Disclosure of intangible assets: Are we getting better? Evidence from Poland

Abstract:

The purpose of this paper is to examine the compliance level regarding mandatory information about intangible assets reported in financial statements and its change over time. The research method adapted is content analysis of financial statements prepared by all listed IT companies in Poland for accounting years 2012 and 2017. The research tool - disclosure index - comprises all mandatory disclosures about intangible assets (34 items) according to IAS 38. The findings of this paper show that there is only little increase in disclosure level in 2017 comparing to 2012. Entities disclose rather general information without many details needed to deep understanding of intangible value of business. These results suggest a need for improvement of financial reporting regarding intangible assets.