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Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, which are wholly-owned or controlled by us. Entities which we do not control through our voting interest and entities which are variable interest entities, but where we are not the primary beneficiary, are accounted for under the equity method or as debt and preferred equity investments. See Note 5, "Debt and Preferred Equity Investments" and Note 6, "Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures." All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

We consolidate a variable interest entity, or VIE, in which we are considered a primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the entity that has (i) the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could be significant to the VIE. Included in commercial real estate properties on our consolidated balance sheets for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 are approximately $607.4 million and $446.4 million, respectively, related to our consolidated VIEs. Included in mortgages and other loans payable on our consolidated balance sheets for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 are approximately $379.6 million and $279.3 million, respectively, related to our consolidated VIEs.

A noncontrolling interest in a consolidated subsidiary is defined as the portion of the equity (net assets) in a subsidiary not attributable, directly or indirectly, to a parent. Noncontrolling interests are required to be presented as a separate component of equity in the consolidated balance sheet and the presentation of net income was modified to require earnings and other comprehensive income to be attributed to controlling and noncontrolling interests.

We assess the accounting treatment for each joint venture and debt and preferred equity investment. This assessment includes a review of each joint venture or limited liability company agreement to determine which party has what rights and whether those rights are protective or participating. For all VIE's, we review such agreements in order to determine which party has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance. In situations where we or our partner approves, among other things, the annual budget, receives a detailed monthly reporting package from us, meets on a quarterly basis to review the results of the joint venture, reviews and approves the joint venture's tax return before filing, and approves all leases that cover more than a nominal amount of space relative to the total rentable space at each property, we do not consolidate the joint venture as we consider these to be substantive participation rights that result in shared power of the activities that most significantly impact the performance of our joint venture. Our joint venture agreements typically contain certain protective rights such as the requirement of partner approval to sell, finance or refinance the property and the payment of capital expenditures and operating expenditures outside of the approved budget or operating plan.

Investment in Commercial Real Estate Properties

Investment in Commercial Real Estate Properties

Real estate properties are presented at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Costs directly related to the development or redevelopment of properties are capitalized. Ordinary repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred; major replacements and betterments, which improve or extend the life of the asset, are capitalized and depreciated over their estimated useful lives.

A property to be disposed of is reported at the lower of its carrying value or its estimated fair value, less its cost to sell. Once an asset is held for sale, depreciation expense is no longer recorded and the historic results are reclassified as discontinued operations. See Note 4, "Property Dispositions and Assets Held for Sale."

Properties are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The estimated useful lives are as follows:

Category		Term

Building (fee ownership)		40 years
Building improvements		shorter of remaining life of the building or useful life
Building (leasehold interest)		lesser of 40 years or remaining term of the lease
Property under capital lease		remaining lease term
Furniture and fixtures		four to seven years
Tenant improvements		shorter of remaining term of the lease or useful life

Depreciation expense (including amortization of the capital lease asset) amounted to approximately $306.8 million, $254.5 million and $207.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

On a periodic basis, we assess whether there are any indications that the value of our real estate properties may be impaired or that their carrying value may not be recoverable. A property's value is considered impaired if management's estimate of the aggregate future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges for consolidated properties) to be generated by the property is less than the carrying value of the property. To the extent impairment has occurred, the loss will be measured as the excess of the carrying amount of the property over the calculated fair value of the property. In addition, we assess our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures for recoverability, and if it is determined that a loss in value of the investment is other than temporary, we write down the investment to its fair value. We evaluate our equity investments for impairment based on the joint venture's projected discounted cash flows. During 2010, we recorded a $2.8 million impairment charge on one of our equity investments. During 2011, we recorded a $5.8 million impairment charge in connection with the expected sale of one of our equity investments. These charges are included in depreciable real estate reserves in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 6, "Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures." We do not believe that the values of any of our consolidated properties or equity investments were impaired at December 31, 2012.

