UNIT

Ind AS-38:
20 Intangible Assets

1. Scope
This Standard shall be applied in accounting for intangible assets, except
1 • Intangible assets that are within the scope of another Standard
2 • Financial assets
3 • Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral Resources
If another Standard prescribes the accounting for a specific type of intangible asset, an entity
applies that Standard instead of this Standard. For example, this Standard does not apply to:
2. This Standard applies to, among other things;
 expenditure on advertising,
 training,
 start-up,
 research and development activities.
3. Intangible Asset
Intangible asset is an:
 Identifiable
 Non-monetary
 Asset
 Without physical substance.
4. Recognition and Measurement
The recognition of an item as an intangible asset requires an entity to demonstrate that the
item meets:
(a) the definition of an intangible asset; and
(b) the recognition criteria.
5. Separate Acquisition
The cost of a separately acquired intangible asset would comprise:
(a) its purchase price, including import duties and non-refundable purchase taxes, after
deducting trade discounts and rebates; and
(b) any directly attributable cost of preparing the asset for its intended use.
6. Acquisition as part of a Business Combination
In accordance with Ind AS 103, ‘Business Combinations’, if an intangible asset is acquired in
a business combination, the cost of that intangible asset is its fair value at the acquisition date. If
an asset acquired in a business combination is separable or arises from contractual or other legal
rights, sufficient information would exist to measure reliably the fair value of the asset.
470 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20
7. Acquisition by way of a Government Grant
In some cases, an intangible asset may be acquired free of charge, or for nominal
consideration by way of a government grant.
This may happen when a government transfers or allocates to an entity intangible assets
such as:
8. Exchange of Assets
One or more intangible assets may be acquired in exchange for:
 A non-monetary asset or assets, or
 A combination of monetary and non-monetary assets.
The cost of such an intangible asset is measured at fair value unless:
(a) the exchange transaction lacks commercial substance or
(b) the fair value of neither the asset received nor the asset given up is reliably measurable.
9. Internally Generated Goodwill
Internally generated goodwill shall not be recognised as an asset.
Internally generated goodwill is not recognised as an asset because it is not an identifiable
resource (i.e. it is neither separable nor does it arise from contractual or other legal rights)
controlled by the entity that can be measured reliably at cost.
10. Internally Generated Intangible Assets-Requirements and Guidance
To assess whether an internally generated intangible asset meets the criteria for recognition,
an entity classifies the generation of the asset into:
(a) a research phase; and
(b) a development phase.
11. Research Phase
No intangible asset arising from research (or from the research phase of an internal project)
shall be recognised.
12. Development Phase
An intangible asset arising from development (or from the development phase of an internal
project) shall be recognised if, and only if, an entity can demonstrate all of the following:
(a) the technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for
use or sale.
(b) its intention to complete the intangible asset and use or sell it.
(c) its ability to use or sell the intangible asset.
(d) how the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits. Among other
things, the entity can demonstrate the existence of a market for the output of the
intangible asset or the intangible asset itself or, if it is to be used internally, the usefulness
of the intangible asset.
(e) the availability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the
development and to use or sell the intangible asset.
(f) its ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible ass et during its
development.
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 471
13. Measurement after Recognition
1. Cost Model: After initial recognition, an intangible asset shall be carried at cost less any
accumulated amortisation less any accumulated impairment losses
2. Revaluation Model: After initial recognition, an intangible asset shall be carried at a
revalued amount, being fair value at the date of the revaluation less any subsequent
accumulated amortisation less any subsequent accumulated impairment losses
Treatment of Revaluation Gains and Losses : If an intangible asset’s carrying amount is
increased as a result of a revaluation, the increase should be recognised in other comprehensive
income and accumulated in equity under the heading of revaluation surplus. However, the
increase should be recognised in profit or loss to the extent that it reverses a revaluation
decrease of the same asset previously recognised in profit or loss.
14. Useful Life
An entity shall assess whether the useful life of an intangible asset is:
 Finite
OR
 Indefinite
15. Intangible Assets with Finite Useful Lives
Amortisation
 The depreciable amount of an intangible asset with a finite useful life shall be allocated
on a systematic basis over its useful life.
 Amortisation shall begin when the asset is available for use, i.e. when it is in the location
and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by
management.
Residual Value: The residual value of an intangible as set with a finite useful life shall be
assumed to be zero unless:
Review of Amortisation Period and Amortisation Method
 The amortisation period and the amortisation method for an intangible asset with a finite
useful life shall be reviewed at least at each financial year-end.
16. Intangible Assets with Indefinite Useful Lives
An intangible asset with an indefinite useful life shall not be amortised.
In accordance with Ind AS 36, an entity is required to test an intangible asset with an
indefinite useful life for impairment by comparing its recoverable amount with its carrying amount:
Annually AND
Whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired
17. Retirements and Disposals
Intangible asset shall be derecognised:
On Disposal OR
When no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal
472 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20

Questions from Study Material

S-1: Identifiability
Sun Ltd has an expertise in consulting business. In past years, company has gained a market
share for its services of 30 per cent and considers recognising it as an intangible asset. Is the
action by company is justified?
(Study Material)
Answer: Market share does not meet the definition of intangible assets as is not identifiable i.e. It
is neither separable and nor arised from contractual or legal rights.

S-2: Control
Company XYZ ltd has provided training to its staff on various new topics like GST, Ind AS etc to
ensure the compliance as per the required law. Can the company recognise such cost of staff
training as intangible asset?
(Study Material)
Answer: It is clear that the company will obtain the economic benefits from the work performed
by the staff as it increases their efficiency. But it does not have control over them because staff
could choose to resign the company at any time.
Hence the company lacks the ability to restrict the access of others to those benefits. Therefore,
the staff training cost does not meet the definition of an intangible asset.

