with the updated Conceptual Framework) at the same time or earlier.

Additional information

• IASB press release