It is mandatory for consolidated statements to be prepared when one company has control (i.e. owns more than 50% of the outstanding common voting stock) of another company – unless that control is transitory or outside the hands of the majority owner (e.g. when the company or companies are in administration).

When should you consolidate accounts?

Consolidated financial statements are used when the parent company holds a majority stake by controlling more than 50% of the subsidiary business. Parent companies that hold more than 20% qualify to use consolidated accounting. If a parent company holds less than a 20% stake, it must use equity method accounting.

Why do we need consolidation?

When company owners consider mergers, acquisitions or sales, they must reconcile their personal bottom lines with the fiscal realities of customers, employees and investors. Successful consolidation can improve customer service, grow market share and reduce overall operating costs.