A variety of costs are incurred in the development and leasing of our properties. After determination is made to capitalize a cost, it is allocated to the specific component of a project that is benefited. Determination of when a development project is substantially complete and capitalization must cease involves a degree of judgment. The costs of land and building under development include specifically identifiable costs. The capitalized costs include, but are not limited to, pre-construction costs essential to the development of the property, development costs, construction costs, interest costs, real estate taxes, salaries and related costs and other costs incurred during the period of development. We consider a construction project as substantially completed and held available for occupancy upon the completion of tenant improvements, but no later than one year from cessation of major construction activity. We cease capitalization on the portions substantially completed and occupied or held available for occupancy, and capitalize only those costs associated with the portions under construction.

Results of operations of properties acquired are included in the consolidated statements of income from the date of acquisition.

FASB guidance requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to measure the assets acquired, liabilities assumed (including contingencies) and any noncontrolling interests at their fair values on the acquisition date. The guidance also requires that acquisition-related transaction costs be expensed as incurred, acquired research and development value be capitalized and acquisition-related restructuring costs be capitalized only if they meet certain criteria. As such, we expense acquisition-related transaction costs as incurred, which are included in transaction related costs on our consolidated statements of income.

When we acquire our partner's equity interest in an existing unconsolidated joint venture and gain control over the investment, we record the consolidated investment at fair value. The difference between the book value of our equity investment on the purchase date and our share of the fair value of the investment's purchase price is recorded as a purchase price fair value adjustment in our consolidated statements of income.

We allocate the purchase price of real estate to land and building (inclusive of tenant improvements) and, if determined to be material, intangibles, such as the value of above-, below- and at-market leases and origination costs associated with the in-place leases. We depreciate the amount allocated to building (inclusive of tenant improvements) and other intangible assets over their estimated useful lives, which generally range from three to 40 years and from one to 14 years, respectively. The values of the above- and below-market leases are amortized and recorded as either an increase (in the case of below-market leases) or a decrease (in the case of above-market leases) to rental income over the remaining term of the associated lease, which generally range from one to 14 years. The value associated with in-place leases is amortized over the expected term of the associated lease, which generally ranges from one to 14 years. If a tenant vacates its space prior to the contractual termination of the lease and no rental payments are being made on the lease, any unamortized balance of the related intangible will be written off. The tenant improvements and origination costs are amortized as an expense over the remaining life of the lease (or charged against earnings if the lease is terminated prior to its contractual expiration date). We assess fair value of the leases based on estimated cash flow projections that utilize appropriate discount and capitalization rates and available market information. Estimates of future cash flows are based on a number of factors including the historical operating results, known trends, and market/economic conditions that may affect the property. To the extent acquired leases contain fixed rate renewal options that are below market and determined to be material, we amortize such below market lease value into rental income over the renewal period.

We recognized an increase of approximately $10.5 million, $19.8 million and $22.7 million in rental revenue for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, for the amortization of aggregate below-market leases in excess of above-market leases and a reduction in lease origination costs, resulting from the allocation of the purchase price of the applicable properties. We recognized a reduction in interest expense for the amortization of the above-market rate mortgages assumed of approximately $1.8 million, $5.9 million and $2.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

The following summarizes our identified intangible assets (acquired above-market leases and in-place leases) and intangible liabilities (acquired below-market leases) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 (amounts in thousands):

	December 31, 2012			December 31, 2011

Identified intangible assets (included in other assets):
Gross amount	$	725,861		$	673,495
Accumulated amortization		(263,107	)		(193,442	)

Net	$	462,754		$	480,053

Identified intangible liabilities (included in deferred revenue):
Gross amount	$	651,921		$	622,029
Accumulated amortization		(357,225	)		(290,893	)

Net	$	294,696		$	331,136

The estimated annual amortization of acquired below-market leases, net of acquired above-market leases (a component of rental revenue or depreciation expense), for each of the five succeeding years is as follows (amounts in thousands):


