Deficiencies in European company information

Abstract

Explains why there is currently no Companies House for Europe and describes the pan-European company information solution developed in a standardized format as an alternative by Bureau van Dijk. Outlines the cultural differences between company accounts filing regimes in different European countries, distinguishing between the Anglo-Saxon countries' approach of providing information for shareholders and the Continental approach of providing information for taxation and statistical purposes. Compares accounting practices and filing rules in a number of individual countries, indicating how their situations are changing. Gives details of the additional information that Bureau van Dijk information providers source, including industry classification, merger & acquisition and ownership data, and outlines the collection process. Emphasizes that users need to distinguish between what is missing and what is simply unavailable.