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Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2013
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies | 3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES A . Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements reflect the accounts of IFMI and its wholly and majority owned subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. B . Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make assumptions and estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. C . Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term, highly liquid investments that have original maturities of three months or less. Most cash and cash equivalents are in the form of short-term investments and are not held in federally insured bank accounts. D. Adoption of New Accounting Standards In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-11, Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities (“ASU 2011-11”), which requires companies to disclose information about offsetting and related arrangements to enable users of financial statements to understand the effect of those arrangements on a company’s financial position. The amendments require enhanced disclosures by requiring improved information about financial statements and derivative instruments that are either (1) offset in accordance with current literature, or (2) subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement, irrespective of whether they are offset in accordance with current literature. ASU 2011-11 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual periods. In January 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-01, Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Clarifying the Scope of Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities (“ASU 2013-01”), which clarifies that the scope of the intended disclosures required by ASU 2011-11 applies to derivatives accounted for in accordance with Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, including bifurcated embedded derivatives, repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements, and securities borrowing and securities lending transactions that are either offset in accordance with Section 210-20-45 or Section 815-10-45 or subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement. ASU 2013-01 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after January 1, 2013. An entity is required to provide the disclosures retrospectively for all comparative periods presented. The Company’s adoption of the provisions of ASU 2011-11 and ASU 2013-01 effective January 1, 2013 did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows since the repurchase agreements, receivables under resale agreements and derivatives that it holds are not subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement. In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU No. 2012-02, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment (“ASU 2012-02”), which provides an option for companies to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events and circumstances indicates that it is more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired. If a company concludes that it is not more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, then the company is not required to take further action. However, if a company concludes otherwise, then it is required to determine the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset and perform the quantitative impairment test by comparing the fair value with the carrying amount in accordance with Subtopic 350-30. A company also has the option to bypass the qualitative assessment for any indefinite-lived intangible asset in any period and proceed directly to performing the quantitative assessment in any subsequent period. The Company’s adoption of the provisions of ASU 2012-02 effective January 1, 2013 did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-02, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (“ASU 2013-02”), which includes amendments that require an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. The amendments do not change the current requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income in financial statements. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures required under U.S. GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. For public entities, the amendments are effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. Early adoption was permitted. Since ASU 2013-02 only impacts disclosures, the Company’s adoption of the provisions of ASU 2013-02 effective January 1, 2013 did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. E. Financial Instruments The Company accounts for its investment securities at fair value under various accounting literature including FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 320, Investments — Debt and Equity Securities (“FASB ASC 320”), pertaining to investments in debt and equity securities and the fair value option of financial instruments in FASB ASC 825, Financial Instruments (“FASB ASC 825”). The Company also accounts for certain assets at fair value under the applicable industry guidance, namely FASB ASC 946, Financial Services-Investment Companies (“FASB ASC 946”). Certain of the Company’s assets and liabilities are required to be measured at fair value. For those assets and liabilities, the Company determines fair value according to the fair value measurement provisions included in FASB ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“FASB ASC 820”). FASB ASC 820 establishes a single authoritative definition of fair value, sets out a framework for measuring fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the quality of inputs used to measure fair value and requires additional disclosures about fair value measurements. The definition of fair value focuses on the price that would be received to sell the asset or paid to transfer the liability between market participants at the measurement date (an exit price). An exit price valuation will include margins for risk even if they are not observable. FASB ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels (“level 1, 2 and 3”). In addition the Company has elected to account for certain of its other financial assets at fair value under the fair value option provisions included in FASB ASC 825. This standard provides companies the option of reporting certain instruments at fair value (with changes in fair value recognized in the statement of operations) which were previously either carried at cost, not recognized on the financial statements, or carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognized as a component of equity rather than in the statement of operations. The election is made on an instrument-by-instrument basis and is irrevocable. See note 9 for the information regarding the effects of applying the fair value option to the Company’s financial instruments on the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013. The changes in fair value (realized and unrealized gains and losses) of these instruments are recorded in principal transactions and other income in the consolidated statements of operations. See notes 8 and 9 for further information. FASB ASC 320 requires that the Company classify its investments as either (i) held to maturity, (ii) available for sale, or (iii) trading. This determination is made at the time a security is purchased. FASB ASC 320 requires that both trading and available for sale securities are to be carried at fair value. However, in the case of trading assets, both unrealized and realized gains and losses are recorded in the statement of operations. For available for sale securities, only realized gains and losses are recognized in the statement of operations while unrealized gains and losses are recognized as a component of other comprehensive income. In all the periods presented, all securities were either classified as trading or available for sale. No securities were classified as held to maturity. Furthermore, the Company elected the fair value option, in accordance with FASB ASC 825, for all securities that were classified as available for sale. Therefore, for all periods presented, all securities owned by the Company were accounted for at fair value with unrealized and realized