2013	$	(268	)
2014		390
2015		1,223
2016		3,415
2017		3,273

The estimated annual amortization of all other identifiable assets (a component of depreciation and amortization expense) including tenant improvements for each of the five succeeding years is as follows (amounts in thousands):


2013	$	16,622
2014		12,887
2015		8,843
2016		5,556
2017		4,445

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid investments with maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement, and should be determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. As a basis for considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, FASB guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market participant assumptions based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs that are classified within levels one and two of the hierarchy) and the reporting entity's own assumptions about market participant assumptions (unobservable inputs classified within level three of the hierarchy).

We determined the fair value of our current investments in marketable securities using Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 inputs. Additionally, we determined the valuation allowance for loan losses based on Level 3 inputs. See Note 5, "Debt and Preferred Equity Investments."

The estimated fair values of tangible and intangible assets and liabilities recorded in connection with business combinations are based on Level 3 inputs. We estimate fair values based on cash flow projections utilizing appropriate discount and/or capitalization rates and available market information.

We determine impairment in real estate investments and debt and preferred equity investments, including intangibles, utilizing cash flow projections that apply estimated revenue and expense growth rates, discount rates and capitalization rates, which are classified as Level 3 inputs.

We use the following methods and assumptions in estimating fair value disclosures for financial instruments.

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Cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, and other assets and liabilities:  The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, and other assets and liabilities reported in our consolidated balance sheets approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments.

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Debt and preferred equity investments:  The fair value of debt and preferred equity investments is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using current interest rates at which similar loans with the same maturities would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings. See "Reserve for Possible Credit Losses" below regarding valuation allowances for loan losses.

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Derivative instruments:  The fair value of derivative instruments is based on current market data received from financial sources that trade such instruments and are based on prevailing market data and derived from third party proprietary models based on well recognized financial principles and reasonable estimates about relevant future market conditions.

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Mortgage and other loans payable and other debt:  The fair value of borrowings is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using current interest rates at which similar borrowings could be made by us.

The methodologies used for measuring fair value have been categorized into three broad levels as follows:

Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments.

Level 2—Valuations based principally on other observable market parameters, including
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  Quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments,
  
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  Quoted prices in less active or inactive markets for identical or similar instruments,
  
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  Other observable inputs (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates), and
  
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  Market corroborated inputs (derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data).

Level 3—Valuations based significantly on unobservable inputs.
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  Valuations based on third-party indications (broker quotes or counterparty quotes) which were, in turn, based significantly on unobservable inputs or were otherwise not supportable as Level 2 valuations.
  
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  Valuations based on internal models with significant unobservable inputs.

These levels form a hierarchy. We follow this hierarchy for our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring basis. The classifications are based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

Investment in Marketable Securities

Investment in Marketable Securities

We invest in marketable securities. At the time of purchase, we are required to designate a security as held-to-maturity, available-for-sale, or trading depending on ability and intent. We do not have any securities designated as held-to-maturity or trading at this time. Securities available-for-sale are reported at fair value pursuant to ASC 820-10, with the net unrealized gains or losses reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Unrealized losses that are determined to be other-than-temporary are recognized in earnings up to their credit component. Included in accumulated other comprehensive loss at December 31, 2012 and 2011 is approximately $3.3 million and $6.9 million, respectively, in net unrealized gains related to marketable securities.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we disposed of certain of our marketable securities for aggregate net proceeds of $6.8 million, $6.2 million and $2.8 million and realized gains of $4.9 million, $4.5 million and $1.9 million, respectively, which are included in gain (loss) on investment in marketable securities on the consolidated statements of income. During the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, we sold $22.5 million and $41.9 million of Level 3 securities and realized a gain of $0.4 million and a loss of $1.1 million, respectively, which are also included in gain (loss) on investment in marketable securities on the consolidated statements of income. There were no sales of Level 3 securities during the year ended December 31, 2012.

