Intangible assets
Intangible assets include licenses, customer relationships and non-compete agreements. The accounting policies for the recognition and measurement of these intangible assets are described below.
3.9.1 – Intangible assets acquired separately
Intangible assets with finite useful life that are acquired separately (licenses) are carried at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses. Amortization is recognized on a straight-line basis over the intangible assets estimated useful lives. The estimated useful lives and amortization method are reviewed at the end of each annual reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimates being accounted for on a prospective basis.
3.9.2 – Intangible assets acquired in a business combination
Intangible assets acquired in a business combination (trademarks, customer relationships and non-compete agreements) are recognized separately from goodwill and are initially recognized at their fair value at the acquisition date (which is regarded as their cost).
Subsequent to initial recognition, intangible assets acquired in a business combination are reported at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, on the same basis as intangible assets acquired separately.
3.9.3 – Internally-generated intangible assets
Intangible assets arising from development are recognized if, and only if, all the following have been demonstrated:
- the technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for use or sale;
- the intention to complete the intangible asset and use or sell it;
- the ability to use or sell the intangible asset;
- how the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits;
- the ability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the intangible asset, and
- the ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development.
The amount initially recognized for internally-generated assets is the sum of expenditure incurred from the date when the intangible asset first meets the recognition criteria listed above. Where no internally-generated intangible asset can be recognized, development expenditure is recognized in profit or loss in the period in which it is incurred.
Subsequent to initial recognition, intangible assets are reported at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, on the same basis as intangible assets that are acquired separately.
3.9.4 – Derecognition of intangible assets
An intangible asset is derecognized on disposal, or when no future economic benefits are expected from use or disposal. Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset, measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset, and are recognized in profit or loss when the asset is derecognized. No intangible asset has been derecognized in the last three years.
