33. For which of the following investments in securities is a firm most likely to report unrealized gains or losses on its income statement?
A. Preferred stock, which the firm classifies as available-for-sale.
B. Five-year bonds, which the firm purchased in a private placement.
C. Listed call options, which the firm intends to exercise at expiration. | |
Ans: C.
Options are derivatives, which are reported at fair value on the balance sheet with unrealized gains and losses recognized on the income statement. Available-for-sale securities are marked on the balance sheet, but unrealized gains and losses are reported in owners’ equity as other comprehensive income. Bonds purchased in a private placement cannot be resold to the public and therefore are likely to be classified as held-to-maturity, in which case the firm does not recognize unrealized gains or losses. |