Full disclosure: Business combinations

Our Full disclosure podcast series brings you back to the basics on all things related to financial statement presentation and disclosure, from the top of the financial statements through the footnotes. 

This week we focus on the presentation and disclosure requirements for business combinations. Jay Seliber, PwC National Office partner, is back in the guest seat to share some helpful insights with our host, Heather Horn. 

Topics include:

• 1:15 - Scope of business combinations. Jay explains the applicability of the business combinations guidance to different types of transactions.
• 3:24 - Balance sheet. Jay highlights the presentation rules on the balance sheet and addresses a common question about the classification of contingent consideration.
• 6:30 - Income statement. Jay takes us through the presentation requirements for business combinations on the income statement, including some of the areas that require more judgment - think previously held equity interests, mark-to-market adjustments on contingent consideration, and tax indemnifications. 
• 10:23 - Statement of cash flows. Jay breaks down the cash flow presentation rules for common aspects of business combinations transactions, including debt financing and contingent consideration.
• 18:21 - Disclosure requirements. Jay outlines both GAAP and SEC disclosure requirements on business combinations.
• 41:20 - Key takeaways. Jay closes with final reminders. Heather tries to stump Jay with some accounting history questions.

Want to learn more? Read:

• Chapter 17: Business combinations of our Financial statement presentation guide.
• In depth, SEC amends disclosure rules for acquired and disposed businesses
• In depth, Domestic SPAC mergers - financial reporting and accounting considerations

Jay Seliber is a partner in PwC’s National Office. He leverages over 30 years of experience to help clients with their most complex accounting matters, particularly in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, revenue recognition, stock compensation, earnings per share, employee benefits, restructurings, impairments, and financing transactions. Jay is presently PwC's representative to the FASB's Emerging Issues Task Force.  

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. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

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