What is the Financial Accounting Standards Advisory Council (FASAC)?
The Financial Accounting Standards Advisory Council (FASAC) is a key advisory body to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB). Established to provide a spectrum of expert advice and input on major projects deemed relevant to FASB’s mission. The council consists of senior financial executives and experts from various sectors, including academia, business, and regulatory bodies, ensuring the promulgation of well-rounded and pragmatic accounting standards.
Role and Responsibilities of FASAC
- Advisory Function: Provides essential guidance on the formulation of financial accounting and reporting standards.
- Diverse Representation: Includes members from different industries and professions offering a variety of perspectives.
- Communication Bridge: Facilitates communication between FASB and various stakeholders, including financial statement users, preparers, and auditors.
Examples of FASAC’s Influence
- Revenue Recognition: FASAC played a notable role in advising on revenue recognition improvements, leading to more consistent and transparent revenue reporting across different industries.
- Leasing Standards: The council’s recommendations contributed significantly to the development of comprehensive leasing standards, aligning them closely with economic realities.
- Financial Instruments Reporting: Influences in determining the standards for financial instruments, enhancing fair value measurement, and disclosure paradigms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary mission of FASAC?
The primary mission of FASAC is to advise and provide diverse viewpoints to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) on crucial matters concerning the development and improvement of financial accounting and reporting standards.
Who are the members of FASAC?
FASAC members are senior executives from various fields, including industry leaders, regulators, academics, and financial professionals, ensuring a broad range of perspectives and expertise.
How often does FASAC meet?
FASAC holds several meetings throughout the year to discuss pressing topics and provide input on ongoing FASB projects.
How does FASAC impact accounting standards?
FASAC impacts accounting standards by providing valuable feedback and advice to FASB, ensuring the development of practical, comprehensive, and sustainable financial reporting standards.
Is FASAC involved in international accounting standards?
While FASAC primarily focuses on US GAAP, its advisory role often considers the global implications of accounting standards, creating synergies with international standards where applicable.
Related Terms
- FASB (Financial Accounting Standards Board): The independent organization responsible for establishing and improving financial accounting standards in the United States.
- US GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles): The accounting principles and procedures prescribed by the FASB to ensure uniformity in financial reporting.
- IASB (International Accounting Standards Board): The global body responsible for developing and promoting International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Intermediate Accounting by Donald E. Kieso, Jerry J. Weygandt, and Terry D. Warfield
- Financial Accounting: An Introduction to Concepts, Methods and Uses by Clyde P. Stickney and Roman L. Weil
- Accounting Standards: Concepts, Framework, and Issues by Stephen A. Zeff
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