Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

In accordance with the guidance for business combinations, we determine whether a transaction or other event is a business combination, which requires that the assets acquired and liabilities assumed constitute a business. Each business combination is then accounted for by applying the acquisition method. If the assets acquired are not a business, we account for the transaction or other event as an asset acquisition. Under both methods, we recognize the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquired entity. In addition, for transactions that are business combinations, we evaluate the existence of goodwill or a gain from a bargain purchase. We capitalize acquisition-related costs and fees associated with asset acquisitions. We immediately expense acquisition-related costs and fees associated with business combinations.

Purchase Price Allocation of Tangible Assets — When we acquire properties with leases classified as operating leases, we allocate the purchase price to the tangible and intangible assets and liabilities acquired based on their estimated fair values. The tangible assets consist of land, buildings, and site improvements. The intangible assets include the above- and below-market value of leases and the value of in-place leases, which includes the value of tenant relationships. Land is typically valued utilizing the sales comparison (or market) approach. Buildings are valued, as if vacant, using the cost and/or income approach. Site improvements are valued using the cost approach. The fair value of real estate is determined (i) by reference to portfolio appraisals, which determines their values on a property level by applying a discounted cash flow analysis to the estimated net operating income for each property in the portfolio during the remaining anticipated lease term, and (ii) by the estimated residual value, which is based on a hypothetical sale of the property upon expiration of a lease factoring in the re-tenanting of such property at estimated current market rental rates, applying a selected capitalization rate, and deducting estimated costs of sale.

Assumptions used in the model are property-specific where this information is available; however, when certain necessary information is not available, we use available regional and property type information. Assumptions and estimates include the following:


•	a discount rate or internal rate of return;


•	the marketing period necessary to put a lease in place;


•	carrying costs during the marketing period;


•	leasing commissions and tenant improvement allowances;


•	market rents and growth factors of these rents; and


•	a market lease term and a capitalization rate to be applied to an estimate of market rent at the end of the market lease term.

The discount rates and residual capitalization rates used to value the properties are selected based on several factors, including: the creditworthiness of the lessees, industry surveys, property type, location, age, current lease rates relative to market lease rates, and anticipated lease duration. In the case where a tenant has a purchase option deemed to be favorable to the tenant or the tenant has long-term renewal options at rental rates below estimated market rental rates, we include the value of the exercise of such purchase option or long-term renewal options in its determination of residual value.

The remaining economic life of leased assets is estimated by relying in part upon third-party appraisals of the leased assets, industry standards, and based on our experience. Different estimates of remaining economic life will affect the depreciation expense that is recorded.

For self-storage assets, the hypothetical sales price is derived by capitalizing the stabilized estimated net operating income. Estimated net operating income factors in the gross potential revenue of the business less economic vacancy rates and expected operational expenses. Where a property is deemed to have excess land, the discounted cash flow analysis includes the estimated excess land value at the assumed expiration of the lease, based upon an analysis of comparable land sales or listings in the general market area of the property adjusted for estimated market growth rates through the year of lease expiration. See Revenue Recognition and Depreciation below for a discussion of our significant accounting policies related to tangible assets.

Purchase Price Allocation of Intangible Assets — We record above- and below-market lease intangible values for acquired properties based on the present value (using a discount rate reflecting the risks associated with the leases acquired including consideration of the credit of the lessee) of the difference between (i) the contractual rents to be paid pursuant to the leases negotiated or in place at the time of acquisition of the properties and (ii) our estimate of fair market lease rates for the property or equivalent property, both of which are measured over the estimated lease term which includes renewal options that have rental rates below estimated market rental rates. We discount the difference between the estimated market rent and contractual rent to a present value using an interest rate reflecting our current assessment of the risk associated with the lease acquired, which includes a consideration of the credit of the lessee. Estimates of market rent are generally determined by us relying in part upon a third-party appraisal obtained in connection with the property acquisition and can include estimates of market rent increase factors, which are generally provided in the appraisal or by local real estate brokers.

