Crypto toolkit: Accounting for holding digital assets

In our Toolkit podcast series, we are taking a deep dive into one accounting topic each month that goes beyond the basics and into areas that require judgment. This month, we are covering digital assets–from the total landscape to the accounting and reporting impacts.

In this episode, Heather Horn was joined by Beth Paul, Kevin Jackson, and Reto Micheluzzi, to discuss the accounting models for holding crypto.

In this episode, you will find:

• 1:44 - A refresher on the types of cryptocurrencies and related accounting models
• 6:52 - A deep dive into the intangible assets guidance as the primary model to account for cryptocurrencies
• 10:09 - The challenges when determining the fair value of digital assets
• 19:36 - Impairment considerations when assessing the value of digital assets
• 26:36 - How to calculate the gain or loss on disposal when digital assets are sold
• 27:40 - The current state of standard-setting for digital assets
• 33:54 - The SEC’s focus areas for digital assets

Want to learn more? Listen to our previous podcast in the Crypto toolkit series, Getting smarter on digital assets, and read our chapters on Holding crypto assets, crypto fair value measurement. Also check out our recent publication on new SEC rules for crypto-assets.

Beth Paul is a Deputy Chief Accountant in PwC’s National Office responsible for a team of consultants that specialize in business combinations and related areas, such as consolidations, disposals, impairments, and segment reporting. Prior to this role, Beth was the Strategic Thought Leader in PwC’s National office, working closely with firm leadership to determine PwC’s position on emerging trends in auditing, accounting, and financial reporting matters.

Kevin Jackson is a director in PwC’s Capital Markets Accounting Advisory Services practice with over ten years of experience assisting clients with complex accounting and financial reporting issues. Kevin is also a member of the AICPA's Digital Assets Working Group, which provides interpretive guidance on how to account for digital assets.

Reto Micheluzzi is a partner in PwC’s National Office with over 25 years of experience solving companies’ most complex accounting and financial reporting issues, creating a path through the dense regulatory framework and bodies of rules. He has a deep understanding of the demands associated with today’s accounting complexities and potential SEC reporting issues, primarily related to M&A, consolidation, reorganizations, and income taxes.

Heather Horn is PwC’s National Office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. 

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.