XML 21 R9.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT v3.4.0.3
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [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 for identical assets or liabilities in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists.

As of December 31, 2015, NuStar Energy restricted and performance unit liabilities of $3.8 million was measured at fair value on a recurring basis and categorized as a Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. As a result of the Employee Transfer, our consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2016 no longer reflects these liabilities which were reported in “Accrued compensation expense” on our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2015. Please refer to Note 3 and Note 11 for a discussion of the employee-related obligations transferred.

We recognize cash equivalents, receivables, payables and short-term debt in our consolidated balance sheets at their carrying amounts. The fair values of these financial instruments approximate their carrying amounts. The fair value of our short-term debt would fall in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.