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Tis the season for impairment | Get the tools you need to make the auditing process a breeze

Impairment is one of ASIC’s key areas of focus again for 30 June 2019, so we’ve summarised the resources and tools available to assist you in preparing your analysis.

Summary of key impairment issues

A great summary of impairment concepts is available in the Chartered Accountants Audit Committee Guide which was co-authored by Leadenhall. It covers what impairment means, why it is important and raises questions directors should ask in relation to the methodology used, projected cash flows and disclosures. The guide is designed to provide useful information for directors for year-end reporting in understanding some of the more detailed requirements of asset impairment testing.

Free tools

Did you know that Leadenhall offers a range of free tools and resources? We’re pleased to provide the following models to assist with your impairment preparation.

  • Impairment model – in addition to our standard DCF valuation model, we’ve prepared a free rate impairment-specific DCF model which you can use for your analysis, available here.
  • Discount rate model – we’ve prepared a free discount rate model which allows you to correctly build-up a discount rate from first principles which is available here.

To complete the discount rate model, you’ll need our latest assessment of market risk premium (MRP). You can find the latest one here, under ‘Articles & Publications.’

Economic snapshots

Our international affiliates at VRG have just released the Q2 2019 economic snapshots for 16 countries which you can leverage for estimating long-term macroeconomic assumptions for these regions such as inflation, GDP growth, etc. Coverage includes: United States, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Spain, Switzerland and United Kingdom. Click here to view the snapshots.

Training

You can access a range of training on impairment and other related topics via the Chartered Accountants website, including an impairment fundamental series (via recorded webinar) presented by Simon Dalgarno (Leadenhall) and Kevin Frohbus (BDO). Click here to access the training or learn more.

Questions

Whilst you can access a range of free tools and resources, please remember we’re always here if you have a question or need a hand. Click here to contact us for further support.

 

 

OTHER NEWS

Discount Rate 30 June 2026

MARKET DISCOUNT RATES – 30 JUNE 2026

Inflation remains high, although there are signs that inflationary pressures are moderating following three consecutive increases to the cash rate target since December 2025. Global energy supply continues to be impacted by the conflict in the Middle East, with resolution remaining uncertain. The selection of a reasonable discount rate therefore remains a key consideration, whether for the purpose of financial reporting or for any valuation analysis.

31 May 2026 discount rate update

MARKET DISCOUNT RATES – 31 MAY 2026

Markets have been volatile over the last few months as conflict in the Middle East has led to substantial increases in oil prices and higher inflation expectations, at least in the near-term. With government bond yields at their highest levels since 2011 and market conditions continuing to evolve, we have provided an early warning on our assessment of the equity market risk premium (EMRP) as at 31 May 2026 for Australia.

Impairment testing this reporting season: why discount rates matter more than ever

Impairment testing this reporting season: why discount rates matter more than ever

In the current environment, it is not just a compliance exercise. It is a judgement call that can materially influence reported results. At the centre of that judgement is the discount rate, often one of the most sensitive and closely scrutinised inputs in any impairment model. Get it wrong and the consequences are real. Asset values can be distorted, audit challenges can emerge, and confidence in reported outcomes can be undermined.