Mindre företag och K3 : Vilka anledningar har mindre företag att välja K3?

Sammanfattning: Background and problem: It is compulsory for all Swedish companies that prepare the annual report to apply K-regulations. A smaller company can choose between the principle-based K3 and the rule-based K2. There are differences between the accounting and valuation rules in K2 and K3. Some that can only be used in K3 are, for example, component depreciation, capitalization of development costs and accounting for deferred tax. Previous studies found that company size, valuation methods, capitalization opportunities and the industry in which companies operate are reasons for choosing K3. Purpose: The purpose is to find out why smaller companies choose K3, and if there is a relationship between sectors and the choice to apply K3. Method: We used a qualitative method with inductive approach because this study is focused on respondents' views on the reasons for choosing K3. We asked nine accounting consultants for what reasons smaller companies have to choose K3. We also asked three smaller companies for just their reasons to choose K3. We analyzed the empirical findings with institutional theory because it best explains that companies with similar structures mimic each other, and decision theory because it provides an insight into how individuals and organizations decide. Conclusions: We found that business growth, planned or unplanned is a reason for smaller companies to choose K3. The valuation rules that are considered as a reason for choosing K3 are the ability to capitalize development costs, and this opportunity is a clear reason for development companies to choose K3. Component depreciation has been described by many respondents as demanding, and only real estate companies with major renovation needs see advantages of component depreciation. Asset revaluation, deferred tax and external stakeholders are not seen as clear reasons for choosing K3.