The cost of bonds and marketable securities sold was determined using the specific identification method.

At December 31, 2012 and 2011, we held the following marketable securities (amounts in thousands):

	December 31,

	2012		2011
Level 1—Equity marketable securities	$	2,202	$	8,065
Level 2—Commercial mortgage-backed securities		15,575		13,369
Level 3—Rake bonds		3,652		3,889

Total marketable securities available-for-sale	$	21,429	$	25,323

The cost basis of the Level 3 securities was $3.7 million and $3.9 million at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Level 3 securities mature at various times through 2030.

Investment in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures

Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures

We account for our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures under the equity method of accounting in cases where we exercise significant influence over, but do not control, these entities and are not considered to be the primary beneficiary. We consolidate those joint ventures that we control or which are VIEs and where we are considered to be the primary beneficiary. In all these joint ventures, the rights of the joint venture partner are both protective as well as participating. Unless we are determined to be the primary beneficiary in a VIE, these participating rights preclude us from consolidating these non-VIE entities. These investments are recorded initially at cost, as investments in unconsolidated joint ventures, and subsequently adjusted for equity in net income (loss) and cash contributions and distributions. Any difference between the carrying amount of these investments on our balance sheet and the underlying equity in net assets is amortized as an adjustment to equity in net income (loss) of unconsolidated joint ventures over the joint venture term or 10 years where the joint venture has an infinite life. Equity income (loss) from unconsolidated joint ventures is allocated based on our ownership or economic interest in each joint venture. When a capital event (as defined in each joint venture agreement) such as a refinancing occurs, if return thresholds are met, future equity income will be allocated at our increased economic interest. We recognize incentive income from unconsolidated real estate joint ventures as income to the extent it is earned and not subject to a clawback feature. Distributions we receive from unconsolidated real estate joint ventures in excess of our basis in the investment are recorded as offsets to our investment balance if we remain liable for future obligations of the joint venture or may otherwise be committed to provide future additional financial support. None of the joint venture debt is recourse to us, except for $218.4 million which we guarantee at two joint ventures and performance guarantees under a master lease at another joint venture. See Note 6, "Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures."

Restricted Cash

Restricted Cash

Restricted cash primarily consists of security deposits held on behalf of our tenants, interest reserves, as well as capital improvement and real estate tax escrows required under certain loan agreements.

Deferred Lease Costs

Deferred Lease Costs

Deferred lease costs consist of fees and direct costs incurred to initiate and renew operating leases and are amortized on a straight-line basis over the related lease term. Certain of our employees provide leasing services to the wholly-owned properties. Approximately $11.0 million, $9.6 million and $8.6 million of their compensation for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, was capitalized and is amortized over an estimated average lease term of seven years.

Deferred Financing Costs

Deferred Financing Costs

Deferred financing costs represent commitment fees, legal, title and other third party costs associated with obtaining commitments for financing which result in a closing of such financing. These costs are amortized over the terms of the respective agreements. Unamortized deferred financing costs are expensed when the associated debt is refinanced or repaid before maturity. Costs incurred in seeking financing transactions, which do not close, are expensed in the period in which it is determined that the financing will not close.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

Rental revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Rental revenue recognition commences when the tenant takes possession or controls the physical use of the leased space. In order for the tenant to take possession, the leased space must be substantially ready for its intended use. To determine whether the leased space is substantially ready for its intended use, management evaluates whether we are or the tenant is the owner of tenant improvements for accounting purposes. When management concludes that we are the owner of tenant improvements, rental revenue recognition begins when the tenant takes possession of the finished space, which is when such tenant improvements are substantially complete. In certain instances, when management concludes that we are not the owner (the tenant is the owner) of tenant improvements, rental revenue recognition begins when the tenant takes possession of or controls the space. When management concludes that we are the owner of tenant improvements for accounting purposes, management records amounts funded to construct the tenant improvements as a capital asset. For these tenant improvements, management records amounts reimbursed by tenants as a reduction of the capital asset. When management concludes that the tenant is the owner of tenant improvements for accounting purposes, management records our contribution towards those improvements as a lease incentive, which is included in deferred leasing costs on our consolidated balance sheets and amortized as a reduction to rental revenue on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. The excess of rents recognized over amounts contractually due pursuant to the underlying leases are included in deferred rents receivable on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We establish, on a current basis, an allowance for future potential tenant credit losses, which may occur against this account. The balance reflected on the consolidated balance sheet is net of such allowance.