We evaluate the specific characteristics of each tenant’s lease and any pre-existing relationship with each tenant in determining the value of in-place lease intangibles. To determine the value of in-place lease intangibles, we consider the following:


•	estimated market rent;


•	estimated lease term, including renewal options at rental rates below estimated market rental rates;


•	estimated carrying costs of the property during a hypothetical expected lease-up period; and


•	current market conditions and costs to execute similar leases, including tenant improvement allowances and rent concessions.

Estimated carrying costs of the property include real estate taxes, insurance, other property operating costs, and estimates of lost rentals at market rates during the market participants’ expected lease-up periods, based on assessments of specific market conditions.

We determine these values using our estimates or by relying in part upon third-party appraisals conducted by independent appraisal firms.

We amortize the above-market lease intangible as a reduction of rental income over the contractual lease term. We amortize the below-market lease intangible as an increase to rental income over the contractual lease term and any below-market renewal periods in the respective leases. We include the value of above-market leases in Other intangible assets, net in the consolidated financial statements. We include the value of below-market leases in Below-market rent and other intangible liabilities, net in the consolidated financial statements. We include the amortization of above- and below-market ground lease intangibles in Property expenses in the consolidated financial statements.

The value of any in-place lease is estimated to be equal to the acquirer’s avoidance of costs as a result of having tenants in place, that would be necessary to lease the property for a lease term equal to the remaining primary in-place lease term and the value of investment grade tenancy. The cost avoidance is derived first by determining the in-place lease term on the subject lease. Then, based on our review of the market, the cost to be borne by a property owner to replicate a market lease to the remaining in-place term is estimated. These costs consist of: (i) rent lost during downtime (i.e. assumed periods of vacancy), (ii) estimated expenses that would be incurred by the property owner during periods of vacancy, (iii) rent concessions (i.e. free rent), (iv) leasing commissions, and (v) tenant improvement allowances given to tenants. We determine these values using our estimates or by relying in part upon third-party appraisals. We amortize the value of in-place lease intangibles to expense over the remaining initial term of each lease. The amortization period for intangibles does not exceed the remaining depreciable life of the building.

If a lease is terminated, we charge the unamortized portion of above- and below-market lease values to rental income, and in-place lease values to amortization expense.

Purchase Price Allocation of Debt — When we acquire leveraged properties, the fair value of the related debt instruments is determined using a discounted cash flow model with rates that take into account the credit of the tenants, where applicable, and interest rate risk. Such resulting premium or discount is amortized over the remaining term of the obligation. We also consider the value of the underlying collateral taking into account the quality of the collateral, the credit quality of the tenant, the time until maturity and the current interest rate.

Purchase Price Allocation of Goodwill — In the case of a business combination, after identifying all tangible and intangible assets and liabilities, the excess consideration paid over the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired and assumed, respectively, represents goodwill. We allocate goodwill to our Net Lease reporting unit. In the event we dispose of a property that constitutes a business under GAAP from a reporting unit with goodwill, we allocate a portion of the reporting unit’s goodwill to that business in determining the gain or loss on the disposal of the business. The amount of goodwill allocated to the business is based on the relative fair value of the business to the fair value of the reporting unit. All or a portion of the goodwill may be attributed to foreign deferred tax liabilities assumed in the business combination. The deferred tax liability results from the excess of basis under GAAP over the tax basis of the asset in the taxing jurisdiction.

Impairments

We periodically assess whether there are any indicators that the value of our long-lived real estate and related intangible assets may be impaired or that their carrying value may not be recoverable. These impairment indicators include, but are not limited to, the vacancy of a property that is not subject to a lease, an upcoming lease expiration, a lease default by a tenant that is experiencing financial difficulty, the termination of a lease by a tenant, or a likely disposition of the property. We may incur impairment charges on long-lived assets, including real estate, direct financing leases, assets held for sale, and equity investments in real estate. We may also incur impairment charges on goodwill. Our policies and estimates for evaluating whether these assets are impaired are presented below.

