Note 1

a) Significant Accounting Policies

1) Basis of accounting

UBS AG and subsidiaries ("UBS" or the "Group") provide a broad range of financial services including advisory ser- vices, underwriting, financing, market making, asset management and brokerage on a global level, and retail banking in Switzerland. The Group was formed on 29 June 1998 when Swiss Bank Corporation and Union Bank of Switzerland merged. The merger was accounted for using the uniting of interests method of accounting.

The consolidated financial statements of UBS (the "Financial Statements") are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), and stated in Swiss francs (CHF), the currency of Switzerland where UBS AG is incorporated. On 6 March 2008, the Board of Directors approved them for issue.

Disclosures under IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures about the nature and extent of risks and Capital disclosures under IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements have been included in the audited sections of Risk, Treasury and Capital Management 2007.

2) Use of estimates in the preparation of Financial Statements

In preparing the Financial Statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported income, expenses, assets, liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Use of available information and application of judgment are inherent in the formation of estimates. Actual results in the future could differ from such estimates, and the differences may be material to the Financial Statements.

3) Subsidiaries, associates and jointly controlled entities

The Financial Statements comprise those of the parent company (UBS AG) and its subsidiaries including certain special purpose entities, presented as a single economic entity. The effects of intra-group transactions are eliminated in preparing the Financial Statements. Subsidiaries including special purpose entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by the Group are consolidated. UBS controls an entity if it has the power to govern the financial and operating policies so as to obtain benefits from the entity's activities. Subsidiaries acquired are consolidated from the date control is transferred to the Group. Subsidiaries to be divested are consolidated up to the date of disposal (i. e. loss of control).

Equity attributable to minority interests is presented in the consolidated balance sheet within equity, separately from equity attributable to UBS shareholders. Net income attributable to minority interests is shown separately in the income statement.

The Group sponsors the formation of entities, which may or may not be directly or indirectly owned subsidiaries, for the purpose of asset securitization transactions and structured debt issuance, and to accomplish certain narrow and well defined objectives. These companies may acquire assets directly or indirectly from UBS or its affiliates. Some of these companies are bankruptcy-remote entities whose assets are not available to satisfy the claims of creditors of the Group or any of its subsidiaries. Such companies are consolidated in the Group's Financial Statements when the substance of the relationship between the Group and the company indicates that the company is controlled by the Group.

Investments in associates in which UBS has a significant influence are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Significant influence is normally evidenced when UBS owns 20% or more of a company's voting rights. Investments in associates are initially recorded at cost, and the carrying amount is increased or decreased to recognize the Group's share of the investee's net profit or loss (including net profit or loss recognized directly in equity) after the date of acquisition.

Interests in jointly controlled entities, in which UBS and one or more third parties have joint control, are accounted for under the equity method. A jointly controlled entity is subject to a contractual agreement between UBS and one or more third parties, which establishes joint control over its economic activities. Interests in such entities are reflected under Investments in associates on the balance sheet and the related disclosures are included in the disclosures for associates. UBS holds certain interests in jointly controlled real estate entities.

Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries, investments in associates and interests in jointly controlled entities are classified as "held for sale" if UBS has entered into an agreement for their disposal within a period of 12 months. Major lines of business and subsidiaries that were acquired exclusively with the intent for resale are presented as discontinued operations in the income statement in the period where the sale occurred or it becomes clear that a sale will occur within 12 months. Discontinued operations are presented in the income statement as profit from discontinued operations before tax, comprising the total of profit or loss before tax from operations and net gain or loss on sale before tax, as well as discontinued operations tax expense.

4) Recognition and derecognition of financial instruments

UBS recognizes financial instruments on its balance sheet when the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

UBS enters into transactions where it transfers financial assets recognized on its balance sheet but retains either all risks and rewards of the transferred financial assets or a portion of them. If all or substantially all risks and rewards are retained, the transferred financial assets are not derecognized from the balance sheet. Transfers of financial assets with retention of all or substantially all risks and rewards include, for example, securities lending and repurchase transactions described in this Note under parts 12) and 13). They further include transactions where financial assets are sold to a third party with a concurrent total rate of return swap on the transferred assets to retain all their risks and rewards. These types of transactions are accounted for as secured financing transactions.

In transactions where substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership of a financial asset are neither retained nor transferred, UBS derecognizes the financial asset if control over the asset is lost. The rights and obligations retained in the transfer are recognized separately as assets and liabilities as appropriate. In transfers where control over the financial asset is retained, the Group continues to recognize the asset to the extent of its continuing involvement, determined by the extent to which it is exposed to changes in the value of the transferred asset. Examples of such transactions are transfers of financial assets involving guarantees, writing put options, acquiring call options, or specific types of swaps linked to the performance of the asset.

UBS removes a financial liability from its balance sheet when it is extinguished, i.e. when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged or cancelled or expires.

Assets held in an agency or fiduciary capacity are not assets of the Group and are not reported in the Financial Statements, provided the recognition criteria of IFRS are not satisfied.

5) Determination of fair value

For an overview of financial assets and financial liabilities accounted for at fair value, refer to the IAS 39 measurement categories presented in Note 28: financial assets and financial liabilities held for trading, financial assets and financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss, and financial investments available-for-sale. For details on the determination of fair value, including those on fair value measurements for instruments linked to the US residential mortgage market, refer to Note 26.

For financial instruments traded in active markets, the determination of fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities is based on quoted market prices or dealer price quotations. For all other financial instruments, fair value is determined using valuation techniques. Valuation techniques include net present value techniques, the discounted cash flow method, comparison to similar instruments for which market observable prices exist and valuation models. UBS uses widely recognized valuation models for determining fair values of non-standardized financial instruments of lower complexity like options or interest rate and currency swaps. For these financial instruments, inputs into models are market observable.

For more complex instruments, UBS uses internally developed models, which are usually based on valuation methods and techniques generally recognized as standard within the industry. Some of the inputs to these models may not be market observable and are therefore estimated based on assumptions. The impact on Net profit of financial instrument valuations reflecting non-market observable inputs is disclosed in Note 26d). When entering into a transaction where model inputs are not market observable, the financial instrument is initially recognized at the transaction price, which is generally the best indicator of fair value. This may differ from the value obtained from the valuation model. The timing of the recognition in income of this initial difference in fair value ("Deferred day 1 profit or loss") depends on the individual facts and circumstances of each transaction but is never later than when the market data become observable. Refer to Note 26e) for details on deferred day 1 profit or loss.

The output of a model is always an estimate or approximation of a value that cannot be determined with certainty, and valuation techniques employed may not fully reflect all factors relevant to the positions UBS holds. Valuations are therefore adjusted, where appropriate, to allow for additional factors including model risks, liquidity risk and counterparty credit risk. Based on the established fair value and model governance policies and related controls and procedures applied, management believes that these valuation adjustments are necessary and appropriate to fairly state the values of financial instruments carried at fair value on the balance sheet.

A breakdown of fair values of financial instruments measured on the basis of quoted market prices in active markets (level 1), valuation techniques reflecting market observable inputs (level 2), and valuation techniques reflecting significant non-market-observable inputs (level 3) is provided in Note 26b).

6) Trading portfolio assets and liabilities

Trading portfolio assets consist of money market paper, other debt instruments, including traded loans, equity instruments, precious metals and other commodities owned by the Group ("long" positions). Trading portfolio liabilities consist of obligations to deliver financial instruments such as money market paper, other debt instruments and equity instruments which the Group has sold to third parties but does not own ("short" positions).

The trading portfolio is carried at fair value. Gains and losses realized on disposal or redemption and unrealized gains and losses from changes in the fair value of trading portfolio assets and liabilities are reported as Net trading income. Interest and dividend income and expense on trading portfolio assets or liabilities are included in Interest and dividend income or Interest and dividend expense.

