Local trends

A snapshot of FTSE 350 reporting
Our review of narrative reporting practices - A snapshot of FTSE 350 reporting - shows that the vast majority of companies continue to cover the basic information that is required. However, few provide the clear picture of performance or the depth of understanding that we consider necessary in the current economic environment.


Joining the dots - A summary of the narrative reporting practices of the FTSE 350
Survey of the narrative reporting practices of the FTSE 350 identifying evolving trends in narrative reporting over the last 12 months. The summary findings illustrate the continued improvement in narrative reporting during the year. However, despite the improvements in the scope of information reported, the level of transparency afforded by the legislation also highlights the continuing challenges companies face with the quality of information reported.


The Australian Reporting Environment - Telling it like it is
In an on-going effort to understand the information needs of investors about financial reporting issues, the global PwC research team interviewed over 250 investment professionals about the adequacy of the corporate reporting model. This included interviewing analysts in Australia to find out their views.
The Australian survey results, published in 'The Australian reporting environment - Telling it like it is', make an important contribution to a deeper understanding of attitudes and practices in the local investment community.


Business Review - has it made a difference?
A survey of the narrative reporting practices of the FTSE 350 assessing whether the UK government's approach to narrative reporting legislation (the Business Review) has been successful. The survey covers two aspects of reporting:
- how well companies responded to the Business Review legislation; and
- whether companies are moving towards best practice.


Tax Transparency Framework 2007
The tax environment is changing and there is increasing pressure on companies to be more transparent about their tax policies and positions. We suggest that at the heart of all stakeholder needs is enhanced transparency. Following discussions with companies and stakeholders we have developed a suggested framework for communicating the total tax contribution in its full context. Our framework suggests that tax reporting should include tax strategy and risk management, tax numbers and performance and details of Total Tax Contribution and the wider impact of taxes.


Show me more than the money: an assessment of how prepared companies are for the business review
To give insight to companies dealing with the business review, PwC looked at over 120 annual reports to see if the review and ASB best practice recommendations have had an impact on company reporting. Our objective was to understand if, and how, the new Business Review requirements and recommendations have impacted company reporting.


The Business Review and AIM
The report 'The Business Review and AIM' reviews how companies on the UK Alternative Investment Market (AIM) companies, for whom the Business Review is now mandatory, have been complying with the legislation. It looks at the quality of narrative reporting in their annual reports both before and after the Business Review came into effect. In addition the report highlights areas where AIM companies could be looking to improve and strengthen their Review.


