4. Determination of Fair Values

A number of the Group’s accounting policies and disclosures require the determination of fair value, for both financial and non-financial assets and liabilities. Fair values have been determined for measurement and for disclosure purposes based on the following methods. When applicable, further information about the assumptions made in determining fair values is disclosed in the notes specific to that asset or liability.

(a) Property, plant and equipment

The fair value of property, plant and equipment recognised as a result of a business combination is based on market values. The market value of property is the estimated amount for which a property could be exchanged on the date of valuation between a willing buyer and a willing seller in an arm’s length transaction after proper marketing wherein the parties had each acted knowledgeably and willingly. The fair value of items of plant, equipment, fixtures and fittings is based on market approach and cost approaches using quoted market prices for similar items when available.

When no quoted market prices are available, the fair value of property, plant and equipment is primarily determined using depreciated replacement cost. This method considers the cost to reproduce or replace the property, plant and equipment, adjusted for physical, functional or economical depreciation, and obsolescence.

(b) Investments in equity

The fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss and available-for-sale financial assets is determined by reference to their quoted bid price at the reporting date.

(c) Trade and other receivables

The fair value of trade and other receivables is estimated as the present value of future cash flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the reporting date. This fair value is determined for disclosure purposes or when acquired in a business combination.

(d) Inventories

The fair value of inventories acquired in a business combination is determined based on its estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs of sale, and a reasonable profit margin based on the effort required to complete and sell the inventories.

(e) Non-derivative financial liabilities

Fair value, which is determined for disclosure purposes, is calculated based on the present value of future principal and interest cash flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the reporting date. For finance leases the market rate of interest is determined by reference to similar lease agreements.

Return to Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2011