IFRS is a completely stand-alone (self contained) and differs from full IFRSs in a
number of ways such as;
Is much smaller (230 pages against 2855 in full IFRSs)
Where IFRSs have options, include only simpler option
Recognition and measurement simplifications
Reduced and simplified disclosures
Simplified drafting
Benefits of Adopting IFRSs for SMEs
An IFRS for SMEs has clear benefits for investors, lenders and those seeking to raise
finance through the transparency afforded by a consistently applied global set of financial
reporting standards. It will provide a standard which is simple and well understood and this
will ease transition to full IFRS for growing entities once they become publicly accountable.
It will also provide an accounting framework in such countries for entities that are not of the
size nor have the resources to adopt full IFRS.
The Standard is predominantly welcome in some developing nations who also have
difficulty in developing and interpreting their accounting standards as it will ensure that these