In addition to base rent, our tenants also generally will pay their pro rata share of increases in real estate taxes and operating expenses for the building over a base year. In some leases, in lieu of paying additional rent based upon increases in building operating expenses, the tenant will pay additional rent based upon increases in the wage rate paid to porters over the porters' wage rate in effect during a base year or increases in the consumer price index over the index value in effect during a base year. In addition, many of our leases contain fixed percentage increases over the base rent to cover escalations. Electricity is most often supplied by the landlord either on a sub-metered basis, or rent inclusion basis (i.e., a fixed fee is included in the rent for electricity, which amount may increase based upon increases in electricity rates or increases in electrical usage by the tenant). Base building services other than electricity (such as heat, air conditioning and freight elevator service during business hours, and base building cleaning) are typically provided at no additional cost, with the tenant paying additional rent only for services which exceed base building services or for services which are provided outside normal business hours. These escalations are based on actual expenses incurred in the prior calendar year. If the expenses in the current year are different from those in the prior year, then during the current year, the escalations will be adjusted to reflect the actual expenses for the current year.

We record a gain on sale of real estate when title is conveyed to the buyer, subject to the buyer's financial commitment being sufficient to provide economic substance to the sale and we have no substantial economic involvement with the buyer.

Interest income on debt and preferred equity investments is recognized over the life of the investment using the effective interest method and recognized on the accrual basis. Fees received in connection with loan commitments are deferred until the loan is funded and are then recognized over the term of the loan as an adjustment to yield. Anticipated exit fees, whose collection is expected, are also recognized over the term of the loan as an adjustment to yield. Fees on commitments that expire unused are recognized at expiration.

Income recognition is generally suspended for debt and preferred equity investments at the earlier of the date at which payments become 90 days past due or when, in the opinion of management, a full recovery of interest income and principal becomes doubtful. Interest income recognition is resumed when the loan becomes contractually current and performance is demonstrated to be resumed. Interest is recorded as income on impaired loans only to the extent cash is received. Several of the debt and preferred equity investments provide for accrual of interest at specified rates, which differ from current payment terms. Interest is recognized on such loans at the accrual rate subject to management's determination that accrued interest and outstanding principal are ultimately collectible, based on the underlying collateral and operations of the borrower. If management cannot make this determination, interest income above the current pay rate is recognized only upon actual receipt.

If we purchase a debt or preferred equity investment at a discount, intend to hold it until maturity and expect to recover the full value of the investment, we accrete the discount into income as an adjustment to yield over the term of the investment. If we purchase a debt or preferred equity investment at a discount with the intention of foreclosing on the collateral, we do not accrete the discount.

Asset management fees are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the asset management agreement.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our tenants to make required payments. If the financial condition of a specific tenant were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of its ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.

Reserve for Possible Credit Losses

Reserve for Possible Credit Losses

The expense for possible credit losses in connection with debt and preferred equity investments is the charge to earnings to increase the allowance for possible credit losses to the level that we estimate to be adequate, based on Level 3 data, considering delinquencies, loss experience and collateral quality. Other factors considered relate to geographic trends and product diversification, the size of the portfolio and current economic conditions. Based upon these factors, we establish the provision for possible credit loss on each individual investment. When it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts contractually due, the investment is considered impaired.

