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All investments in debt securities whose fair values are not readily determinable are carried at historical cost. True or False

User Sheyla
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Final answer:

The statement is true. Investments in debt securities whose fair values are not readily determinable are carried at historical cost.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement is true. Investments in debt securities whose fair values are not readily determinable are carried at historical cost. This means that they are recorded on the balance sheet at the price they were originally purchased for, and any changes in their market value are not taken into account. The historical cost method is used when the fair value of an investment cannot be reliably determined. The statement 'All investments in debt securities whose fair values are not readily determinable are carried at historical cost' is false.

They are often reported on the balance sheet at amortized cost, which is the historical cost adjusted for the amortization of any discount or premium over the life of the security. Fair value measurement is used for debt securities that a company has the positive intent and ability to trade; these would be classified as "trading" securities and are reported at fair value even when they're not readily available. When the fair value is not determinable, various valuation techniques may be employed, including discounted cash flow analysis or other valuation models.

User NonSleeper
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Final answer:

The statement is false, as not all debt securities are carried at historical cost. Specifically, only held-to-maturity securities are recorded at historical cost, whereas trading and available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value, using various valuation methods if the fair value is not readily determinable.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that all investments in debt securities whose fair values are not readily determinable are carried at historical cost is false. Generally, debt securities are categorized into three types for accounting purposes: held-to-maturity, trading, and available-for-sale. Held-to-maturity securities, which the company has the intent and ability to hold to maturity, are recorded at historical cost. However, trading and available-for-sale securities should be reported at fair value, even if this value is not readily determinable. If fair value cannot be determined, other valuation methods, such as discounted cash flows or valuation models, might be used.

The question seems to be part of a larger discussion about government debt and spending, as well as general principles of finance and investments, which can impact the valuation and accounting for various financial instruments. It is also important to note that real-world calculations for the price of a bond are complex and influenced by market interest rates and the credit risk of the borrower. Nonetheless, the price of a bond reflects the present value of expected future payments.

User Keyah
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