Note 2 – Significant accounting policies
| 2.1. | Basis of preparation |
The Consolidated Financial Statements of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING were prepared taking into account the requirements and guidelines set out by the National Monetary Council (CMN), which established that as from December 31, 2010 annual Consolidated Financial Statements are to be prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).
In the preparation of these Consolidated Financial Statements, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING adopted the criteria for recognition, measurement and disclosure established in the IFRS and in the interpretations of the International Financial Reporting Interpretation Committee (IFRIC).
The Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows shows the changes in cash and cash equivalents during the period, arising from operating, investing, and financing activities, and include highly-liquid investments (Note 2.4c).
The Cash flows of operating activities are calculated by the indirect method. Consolidated net income is adjusted for non-monetary items, such as measurement gains and losses, changes in provisions and in receivables and liabilities balances. All income and expense arising from non-monetary transactions, attributable to investing and financing activities, are eliminated. Interest received or paid are classified as operating cash flows.
Management believes that the information included in these Consolidated Financial Statements is relevant and a faithful representation of the information used in the management of the ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING.
| 2.2. | New accounting standards and new accounting standards changes and interpretations |
| a) | Accounting standards applicable for period ended December 31, 2017 |
There were no new accounting pronouncements for the period ended December 31, 2017.
| b) | Accounting standards recently issued and applicable in future periods |
The following pronouncements will become applicable for periods after the date of these consolidated financial statements and were not early adopted:
| • | IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments – The pronouncement replaces IAS 39 - Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. IFRS 9 is applicable to all financial assets and liabilities and will be retrospectively adopted on the date the standard becomes effective, on January 1st, 2018. The new rule is structured to contemplate the pillars: |
| (I) | Classification and measurement of financial assets: the classification of financial assets should depend on two criteria: the entity´s business model for managing its financial assets and the characteristics of the contractual cash flow of financial assets; |
| • | Business model: it is determined at a level that reflects how the groups of financial assets are jointly managed to achieve a specific commercial purpose and generate cash flows, not depending of the management’s intention regarding an individual instrument. Accordingly, it represents whether cash flows will result from contractual cash flows, sale of financial assets or both; and |
| • | Characteristics of contractual cash flow of financial assets: identification of asset cash flows what constitute only payment of principal and interest, by applying the SPPI (Solely Payment Principal and Interest) test. |
(ll) Impairment: The new standard brings the concept of expected loss (including the use of prospective information) and classification in three phases. An asset will migrate from the phase of expected credit loss as the credit risk deteriorates. If, in a subsequent period, the quality of a financial asset improves or the significant increase in the previously identified credit risk is reverse, the financial asset may return to phase 1, unless it is a financial asset originated with credit recovery issues.
| • | Phase 1 – Credit losses expected for 12 months: represented possible default events within 12 months. Applicable to financial assets without significant increase in credit risk and no credit recovery issues in origination; |
| • | Phase 2 – Permanent credit losses expected over the life of the financial instrument: resulting from all possible default events. Applicable to financial assets with a significant increase in credit risk, but which were not originated with recovery issues. |
| • | Phase 3 – Permanent credit losses expected for assets with credit recovery problems: resulting from all possible default events. Applicable to financial assets considered with credit recovery issues due to the occurrence of one or more events that negatively affect the estimated future cash flows for this asset. Financial assets what are not originated with recovery issues, but that subsequently had recovery issues, differ from phase 2 due to the recognition of interest income by applying the effective interest rate at amortized cost (net of provision) rather than the gross carrying amount. |
(lll) Hedge accounting: The hedge accounting requirements are closed aligned with risk management and should be applied on a prospective basis. ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING will continue applying all requirements for hedge accounting set forth in IAS 39, as permitted by IFRS 9.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING conducted simulations during the second half of 2017 for better understanding of the potential effect of the new accounting standard. The transition to IFRS 9 will cause, according to the best estimates, a reduction not higher than 3.00% in stockholder’s equity, net of tax effects.
The transition impacts are based on the best estimates on the reporting date and adjustments identified will be recognized in retained earnings on the transition date, directly affecting the stockholders’ equity.
The adoption of the new standard shall not bring regulatory or prudential impacts – including capital – on ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING, since these limits are calculated based on Prudential Consolidated, which is prepared according to the standards and generally accepted accounting principles in Brazil applicable to institutions authorized to operate by BACEN.
| • | IFRS 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers: The pronouncement replaces IAS 18 – Revenue and IAS 11– Construction Contracts, as well as respective interpretations (IFRICs 13, 15 and 18). It requires that the recognition of revenue reflect the transfer of goods or services to the client. This standard is effective for the years beginning January 1st, 2018 and there are no impacts for the Consolidated Financial Statements of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING. |
| • | IFRS 16 – Leases – The pronouncement replaces IAS 17 - Leases, and related interpretations (IFRIC 4, SIC 15 and SIC 27). It eliminates the accounting for operating lease agreements for the lessee, presenting only one lease model, that consists of: (a) recognizing leases which terms exceeds 12 months and with substantial amounts; (b) initially recognizing lease in assets and liabilities at present value; and (c) recognizing depreciation and interest from lease separately in the result. For the lessor, accounting will continue to be segregated between operating and financial lease. This standard is effective for annual periods beginning on January 1st, 2019. Possible impacts arising from the adoption of this standard are being assessed and will be completed by the date this standard is effective. |
| • | IFRS 17 – Insurance Contracts: The pronouncement replaces IFRS 4 – Insurance Contracts and presents three approaches for assessment of insurance contracts: |
| • | General Model: applicable to all contracts, particularly the long-term contracts; |
| • | Premium Allocation Approach (PAA): applicable to contracts which term is up to 12 months and with modestly complex cash flows. It is simpler than the standard model; however, it can be used only when it produces results similar to those that would be obtained it the standard model was used; |
| • | Variable Fee Approach: approach specific for contracts with participation in the result of investments. |
Insurance contracts should be recognized based on the analysis of four components:
| • | Expected Future Cash Flows: estimate of all components of cash flow of the contract, considering inflows and outflows; |
| • | Risk Adjustment: estimate of offset required by deviations that may occur between cash flows; |
| • | Contractual Margin: difference between any amounts received before the beginning of the contract coverage and present value of cash flows estimated in the beginning of the contract; |
| • | Discount: projected cash flows should be discounted at present value, to reflect the time value of money, at rates that reflect the characteristics of respective flows. |
This standard is effective for annual periods beginning on January 1st, 2021. Possible impacts arising from the adoption of this standard are being assessed and will be completed by the date this standard is effective.
| • | Amendment to IFRS 4 – Insurance Contracts – Joint application of IFRS 9: The amendment enables entities that are issuers of insurance contracts to mitigate possible impacts of the adoption of IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments before the effectiveness of IFRS 17 – Insurance Contracts, through two options: |
| • | Temporary exemption: adoption of IFRS 9 together with IFRS 17, i.e., as from January 2021. This option is applicable only to entities with significant insurance activities (over 80% of total liabilities) and that have not applied IFRS 9 in advance; |
| • | Overlay approach: adoption of IFRS 9, however, for assets reclassified to the category Fair Value through Profit or Loss, transferring the effects of the adoption of IFRS 9 from Income for the Period to Other Comprehensive Income until the effectiveness of IFRS 17. |
Liabilities related to insurance contracts are not representative as compared to total liabilities of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING.
