Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from April, 2011

Accounting for Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts

FOREIGN EXCHANGE FORWARD CONTRACTS An enterprise having exposure to multiple currencies by virtue receivable and payables (e.g. import and export) is likely to be worried about the exchange rate fluctuations that may result in gains and losses in the future. In order to hedge its position and to avoid the losses due to foreign exchange rate changes, the enterprise may enter into a forward exchange contract to manage the amount of the reporting currency required or available at the settlement date of transaction. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and International Financial reporting Standards (IFRS) provides that the difference between the forward rate and the exchange rate at the date of the transaction should be recognised as income or expense over the life of the contract. Further the profit or loss arising on cancellation or renewal of a forward exchange contract should be recognised as income or as expense for the period. Example: Suppose MSD Ltd needs USD 500,0