gains and losses recorded in the statement of operations. All securities that are classified as trading are included in investments-trading. However, when the Company acquires an investment that is classified as available for sale, but for which the Company elected the fair value option under FASB ASC 825, a distinction is made that impacts the Company’s accounting treatment. If the investment is expected to be managed by employees of the Company’s Capital Markets business segment, the investment is also classified as investments-trading. Otherwise, the investment is classified as other investments, at fair value. In general, investments-trading represents securities acquired in the secondary market while other investments, at fair value represent investments obtained in primary issuances or investments in Investment Vehicles managed by the Company. The determination of fair value is based on either quoted market prices of an active exchange, independent broker market quotations, market price quotations from third party pricing services, or, when independent broker quotations or market price quotations from third party pricing services are unavailable, valuation models prepared by the Company’s management. These models include estimates and the valuations derived from them could differ materially from amounts realizable in an open market exchange. Also, from time to time, the Company may be deemed to be the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and may be required to consolidate it and its investments under the provisions included in FASB ASC 810, Consolidation (“FASB ASC 810”). See notes 3-J and 16. In those cases, the Company’s classification of the assets as trading, other investments, at fair value, available for sale, or held to maturity will depend on the intended use of the investment by the variable interest entity. Investments-trading Unrealized and realized gains and losses on securities classified as investments-trading are recorded in net trading in the consolidated statements of operations. Other Investments, at fair value All gains and losses (unrealized and realized) from securities classified as other investments, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets are recorded as a component of principal transactions and other income in the consolidated statements of operations. Trading Securities Sold, Not Yet Purchased Trading securities sold, not yet purchased represent obligations of the Company to deliver the specified security at the contracted price, thereby creating a liability to purchase the security in the market at prevailing prices. The Company is obligated to acquire the securities sold short at prevailing market prices, which may exceed the amount reflected on the consolidated balance sheets. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on trading securities sold, not yet purchased are recorded in net trading in the consolidated statement of operations. See notes 8 and 9. F. Investment Vehicles As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had investments in several Investment Vehicles. When making an investment in an Investment Vehicle, the Company must determine the appropriate method of accounting for the investment. In most cases, the Company will either (i) consolidate the Investment Vehicle; (ii) account for its investment under the equity method of accounting, or (iii) account for its investment as a marketable equity security under the provisions of FASB ASC 320. In the case of (ii) and (iii), the Company may account for its investment at fair value under the fair value option election included in FASB ASC 825. The Company may treat an investment in equity of an entity under the equity method of accounting when it has significant influence (as described in the FASB Codification) in the investee. Significant influence is commonly interpreted as owning between 20% and 50% of an investee. However, these percentages are only a guideline and the Company considers the unique facts and circumstances of each investment. In addition, the Company may elect to account for its investment at fair value under the fair value option included in FASB ASC 825. The Company consolidates an investment when it has control of the investee. In general, control is interpreted as owning in excess of 50% of the voting interest of an investee. However, this percentage is only a guideline and the Company considers the unique facts and circumstances of each investment. In addition, if the Company determines the investee is a variable interest entity and the Company is the primary beneficiary, the Company will consolidate the investee under the requirements for the consolidation of variable interest entities included in FASB ASC 810. If the Company determines that it is not required to consolidate an investee and does not have significant influence over the investee, it will account for the investment as a marketable equity security under the provisions included in FASB ASC 320. The following discussion describes the Company’s accounting policy as it pertains to certain Investment Vehicles, the associated management contracts, and other related transactions. All of the Investment Vehicles described below are considered related parties of the Company. See note 29. Star Asia Related Entities As of December 31, 2013, the Company has an investment in several entities that either (i) invest in securities or real estate in Japan, or (ii) provide management services to entities that invest in securities or real estate in Japan. On February 20, 2014, the Company announced the completion of the sale of the Company’s ownership interests in all of the Star Asia related entities listed below with the exception of Star Asia SPV, Star Asia Opportunity, and Star Asia Opportunity II (“Star Asia Group”). As of December 31, 2013, the Company had no interest in the earnings of Star Asia SPV and Star Asia Opportunity II. Star Asia Opportunity is in liquidation and a small additional distribution to the Company is expected in 2014. See note 31. Star Asia Finance, Limited (“Star Asia”) The Company has an investment in Star Asia. Star Asia invests primarily in Asian commercial real estate structured finance products, including CMBS, corporate debt of REITs and real estate operating companies, B notes, mezzanine loans, and other commercial real estate fixed income investments. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company directly owned approximately 28% of Star Asia’s outstanding shares. In March 2010, the Company participated in a rights offering of Star Asia and made an additional investment in Star Asia and increased its ownership percentage. Prior to this increase, Star Asia had been treated as an available for sale security for which the fair value option had been elected effective January 1, 2008. Effective with this ownership increase, Star Asia was considered an equity method affiliate. However, the Company continued its fair value election regarding Star Asia. See note 9. Changes in fair value are recorded in earnings under the fair value option provisions included in FASB ASC 825. Because it is accounted for at fair value, it is included as a component of other investments, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheet. See notes 3-E, 8 and 9 for further information. Star Asia Management, LTD (“Star Asia Manager”) In January 2007, the Company made an initial investment in Star Asia Manager. Star Asia Mercury LLC (formerly, Mercury Partners, LLC) (“Mercury”) made an equal investment in Star Asia Manager. From January 2007 to March 2013, the Company and Mercury each owned 50% of Star Asia Manager. During that period, the Company treated its investment in Star Asia Manager under the equity method. The Company did not elect to carry its investment at fair value under the fair value option election included in FASB ASC 825. Effective March 1, 2013, Star Asia Manager repurchased its outstanding equity units held by Mercury. As a result of this repurchase, the Company became owner of 100% of Star Asia Manger. See note 4. Star Asia Manager also serves as external manager of Star Asia and Star Asia SPV (see below). In relation to the management of Star Asia, the management contract includes a base fee, an incentive fee, and an asset management fee credit. Star Asia Manager recognizes the management fee income from its