In 2018, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING will adopt IFRS 9 for all financial assets of insurance entities, and, therefore, will not use the aforementioned options.
| • | Amendment to IFRS 10 – Consolidated Financial Statements and IAS 28 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – The amendments refer to an inconsistency between IFRS 10 and IAS 28 requirements, when addressing the sale or contribution of assets between an investor and its associate or joint venture. The effective date has not been defined by IASB yet. No material impacts arising from this change on the consolidated financial statements of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING were identified. |
2.3. Critical accounting estimates and judgments
The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with IFRS requires Management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, and contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the Consolidated Financial Statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenue, expenses, gains, and losses over the reporting and subsequent periods, because actual results may differ from those determined in accordance with such estimates and assumptions.
| 2.3.1 | Critical accounting estimates |
All estimates and assumptions made by Management are in accordance with IFRS and represent the current best estimates made in compliance with the applicable standards. Estimates are evaluated continuously, considering past experience and other factors.
The Consolidated Financial Statements reflect a variety of estimates and assumptions. The critical accounting estimates and assumptions that have the most significant impact on the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities are described below:
| a) | Allowance for loan and lease losses |
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING periodically reviews its portfolio of loans and receivables to evaluate the existence of impairment.
In order to determine the amount of the allowance for loan and lease losses in the Consolidated Statements of Income with respect to receivables or group of receivables, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING exercises its judgment to determine whether objective evidence indicates that an event of loss has occurred. This evidence may include observable data that indicates that an adverse change has occurred in the cash flows received in relation to those expected from the counterparty or the existence of a change in local or international economic conditions that correlates with impairment. The methodology and assumptions used for estimating future cash flows are regularly reviewed by Management, considering the adequacy of models and sufficiency of provision volumes in view of the experience of incurred loss.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING uses statistical models to calculate the Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses in the homogeneous loan portfolio. ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING periodically carries out procedures to improve these estimates by aligning the required provisions to the levels of losses observed by the historical behavior (as described in Note 2.4d X). This alignment aims at ensuring that the volume of allowances reflects the current economic conditions, the composition of the loan portfolios, the quality of guarantees obtained and the profile of our clients.
Methodology and assumptions used by Management are detailed in Note 2.4d X. Allowance for loan losses is detailed in Note 12b.
| b) | Deferred income tax and social contribution |
As explained in Note 2.4k, deferred tax assets are recognized only in relation to temporary differences and tax assets and loss for offset to the extent it is probable that ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING will generate future taxable profit for its use. The expected realization of deferred tax assets is based on the projection of future taxable profits and technical studies, as disclosed in Note 27.
| c) | Fair value of financial instruments, including derivatives |
The fair value of Financial Instruments is measured recurrently, in conformity with the requirements of IAS 39 – Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. The fair value of financial instruments, including derivatives that are not traded in active markets, is determined by using valuation techniques. This calculation is based on assumptions that take into consideration Management’s judgment based on market information and conditions in place at the balance sheet date.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING ranks fair value measurements using a fair value hierarchy that reflects the significance of inputs used in the measurement process.
The fair value of Financial Instruments, including Derivatives, as well as the fair value hierarchy, are presented in Note 31.
The team in charge of the pricing of assets, in accordance with the governance defined by the committee and regulatory circulars, carries out critical analyses of the information extracted from the market and from time to time reassesses the long term of indexes. At the end of the monthly closings, the departments meet for a new round of analyses for the maintenance of the classification in connection with the fair value hierarchy. ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING believes that all methodologies adopted are appropriate and consistent with market participants, however, the adoption of other methodologies or use of different assumptions to estimate fair values may result in different fair value estimates.
The methodologies used to estimate the fair value of certain financial instruments are described in Note 31.
| d) | Defined benefit pension plan |
The current amount of pension plan obligations is obtained from actuarial calculations that use a set of assumptions. Among the assumptions used for estimating the net cost (income) of these plans is the discount rate. Any changes in these assumptions will affect the carrying amount of pension plan liabilities.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING determines the appropriate discount rate at the end of each year, which is used for determining the present value of estimated future cash outflows necessary for settling the pension plan liabilities. In order to determine the appropriate discount rate, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING considers the interest rates of the Brazilian federal government bonds that are denominated in Brazilian Reais, the currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have maturity terms approximating the terms of the related liabilities.
The main assumptions on Pension plan obligations are based on, in part, current market conditions. Additional information is disclosed in Note 29.
| e) | Provisions, contingencies and other commitments |
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING periodically reviews its contingencies. These contingencies are evaluated based on Management´s best estimates, taking into account the opinion of legal counsel when there is a likelihood that financial resources will be required to settle the obligations and the amounts may be reasonably estimated.
Contingencies classified as probable losses are recognized in the Balance Sheet under Provisions.
Contingent amounts are measured using appropriate models and criteria, despite the uncertainty surrounding the ultimate timing and amounts. Provisions, contingencies and other commitments are detailed in Note 32.
| f) | Technical provisions for insurance and pension plan |
Technical provisions are liabilities arising from obligations of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING to its policyholders and participants. These obligations may be short term liabilities (property and casualty insurance) or medium and long term liabilities (life insurance and pension plans).
The determination of the actuarial liability is subject to several uncertainties inherent in the coverage of insurance and pension contracts, such as assumptions of persistence, mortality, disability, life expectancy, morbidity, expenses, frequency and severity of claims, conversion of benefits into annuities, redemptions and return on assets.
The estimates for these assumptions are based on the historical experience of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING, benchmarks and experience of the actuary, in order to comply with best market practices and the continuous review of the actuarial liability. The adjustments resulting from these continuous improvements, when necessary, are recognized in the statement of income for the corresponding period.
Additional information is described in Note 30.
2.3.2 Critical judgments in accounting policies
| a) | Goodwill |
The impairment test for goodwill involves estimates and significant judgments, including the identification of cash generation units and the allocation of goodwill to such units based on the expectations of which ones will benefit from the acquisition. Determining the expected cash flows and a risk-adjusted interest rate for each unit requires that management exercises judgment and estimates. Semi-annually goodwill is submitted to the impairment test and, at December 31, 2017 and 2016, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING did not identify goodwill impairment losses.
2.4. Summary of main accounting practices
| a) | Consolidation |
| I. | Subsidiaries |
In accordance with IFRS 10—Consolidated Financial Statements, subsidiaries are all entities in which ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING holds control. ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING controls an entity when it is exposed to, or is entitled to, its variable returns derived from its involvement with such entity, and has the capacity to impact such returns.
Subsidiaries are fully consolidated as from the date in which ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING obtains control and are no longer consolidated as from the date such control is lost.
