Business combinations whereby the Group acquires control of an entity are accounted for using the acquisition cost method, calculating goodwill as the difference between the sum of the consideration transferred, the non-controlling interests and the fair value of any previous stake in the acquired entity, less the identifiable net assets of the acquired entity, measured at fair value.

In the event that the difference between these items is negative, income is recognised in the consolidated comprehensive profit and loss statement.

In the case of business combinations carried out in stages, goodwill is measured and recognised only once control of a business has been acquired. To do this, previous holdings are re-measured at fair value and the corresponding gain or loss is recognised.