management contract with Star Asia. Star Asia Manager receives no additional fee for managing Star Asia SPV. The Company recognized its share of Star Asia Manager under the equity method of accounting until March 1, 2013. From that point forward, the Company consolidated Star Asia Manager. Star Asia SPV Star Asia SPV is a Delaware limited liability company formed in 2010. It was formed to create a pool of assets that would provide collateral to investors who participated in Star Asia’s 2010 rights offering. The investors in Star Asia’s rights offering also received equity interests in Star Asia SPV. Star Asia SPV purchased certain assets from Star Asia and the equity interest holders of Star Asia SPV receive investment returns on the assets held in the Star Asia SPV up to an agreed upon maximum. Returns above that agreed upon maximum are remitted back to Star Asia. The Company directly owned approximately 31% of Star Asia SPV’s outstanding shares as of December 31, 2012. Star Asia SPV is an equity method investee of the Company. The Company did not elect the fair value option. Star Asia Opportunity, LLC (“Star Asia Opportunity”) Star Asia Opportunity is a Delaware limited liability company formed in July 2011 to finance the acquisition of seven real estate properties in Tokyo, Japan. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company directly owned approximately 28% of Star Asia Opportunity’s outstanding equity interests. Star Asia Opportunity is an equity method investee of the Company. The Company did not elect the fair value option. Star Asia Capital Management LLC (“Star Asia Capital Management”) Star Asia Capital Management serves as the external manager of Star Asia Opportunity. It also served as external manager of Star Asia Opportunity II prior to December 20, 2012. The Company owned 33% of Star Asia Capital Management as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. Star Asia Capital Management is an equity method investee of the Company. The Company did not elect the fair value option. Star Asia Japan Special Situations LP (“Star Asia Special Situations Fund”) In December 2012, the Company, along with two other parties, sponsored the creation of a new investment fund. The Star Asia Special Situations Fund is an investment fund that primarily invests in real estate and securities backed by real estate in Japan. The Star Asia Special Situations Fund is a closed-end fund that does not offer investor redemptions. It has an initial life of three years, which can be extended under certain circumstances for a total of two years. The Star Asia Special Situations Fund consummated its closing on December 20, 2012. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company owned approximately 2% and 6% of the Star Asia Special Situations Fund respectively. The Company accounts for its interest in the Star Asia Special Situations Fund under the equity method of accounting. The Company elected to carry its investment in the Star Asia Special Situations Fund at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings under the fair value option provisions included in FASB ASC 825. Because it is accounted for at fair value, it is included as a component of other investments, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheet. Star Asia Opportunity II, LLC (“Star Asia Opportunity II”) Star Asia Opportunity II was a Delaware limited liability company formed in August 2012 to partially finance the acquisition of a real estate property in Japan. Prior to December 20, 2012, the Company directly owned 20% of Star Asia Opportunity II’s outstanding equity interests and the Company accounted for its investment in Star Asia Opportunity II under the equity method of accounting. The Company did not elect the fair value option. On December 20, 2012, Star Asia Opportunity II completed a reorganization whereby its assets were contributed into a subsidiary of the Star Asia Special Situations Fund. The net effect of this reorganization to the Company was that the Company exchanged its ownership interest in Star Asia Opportunity II for cash and an interest in the Star Asia Special Situations Fund. See note 15. Star Asia Advisors LTD (“SAA Manager”) As of December 31, 2013, the Company owned 33% of SAA Manager. The Company treats its investment in SAA Manager under the equity method of accounting. The Company did not elect to carry its investment at fair value under the fair value option election included in FASB ASC 825. The SAA Manager serves as the external manager of the Star Asia Special Situations Fund. The management contract includes a base fee on funded capital for management services. SAA Manager recognizes the management fee income from its management contract with the Star Asia Special Situati ons Fund. The Company recognized its share of SAA Manager’s earnings or loss under the equity method of accounting. Star Asia Partners LTD (“SAP GP”) SAP GP serves as the general partner for the Star Asia Special Situations Fund. As of December 31, 2013, t he Company own ed 33% of SAP GP. The Company accounts for its investment in SAP GP under the equity method of accounting. The Company did not elect to carry its investment at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings under the fair value option provisions included in FASB ASC 825. The Company recognizes its share of SAP GP’s earnings or loss under the equity method of accounting. SAP GP will potentially receive an incentive fee based on a specified interest return after the investors in the Star Asia Special Situations Fund receive their initial investment plus an 8% cumulative annual internal rate of return. The SAP GP recognizes the incentive fee once the fee is determined (according to the terms of the limited partnership agreement). The SAP GP does not accrue an estimated incentive fee through the year or in any year prior to the return of the investors’ initial investment plus the agreed upon cumulative annual return. EuroDekania Limited and EuroDekania (Cayman) Ltd. (“EuroDekania”) The Company has an investment in, and serves as external manager, of EuroDekania. EuroDekania invests primarily in hybrid capital securities of European bank and insurance companies, CMBS, RMBS, and widely syndicated leverage loans. EuroDekania’s investments are denominated in Euros or U.K. Pounds Sterling. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company directly owned approximately 17% and 10% of EuroDekania’s outstanding shares, respectively. The Company accounts for its investment in EuroDekania as a marketable equity security classified as available for sale for which the fair value option was elected effective January 1, 2008. Changes in fair value are recorded in earnings under the fair value option provisions included in FASB ASC 825. See notes 3-E, 8 and 9 for further information. The Company also serves as external manager of EuroDekania. The management contract includes a base fee, an incentive fee, and an asset management fee credit, which is included as a component of asset management revenue in the consolidated statement of operations. Muni Funding Company of America, LLC (“MFCA”) / Tiptree Financial Partners, L.P. (“Tiptree”) The Company had an investment in MFCA. The Company also served as external manager of MFCA from MFCA’s inception until March 18, 2009, when the Company assigned its management contract with MFCA to an unaffiliated third party. MFCA was a limited liability company that primarily invested in securities that were exempt from U.S. federal income taxes. Prior to June 23, 2011, the Company owned approximately 3% of MFCA’s outstanding shares. On June 23, 2011, MFCA became a wholly owned subsidiary of Tiptree. As part of that transaction, the Company exchanged its 1,000,200 shares of MFCA for 111,133 shares of Tiptree. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company owned approximately 1% of Tiptree. During 2013, Tiptree completed a transaction with its publicly-traded, majority-owned subsidiary, Care Investment Trust Inc., which combined their businesses into a single operating company. In connection with the closing of this transaction, the company, formerly known as Care Investment Trust Inc., changed its name to “Tiptree Financial Inc.” Tiptree Financial Inc. (“Tiptree Inc.”) (NASDAQ: TIPT), a Maryland corporation is a diversified financial services holding company that was organized in 2007, and primarily focuses on the acquisition of majority control equity interests in financial services businesses. During the periods presented, the Company has accounted for its investment in MFCA under the equity method of accounting and Tiptree under the cost method of accounting. However, in both cases, the Company elected to carry its investment at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings under the fair value option provisions included in FASB ASC 825. Because it is accounted for at fair value, it is included as a component of other investments, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheet. See notes 3-E, 8 and 9 for further information. During the period that the Company served as external manager of MFCA, the management contract included a base fee, an incentive fee, and an asset management fee credit. The Company included the revenue earned as a component of asset management revenue in the consolidated statement of operations. Strategos Deep Value Mortgage Fund and Related Entities The Company had an investment in Strategos Deep Value Mortgage Fund until its liquidation on June 30, 2011. The Company served as investment manager of Strategos Deep Value Mortgage Fund and other related entities, a series of closed-end distressed debt funds (collectively, “Deep Value”) until it sold its advisory contracts in March 2011. See note 5. The management contracts included a base management fee. Deep Value raised capital from investors, and earned investment returns by investing in a diversified portfolio of asset backed securities consisting primarily of RMBS and other real estate related securities, as well as other U.S. real estate related assets and related securities. During the periods presented, the Company accounted for its investment in Strategos Deep Value Mortgage Fund as an equity method investment and elected to carry its investment at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings under the fair value option provisions included in FASB ASC 825. Because it was accounted for at fair value, it was included as a component of other investments, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheet. Deep Value Credit GP, LLC (the “Deep Value GP”) and Deep Value Credit II GP, LLC (the “Deep Value GP II”) served as the general partners for the Deep Value funds. Deep Value GP and Deep Value GP II are collectively referred to as the “Deep Value GPs.” The Deep Value GPs received an incentive fee based on a specified interest return after the investors in Deep Value received their initial investment plus an agreed upon cumulative annual return. Prior to their liquidation in 2013, the Company owned 50% of Deep Value GP and 40% of Deep Value GP II. The remaining percentages of the Deep Value GPs are owned by certain former employees of the Company. The Company accounted for its investment in the two general partners under the equity method of accounting. The Company did not elect to carry its investments at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings under the fair value option provisions included in FASB ASC 825. All of the Deep Value funds for which the Deep Value GPs served as general partners were liquidated prior to December 31, 2012. The Deep Value GPs were fully liquidated during 2013. Duart Capital Management LLC (“Duart Capital”) and Duart Global Deep Value Securities Fund LP (“Duart Fund”) Duart Capital is a Delaware limited liability company formed in 2010. The Company directly owned 20% of Duart Capital’s outstanding equity interests as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. Duart Capital is an equity method investee of the Company. Duart Capital also serves as the investment manager of the Duart Fund. The Company did not elect the fair value option for its investment in Duart Capital. The Duart Fund is a specialized deep value, public equity securities investment fund formed in September 2010. Effective December 31, 2010, the Company submitted a redemption notice to the Duart Fund to redeem 100% of its capital. The Company received its redemption in April 2011. During the periods presented, the Company accounted for its investment in the Duart Fund as an equity method investment and elected to carry its investment at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings under the fair value option provisions included in FASB ASC 825. See notes 3-E, 8 and 9. G. Derivative Financial Instruments FASB ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“FASB ASC 815”), provides for optional hedge accounting. When a derivative is deemed to be a hedge and certain documentation and effectiveness testing requirements are met, reporting entities are allowed to record all or a portion of the change in the fair value of a designated hedge as an adjustment to other comprehensive income (“OCI”) rather than as a gain or loss in the statements of operations. To date, the Company has not designated any derivatives as hedges under the provisions included in FASB ASC 815. Derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value. If the derivative was entered into as part of its broker-dealer operations, it will be included as a component of investments-trading or trading securities sold, not yet purchased. If it is entered into to a hedge for another financial instrument included in other investments, at fair value then the derivative will be included as a component of other investments, at fair value. The Company may, from time to time, enter into derivatives to manage its risk exposures (i) arising from fluctuations in foreign currency rates with respect to the Company’s investments in foreign currency denominated investments; (ii) arising from the Company’s investments in interest sensitive investments; and (iii) arising from the Company’s facilitation of mortgage-backed trading. Derivatives entered into by the Company may include (i) foreign currency forward contracts; (ii) EuroDollar futures; and (iii) purchase and sale agreements of TBAs. TBAs are forward mortgage-backed securities whose collateral remain “to be announced” until just prior to the trade settlement. TBAs are accounted for as derivatives under FASB ASC 815 when either of the following conditions exists: (i) when settlement of the TBA trade is not expected to occur at the next regular settlement date (which is typically the next month) or (ii) a mechanism exists to settle the contract on a net basis. Otherwise, TBAs are recorded as a standard security trade. The settlement of these transactions is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Derivatives involve varying degrees of off-balance sheet risk, whereby changes in the level or volatility of interest rates or market values of the underlying financial instruments may result in changes in the value of a particular financial instrument in excess of its carrying amount. Depending on the Company’s investment strategy, realized and unrealized gains and losses are recognized in principal transactions and other income or in net trading in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations on a trade date basis. See note 10. H. Furniture, Equipment, and Leasehold Improvements, Net Furniture, equipment, and leasehold improvements are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization and are included as a component of other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Furniture and equipment are depreciated on a straight line basis over their estimated useful life of 3 to 5 years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of their useful life or lease term, which generally ranges from 5 to 10 years. I. Goodwill and Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives Goodwill represents the amount of the purchase price in excess of the fair value assigned to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed in various acquisitions completed by the Company. See note 4 and note 12. In accordance with FASB ASC 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other (“FASB ASC 350”), goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are not amortized to expense but rather are analyzed for impairment. The Company measures its goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or when events indicate that goodwill may be impaired. The Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is “more