Real Estate — For real estate assets held for investment and related intangible assets in which an impairment indicator is identified, we follow a two-step process to determine whether an asset is impaired and to determine the amount of the charge. First, we compare the carrying value of the property’s asset group to the estimated future net undiscounted cash flow that we expect the property’s asset group will generate, including any estimated proceeds from the eventual sale of the property’s asset group. The undiscounted cash flow analysis requires us to make our best estimate of, among other things, market rents, residual values, and holding periods. We estimate market rents and residual values using market information from outside sources, such as broker quotes or recent comparable sales. In cases where the available market information is not deemed appropriate, we perform a future net cash flow analysis discounted for inherent risk associated with each asset to determine an estimated fair value. The estimated fair value of the property’s asset group is primarily determined using market information from outside sources such as broker quotes or recent comparable sales. In cases where the available market information is not deemed appropriate, we perform a future net cash flow analysis discounted for inherent risk associated with each asset to determine an estimated fair value.

As our investment objective is to hold properties on a long-term basis, holding periods used in the undiscounted cash flow analysis are generally ten years, but may be less if our intent is to hold a property for less than ten years. Depending on the assumptions made and estimates used, the future cash flow projected in the evaluation of long-lived assets and associated intangible assets can vary within a range of outcomes. We consider the likelihood of possible outcomes in determining our estimate of future cash flows and, if warranted, we apply a probability-weighted method to the different possible scenarios. If the future net undiscounted cash flow of the property’s asset group is less than the carrying value, the carrying value of that property’s asset group is considered not recoverable. We then measure the impairment loss as the excess of the carrying value of the property’s asset group over its estimated fair value.

Assets Held for Sale — We classify real estate assets that are accounted for as operating leases as held for sale when we have entered into a contract to sell the property, all material due diligence requirements have been satisfied, and we believe it is probable that the disposition will occur within one year. When we classify an asset as held for sale, we compare the asset’s fair value less estimated cost to sell to its carrying value, and if the fair value less estimated cost to sell is less than the property’s carrying value, we reduce the carrying value to the fair value less estimated cost to sell. We base the fair value on the contract and the estimated cost to sell on information provided by brokers and legal counsel. We then compare the asset’s fair value (less estimated cost to sell) to its carrying value, and if the fair value (less estimated cost to sell) is less than the property’s carrying value, we reduce the carrying value to the fair value (less estimated cost to sell). We will continue to review the initial impairment for subsequent changes in the fair value and may recognize an additional impairment charge if warranted.

Direct Financing Leases — We review our direct financing leases at least annually to determine whether there has been an other-than-temporary decline in the current estimate of residual value of the property. The residual value is our estimate of what we could realize upon the sale of the property at the end of the lease term, based on market information and third-party estimates where available. If this review indicates that a decline in residual value has occurred that is other-than-temporary, we recognize an impairment charge equal to the difference between the fair value and carrying amount of the residual value.

When we enter into a contract to sell the real estate assets that are recorded as direct financing leases, we evaluate whether we believe it is probable that the disposition will occur. If we determine that the disposition is probable and therefore the asset’s holding period is reduced, we assess the carrying amount for recoverability and, if as a result of the decreased expected cash flows we determine that our carrying value is not fully recoverable, we record an allowance for credit losses to reflect the change in the estimate of the future cash flows that includes rent. Accordingly, the net investment balance is written down to fair value.

Equity Investments in Real Estate — We evaluate our equity investments in real estate on a periodic basis to determine if there are any indicators that the value of our equity investment may be impaired and whether or not that impairment is other-than-temporary. To the extent an impairment has occurred and is determined to be other-than-temporary, we measure the charge as the excess of the carrying value of our investment over its estimated fair value, which is determined by calculating our share of the estimated fair market value of the underlying net assets based on the terms of the applicable partnership or joint venture agreement. For our equity investments in real estate, we calculate the estimated fair value of the underlying investment’s real estate or net investment in direct financing lease as described in Real Estate and Direct Financing Leases above. The fair value of the underlying investment’s debt, if any, is calculated based on market interest rates and other market information. The fair value of the underlying investment’s other financial assets and liabilities (excluding net investments in direct financing leases) have fair values that generally approximate their carrying values.

