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Significant Accounting Policies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Significant Accounting Policies
2. Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned and non-wholly owned subsidiaries in which the Company has a controlling financial interest either through voting rights or means other than voting rights. They include the accounts of RB Global, Inc. and its subsidiaries from their respective dates of formation, acquisition or control. All significant
inter-company transactions and balances have been eliminated. Where the Company’s ownership interest in a consolidated subsidiary is less than 100%, the non-controlling interests’ share of these non-wholly owned subsidiaries is reported in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as a separate component of equity or within temporary equity. The non-controlling interests’ share of the net income of these non-wholly owned subsidiaries is reported in the Company’s consolidated income statements as a deduction from the Company’s net income to arrive at net income attributable to controlling interests of the Company.
Revenue Recognition
Revenues are comprised of:
Service revenue, including the following:
(i)Revenue from commissions earned when the Company sells consigned assets at live and online bidding auctions or online marketplaces, and from private brokerage services where the Company acts as an agent for consignors of assets; and
(ii)Revenue from buyer fees earned on the purchase of consigned assets or inventory at live and online bidding auctions or online marketplaces, and from private brokerage services, which are on a tiered structure; and
(iii)Revenue from marketplace services fees earned from auction related activities, such as document, listing and title search services, and from additional marketplaces services provided to customers, such as buyer towing, refurbishment, logistical and electronic title and liens processing, financing, appraisals, subscriptions for data, parts procurement and software services, and other ancillary and transactional service fees.
Inventory sales revenue, which consists of revenue relating to assets that are purchased by the Company and then resold through either our live and online bidding auctions, online marketplaces, or our private brokerage services.
The Company recognizes revenue when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers, or upon completion of the performance obligation, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. A performance obligation is a promise in a contract to transfer a distinct good or service, or a series of distinct goods or services, to the customer. A contract’s transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue when, or as, the performance obligation is satisfied. The transaction price is reduced by estimates of variable consideration such as volume rebates and discounts. All estimates, which are evaluated at each reporting period, are based on the Company’s historical experience, anticipated volumes, and judgment. For auctions, revenue is recognized when the auction sale is complete, and the performance obligation is satisfied at the end of the auction process. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable and is shown net of value-added tax and duties.

The Company may also enter into arrangements with customers and other third parties in the disposition of customer assets in its auctions and marketplaces to generate revenues, where it may share commissions or buyer fees. There is judgment in evaluating whether the Company is acting as the principal and reports revenue on a gross basis, or the agent and reports revenue on a net basis. Among other relevant considerations, the Company assesses if it obtains control of the specified goods or service before it is provided to the customer and whether it is primarily responsible for fulfillment of the sale.
The Company offers consignors several contract options:
Straight commission contracts, where the consignor receives the gross proceeds from the sale less a pre-negotiated commission rate;
Fixed fee commission contracts, where the consignor receives the gross proceeds from the sale less a fixed flat fee;
Guarantee contracts, where the consignor receives a guaranteed minimum amount plus an additional amount if proceeds exceed a specified level; and
Inventory contracts, where we purchase, take custody, and hold used equipment and other assets before they are resold in the ordinary course of business.
Service Revenue
The Company’s commissions are earned as a pre-negotiated fixed percentage rate of the gross selling price of the asset sold or as a fixed fee. Fixed fees are earned in auction contracts for sellers relating to the sale of vehicles and includes the remarketing of vehicles, including the inbound tow, processing, storage, titling, enhancing and sale at auction. Related costs are deferred and recognized at the
time of sale. Other commissions from sales at the Company’s auctions are earned from underwritten commission contracts when the Company typically guarantees a certain level of proceeds to a consignor.
The Company accepts assets on consignment and stimulates buyer interest through professional marketing techniques by matching sellers (also known as consignors) to buyers through the auction or private sale process. Prior to offering an item for sale on its online marketplaces, the Company also performs inspections.
Buyer fees are transaction fees, based on a tiered structure, charged to buyers associated with the sale of assets. Buyer fees are also recorded in service revenue and are recognized when the asset is purchased through the auction process or online marketplaces.
Marketplace services fees earned in the process of conducting the Company’s auctions include administrative, documentation, and advertising fees, as well as fees charged to sellers for listing and inspecting equipment. The Company also offers other services to customers such as transportation and logistics, storage, vehicle condition reporting, parts procurement, data, inspections, appraisals, financing, and other ancillary services such as refurbishment, repairs, paint, make ready, towing, listings, and title and liens processing. Marketplace services fees also includes fixed registration fees from buyers of vehicles to access the auctions for a one- or two-year term in addition to the buyer fees paid upon the purchase of a vehicle.