The following table shows the main consolidated companies, which together represent over 95% of total consolidated assets, as well as the interests of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING in their voting capital at 12/31/2017 and 12/31/2016.
| Functional currency |
Incorporation country |
Activity | Interest in voting capital at |
Interest in total capital at |
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| 12/31/2017 | 12/31/2016 | 12/31/2017 | 12/31/2016 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Domestic |
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|
Banco Itaú BBA S.A. |
Brazil | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Banco Itaú Consignado S.A. |
Brazil | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Banco Itaucard S.A. |
Brazil | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Banco Itauleasing S.A. |
Brazil | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Cia. Itaú de Capitalização |
Brazil | Capitalization | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Dibens Leasing S.A.—Arrendamento Mercantil |
Brazil | Leasing | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Financeira Itaú CBD S.A. Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento |
Brazil | Consumer finance credit | 50.00 | % | 50.00 | % | 50.00 | % | 50.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Hipercard Banco Múltiplo S.A. |
Brazil | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Itauseg Seguradora S.A.(*) |
Brazil | Insurance | 99.99 | % | 99.99 | % | 99.99 | % | 99.99 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Itaú Corretora de Valores S.A. |
Brazil | Broker | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Itaú Seguros S.A. |
Brazil | Insurance | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Itaú Unibanco S.A. |
Brazil | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Itaú Vida e Previdência S.A. |
Brazil | Pension plan | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Luizacred S.A. Sociedade de Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento |
Brazil | Consumer finance credit | 50.00 | % | 50.00 | % | 50.00 | % | 50.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Redecard S.A. |
Brazil | Acquirer | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | ||||||||||||||||
|
Foreing |
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|
Itaú Corpbanca Colombia S.A. |
(Note 3) | Colombian peso | Colombia | Financial institution | 23.90 | % | 23.67 | % | 23.90 | % | 23.67 | % | ||||||||||||||
|
Banco Itaú (Suisse) SA |
Swiss franc | Switzerland | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
|
Banco Itaú Argentina S.A. |
Argentinian peso | Argentina | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
|
Banco Itaú Paraguay S.A. |
Guarani | Paraguay | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
|
Banco Itaú Uruguay S.A. |
Uruguayan peso | Uruguay | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
|
Itau Bank, Ltd. |
Real | Cayman Islands |
Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
|
Itaú BBA Colombia S.A. Corporacion Financiera |
Colombian peso | Colombia | Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
|
Itau BBA International plc |
Dollar | United Kingdom |
Financial institution | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
|
Itau BBA USA Securities Inc. |
Real | United States |
Broker | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | 100.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
|
Itaú CorpBanca |
(Note 3) | Chilean peso | Chile | Financial institution | 36.06 | % | 35.71 | % | 36.06 | % | 35.71 | % | ||||||||||||||
| (*) | New company name of Itaú BMG Seguradora S.A. |
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING is committed to maintaining the minimum capital required by all these joint ventures, noteworthy is that for all Financeira Itaú CBD S.A Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento (FIC) the minimum capital percentage is 25% higher than that required by the Central Bank of Brazil (Note 33).
| II. | Business combinations |
Accounting for business combinations under IFRS 3 is only applicable when a business is acquired. Under IFRS 3 – Business Combinations, a business is defined as an integrated set of activities and assets that is conducted and managed so to provide a return to investors, cost reduction or other economic benefits, and it should be recorded when a business is acquired. In general, a business consists of an integrated set of activities and assets that may be conducted and managed so as to provide a direct return, as dividends, lower costs or other economic benefits, to investors or other stockholders, members or participants. There is goodwill in a set of activities and transferred assets, it is presumed to be a business. For acquisitions that meet the definition of business, accounting under the purchase method is required.
The acquisition cost is measured at the fair value of the assets transferred, equity instruments issued and liabilities incurred or assumed at the exchange date, plus costs directly attributable to the acquisition. Acquired assets and assumed liabilities and contingent liabilities identifiable in a business combination are initially measured at fair value at the date of acquisition, regardless of the existence of non-controlling interests. The excess of the acquisition cost, plus non-controlling interests, if any, over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired, is accounted for as goodwill.
The treatment of goodwill is described in Note 2.4h. If the cost of acquisition, plus non-controlling interests, if any, is lower than the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired, the difference is directly recognized in income.
For each business combination, the purchaser should measure any non-controlling interest in the acquired company at the fair value or amount proportional to its interest in net assets of the acquired company.
| III. | Transactions with non-controlling stockholders |
IFRS 10 – Consolidated Financial Statements establishes that, changes in an ownership interest in a subsidiary, which do not result in a loss of control, are accounted for as capital transactions and any difference between the amount paid and the carrying amount of non-controlling stockholders is recognized directly in consolidated stockholders’ equity.
| b) | Foreign currency translation |
| I. | Functional and presentation currency |
The Consolidated Financial Statements of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING are presented in Brazilian Reais, which is its functional and presentation currency. For each subsidiary and investment in associates and joint ventures, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING defined the functional currency, as set forth in IAS 21 – The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates.
The assets and liabilities of subsidiaries with a functional currency other than the Brazilian Real are translated as follows:
| • | Assets and liabilities are translated at the closing rate at the balance sheet date; |
| • | Income and expenses are translated at monthly average exchange rates; |
| • | Exchange differences arising from currency translation are recorded in other comprehensive income. |
| II. | Foreign currency transactions |
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognized in the consolidated statement of income as part of foreign exchange results and exchange variations on transactions.
| c) | Cash and cash equivalents |
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING defines cash and cash equivalents as cash and current accounts in banks (included in the heading cash and deposits on demand on the Consolidated Balance Sheet), interbank deposits and securities purchased under agreements to resell that have original maturities of up to 90 days or less, as shown in Note 4.
| d) | Financial Assets and Liabilities |
In accordance with IAS 39 - Financial instruments: Recognition and Measurement, Financial Assets and Liabilities, including derivative financial instruments, should be recognized in the Balance Sheet, and measured in accordance with the category in which the instrument was classified.
Financial assets and liabilities may be classified as follows:
|
Categories |
Recognition and Measurement |
|
|
• Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss – held for trading |
• Initial and subsequently recognized at fair value;
• Transaction costs are directly recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income;
• Gains and losses arising from changes in fair value are directly included in Net gain (loss) from investments in securities and derivatives. |
|
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• Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss – designated at fair value |
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• Available-for-sale financial assets (*) |
• Initial and subsequently recognized at fair value plus transaction costs;
• Unrealized gains and losses (except losses for impairment, foreign exchange differences, dividends and interest income) are recognized, net of applicable taxes, in Other comprehensive income. |
|
|
• Held-to-maturity financial assets (*) |
• Initially recognized at fair value plus transaction costs;
• Subsequently measured at amortized cost, using the effective interest rate method. |
|
|
• Loans and receivables |
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|
• Financial liabilities at amortized cost |
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| (*) | Interest, including the amortization of premiums and discounts, is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of income under Interest and similar income. |
The classification of financial assets and liabilities depends on the purpose for which financial assets were acquired or financial liabilities were assumed. Management determines the classification of financial instruments at initial recognition.
Effective interest rate – when calculating the effective interest rate, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING estimates cash flows including all contractual terms of the financial instrument, but does not include future credit losses. The calculation includes all commissions paid or received between parties to the contract, transaction costs, and all other premiums or discounts.
Interest and similar income and expense are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income, in Interest and similar income and Interest and similar expense, respectively.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING classifies as loans and receivables and financial liabilities at amortized cost the following Balance Sheet headings:
|
Loans and receivables |
Financial liabilities at amortized cost |
|
|
• Central Banks compulsory deposits (Note 2.4dl and Note 5);
• Interbank deposits (Note 6);
• Securities purchased under agreements to resell (Note 2.4dll and Note 6);
• Loan operations (Note 2.4dVIII and Note 12); and
• Other financial assets (Note 20a). |
• Deposits (Note 17);
• Securities sold under repurchase agreements (Note 2.4dll and Note 19a);
• Funds from interbank markets (Note 19a);
• Funds from institutional markets (Note 19b);
• Liabilities for capitalization plans; and
• Other financial liabilities (Note 20b). |
Regular purchases and sales of financial assets are recognized and derecognized, respectively, on the trade date.