The Group uses settlement date accounting when recording trading financial asset transactions. From the date the transaction is entered into (trade date), UBS recognizes any unrealized profits and losses arising from revaluing that contract to fair value in Net trading income. The corresponding receivable or payable is presented on the balance sheet as a positive or negative replacement value. When the transaction is consummated (settlement date), a resulting financial asset is recognized on or derecognized from the balance sheet at the fair value of the consideration given or received plus or minus the change in fair value of the contract since the trade date. When the Group becomes party to a sales contract of a financial asset classified in its trading portfolio, it derecognizes the asset on the day of its transfer (settlement date).

Trading portfolio assets transferred to external parties that do not qualify for derecognition (see part 4) ) are reclassified on UBS‘s balance sheet from Trading portfolio assets to Trading portfolio assets pledged as collateral, if the transferee has received the right to sell or repledge them.

7) Financial assets and Financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss ("Fair Value Option")

A financial instrument may only be designated at fair value through profit or loss at inception and this designation cannot subsequently be changed. Financial assets and financial liabilities designated at fair value are presented in separate lines on the face of the balance sheet.

The conditions for applying the fair value option are met on the basis that

a) they are hybrid instruments which consist of a debt host and an embedded derivative component, or

b) they are items that are part of a portfolio which is risk managed on a fair value basis and reported to senior management on that basis, or

c) the application of the fair value option reduces or eliminates an accounting mismatch that would otherwise arise.

Hybrid instruments which fall under criterion a) above include i) bonds and compound debt liabilities issued, ii) compound debt liabilities – OTC, and iii) hybrid financial assets from reverse repurchase agreements. Bonds and compound debt liabilities issued and OTC generally include embedded derivative components which refer to an underlying, e. g. equity price, interest rate, commodities price or index. UBS has designated almost all of its issued hybrid debt instruments as Financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss.

Besides hybrid instruments, the fair value option is also applied to certain loans and loan commitments which are substantially hedged with credit derivatives. The application of the fair value option to these instruments reduces an accounting mismatch, as loans would have been otherwise accounted for at amortized cost or as financial investments available-for-sale (refer to part 8)), whereas the hedging credit protection is accounted for as a derivative instrument at fair value through profit or loss. Loan commitments other than onerous loan commitments are only recognized on balance sheet if the fair value option has been applied.

UBS has also applied the fair value option to a hedge fund investment which is part of a portfolio managed on a fair value basis. Fair value changes related to financial instruments designated at fair value through profit or loss are recognized in Net trading income.

Interest and dividend income and interest expense on financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss are included in Interest income or Interest expense.

UBS applies the same recognition and derecognition principles to financial instruments designated at fair value as for financial instruments held for trading (refer to parts 4) and 6)).

8) Financial investments available-for-sale

Financial investments available-for-sale are non-derivative financial assets that are not classified as held for trading, designated at fair value through profit or loss, or loans and receivables. They are recognized on a settlement date basis. Financial investments available-for-sale include strategic equity investments as well as instruments that, in management's opinion, may be sold in response to or in anticipation of needs for liquidity or changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates or equity prices. Financial investments available-for-sale consist mainly of equity instruments, including certain private equity investments. In addition, certain debt instruments and non-performing loans acquired in the secondary market are classified as financial investments available-for-sale.

Financial investments available-for-sale are carried at fair value. Lock-in periods for equity investments are considered when determining fair value. Unrealized gains or losses are reported in Equity, net of applicable income taxes, until such investments are sold, collected or otherwise disposed of, or until any such investment is determined to be impaired. On disposal of an investment, the accumulated unrealized gain or loss included in Equity is transferred to Net profit for the period and reported in Other income. Gains and losses on disposal are determined using the average cost method.

Interest and dividend income on financial investments available-for-sale are included in Interest and dividend income from financial investments available-for-sale.

If a financial investment available-for-sale is determined to be impaired, the cumulative unrealized loss previously recognized in Equity is included in Net profit for the period and reported in Other income. UBS assesses at each balance sheet date whether there is objective evidence that a financial investment available-for-sale is impaired. In case of such evidence, it is considered impaired if its cost exceeds the recoverable amount. For a quoted financial investment available-for-sale, the recoverable amount is determined by reference to the market price. It is considered impaired if objective evidence indicates that the decline in market price has reached such a level that recovery of the cost value cannot be reasonably expected within the foreseeable future. For non-quoted financial instruments (debt and equity instruments), the recoverable amount is determined by applying recognized valuation techniques. The standard method applied for non-quoted equity investments available-for-sale is based on the multiple of earnings observed in the market for comparable companies. Management may adjust valuations determined in this way based on its judgment. For non-quoted debt instruments, UBS typically determines the recoverable amount by applying the discounted cash flow method.

After the recognition of impairment on a financial investment available-for-sale, a) increases in fair value of equity instruments are reported in Equity and b) increases in fair value of debt instruments up to original cost are recognized in Other income, provided the fair value increase has been triggered by a specific event (as defined by IFRS).

9) Loans and receivables

For an overview of financial assets and financial liabilities accounted for as loans and receivables, refer to the IAS 39 measurement categories presented in Note 28.

Loans include loans originated by the Group where money is provided directly to the borrower, participation in a loan from another lender and purchased loans that are not quoted in an active market and for which no intention of immediate or short-term resale exists. Originated and purchased loans that are intended to be sold in the short term are generally recorded as Trading portfolio assets. Certain purchased non-performing loans are recognized as financial investments available-for-sale.

Loans are recognized when cash is advanced to borrowers. They are initially recorded at fair value, which is the cash given to originate the loan, plus any transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method.

Interest on loans is included in Interest earned on loans and advances and is recognized on an accrual basis. Fees and direct costs relating to loan origination, refinancing or restructuring and to loan commitments are deferred and amortized to Interest earned on loans and advances over the life of the loan using the straight-line method which approximates the effective interest rate method. Fees received for commitments that are not expected to result in a loan are included in Credit-related fees and commissions over the commitment period. Loan syndication fees where UBS does not retain a portion of the syndicated loan are credited to commission income.

Commitments

Letters of credit, guarantees and similar instruments commit UBS to make payments on behalf of third parties under specific circumstances. These instruments, as well as undrawn irrevocable credit facilities, carry credit risk and are included in the exposure to credit risk table, in the audited "Credit risk" section of Risk, Treasury and Capital Management 2007, with their gross maximum exposure to credit risk.

10) Allowance and provision for credit losses

An allowance or provision for credit losses is established if there is objective evidence that the Group will be unable to collect all amounts due on a claim according to the original contractual terms or the equivalent value. A "claim" means a loan or receivable carried at amortized cost, or a commitment such as a letter of credit, a guarantee, a commitment to extend credit or other credit products.

An allowance for credit losses is reported as a reduction of the carrying value of a claim on the balance sheet. For an off-balance sheet item, such as a commitment, a provision for credit loss is reported in Other liabilities. Additions to allowances and provisions for credit losses are made through Credit loss expense.

Allowances and provisions for credit losses are evaluated at a counterparty-specific level and collectively based on the following principles:

Counterparty-specific: A claim is considered impaired when management determines that it is probable that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original contractual terms or the equivalent value.

Individual credit exposures are evaluated based on the borrower's character, overall financial condition, resources and payment record; the prospects for support from any financially responsible guarantors; and, where applicable, the realizable value of any collateral.

The estimated recoverable amount is the present value, using the loan's original effective interest rate, of expected future cash flows, including amounts that may result from restructuring or the liquidation of collateral. Impairment is measured and allowances for credit losses are established for the difference between the carrying amount and the estimated recoverable amount.

