Definition ∞ GAAP Standards, or Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, are a common set of accounting rules and procedures used by companies in the United States. These standards ensure consistency and comparability in financial reporting. They provide a framework for preparing financial statements, promoting transparency and accuracy. Adherence to GAAP is crucial for public companies and for investor confidence.
Context ∞ The application of GAAP Standards to digital assets presents a significant challenge, as current principles were not designed for these novel asset classes. Discussions involve how to classify and measure cryptocurrencies and other digital tokens on balance sheets. A critical future development is the issuance of specific guidance from accounting standard-setting bodies to address the unique accounting considerations of digital assets.