S-3: Identifiability of Intangible assets

Pluto Ltd. intends to open a new retail store in a new location in the next few weeks. Pluto Ltd has
spent a substantial sum on a series of television advertisements to promote this new store. The
Company has paid an amount of ` 800,000 for advertisements before 31 March 20X1. ` 700,000
of this sum relates to advertisements shown before 31 March 20X1 and ` 100,000 to
advertisements shown in April 20X1. Since 31 March 20X1, The Company has paid for further
advertisements costing ` 400,000.
Pluto Ltd is of view that such costs can be carried forward as intangible assets. Since market
research indicates that this new store is likely to be highly successful. Please explain and justify
the treatment of the above costs in the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 20X1.
(Study Material)
Answer: Under Ind AS 38 - Intangible Assets - intangible assets can only be recognised if they
are identifiable and have a cost which can be reliably measured.
These criteria are very difficult to satisfy for internally developed intangibles.
For these reasons, Ind AS 38 specifically prohibits recognising advertising expenditure as an
intangible asset. The issue of how successful the store is likely to be does not affect this
prohibition. Therefore such costs should be recognised as expenses.
However, the costs would be recognised on an accruals basis. Therefore, of the advertisements
paid for before 31 March 20X1, ` 700,000 would be recognised as an expense and ` 100,000 as
a pre-payment in the year ended 31 March 20X1. The ` 400,000 cost of advertisements paid for
since 31 March 20X1 would be charged as expenses in the year ended 31 March 20X2.
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 473

S-4: Mercury Ltd is preparing its accounts for the year ended 31 March 20X2 and is unsure
about how to treat the following items.
1. The company completed a grand marketing and advertising campaign costing ` 4.8 Lakh.
The finance director had authorised this campaign on the basis that it would create ` 8
lakh of additional profits over the next three years.
2. A new product was developed during the year. The expenditure totalled ` 3 lakh of which
` 1.5 lakh was incurred prior to 30 September 20X1, the date on which it became clear
that the product was technically viable. The new product will be launched in the next four
months and its recoverable amount is estimated at ` 1.4 lakh.
3. Staff participated in a training programme which cost the company ` 5 lakh. The training
organisation had made a presentation to the directors of the company outlining that
incremental profits to the business over the next twelve months would be ` 7 lakh.
What amounts should appear as intangible assets in accordance with Ind AS 38 in Mercury's
balance sheet as on 31 March 20X2?
(Study Material)
Answer: The treatment in Mercury's financials as at 31 March 20X2 will be as follows:
1. Marketing and advertising campaign: no intangible asset will be recognised, because it is
not possible to identify future economic benefits that are attributable only due to this
campaign. All of the expenditure should be expensed in the statement of profit and loss.
2. New product: development expenditure appearing in the balance sheet will be valued at
`1.5 lakh. The expenditure prior to the date on which the product becomes technically
feasible is recognised in the statement of profit and loss.
3. Training programme: no asset will be recognised, because there is no control of the
company over the staff and when staff leaves the benefits of the training, whatever they
may be, also departs.
S-5: Separate Acquisition
Venus India Private Ltd acquired a software for its internal use costing ` 10,00,000. The amount
payable for the software was ` 600,000 immediately and ` 400,000 in one year time. The other
expenditure incurred were:—
Purchase tax: ` 1,00,000
Entry Tax: 10% (recoverable later from tax department) Legal fees: ` 87,000
Consultancy fees for implementation : ` 1,20,000 cost of capital of the company is 10%.
Calculate the cost of the software on initial recognition using the principles of Ind AS 38 Intangible
Assets.
(Study Material)
Answer:
Particulars Amount
Cash paid 600,000
Deferred consideration (` 400,000/1.1) 3,63,636
Purchase Tax 1,00,000
Entry tax (not to be considered as it is a refundable tax) —
Legal fees 87,000
Consultancy fees for implementation 1,20,000
Total Cost to be capitalized 12,70,636
474 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20

S-6: Business Combination

On 31st March 20X1, Earth India Ltd paid ` 50,00,000 for a 100% interest in Sun India Ltd. At
that date Sun Ltd's net assets had a fair value of ` 30,00,000. In addition Sun Ltd also held the
following rights:
Trade Mark named "GRAND" - valued at ` 180,000 using a discounted cash flow technique.
Sole distribution rights to an electronic product. Future cash flows from which are estimated to be
` 150,000 per annum for the next 6 years.
10% is considered an appropriate discount rate.
The 6 year, 10% annuity factor is 4.36.
Calculate goodwill and other Intangible assets arising on acquisition.
(Study Material)
Answer:
Particulars Amount Amount
Purchase Consideration (A) 50,00,000
Net Asset acquired 30,00,000
Trade Mark 1,80,000
Distribution Rights (1,50,000 x 4.36) 6,54,000
Total (B) 38,34,000
Goodwill on Acquisition 11,66,000

S-7: Exchange of Asset

Sun Ltd acquired a software from Earth Ltd. in exchange for a telecommunication license. The
telecommunication license is carried at ` 5,00,000 in the books of Sun Ltd. The Software is
carried at ` 10,000 in the books of the Earth Ltd which is not the fair value.
Advise journal entries in the following situations in the books of Sun Ltd and Earth Ltd:-
(1) Fair value of software is ` 5,20,000 and fair value of telecommunication license is
`5,00,000.
(2) Fair Value of Software is not measureable. However similar Telecommunication license
is transacted by another company at ` 4,90,000.
(3) Neither Fair Value of Software nor Telecommunication license could be reliably
measured.
(Study Material)
Answer:
INR in '000
Situation Sun Ltd. Earth Ltd.
1 Dr. Software 520 Dr. Telecommunication
Cr. Telecommunication license 500 license 500
Cr. Profit on Exchange 20 Cr. Software 10
Cr. Profit on Exchange 490
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 475

Situation Sun Ltd. Earth Ltd.

