When an investment represents a “passive interest” in another corporation, how should the acquiring company account for it?

When an investment represents a "passive interest" in another corporation, accounting for it typically involves the fair value method. This method is applied when an investor has little or no influence over the investee, which is characteristic of passive interests. Under this approach, investments are recorded on the balance sheet at their fair market value, and any unrealized gains or losses are recognized in the income statement. This provides a clear and timely reflection of the investment's value based on current market conditions.

In contrast, the equity method is appropriate when the investor has significant influence over the investee, generally indicated by ownership of 20% to 50%. The effective interest method relates to the calculation of interest revenue or expense and is not applicable in this context. Consolidation is used when one company controls another, usually through ownership of more than 50%, which would not apply to a passive interest. Thus, the fair value method is the correct approach for accounting for passive interests in investments.