Financial assets are derecognized when rights to receive cash flows expire or when ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING transfers substantially all risks and rewards of ownership, and such transfer qualifies for write-off in accordance with IAS 39 requirements.
Otherwise, control should be assessed to determine whether the continuous involvement related to any retained control does not prevent write-off. Financial liabilities are derecognized when settled or extinguished.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset against each other and the net amount is reported in the Balance Sheet solely when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognized amounts and intention to settle them on a net basis, or simultaneously realize the asset and settle the liability.
| I – | Central Bank Compulsory deposits |
The Central Banks of the countries in which ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING operates currently impose a number of compulsory deposit requirements on financial institutions. Such requirements are applied to a wide range of banking activities and operations, such as demand, savings, and time deposits.
| II – | Securities purchased under agreements to resell |
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING has purchased securities with resale agreement (resale agreements), and sold securities with repurchase agreement (repurchase agreement) of financial assets. Resale and repurchase agreements are accounted for under Securities purchased under agreements to resell and Securities sold under repurchase agreements, respectively.
The difference between the sale and repurchase prices is treated as interest and recognized over the life of the agreements using the effective interest rate method.
The financial assets accepted as collateral in our resale agreements can be used by us, if provided for in the agreements, as collateral for our repurchase agreements or can be sold.
In Brazil, control over custody of financial assets is centralized and the ownership of investments under resale and repurchase agreements is temporarily transferred to the buyer. ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING strictly monitors the fair value of financial assets received as collateral under our resale agreements and adjusts the collateral amount when appropriate.
Financial assets pledged as collateral to counterparties are also recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements. When the counterparty has the right to sell or re-pledge such instruments, they are presented in the balance sheet under the appropriate class of financial assets.
| lll – | Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss—held for trading |
These are financial assets and liabilities acquired or incurred principally for the purpose of selling them in the short term or when they are part of a portfolio of financial instruments that are managed together and for which there is evidence of a recent history of trading transactions.
| lV – | Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss – designated at fair value |
These are assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss upon initial recognition (fair value option). In accordance with IAS 39, the fair value option can only be applied if it reduces or eliminates accounting mismatches in income or when the financial instruments are part of a portfolio for which risk is managed and reported to Management based on its fair value or when these instruments consist of debt instruments and embedded derivatives that should otherwise be separated.
| V – | Derivatives |
All derivatives are recorded as assets when the fair value is positive and as liabilities when the fair value is negative.
Certain derivatives embedded in other financial instruments are treated as separate derivatives, when their economic characteristics and risks are not closely related to those of the host contract and the host contract is not recognized at fair value through profit or loss. These embedded derivatives are accounted for separately at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income in Net gain (loss) on investment securities and derivatives.
Derivatives can be designated as hedging instruments under hedge accounting and in the event they qualify, depending upon the nature of the hedged item, the method for recognizing gains or losses from changes in fair value will be different. These derivatives, which are used to hedge exposures to risk or modify the characteristics of financial assets and liabilities, and that meet IAS 39 criteria, are recognized as hedge accounting.
In accordance with IAS 39, to qualify for hedge accounting, all of the following conditions are met:
| • | At the inception of the hedge there is formal designation and documentation of the hedging relationship and the entity’s risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge; |
| • | The hedge is expected to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows attributable to the hedged risk, consistent with the originally documented risk management strategy for that particular hedging relationship; |
| • | For a cash flow hedge, a forecast transaction that is the subject of the hedge must be highly probable and must present an exposure to variations in cash flows that could ultimately affect profit or loss; |
| • | The effectiveness of the hedge can be reliably measured, i.e. the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item that are attributable to the hedged risk and the fair value of the hedging instrument can be reliably measured; |
| • | The hedge is assessed on an ongoing basis and it is determined that the hedge has in fact been highly effective throughout the periods for which the hedge was designated. |
IAS 39 presents three hedge accounting categories: fair value hedge, cash flow hedge, and hedge of net investments in a foreign operation.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING uses derivatives as hedging instruments under cash flow hedge strategies, fair value hedge and hedge of net investments, as detailed in Note 9.
Fair value hedge
For derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges, the following practices are adopted:
| a) | The gain or loss arising from the new measurement of the hedge instrument at fair value should be recognized in income; and |
| b) | The gain or loss arising from the hedged item, attributable to the effective portion of the hedged risk, should adjust the book value of the hedged item and also be recognized in income. |
When the derivative expires or is sold or the hedge no longer meets the accounting hedge criteria or the entity revokes the designation, the entity should prospectively discontinue the accounting hedge. In addition, any adjustment in the book value of the hedged item should be amortized in income.
Cash flow hedge
For derivatives that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of derivative gains or losses are recognized in Other comprehensive income – Cash flow hedge, and reclassified to Income in the same period or periods in which the hedged transaction affects income. The portion of gain or loss on derivatives that represents the ineffective portion or the hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness is recognized immediately in income. Amounts originally recorded in Other comprehensive income and subsequently reclassified to Income are recorded in the corresponding income or expense lines in which the related hedged item is reported.
When the derivative expires or is sold or the hedge no longer meets the accounting hedge criteria or the entity revokes the designation, any cumulative gain or loss existing in Other comprehensive income is frozen and is recognized in income when the hedged item is ultimately recognized in the income statement. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss recognized in Other Comprehensive Income is immediately transferred to the statement of income.
Hedge of net investments in foreign operations
The hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation, including hedge of a monetary item that is accounted for as part of the net investment, is accounted for in a manner similar to a cash flow hedge:
| a) | The portion of gain or loss on the hedge instrument determined as effective is recognized in other comprehensive income; |
| b) | The ineffective portion is recognized in income. |
Gains or losses on the hedging instrument related to the effective portion of the hedge which is recognized in comprehensive income are reclassified to the disposal of the investment in the foreign operation.
| VI – | Available-for-sale financial assets |
In accordance with IAS 39, financial assets are classified as available-for-sale when in the Management’s judgment they can be sold in response to or in anticipation of changes in market conditions, and that were not classified into the categories of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, loans and receivables or held to maturity.
The average cost is used to determine the realized Gains and losses on Disposal of available-for-sale financial assets, which are recorded in the consolidated statement of income under Net gain (loss) on Investments in Securities and Derivatives – Available-for-sale financial assets. Dividends on available-for-sale assets are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income as Dividend Income when it is probable that ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING is entitled to receive such dividends and inflow of economic benefits.
| VII – | Held-to-maturity financial assets |
In accordance with IAS 39, the financial assets classified into the held-to-maturity category are non-derivative financial assets for which ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING has the positive intention and ability to hold to maturity.
Both impairment of held-to-maturity financial assets and reversal of this loss are recorded, when applicable, in the Consolidated statement of income.
| VIII – | Loan operations |
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING classifies a loan operation as on non-accrual status if the payment of the principal or interest has been in default for 60 days or more. In this case, accrual of interest is no longer recognized.
When a financial asset or group of similar financial assets is impaired and its carrying amount is reduced through an allowance for loan losses, the subsequent interest income is recognized on the reduced carrying amount using the interest rate used to discount the future cash flows for purposes of measuring the allowance for loan losses.