2 Dr. Software 490 Dr. Telecommunication
Dr. Loss on Exchange 10 license 490
Cr.Telecommunication license 500 Cr. Software 10
Note: The company may first recognise Cr. Profit on Exchange 480
Impairment loss and then pass an entry.
The effect is the same as impairment loss
will also be charged to Income
Statement.
3 Dr. Software 500 Dr. Telecommunication
Cr. Telecommunication license 500 license 10
Cr. Software 10

S-8: Venus Ltd. is preparing its accounts for the year ended 31st March 20X2 and is unsure
how to treat the following items.
1. Company has completed a big marketing and advertising campaign costing ` 2,40,000.
The finance director had authorised this campaign on the basis that it would create `
5,00,000 of additional profits over the next three years.
2. A new product was developed during the year. The expenditure totalled ` 1,50,000 of
which ` 1,00,000 was incurred prior to 30th September 20X1, the date on which it
became clear that the product was technically viable. The new product will be launched in
the next four months and its recoverable amount is estimated at ` 70,000.
3. Staff participated in a training programme which cost the company ` 300,000. The
training organisation had made a presentation to the directors of Baxter outlining that
incremental profits to the business over the next twelve months would be ` 500,000.
What amounts should appear as assets in Venus Ltd. Balance sheet as at 31st March 20X2?
(Study Material)
Answer: The treatment in Venus Ltd's balance sheet as at 31st March 20X2 will be as follows:
1. Marketing and advertising campaign: no asset will be recognised, because it is not
possible to identify future economic benefits that are attributable only to this campaign.
All of the expenditure should be expensed in the statement of profit and loss account.
2. New product: development expenditure appearing in the statement of financial position
will be valued at ` 50,000. The expenditure prior to the date on which the product
becomes technically feasible is recognised in the statement of profit and loss account.
3. Training programme: no intangible asset will be recognised, because staff are not under
the control of Venus Ltd. and when staff leave the benefits of the training, whatever they
may be, also leave.
S-9: Development Phase
Expenditure on a new production process in 20X1-20X2:
INR
1st April to 31st December 2,700
1st January to 31st March 900
————
3,600
————
476 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20
The production process met the intangible asset recognition criteria for development on 1st
January 20X2. The amount estimated to be recoverable from the process is ` 1,000.
What is the carrying amount of the intangible asset at 31st March 20X2 and the charge to profit or
loss for 20X1-20X2?
Expenditure incurred in FY 20X2-20X3 is ` 6,000.
At 31st March 20X3, the amount estimated to be recoverable from the process (including future
cash outflows to complete the process before it is available for use) is ` 5,000.
What is the carrying amount of the intangible asset at 31st March 20X3 and the charge to profit or
loss for 20X2-X3?
(Study Material)
Answer:
Expenditure to be transfer to profit or loss in 20X1-20X2
INR
Total Expenditure 3,600
Less. Expenditure during Development phase 900
Expenditure to be transfer to profit or loss 2,700
(1) Carrying Amount of Intangible Asset on 31st March 20X2
Expenditure during Development Phase will be capitalised ` 900
(Recoverable amount is higher being ` 1,000, hence no impairment)
(2) Expenditure to be charged to profit or loss in 20X2-20X3
INR
Opening balance of Intangible Asset 900
Add. Further expenditure during development phase 6,000
Expenditure for development phase 6,900
Recoverable Amount 5,000
Amount charged to profit or loss (Impairment Loss) 1,900
(3) Carrying Amount of Intangible Asset on 31st March 20X3
Value of Intangible Asset will be recoverable amount i.e. ` 5,000
S-10: Revaluation Model
1. Saturn Ltd. acquired an intangible asset on 31st March 20X1 for ` 1,00,000. The asset
was revalued at ` 1,20,000 on 31st March 20X2and ` 85,000 on 31st March 20X3.
2. Jupiter Ltd. acquired an intangible asset on 31st March 20X1 for ` 1,00,000. The asset
was revalued at ` 85,000 on 31st March 20X2 and at ` 1,05,000 on 31st March 20X3.
Assuming that the year-end for both companies is 31st March, and that they both use the
revaluation model, show how each of these transactions should be dealt with in the financial
statements.
(Study Material)
Answer:
Saturn Ltd.
` 20,000 revaluation increase on 31st March 20X2 should be credited to the revaluation reserve
and recognised in other comprehensive income. ` 20,000 of the revaluation decrease on 31st
March 20X3 should be debited to revaluation reserve and remaining ` 15,000 should be
recognised as an expense.
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 477
Jupiter Ltd.
` 15,000 revaluation decrease on 31st March 20X2 should be recognised as an expense in the
Statement of Profit and loss. ` 15,000 out of the ` 20,000 increase on 31st March 20X3 should be
recognised as income. The remaining ` 5,000 should be credited to revaluation reserve and
recognised in other comprehensive income.
S-11: X Limited engaged in the business of manufacturing fertilisers entered into a technical
collaboration agreement with a foreign company Y Limited. As a result, Y Limited would provide
the technical know-how enabling X Limited to manufacture fertiliser in a more efficient way. X
Limited paid ` 10,00,00,000 for the use of know-how for a period of 5 years. X Limited estimates
the production of fertiliser as follows:
Year (in metric tons)
1 50,000
2 70,000
3 1,00,000
4 1,20,000
5 1,10,000
At the end of the 1st year, it achieved its targeted production. At the end of 2nd year, 65,000
metric tons of fertiliser was being manufactured, and X Limited considered to revise the estimates
for the next 3 years. The revised figures are 85,000, 1,05,000 and 1,15,000 metric tons for year 3,
4 & 5 respectively.
How will X Limited amorise the technical know-how fees as per Ind AS 38?
(Study Material)
Answer: Based on the above data, it may be suitable for X Ltd. to use unit of production method
for amortisation of technical know-how.
The total estimated unit to be produced 4,50,00 MT. The technical know-how will be amortised on
the basis of the ratio of yearly production to total production.
The first year charge should be a proportion of 50,000/4,50,000 on ` 10,00,00,000
= ` 1,11,11,111.
At the end of 2nd year, as per revised estimate the total number of units to be produced are
4,20,000 MT.
The amortisation for second year will be 65,000/4,20,000, and so on for remaining years unless
the estimates are again revised.
