Under paragraph 7(2)(a) of the Instrument, an issuer must disclose, in the same document where the non-GAAP financial measure that is forward-looking information is disclosed, the equivalent historical non-GAAP financial measure. The issuer must also comply with section 6 of the Instrument in respect of the equivalent historical non-GAAP financial measure disclosed.
The equivalent historical non-GAAP financial measure must have the same composition as a non-GAAP financial measure that is forward-looking information. For example, adjusted EBITDA would be the equivalent historical non-GAAP financial measure of forward-looking adjusted EBITDA.
Determining the relevant historical period to satisfy the requirement in paragraph 7(2)(a) of the Instrument is a matter of judgment, considering the time period covered by the forward-looking information and the extent to which the business of the issuer is cyclical or seasonal. For example, when an issuer discloses forward-looking information for the three months ending June 30, 20X2, the relevant period for the equivalent historical non-GAAP financial measure may be:
- Where the business of the issuer is not seasonal, the issuer’s most recent interim period for which annual financial statements or an interim financial report has been filed (e.g., the three months ended March 31, 20X2); or
- Where the business of the issuer is seasonal, the comparable historical interim period to that of the financial outlook disclosed (e.g., the three months ended June 30, 20X1).