Funds Flow Reporting in Kuwait

Abstract

The usefulness of cash flow statement is widely recognized despite some contradictory results in empirical studies of the relative usage of its data. This article gives an insight into the significance of cash flow statement and cash flow reporting in Kuwait, both past and present. Scholars have highlighted cash flow importance from different perspectives. Their findings have implications for accounting standard setting, regulation of financial information and financial statement analysis. Although the evolution of International Accounting and the activities of many standard setters, the presentation of Statements of Changes in Financial Position (SCFP) is not yet mandatory in many developing countries. The empirical survey covers 52 Kuwaiti companies listed in Kuwait Stock Exchange and engaged in banking, investment, manufacturing, real estate, and service industries. Out of these, the sample contained (39) companies, which adhered to International Accounting Standards (IAS). Further examination was conducted on three variables that are most likely to influence the disclosure of companies, namely the legal form, size, and scope of international activities. This survey shows that the presentation of funds flow statements has increased significantly. Also, the lack of standard or legal requirement has led to a proliferation not only in the form of the statements but also in terminology. Large Kuwaiti companies have awakened to the need-not only in the context of funds flow statements, but also in other fields of accounting and disclosure, to be sufficiently prepared to meet the accounting challenges in the future, which will be of international standard.