The difference in amortisation for first year due to revision in estimates would also be provided in
2nd year. The actual amortisation provided for the 1st year is ` 1,11,11,111. The amortisation that
would have provided on revised estimates is 50,000/4,20,000 on ` 10,00,00,000 = ` 1,19,04,762.
So, difference of ` 7,93,651 (` 1,19,04,762 - ` 1,11,11,111) would also be provided in 2nd year.
S-12: X Ltd. purchased a patent right on April 1, 20X1, for ` 3,00,000; which has a legal life of
15 years. However, due to the competitive nature of the product, the management estimates a
useful life of only 5 years. Straight-line amortisation is determined by the management to be the
best method. As at April 1, 20X2, management is uncertain that the process can actually be
made economically feasible, and decides to write down the patent to an estimated market value
of ` 1,50,000 and decides to amortise over 2 years. As at April 1, 20X3, having perfected the
related production process, the asset is now appraised at a value of ` 3,00,000. Furthermore, the
estimated useful life is now believed to be 4 more years. Determine the value of intangible asset
at the end of each financial year?
(Study Material)
478 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20
Answer:
Value as on March 31, 20X2
Original cost ` 3,00,000
Less: amortisation (` 60,000)
Net Value ` 2,40,000
Value as on March 31, 20X1
On April 1, 20X2, the impairment is recorded by writing down the asset to the estimated value of
` 1,50,000, which necessitates a ` 90,000 charge to profit & loss (carrying value, ` 2,40,000 less
fair value ` 1,50,000).
Amortisation provided for the financial year 20X2-20X3 is ` 75,000 (` 1,50,000/2) Net value is =
` 1,50,000 - ` 75,000 = ` 75,000.
Value as on March 31, 20X4
As of April 1, 20X3, the carrying value of the patent is ` 75,000. Revalued amount of patent is
` 3,00,000.
Out of total revaluation gain of ` 2,25,000, ` 90,000 will be charged to profit & loss and balance
amount of ` 1,35,000 - (` 2,25,000 - ` 90,000) will be credited to revaluation reserve.
S-13: X Pharmaceutical Ltd. seeks your opinion in respect of following accounting transactions:
1. Acquired a 4 year license to manufacture a specialised drug at a cost of ` 1,00,00,000 at
the start of the year. Production commenced immediately.
2. Also purchased another company at the start of year. As part of that acquisition the
company acquired a brand with a FV of ` 3,00,00,000 based on sales revenue. The life of
the brand is estimated at 15 years.
3. Spent ` 1,00,00,000 on an advertising campaign during the first six months. Subsequent
sales have shown a significant improvement and it is expected this will continue for 3
years.
4. It has commenced developing a new drug 'Drug-A'. The project cost would be
`10,00,00,000. Clinical trial proved successful and such drug is expected to generate
revenue over the next 5 years.
Cost incurred (accumulated) till March 31, 20X1 is ` 5,00,00,000. Balance cost incurred
during the financial year 20X1-20X2 is ` 5,00,00,000.
5. It has also commenced developing another drug 'Drug B'. It has incurred ` 50,00,000
towards research expenses till March 31, 20X2. The technological feasibility has not yet
been established.
How the above transactions will be accounted for in the books of account of X Pharmaceutical
Ltd?
(Study Material)
Answer:
X Pharmaceutical Ltd. is advised as under:
1. It should recognise the drug license as an intangible asset, because it is a separate
external purchase, separately identifiable asset and considered successful in respect of
feasibility and probable future cash inflows.
The drug license should be recorded at ` 1,00,00,000.
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 479
2. It should recognise the brand as an intangible asset because it is purchased as part of
acquisition and it is separately identifiable. The brand should be amortised over a period
of 15 years.
The brand will be recorded at ` 3,00,00,000.
3. The advertisement expenses of ` 1,00,00,000 should be expensed off.
4. The development cost incurred during the financial year 20X1-20X2 should be
capitalised. Cost of intangible asset (Drug A) as on March 31, 20X2
Opening cost ` 5,00,00,000
Development cost ` 5,00,00,000
Total cost ` 10,00,00,000
5. Research expenses of ` 50,00,000 incurred for developing 'Drug B' should be expensed
off since technological feasibility has not yet established.
S-14: X Ltd. is engaged in the business of publishing Journals. They acquired 50% stake in Y
Ltd., a company in the same industry. X Ltd. paid purchase consideration of ` 10,00,00,000 and
fair value of net asset acquired is ` 8,50,00,000. The above purchase consideration includes:
(a) ` 30,00,000 for obtaining the skilled staff of Y Ltd.
(b) ` 50,00,000 by way of payment towards 'Non-compete Fee' so as to restrict Y Ltd. to
compete in the same line of business for next 5 years.
How should the above transactions be accounted for by X Ltd?
(Study Material)
Answer: X Ltd. should recognise an intangible asset in respect of the consideration paid towards
'Non-Compete Fee'.
However, amount paid for obtaining skilled staff amounting to ` 30,00,000 does not meet the
definition of intangible asset since X Ltd. has not established any right over the resource and
should be expensed. The entity has insufficient control over the expected future economic
benefits arising from a team of skilled staff.
Therefore, ` 50,00,000 will be separately recognised as an intangible asset, whereas amount
paid for obtaining skilled staff does not meet the recognition criteria. However, since it is acquired
in a business combination, it forms part of the goodwill recognised at the acquisition date.
The value of goodwill is ` 1,00,00,000 1,50,00,000 - ` 50,00,000).
S-15: X Ltd. purchased a franchise from a restaurant chain at a cost of ` 1,00,00,000 and the
franchise has 10 years life. In addition, the franchise agreement mentions that the franchisee
would also pay the franchisor royalty as a percentage of sales made. Can the franchise rights be
treated as an intangible asset under Ind AS 38?
(Study Material)
Answer: The franchise rights meets the identification criterion in the definition of an intangible
asset since it arises from the contractual rights. It is acquired separately and its cost can be
measured reliably. In addition X Ltd. will have future economic benefits and control over them
from the franchise rights.
X Ltd. should recognise the franchise right as intangible asset and amortise it over 10 years.
Royalty as a percentage of sales paid to the franchisor would be a charge to the profit and loss in
the books of the X Ltd.
480 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20

