International convergence of accounting standards : an investigation of the use of IAS ''options'' not acceptable under US GAAP

This study investigates the use of accounting policies contained in national standards or IAS that are not acceptable under US GAAP. Four policy areas (measurement of tangible assets, available-for-sale marketable securities and intangible assets; and the treatment of research and development expenditure) were considered for 506 listed firms from the United Kingdom (UK), Australia, France, Germany and Japan at 1999/2000. The main use of policies equivalent to IAS "options" was among firms from the UK and Australia. The study outlined how IAS adoption in 2005 (in the UK, France, Germany and Australia) and further IASB/FASB convergence activities will impact on policies currently used by firms from the sample countries.