Anomalies of the control principle as part of the consolidated financial reporting concept

Abstract

Subject. The article discusses the impact of the control principle on the existing consolidated financial reporting concept. Objectives. I evaluate possible alterations in the consolidation methodology as a result of the anomaly of the control principle. Methods. The study is based on the method of analogy for scientific hypothesizing. The study methodologically relies upon Thomas Kuhn's paradigm shift theory and the impact of anomalies on methodological principles of normal science. The study combines the analysis and synthesis, induction and deduction, and the method of comparison when analyzing the existing control criteria and identifying anomalies of the control principles as part of the consolidated financial reporting concept, and examining how the anomaly influences the consolidation methodology. Results. I discovered that the control principle in the consolidated financial reporting concept influences the consolidation methodology. I suggest using my own methodological approach to preparing consolidated financial statements in case of the non-equity control the parent company holds over its subsidiary. Conclusions and Relevance. The control principle in the consolidated financial reporting concept has not been formalized, thus causing anomalies affecting methodological principles of consolidated financial reporting. The non-equity control of the parent company over its subsidiary is a case in point. This control induces unavoidable changes in the consolidation methodology. The findings can be used to prepare consolidated financial statements in case of the non-equity control of the parent company over its subsidiary.