Both the credit risk and the finance areas are responsible for defining the methodologies used to measure the allowance for loan losses and for assessing changes in the provision amounts on a recurring basis.
These areas monitor the trends observed in allowance for loan losses by segment level, in addition to establishing an initial understanding of the variables that may trigger changes in the allowance for loan losses, the probability of default or the loss given default.
Once the trends have been identified and an initial assessment of the variables has been made at the corporate level, the business areas are responsible for further analyzing these observed trends at a detailed level and for each portfolio, in order to understand the underlying reasons for the trends observed and for deciding whether changes are required in our credit policies.
| IX – | Lease operations (as lessor) |
When assets are subject to a finance lease, the present value of lease payments is recognized as a receivable in the consolidated balance sheet under Loan operations and Lease Operations.
Initial direct costs when incurred by ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING are included in the initial measurement of the lease receivable, reducing the amount of income to be recognized over the lease period. Such initial costs usually include commissions and legal fees.
The recognition of interest income reflects a constant rate of return on the net investment of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING and is recognized in the Consolidated statement of income under Interest and similar income.
| X – | Allowance for loan and lease losses |
General
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING periodically assesses whether there is any objective evidence that a receivable or group of receivables is impaired. A receivable or group of receivables is impaired and there is a need for recognizing an impairment loss if there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the asset (a loss event) and that loss event (or events) has an impact on the estimated future cash flows that can be reliably estimated.
The allowance for loan and lease losses is recognized as probable losses inherent in the portfolio at the balance sheet date. The determination of the level of the allowance rests upon various judgments and assumptions, including current economic conditions, loan portfolio composition, prior loan and lease loss experience and evaluation of credit risk related to individual loans. Our process for determining the allowance for loan and lease losses includes Management’s judgment and the use of estimates. The adequacy of the allowance is regularly analyzed by Management.
The criteria adopted by ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING for determining whether there is objective evidence of impairment include the following:
| • | Default in principal or interest payment. |
| • | Financial difficulties of the debtor and other objective evidence that results in the deterioration of the financial position of the debtor (for example, debt-to-equity ratio, percentage of net sales or other indicators obtained through processes adopted to monitor credit, particularly for retail portfolios). |
| • | Breach of loan clauses or terms. |
| • | Entering into bankruptcy. |
| • | Loss of competitive position of the debtor. |
The estimated period between the loss event and its identification is defined by Management for each portfolio of similar receivables. Considering the representativeness of several homogeneous groups, management chose to use a twelve month period as being the most representative. For portfolios of loans that are individually evaluated for impairment this period is at most 12 months, considering the review cycle for each loan operation.
Assessment
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING first assesses whether objective evidence of impairment exists for receivables that are individually significant, and individually or collectively for receivables that are not individually significant.
To determine the amount of the allowance for individually significant receivables with objective evidence of impairment, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING used methodologies are that consider both the quality of the client and the nature of the transaction, including its collateral, to estimate the cash flows expected from these loans.
If no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed receivable, whether significant or not, the asset is included in a group of receivables with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assessed for impairment. Receivables that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment loss is recognized are not included in the collective assessment. The amount of loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future credit losses that have not been incurred) discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate.
For collectively assessed loans, the calculation of the present value of the estimated future cash flows for which there is collateral reflects the historical performance of the foreclosure and recovery of fair value, considering the cash flows that may arise from foreclosure less costs for obtaining and selling that collateral.
For the purpose of a collective evaluation of impairment, receivables are grouped on the basis of similar credit risk characteristics. The characteristics are relevant to the estimation of future cash flows for such receivables by being indicative of the debtors’ ability to pay all amounts due, according to the contractual terms of the receivables being evaluated. Future cash flows in a group of receivables that are collectively evaluated for purposes of identifying the need for recognizing impairment are estimated on the basis of the contractual cash flows of the group of receivables and historical loss experience for receivables with similar credit risk characteristics. The historical loss experience is adjusted on the basis of current observable data to reflect the effects of current conditions that did not affect the period on which the historical loss experience is based and to remove the effects of conditions in the historical period that do not exist currently.
For individually significant receivables with no objective evidence of impairment, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING classifies these loans into certain rating categories based on several qualitative and quantitative factors applied through internally developed models. Considering the size and the different risk characteristics of each contract, the rating category determined according to internal models can be reviewed and modified by our Corporate Credit Committee, the members of which are executives and officers in corporate credit risk. ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING estimates inherent losses for each rating category considering an internally developed approach for low-default portfolios, that uses our historical experience for building internal models, that are used both to estimate the PD (probability of default) and to estimate the LGD (loss given default).
To determine the amount of the allowance for individually insignificant items loans are segregated into classes considering the underlying risks and characteristics of each group. The allowance for loan and lease losses is determined for each of those classes through a process that considers historical delinquency and loan loss experience over the most recent years.
Measurement
The methodology used to measure the allowance for loan and lease losses was developed internally by the credit risk and finance areas at the corporate level. In those areas and considering the different characteristics of the portfolios, different areas are responsible for defining the methodology to measure the allowance for each: Corporate (including loan operations with objective evidence of impairment and individually significant loan operations but with no objective evidence of impairment), Individuals, Small and Medium Businesses, and Foreign Units Latin America. Each of the four portfolio areas responsible for defining the methodology to measure the allowance for loan and lease losses is further divided into groups, including groups that develop the methodology and groups that validate the methodology. A centralized group in the credit risk area is responsible for measuring the allowance on a recurring basis following the methodologies developed and approved for each of the four areas.
The methodology is based on two components to determine the amount of the allowance: The probability of default by the client or counterparty (PD), and the potential economic loss that may occur in the event of default, being the debt that cannot be recovered (LGD) which are applied to the outstanding balance of the loan. Measurement and assessment of these risk components is part of the process for granting credit and for managing the portfolio. The estimated amounts of PD and LGD are measured based on statistical models that consider a significant number of variables which are different for each class and include, among others, income, equity, past loan experiences, level of indebtedness, economic sectors that affect collectability and other attributes of each counterparty and of the economic environment. These models are regularly updated for changes in economic and business conditions.
A model updating process is started when the modeling area identifies that it is not capturing significant effects of the changes of economic conditions, in the performance of the portfolio or when a change is made in the methodology for calculating the allowance for loan and lease losses. When a change in the model is made, the model is validated through back-testing and statistical methods are used to measure its performance through detailed analysis of its documentation, by describing step-by-step how the process is carried out. The models are validated by an area independent from the one developing it, by issuing a technical report on the assumptions used (integrity, consistency, and replicability of the bases) and on the mathematical methodology used. The technical report is subsequently submitted to CTAM (Model assessment technical committee), which is the highest level of approval of model reviews.
