Accounting & taxation

Leaseurope monitors and analyses topics regarding accounting and taxation which are likely to affect the European leasing and automotive rental industries.

Accountants working

This includes developments in International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and both direct and indirect tax issues. A key focus for many years has been the development of new international lease accounting rules under IFRS 16, which were implemented in 2019, where Leaseurope engaged extensively with bodies like the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG).

Key priorities

Our current priorities focus on supporting member associations when dealing with national accounting standard setters after the release of IFRS 16, in addition to other files.

IFRS 16

Support members national advocacy regarding IFRS 16 standards being transferred to local GAAP, monitor market response to IFRS 16 implementation and participate in relevant technical consultations. See our dedicated webpage on IFRS 16.

European tax regimes

Promote taxation policy measures that support business investment, ensuring they work for all types of leasing and rental services as these are the finance methods most likely to be used by European businesses. See our dedicated webpage on Business taxation for the 21st century.

Sustainability reporting

Contribute to the development of new sustainability reporting standards in Europe, helping to ensure that financial reporting by banks and other lessors fully recognises the environmental benefits of leasing activities. See our paper on the role of leasing in transition finance.