likely than not” that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. Based on the results of the qualitative assessment, the Company then determines whether it needs to calculate the fair value of the reporting unit as part of the first step of the two-step goodwill impairment test. The goodwill impairment test two-step process requires management to make judgments in determining what assumptions to use in the calculation. The first step in the process is to identify potential goodwill impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value. If the carrying value is less than fair value the Company would complete step two in the impairment review process which measures the amount of goodwill impairment. The Company includes intangible assets comprised primarily of its broker-dealer licenses in other assets on its consolidated balance sheets that it considers to have indefinite useful lives. The Company reviews these assets for impairment on an annual basis. J. Variable Interest Entities FASB ASC 810, Consolidation (“FASB ASC 810”) contains the guidance surrounding the definition of variable interest entities (“VIEs”), the definition of variable interests, and the consolidation rules surrounding VIEs. In general, VIEs are entities in which equity investors lack the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support. The Company has variable interests in VIEs through its management contracts and investments in various securitization entities including CLOs and CDOs. Once it is determined that the Company holds a variable interest in a VIE, FASB ASC 810 requires that the Company perform a qualitative analysis to determine (i) which entity has the power to direct the matters that most significantly impact the VIE’s financial performance; and (ii) if the Company has the obligation to absorb the losses of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE or the right to receive the benefits of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The entity that has both of these characteristics is deemed to be the primary beneficiary and required to consolidate the VIE. This assessment must be done on an ongoing basis. The Company has included the required disclosures for VIEs in its consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013. See note 16 for further details. K . Collateralized Securities Transactions The Company may enter into transactions involving purchases of securities under agreements to resell (“reverse repurchase agreements” or “receivables under resale agreements”) or sales of securities under agreements to repurchase (“repurchase agreements”) which are treated as collateralized financing transactions and are recorded at their contracted resale or repurchase amounts plus accrued interest. The resulting interest income and expense are included in net trading in the consolidated statements of operations. In the case of reverse repurchase agreements, the Company generally takes possession of securities as collateral. Likewise, in the case of repurchase agreements, the Company is required to provide the counterparty with securities. In certain cases a repurchase agreement and a reverse repurchase agreement may be entered into with the same counterparty. If certain requirements are met, the offsetting provisions included in FASB ASC 210, Balance Sheet (“FASB ASC 210”), allow (but do not require) the reporting entity to net the asset and liability on the balance sheet. It is the Company’s policy to present the assets and liabilities on a gross basis even if the conditions described in offsetting provisions included in FASB ASC 210 are met. The Company classifies reverse repurchase agreements as a separate line item within the assets section of the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The Company classifies repurchase agreements as a separate line item within the liabilities section of the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. In the case of reverse repurchase agreements, if the counterparty does not meet its contractual obligation to return securities used as collateral, or does not deposit additional securities or cash for margin when required, the Company may be exposed to the risk of reacquiring the securities or selling the securities at unfavorable market prices in order to satisfy its obligations to its customers or counterparties. The Company’s policy to control this risk is monitoring the market value of securities pledged or used as collateral on a daily basis and requiring adjustments in the event of excess market exposure. In the case of repurchase agreements, if the counterparty makes a margin call and the Company is unable or unwilling to meet the margin call, the counterparty can sell the securities to repay the obligation. The Company is at risk that the counterparty may sell the securities at unfavorable market prices and the Company may sustain significant loss. The Company controls this risk by monitoring its liquidity position to ensure it has sufficient cash or liquid securities to meet margin calls. In the normal course of doing business, the Company enters into reverse repurchase agreements that permit it to re-pledge or resell the securities to others. See note 11. L . Revenue Recognition Net trading: Net trading includes: (i) all gains, losses, and income (interest and dividend) from securities classified as investments-trading and trading securities sold, not yet purchased; (ii) interest income and expense from collateralized securities transactions; and (iii) commissions and riskless trading profits. Riskless trades are transacted through the Company’s proprietary account with a customer order in hand, resulting in little or no market risk to the Company. Transactions are recognized on a trade date basis. The investments classified as trading are carried at fair value. The determination of fair value is based on quoted market prices of an active exchange, independent broker market quotations, market price quotations from third party pricing services or, when independent broker quotations or market price quotations from third party pricing services are unavailable, valuation models prepared by the Company’s management. The models include estimates, and the valuations derived from them could differ materially from amounts realizable in an open market exchange. Net trading is reduced by interest expense which is directly incurred to purchase income generating assets related to trading activities such as margin interest. Such interest expense is recorded on an accrual basis. Asset management: Asset management revenue consists of CDO asset management fees, fees earned for management of the Company’s permanent capital vehicles and investment funds, fees earned under a service arrangement with another CDO asset manager, and other asset management fees. CDO asset management fees are earned for providing ongoing asset management services to the trust. In general, the Company earns a senior asset management fee, a subordinated asset management fee, and an incentive asset management fee. The senior asset management fee is generally senior to all the securities in the CDO capital structure and is recognized on a monthly basis as services are performed. The senior asset management fee is generally paid on a quarterly basis. The subordinated asset management fee is an additional payment for the same services but has a lower priority in the CDO cash flows. If the trust experiences a certain level of asset defaults, these fees may not be paid. There is no recovery by the trust of previously paid subordinated asset management fees. It is the Company’s policy to recognize these fees on a monthly basis as services are performed. The subordinated asset management fee is generally paid on a quarterly basis. However, if the Company determines that the subordinated asset management fee will not be paid (which generally occurs on the quarterly payment date), the Company will stop recognizing additional subordinated asset management fees on that particular trust and will reverse any subordinated asset management fees that are accrued and unpaid. The Company will begin accruing the subordinated asset management fee again if payment resumes and, in management’s estimate, continued payment is reasonably assured. If payment were to resume but the Company was unsure of continued payment, it would