With the final acceptance of the winning bid, the highest bidder becomes legally obligated to pay the full purchase price, which is the winning bid of the property purchased and the seller is legally obligated to relinquish the property in exchange for the winning bid less any seller’s commissions. Commission and fee revenue are recognized on the date of the auction sale upon the final acceptance of the winning bid. Registration fees to access certain vehicle auctions for a one- or two-year term are recognized ratably over the contract term.
Under the standard terms and conditions of its auction sales, except for contracts for the sale of some vehicles, the Company is not obligated to pay a consignor for property that has not been paid for by the buyer, provided the property has not been released to the buyer. Under the standard terms and conditions of its vehicle auction sales, the Company in certain arrangements may have to pay a consignor for property that has not been paid for by the buyer. If the buyer defaults on its payment obligation, also referred to as a collapsed sale, the sale is cancelled in the period in which the determination is made, and the property is returned to the consignor or placed for sale in a later auction. In some cases, if the buyer defaults on its payment obligation but the Company has already paid the consignor for the property, then the property is considered inventory, recognized on the Company's consolidated balance sheet, and placed for sale in a later auction. For accounting purposes, the Company recognizes a provision for expected collapsed or cancelled sales, which is based on an estimate of the service revenues relating to transactions that may not complete and where the buyer may default on its obligation. The Company determines the provision based on historical collapse experience, customer data and reasonable and supportable forecasts of the outcome of such transactions.
Commissions revenue is recorded net of commissions owed to third parties, which are principally the result of situations when the commission is shared with a consignor or a third party in an auction guarantee risk and reward sharing arrangement.
Underwritten commission contracts can take the form of guarantee contracts. Guarantee contracts typically include a pre-negotiated percentage of the guaranteed gross proceeds plus a percentage of proceeds in excess of the guaranteed amount. If actual auction proceeds are less than the guaranteed amount, commission is reduced; if proceeds are sufficiently lower, the Company can incur a loss on the sale. Losses, if any, resulting from guarantee contracts are recorded in the period in which the relevant auction is completed; however, if a loss relating to a guarantee contract held at the period end to be sold after the period end is known or is probable and estimable at the financial statement reporting date, the loss is accrued in the financial statements for that period. The Company’s exposure from these guarantee contracts fluctuates over time.
Marketplace services fees are recognized in the period in which the service is provided or the product is delivered to the customer.
Inventory Sales Revenue
Underwritten commission contracts can take the form of inventory contracts. Revenue related to inventory contracts is recognized in the period in which the sale is completed, title to the property passes to the buyer and the Company has fulfilled any other obligations that may be relevant to the transaction. In its role as auctioneer, the Company auctions its inventory to equipment buyers through the auction process. Following the sale of the item, the Company invoices the buyer for the purchase price of the asset, taxes, and, if applicable, the buyer transaction fee, and collects payment from the buyer.
With the final acceptance of the winning bid, the highest bidder becomes legally obligated to pay the full purchase price, which is the winning bid of the property purchased. Title to the property is transferred in exchange for the winning bid price, and if applicable, the buyer transaction fee plus applicable taxes. In a private treaty transaction where inventory is sold in a private process or inventory contracts are sold on our online marketplaces, commission and fee revenue is recognized on the date the buyer has obtained control of the asset.
Costs of Services
Costs of services incurred in earning revenue are comprised of expenses incurred in direct relation to conducting auctions and earning marketplace services fees.

For our auction sites that conduct weekly auctions in the automotive sector, cost of services includes both full-time and part-time labor, lease expense, towing, onsite customer care support and other operating costs. For our other auction sites that conduct auctions generally once or twice a quarter, mainly in the commercial, construction and transportation sector, cost of services includes direct part-time and temporary labor costs, marketing, travel and other operating costs to support the auction events. In addition, cost of services includes inspection costs, mainly labor and travel costs, to primarily support the commercial, construction and transportation auctions, and includes fees paid to third parties who introduce the Company to the seller of the assets sold in the Company's auctions or marketplaces. Cost of services also includes lease expense, full-time and part-time labor and other operating costs to support our GovPlanet weekly auctions.