Considering the different characteristics of the loans at each of the four portfolio areas (Corporate (with no objective evidence of impairment), Individuals, Small and Medium Businesses, and Foreign Units Latin America), different areas within the corporate credit risk area are responsible for developing and approving the methodologies for loans in each of those four portfolio areas. Management believes that the fact that different areas focus on each of the four portfolios results in increased knowledge, specialization and awareness of the teams as to the factors that are more relevant for each portfolio area in measuring the loan losses. Also considering such different characteristics and other factors, different inputs and information are used to estimate the PD and LGD as further detailed below:
| • | Corporate (with no evidence of impairment) — factors considered and inputs used are mainly the history of the customer relationship with us, the results of analysis of the customer’s accounting statements and the information obtained through frequent contacts with its officers, aiming at understanding the strategy and the quality of its management. Additionally, industry and macroeconomic factors are also included in the analysis. All those factors (which are quantitative and qualitative) are used as inputs to the internal model developed to determine the corresponding rating category. This approach is also applied to the corporate credit portfolio inside and outside Brazil; |
| • | Individuals – factors considered and inputs used are mainly the history of the customer relationship with us, and information available through credit bureaus (negative information); |
| • | Small / Medium Businesses – factors considered and inputs used include, in addition to the history of the customer relationship and credit bureau information about the customer’s revenues, industry expertise, and information about its shareholders and officers, among others; |
| • | Foreign Units – Latin America – considering the relative smaller size of this portfolio and its more recent nature, the models are simpler and use the past due status and an internal rating of the customer as main factors. |
Reversal, write-off, and renegotiation
If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the impairment loss decreases and the decrease is objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment was recognized (such as an improvement in the debtor’s credit rating), the previously recognized impairment is reversed. The amount of reversal is recognized in the consolidated statement of Income under Expense for allowance for loan and lease losses.
When a loan is uncollectible, it is written-off in the balance sheet under allowance for loan and lease losses. Write-off as losses occur after 360 days of credits have matured or after 540 days for loans with maturities over 36 months.
In almost all cases for loan products, renegotiated loans require at least one payment to be made under the renegotiated terms in order for it to be removed from nonperforming and nonaccrual status. Renegotiated loans return to nonperforming and nonaccrual status when they reach 60 days past due under the renegotiated terms, which typically corresponds to the borrower missing two or more payments.
| e) | Investments in associates and joint ventures |
I – Associates
In conformity with IAS 28 — Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures, associates are companies in which the investor has a significant influence but does not hold control. Investments in these companies are initially recognized at cost of acquisition and subsequently accounted for using the equity method. Investments in associates and joint ventures include the goodwill identified upon acquisition, net of any cumulative impairment loss.
II – Joint arrangements
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING reviews the nature of its joint business to assess whether it has joint operations and joint ventures. Joint ventures are recognized by the equity method in conformity with the requirements of IFRS 11 – Joint Arrangements.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING’s share in profits or losses of its associates and joint ventures after acquisition is recognized in the Consolidated statement of income. Its share of the changes in the reserves of corresponding stockholders’ equity of its associates and joint ventures is recognized in its own reserves of stockholders’ equity. The cumulative changes after acquisition are adjusted against the carrying amount of the investment. When the ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING share of losses of an associates and joint ventures is equal or above its interest in the associates and joint ventures, including any other receivables, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING does not recognize additional losses, unless it has incurred any obligations or made payments on behalf of the associates and joint ventures.
Unrealized profits on transactions between ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING and its associates and joint ventures are eliminated to the extent of the interest of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING. Unrealized losses are also eliminated, unless the transaction provides evidence of impairment of the transferred asset. The accounting policies on associates and joint ventures are consistent with the policies adopted by ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING.
If the interest in the associates and joint ventures decreases, but ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING retains significant influence or joint control, only the proportional amount of the previously recognized amounts in Other comprehensive income is reclassified in Income, when appropriate.
Gains and losses from dilution arising from investments in associates and joint ventures are recognized in the consolidated statement of income.
| f) | Lease commitments (as lessee) |
As a lessee, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING has finance and operating lease agreements.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING leases certain fixed assets, and those substantially holding the risks and benefits incidental to the ownership are classified as finance leases.
Each lease installment paid is allocated part to liabilities and part to financial charges, so that a constant rate is obtained for the outstanding debt balance. Corresponding obligations, net of future financial charges, are included in Other financial liabilities. Interest expenses are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income over the lease term, to produce a constant periodic interest rate on the remaining liabilities balance for each period.
Expenses related to operating leases are recognized in the Consolidated statement of income, on a straight-line basis, over the period of lease.
When an operating lease is terminated before the end of the lease term, any payment to be made to the lessor as a penalty is recognized as an expense in the period the termination occurs.
| g) | Fixed assets |
According to IAS 16 – Property, Plant and Equipment, fixed assets are recognized at cost of acquisition less accumulated depreciation, and adjusted for impairment, if applicable. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method and rates based on the estimated useful lives of these assets. These rates and other information are presented in Note 15.
The residual values and useful lives of assets are reviewed and adjusted, if appropriate, at the end of each year.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING reviews its assets in order to identify whether any indications of impairment exist. If such indications are identified, fixed assets are tested for impairment. In accordance with IAS 36 – Impairment of assets, impairment losses are recognized for the difference between the carrying and recoverable amount of an asset (or group of assets), in the Consolidated statement of income. The recoverable amount of an asset is defined as the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. For purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest level for which independent cash flows can be identified (cash-generating units). The assessment may be made at an individual asset level when the fair value less the cost to sell may be reliably determined.
Gains and losses on disposals of fixed assets are recognized in the Consolidated statement of income under Other income or General and administrative expenses.
| h) | Goodwill |
In accordance with IFRS 3 – Business combinations, goodwill may arise on an acquisition and represents the excess of the consideration transferred plus non-controlling interest over the net fair value of the net identifiable assets and contingent liabilities of the acquiree. Goodwill is not amortized, but its recoverable amount is tested for impairment semi-annually or when there is any indication of impairment, using an approach that involves the identification of cash-generating units and estimates of fair value less cost to sell and/or value in use.
As defined in IAS 36 – Impairment of assets, a cash-generating unit is the lowest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets. Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment testing. The allocation is made to those cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the business combination.
IAS 36 determines that an impairment loss shall be recognized for a cash-generating unit if the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than its carrying amount. The loss shall be allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the cash-generating unit, and then to the other assets of the unit on a pro rata basis applied to the carrying amount of each asset. The loss cannot reduce the carrying amount of an asset below the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. The impairment loss of goodwill cannot be reversed.
Goodwill arising from the acquisition of subsidiaries is presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet under the line Goodwill.
Goodwill of associates and joint ventures is reported as part of investment in the Consolidated Balance Sheet under Investments in associates and joint ventures, and the impairment test is carried out in relation to the total balance of the investments (including goodwill).
| i) | Intangible assets |
Intangible assets are non-physical assets, including software and other assets, and are initially recognized at cost. Intangible assets are recognized when they arise from legal or contractual rights, their costs can be reliably measured, and in the case of intangible assets not arising from separate acquisitions or business combinations, it is probable that future economic benefits may arise from their use. The balance of intangible assets refers to acquired assets or those internally generated.
Intangible assets may have finite or indefinite useful lives. Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but periodically tested in order to identify any impairment.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING semi-annually assesses its intangible assets in order to identify whether any indications of impairment exist, as well as possible reversal of previous impairment losses. If such indications are found, intangible assets are tested for impairment. In accordance with IAS 36, impairment losses are recognized as the difference between the carrying and the recoverable amount of an asset (or group of assets), and recognized in the Consolidated statement of income. The recoverable amount of an asset is defined as the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. For purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest level for which independent cash flows can be identified (cash-generating units). The assessment may be made at an individual asset level when the fair value less the cost to sell may be reliably determined.
As set forth in IAS 38, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING elected the cost model to measure its intangible assets after its initial recognition.
