Pwc's Cfodirect Podcast

In this episode, we explain how to identify the accounting acquirer in an acquisition—an essential first step in accounting for a business combination. We also outline key changes in the FASB’s new guidance (ASU 2025-03, Determining the Accounting Acquirer in the Acquisition of a Variable Interest Entity) that impact this assessment.In this episode, we discuss:1:16 – Overview of business combinations and importance of identifying the acquirer6:12 – New FASB guidance applicable when the legal acquiree is a variable interest entity (VIE)10:33 – Factors to consider when determining the accounting acquirer17:35 – Effective date and transition provisions for adopting the new guidanceFor more information, see section 2.3 of our Business combinations guide.You may also be interested in our related podcast episodes mentioned during this discussion:Accounting for business combinations: Being prepared for a deal – discusses the foundations of acquisition accountingThe consolidation framework - Identifying a VIE – explo