recognize the subordinated asset management fee as payments were received and would not accrue such fees on a monthly basis. The incentive management fee is an additional payment, made typically after five to seven years of the life of a CDO, which is based on the clearance of an accumulated cash return on investment (“Hurdle Return”) received by the most junior CDO securities holders. It is an incentive for the Company to perform in its role as asset manager by minimizing defaults and maximizing recoveries. The incentive management fee is not ultimately determined or payable until the achievement of the Hurdle Return by the most junior CDO securities holders. The Company does not recognize incentive fee revenue until the Hurdle Return is achieved and the amount of the incentive management fee is determinable and payment is reasonably assured. Other asset management fees represents fees earned for the base and incentive management of various other Investment Vehicles that the Company manages. See note 3-F. New issue and advisory: New issue and advisory revenue includes: (i) origination fees for corporate debt issues originated by the Company; (ii) revenue from advisory services; and (iii) new issue revenue associated with arranging the issuance of and placing newly created debt, equity and hybrid financial instruments. New issue and advisory revenue is recognized when all services have been provided and payment is earned. Principal transactions and other income: Principal transactions include all gains, losses, and income (interest and dividend) from financial instruments classified as other investments, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. The investments classified as other investments, at fair value are carried at fair value. The determination of fair value is based on quoted market prices of an active exchange, independent broker market quotations, market price quotations from third party pricing services, or, when independent broker quotations or market price quotations from third party pricing services are unavailable, valuation models prepared by the Company’s management. These models include estimates, and the valuations derived from them could differ materially from amounts realizable in an open market exchange. Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date. Other income / (loss) includes foreign currency gains and losses, interest earned on cash and cash equivalents, and other miscellaneous income. M. Interest Expense, net Interest expense incurred other than interest income and expense included as a component of net trading (described in 3-L above) is recorded on an accrual basis and presented in the consolidated statements of operations as a separate non-operating expense. See notes 17 and 18. N. Leases The Company is a tenant pursuant to several commercial office leases. All of the Company’s leases are currently treated as operating leases. The Company records rent expense on a straight-line basis taking into account minimum rent escalations included in each lease. Any rent expense recorded in excess of amounts currently paid is recorded as deferred rent and included as a component of accounts payable and other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. O. Redeemable Non-Controlling Interest The redeemable non-controlling interest represented the equity interests of PrinceRidge that were not owned by the Company. See note 4. The members of PrinceRidge had the right to withdraw from PrinceRidge and require PrinceRidge to redeem the interests for cash over a contractual payment period. The Company accounted for these interests as temporary equity under Accounting Series Release 268 (“ASR 268”). These interests were shown outside of the permanent equity of IFMI in its consolidated balance sheet as redeemable non-controlling interest. See note 18. During 2013, the Company acquired all of the outstanding equity interests of PrinceRidge. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company directly owned 100% and 98%, respectively, of PrinceRidge. P. Non-Controlling Interest Subsequent to the consummation of the Merger on December 16, 2009, member interests in the Operating LLC, other than the interests held by the Company, are treated as a non-controlling interest. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company directly owned approximately 73.2% and 67.6%, respectively, of the Operating LLC. See note 1. Q. Equity-Based Compensation The Company accounts for equity-based compensation issued to its employees using the fair value based methodology prescribed by the provisions related to share-based payments included in FASB ASC 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation (“FASB ASC 718”). Through the periods presented herein, the Company has issued the following types of instruments: (i) “Restricted Units” that include both actual membership interests of the Operating LLC or interests that represent the right to receive common shares of IFMI, both of which may be subject to certain restrictions; (ii) “Restricted Stock” that are shares of IFMI’s Common Stock; and (iii) stock options of IFMI. When issuing equity compensation, the Company first determines the fair value of the Restricted Units or Restricted Stock or stock options granted. Once the fair value of the equity-based awards is determined, the Company determines whether the grants qualify for liability or equity treatment. The individual rights of the equity grants are the determining factors of the appropriate treatment (liability or equity). In general terms, if the equity-based awards granted have certain features (like put or cash settlement options) that give employees the right to redeem the grants for cash instead of equity of the Company, the grants will require liability treatment. Otherwise, equity treatment is generally appropriate. If the grants qualify for equity treatment, the value of the grant is recorded as an expense as part of compensation and benefits in the consolidated statements of operations. The expense is recorded ratably over the service period as defined in FASB ASC 718, which is generally the vesting period. The offsetting entry is to stockholders’ equity or non-controlling interest. In the case of grants that qualify for equity treatment, compensation expense is fixed on the date of grant. The only subsequent adjustments made would be to account for differences between actual forfeitures of grants when an employee leaves the Company and initial estimate of forfeitures. If the grants were to qualify for liability treatment, the treatment is the same as above except that the offsetting entry is to liability for equity compensation. In addition, in the case of grants that qualify for liability treatment, the Company would adjust the total compensation and the liability for equity compensation to account for subsequent changes in fair value as well as forfeitures as described in the preceding paragraph. From time to time, the Company has issued equity to non-employees as compensation for services. The Company follows the provisions of FASB ASC 505-50 Equity-Based Payments to Non Employees (“FASB ASC 505-50”). In those cases, the accounting treatment is materially the same as described for employees except that the fair value of the grant is determined at the earlier of (i) the performance commitment date; or (ii) the actual completion date of services. FASB ASC 505-50 describes the performance commitment date as the date when performance by the non-employee is probable because of sufficiently large disincentives in the event of nonperformance. If the sole remedy for the non-employee’s lack of performance is either the non-employee’s forfeiture of the equity instruments or the entity’s ability to sue the non-employee, those remedies should not, by themselves, be considered sufficiently large disincentives to nonperformance. When the Company has issued non employees grants, generally it has determined that the measurement date is the actual date of completion of services, which in the Company’s case, is the vesting date of the underlying grant. R. Accounting for Income Taxes The Company’s majority owned subsidiary, the Operating LLC, is treated as a pass-through entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes and in most of the states in which it does business. It is, however, subject to entity level