The breakdown of intangible assets is described in Note 16.
| j) | Assets held for sale |
Assets held for sale are recognized in the balance sheet when they are actually repossessed or there is intention to sell. These assets are initially recorded at the lower of: (i) the fair value of the asset less the estimated selling expenses, or (ii) the carrying amount of the related asset held for sale.
| k) | Income tax and social contribution |
There are two components of the provision for income tax and social contribution: current and deferred.
Current income tax expense approximates taxes to be paid or recovered for the applicable period. Current assets and liabilities are recorded in the balance sheet under Tax assets – income tax and social contribution—current and tax liabilities – income tax and Social contribution – current, respectively.
Deferred income tax and social contribution represented by deferred tax assets and liabilities are obtained based on the differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and the amounts reported in the financial statements at each year end. The tax benefit of tax loss carry forwards is recognized as an asset. Deferred tax assets are only recognized when it is probable that future taxable income will be available for offsetting. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized in the balance sheet under Tax assets – Income tax and social contribution – Deferred and Tax liabilities – Income tax and social contribution—Deferred, respectively.
Income tax and social contribution expense is recognized in the Consolidated statement of income under Income tax and social contribution, except when it refers to items directly recognized in Other comprehensive income, such as: deferred tax on fair value measurement of available-for-sale financial assets, and tax on cash flow hedges. Deferred taxes of such items are initially recognized in Other comprehensive income and subsequently recognized in Income together with the recognition of the gain / loss originally deferred.
Changes in tax legislation and rates are recognized in the Consolidated statement of income under Income tax and social contribution in the period in which they are enacted. Interest and fines are recognized in the Consolidated statement of income under General and administrative expenses. Income tax and social contribution are calculated at the rates shown below, considering the respective taxable bases, based on the current legislation related to each tax, which in the case of the operations in Brazil are for all the reporting periods as follows:
|
Income tax |
15.00 | % | ||
|
Additional income tax |
10.00 | % | ||
|
Social contribution (*) |
20.00 | % |
| (*) | On october 06, 2015, Law No. 13,169, a conversion of Provisional Measure No. 675, which increased the Social Contribution tax rate from 15.00% to 20.00% until december 31, 2018, for financial institutions, insurance companies and credit card management companies, was introduced. For the other companies, the tax rate remains at 9.00%. |
To determine the proper level of provisions for taxes to be maintained for uncertain tax positions, a two-phased approach was applied, according to which a tax benefit is recognized if it is more probable than not that a position can be sustained. The benefit amount is then measured to be the highest tax benefit which probability of realization is over 50%.
| l) | Insurance contracts and private pension |
IFRS 4 – “Insurance contracts” defines insurance contracts as contracts under which the issuer accepts a significant insurance risk of the counterparty, by agreeing to compensate it if a specified uncertain future event adversely affects it. An insurance risk is significant only if the insurance event could cause an issuer to pay significant additional benefits in any scenario, except for those that do not have commercial substance. Additional benefits refer to amounts that exceed those that would be payable if no insured event occurred.
At the time of the first-time adoption of IFRS, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING decided not to change its accounting policies for insurance contracts, which follow the accounting practices generally accepted in Brazil (“BRGAAP”).
Although investment agreements with discretionary participation characteristics are financial instruments, they are treated as insurance contracts, as established by IFRS 4, as well as those transferring a significant financial risk.
These agreements may be reclassified as insurance contracts after their initial classification should the insurance risk become significant.
Once the contract is classified as an insurance contract, it remains as such until the end of its life, even if the insurance risk is significantly reduced during such period, unless all rights and obligations are extinguished or expired.
Note 30 presents a detailed description of all products classified as insurance contracts.
Private pension plans
Contracts that contemplate retirement benefits after an accumulation period (known as PGBL, VGBL and FGB) assure, at the commencement date of the contract, the basis for calculating the retirement benefit (mortality table and minimum interest). The contracts specify the annuity fees and, therefore, the contract transfers the insurance risk to the issuer at the commencement date, and they are classified as insurance contracts.
Insurance premiums
Insurance premiums are recognized by issuing an insurance policy or over the period of the contracts in proportion to the amount of the insurance coverage. Insurance premiums are recognized as income in the Consolidated statement of income.
If there is evidence of impairment losses with respect to receivables for insurance premiums, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING recognizes a provision, sufficient to cover this loss, based on the risk analysis of realization of insurance premiums receivable with installments overdue for over 60 days.
Reinsurance
Reinsurance premiums are recognized over the same period in which the related insurance premiums are recognized in the consolidated statement of income.
In the ordinary course of business, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING reinsures a portion of the risks underwritten, particularly property and casualty risks that exceed the maximum limits of responsibility that we determine to be appropriate for each segment and product (after a study which considers size, experience, specificities, and the necessary capital to support these limits). These reinsurance agreements allow the recovery of a portion of the losses from the reinsurer, although they do not release the insurer from the main obligation as direct insurer of the risks contemplated in the reinsurance.
Acquisition costs
Acquisition costs include direct and indirect costs related to the origination of insurance. These costs, except for the commissions paid to brokers and others, are expensed directly in income as incurred. Commissions, on the other hand, are deferred and expensed in proportion to the recognition of the premium revenue, i.e. over the period of the corresponding insurance contract.
Liabilities
Reserves for claims are established based on historical experience, claims in process of payment, estimated amounts of claims incurred but not yet reported, and other factors relevant to the required reserve levels. A liability for premium deficiencies is recognized if the estimated amount of premium deficiencies exceeds deferred acquisition costs. Expenses related to recognition of liabilities for insurance contracts are recognized in the Consolidated statement of income under Change in reserves for insurance and private pension.
Embedded derivatives
We have not identified any embedded derivatives in our insurance contracts, which may be separated or measured at fair value in accordance with IFRS 4 requirements.
Liability adequacy test
IFRS 4 requires that the insurance companies analyze the adequacy of their insurance liabilities in each reporting period through a minimum adequacy test. ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING conducts the liability adequacy test under IFRS by adopting current actuarial assumptions for future cash flows of all insurance contracts in force at the balance sheet date.
Should the analysis show insufficiency, any deficiency identified will be immediately accounted for in income for the period.
The assumptions used to conduct the liability adequacy test are detailed in Note 30f.
| m) | Capitalization plans |
For regulatory purposes in Brazil they are regulated by the insurance regulator. These plans do not meet the definition of an insurance contract under IFRS 4, and therefore they are classified as a financial liability at amortized cost under IAS 39.
Revenue from capitalization plans is recognized during the period of the contract and measured as the difference between the amount deposited by the client and the amount that ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING has to reimburse.
| n) | Post-employments benefits |
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING is required to make contributions to government social security and labor indemnity plans, in Brazil and in other countries where it operates, which are expensed in the consolidated statement of income as an integral part of general and administrative expenses, when incurred.
Additionally, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING also sponsors Defined Benefit Plans and Defined Contribution Plans, accounted for in accordance with IAS 19 – “Employee benefits”.
