21/03/2026
IAS 37 _ Provision and Contingencies
Core Principle of this IAS is to ensures that liabilities are:
✔ Recognized only when real obligations exist
✔ Measured reliably
✔ Not overstated or understated
So what is Provision ?
A provision is a liability of uncertain timing or amount.
In order to recognize provision, it has to meet criteria (ALL 3 must be met):
1. Present obligation (legal or constructive)
2. Probable outflow of economic resources (>50%)
3. Reliable estimate can be made
Types of Obligations
1. Legal Obligation:Based on contract or law
Example: lawsuit, tax penalty
2. Constructive Obligation:Arises from company behavior, policy, or past practice.
Example:Company always compensates customers even without legal requirement → creates expectation
3. Measurement of Provision
Provision should be measured at best estimate of expenditure required
Method :
1.Expected value → for many similar items
2. Most likely outcome → for single obligation
Note: something that you should also consider :
- Risks & uncertainties
-Future events (if reliable)
-Discounting (if time value is material)
How about what is Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets?
Contingent Liabilities :possible obligation depending on uncertain future event or present obligation but Not probable, or Cannot measure reliably.
Accounting Treatment :
Don't recognize it but disclose in notes ( if material )
Contingent Assets:possible asset from future events (e.g., lawsuit win).
Accounting Treatment:
Don't recognize it but Disclose only if probable
Note:Only recognize when virtually certain