Explanation
The convention of conservatism mean that the convention of caution, or the policy of playing safe. This principle requires that in the situation of uncertainty and doubt, the business transactions should be recorded in such a manner that the profits and assets are not overstated and losses and liabilities are not understated. The following are some examples:
1. Closing stock is valued at cost price or Net realisable value, whichever is lower.
2. Joint life insurance policy is shown only at surrender value as against the amount paid.
3. Provision for doubtful debt is created in anticipation of bad debts etc.
4. Provision for pending law suit against the firm, which may either be decided in its favour.
Conversely, this means the entity will not be forced to halt operations and liquidate its assets in the near term at what may be very low fire-sale prices.
The objectivity principle is the concept that the financial statements of an organization be based on solid evidence. The intent behind this principle is to keep the management and the accounting department of an entity from producing financial statements that are slanted by their opinions and biases.
It requires that accounting transaction should be recorded in an objective and independent manner, free from the bias of accountants and others.
The concept of conservatism (also called ‘prudence’) provides guidance for recording transactions in the book of accounts and is based on the policy of playing safe.
The concept states that a conscious approach should be adopted in ascertaining income so that profits of the enterprise are not overstated.
The concept of conservatism requires that profits should not to be recorded until realised but all losses, even those which may have a remote possibility, are to be provided in the books of accounts.
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