In which section of a balance sheet would you find the term “goodwill”?

Goodwill is found under Non-current assets in a balance sheet. Goodwill arises when one company

acquires another for a value greater than its tangible assets, reflecting intangible benefits such as

brand reputation, customer loyalty, patents, or strong supplier relationships.

For example, if a company is valued at £10 million based on tangible assets but is purchased for £15

million, the £5 million difference is recorded as goodwill. This asset remains on the balance sheet

until impaired [e.g., if the acquired brand loses value].

It is not a current asset because it cannot be quickly liquidated within one year. Nor is it a liability

[current or non-current] since it represents value, not debt.

For procurement and category managers, goodwill can signal a supplier’s market position, brand

strength, and long-term stability. It highlights how intangible assets, though harder to measure, play

a role in supplier evaluation and business acquisitions.

[Ref: CIPS L5M6 Study Guide, p.183 – Financial terms and balance sheet analysis]