Costs of services incurred in earning marketplace services fees includes direct labor, ancillary and logistical service expenses, including transportation costs, and other operating costs such as marketing, travel and technology directly related to the services provided. Costs of services excludes depreciation and amortization expenses.
Cost of Inventory Sold
Cost of inventory sold includes the purchase price of assets sold for the Company’s own account and is determined using a specific identification basis. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or estimated realizable value. Cost includes the Company’s cost of acquiring ownership of the asset.
Share-based Payments
The Company uses the fair value method of accounting for its stock options, performance based restricted share unit ("PSU") and time-based restricted share unit ("RSU") awards granted to employees and for its employee share purchase plan (“ESPP”) to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for the stock-based awards. The Company classifies a share-based payment award as an equity or liability payment based on the substantive terms of the award and any related arrangement.
PSU and RSU awards granted to senior executives and employees of the Company are measured at fair value on the grant date based on the Company's closing common share price on the date of grant, and its fair value is recognized to earnings over the vesting period with a corresponding increase to APIC recorded in equity. RSUs vest based on the passage of time and include restrictions related to employment. The number of PSUs that vest is conditional upon specified market, service, and/or performance vesting conditions being met. The Company has the option to settle PSUs and RSUs in cash or shares. With respect to settling in shares, the Company has the option to either (i) arrange for the purchase shares on the open market on the employee’s behalf based on the cash value that otherwise would be delivered, or (ii) to issue a number of shares equal to the number of units that vest. The Company expects to settle PSUs and RSUs in shares and accordingly classifies these awards as equity.
If the PSU includes a market condition, the Company assesses the probability of satisfying the market condition in its estimate of fair value based on a Monte Carlo valuation model. PSUs with market conditions vest based on the passage of time and achievement of performance criteria or market conditions. Share-based payments expense for PSUs with market conditions is recognized regardless of whether the market conditions are satisfied subject to continuing service over the requisite service period.
At the end of each reporting period, the Company revises its estimate of the number of equity instruments expected to vest. The impact of the revision of the original estimates, if any, is recognized in earnings, such that the consolidated expense reflects the revised estimate, with a corresponding adjustment to equity. Dividend equivalents on the equity-classified PSUs and RSUs are recognized as a reduction to retained earnings over the service period.
The cost of stock options is measured at fair value on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes model. The fair value of stock options expected to vest is expensed over the respective service period of the individual awards with the corresponding increase to APIC recorded in equity. Upon exercise, any consideration paid on exercise of the stock options and amounts fully amortized in APIC are credited to the common shares.
Deferred share units ("DSU") granted to members of the Board of Directors of the Company vest immediately upon grant and are not subject to market vesting conditions. The Company expects to settle DSUs in cash, where the settlement amount is determined following cessation of service to the Board of Directors, and are accordingly the DSU awards are classified as liability awards. These awards are measured at fair value at the date of grant and expensed to share-based payments expense with recognition of a corresponding liability. These awards are subsequently re-measured at fair value each reporting date up to and including the settlement date based on the closing price of the Company's common shares and changes in fair value are recognized in share-based payments expense.
The impact of forfeitures and fair value revisions to the share-based payment awards, if any, are recognized in earnings such that the cumulative expense reflects the revisions, with a corresponding adjustment to the settlement liability. Liability-classified share unit liabilities are presented in trade and other liabilities.
The Company also recognizes share-based payments expense for its ESPP based on the grant date fair value, which is recognized to earnings using the accelerated method over the requisite service period, which is generally twelve months.
Leases
The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception. The Company may have lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are generally accounted for separately. The Company applies a portfolio approach to account for leases of certain similar assets with similar terms. Right-of-Use (ROU) assets represent the right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease.
The Company considers leases with an initial term of 12 months or less as short-term in nature and does not record such leases on the consolidated balance sheet. For all other leases, ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term, initial direct costs incurred, and prepaid lease payments and exclude lease incentives. The Company includes lease payments for renewal options, purchase options (finance leases), or termination options in its determination of lease term, ROU asset, and lease liability when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise such options. As most of the Company's leases do not provide an implicit rate, management uses the Company’s incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the lease commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. Management uses the implicit rate when readily determinable.
Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term and is included in costs of services and selling, general and administrative expenses. Finance lease ROU assets are generally amortized over the lease term and are included in depreciation expense. The interest on finance lease liabilities is included in interest expense.
