CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING STANDARDS OF FIXED ASSETS: THE CASE OF INDUSTRIAL COMPANIES LISTED ON STOCK EXCHANGE BM&FBOVESPA

This paper deals with the major changes in accounting norms introduced by the convergence of Brazil to international accounting standards. The study is delimited to the standards that affect the fixed assets of the entities, which are those related to assessment of the useful life of fixed assets, the adoption of the concept of deemed cost and the assessment of the recoverable value of assets (impairment). Was sought through bibliographic and documentary research, identify potential impacts of these changes in the financial statements of southern industries on the Bovespa. Was used as a tool for evaluating that impact the comparability of quantitative accounting balances before and after changes in accounting standards and comparability of information generated by the impact on the financial statements of the companies under study. It was found that the change in the way of evaluating the useful life of fixed assets significantly reduced costs and depreciation expenses of business, generating a positive impact on results, except when the adoption of deemed cost. It was noted also that the choice of adoption of deemed cost, significantly increased the fixed assets of enterprises, by reason of the carrying amount is substantially less than the fair value of assets. Finally, it was found that the application of impairment did not impact the results of companies significantly, however observed that together, the changes in the form of measurement and recognition of fixed assets because of changes in accounting standards changed significantly complicate the information presented in the financial statements.