Where impairment is indicated on an investment that is held to maturity, a valuation allowance is measured based upon the excess of the recorded investment amount over the net fair value of the collateral. Any deficiency between the carrying amount of an asset and the calculated value of the collateral is charged to expense. The write off of the reserve balance is called a charge off. We recorded loan loss reserves of $3.0 million, $10.9 million and $19.8 million on investments being held to maturity during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. During 2010, we recorded loan loss reserves and charge-offs of $1.0 million against our held for sale investment. We also recorded recoveries of approximately $2.4 million, $4.4 million and $3.7 million during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, in connection with the sale of our investments. This is included in loan loss and other investment reserves, net of recoveries in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

Debt and preferred equity investments held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or fair market value using available market information obtained through consultation with dealers or other originators of such investments as well as discounted cash flow models based on Level 3 data pursuant to ASC 820-10. As circumstances change, management may conclude not to sell an investment designated as held for sale. In such situations, the investment will be reclassified at its net carrying value to debt and preferred equity investments held to maturity. For these reclassified investments, the difference between the current carrying value and the expected cash to be collected at maturity will be accreted into income over the remaining term of the investment.

Rent Expense

Rent Expense

Rent expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the initial term of the lease. The excess of the rent expense recognized over the amounts contractually due pursuant to the underlying lease is included in the deferred land lease payable in the accompanying balance sheets.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

We are taxed as a REIT under Section 856(c) of the Code. As a REIT, we generally are not subject to Federal income tax. To maintain our qualification as a REIT, we must distribute at least 90% of our REIT taxable income to our stockholders and meet certain other requirements. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we will be subject to Federal income tax on our taxable income at regular corporate rates. We may also be subject to certain state, local and franchise taxes. Under certain circumstances, Federal income and excise taxes may be due on our undistributed taxable income.

Pursuant to amendments to the Code that became effective January 1, 2001, we have elected, and may in the future elect, to treat certain of our existing or newly created corporate subsidiaries as taxable REIT subsidiaries, or a TRS. In general, a TRS of ours may perform non-customary services for our tenants, hold assets that we cannot hold directly and generally may engage in any real estate or non-real estate related business. Our TRSs generate income, resulting in Federal and state income tax liability for these entities. Our TRSs recorded Federal, state and local tax provision of zero, zero and $0.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and made estimated tax payments of zero, $0.1 million and $1.0 million during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

We follow a two-step approach for evaluating uncertain tax positions. Recognition (step one) occurs when an enterprise concludes that a tax position, based solely on its technical merits, is more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon examination. Measurement (step two) determines the amount of benefit that is more-likely-than-not to be realized upon settlement. Derecognition of a tax position that was previously recognized would occur when a company subsequently determines that a tax position no longer meets the more-likely-than-not threshold of being sustained. The use of a valuation allowance as a substitute for derecognition of tax positions is prohibited.

Underwriting Commissions and Costs

Underwriting Commissions and Costs

Underwriting commissions and costs incurred in connection with our stock offerings are reflected as a reduction of additional paid-in-capital.

Exchangeable Debt Instruments

Exchangeable Debt Instruments

The initial proceeds from exchangeable debt that may be settled in cash, including partial cash settlements, must be bifurcated between a liability component and an equity component associated with the embedded conversion option. The objective of the accounting guidance is to require the liability and equity components of exchangeable debt to be separately accounted for in a manner such that the interest expense on the exchangeable debt is not recorded at the stated rate of interest but rather at an effective rate that reflects the issuer's conventional debt borrowing rate at the date of issuance. We calculate the liability component of exchangeable debt based on the present value of the contractual cash flows discounted at our comparable market conventional debt borrowing rate at the date of issuance. The difference between the principal amount and the fair value of the liability component is reported as a discount on the exchangeable debt that is accreted as additional interest expense from the issuance date through the contractual maturity date using the effective interest method. A portion of this additional interest expense may be capitalized to the development and redevelopment balances qualifying for interest capitalization each period. The liability component of the exchangeable debt is reported net of discounts on our consolidated balance sheets. We calculate the equity component of exchangeable debt based on the difference between the initial proceeds received from the issuance of the exchangeable debt and the fair value of the liability component at the issuance date. The equity component is included in additional paid-in-capital, net of issuance costs, on our consolidated balance sheets. We allocate issuance costs for exchangeable debt between the liability and the equity components based on their relative values.