Sale and Leaseback Transactions
If the transfer of an asset pursuant to a sale and leaseback transaction qualifies as a sale, the Company derecognizes the underlying asset and recognizes a gain or loss. The Company recognizes a lease obligation arising from the leaseback and the corresponding ROU asset. If the fair value of the consideration for the sale of an asset does not equal the fair value of the asset, or if the payments for the lease are not at market rates, the Company will make adjustments to measure the sale proceeds at fair value. Any below-market terms are accounted for as a prepayment of lease payments and any above-market terms are accounted for as additional financing provided by the buyer-lessor.
If the transfer of an asset pursuant to a sale and leaseback transaction does not qualify as a sale and control has not transferred, the asset is not derecognized and no gain or loss is recorded as the transaction is accounted for as a financing transaction.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative instruments are recorded on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on derivatives not designated in a hedging relationship are recorded as part of operating income (expense) or non-operating income (expense) within
change in fair value of derivatives in the consolidated income statement depending on the nature of the derivative. Fair values for derivative instruments are determined using inputs based on market conditions existing at the balance sheet date, as well as the settlement date of the derivative, if applicable. Derivatives embedded in non-derivative contracts are recognized separately unless they are closely related to the host contract.
Fair Value Measurement
Fair value is the exit price that would be received to sell an asset or the price paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.
All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the consolidated financial statements at fair value are categorized within the fair value hierarchy, based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement or disclosure:
Level 1: Inputs that are based upon quoted active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2: Inputs, other than quoted prices included within Level 1, which are observable either directly or indirectly.
Level 3: Unobservable inputs where there is little or no market activity for the asset or liability. These inputs reflect management's best estimate of what market participants would use to price the assets or liabilities at the measurement date.
For assets and liabilities that are recognized in the consolidated financial statements at fair value on a recurring basis, the Company determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by re-assessing categorization at the end of each reporting period.
Foreign Currency Translation
The parent entity’s presentation and functional currency is the United States dollar. The functional currency for each of the parent entity’s subsidiaries is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates, which is usually the currency of the country of residency.
Accordingly, the financial statements of the Company’s subsidiaries that are not denominated in United States dollars have been translated into United States dollars using the exchange rate at the end of each reporting period for asset and liability amounts and the monthly average exchange rate for amounts included in the determination of earnings. Any gains or losses from the translation of asset and liability amounts are included in foreign currency translation adjustment in other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax.
In preparing the financial statements of the individual subsidiaries, transactions in currencies other than the entity’s functional currency are recognized at the rates of exchange prevailing at the dates of the transaction. At the end of each reporting period, monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are remeasured at the rates prevailing at that date. Foreign currency differences arising on remeasurement of monetary items are recognized in earnings, except for gains or losses arising from intra-entity foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term investment nature, which are included in foreign currency translation adjustment in other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax.
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Cash and cash equivalents is comprised of cash on hand, deposits with financial institutions, and other short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturity of three months or less when acquired, that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash.
In certain jurisdictions, local laws require the Company to hold cash in segregated bank accounts, which are used to settle auction proceeds payable resulting from live onsite auctions and online marketplace sales conducted in those regions. In addition, the Company also holds cash generated from its online marketplace sales in separate escrow accounts, for settlement of the respective online marketplace transactions as a part of its secured escrow service. Restricted cash balances also include funds held in accounts owned by the Company in support of short-term stand-by letters of credit to provide seller security. Non-current restricted cash consists of funds that are restricted as to withdrawal or use for other than current operations and are designated for expenditure in the acquisition of non-current assets and in business combinations.
Trade and Other Receivables
Trade accounts receivable primarily includes amounts due from customers as a result of the sale of assets at auctions and online
marketplaces, fees to be collected from buyers, and amounts due for services provided by the Company such as parts procurement, data, transportation and logistics and financing. Trade accounts receivable also include amounts to be collected from landlords of certain leased facilities for reimbursement of leasehold improvements, as well as advance charges that the Company paid on a seller's behalf in the sale of vehicles. In addition, trade and other receivables includes the current portion of loans receivable.
Accounts receivable are reported net of an allowance for credit losses. The allowance for credit losses is the Company's best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in existing receivables, and is based on historical write-off experience, customer economic data and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions. The Company regularly reviews the allowance for credit losses and past due balances for collectability. Account balances are charged against the allowance when the Company believes that the receivable will not be recovered.
