IFRS first time users: some empirical evidence from Greek companies

Abstract

The main object of this paper is to examine accounting harmonisation in a sample of
companies with regard to the use of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The
research instrument took the form of a questionnaire, which was completed by the company
accountants. Our investigation focused on the current level of harmonisation. Analysis using the
independent chi-square test (p<0.05) showed that: (a) compliance with IFRS was not
independent of company size or stock exchange listing status, (b) familiarity with IFRS was not
independent of company size or listing status, and (c) familiarity with IFRS was independent of
the type of business in which the company was engaged (commercial, manufacturing, services).
The results of the study indicate that: (1) Listed firms tend to comply with IFRS earlier and
more easily than non-listed companies, and (2) Large and medium-sized firms tend to comply
with IFRS requirements to a greater extent. This is also valid for listed firms.