Explaining the Obstacles to Implementing International Financial Reporting Standards; Grounded Theory Approach

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to use expert opinions to identify and clarify the obstacles to the implementation of International Financial Reporting Standards in Iran. Methods: In this study, interviews were conducted with 32 expertsIncluding auditors, auditing standards committee members, executives and experts from Stock Exchange's Financial Reporting department, bank and insurance financial managers, university professors and stock sector financial managers using Depth Interview tools and the data were analyzed using open, axial and selective three-step coding based on the Grounded theory. Results:The Lack of model and systematic standards for determining fair value, lack of evaluation system, lack of conceptual-theoretical framework, weakness of education, weakness of infrastructure and technology, lack of expert staff and expert audit firms, fluctuations in economic indicatorsand political uncertainties were identified as causal conditions and other concepts in the form of interventionist conditions, contextual conditions, strategies and consequences of obstacles to implementation of international financial reporting standards in Iran. Conclusion: According to the results of the research »Harmonization Obstacles« is a central category and include "Fundamental Obstacles" and "Technical Obstacles". In order to implement international financial reporting standards, in addition to technical obstacles such as infrastructures and technology, paying attention to fundamental obstacles such as economic, political and evaluation factors seems to be very important and necessary.

Keywords

• international standards
• financial reporting
• implementation obstacles
• grounded theory