Stock-Based Employee Compensation Plans

Stock-Based Employee Compensation Plans

We have a stock-based employee compensation plan, described more fully in Note 13, "Equity."

Our stock options are recorded at fair value at the time of issuance. Fair value of the stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Black-Scholes model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options, which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly subjective assumptions including the expected stock price volatility. Because our plan has characteristics significantly different from those of traded options and because changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, in our opinion, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of our employee stock options.

Compensation cost for stock options, if any, is recognized ratably over the vesting period of the award. Our policy is to grant options with an exercise price equal to the quoted closing market price of our stock on the grant date. Awards of stock or restricted stock are expensed as compensation over the benefit period based on the fair value of the stock on the grant date.

For share-based awards with a performance or market measure, we recognize compensation cost over the requisite service period, using the accelerated attribution expense method. The requisite service period begins on the date the compensation committee of our board of directors authorizes the award, adopts any relevant performance measures and communicates the award to the employees. For programs with performance measures, the total estimated compensation cost is based on the fair value of the award at the applicable reporting date estimated using a binomial model. For share-based awards for which there is no pre-established performance measure, we recognize compensation cost over the service vesting period, which represents the requisite service period, on a straight-line basis. In accordance with the provisions of our share-based incentive compensation plans, we accept the return of shares of the Company's common stock, at the current quoted market price, from certain key employee to satisfy minimum statutory tax-withholding requirements related to shares that vested during the period.

Awards can also be made in the form of a separate series of units of limited partnership interest in our Operating Partnership called long-term incentive plan units, or LTIP units. LTIP units, which can be granted either as free-standing awards or in tandem with other awards under our stock incentive plan, are valued by reference to the value of our common stock at the time of grant, and are subject to such conditions and restrictions as the compensation committee of our board of directors may determine, including continued employment or service, computation of financial metrics and/or achievement of pre-established performance goals and objectives.

Derivative Instruments

Derivative Instruments

In the normal course of business, we use a variety of derivative instruments to manage, or hedge, interest rate risk. We require that hedging derivative instruments are effective in reducing the interest rate risk exposure that they are designated to hedge. This effectiveness is essential for qualifying for hedge accounting. Some derivative instruments are associated with an anticipated transaction. In those cases, hedge effectiveness criteria also require that it be probable that the underlying transaction occurs. Instruments that meet these hedging criteria are formally designated as hedges at the inception of the derivative contract.

To determine the fair values of derivative instruments, we use a variety of methods and assumptions that are based on market conditions and risks existing at each balance sheet date. For the majority of financial instruments including most derivatives, long-term investments and long-term debt, standard market conventions and techniques such as discounted cash flow analysis, option pricing models, replacement cost, and termination cost are used to determine fair value. All methods of assessing fair value result in a general approximation of value, and such value may never actually be realized.

In the normal course of business, we are exposed to the effect of interest rate changes and limit these risks by following established risk management policies and procedures including the use of derivatives. To address exposure to interest rates, derivatives are used primarily to fix the rate on debt based on floating-rate indices and manage the cost of borrowing obligations.

We use a variety of commonly used derivative products that are considered plain vanilla derivatives. These derivatives typically include interest rate swaps, caps, collars and floors. We expressly prohibit the use of unconventional derivative instruments and using derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Further, we have a policy of only entering into contracts with major financial institutions based upon their credit ratings and other factors.

