Mock Exam AM Q36

Why would shareholder’s equity increase from 1,300 to 1,800 after acquiring 50% of Lisam? I chose answer A, thinking that equity would stay the same after considering the purchase price. If Merick (the acquirer) is paying $500Mil for 50% of Lisam, wouldn’t you have to deduct $500Mil from assets somehow?

Yea, I had the same question but I guess when they say “consolidate the balance sheet” they are asking to use the consolidation method (somebody else replied to one of my post’s earlier about this). Using the consolidation method you then would have to add on the minority interest which is 500 Million.

OK - that makes sense…tricky. I think the answer key could’ve pointed that out better (as you did).

but the question is totally f’ed up. they tell you it is a post acquisition balance sheet, that only the income statement needs adjustment - but still have cash figures that do not add up. and the equity investment of 500 shows up as well. It is not a Post acquisition balance sheet - but a post equity method balance sheet. but guess that is one of the many tricks to be prepared for day-after…