# Step acquisition

> Gaining control of a company in stages. The stake held before is remeasured to fair value at the date control is gained, with the difference in profit or loss.

Source: https://finconsol.com/blog/glossary/step-acquisition/ (updated 28 October 2026)

## Why does it matter in a group?

A step acquisition is a purchase of control in stages. When control is gained, the stake held before is treated as if it were sold and bought back at fair value on the [acquisition date](/blog/glossary/acquisition-date/). Any difference from its carrying amount goes to profit or loss.[1](#src-1) The fair value of that earlier stake then goes into the calculation of [goodwill](/blog/glossary/goodwill/), with the price paid for the new shares.

## A small example

Zenvara holds 30 percent of Quillfern, carried under the [equity method](/blog/glossary/equity-method/) at GBP 3,000,000. It buys a further 40 percent and gains control. The 30 percent is worth GBP 3,600,000 on that date, so a gain of GBP 600,000 goes to profit or loss.

## Sources

## Sources

1. IFRS 3 [Business Combinations](https://www.ifrs.org/issued-standards/list-of-standards/ifrs-3-business-combinations/), paragraph 42.