The balance sheet describes the company’s assets and liabilities separately, and shows shareholders’ equity separately.
The profit and loss account summarises the income and expenses for the financial year, regardless of when they were received or paid. After deducting depreciation, amortisation and provisions, it shows the profit or loss for the year. Income and expenses, classified by category, must be presented either in tabular form or in the form of a list.
The amount of the company’s commitments in respect of pensions, supplementary pensions, indemnities and allowances due to retirement or similar benefits for members or associates of its staff and its corporate officers is indicated in the notes to the financial statements. In addition, companies may decide to record the amount corresponding to all or part of these commitments in the balance sheet in the form of a provision.
The notes to the financial statements supplement and comment on the information given in the balance sheet and income statement.