Using Wal-Mart’s 2009 Form 10-K contained in Appendix A, answer the following questions:
1. Find note #1 in Wal-Mart’s annual report. Specifically locate the “Revenue Recognition” heading. In the case of shopping cards, does the company recognize revenue when the card is purchased?
2. Sam’s Club sells 12-month membership cards. Are the revenues associated with the sale of those cards recognized when the card is sold, at the end of the 12 months, or at some other point?