S-16: An entity regularly places advertisements in newspapers advertising its products and
includes a reply slip that informs individuals replying to the advertisement that the entity may pass
on the individual's details to other sellers of similar products, unless the individual ticks a box in
the advertisement.
Over a period of time the entity has assembled a list of customers' names and addresses. The list
is provided to other entities for a fee. The entity would like to recognise an asset in respect of the
expected future economic benefits to be derived from the list. Can the customer list be treated as
an intangible asset under Ind AS 38?
(Study Material)
Answer: In this situation, the entity has no legal rights to the customer relationship, but exchange
transactions have taken place that evidence separability of the asset and the control that the
entity is able to exercise over the asset. Therefore, the list is an intangible asset. However, the
entity may not recognise the asset because the cost of generating the customer list internally
cannot be distinguished from the cost of developing the business as a whole.

S-17: A software company X Ltd. is developing new software for the telecom industry. It
employs 100 employs engineers trained in that particular discipline who are engaged in the
development of the software. X Ltd. feels that it has an excellent HR policy and does not expect
any of its employees to leave in the near future. It wants to recognise these set of engineers as a
human resources asset in the form of an intangible asset. What would be your advice to X Ltd?
(Study Material)
Answer: Although, without doubt the skill sets of the employees make them extremely valuable to
the company, however it does not have control over them. Merely having good HR policies would
not make them eligible to be recognised as an intangible asset.

S-18: X Ltd. has acquired a telecom license from Government to operate mobile telephony in
two states of India. Can the cost of acquisition be capitalised as an intangible asset under Ind AS
38?
(Study Material)
Answer: Cost of acquisition of the telecom license can be capitalised as an intangible asset
under the head Licenses, as it will lead to future economic benefits for X Ltd.

S-19: X Ltd. purchased a standardised finance software at a list price of ` 30,00,000 and paid
`50,000 towards purchase tax which is non refundable. In addition to this, the entity was granted
a trade discount of 5% on the initial list price. X Ltd. incurred cost of ` 7,00,000 towards
customisation of the software for its intended use. X Ltd. purchased a 5 year maintenance
contract with the vendor company of ` 2,00,000. At what cost the intangible asset will be
recognised?
(Study Material)
Answer: In accordance with Ind AS 38, the cost of a separately acquired intangible asset is its
purchases price and non refundable purchase taxes, after deducting trade discounts and rebates
and any directly attributable cost of preparing the asset for its intended use.
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 481
Therefore, the initial cost of the asset should be:
Amount (`)
List price 30,00,000
Less: trade discount (5%) (1,50,000)
28,50,000
Non refundable purchase tax 50,000
Customisation cost 7,00,000
Total cost 36,00,000
The maintenance contract of ` 2,00,000 is an expense and therefore should be taken as a
prepaid expense and charged to profit and loss over a period of 5 years.
S-20: X Limited in a business combination, purchased the net assets of Y Limited for `4,00,000
on March 31, 20X1. The assets and liabilities position of Y Limited just before the acquisition is as
follows:
Assets Cost (in `)
Property, Plant & Equipment 1,00,000
Intangible asset 1 20,000
Intangible asset 2 50,000
Cash & Bank 1,30,000
Liabilities
Trade payable 50,000
The fair market value of the PPE, intangible asset 1 and intangible asset 2 is available and they
are ` 1,50,000, ` 30,000 and ` 70,000 respectively.
How would X Limited account for the net assets acquired from Y Limited?
(Study Material)
Answer: X Limited will account for the assets acquired from Y Limited in following manner:
Assets Amount (`)
Property, plant and equipment 1,50,000
Goodwill 70,000
Intangible asset 1 30,000
Intangible asset 2 70,000
Cash & Bank 1,30,000
Liabilities
Trade payable 50,000
Note 1- Goodwill is the difference between fair value of net assets acquired and purchase
consideration paid when is calculated as follow:
Goodwill = ` 4,00,000 - ` (1,50,000 + 70,000 + 30,000 + 1,30,000 - 50,000)= ` 70,000.
482 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20

S-21: X Ltd. acquired Y Ltd. on April 30, 20X1. The purchase consideration is `50,00,000. The
fair value of the tangible assets is ` 45,00,000. The company estimates the fair value of "in-
process research projects" at ` 10,00,000. No other Intangible asset is acquired by X Ltd. in the
transaction. Further, cost incurred by X Ltd. in relation to that research project is as follows:
(a) ` 5,00,000 - as research expenses
(b) ` 2,00,000 - to establish technological feasibility
(c) ` 7,00,000 - for further development cost after technological feasibility is established.
At what amount the intangible asset should be measured under Ind AS 38?
(Study Material)
Answer: X Ltd. should initially recognise the acquired "in house research project'' at its fair value
i.e., ` 10,00,000. Research cost of ` 5,00,000 and cost of ` 2,00,000 for establishing technical
feasibility should be charged to profit & loss. Costs incurred from the point of technological
feasibility/asset recognition criteria until the time when development costs are incurred are
capitalised.
So the intangible asset should be recognised at ` 17,00,000 10,00,000 + ` 7,00,000).