Advances Against Auction Contracts
Advances against auction contracts arise when the Company pays owners, in advance, a portion of the expected gross auction proceeds from the sale of the related assets at future auctions. The Company’s policy is to limit the amount of advances to a percentage of the estimated gross auction proceeds from the sale of the related assets, and before advancing funds, require proof of owner’s title to and equity in the assets, as well as receive delivery of the assets.
Advances against auction contracts are generally secured by the assets to which they relate, as the Company requires owners to provide promissory notes and security instruments registering the Company as a charge against the asset. Advances against auction contracts are usually settled within two weeks of the date of sale, as they are netted against the associated auction proceeds payable to the owner.
Concentration of Credit Risk
The Company maintains cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash with high quality financial institutions and diversifies its deposits across several banks. Foreign exchange forward contracts are only executed with reputable lenders under our credit facility. Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to credit risk consist primarily of advanced charges receivable, trade accounts receivable and loans receivable. Advanced charges receivable are deducted from the sales proceeds upon settlement after an auction event or disposition of the assets. The majority of trade accounts receivable are collateralized with assets held in the Company's possession. In addition, buyers do not take possession of assets until the balance due for those assets is paid in full. The risk associated with trade accounts receivable concentration is also limited due to the large number of accounts and their geographic dispersion. In some cases, trade accounts receivables relating to other services are deducted from the sales proceeds upon settlement, if applicable. Trade receivables may also include amounts to be collected from landlords for certain leased facilities for reimbursement of leasehold improvements, and these advances are secured by the underlying real estate related to the lease or the Company has the option to purchase the property if costs are not reimbursed timely by the landlord. The Company participates in certain financing lending arrangements and minimizes its credit risk as the loans receivable are fully collateralized and secured by certain equipment where the fair value exceeds the loan amount at inception.
Prepaid Consigned Vehicle Charges
Prepaid consigned vehicle charges include the inbound tow, titling costs and enhancement charges associated with a consigned vehicle on a specific identification basis. These prepaid charges are recorded in cost of services at the date the vehicle is sold and revenue is recognized.
Inventory
Inventory consists of commercial assets and vehicles purchased for resale in an upcoming auction event or through a digital global marketplace. Inventory is valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value where net realizable value represents the expected sale price upon disposition of the asset inclusive of buyer fees and other fees less make-ready costs and costs of disposal and transportation. The significant elements of cost include the acquisition price, in-bound transportation costs of the inventory, and make-ready costs to prepare the inventory for sale that are not selling expenses. Write-downs to the carrying value of inventory are recorded in cost of inventory sold on the consolidated income statement.
Property, Plant and Equipment
All property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Cost includes all expenditures that are directly attributable to the acquisition or development of the asset, net of any amounts received in relation to those assets, including scientific research and experimental development tax credits.
The cost of self-constructed assets includes the cost of materials and direct labor, any other costs directly attributable to bringing the assets to working condition for their intended use, the costs of dismantling and removing items and restoring the site on which they are located (if applicable), and capitalized interest on qualifying assets. Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognized as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Company and the cost of the item can be measured reliably.
All repairs and maintenance costs are charged to earnings during the period in which they are incurred. Gains and losses on disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment are determined based on the difference between the proceeds received from disposal of an item and its carrying amount and are recognized in operating income on the income statement.
The basis for depreciation of the cost of an item and their estimated useful lives based on their usage is as follows:
AssetBasisRate / term
Land improvements and site improvementsDeclining balance10 %
Buildings and building improvementsStraight-line
15 - 30 years
Yard, automotive and office equipmentDeclining balance
20 - 30%
Computer software and equipmentStraight-line
3 - 5 years
Leasehold improvementsStraight-lineLesser of lease term or economic life
No depreciation is provided on freehold land or on assets in the course of construction or development. Depreciation of property, plant and equipment under finance leases is recorded in depreciation expense.
Long-lived Assets Held for Sale
Long-lived assets, or disposal groups comprising assets and liabilities, that are expected to be recovered primarily through sale rather than through continuing use are classified as assets held for sale. Immediately before classification as held for sale, the assets, or components of a disposal group, are measured at carrying amount in accordance with the Company’s accounting policies. Thereafter, the assets, or disposal group, are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less cost to sell and are not depreciated.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets are measured at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses. Cost includes all expenditures that are directly attributable to the acquisition or development of the asset, net of any amounts received in relation to those assets. Costs of internally developed software and technology assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their remaining estimated useful lives. Costs incurred prior to establishing technological feasibility or prior to the beginning of the application development stage of the asset are charged to operations as such costs are incurred. Once technological feasibility is established or the application development stage has begun, directly attributable costs are capitalized until the software and technology assets are available for use.
