Definitions of an intangible asset : in context with HGB, IFRS and US-GAAP

Abstract:     This Bachelor thesis deals with the definition of Intangible Assets in the context of financial reporting. The purpose is to integrate intangible assets into the balance sheet. After a thorough analysis of the ongoing research shows that there is general consensus concerning intellectual property, and general confusion concerning knowledge, information and organization capital. Some have what it takes to enter balance sheets, while others still lack a holistic concept that is generally accepted and fulfils the demand of accounting. Neither of them is reported according to the presently available and established knowledge. This thesis shows that a prerequisite for an improved reporting is the consequential extension of accounting principles for intangible assets. The fact that the term “intangible asset” became a gathering of all possible intangible phenomena demands counter-actions. One of its reasons is the demand for the measurement of relative performances of intangible assets. This thesis shows that reporting absolute figures for intangible assets does not stand in contrast with this, but can deliver the necessary data set for a holistic analysis that also deals with intangible assets.