Upon impairment, the accrual of interest income based on the original terms of the claim is discontinued, but the increase of the present value of impaired claims due to the passage of time is reported as Interest income.

All impaired claims are generally reviewed and analyzed at least annually. Any subsequent changes to the amounts and timing of the expected future cash flows compared with the prior estimates result in a change in the allowance for credit losses and are charged or credited to Credit loss expense.

An allowance for impairment is reversed only when the credit quality has improved to such an extent that there is reasonable assurance of timely collection of principal and interest in accordance with the original contractual terms of the claim or equivalent value.

A write-off is made when all or part of a claim is deemed uncollectible or forgiven. Write-offs are charged against previously established allowances for credit losses or directly to Credit loss expense and reduce the principal amount of a claim. Recoveries in part or in full of amounts previously written off are credited to Credit loss expense.

A loan is classified as non-performing when the payment of interest, principal or fees is overdue by more than 90 days and there is no firm evidence that it will be made good by later payments or the liquidation of collateral, or when insolvency proceedings have commenced, or when obligations have been restructured on concessionary terms.

Collectively: All loans for which no impairment is identified on a counterparty-specific level are grouped into subportfolios with similar credit risk characteristics to collectively assess whether impairment exists within a portfolio. Allowances from collective assessment of impairment are recognized as Credit loss expense and result in an offset to the aggregated loan position. As the allowance cannot be allocated to individual loans, the loans are not considered to be impaired and interest is accrued on each loan according to its contractual terms.

11) Securitizations

UBS securitizes various financial assets, which generally results in the sale of these assets to special purpose entities, which in turn issue securities to investors. UBS applies the policies set out in part 4) in determining whether the respective special purpose entity must be consolidated and those set out in part 3) in determining whether derecognition of transferred financial assets is appropriate. The following statements mainly apply to financial asset transfers which are considered true sales to non-consolidated entities.

Interests in the securitized financial assets may be retained in the form of senior or subordinated tranches, interest-only strips or other residual interests ("retained interests"). Retained interests are primarily recorded in Trading portfolio assets and carried at fair value. Gains or losses on securitization are recognized in Net trading income, which is generally when the derecognition criteria are satisfied. Typically, the Group seeks to exit its risk in retained interests shortly after close of the securitization. The Group is also an active market maker in these securities and may therefore subsequently reacquire interests in the assets it securitizes. Financial assets purchased with the intention of securitizing them in the future, often referred to as warehousing assets or loans, are generally reflected in Trading portfolio assets, with changes in fair value recognized in net trading income. Synthetic securitization structures typically involve derivative financial instruments for which the principles set out in part 14) apply. Purchased asset-backed securities (ABS), including mortgage-backed securities (MBS), originated by third parties are recognized as financial assets held for trading, or in a minority of cases, as Financial investments available-for-sale.

UBS securitizes residential and commercial mortgage and other assets, acting as lead or co-manager. In addition, UBS acts as warehouse agent, structurer and placement agent in various collateralized debt obligation (CDO) and collateralized loan obligation (CLO), MBS and other ABS securitizations. In such capacity, UBS may purchase collateral on its own behalf or on behalf of customers during the period prior to securitization. UBS typically sells the collateral into designated trusts at the close of the securitization and underwrites the offerings to investors. UBS earns fees for its placement and structuring services. For residential mortgage loan and other securitizations, the investors and the securitization vehicle generally have no recourse to UBS's other assets for failure of loan holders to pay when due.

Consistent with the valuation of similar inventory, fair value of retained tranches or warehousing assets is initially and subsequently determined using market price quotations where available or internal pricing models that utilize variables such as yield curves, prepayment speeds, default rates, loss severity, interest rate volatilities and spreads. The assumptions used for pricing are based on observable transactions in similar securities and are verified by external pricing sources, where available.

12) Securities borrowing and lending

Securities borrowing and securities lending transactions are generally entered into on a collateralized basis. In such transactions, UBS typically lends or borrows securities in exchange for securities or cash collateral. Additionally, UBS borrows securities from its clients' custody accounts in exchange for a fee. The majority of securities lending and borrowing agreements involve shares, and the remainder typically involve bonds and notes. The transactions are conducted under standard agreements employed by financial market participants and are undertaken with counterparties subject to UBS's normal credit risk control processes. UBS monitors the market value of the securities received or delivered on a daily basis and requests or provides additional collateral or returns or recalls surplus collateral in accordance with the underlying agreements.

The securities which have been transferred, whether in a borrowing / lending transaction or as collateral, are not recognized on or derecognized from the balance sheet unless the risks and rewards of ownership are also transferred. In such transactions where UBS transfers owned securities and where the borrower is granted the right to sell or repledge them, the securities are reclassified on the balance sheet from Trading portfolio assets to Trading portfolio assets pledged as collateral. Cash collateral received is recognized with a corresponding obligation to return it (Cash collateral on securities lent). Cash collateral delivered is derecognized with a corresponding receivable reflecting UBS's right to receive it back (Cash collateral on securities borrowed). Securities received in a lending or borrowing transaction are disclosed as off-balance sheet items if UBS has the right to resell or repledge them, with securities that UBS has actually resold or repledged also disclosed separately (see Note 24). Additionally, the sale of securities received in a borrowing or lending transaction triggers the recognition of a trading liability (short sale).

Consideration exchanged in financing transactions (i. e. interest received or paid) is recognized on an accrual basis and recorded as Interest income or Interest expense.

13) Repurchase and reverse repurchase transactions

Securities purchased under agreements to resell (Reverse repurchase agreements) and securities sold under agreements to repurchase (Repurchase agreements) are generally treated as collateralized financing transactions. Nearly all repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements involve debt instruments, such as bonds, notes or money market paper. The transactions are conducted under standard agreements employed by financial market participants and are undertaken with counterparties subject to UBS's normal credit risk control processes. UBS monitors the market value of the securities received or delivered on a daily basis and requests or provides additional collateral or returns or recalls surplus collateral in accordance with the underlying agreements.

In reverse repurchase agreements, the cash delivered is derecognized and a corresponding receivable, including accrued interest, is recorded in the balance sheet line Reverse repurchase agreements, recognizing UBS's right to receive it back. In Repurchase agreements, the cash received, including accrued interest, is recognized on the balance sheet with a corresponding obligation to return it (Repurchase agreements). Securities received under reverse repurchase agreements and securities delivered under repurchase agreements are not recognized on or derecognized from the balance sheet, unless the risks and rewards of ownership are obtained or relinquished. In repurchase agreements where UBS transfers owned securities and where the recipient is granted the right to resell or repledge them, the securities are reclassified in the balance sheet from Trading portfolio assets to Trading portfolio assets pledged as collateral. Securities received in a reverse repurchase agreement are disclosed as off-balance sheet items if UBS has the right to resell or repledge them, with securities that UBS has actually resold or repledged also disclosed separately (see Note 24). Additionally, the sale of securities received in reverse repurchase transactions triggers the recognition of a trading liability (short sale).

Interest earned on reverse repurchase agreements and interest incurred on repurchase agreements is recognized as interest income or interest expense over the life of each agreement.

The Group offsets reverse repurchase agreements and repurchase agreements with the same counterparty, maturity, currency and Central Securities Depository (CSD) for transactions covered by legally enforceable master netting agreements when net or simultaneous settlement is intended.

14) Derivative instruments and hedge accounting

All derivative instruments are carried at fair value on the balance sheet and are reported as Positive replacement values or Negative replacement values. Where the Group enters into derivatives for trading purposes, realized and unrealized gains and losses are recognized in Net trading income.

Credit losses incurred on over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives are also reported in Net trading income.

