XML 36 R10.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT  v2.3.0.11
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2011
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract]  
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
We segregate the inputs used in measuring fair value into three levels: Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists.
The following liabilities are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
June 30, 2011
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
(Thousands of Dollars)
Accrued compensation expense:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NuStar Energy restricted units and
performance awards
$
16,622


 
$


 
$


 
$
16,622


NuStar Energy unit options


 
4,848


 


 
4,848


Total
$
16,622


 
$
4,848


 
$


 
$
21,470


 
 
December 31, 2010
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
(Thousands of Dollars)
Accrued compensation expense:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NuStar Energy restricted units and
performance awards
$
14,968


 
$


 
$


 
$
14,968


NuStar Energy unit options


 
7,076


 


 
7,076


Total
$
14,968


 
$
7,076


 
$


 
$
22,044




 


The fair value of our accrued compensation expense for NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards is determined using the NuStar Energy unit price at the reporting date. The fair value of our accrued compensation expense for NuStar Energy unit options is determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model on the reporting date based on the following weighted-average assumptions:
 
 
June 30,

2011
 
December 31,

2010
Expected life in years
6.3


 
6.3


Expected volatility
19.8
%
 
23.3
%
Expected distribution yield
6.7
%
 
6.2
%
Risk-free interest rate
0.3
%
 
0.4
%