A financial asset or financial liability is recognised only when the entity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at the transaction price, unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where it is recognised at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of the interest for a similar debt instrument.
Debt instruments are subsequently measured at amortised cost.
Financial assets that are measured at cost or amortised cost are reviewed for objective evidence of impairment, an impairment loss is recognised in the profit or loss immediately.
Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the entity after deducting all its financial liabilities.
Where the contractual obligations of the financial instruments (including share capital) are equivalent to a similar debt instrument, those financial instruments are classed as financial liabilities. Financial liabilities are presented as such in the balance sheet. Finance costs and gains or losses relating to financial liabilities are included in the profit and loss account. Finance costs are calculated so as to produce a constant rate of return on the outstanding liability.
Where the contractual terms of share capital do not have any terms meeting the definition of a financial liability then this is classed as an equity instrument. Dividends and distributions relating to equity instruments are debited directly to equity.