Hedge accounting

The Group also uses derivative instruments as part of its asset and liability management activities to manage exposures to interest rate, foreign currency and credit risks, including exposures arising from forecast transactions. The Group applies either fair value or cash flow hedge accounting when transactions meet the specified criteria to obtain hedge accounting treatment.

At the time a financial instrument is designated as a hedge, the Group formally documents the relationship between the hedging instrument(s) and hedged item(s), including the risk management objectives and strategy in undertaking the hedge transaction, together with the methods that will be used to assess the effectiveness of the hedging relationship. Accordingly, the Group assesses, both at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, whether the hedging derivatives have been "highly effective" in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged items. UBS regards a hedge as highly effective only if the following criteria are met: a) at inception of the hedge and throughout its life, the hedge is expected to be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows attributable to the hedged risk, and b) actual results of the hedge are within a range of 80% to 125%. In the case of hedging a forecast transaction, the transaction must have a high probability of occurring and must present an exposure to variations in cash flows that could ultimately affect the reported net profit or loss. The Group discontinues hedge accounting when it determines that a derivative is not, or has ceased to be, highly effective as a hedge; when the derivative expires or is sold, terminated or exercised; when the hedged item matures, is sold or repaid; or when a forecast transaction is no longer deemed highly probable.

Hedge ineffectiveness represents the amount by which the changes in the fair value of the hedging derivative differ from changes in the fair value of the hedged item or the amount by which changes in the present value of cash flows of the hedging derivative differ from changes (or expected changes) in the present value of cash flows of the hedged item. Such ineffectiveness is recorded in current period earnings in Net trading income, as are gains and losses on components of a hedging derivative that are excluded from assessing hedge effectiveness.

Fair value hedges

For qualifying fair value hedges, the change in fair value of the hedging derivative is recognized in the income statement. Those changes in fair value of the hedged item that are attributable to the risks hedged with the derivative instrument are reflected in an adjustment to the carrying value of the hedged item, which is also recognized in the income statement. The fair value change of the hedged item in a portfolio hedge of interest rate risks is reported separately from the hedged portfolio in Other assets or Other liabilities as appropriate. If the hedge relationship is terminated for reasons other than the derecognition of the hedged item, the difference between the carrying value of the hedged item at that point and the value at which it would have been carried had the hedge never existed (the "unamortized fair value adjustment") is, in the case of interest-bearing instruments, amortized to the income statement over the remaining term of the original hedge, while for non-interest-bearing instruments that amount is immediately recognized in earnings. If the hedged item is derecognized, e. g. due to sale or repayment, the unamortized fair value adjustment is recognized immediately in the income statement.

Cash flow hedges

A fair value gain or loss associated with the effective portion of a derivative designated as a cash flow hedge is recognized initially in Equity. When the cash flows that the derivative is hedging materialize, resulting in income or expense, then the associated gain or loss on the hedging derivative is simultaneously transferred from Equity to the corresponding income or expense line item.

If a cash flow hedge for a forecast transaction is deemed to be no longer effective, or if the hedge relationship is terminated, the cumulative gain or loss on the hedging derivative previously reported in Equity remains there until the committed or forecast transaction occurs or is no longer expected to occur, at which point it is transferred to the income statement.

Economic hedges which do not qualify for hedge accounting

Derivative instruments which are transacted as economic hedges but do not qualify for hedge accounting are treated in the same way as derivative instruments used for trading purposes, i. e. realized and unrealized gains and losses are recognized in Net trading income except that, in certain cases, the forward points on short duration foreign exchange contracts are reported in Net interest income. Additionally, the Group has entered into economic hedges of credit risk within the loan portfolio using credit default swaps to which it cannot apply hedge accounting. In the event that the Group recognizes an impairment on a loan that is economically hedged in this way, the impairment is recognized in Credit loss expense, whereas any gain on the credit default swap is recorded in Net trading income. See Note 23 for additional information. Where UBS designates an economically hedged item at fair value through profit or loss, all fair value changes, including impairments, on both the hedged item and the hedging instrument are reflected in Net trading income (refer to part 7)). Credit losses incurred on over- the-counter (OTC) derivatives are reported in Net trading income.

Embedded derivatives

A derivative may be embedded in a "host contract". Such combinations are known as hybrid instruments and arise predominantly from the issuance of certain structured debt instruments. If the host contract is not carried at fair value with changes in fair value reported in the income statement, the embedded derivative is generally required to be separated from the host contract and accounted for as a standalone derivative instrument at fair value through profit or loss if the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative are not closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract and the embedded derivative actually meets the definition of a derivative. Bifurcated embedded derivatives are presented on the same balance sheet line as the host contract, and are shown in Note 28 in the "Held for trading" category, reflecting the measurement and recognition principles applied.

Typically, UBS applies the fair value option to hybrid instruments (see part 7)), in which case bifurcation of an embedded derivative component is not required.

15) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of Cash and balances with central banks, balances included in Due from banks with original maturity of less than three months, and Money market paper included in Trading portfolio assets and Financial investments available-for-sale.

16) Physical commodities

Physical commodities (precious metals, base metals, energy and other commodities) held by UBS as a result of its broker-trader activities are accounted for at fair value less costs to sell and presented within the Trading portfolio. Changes in fair value less costs to sell are reflected in Net trading income.

17) Property and equipment

Property and equipment includes own-used properties, investment properties, leasehold improvements, IT, software and communication, plant and manufacturing equipment, and other machines and equipment.

With the exception of investment properties, Property and equipment is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, and is periodically reviewed for impairment. The useful life of property and equipment is estimated on the basis of the economic utilization of the asset.

Classification for own-used property

Own-used property is defined as property held by the Group for use in the supply of services or for administrative purposes, whereas investment property is defined as property held to earn rental income and / or for capital appreciation. If a property of the Group includes a portion that is own-used and another portion that is held to earn rental income or for capital appreciation, the classification is based on whether or not these portions can be sold separately. If the portions of the property can be sold separately, they are separately accounted for as own-used property and investment property. If the portions cannot be sold separately, the whole property is classified as own-used property unless the portion used by the Group is minor. The classification of property is reviewed on a regular basis to account for major changes in its usage.

Leasehold improvements

Leasehold improvements are investments made to customize buildings and offices occupied under operating lease contracts to make them suitable for the intended purpose. The present value of estimated reinstatement costs to bring a leased property into its original condition at the end of the lease, if required, is capitalized as part of the total leasehold improvements costs. At the same time, a corresponding liability is recognized to reflect the obligation incurred. Reinstatement costs are recognized in profit and loss through depreciation of the capitalized leasehold improvements over their estimated useful life.

Software

Software development costs are capitalized when they meet certain criteria relating to identifiability, it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the enterprise, and the cost can be measured reliably. Internally developed software meeting these criteria and purchased software are classified within IT, software and communication.

Property and equipment is depreciated on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life as follows:

Property held for sale

Non-current property formerly own-used or leased to third parties under an operating lease and equipment the Group has decided to sell are classified as non-current assets held for sale and recorded in Other assets. Upon classification as held for sale, they are no longer depreciated and are carried at the lower of book value or fair value less costs to sell. Foreclosed properties and other properties classified as current assets are included in Properties held for sale and recorded in Other assets. They are carried at the lower of cost and net realizable value.

Investment property

Investment property is carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in the income statement in the period of change. UBS employs internal real estate experts to determine the fair value of investment property by applying recognized valuation techniques. In cases where prices of recent market transactions of comparable properties are available, fair value is determined by reference to these transactions.

18) Goodwill and intangible assets

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group's share of net identifiable assets of the acquired entity at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is not amortized; it is tested yearly for impairment, and, additionally, when a reasonable indication of impairment exists. The impairment test is conducted at the segment level as reported in Note 2a. The segment has been determined as the cash generating unit for impairment testing purposes as this is the level at which the performance of investments is reviewed and assessed by management. Refer to Note 16 for details.

