by Stock Valuation refers to the process of determining the value of inventory held by a business at the end of an accounting period. Accurate stock valuation is crucial for financial reporting, profit calculation, and proper cost management. Inventory is classified as a current asset on the balance sheet, and its valuation directly affects both the cost of goods sold (COGS) and the net income of the business.
Objectives of Stock Valuation:
-
Accurate Profit Determination
Proper valuation of inventory ensures accurate determination of COGS and, consequently, the correct profit or loss for the period.
- True Financial Position
Inventory is a significant asset, and its correct valuation is essential for presenting a true and fair financial position of the company.
-
Efficient Cost Control
Stock valuation helps in monitoring and controlling production and operational costs by providing insights into material consumption and wastage.
- Compliance with Accounting Standards
Accurate stock valuation ensures adherence to accounting principles and standards, such as the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
Methods of Stock Valuation:
There are several methods for valuing stock, depending on the nature of the business and accounting policies adopted. The commonly used methods are:
1. First-In, First-Out (FIFO)
The FIFO method assumes that the oldest inventory items are sold first. Therefore, the ending inventory consists of the most recent purchases.
Advantages:
- Provides a realistic view of ending inventory value, as it is based on the most recent prices.
- Useful in periods of inflation, as the cost of goods sold is lower, resulting in higher profits.
Disadvantages:
- Higher profits may result in higher tax liability during inflationary periods.
Example:
| Date | Units Purchased | Cost per Unit (₹) | Total Cost (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | 100 | 10 | 1,000 |
| 5 Jan | 200 | 12 | 2,400 |
| Total Units Sold = 150 |
COGS for 150 units:
- 100 units @ ₹10 = ₹1,000
- 50 units @ ₹12 = ₹600
Total COGS = ₹1,600
2. Last-In, First-Out (LIFO)
LIFO method assumes that the most recent inventory items are sold first, and the ending inventory consists of the oldest purchases.
Advantages:
- In periods of inflation, LIFO results in higher COGS and lower profits, which can reduce tax liability.
Disadvantages:
- The ending inventory may be undervalued since it consists of older costs, which may not reflect current market prices.
- LIFO is not permitted under IFRS.
Example:
Using the same data as in the FIFO example:
COGS for 150 units:
- 150 units @ ₹12 = ₹1,800
Total COGS = ₹1,800
3. Weighted Average Cost (WAC)
WAC method calculates the cost of ending inventory and COGS based on the average cost of all units available for sale during the period.
Formula:
Weighted Average Cost per Unit = Total Cost of Inventory / Total Units
Example:
Using the same data:
Total units = 100 + 200 = 300
Total cost = ₹1,000 + ₹2,400 = ₹3,400
Weighted average cost per unit = ₹3,400 ÷ 300 = ₹11.33
COGS for 150 units = 150 × ₹11.33 = ₹1,699.50
Comparison of Methods
| Criteria | FIFO | LIFO | WAC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost Flow Assumption | Oldest items sold first | Newest items sold first | Average cost |
| Ending Inventory Value | Higher during inflation | Lower during inflation | Moderate |
| Profit Impact | Higher profit | Lower profit | Average profit |
| Permitted by IFRS | Yes | No | Yes |
Importance of Consistency
Once a method of stock valuation is adopted, it should be consistently applied across accounting periods. Changing methods frequently can distort financial results and reduce comparability. However, any change in the valuation method must be disclosed, along with its financial impact, as per accounting standards.
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