Forms of Investments

Enterprises hold investments for diverse reasons. For some enterprises, investment activity is a significant element of operations, and assessment of the performance of the enterprise may largely, or solely, depend on the reported results of this activity. Some investments have no physical existence and are represented merely by certificates or similar documents (e.g., shares) while others exist in a physical form (e.g., buildings). For some investments, an active market exists from which a market value can be established.

For other investments, an active market does not exist and other means are used to determine fair value.

Classification of Investments

• A current investment is an investment that is by its nature readily realisable and is intended to be held for not more than one year from the date on which such investment is made. The intention to hold for not more than one year is to be judged at the time of purchase of investment.
• A long term investment is an investment other than a current investment.