Intangible assets comprise separately identifiable intangible items arising from acquisitions and certain purchased trademarks and similar items. Intangible assets acquired in business combinations are recognized on the balance sheet with their fair value at the date of acquisition and, if they have a definite useful life, are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful economic life, generally not exceeding 20 years. Almost all identified intangible assets of UBS have a definite useful life. At each balance sheet date, intangible assets are reviewed for indications of impairment or changes in estimated future benefits. If such indications exist, the intangible assets are analyzed to assess whether their carrying amount is fully recoverable. A write-down is made if the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount.

Intangible assets are classified into two categories: a) infrastructure, and b) customer relationships, contractual rights and other. Infrastructure consists of an intangible asset recognized in connection with the acquisition of PaineWebber Group, Inc. Customer relationships, contractual rights and other includes mainly intangible assets for client relationships, non-compete agreements, favorable contracts, proprietary software, trademarks and trade names acquired in business combinations.

19) Income taxes

Income tax payable on profits is recognized as an expense based on the applicable tax laws in each jurisdiction in the period in which profits arise. The tax effects of income tax losses available for carry forward are recognized as a deferred tax asset if it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which those losses can be utilized.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the balance sheet and their amounts as measured for tax purposes, which will result in taxable amounts in future periods. Deferred tax assets are recognized for temporary differences that will result in deductible amounts in future periods, but only to the extent it is probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available against which these differences can be utilized.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period in which the asset will be realized or the liability will be settled based on enacted rates.

Tax assets and liabilities of the same type (current or deferred) are offset when they arise from the same tax reporting group, they relate to the same tax authority, the legal right to offset exists, and they are intended to be settled net or realized simultaneously.

Current and deferred taxes are recognized as income tax benefit or expense except for current and deferred taxes recognized (i) upon the acquisition of a subsidiary, (ii) for unrealized gains or losses on financial investments available- for-sale, for changes in fair value of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, for certain foreign currency translations of foreign operations, (iii) for certain tax benefits on deferred compensation awards, and (iv) for gains and losses on the sale of treasury shares. Deferred taxes recognized in a business combination (item (i)) are considered when determining goodwill. Items (ii), (iii) and (iv) are recorded in Net income recognized directly in equity.

20) Debt issued

Debt issued is initially measured at fair value, which is the consideration received, net of transaction costs incurred. Subsequent measurement is at amortized cost, using the effective interest rate method to amortize cost at inception to the redemption value over the life of the debt. Refer to Note 28.

Hybrid debt instruments that are related to non-UBS AG equity instruments, foreign exchange, credit instruments or indices are considered structured instruments. If such instruments have not been designated at fair value through profit or loss, the embedded derivative is separated from the host contract and accounted for as a standalone derivative if the criteria for separation are met. The host contract is subsequently measured at amortized cost. UBS has designated most of its structured debt instruments at fair value through profit or loss – see part 7). The fair value option is not applied to certain hybrid instruments which contain bifurcatable embedded derivatives with references to foreign exchange rates and precious metal prices and which are not hedged by derivative instruments. Those hybrids are still subject to bifurcation of the embedded derivative.

Debt instruments with embedded derivatives that are related to UBS AG shares or to a derivative instrument that has UBS AG shares as its underlying are separated into a liability and an equity component at issue date if they require physical settlement. When the hybrid debt instrument is issued, a portion of the net proceeds is allocated to the debt component based on its fair value. The determination of fair value is generally based on quoted market prices for UBS debt instruments with comparable terms. The debt component is subsequently measured at amortized cost. The remaining amount of the net proceeds is allocated to the equity component and reported in Share premium. Subsequent changes in fair value of the separated equity component are not recognized. However, if the hybrid instrument or the embedded derivative related to UBS AG shares is to be cash settled or if it contains a settlement alternative, then the separated derivative is accounted for as a freestanding derivative, with changes in fair value recorded in Net trading income unless the entire hybrid debt instrument is designated at fair value through profit or loss (refer to part 7)).

It is the Group's policy to hedge the fixed interest rate risk on debt issues (except for certain subordinated long-term note issues), and to apply fair value hedge accounting, if the fair value option is not applied to such financial instruments – see part 7). When hedge accounting is applied to fixed-rate debt instruments, the carrying values of debt issues are adjusted for changes in fair value related to the hedged exposure rather than carried at amortized cost – refer to part 14) for further discussion.

Bonds issued by UBS held as a result of market making activities or deliberate purchases in the market are treated as redemption of debt. A gain or loss on redemption is recorded depending on whether the repurchase price of the bond is lower or higher than its carrying value. A subsequent sale of own bonds in the market is treated as a reissuance of debt.

Interest expense on debt instruments is included in Interest on debt issued.

21) Retirement benefits

UBS sponsors a number of retirement benefit plans for its employees worldwide. These plans include both defined benefit and defined contribution plans and various other retirement benefits such as post-employment medical benefits. Contributions to defined contribution plans are expensed when employees have rendered services in exchange for such contributions, generally in the year of contribution.

The Group uses the projected unit credit actuarial method to determine the present value of its defined benefit plans and the related service cost and, where applicable, past service cost.

The principal actuarial assumptions used by the actuary are set out in Note 29.

The Group recognizes a portion of its actuarial gains and losses as income or expense if the net cumulative unrecognized actuarial gains and losses at the end of the previous reporting period are outside the corridor defined as the greater of:

The unrecognized actuarial gains and losses exceeding the greater of these two values are recognized in the income statement over the expected average remaining working lives of the employees participating in the plans.

If an excess of the fair value of the plan assets over the present value of the defined benefit obligation cannot be recovered fully through refunds or reductions in future contributions, no gain is recognized solely as a result of deferral of an actuarial loss or past service cost in the current period, and no loss is recognized solely as a result of deferral of an actuarial gain in the current period.

22) Equity participation plans

UBS provides various equity participation plans in the form of share plans and share option plans. UBS recognizes the fair value of share and share option awards determined at the date of grant as compensation expense over the required service period, which generally is equal to the vesting period. The fair value of share awards is equal to the average UBS share price at the date of grant. For share option awards, fair value is determined using a Monte Carlo valuation model which takes into account the specific terms and conditions under which the share options are granted. Equity settled awards are classified as equity instruments and are not remeasured subsequent to the grant date, unless an award is modified such that its fair value immediately after modification exceeds its fair value immediately prior to modification. Any increase in fair value resulting from a modification is recognized as compensation expense, either over the remaining service period or immediately for vested awards.

Cash settled awards are classified as liabilities and remeasured to fair value at each balance sheet date as long as they are outstanding. Decreases in fair value reduce compensation expense, and no compensation expense, on a cumulative basis, is recognized for awards that expire worthless or remain unexercised.

23) Amounts due under unit-linked investment contracts

UBS Global Asset Management's financial liabilities from unit-linked contracts are presented as Other Liabilities (refer to Note 20) on the balance sheet. These contracts allow investors to invest in a pool of assets through investment units issued by a UBS subsidiary. The unit holders receive all rewards and bear all risks associated with the reference asset pool. The financial liability represents the amount due to unit holders and is equal to the fair value of the reference asset pool.

24) Provisions

Provisions are recognized when UBS has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, and it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. Provisions are reflected under Other liabilities on the balance sheet. Refer to Note 21.

The majority of UBS's provisions relate to operational risks, including litigation. When a provision is recognized, its amount needs to be estimated as the exact amount of the obligation is generally unknown. The estimate is based on all available information and reflects the amount that has the highest probability of being paid. UBS revises existing provisions up or down as soon as it is able to quantify the amounts more accurately.