Goodwill — We evaluate goodwill for possible impairment at least annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event. A triggering event is an event or circumstance that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount, including sales of properties defined as businesses for which the relative size of the sold property is significant to the reporting unit, that could impact our goodwill impairment calculations.

The goodwill impairment test is a two-step test. However, we have the option to qualitatively assess any potential impairment via step zero prior to analyzing steps one and two quantitatively. If step zero is not considered, the first step is to identify whether the value of the recorded goodwill is impaired and if it is determined that goodwill is impaired, the second step seeks to measure the amount of the impairment.

We applied step zero to our analysis. In this step, qualitative factors are assessed to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value. In this step, the macroeconomic environment in which the reporting unit operates is analyzed for any significant changes, such as deterioration in a market in which we operate or deterioration in overall financial performance, such as declining cash flows. Also, entity-specific changes are analyzed, such as changes in management, strategy, or composition of reporting unit. If, after assessing the overall macroeconomic environment, it is unlikely that the fair value is less than the carrying value, steps one and two do not need to be performed.

Our annual impairment test for the goodwill recorded in our Net Lease reporting unit is evaluated in the fourth quarter of every year.

Debt Securities — We have investments in debt securities that are designated as securities held to maturity. On a quarterly basis, we evaluate our debt securities to determine if they have experienced an other-than temporary decline in value. If the market value of the debt security is below its amortized cost, and we either intend to sell the security or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before its anticipated recovery, we record the entire amount of the other-than-temporary impairment charge in earnings. Additionally, we consider the significance of the decline and other factors contributing to the decline, such as delinquency, expected credit losses, the length of time that the fair market value has been below cost, and expected market conditions (including volatility), in our analysis of whether a decline is other than temporary. Under current authoritative accounting guidance, if the debt security’s market value is below its amortized cost and we either intend to sell the security or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before its anticipated recovery, we record the entire amount of the other-than-temporary impairment charge in earnings.

We do not intend to sell our debt securities and we do not expect that it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell these investments before their anticipated recovery. However, if we determine that an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred, we calculate the total impairment charge as the difference between the carrying value of our debt securities and their estimated fair value. We then separate the other-than-temporary impairment charge into the non-credit loss portion and the credit loss portion. We determine the non-credit loss portion by analyzing the changes in spreads on high credit quality debt securities as compared with the changes in spreads on the debt securities being analyzed for other-than-temporary impairment. We generally perform this analysis over a time period from the date of acquisition of the debt securities through the date of the analysis. Any resulting loss is deemed to represent losses due to the illiquidity of the debt securities and is recorded as a separate component of other comprehensive loss in equity. We then measure the credit loss portion of the other-than-temporary impairment as the residual amount of the other-than-temporary impairment. We record the non-credit loss portion in earnings.

Following recognition of the other-than-temporary impairment, the difference between the new cost basis of the debt securities and cash flows expected to be collected is accreted to Other interest income over the remaining expected lives of the securities.

Basis of Consolidation

Basis of Consolidation — Our consolidated financial statements reflect all of our accounts, including those of our controlled subsidiaries and our tenancy-in-common interest, as described below. The portions of equity in consolidated subsidiaries that are not attributable, directly or indirectly, to us are presented as noncontrolling interests. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity

At December 31, 2015, we had an investment in a tenancy-in-common interest in various underlying international properties. Consolidation of this investment is not required as such interest does not qualify as a VIE and does not meet the control requirement for consolidation. Accordingly, we account for this investment using the equity method of accounting. We use the equity method of accounting because the shared decision-making involved in a tenancy-in-common interest investment provides us with significant influence on the operating and financial decisions of this investment.

