Raportowanie przepływów pieniężnych z działalności operacyjnej zgodnie z różnymi standardami rachunkowości
Reporting cash flows from operating activities according to different accounting standards

Summary/Abstract: Purpose: This paper critically examines the classification of cash flows, focusing on conceptual and methodological discrepancies in the classification of operating cash flows (OFCs) and the calculation of Net Operating Cash Flow (NOCF) across IFRSs (IAS 7) and US GAAP (ASC 230), as well as standards in New Zealand (NZ IAS 7) and South Africa (SA IAS 7), emphasising the implications of such divergences for financial analysis and decision-making. Methodology/approach: Using a quantitative case study of Linas Agro Group, the research demonstrates how the flexibility allowed under IAS 7 (effective until 2027, hereinafter Current IAS 7) – with sixteen permissible variations for classification of operating cash flows can lead to inconsistent interpretations of financial performance, despite unchanged net cash flow figures. In contrast, ASC 230 permits only one consistent method, enhancing comparability. The revised IAS 7 standard, effective from 2027 (hereinafter Revised IAS 7), which mandates the reclassification of interest and dividend items outside operating activities, is also examined. Findings: The analysis reveals that the discretion allowed under Current IAS 7 leads to inconsistencies in the interpretation of financial performance, despite identical total net cash flow (NCF). Conversely, US GAAP’s uniform approach enhances comparability across companies. The amendments introduced by Revised IAS 7 – which require the reclassification of interest and dividend cash flows outside operating activities – are anticipated to enhance reporting transparency, curtail managerial discretion, and improve consistency. However, their quantitative impact is expected to be limited for companies that have previously applied the classification requirements of Current IAS 7 that are consistent with the requirements of Revised IAS 7. Research limitations/implications: The findings are based on a single-company case study, which may limit generalisability. However, the methodological issues highlighted are systemic and applicable to broader contexts. Further research could extend the analysis across multiple sectors and jurisdictions. Originality/value: This paper contributes to the discourse on the harmonisation of international accounting practices by highlighting the practical implications of divergent standards in cash flow classification.

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