25) Equity, treasury shares and contracts on UBS shares

UBS AG shares held

UBS AG shares held by the Group are classified in Equity as Treasury shares and accounted for at weighted average cost. The difference between the proceeds from sales of Treasury shares and their cost (net of tax, if any) is classified as Share premium.

Contracts with gross physical settlement

Contracts that require gross physical settlement in UBS AG shares are classified as Equity (provided a fixed amount of shares is exchanged against a fixed amount of cash) and reported as Share premium. Upon settlement of such contracts, the proceeds received – less cost (net of tax, if any) – are reported as Share premium.

Contracts with net cash settlement or settlement option for counterparty

Contracts on UBS AG shares that require net cash settlement or provide the counterparty with a choice of settlement are generally classified as trading instruments, with changes in fair value reported in the income statement.

Physically settled written put options and forward share purchase contracts

Exceptions to the accounting treatments described on this and previous page are physically settled written put options and forward share purchase contracts, including contracts where physical settlement is a settlement alternative. In both cases, the present value of the obligation to purchase own shares in exchange for cash is transferred out of Equity and recognized as a liability at inception of a contract. The liability is subsequently accreted, using the effective interest rate method, over the life of the contract to the nominal purchase obligation by recognizing interest expense. Upon settlement of a contract, the liability is derecognized, and the amount of equity originally transferred to liability is reclassified within Equity to Treasury shares. The premium received for writing put options is recognized directly in Share premium.

Minority interests

Net profit and Equity are presented including minority interests. Net profit is split into Net profit attributable to UBS shareholders and Net profit attributable to minority interests.

Trust preferred securities issued

UBS has issued trust preferred securities through consolidated preferred funding trusts which hold debt issued by UBS. UBS AG has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of these securities. UBS's obligations under these guarantees are subordinated to the prior payment in full of the deposit liabilities of UBS and all other liabilities of UBS. The trust preferred securities represent equity instruments which are owned by third parties. They are presented as minority interests in UBS's consolidated financial statements with dividends paid also reported under Equity attributable to minority interests. UBS bonds held by preferred funding trusts are eliminated in consolidation.

26) Discontinued operations and non-current assets held for sale

UBS classifies individual non-current non-financial assets and disposal groups as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use – see part 17). Such assets or disposal groups are available for immediate sale in their present condition subject to terms that are usual and customary for sales of such assets or disposal groups and their sale is considered highly probable. These assets (and liabilities in the case of disposal groups) are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell and presented in Other assets and Other liabilities (see Notes 17 and 20). Netting of assets and liabilities is not permitted.

UBS presents discontinued operations in a separate line in the income statement if an entity or a component of an entity has been disposed of or is classified as held for sale and a) represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations, or b) is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale (e. g. certain private equity investments). Net profit from discontinued operations includes the total of operating profit from discontinued operations and the gain or loss recognized on sale or measurement to fair value less costs to sell of the net assets constituting the discontinued operations. A component of an entity comprises operations and cash flows that can be clearly distinguished, operationally and for financial reporting purposes, from the rest of UBS's operations and cash flows. If an entity or a component of an entity is classified as a discontinued operation, UBS restates prior periods in the income statement – see part 3). Refer to Note 36 for details.

27) Leasing

UBS enters into lease contracts, predominately of premises and equipment, as a lessor as well as a lessee. The terms and conditions of these contracts are assessed and the leases are classified as operating leases or finance leases according to their economic substance. When making such an assessment, the Group focuses on the following aspects: a) transfer of ownership of the asset to the lessee at the end of the lease term; b) existence of a bargain purchase option held by the lessee; c) whether the lease term is for the major part of the economic life of the asset; d) Whether the present value of the minimum lease payments is substantially equal to the fair value of the leased asset at inception of the lease term. If one or more of the these conditions is met, the lease is generally classified as a finance lease, while the non-existence of such conditions normally leads to a classification as an operating lease.

Lease contracts classified as operating leases where UBS is the lessee are disclosed in Note 25 Operating Lease Commitments. These contracts include non-cancellable long-term leases of office buildings in most UBS locations. Lease contracts classified as operating leases where UBS is the lessor, and finance lease contracts where UBS is the lessor or the lessee, are not material. Contractual arrangements which are not considered leases in their entirety but which include lease elements are not material to UBS.

28) Fee income

UBS earns fee income from a diverse range of services it provides to its customers. Fee income can be divided into two broad categories: income earned from services that are provided over a certain period of time, for which customers are generally billed on an annual or semi-annual basis, and income earned from providing transaction-type services. Fees earned from services that are provided over a certain period of time are recognized ratably over the service period. Fees earned from providing transaction-type services are recognized when the service has been completed. Performance-linked fees or fee components are recognized when the recognition criteria are fulfilled.

The following fee income is predominantly earned from services that are provided over a period of time: investment fund fees, fiduciary fees, custodian fees, portfolio and other management and advisory fees, insurance-related fees, credit-related fees and commission income. Fees predominantly earned from providing transaction-type services include underwriting fees, corporate finance fees and brokerage fees.

29) Foreign currency translation

Foreign currency transactions are recorded at the rate of exchange on the date of the transaction. At the balance sheet date, monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are reported using the closing exchange rate. Exchange differences arising on the settlement of transactions at rates different from those at the date of the transaction, as well as unrealized foreign exchange differences on unsettled foreign currency monetary assets and liabilities, are recognized in the income statement.

Unrealized exchange differences on non-monetary financial assets (investments in equity instruments) are a component of the change in their entire fair value. For a non-monetary financial asset held for trading and for non-monetary financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss, unrealized exchange differences are recognized in the income statement. For non-monetary financial investments available-for-sale, unrealized exchange differences are recorded directly in Equity until the asset is sold or becomes impaired.

When preparing consolidated financial statements, assets and liabilities of foreign entities are translated at the exchange rates at the balance sheet date, while income and expense items are translated at weighted average rates for the period. Differences resulting from the use of closing and weighted average exchange rates and from revaluing a foreign entity's net asset balance at the closing rate are recognized directly in Foreign currency translation within Equity.

30) Earnings per share (EPS)

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the net profit or loss for the period attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period.

Diluted earnings per share are calculated using the same method as for basic EPS, but the determinants are adjusted to reflect the potential dilution that could occur if options, warrants, convertible debt securities or other contracts to issue ordinary shares were converted or exercised into ordinary shares.

31) Segment reporting

UBS's financial businesses are organized on a worldwide basis into three Business Groups and the Corporate Center. Global Wealth Management & Business Banking consists of three segments: Wealth Management International & Switzerland, Wealth Management US and Business Banking Switzerland. The Business Groups Investment Bank and Global Asset Management constitute one segment each. The Industrial Holdings segment holds all industrial operations controlled by the Group. In total, UBS reports six business segments in 2007. Corporate Center includes all corporate functions and elimination items, and is not considered a business segment.

Segment income, segment expenses and segment performance include transfers between reportable segments. Such transfers are conducted either at internally agreed transfer prices or, where possible, at arm's length.

32) Revenues from Industrial Holdings and Goods and materials purchased

Revenues from Industrial Holdings include sales of goods and services from one consolidated entity. Revenue is generally recognized upon customer acceptance of goods delivered and when services have been rendered. Expenses from Goods and materials purchased include costs for raw materials, parts and finished goods purchased from third-party suppliers to produce the goods and services sold.

