• The existing incurred loss model. Currently, IAS 39 recognises impairment of financial assets using an 'incurred loss model'. An incurred loss model assumes that all loans will be repaid until evidence to the contrary (known as a loss or trigger event) is identified. Only at that point is the impaired loan (or portfolio of loans) written down to a lower value.
• IASB's proposed expected loss model. The model proposed in the new ED is an 'expected loss model'. Under that model, expected losses are recognised throughout the life of a loan or other financial asset measured at amortised cost, not just after a loss event has been identified. The expected loss model avoids what many see as a mismatch under the incurred loss model – front-loading of interest revenue (which includes an amount to cover the lender's expected loan loss) while the impairment loss is recognised only after a loss event occurs. Proponents of the expected loss model believe it better reflects the lending decision. Under the IASB's proposed expected loss model, a provision against credit losses would be built up over the life of the financial asset based on the expected cash flows of the instrument (including expected credit losses), not market values. Extensive disclosure requirements would provide investors with an understanding of the loss estimates that an entity judges necessary.

Because of significant practical challenges in moving to an expected loss model, the IASB will establish an Expert Advisory Panel comprising experts in credit risk management to advise the Board. Deadline for comments on the ED is 30 June 2010. Click for IASB Press Release (PDF 99k).

Update: Click for list of Advisory Panel Members (PDF 18k).