When we obtain an economic interest in an entity, we evaluate the entity to determine if it should be deemed a VIE, and, if so, whether we should be deemed to be the primary beneficiary and are therefore required to consolidate the entity. We apply accounting guidance for consolidation of VIEs to certain entities in which the equity investors do not have 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 from other parties. Fixed price purchase and renewal options within a lease, as well as certain decision-making rights within a loan or joint-venture agreement, can cause us to consider an entity a VIE. Significant judgment is required to determine whether a VIE should be consolidated. We review the contractual arrangements provided for in the partnership agreement or other related contracts to determine whether the entity is considered a VIE, and to establish whether we have any variable interests in the VIE. We then compare our variable interests, if any, to those of the other variable interest holders to determine which party is the primary beneficiary of the VIE based on whether the entity (i) has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and (ii) has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. We performed this analysis on all of our subsidiary entities to determine whether they qualify as VIEs and whether they should be consolidated or accounted for as equity investments in an unconsolidated venture. As a result of our assessment, at December 31, 2015, we considered 14 entities VIEs, eight of which we consolidate and six of which we account for as an equity investments.

We previously determined that the developer entity of our consolidated Agrokor d.d. build-to-suit investment, referred to as Agrokor 4, was a VIE and that we were its primary beneficiary. During 2015, in connection with the completion of the build-to-suit project, we acquired the shares of the developer entity and it is no longer a VIE.

For an entity that is not considered to be a VIE, but rather a voting interest entity, the general partners in a limited partnership (or similar entity) are presumed to control the entity regardless of the level of their ownership and, accordingly, may be required to consolidate the entity. We evaluate the partnership agreements or other relevant contracts to determine whether there are provisions in the agreements that would overcome this presumption. If the agreements provide the limited partners with either (i) the substantive ability to dissolve or liquidate the limited partnership or otherwise remove the general partners without cause or (ii) substantive participating rights, the limited partners’ rights overcome the presumption of control by a general partner of the limited partnership, and, therefore, the general partner must account for its investment in the limited partnership using the equity method of accounting.

Reclassification

Reclassifications — Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

Share Repurchases

Share Repurchases — Share repurchases are recorded as a reduction of common stock par value and additional paid-in capital

under our redemption plan, pursuant to which we may elect to redeem shares at the request of our stockholders, subject to certain exceptions, conditions, and limitations. The maximum amount of shares purchasable by us in any period depends on a

number of factors and is at the discretion of our board of directors.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we determined that our presentation of common shares repurchased should be classified as a reduction to Common stock, for the par amount of the common stock repurchase and as a reduction to Additional paid-in capital for the excess over the amount allocated to common stock, as well as included as shares unissued within the consolidated financial statements.

Real Estate

Real Estate and Operating Real Estate — We carry land, buildings, and personal property at cost less accumulated depreciation. We capitalize improvements and significant renovations that extend the useful life of the properties, while we expense replacements, maintenance, and repairs that do not improve or extend the lives of the respective assets as incurred.

Real Estate Under Construction — For properties under construction, operating expenses, including interest charges and other property expenses (e.g. real estate taxes) are capitalized rather than expensed. We capitalize interest by applying the interest rate applicable to any funding specific to the property or the interest rate applicable to any funding specific to the property or the interest rate applicable to outstanding borrowings to the average amount of accumulated qualifying expenditures for properties under construction during the period.

Acquisition, Development and Construction Loans

Acquisition, Development, and Construction Loans — We provide funding to developers for the acquisition, development, and construction of real estate, or ADC Arrangements. Under such ADC Arrangements, we may participate in the residual profits of the project through the sale or refinancing of the property. We evaluate these arrangements to determine if they have characteristics similar to a loan or if the characteristics are more similar to a joint venture or partnership, such as participating in the risks and rewards of the project as an owner or an investment partner. For those arrangements with characteristics of a loan, we follow the accounting guidance for loans and disclose within our Finance Receivables footnote (Note 5). When we determine that the characteristics are more similar to a jointly-owned investment or partnership, we account for those arrangements under the equity method of accounting (Note 6). Once the investment or partnership begins operations, we use the hypothetical liquidation at book value method to calculate income or loss (which considers the principal and interest under the loan to be a preferential return).

