The International Accounting Standards Board sets accounting standards across the globe. Unlike country-specific standards such as the Unites States' GAAP (generally accepted accounting principles), international standards have no governing authority to enforce them, making them purely voluntary. Existing international standards carry a number of distinct benefits to participants, and they serve as an early template for future globally regulated and enforced standards.

International standards for accounting systems and the format of financial statements simplifies international investment decisions. Investors can compare the financial statements of companies following International Accounting Standards Board standards, or other international guidelines, regardless of the company's country of origin. Without standards, making comparisons becomes less reliable, as the information presented in financial statements is calculated using different methods. The adoption of international sta ...more

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Iasb

Global adoption of a single set of accounting standards