Accounting for Contingent Consideration under Ind AS
- Blog|News|Account & Audit|
- 2 Min Read
- By Taxmann
- |
- Last Updated on 21 August, 2025
1. Measurement of Consideration in a Business Combination
In a business combination, the consideration transferred is always measured at fair value. This fair value is determined at the acquisition date and represents the total economic outflow incurred by the acquirer in exchange for control of the acquiree. It ensures that all elements of the transaction are measured consistently and reflect the true cost of acquisition.
2. Components of Consideration Transferred
The consideration includes multiple elements, such as the fair value of assets transferred by the acquirer, the liabilities assumed towards the former owners of the acquiree, and equity interests issued by the acquirer. By including all these components, the fair value approach captures the complete financial impact of the acquisition. This holistic measurement ensures transparency and comparability in financial reporting.
3. Contingent Consideration Arrangements
Beyond the basic assets, liabilities, and equity interests, the consideration also encompasses any asset or liability arising from a contingent consideration arrangement. Such arrangements are agreed upon as part of the acquisition terms and typically depend on future events or performance conditions. For example, the acquirer may agree to pay additional consideration if the acquiree achieves specific revenue targets after the acquisition.
4. Accounting Treatment of Contingent Consideration
The initial recognition of contingent consideration in the books of the acquirer follows fair value measurement principles. At the acquisition date, contingent consideration is recognized as either a financial liability or equity, depending on the settlement terms. Any subsequent changes in its fair value are generally recorded in the profit and loss account, unless it qualifies as equity. This accounting treatment ensures that the financial statements accurately reflect the risks and obligations associated with the acquisition.
Click Here To Read The Full Story
Disclaimer: The content/information published on the website is only for general information of the user and shall not be construed as legal advice. While the Taxmann has exercised reasonable efforts to ensure the veracity of information/content published, Taxmann shall be under no liability in any manner whatsoever for incorrect information, if any.

Taxmann Publications has a dedicated in-house Research & Editorial Team. This team consists of a team of Chartered Accountants, Company Secretaries, and Lawyers. This team works under the guidance and supervision of editor-in-chief Mr Rakesh Bhargava.
The Research and Editorial Team is responsible for developing reliable and accurate content for the readers. The team follows the six-sigma approach to achieve the benchmark of zero error in its publications and research platforms. The team ensures that the following publication guidelines are thoroughly followed while developing the content:
- The statutory material is obtained only from the authorized and reliable sources
- All the latest developments in the judicial and legislative fields are covered
- Prepare the analytical write-ups on current, controversial, and important issues to help the readers to understand the concept and its implications
- Every content published by Taxmann is complete, accurate and lucid
- All evidence-based statements are supported with proper reference to Section, Circular No., Notification No. or citations
- The golden rules of grammar, style and consistency are thoroughly followed
- Font and size that’s easy to read and remain consistent across all imprint and digital publications are applied


CA | CS | CMA