ASC 815: Derivatives

Derivatives have a reputation for being complicated, but the fundamentals do not have to be intimidating. Our ASC 815 derivatives CPE courses focus specifically on how to identify and account for freestanding and embedded derivatives under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging.

This collection bundles the two GAAP Dynamics derivatives courses and is eligible for 2.0 CPE credits. The first course explores the accounting definition and characteristics of a derivative instrument, important scope exceptions, and the accounting for freestanding derivatives. The second course focuses on embedded derivatives in hybrid instruments, including how to identify embedded features and determine whether bifurcation is required.

Topics covered include:

• Definition and characteristics of a derivative
• Scope exceptions under ASC 815
• Accounting for freestanding derivatives
• Embedded derivatives in hybrid instruments
• Identifying embedded derivative features
• Bifurcation analysis and accounting

Further details

The first course builds the derivative-accounting foundation under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging. Learners work through the accounting definition and characteristics of a derivative instrument, then consider the scope exceptions that can remove an otherwise derivative-like contract from the ASC 815 accounting model. For instruments that remain within scope, the course explains the basic accounting consequences of derivative treatment.

The second course moves inside hybrid instruments to embedded derivatives. Learners identify features that may meet the definition of a derivative, analyze whether those features must be separated from the host contract, and consider the accounting for both the embedded derivative and the host when bifurcation is required.

This collection deliberately stops before hedge accounting. Its purpose is to answer the foundational questions first: Is there a derivative? Is it within scope? Is there an embedded feature? And, if so, does that feature need to be bifurcated?

Who will benefit

These courses are designed for accountants, treasury professionals, financial reporting teams, and auditors who encounter swaps, options, forwards, hybrid instruments, or contracts with derivative-like features. They are particularly useful for professionals who need a solid ASC 815 foundation before moving on to hedge accounting or more specialized derivative strategies.

Value proposition

Purchase both courses for $179 instead of $240 if purchased separately—a savings of $61.

Interested in group discounts? Contact us today to learn more.