S-22: X Ltd. acquired a patent right of manufacturing drug from Y Ltd. In exchange X Ltd. gives
its intellectual property right to Y Ltd. Current market value of the patent and intellectual property
rights are ` 20,00,000 and ` 18,00,000 respectively. At what value patent right should be initially
recognised in the books of X Ltd. in following two situations?
(a) X Ltd. did not pay any cash to Y Ltd.
(b) X Ltd. pays ` 2,00,000 to Y Ltd.
(Study Material)
Answer: If an entity is able to determine reliably the fair value of either the asset received or the
asset given up, then the fair value of the asset given up is used to measure cost unless the fair
value of the asset received is more clearly evident.
The transaction at the fair value of the asset received adjusted for any cash received or paid.
Therefore in case (a) patent is measured at ` 18,00,000, in case (b) it is measured at ` 20,00,000
(18,00,000 + 2,00,000).

S-23: X Garments Ltd. spent ` 1,00,00,000 towards promotions for a fashion show by way of
various on-road shows, contests etc.
After that event, it realised that the brand name of the entity got popular and resultantly,
subsequent sales have shown a significant improvement. It is further expected that this hike will
have an effect over the next 2-3 years.
How the entity should account for the above cost incurred on promoting such show?
(Study Material)
Answer: Expenditure of ` 1,00,00,000 though increased future economic benefits, but it does not
result in creation of an intangible asset.
Such promotional cost should be expensed off.
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 483

S-24: An entity is developing a new production process. During 20X1-20X2, expenditure

incurred was ` 1,000, of which ` 900 was incurred before March 1, 20X2 and ` 100 was incurred
between March 1, 20X2 and March 31, 20X2. The entity is able to demonstrate that at March 1,
20X2, the production process met the criteria for recognition as an intangible asset. The
recoverable amount of the know-how embodied in the process (including future cash outflows to
complete the process before it is available for use) is estimated to be ` 500.
During 20X2-20X3, expenditure incurred is ` 2,000. At the end of 20X3, the recoverable amount
of the know-how embodied in the process (including future cash outflows to complete I the
process before it is available for use) is estimated to be ` 1,900.
(Study Material)
Answer: At the end of the financial year 20X2, the production process is recognised as an
intangible asset at a cost of ` 100 (expenditure incurred since the date when the recognition
criteria were met, i.e., March 1, 20X2). ` 900 expenditure incurred before March 1, 20X2 is
recognised as an expense because the recognition criteria were not met until March 1, 20X2.
This expenditure does not form part of the cost of the production process recognised in the
balance sheet.
At the end of 20X3, the cost of the production process is ` 2,100 100 expenditure recognised at
the end of 20X2 plus ` 2,000 expenditure recognised in 20X3). The entity recognises an
impairment loss of ` 200 to adjust the carrying amount of the process before impairment loss
2,100) to its recoverable amount 1,900). This impairment loss will be reversed in a subsequent
period if the requirements for the reversal of an impairment loss in Ind AS 36 are met.

S-25: X Ltd. is engaged is developing computer software. The expenditures incurred by X Ltd. in
pursuance of its development of software is given below:
(a) Paid ` 2,00,000 towards salaries of the program designers.
(b) Incurred ` 5,00,000 towards other cost of completion of program design.
(c) Incurred ` 2,00,000 towards cost of coding and establishing technical feasibility.
(d) Paid ` 7,00,000 for other direct cost after establishment of technical feasibility.
(e) Incurred ` 2,00,000 towards other testing costs.
(f) Cost of producing product masters for training material is ` 3,00,000.
(g) A focus group of other software developers was invited to a conference for the
introduction of this new software. Cost of the conference aggregated to ` 70,000.
(h) On March 15, 20X0, the development phase was completed and a cash flow budget was
prepared.
Net profit for the year was estimated to be equal ` 40,00,000. How X Ltd. should account for the
above mentioned cost?
(Study Material)
Answer: Costs incurred in creating computer software, should be charged to research &
development expenses when incurred until technical feasibility/asset recognition criteria have
been established for the product. Here, technical feasibility is established after completion of
detailed program design.
In this case, ` 9,00,000 (salary cost of ` 2,00,000, program design cost of ` 5,00,000 and coding
and technical feasibility cost of ` 2,00,000) would be recorded as expense.
484 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20
Cost incurred from the point of technical feasibility are capitalised as software costs. But the
conference cost of ` 70,000 would be expensed off.
In this situation, direct cost after establishment of technical feasibility of ` 7,00,000, testing cost of
` 2,00,000 and cost of producing product masters for training material of ` 3,00,000 will be
capitalised.
The cost of software capitalised is = ` (7,00,000 + 2,00,000 + 3,00,000) = ` 12,00,000.

S-26: X Ltd. has started developing a new production process in financial year 20X1-20X2.
Total expenditure incurred till September 30, 20X3, was ` 1,00,00,000 . The expenditure on the
development of the production process meets the recognition criteria on July 1, 20X1. The
records of X Ltd. show that, out of total ` 1,00,00,000, ` 70,00,000 were incurred during July to
September 20X1. X Ltd. publishes its financial results quarterly. How X Ltd. should account for
the development expenditure?
(Study Material)
Answer: X Ltd. should recognise the intangible asset at ` 70,00,000 and ` 30,00,000 which was
already recognised as an expenses in first quarter should not be capitalised.

S-27: X Ltd. decides to revalue its intangible assets on April 1, 20X1. On the date of revaluation,
the intangible assets stand at a cost of ` 1,00,00,000 and accumulated amortisation is `
40,00,000. The intangible assets are revalued at ` 1,50,00,000. How should X Ltd. account for
the revalued intangible assets in its books of account?
(Study Material)
Answer: The intangible assets are revalued to ` 1,50,00,000 on an amortised replacement cost
basis, which is a 150% increase from its original cost. Thereby applying the existing ratio of
accumulated depreciation to the cost the revalued gross amount would be ` 2,50,00,000 gross
and ` 1,00,00,000 on amortisation.