We may employ swaps, forwards or purchased options to hedge qualifying forecasted transactions. Gains and losses related to these transactions are deferred and recognized in net income as interest expense in the same period or periods that the underlying transaction occurs, expires or is otherwise terminated.

Hedges that are reported at fair value and presented on the balance sheet could be characterized as cash flow hedges or fair value hedges. Interest rate caps and collars are examples of cash flow hedges. Cash flow hedges address the risk associated with future cash flows of interest payments. For all hedges held by us and which were deemed to be fully effective in meeting the hedging objectives established by our corporate policy governing interest rate risk management, no net gains or losses were reported in earnings. The changes in fair value of hedge instruments are reflected in accumulated other comprehensive income. For derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments, the gain or loss, resulting from the change in the estimated fair value of the derivative instruments, is recognized in current earnings during the period of change.

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share

We present both basic and diluted earnings per share, or EPS. Basic EPS excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Basic EPS includes participating securities, consisting of unvested restricted stock that receive nonforfeitable dividends similar to shares of common stock. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock, where such exercise or conversion would result in a lower EPS amount. This also includes units of limited partnership interest. The dilutive effect of the outstanding nonvested shares of common stock, or nonvested shares, and restricted stock units, or RSUs, that have not yet been granted, but are contingently issuable under the share-based compensation, programs is reflected in the weighted average diluted shares calculation by application of the treasury stock method at the beginning of the quarterly period in which all necessary conditions have been satisfied. The dilutive effect of stock options is reflected in the weighted average diluted outstanding shares calculation by application of the treasury stock method. There is no dilutive effect for the exchangeable senior debentures as the conversion premium will be paid in cash.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash investments, debt and preferred equity investments and accounts receivable. We place our cash investments in excess of insured amounts with high quality financial institutions. The collateral securing our debt and preferred equity investments is located in the New York Metropolitan area. See Note 5, "Debt and Preferred Equity Investments." We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our tenants and require most tenants to provide security deposits or letters of credit. Though these security deposits and letters of credit are insufficient to meet the total value of a tenant's lease obligation, they are a measure of good faith and a source of funds to offset the economic costs associated with lost rent and the costs associated with re-tenanting the space. Although the properties in our real estate portfolio are primarily located in Manhattan, we also have properties located in Brooklyn, Long Island, Westchester County, Connecticut, Northern New Jersey and the west coast. The tenants located in our buildings operate in various industries. Other than three tenants who account for approximately 6.9%, 6.4% and 6.0% of our share of annualized cash rent, respectively, no other tenant in our portfolio accounted for more than 1.9% of our annualized cash rent, including our share of joint venture annualized rent, at December 31, 2012. Approximately 10%, 8%, 7% and 6% of our annualized cash rent for consolidated properties was attributable to 1515 Broadway, 919 Third Avenue, 1185 Avenue of the Americas and One Madison Avenue, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2012. Approximately 10%, 8%, 7% and 7% of our annualized cash rent for consolidated properties was attributable to 1515 Broadway, 919 Third Avenue, 1185 Avenue of the Americas and One Madison Avenue, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2011. Approximately 10%, 9%, 7%, 7% and 6% of our annualized rent for consolidated properties was attributable to 919 Third Avenue, 1185 Avenue of the Americas, One Madison Avenue, 420 Lexington Avenue and 485 Lexington Avenue, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2010. In addition, two debt and preferred equity investments accounted for more than 10.0% of the income earned on debt and preferred equity investments during 2012. As of December 31, 2012, approximately 74.8% of our workforce is covered by three collective bargaining agreements. Approximately 77.2% of our workforce which services substantially all of our properties is covered by a collective bargaining agreement which expires in 2015. See Note 15, "Employee Benefits."

Reclassification

Reclassification

Certain prior year balances have been reclassified to conform to our current year presentation primarily in order to eliminate discontinued operations from income from continuing operations.