4 - OTHER ASSETS

The following table presents a summary roll-forward of other assets:

	Investment in securities - Zowie Technology		Investment in joint venture - Grand Shine Mgmt			Other		Other Assets Total

Balance at December 31, 2015	$	100,000	$	571,000		$	17,000	$	688,000
Net unrealized investment losses during the period		-		(224,000	)		-		(224,000	)
Other changes		-		-			7,000		7,000
Balance at December 31, 2016		100,000		347,000			24,000		471,000
Investment		93,000		-			-		93,000
Net unrealized investment losses during the period		-		(162,000	)		-		(162,000	)
Other changes		-		-			1,000		1,000
Balance at December 31, 2017	$	193,000	$	185,000		$	25,000	$	403,000

Our $193,000 investment in securities as of December 31, 2017 relates to our ownership of 1,322,552 common shares of Zowie Technology Corporation (Taipei Hsien, Taiwan), a supplier of electronic component products (see Part I: Item 1 – Business – Suppliers). Our investment represents approximately 8.9% of their total outstanding shares although we do not have significant influence or control. This investment is accounted for under the cost method basis of accounting, however when facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of this asset may not be recoverable, we recognize an impairment loss. The impairment loss recognized is the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the estimated fair value. In 2014, due to our estimated valuation assessment, we recognized an impairment loss of $305,000.

Our $185,000 investment in joint venture as of December 31, 2017, relates to our 49% ownership of Grand Shine Management Limited (Dong Guan, China), an electronic device contract manufacturer, and joint venture with its 51% owner, Teamforce Company Limited. This joint venture is not considered to be a “Variable Interest Entity”, and as such, is accounted for under the equity method of accounting.