Abstract:

In this paper, we will focus on the study of features accounting leases in economically devel-oped countries. We will examine the problem of definition in the accounting legislation such cate-gories as financial and operational leasing. The logic of this division is considered, explanations for criteria of financial lease are offered. We will study the prospects for change in the current account-ing legislation on lease in internationally recognized financial statement’s formats. The need for these changes is dictated by the project of convergence of accounting systems, currently being im-plemented under the auspices of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). In this case different ways of the decision of the specified problems are offered. We will show the accounting lease evolution from US Accounting Research bulletins in 1930s to new International Financial Reporting Standard 16 Leases, which was adopted in January 2016.