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b) Changes in accounting policies, comparability and other adjustments

Effective in 2007

IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures

On 1 January 2007, UBS adopted the disclosure requirements for financial instruments under IFRS 7. The new standard has no impact on recognition, measurement and presentation of financial instruments. Accordingly, the first-time adoption of IFRS 7 had no effect on Net profit and Equity. Rather, it requires UBS to provide disclosures in its financial statements that enable users to evaluate: a) the significance of financial instruments for the entity's financial position and performance (refer to the notes to the Financial Statements), and b) the nature and extent of credit, market and liquidity risks arising from financial instruments (including details about concentrations of such risks) during the period and at the reporting date, and how UBS manages those risks (refer to the audited sections in Risk, Treasury and Capital Management 2007). The disclosure principles of IFRS 7 complement the principles for recognizing, measuring and presenting financial assets and financial liabilities in IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement.

Netting

In second quarter 2007, UBS concluded that it meets the criteria to offset Positive and Negative replacement values of OTC interest rate swaps transacted with London Clearing House (LCH). Under IFRS, positions are netted by currency and across maturities. The amount of replacement values netted was CHF 35,470 million at 31 December 2006. Furthermore, amounts included in Loans and Due to customers related to the Prime Brokerage business have been netted. At 31 December 2006, amounts netted were CHF 14,679 million. In both cases, the application of netting had no impact on UBS's income statement, Earnings per share, credit exposure and regulatory capital.

Syndicated finance revenues

In fourth quarter 2007, UBS revised the presentation of certain syndicated finance revenues in its income statement. Revenues which relate to syndicated loan commitments designated at fair value through profit or loss are now presented in Net trading income rather than as Debt underwriting fees in Net fee and commission income. Prior periods have been adjusted to conform to this presentation. The adjustments resulted in a reduction of Net fee and commission income of CHF 425 million and CHF 252 million for 2006 and 2005 respectively and a corresponding increase in Net trading income in these periods. The change in presentation had no impact on UBS's Net profit and Earnings per share for all periods presented.

The adoption of the following new interpretations on 1 January 2007 had no material impact on UBS's Financial Statements:

IFRIC 7 Applying the Restatement Approach under IAS 29 Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies

This Interpretation provides guidance on how to apply the requirements of IAS 29 in a reporting period in which an entity (this could be a subsidiary) identifies the existence of hyperinflation in the economy of its functional currency, when that economy was not hyperinflationary in the prior period, and the entity therefore restates its financial statements in accordance with IAS 29. UBS has no subsidiaries operating in a hyperinflationary economy.

IFRIC 8 Scope of IFRS 2

This IFRIC addresses whether IFRS 2 applies to transactions in which the entity cannot identify specifically some or all of the goods or services received. The Interpretation requires that IFRS 2 be applied to transactions in which goods or services are received, such as transactions in which an entity receives goods or services as consideration for equity instruments of the entity. This includes transactions in which the entity cannot identify specifically some or all of the goods or services received. The unidentifiable goods or services received (or to be received) should be measured as the difference between the fair value of the share-based payment and the fair value of any identifiable goods or services received (or to be received). Measurement of the unidentifiable goods or services received should take place at the grant date. However, for cash-settled transactions, the liability should be remeasured at each reporting date until it is settled.

IFRIC 9 Reassessment of Embedded Derivatives

The Interpretation clarifies that an entity should not reassess whether an embedded derivative needs to be separated from the host contract after the initial hybrid contract is recognized, unless there is a change in the terms of the contract that significantly modifies the cash flows that otherwise would be required under the contract, in which case reassessment is required.

IFRIC 10 Interim Financial Reporting and Impairment

The new Interpretation of IAS 39 requires that impairment losses recognized in a previous interim period in respect of goodwill or an investment in either an equity instrument or a financial asset carried at cost must not be reversed at a subsequent balance sheet date.

IFRIC 11 IFRS 2: Group and Treasury Share Transactions

IFRIC 11 provides guidance on (a) how to account for share-based payment arrangements between entities within the same group; (b) determining whether a transaction should be accounted for as equity-settled or cash-settled when an entity either chooses or is required to buy equity instruments (i. e. treasury shares) from another party, to satisfy its obligations to its employees; and (c) determining whether a transaction should be accounted for as equity-settled or cash-settled when an entity's employees are granted rights to equity instruments of the entity (e. g. share options), either by the entity itself or by its shareholders, and the shareholders of the entity provide the equity instruments needed. The Interpretation requires that share-based payment transactions in which an entity receives services as consideration for its own equity instruments be accounted for as an equity-settled transaction. This applies regardless of whether the entity chooses or is required to buy those equity instruments from another party to satisfy its obligations to its employees under the share-based payment arrangement.

Effective in 2006 and earlier

IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement – Amendment to the Fair Value Option

UBS adopted the revised IAS 39 fair value option on 1 January 2006. Under the amended guidance, the use of the fair value option requires that at least one of three defined criteria is satisfied, which is more restrictive than the previous guidance. All financial instruments designated at fair value through profit or loss at 31 December 2005 continued to qualify for the use of the fair value option under the revised fair value option. On the transition date of the revised standard, 1 January 2006, UBS did not apply the fair value option to any previously recognized financial asset or financial liability for which the fair value option had not been used under the previous fair value option guidance. Therefore, the initial adoption of the revised standard did not have an impact on UBS's Financial Statements. See part 7) for details on the use of the revised fair value option during 2006 and 2007. In addition, effective 1 January 2006, the disclosure requirements for financial instruments designated at fair value through profit or loss (refer to Notes 12 and 19) have been amended due to the revision of IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation.

Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) 108

In response to the release of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) 108, Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements, UBS elected to adopt a modified quantitative framework for assessing whether the financial statement effect of a misstatement is material because it renders a better evaluation of those effects. This method, which UBS adopted in December 2006, uses a dual approach for quantifying the effect of a misstatement. Prior to 2006, UBS applied only one of those methods, the "roll-over" method, which focused on the current year income-statement impact of a misstatement. Under this policy, UBS applies a dual approach that considers both the carryover and reversing effects of prior year misstatements. As a result of this policy, the opening balance of Accrued expenses and deferred income at 1 January 2002 was increased by CHF 399 million, Retained earnings were reduced by CHF 309 million and Deferred taxes of CHF 90 million were recog- nized on the balance sheet. The adjustments relate to the under-accrual of unused vacation, sabbatical leave and service anniversary awards. The restatement impact of adopting this policy was immaterial to all quarterly and annual income statements, earnings per share amounts, and balance sheets since 1 January 2002.

Private equity investments

On 1 January 2005, UBS adopted revised IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements and revised IAS 28 Investments in Associates. IAS 27 was amended to eliminate the exemption from consolidating a subsidiary where control is exercised temporarily. UBS has several private equity investments where it owns a controlling interest that used to be classified and accounted for as Financial investments available-for-sale.

IAS 28 was likewise amended to eliminate the exemption from equity method accounting for investments that are held exclusively for disposal. Private equity investments where UBS has significant influence are now accounted for using the equity method whereas they were previously classified as Financial investments available-for-sale.

IFRS 2 Share-based Payment

UBS adopted IFRS 2 Share-based Payment on 1 January 2005 and fully restated the two comparative prior years. IFRS 2 requires share-based payments made to employees and non-employees to be recognized in the financial statements based on the fair value of these awards measured at the date of grant.

UBS introduced a new valuation model to determine the fair value of share options granted in 2005 and later. Share options granted in 2004 and earlier were not affected by this change in valuation model. As part of the implementation of IFRS 2, UBS thoroughly reviewed the option valuation model employed in the past by comparing it with alternative models. As a result of this review, a valuation model was identified that better reflects the exercise behavior of employees and the specific terms and conditions under which the share options are granted. Concurrent with the introduction of the new model, UBS is using implied and historical volatility as inputs.