Amortization is recognized in earnings on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets from the date that they are available for use. The amortization periods of finite-lived intangible assets are re-evaluated periodically when facts and
circumstances indicate that the remaining useful lives may have changed. Indefinite-lived trade names and trademarks are not amortized. The estimated useful lives of the Company's intangible assets are as follows:
AssetRate / term
Trade names and trademarks
2 - 15 years or indefinite-lived
Customer relationships
6 - 20 years
Software and technology assets
3 - 7 years
Customer relationships includes relationships with buyers and sellers.
Impairment of Long-lived and Indefinite-lived Assets
Long-lived assets, comprised of property, plant and equipment, ROU assets, and intangible assets subject to amortization, are assessed for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable. For the purpose of impairment testing, long-lived assets are grouped and tested for recoverability at the lowest level that generates independent cash flows. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying value of the assets or asset groups is greater than the future projected undiscounted cash flows. The impairment loss is calculated as the excess of the carrying value over the fair value of the asset or asset group. Fair value is based on valuation techniques or third party appraisals. Significant estimates and judgments are applied in determining these cash flows and fair values.
Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment as of December 31, and between annual tests if indicators of potential impairment exist. The Company has the option of performing a qualitative assessment to first determine whether the quantitative impairment test is necessary. This involves an assessment of qualitative factors to determine the existence of events or circumstances that would indicate whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value. If the qualitative assessment indicates it is not more likely than not that the fair value is less than its carrying value, a quantitative impairment test is not required. Where a quantitative impairment test is required, the procedure is to compare the indefinite-lived intangible asset’s fair value with its carrying amount. An impairment loss is recognized as the difference between the indefinite-lived intangible asset’s carrying amount and its fair value.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of an acquired business over the fair value assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination.
Goodwill is not amortized, but it is tested annually for impairment at the reporting unit level as of December 31, and between annual tests if indicators of potential impairment exist. The Company has the option of performing a qualitative assessment of a reporting unit to first determine whether the quantitative impairment test is necessary. This involves an assessment of qualitative factors to determine the existence of events or circumstances that would indicate whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit to which goodwill belongs is less than its carrying value. If the qualitative assessment indicates it is not more likely than not that the reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying value, a quantitative impairment test is not required.
If a quantitative impairment test is required, the procedure is to identify potential impairment by comparing the reporting unit’s fair value with its carrying amount, including goodwill. The reporting unit’s fair value is determined using various valuation approaches and techniques that involve assumptions based on what the Company believes a hypothetical marketplace participant would use in estimating fair value on the measurement date. An impairment loss is recognized as the difference between the reporting unit’s carrying amount and its fair value.
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs represent the unamortized debt issuance costs incurred on the issuance of the Company’s long-term debt. Deferred financing costs are amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the lives of the related long term debt. Deferred financing costs are presented as a reduction in the carrying amount of the related long term debt or are deferred on the balance sheet as a deferred charge until drawn, associated with the benefit of being able to access capital over the contractual term of the long term-debt. Deferred financing costs presented separately from the carrying amount of debt on the consolidated balance sheet relate to the Company's revolving credit facilities.
Income Taxes
The current tax expense is based on taxable profit for the period and includes any adjustments to tax payable in respect of previous years. Taxable profit differs from income before income taxes as reported in the consolidated income statement because it excludes (i) items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and (ii) items that are never taxable or deductible. The Company’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted by the balance sheet date.

Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method in accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are based on temporary differences, which are differences between the accounting basis and the tax basis of the assets and liabilities, and non-capital loss, capital loss, and tax credits carryforwards are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws expected to apply when these differences reverse. Deferred tax benefits, including non-capital loss, capital loss, and tax credits carryforwards, are recognized to the extent that realization of such benefits is considered more likely than not. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period that enactment occurs. When realization of deferred income tax assets does not meet the more-likely-than-not criterion for recognition, a valuation allowance is recognized.

Interest and penalties related to income taxes, including unrecognized tax benefits, are recorded in income tax expense in the income statement.