Pension plans—Defined benefit plans
The liability (or asset, as the case may be) recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet with respect to the defined benefit plan corresponds to the present value of defined benefit obligations at the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets. Defined benefit obligations are calculated on a yearly basis by an independent actuarial advisor based on the projected unit credit method. The present value of defined benefit obligations is determined by discounting the estimated amount of future cash flows of benefit payments based on Brazilian government securities denominated in Reais and with maturity periods similar to the term of the pension plan liabilities. They are recognized in the Consolidated statement of income:
| • | current service cost – defined as the increase in the present value of obligations resulting from employee service in the current period. |
| • | interest on the net amount of assets (liabilities) of defined benefit plans is the change, during the period, in the net amount recognized in assets and liabilities, due to the time elapsed, which comprises the interest income on plan assets, interest expense on the obligations of the defined benefit plan and interest on the asset ceiling effects. |
Actuarial gains and losses arising from the non-adoption of the assumptions established in the latest evaluation, as compared to those effectively carried out or changes in such assumptions, as well as the effects of changes in these assumptions. Gains and losses are fully recognized in Other comprehensive income.
Pension plans—defined contribution
For defined contribution plans, contributions to plans made by ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING, through pension plan funds, are recognized as an expense when due.
Other post-employment benefit obligations
Certain companies that merged into ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING over the past few years were sponsors of post-employment healthcare benefit plans and ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING is contractual committed to maintain such benefits over specific periods, as well as in relation to the benefits granted due to a judicial ruling.
Likewise the defined benefit pension plans, these obligations are assessed annually by independent and qualified actuaries, and costs expected from these benefits are accumulated during the employment period and gains and losses arising from adjustments of practices and changes in actuarial assumptions are recognized in Stockholders’ equity, under Other comprehensive income, in the period they occurred.
| o) | Share-based payment |
Share-based payment is accounted for in accordance with IFRS 2 - “Share-based payment” which requires the entity to measure the value of equity instruments granted, based on their fair value at the option grant date. This cost is recognized during the vesting period of the right to exercise the instruments.
The total amount to be expensed is determined by reference to the fair value of the options granted excluding the impact of any service and non-market performance vesting conditions (notably remaining an employee of the entity over a specified time period). The fulfillment of on-market vesting conditions is included in the assumptions about the number of options that are expected to be exercised. At the end of each period, ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING revises its estimates of the number of options that are expected to be exercised based on non-market vesting conditions. It recognizes the impact of the revision of the original estimates, if any, in the consolidated statement of income, with a corresponding adjustment to stockholders’ equity.
When the options are exercised, the ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING treasury shares are generally delivered to the beneficiaries.
The fair value of stock options is estimated by using option pricing models that take into account the exercise price of the option, the current stock price, the risk-free interest rate, the expected volatility of the stock price and the life of the option.
All stock based compensation plans established by ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING correspond to plans that can be settled exclusively through the delivery of shares.
| p) | Financial guarantees |
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING recognizes the fair value of the guarantees issued in the Consolidated balance sheet under Other liabilities. Fair value is generally represented by the fee charged to client for issuing the guarantee. This amount at the issuance date is amortized over the life of the guarantee issued and recognized in the Consolidated statement of income under Banking service fees.
After issuance, based on the best estimate, if ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING concludes that the occurrence of a loss regarding a guarantee issued is probable, and if the loss amount is higher than the initial fair value less cumulative amortization, a provision will be recognized for such amount.
| q) | Provisions, contingent assets and contingent liabilities |
Provisions, contingent assets and contingent liabilities are assessed, recognized and disclosed in accordance with IAS 37 - Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets. Contingent assets and liabilities are potential rights and obligations arising from past events for which materialization depends on uncertain future events.
Contingent assets are not recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements, except when the Management of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING understands that realization is virtually certain, which generally corresponds to lawsuits with favorable rulings, in final and unappealable judgments, withdrawal from lawsuits as a result of a payment in settlement or as a result of an agreement to offset against an existing liability.
Contingent liabilities mainly arise from administrative proceedings and lawsuits, inherent in the ordinary course of business, filed by third parties, former employees and governmental bodies, in connection with civil, labor, and tax and social security claims.
These contingencies are evaluated based on Management’s best estimates, and are classified as:
| • | Probable: in which liabilities are recognized in the consolidated balance sheet under Provisions. |
| • | Possible: which are disclosed in the Consolidated Financial Statements, but no provision is recorded. |
| • | Remote: which require neither a provision nor disclosure. |
Contingent liabilities recorded under Provisions and those disclosed as possible are measured using best estimates through the use of models and criteria which allow their appropriate measurement even if there is uncertainty as to their ultimate timing and amount, and the criteria are detailed in Note 32.
The amount of court escrow deposits is adjusted in accordance with current legislation.
Contingent liabilities guaranteed by indemnity clauses provided by third parties, such as in business combinations carried out before the transition date to IFRS, are recognized when a claim is asserted, and a receivable is recognized simultaneously subject to its collectability. For business combinations carried out after the transition date, indemnification assets are recognized at the same time and measured on the same basis as the indemnified item, subject to collectability or contractual limitations on the indemnified amount.
| r) | Capital |
Common and preferred shares, which are equivalent to common shares but without voting rights are classified in Stockholders’ equity. The additional costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares are included in Stockholders’ equity as a deduction from the proceeds, net of taxes.
| s) | Treasury shares |
Common and preferred shares repurchased are recorded in Stockholders’ equity under Treasury shares at their average purchase price.
Shares that are subsequently sold, such as those sold to grantees under our share-based payment, are recorded as a reduction in treasury shares, measured at the average price of treasury stock held at such date.
The difference between the sale price and the average price of the treasury shares is recorded as a reduction or increase in Additional paid-in capital. The cancellation of treasury shares is recorded as a reduction in Treasury shares against Appropriated reserves, at the average price of treasury shares at the cancellation date.
| t) | Dividends and interest on capital |
Minimum dividend amounts established in the bylaws are recorded as liabilities at the end of each year. Any other amount above the mandatory minimum dividend is accounted for as a liability when approved by stockholders at a Stockholders´ Meeting.
Interest on capital is treated for accounting purposes as a dividend, and it is presented as a reduction of stockholders’ equity in the consolidated financial statements. The related tax benefit is recorded in the consolidated statement of income.
Dividends have been and continue to be calculated and paid based on the financial statements prepared under Brazilian accounting standards and regulations for financial institutions and not based on these Consolidated financial statements prepared under IFRS.
Dividends and interest on capital are presented in Note 21.
| u) | Earnings per share |
Earnings per share are computed by dividing net income attributable to the owners of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING by the weighted average number of common and preferred shares outstanding for each reporting year. Weighted average shares are computed based on the periods for which the shares were outstanding.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING grants stock-based compensation whose dilutive effect is reflected in diluted earnings per share, with the application of the “treasury stock method“. Under the treasury stock method, earnings per share are calculated as if shares under stock-based compensation plans had been issued and as if the assumed proceeds were used to purchase shares of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING.
Earnings per share are presented in Note 28.
| v) | Revenue from services |
Services related to current accounts are offered to clients either in formal packages or individually, and their income is recognized when these services are provided.
Revenue from certain services, such as fees from funds management, performance, collection for retail clients and custody, is recognized over the life of the related contracts on a straight-line basis.
The breakdown of the banking service fees is detailed in Note 24.
| w) | Segment information |
Segment information is disclosed consistently with the internal report prepared for the Executive Committee, which makes the operational decisions of ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING.
ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING has three reportable segments: (i) Retail Banking (ii) Wholesale Banking and (iii) Activities with the Market + Corporation.
Segment information is presented in Note 34.