UBS also has employee benefit trusts that are used in connection with share-based payment arrangements and deferred compensation schemes. In connection with the issuance of IFRS 2, the IFRIC amended SIC 12 Consolidation – Special Purpose Entities, an interpretation of IAS 27, to eliminate the scope exclusion for equity compensation plans. Therefore, pursuant to the criteria set out in SIC 12, an entity that controls an employee benefit trust (or similar entity) set up for the purpose of a share-based payment arrangement is required to consolidate that trust.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

On 31 March 2004, the IASB issued IFRS 3 Business Combinations, revised IAS 36 Impairment of Assets and revised IAS 38 Intangible Assets. UBS prospectively adopted the standards for goodwill and intangible assets existing at 31 March 2004 on 1 January 2005, whereas goodwill and intangible assets recognized from business combinations entered into after 31 March 2004 were accounted for immediately in accordance with IFRS 3. Refer to a18) for details.

Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations

UBS adopted IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations on 1 January 2005. Refer to a26) for details.

Presentation of minority interests and earnings per share

With the adoption of revised IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements on 1 January 2005, Net profit and Equity were presented including minority interests. Refer to a3) and a25) for details.

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c) International Financial Reporting Standards and Interpretations to be adopted in 2008 and later

IFRS 2 Share-based Payment

In January 2008, the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) issued an amendment to IFRS 2 Share-based Payment. The amended standard, entitled IFRS 2 Share-based Payment: Vesting Conditions and Cancellations, is effective 1 January 2009 (early adoption permitted). The new standard clarifies the definition of vesting conditions and the accounting treatment of cancellations. UBS has early adopted this amended standard as of 1 January 2008. Under the amended standard, UBS is required to distinguish between vesting conditions (such as service and performance conditions) and non-vesting conditions. The amended standard no longer considers vesting conditions to include certain non-compete provisions and transfer restrictions. Prior to adopting this amendment, UBS treated non-compete provisions as vesting conditions. The impact of this change will be that, from 1 January 2008, most of UBS's share and certain option awards will be expensed in the performance year rather than over the period through which the non-compete conditions are applicable. Restrictions remaining effective after the employee becomes entitled to the share-based award will be considered when determining grant date fair value. Following adoption of this amendment, UBS will fully restate the two comparative prior years (2006 and 2007).

The effect of the restatement on the opening balance at 1 January 2006 will be as follows: reduction of retained earnings by approximately CHF 2.2 billion, increase of share premium by approximately CHF 2.3 billion, increase of liabilities (including deferred tax liabilities) by approximately CHF 0.3 billion, and increase of deferred tax assets by approximately CHF 0.4 billion. Additional compensation expense of approximately CHF 800 million and approximately CHF 500 million will be recognized in 2007 and 2006, respectively. The additional compensation expense is attributable to the acceleration of expense related to share-based awards which contain non-compete provisions and transfer restrictions that no longer qualify as vesting conditions under the Standard. The additional compensation expense of approximately CHF 800 million for 2007 includes awards granted in 2008 for the performance year 2007.

IFRS 8 Operating Segments

The new standard on segment reporting, IFRS 8 Operating Segments, comes into force on 1 January 2009, replacing IAS 14 Segment Reporting. It sets out requirements for disclosure of information about a firm's operating segments, its products and services, the geographical areas in which it operates, and its major customers. The new standard introduces changes to previous requirements for identification of segments, measurement of segment information and disclosures. Specifically, it requires a firm to provide financial and descriptive information about its reportable segments – the operating segments or aggregations of operating segments based on which the senior management of the firm (the "chief operating decision maker") regularly evaluates separate financial information in deciding how to allocate resources and how to assess performance. Generally, under IFRS 8, the information to be reported will be the same information that is used internally, which might differ from amounts reported in the financial statements. The new standard therefore requires an explanation of the basis on which the segment information is prepared, and reconciliations to the amounts presented in the income statement and the balance sheet. UBS is currently assessing the impact of IFRS 8 on the structure and content of the segment reporting in its Financial Statements.

IAS 1 (revised) Presentation of Financial Statements and IAS 32 (revised) Financial Instruments: Presentation

IAS 1 (revised), Presentation of Financial Statements, was issued in September 2007 and is effective on 1 January 2009. The revised standard affects the presentation of owner changes in equity and of comprehensive income: UBS will continue presenting owner changes in equity in the statement of changes in equity, but the detailed information related to non-owner changes in equity will be removed from the statement of changes in equity and presented in the statement of comprehensive income. The revised standard does not change the recognition, measurement or disclosure of specific transactions addressed in other IFRSs. The amended requirements will have an impact on the presentation and disclosure of the items in UBS's Financial Statements.

In addition, the IASB issued a further amendment to IAS 1 and an amendment to IAS 32 regarding puttable financial instruments and obligations arising on liquidation in February 2008. The IAS 32 amendment clarifies under which circumstances puttable financial instruments and obligations arising on liquidations have to be treated as equity instruments. The amendment is limited in scope and is restricted to the accounting for such instruments under IAS 1, IAS 32, IAS 39 and IFRS 7. The amendment to IAS 1 requires additional information about puttable financial instruments and obligations arising on liquidations which have to be treated as equity instruments. UBS will adopt the two amendments on 1 January 2009. It is not expected that these amendments will have a significant impact on UBS's Financial Statements.

IFRS 3 Business Combinations and IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements

In January 2008, the IASB issued a revised Standard of IFRS 3 Business Combinations and amendments to IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements. The most significant changes under revised IFRS 3 are as follows:

– Contingent consideration will be recognized at fair value as part of the consideration transferred at the acquisition date. Currently contingent consideration is only recognized once it meets the probability and reliably measurable criteria.

– Non-controlling interests in an acquiree will either be measured at fair value or as the non-controlling interest's proportionate share of the fair value of net identifiable assets of the entity acquired. The option is available on a transaction-by-transaction basis.

– Transaction costs incurred by the acquirer will no longer be part of the acquisition cost but have to be expensed as incurred.

The revised IFRS 3 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009 and has to be applied prospectively from the date of adoption to business combinations consummated after that date. Business combinations consummated prior to that date will not be impacted.

The amendments to IAS 27 reflect changes in the accounting for non-controlling interests and deal primarily with the accounting for changes in ownership interests in subsidiaries after control is obtained, the accounting for the loss of control over subsidiaries, and the allocation of profit or loss to controlling and non-controlling interests in a subsidiary. IAS 27 requires that certain amendments be applied retrospectively whereas others are applied prospectively. UBS is currently assessing the impact of restating certain amendments of the Standard.

The revised IFRS 3 and the amendments to IAS 27 are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009 and must be adopted together. UBS is currently assessing whether it will adopt IFRS 3 and the amendments to IAS 27 from 1 July 2009 or earlier as permitted by the Standards.

IFRIC 13 Customer Loyalty Programmes

IFRIC 13 was issued on 28 June 2007 and is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2008. IFRIC 13 addresses how companies that grant their customers loyalty award credits when buying goods or services should account for their obligation to provide free or discounted goods and services, if and when the customers redeem the points. IFRIC 13 requires entities to allocate some of the proceeds of the initial sale to the award credits and recognize these proceeds as revenue only when they have fulfilled their obligations to provide goods or services. UBS is currently assessing the impact of this interpretation on its Financial Statements.

IFRIC 14 The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset Minimum Funding Requirements and their Interaction – IAS 19

IFRIC 14 was issued on 5 July 2007 and is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2008. IFRIC 14 provides guidance regarding the circumstances under which refunds and future reductions in contributions from a defined benefit plan can be regarded as available to an entity for the purpose recognizing a net defined benefit asset. Additionally, in jurisdictions where there is both a minimum funding requirement and restrictions over the amounts that companies can recover from the plan, either as refunds or reductions in contributions, additional liabilities may need to be recognized. UBS is currently assessing the impact of this interpretation on its Financial Statements.