Does Switzerland use IFRS or GAAP?

Asked by: Elnora Schowalter MD  |  Last update: October 8, 2026
Score: 4.1/5 (25 votes)

Switzerland uses a mix of IFRS, Swiss GAAP FER, and US GAAP, depending on company size and listing status. While large, publicly traded companies on the SIX Swiss Exchange generally use IFRS or US GAAP, many smaller or non-listed companies use Swiss GAAP FER, which provides a “true and fair view”. The Swiss Code of Obligations (CO) governs overall reporting.

Does Switzerland use GAAP or IFRS?

The Swiss Foundation for Accounting and Reporting publishes accounting standards (ARR/FER, oy wr 'Swiss GAAP'). Compliance with ARR/FER is required by all companies. However, compliance with IFRSs ensures compliance with ARR/FER, and many large Swiss companies have, for a number of years, followed IASs/IFRSs.

What is the accounting standard in Switzerland?

The Accounting and Reporting Recommendations (Swiss GAAP FER) are Swiss accounting standards that provide a true & fair view of financial position, cash flows and the results of operations. The concept.

Which countries use GAAP or IFRS?

IFRS is used in more than 110 countries around the world, including the EU and many Asian and South American countries. GAAP, on the other hand, is only used in the United States. Companies that operate in the U.S. and overseas may have more complexities in their accounting.

Which accounting software is used in Switzerland?

for your small business or startup. About 90'000 SMEs in Switzerland rely on bexio software for their accounting.

10 Things You Should Know IFRS vs GAAP Accounting

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Is ACCA accepted in Switzerland?

For ACCA members and students interested in obtaining the ACCA UK audit qualification, the updated process reflects Switzerland's inclusion as a recognised territory for statutory audit work experience. Visit the ACCA audit qualification pages for detailed application guidelines and eligibility requirements.

Does Germany use GAAP or IFRS?

Germany is an EU Member State. Consequently, German companies listed in an EU/EEA securities market follow IFRSs since 2005. The European Commission (EC) periodically issues a document which summarises the use of options of the IAS Regulation by European Union Member States.

Why is GAAP better than IFRS?

Which Is Better: IFRS or GAAP? This is a matter of perspective. IFRS is more principles-based, while GAAP is rules-based. A focus on principles may be more attractive to some as it captures the essence of a transaction more accurately.

Do all European countries use IFRS?

Regulation (EU) 2023/1803 codifies IFRS accounting standards as adopted by the EU. Every time a new standard is endorsed at EU level, the Commission publishes an amending regulation which is directly applicable in all EU countries.

What is the equivalent of GAAP in Europe?

U.S. GAAP are rules-based, while IFRS are principles-based, leading to reconciliation challenges. IFRS, developed by the IASB, are used by the U.K., EU countries, and others. The search for a universally accepted accounting standard is ongoing.

What is Swiss GAAP?

In Switzerland, Swiss GAAP FER is a recognised financial reporting standard according to Art. 962 of the Code of Obligations. This checklist allows users to review the completeness of the disclosures in the financial statements prepared according to Swiss GAAP FER.

Does Sweden use GAAP or IFRS?

Sweden is an EU Member State. Consequently, Swedish companies listed in an EU/EEA securities market follow IFRSs since 2005.

What is the Swiss law of accounting?

The Swiss Law on Accounting and Financial Reporting allows the creation of so-called “hidden reserves”. Hidden reserves are the difference between carrying values and the maximum amounts allowed for assets or the necessary amounts for liabilities allowed by the accounting law.

Which countries use GAAP vs IFRS?

Who uses GAAP and IFRS? GAAP is primarily used by companies in the United States, as required by the SEC. On the other hand, IFRS is used in over 140 countries, including the European Union, Canada, and Australia, to maintain consistency in international financial reporting.

When did IFRS replace GAAP?

When will the changes come into effect? The FRC has decided to apply the new regime for financial years beginning on or after 1 January 2015, which will require 2014 comparatives to be restated. What is FRS 102? FRS 102 will replace almost all current UK accounting standards from 2015.

What are the 4 pillars of IFRS?

The four pillars of IFRS S1 and S2 are governance, strategy, risk management and metrics and targets.

Does Switzerland use IFRS?

Companies in Switzerland also have the freedom to choose from various accounting standards, particularly IFRS, US GAAP and Swiss GAAP FER. The selection of the appropriate accounting standard is a strategic decision, which needs to take into account the wider implications beyond a pure cost-benefit consideration.

Why is the US not using IFRS?

Declaring (and rightfully so) that their main goal is to protect US investors' interests, the SEC notes that IFRS lacks consistent application, allows too much leeway with judgment, and is underdeveloped in many specific areas, for which the US GAAP has detailed and accepted guidance and established practice ( ...

Is Canada on IFRS?

The Canadian Accounting Standards Board (AcSB) requires publicly accountable enterprises to use IFRS in the preparation of all interim and annual financial statements. Most private companies also have the option to adopt IFRS for financial statement preparation.

Does Russia use IFRS?

Since 2012, IFRS have increasingly been adopted in Russia, and they are mandatory for consolidated financial statements, while standalone financial statements must be prepared using RAS. IFRS statements are also required for domestic public companies. IFRS are generally deemed more relevant to the needs of investors.

Does Portugal use IFRS?

Portugal is an EU Member State. Consequently, Portuguese companies listed in an EU/EEA securities market follow IFRSs since 2005.