International Accounting Standards (IAS). Transition of Existing to New Accounting Standards in a Rapid Changing Environment. The Impact of Adoption of New Accounting Standards in the Developed Economies in European Union. Conclusions, Expectations and Perspectives

Adopting a set of accounting standards on a global level derives from the growing globalization of international economies. However, the transition from old to new ones is challenging in a rapidly changing economic environment. This article presents an assessment of IFRS 8 (Operating Segments) adoption, after replacing IAS 14 (Segment Reporting), and examines the impact occurred in the developed economies within the EU, with relevant considerations referring to the current COVID-19 global pandemic situation.This study analyzes the effect of this controversial standard on segment reporting and attempts to identify the determinants of changes in disclosure practices. Based on a four country sample, the current research identifies specific significant financial information changes, although segmentation remains relatively stable. Furthermore, the study includes relevant considerations on reporting, as reflected from current COVID-19 pandemic.The present research includes a historical reference to the development of the accounting standards under examination. Conclusions, expectations, and future perspectives are also presented in the paper.