kursjustering

Kursjustering is a term used in finance and accounting to describe adjustments in the value of items caused by changes in exchange rates. It commonly applies to translating foreign currency balances and foreign operations into a company’s reporting currency, and to revaluing monetary items denominated in another currency. The goal is to reflect the economic impact of exchange rate movements on financial statements.

In accounting practice, kursjustering is closely tied to international standards for foreign currency translation, such as IFRS IAS 21. According to these standards, assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the functional or presentation currency at the closing rate, while income and expenses are translated at appropriate rates (typically the rate at the dates of the transactions or an average rate). Exchange differences arising from translating monetary items are usually recognized in profit or loss, whereas differences related to the net investment in foreign operations are typically recognized in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity. Non-monetary items are translated using the historical cost or the applicable fair value rate, depending on measurement basis.

Kursjustering also has practical implications for financial reporting and analysis. It can affect reported profits, asset values, and equity, and may lead to increased volatility in earnings and balance sheets from period to period. Clear disclosure is often required to help users understand the impact of exchange rate movements and the assumptions behind translation.

In a broader sense, kursjustering may also refer to adjustments in official exchange rates carried out by authorities to influence monetary conditions or competitiveness. This policy-related use is distinct from accounting-driven translation adjustments but can have a significant effect on domestic prices and trade. See IAS 21 and related Swedish accounting standards for detailed guidance.