Read our insights

The new leases standard, IFRS 16, brings with it both greater transparency and a number of challenges for businesses. It requires companies to bring all operating leases on to the balance sheet for accounting periods starting on or after 1 January 2019, those still getting to grips with IFRS 16 need to act quickly to ensure compliance.

2022 saw profound changes in the world including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with its resulting energy crisis and the downgrade of global growth projections. I found myself increasingly proud of the collective resilience shown by Grant Thornton member firms, as they responded to these unique challenges while continuing to support their people and clients.

Saudi Arabia (KSA) is undergoing a significant digital transformation across various sectors, and the accounting field is no exception. As technology advances, KSA's Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) have immense opportunities to harness digital tools and streamline financial processes. This article explores the digital transformation in KSA, the impact on accounting practices, and how CFOs can leverage technology to enhance economic efficiency and effectiveness.

With share-based payments becoming increasingly popular over the years with many entities, this article discusses the accounting for equity-settled share-based payment transactions with employees.

This article discusses the basic principles that apply to both equity-settled and cash-settled share-based payment transactions with employees or others providing similar services.

In April 2024, the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) introduced IFRS 18: Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements, marking a significant shift from IAS 1. Effective for annual reporting periods starting 1 January 2027, IFRS 18 requires mandatory retrospective application, emphasising early preparation to ensure a seamless transition. We share below a high-level summary of the changes introduced, along with a detailed guide for your reference.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is challenging. Each year, new Standards and amendments are published by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). These changes have the potential to significantly impact the presentation of a complete set of financial statements, and 2024 is no different.

On Friday, 26th July 2024, ZATCA announced, through Umm Al Qura issue No. 5040, the 14th wave of taxpayers required to implement Phase 2 of e-invoicing integration. This phase now encompasses taxpayers whose taxable revenues exceeded SAR 5.00 million in 2022 or 2023.

On 9 April 2024 the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) published a new standard, its first since 2017. The new standard, IFRS 18 ‘Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements’ (the Standard) replaces IAS 1 ‘Presentation of Financial Statements’ and will impact every reporting entity that currently uses International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

This year has brought significant updates to the International Financial Reporting Standards, addressing various global economic challenges. From amendments in response to hyperinflation in specific countries to changes enhancing the transparency of supplier finance arrangements, these updates are crucial for maintaining compliance and accuracy in financial reporting.

Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) determines the criteria for selecting the targeted taxpayers in the tenth wave for implementing the "Integration Phase " of E-invoicing, as it clarified that the tenth wave included all taxpayers whose revenues subject to VAT exceeded (25 million Saudi Riyals) during 2022 or 2023.

The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) issued IFRS 17 ‘Insurance Contracts’ to replace the identically titled, interim standard, IFRS 4. The new Standard came into effect for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2023. As its title suggests, IFRS 17 addresses the accounting for insurance contracts rather than being explicitly aimed at insurance entities. As a result, it applies equally to insurance contracts issued by insurance and non-insurance entities.

Saudi Arabia made a significant announcement on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. The kingdom has unveiled a generous tax incentive programme to attract foreign companies to establish their regional headquarters within its borders. This bold move includes a remarkable 30-year exemption from corporate income tax, showcasing Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering a vibrant business environment.

Following the recent announcement by ZATCA (The General Authority of Zakat and Tax) on November 17, 2023, through Umm Al Qura issue No. 5007, the 9th wave of taxpayers has been identified for implementing Phase 2 of e-invoicing. This wave now includes taxpayers whose taxable revenues exceeded SAR 30.00 million during 2021 or 2022.

In a recent development, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Finance has sanctioned a series of amendments to the income tax and Zakat regulations. These changes, published in the Official Gazette on September 12, 2023, are expected to substantially impact businesses operating in or with Saudi Arabia. Here, we delve into the nuances of these amendments and what they signify for the corporate sector.

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) published its e-invoicing regulations on 4 December 2020, which was also effective from the date of publication. The regulations stipulated that e-invoicing would become mandatory for taxpayers by 4 December 2021. As phase one draws to an end, phase two becomes enforceable from 1 January, 2023 in waves. Taxpayers must ensure they are prepared.