2023 Year-end toolkit: Balance sheet classification of debt

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In each episode of ourYear-end toolkit series, our guests share insights on key areas of the year-end accounting and reporting process. 

In this episode, guest host Kevin Vaughn, PwC National Office partner, sits down with Suzanne Stephani, PwC National Office director, to discuss the judgments and complexities involved in the balance sheet classification of debt, focusing on the challenges arising more frequently in today’s macroeconomic environment.

In this episode, you will hear: 

• 1:26 - A refresher on the importance of balance sheet classification of debt, including the impact of current economic conditions on debt and credit risk 
• 4:10 - Key considerations for classifying debt, including: 
  • 6:11 - Reminders for dealing with refinancing arrangements 
  • 8:20 - The implications of subjective acceleration clauses (SAC) in financing agreements 
  • 11:32 - The implications of covenant violation waivers on balance sheet classification 
  • 15:30 - Other facts and circumstances impacting debt classification 
• 23:10 - A discussion of the increased prominence of revolving debt arrangements and reminders for companies dealing with revolving agreements 
• 30:05 - Final advice for preparers on navigating debt classification and managing covenant violations 

For more information, read chapter 12 of our Financial statement presentation guide. Additionally, follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app for upcoming episodes in our Year-end toolkit series.

Suzanne Stephani is a director in PwC’s National Office specializing in the statement of cash flows, as well as the application and interpretation of the accounting guidance related to financing and leasing transactions.

Kevin Vaughn is a partner in PwC’s National Office. Prior to joining PwC, Kevin was senior associate chief accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where he spent almost 20 years focusing on complex financial reporting and technical accounting issues.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to [email protected].