CFA CFA Level 2 MACRS depreciation: how does it work?

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MACRS depreciation: how does it work?

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    • Avatar of Zee TanZee Tan
      Keymaster
        • CFA Charterholder
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        Answering the second part of your question first: If you’re asked to calculate depreciation at the end of the first year with modified accelerated cost recovery system (MACRS) depreciation and the half-year convention, there is a formula to be followed:

        Depreciation in 1st year=Cost×1Depreciation Period×A×Depreciation Convention

        Depreciation in Later Years=(Residual Value)×1Depreciation Period×A

        A and Depreciation Periods are standard assumed values:

        A is 100% or 150% or 200%

        Useful Life = 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 25 … depending on asset class

        So depreciation in first year, assuming 200% declining balance method, using half-year convention:

        =cost×13×200%×12=33%

        In other words, if you’re looking up from a table (or given a value) that says this assumes a half-year convention, the given value should already incorporate the half year calculation, i.e. the number is already divided by 2, so don’t divide it by 2 again.

        The first part of your question, I’m not sure if there’s enough info included.

        Assuming your example assumes a double-declining balance method (A = 200%) and half-year convention, there’s depreciation in year 4 (the remaining half year) so book value is not zero if your project ends at end of year 3.

        Terminal Net Operating Cash Flow (TNOCF) = Salvage Value + Net Working Capital Inv – Tax (Salvage Value – End Book Value)

        So TNOCF is calculable at the end of year 3, I’m not following why TNOCF ‘would not be needed’ if the project is only 3 years.

        Thoughts?

      • Avatar of cfyaycfyay
        Participant
          • CFA Level 1
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          umm my main thought is where is this formula in the L2 CFA institute books or prep provider materials??!?! Am I going mad? Thanks though does make sense

          • Avatar of Zee TanZee Tan
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              Not sure if CFA curriculum goes into that level of detail. If MACRS is asked in the exam you’ll be provided with tables for the right values etc.

              But sometimes without the whole concept it can ironically be more confusing!

          • Avatar of BrivelacceBrivelacce
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              • CFA Level 1
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              For a 3-year project, the MACRS Year 3 percentage is the depreciation amount applicable in the project’s final year. You’re correct that the Year 4 MACRS percentage (the “half-year convention” extra amount) is not needed for TNOCF calculation since the project ends after Year 3. space waves

            • Avatar of UstractUstract
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                • CFA Level 2
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                thanks

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