Questions from Diploma IFRS

D-1: Ten years ago, Innovate developed a new game called 'Our Sports'. This game sold over
10 million copies around the world and was extremely profitable. Due to its popularity, Innovate
release a new game in the Our Sports series every year. The games continue to be bestsellers.
The directors have produced cash flow projections for the Our Sports series over the next five
years. Based on these projections, they have prudently valued the Our Sports brand at `20
million and wish to recognise this in the Balance Sheet as at 30 September 20X3.
On 30 September 20X3, Innovate also paid `1 million for the rights to the 'Pets & Me' videogame
series after the original developer went into administration.
Required:
Discuss the accounting treatment of the above in the financial statements of Innovate for the year
ended 30 September 20X3.
(Dip. IFRS – UK)
Answer: According to IAS 38, an intangible asset can be recognised if:
• it is probable that expected future economic benefits attributable to the asset will flow to the
entity
• the cost of the asset can be measured reliably.
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 485
Cash flow projections suggest that the Our Sports brand will lead to future economic benefits.
However, the asset has been internally generated and therefore the cost of the asset cannot be
measured reliably. This means that the Our Sports brand cannot be recognised in the financial
statements.
The Pets & Me brand has been purchased for `1 million. Therefore, its cost can be measured
reliably. An intangible asset should be recognised in respect of the Pets & Me brand at its cost of
`1 million.
In subsequent periods, the Pets & Me brand will be amortised over its expected useful economic
life.

Questions from ICAI Bulletins

B-1: A Ltd. is a first-time adopter of Ind AS from financial year 2016-17. It had entered into a
service concession arrangement with government in respect of toll roads in the year 2014.
Paragraph 7AA of Ind AS 38, Intangible Assets read with paragraph D22 of Ind AS 101, First-time
Adoption of Indian Accounting Standards permits revenue based amortisation for the intangible
assets arising from service concession arrangements in respect of toll roads recognised in the
financial statements for the period ending immediately before the beginning of the first Ind AS
reporting period. As on 1st April 2016, the construction of toll road is in progress. Can A Ltd. avail
the above exemption in respect of toll roads under construction/ development as on 1st April,
2016.
(ICAI Bulletin on Ind AS No. 7)
Answer: Paragraph D22 of Ind AS 101, inter alia, states as follows:
“D22 A first-time adopter may apply the following provisions while applying the Appendix
A to Ind AS 11:
(i) Subject to paragraph (ii), changes in accounting policies are accounted for in accordance
with Ind AS 8, i.e. retrospectively, except for the policy adopted for amortization of
intangible assets arising from service concession arrangements related to toll roads
recognised in the financial statements for the period ending immediately before the
beginning of the first Ind AS financial reporting period as per the previous GAAP..............”
Further, paragraph 7AA of Ind AS 38, Intangible Assets, states as follows:
“7AA The amortisation method specified in this Standard does not apply to an entity that
opts to amortise the intangible assets arising from service concession arrangements in
respect of toll roads recognised in the financial statements for the period ending immediately
before the beginning of the first Ind AS reporting period as per the exception given in
paragraph D22 of Appendix D to Ind AS 101.”
In accordance with the above, it may be noted that the exemption can be availed in respect of
intangible assets arising from service concession arrangements in respect of toll roads
recognised in the financial statements before the beginning of first Ind AS reporting period. In the
given case, A Ltd. cannot avail the exemption because the intangible asset is in progress and the
same have has not been recognised before 1st April, 2016 and amortisation has not begun.
486 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20

B-2: Paragraph 7AA of Ind 38, Intangible Assets read with paragraph D22 of Ind AS 101, First-
time Adoption of Indian Accounting Standards permits revenue based amortisation for the
intangible assets arising from service concession arrangements in respect of toll roads
recognised in the financial statements for the period ending immediately before the beginning of
the first Ind AS reporting period. However, Schedule II to the Companies Act, 2013, permits
revenue based amortisation for such intangible asset without any reference to any financial year.
Whether a company is permitted to follow revenue based amortisation even for such new
arrangements entered into after Ind AS become applicable?
(ICAI Bulletin on Ind AS No. 3)
Answer: Paragraph D22 of Ind AS 101, inter alia, states as follows:
“D22 A first-time adopter may apply the following provisions while applying the Appendix
A to Ind AS 11:
(i) Subject to paragraph (ii), changes in accounting policies are accounted for in
accordance with Ind AS 8, i.e. retrospectively, except for the policy adopted for
amortization of intangible assets arising from service concession arrangements
related to toll roads recognised in the financial statements for the period ending
immediately before the beginning of the first Ind AS financial reporting period as per
the previous GAAP................”
Paragraph D7AA of Ind AS 38, Intangible Assets, states as follows:
“7AA The amortisation method specified in this Standard does not apply to an entity that
opts to amortise the intangible assets arising from service concession arrangements in
respect of toll roads recognised in the financial statements for the period ending immediately
before the beginning of the first Ind AS reporting period as per the exception given in
paragraph D22 of Appendix D to Ind AS 101.”
Schedule II to the Companies Act, 2013, provides that for intangible assets, the provisions of
the accounting standards applicable for the time being in force shall apply, except in case of
intangible assets (Toll Roads) created under ‘Build, Operate and Transfer’, ‘Build, Own, Operate
and Transfer’ or any other form of public private partnership route in case of road projects.
Amortisation in such cases may be done on the basis of revenue as specified Schedule II.
Paragraph 7AA of Ind 38 read with paragraph D22 of Ind AS 101, specifically provides
exemption for service concession arrangements in respect of toll roads recognised in the financial
statements for the period ending immediately before the beginning of the first Ind AS reporting
period as per the previous GAAP, i.e., as per Schedule II to the Companies Act, 2013,
considering the requirements contained in that Schedule. Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014
prescribes to follow Ind AS in preparation of financial statements.
Hence, in harmonisation of Rules and Ind AS 38 read with Ind AS 101, principles of Ind AS
38 should be followed for all service concession arrangements including roll roads once Ind AS is
applicable to an entity.
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 487

