The impact of IFRS 8 on disclosure practices of Jordanian listed companies

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to compare the segmental information disclosures of Jordanian companies under IFRS 8 for 2009 with disclosures under IAS 14R for 2008. Design/methodology/approach – A sample of 109 Jordanian companies is used in this research. A disclosure index checklist was constructed to assess the segmental information provided by the sample companies. In particular, the checklist collected information about: the number of segments reported; the number and type of segmental items published; the geographic segment definitions (areas) used; and the identity of the chief operating decision maker (CODM). Findings – The results suggest that segmental disclosures under IFRS 8 have increased compared to the information published under IAS 14R. There is an increase in the number of companies disclosing segmental information while the number of business and geographic segments for which information is provided rose under IFRS 8. Items required under the previous standard (IAS 14R) are still being provided in 2009, and the new segmental information required (if reviewed by the CODM) under IFRS 8 is also disclosed. As a result, the total number of segmental items disclosed increased. Moreover, a majority of companies identified the CODM as the chief executive officer. Research limitations/implications – This research highlights that the introduction of IFRS 8 has been associated with more Jordanian companies now disclosing segmental information. However, factors other than IFRS 8 may have contributed to the increased disclosure; these are not considered in the current paper. Originality/value – This research shows that IFRS 8 compliance amongst Jordanian first market companies has resulted in an increase in the number of segments and items per segment disclosed.