Essential accounting and valuation principles
a. Principles
These financial statements were prepared according to the provisions of the Swiss Law on Accounting and Financial Reporting (32nd title of the Swiss Code of Obligations). Where not prescribed by law, the significant accounting and valuation principles applied are described below.
b. Inventories
Inventories and non-invoiced services are recorded at acquisition: If the net realizable value at the balance sheet date is lower than acquisition costs, net realizable values are used. Acquisition costs are calculated using the weighted average cost method.
c. Financial assets and investments
Financial assets and investments are valued at their acquisition cost adjusted for impairment losses.
d. Interest-bearing financial liabilities
Interest-bearing financial liabilities are recognized in the balance sheet at its nominal value.
e. Leasing
Leasing and rental contracts are recognized based on legal ownership. Therefore, any leasing or rental expenses are recognized as expenses in the period they are incurred; however, the leased or rented objects themselves are not recognized in the balance sheet.
f. Revenue from sale of goods and services
Net sales are determined by deducting transportation costs, value added taxes, discounts and returns from gross sales. Revenue trading activities are recognized when the entity has transferred the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods to the buyer, when the entity retains neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually associated with ownership nor effective control over the goods sold, when the amount of revenue can be measured reliably, and when it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the entity and the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be measured reliably.