Liabilities for uncertain tax positions are recognized in accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes. The Company evaluates the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained based on the technical merits, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized. The Company continually assesses the likelihood and amount of potential adjustments and adjusts the income tax provision, income taxes payable, and deferred taxes in the period in which the facts that give rise to a revision become known.
Redeemable Non-controlling Interest
Redeemable non-controlling interest is classified as temporary equity on the consolidated balance sheet, as the holder may demand
cash and put the non-controlling interest to the Company. Redeemable non-controlling interest is initially carried at its acquisition date
fair value. If it becomes probable that the redeemable non-controlling interest will be redeemed, the Company then will recognize any
change in its estimated redemption value immediately to retained earnings and adjust the carrying amount to equal the estimated
redemption value at the end of each reporting period.

Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock

Redeemable convertible preferred stock is classified as temporary equity on the consolidated balance sheet because it could become
redeemable due to a change in control, which would be outside of the Company’s control and requires a cash payment upon
redemption. The redeemable convertible preferred stock is initially carried at fair value, and if redemption becomes probable, the
Company will recognize any change in its estimated redemption value immediately to retained earnings and adjust the carrying
amount to equal the estimated redemption value at the end of each reporting period. Direct and incremental costs incurred in
connection with the issuance of redeemable convertible stock are recorded against the proceeds received and included in its initial
carrying amount.
Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is calculated based on the two-class method, given that the Company’s Series A Senior Preferred Shares are considered a participating security as it contractually entitles its holders to participate in the Company’s earnings. The two-class method is an earnings allocation method for computing earnings or losses per share when a Company’s capital structure includes common stock and participating securities. The two-class method determines earnings per share between holders of common stock and the Company’s participating preferred stock based on dividends declared and their respective participation rights in undistributed earnings.
Net income available to common stockholders is computed as: net income attributable to controlling interests less cumulative dividends on Series A Senior Preferred Shares and allocated earnings to participating securities. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average common stock outstanding. Diluted EPS is calculated
similarly, except that it is computed based upon the lower of the two-class method or the if-converted method, which includes the effects of the assumed conversion of the Series A Senior Preferred Shares, and the effect of shares issuable under the Company’s stock-based incentive plans if such effect is dilutive.
Defined Contribution Plans
The employees of the Company are members of retirement benefit plans to which the Company matches up to a specified percentage of employee contributions or, in certain jurisdictions, contributes a specified percentage of payroll costs as mandated by the local authorities. The only obligation of the Company with respect to the retirement benefit plans is to make the specified contributions. Contributions to the defined contribution plans are charged to the income statement reflecting the period of the employee's service.
Advertising Costs
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. These costs are included in costs of services and selling, general and administrative expenses on the accompanying consolidated income statement. Advertising expense, directly related to auction events, recorded in costs of services was $9.4 million, $9.9 million, and $8.8 million for 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. Advertising expense recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses was $26.1 million, $16.7 million, and $14.1 million for 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.
Self-insurance Reserves
The Company self-insures a portion of employee medical benefits, as well as a portion of its automobile, general liability and workers’
compensation claims. The Company has insurance coverage that limits the exposure on individual claims. The cost of the insurance is
expensed over the contract periods. Utilizing historical claims experience, the Company records an accrual for the claims related to its
employee medical benefits, automobile, general liability and workers’ compensation claims based upon the expected amount of all
such claims, which includes the cost of claims that have been incurred but not reported.
Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The purchase price is determined based on the fair value of the assets transferred, liabilities incurred, and equity interests issued, after considering any transactions that are separate from the business combination and which would be accounted for separately. The Company allocates the aggregate of the fair value of the purchase consideration transferred to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at their estimated fair values on the date of acquisition with any excess recorded as goodwill. The fair value determinations require judgement and may involve the use of significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to acquired intangible assets. The purchase price allocation may be provisional during a measurement period of up to one year to provide reasonable time to obtain the information necessary to identify and measure the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Any such measurement period adjustments are recognized to the assets and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill, in the period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred as a component of acquisition-related and integration costs.
(a)New and Amended Accounting Standards
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures, which is intended to enhance transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. The amendments will require enhanced annual disclosures regarding rate reconciliations and expanded disclosures of income taxes paid information. The amendments are effective for the Company for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures, which will enhance disclosures for significant segment expenses. The amendments improve financial reporting by requiring disclosure of incremental segment information on an annual and interim basis, primarily through enhanced disclosure of significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker ("CODM"). The amendments are effective for the Company for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023 and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.