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Can I revalue an intangible asset under FRS 102?

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Published: 10 Jul 2018 Reviewed: 24 Jul 2019 Update History

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Technical helpsheet to help members understand when it may be possible to revalue intangible assets and the criteria for doing so under FRS 102.

Introduction

This helpsheet has been issued by ICAEW’s Technical Advisory Service to help ICAEW members to understand when it may be possible to revalue intangible assets and the criteria for doing so under FRS 102.

Members may also wish to refer to the following related helpsheet:

Requirements

In theory it is possible to revalue an intangible under FRS 102 but the criteria for doing so are quite strict.

FRS 102 paragrahph 18.18 allows a revaluation model but only if the fair value can be determined by reference to an active market, a requirement which is very difficult for intangible assets to meet.

Active market is defined in the glossary to FRS 102 as a market in which all the following conditions exist:

  • the items traded in the market are homogeneous;
  • willing buyers and sellers can normally be found at any time; and
  • prices are available to the public.

The requirement for the items traded to be homogenous is perhaps the most significant hurdle to revaluing an intangible asset as intangibles, by their nature, are usually (but not always) unique. For example, patents and trademarks are unique to the entity that holds them and thus an active market, as defined by FRS 102, for them cannot exist.

In some jurisdictions active markets may exist for intangibles such as fishing licences or production quotas but this would need to be carefully considered on a case by case basis.

The need for willing buyers and sellers to be able to be found at any time and prices to be available to the public adds further complications.

It is not permitted to revalue an intangible asset which has not previously recognised as an asset and all intangible assets must be recognised initially at cost.

In summary, it is possible to revalue intangible assets under FRS 102 but the stringent criteria to do so means that in practise, revaluing intangible assets will be rare occurrence under FRS 102.

If in doubt seek advice

ICAEW members, affiliates, ICAEW students and staff in eligible firms with member firm access can discuss their specific situation with the Technical Advisory Service on +44 (0)1908 248 250 or via webchat.

Terms and conditions

© ICAEW 2024  All rights reserved.

ICAEW cannot accept responsibility for any person acting or refraining to act as a result of any material contained in this helpsheet. This helpsheet is designed to alert members to an important issue of general application. It is not intended to be a definitive statement covering all aspects but is a brief comment on a specific point.

ICAEW members have permission to use and reproduce this helpsheet on the following conditions:

  • This permission is strictly limited to ICAEW members only who are using the helpsheet for guidance only.
  • The helpsheet is to be reproduced for personal, non-commercial use only and is not for re-distribution.

For further details members are invited to telephone the Technical Advisory Service T +44 (0)1908 248250. The Technical Advisory Service comprises the technical enquiries, ethics advice, anti-money laundering and fraud helplines. For further details visit icaew.com/tas.

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  • Update History
    01 Jul 2018 (12: 00 AM BST)
    First published
    22 Mar 2024 (12: 00 AM GMT)
    Changelog created. Converted to new template. Links updated. Helpsheet has not had a full review
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