income taxes in the United Kingdom, Spain, France, New York City, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and Illinois. Beginning on April 1, 2006, the Company qualified for Keystone Opportunity Improvement Zone (“KOZ”) benefits which exempts the Operating LLC and its members from Philadelphia and Pennsylvania state income and capital stock franchise tax liabilities. The Company’s current lease in Philadelphia will expire on April 30, 2016. However, assuming the Company extends its lease, it will be entitled to KOZ benefits through December 31, 2018. For tax purposes, AFN contributed its assets and certain of its liabilities to Cohen Brothers in exchange for an interest in Cohen Brothers on December 16, 2009. AFN was organized and had been operated as a REIT for United States federal income tax purposes and therefore was not subject to U.S. federal income tax to the extent of its distributions to stockholders and as long as certain asset, income, distribution and share ownership tests were met. Effective as of January 1, 2010, the Company ceased to qualify as a REIT and is instead treated as a C corporation for United States federal income tax purposes. The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the U.S. GAAP and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company records net deferred tax assets to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such a determination, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. In the event the Company were to determine that it would be able to realize its deferred income tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, the Company would make an adjustment to the valuation allowance which would reduce the provision for income taxes. The Company’s policy is to record penalties and interest as a component of provision for income taxes in the consolidated statements of operations. S. Other Comprehensive Income / (Loss) The Company reports the components of comprehensive income / (loss) within the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / (loss). Comprehensive income / (loss) includes net income / (loss) and foreign translation adjustment. T. Earnings / (Loss) Per Common Share In accordance with FASB ASC 260, Earnings Per Share (“FASB ASC 260”), the Company presents both basic and diluted earnings / (loss) per common share in its consolidated financial statements and footnotes. Basic earnings / (loss) per common share (“Basic EPS”) excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income or loss allocable to common stockholders or members by the weighted average number of common shares and restricted stock entitled to non-forfeitable dividends outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per common share (“Diluted EPS”) reflects the potential dilution of common stock equivalents (such as restricted stock and restricted units entitled to forfeitable dividends, and in-the-money stock options), if they are not anti-dilutive. See note 24 for the computation of earnings/(loss) per common share. U. Recent Accounting Developments In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-04, Liabilities (Topic 405): Obligations Resulting from Joint and Several Liability Arrangements for Which the Total Amount of the Obligation Is Fixed at the Reporting Date, which requires an entity to measure obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation within the scope of the guidance is fixed at the reporting date, as the sum of the following: (a) the amount the reporting entity agreed to pay on the basis of its arrangement among its co-obligors; and (b) any additional amount the reporting entity expects to pay on behalf of its co-obligors. Examples of obligations within the scope of this ASU include debt arrangements, other contractual obligations, and settled litigation and judicial rulings. The guidance in this ASU also requires an entity to disclose the nature and amount of the obligation as well as other information about those obligations. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The amendments in this ASU should be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented for those obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements within the ASU’s scope that exist at the beginning of the entity’s fiscal year of adoption. An entity may elect to use hindsight for the comparative periods presented in the initial year of adoption (if it changed its accounting as a result of adopting the guidance) and shall disclose that fact. The use of hindsight would allow an entity to recognize, measure, and disclose obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements within the scope of this ASU in comparative periods using information available at adoption rather than requiring an entity to make judgments about what information it had in each of the prior periods to measure the obligation. Early adoption is permitted. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2013-04 effective January 1, 2014 and the adoption of the provisions did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position and results of operations. In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-05, Foreign Currency Matters (Topic 830): Parent’s Accounting for the Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or of an Investment in a Foreign Entity, which addresses the accounting for the cumulative translation adjustment when a parent either sells a part or all of its investment in a foreign entity or no longer holds a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets that is a nonprofit activity or a business within a foreign entity. When a reporting entity (parent) ceases to have a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets that is a nonprofit activity or a business (other than a sale of in substance real estate or conveyance of oil and gas mineral rights) within a foreign entity, the parent is required to apply the guidance in Subtopic 830-30 to release any related cumulative translation adjustment into net income. Accordingly, the cumulative translation adjustment should be released into net income only if the sale or transfer results in the complete or substantially complete liquidation of the foreign entity in which the subsidiary or group of assets had resided. For an equity method investment that is a foreign entity, the partial sale guidance in Section 830-30-40 still applies, specifically, a pro rata portion of the cumulative translation adjustment should be released into net income upon a partial sale of such an equity method investment. However, this treatment does not apply to an equity method investment that is not a foreign entity. In those instances, the cumulative translation adjustment is released into net income only if the partial sale represents a complete or substantially complete liquidation of the foreign entity that contains the equity method investment. Additionally, the amendments in this ASU clarify that the sale of an investment in a foreign entity includes both (1) events that result in the loss of a controlling financial interest in a foreign entity (that is, irrespective of any retained investment) and (2) events that result in an acquirer obtaining control of an acquiree in which it held an equity interest immediately before the acquisition date (sometimes referred to as a step acquisition). Accordingly, the cumulative translation adjustment should be released into net income upon the occurrence of those events. For public entities, the ASU is effective prospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. Early adoption is permitted. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2013-05 effective January 1, 2014, and the adoption of the provisions did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements or financial statement disclosures. In June 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-08, Financial Services-Investment Companies (Topic 946): Amendments to the Scope, Measurement, and Disclosure Requirements, which changes the approach to the investment company assessment in Topic 946, clarifies the characteristics of an investment company, and provides comprehensive guidance for assessing whether an entity is an investment company. The amendments require an investment company to measure non-controlling ownership interests in other investment companies at fair value rather than using the equity method of accounting. The amendments also require the following additional disclosures: (a) the fact that the entity is an investment company and is applying the guidance in Topic 946, (b) information about changes, if any, in an entity’s status as an investment company, and (c) information about financial support provided or contractually required to be provided by an investment company to any of its investees. The amendments in this ASU are effective for an entity’s interim and annual reporting periods in fiscal years that begin after December 15, 2013. Earlier application is prohibited. The Company has investments in the equity securities of investment funds and other non-publicly traded entities that have the attributes of investment companies as currently described in FASB ASC 946-15-2. The Company adopted the provisions of this ASU effective January 1, 2014, and the adoption of the provisions did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position and results of operations. In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-11, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists, which provides guidance on the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits. This ASU applies to all entities that have unrecognized tax benefits when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists at the reporting date. An unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, except as follows: to the extent a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such purpose, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with deferred tax assets. This ASU is effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2013, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted the provisions of this ASU effective January 1, 2014, and the adoption of the provisions did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. V. Business Concentration A substantial portion of the Company’s asset management revenues in a year may be derived from a small number of transactions. CDO asset management revenue was generated from a limited number of CDOs. In addition, the Company may earn a substantial portion of its income in the form of principal transactions. This is comprised of gains and losses on a small number of investments. The following table provides a summary for the relevant periods:
SUMMARY OF REVENUE CONCENTRATION
(Dollars in Thousands)
|  | Year ended December 31,
|  | 2013 |  | 2012 |  | 2011
CDO Asset Management |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
CDO asset management revenue and related service agreements |  | $ | 14,228 |  | $ | 21,729 |  | $ | 19,055
Total asset management revenue |  | $ | 19,803 |  | $ | 23,172 |  | $ | 21,698
Total revenues |  | $ | 57,517 |  | $ | 95,240 |  | $ | 100,331
CDO asset management % as compared to total asset management fees |  |  | 72% |  |  | 94% |  |  | 88%
CDO asset management % as compared to total revenues |  |  | 25% |  |  | 23% |  |  | 19%
Number of CDOs generating management fees |  |  | 21 |  |  | 25 |  |  | 26
Principal Transactions |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Principal transactions and other income |  |  | (7,232) |  |  | (2,439) |  |  | 1,881
Principal transactions % as compared to total revenues |  |  | -13% |  |  | -3% |  |  | 2%
The Company’s trading revenue is generated from transactions with a diverse set of institutional customers. The Company does not consider its trading revenue to be concentrated from a customer perspective. W. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating the fair value of its financial instruments. These determinations were based on available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. Considerable judgment is required to interpret market data to develop the estimates and, therefore, these estimates may not necessarily be indicative of the amount the Company could realize in a current market exchange. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts. Refer to note 9 for a discussion of the fair value hierarchy with respect to investments-trading, other investments, at fair value and the derivatives held by the Company. Cash and cash equivalents: Cash is carried at historical cost, which is assumed to approximate fair value. The estimated fair value measurement of cash and cash equivalents is classified within level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Investments-trading: These amounts are carried at fair value. The fair value is based on either quoted market prices of an active exchange, independent broker market quotations, market price quotations from third party pricing services, or valuation models when quotations are not available. See note 9 for disclosures about the categorization of the fair value measurements of investments-trading within the three level fair value hierarchy. Other investments, at fair value: These amounts are carried at fair value. The fair value is based on quoted market prices of an active exchange, independent broker market quotations, or valuation models when quotations are not available. In the case of investments in alternative investment funds, fair value is generally based on the reported net asset value of the underlying fund. See note 9 for disclosures concerning the categorization of the fair value measurements of other investments, at fair value within the three level fair value hierarchy. Receivables under resale agreements: Receivables under resale agreements are carried at their contracted resale price, have short-term maturities, and are repriced frequently or bear market interest rates and, accordingly, these contracts are at amounts that approximate fair value. The estimated fair value measurements of receivables under resale agreements are based on observations of actual market activity and are generally classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Trading securities sold, not yet purchased: These amounts are carried at fair value. The fair value is based on quoted market prices of an active exchange, independent market quotations, market price quotations from third party pricing services, or valuation models when quotations are not available. See note 9 for disclosures concerning the categorization of the fair value measurements of trading securities sold, not yet purchased within the three level fair value hierarchy. Securities sold under agreement to repurchase: The liabilities for securities sold under agreement to repurchase are carried at their contracted repurchase price, have short-term maturities, and are repriced frequently with amounts normally due in one month or less and, accordingly, these contracts are at amounts that approximate fair value. The estimated fair value measurements of securities sold under agreement to repurchase are based on observations of actual market activity and are generally classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Debt: These amounts are carried at outstanding principal less unamortized discount. However, a substantial portion of the debt was assumed in the Merger and recorded at fair value as of that date. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the fair value of the Company’s debt was estimated to be $40.2 million and $34.6 million, respectively. The estimated fair value measurements of the debt are generally based on discounted cash flow models prepared by the Company’s management primarily using discount rates for similar instruments issued to companies with similar credit risks to the Company and are generally classified within level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Derivatives: These amounts are carried at fair value. Derivatives may be included as a component of investments-trading; trading securities sold, not yet purchased; and other investments, at fair value. See notes 9 and 10. The fair value is generally based on quoted market prices on an exchange that is deemed to be active for derivative instruments such as foreign currency forward contracts and Eurodollar futures. For derivative instruments, such as TBAs, the fair value is generally based on market price quotations from third party pricing services. See note 9 for disclosures concerning the categorization of the fair value measurements within the three level fair value hierarchy.

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