AS Questions
A-1: The company had spent `45 lakhs for publicity and research expenses on one of its new
consumer product, which was marketed in the accounting year 20X1-20X2, but proved to be a
failure.
Required:
Analyse, how you will deal with this amount in the accounts of the company for the year ended
31stMarch, 20X2 with reference to Accounting Standards:
(Study Material)
Answer: In the given case, the company spent `45 lakhs for publicity and research of a new
product which was marketed but proved to be a failure. It is clear that in future there will be no
related further revenue/benefit because of the failure of the product. Thus according to paras 41
to 43 of AS 26 ‘Intangible Assets’, the company should charge the total amount of `45 lakhs as
an expense in the profit and loss account.

A-2: A company with a turnover of `250 crores and an annual advertising budget of `2 crores
had taken up the marketing of a new product. It was estimated that the company would have a
turnover of `25 crores from the new product. The company had debited to its Profit and Loss
account the total expenditure of `2 crore incurred on extensive special initial advertisement
campaign for the new product.
Required:
Evaluate the correctness of the procedure adopted by the company?
(Study Material)
Answer: According to paras 55 and 56 of AS 26 ‘Intangible Assets’, expenditure on an intangible
item should be recognised as an expense when it is incurred unless it forms part of the cost of an
intangible asset.
In the given case, advertisement expenditure of `2 crores had been taken up for the marketing of
a new product which may provide future economic benefits to an enterprise by having a turnover
of `25 crores. Here, no intangible asset or other asset is acquired or created that can be
recognised. Therefore, the accounting treatment by the company of debiting the entire advertising
expenditure of `2 crores to the Profit and Loss account of the year is correct.
488 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets Unit 20

Differences IAS/IFRS & Ind AS

Other Differences Ind AS 38
1. Intangible Assets acquired by way of Government Grant: With regard to the acquisition of
an intangible asset by way of a government grant, IAS 38, Intangible Assets, provides the
option to an entity to recognise both asset and grant initially at fair value or at a nominal
amount plus any expenditure that is directly attributable to preparing the asset for its
intended use. Ind AS 38 allows only fair value for recognising the intangible asset and
grant in accordance with Ind AS 20.

Differences AS & Ind AS

Ind AS 38 and AS 26
(i) Definition of Intangible Assets: The existing standard defines an intangible asset as an
identifiable non-monetary asset without physical substance held for use in the production
or supply of goods or services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes
whereas in Ind AS 38, the requirement for the asset to be held for use in the production
or supply of goods or services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes has
been removed from the definition of an intangible asset.
(ii) Revenue Based Amortisation Method: In Ind AS 38 there is a rebuttable presumption
that an amortisation method that is based on the revenue generated by an activity that
includes the use of an intangible asset is inappropriate. Ind AS 38 allows use of revenue
based method of amortisation of intangible asset, in a limited way. Existing AS 26 does
not specifically deal with revenue based amortisation method.
(iii) Payment Deferred beyond Normal Credit Terms: Under Ind AS 38, if payment for an
intangible asset is deferred beyond normal credit terms, the difference between this
amount and the total payments is recognised as interest expense over the period of
credit unless it is capitalised as per Ind AS 23. However, there is no such provision in the
existing standard.
(iv) Intangible Assets Acquired in Exchange: Ind AS 38 requires that if an intangible asset
is acquired in exchange of a non-monetary asset, it should be recognised at the fair value
of the asset given up unless (a) the exchange transaction lacks commercial substance or
(b) the fair value of neither the asset received nor the asset given up is reliably
measurable. However, the existing standard requires the principles of existing AS 10 to
be followed which require that when an asset is acquired in exchange for another asset,
its cost is usually determined by reference to the fair market value of the consideration
given. It may be appropriate to consider also the fair market value of the asset acquired if
this is more clearly evident. An alternative accounting treatment to record the asset
acquired at the net book value of the asset given up; in each case an adjustment is made
for any balancing receipt or payment of cash or other consideration also.
(v) Intangible Assets acquired Free of Charge or for a Nominal Consideration by way
of Government Grant: As per Ind AS 38, when intangible assets are acquired free of
charge or for nominal consideration by way of government grant, an entity should, in
accordance with Ind AS 20, record both the grant and the in tangible asset at fair value.
As per the existing standard, intangible assets acquired free of charge or for nominal
consideration by way of government grant is recognised at nominal value or at acquisition
cost, as appropriate plus any expenditure that is attributable to making the asset ready
for intended use.
Unit 20 Ind AS-38: Intangible Assets 489
(vi) Useful Life of an Intangible Asset: The existing standard is based on the assumption
that the useful life of an intangible asset is always finite, and includes a rebuttable
presumption that the useful life cannot exceed ten years from the date the asset is
available for use. That rebuttable presumption is not there in Ind AS 38.Ind AS 38
recognizes that the useful life of an intangible asset can even be indefinite subject to
fulfillment of certain conditions, in which case it should not be amortised but should be
tested for impairment.
(vii) Valuation Model as Accounting Policy: Ind AS 38 permits an entity to choose either
the cost model or the revaluation model as its accounting policy, whereas in the existing
standard, revaluation model is not permitted.
(viii) Change in Method of Amortization: As per the existing standard, change in the method
of amortisation is a change in accounting policy whereas as per Ind AS 38, this would be
a change in accounting estimate.
(ix) Annual Impairment Testing: The existing standard also requires annual impairment
testing of an intangible asset not yet available for use. There is no such requirement in
Ind AS 38.