Simpson Corp. is an entertainment firm that derives approximately 30% of its income from the Casino Knights Division, which manages gambling facilities. As auditor for Simpson Corp., you have recently overheard the following discussion between the controller and financial vice president. Vice President: If we sell the Casino Knights Division, it seems ridiculous to segregate the results of the sale in the income statement. Separate categories tend to be absurd and confusing to the stockholders. I believe that we should simply report the gain on the sale as other income or expense without detail. President: Professional pronouncements would require that we report this information separately in the income statement. If a sale of this type is considered unusual and infrequent, it must be reported separate from income from continuing operations. Vice President: What about the walkout we had last month when employees were upset about their commission income? Would this situation not also be subject to reporting outside operating income? Controller: I am not sure whether this item should get special reporting or not. Vice President: Oh well, it doesn't make any difference because the net effect of all of these items is immaterial, so no disclosure is necessary.

Instructions

On the basis of the discussion above, please answer the following questions.

1.Who is correct about how to handle the sale of the Casino Knights Division? Justify your position.

2.What would be the correct income statement presentation for the sale of the Casino Knights Division?

3.How should the walkout by the employees be reported? Justify your position.

4.What do you think about the vice president's observation on materiality? Justify your position.

5.What are the earnings per share implications of these topics?