Assets Held for Sale

Assets Held for Sale — We classify those assets that are associated with operating leases as held for sale when we have entered into a contract to sell the property, all material due diligence requirements have been satisfied, and we believe it is probable that the disposition will occur within one year. Assets held for sale are recorded at the lower of carrying value or estimated fair value, less estimated cost to sell. On January 1, 2014, we adopted Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, 2014-08 and, other than the properties classified as held for sale prior to adoption, no other sales qualify as discontinued operations.

If circumstances arise that we previously considered unlikely and, as a result, we decide not to sell a property previously classified as held for sale, we reclassify the property as held and used. We measure and record a property that is reclassified as held and used at the lower of (i) its carrying amount before the property was classified as held for sale, adjusted for any depreciation expense that would have been recognized had the property been continuously classified as held and used or (ii) the estimated fair value at the date of the subsequent decision not to sell.

We recognize gains and losses on the sale of properties when, among other criteria, we no longer have continuing involvement, the parties are bound by the terms of the contract, all consideration has been exchanged, and all conditions precedent to closing have been performed. At the time the sale is consummated, a gain or loss is recognized as the difference between the sale price, less any selling costs, and the carrying value of the property.

Loans Receivable

Loans Receivable — For investments in mortgage notes and loan participations, the loans are initially reflected at acquisition cost, which consists of the outstanding balance, net of the acquisition discount or premium. We amortize any discount or premium as an adjustment to increase or decrease, respectively, the yield realized on these loans over the life of the loan. As such, differences between carrying value and principal balances outstanding do not represent embedded losses or gains as we generally plan to hold such loans to maturity. Our loans receivable are included in Other assets, net in the consolidated financial statements.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts — We consider rents due under leases and payments under loans receivable to be past-due or delinquent when a contractually required rent, principal, or interest payment is not remitted in accordance with the provisions of the underlying agreement. We evaluate each account individually and set up an allowance when, based upon current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the existing contractual terms and the amount can be reasonably estimated.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents — We consider all short-term, highly-liquid investments that are both readily convertible to cash and have a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. Items classified as cash equivalents include commercial paper and money market funds. Our cash and cash equivalents are held in the custody of several financial institutions, and these balances, at times, exceed federally-insurable limits. We seek to mitigate this risk by depositing funds only with major financial institutions.

Debt Securities

Debt Securities — We have investments, such as commercial mortgage-backed securities, or CMBS, and debentures, that were designated as securities held to maturity on the date of acquisition, in accordance with current accounting guidance. We carry these securities at cost, net of unamortized premiums and discounts, which are recognized in interest income using an effective yield or “interest” method, and assess them for other-than-temporary impairment on a quarterly basis.

Deferred Charges

Other Assets and Liabilities — We include prepaid expenses, tenant receivables, deferred charges, escrow balances held by lenders, restricted cash balances, debt securities, derivative assets, and corporate fixed assets in Other assets, net in the consolidated financial statements. We include derivative instruments, amounts held on behalf of tenants, and deferred revenue in Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred charges are costs incurred in connection with mortgage financings and refinancings that are amortized over the terms of the mortgages and included in Interest expense in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred rental income is generally the aggregate cumulative difference for operating leases between scheduled rents that vary during the lease term and rent recognized on a straight-line basis.

Deferred Acquisition Fees Payable to Affiliate — Fees payable to the advisor for structuring and negotiating investments and related mortgage financing on our behalf are included in Due to affiliates. A portion of these fees is payable in three equal annual installments following the quarter on which a property was purchased. The timing of the payment of such fees is impacted by certain performance criterion (Note 3).

Noncontrolling Interests

Noncontrolling Interests — We account for the special general partner interest in our Operating Partnership as a noncontrolling interest (Note 3). The special general partner interest in our Operating Partnership entitles the Special General Partner to cash distributions and, in the event there is a termination or non-renewal of the advisory agreement, redemption rights. Cash distributions to the Special General Partner are accounted for as an allocation to net income attributable to noncontrolling interest.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition — We lease real estate to others primarily on a triple-net lease basis whereby the tenant is generally responsible for operating expenses relating to the property, including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, repairs, and improvements. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, our tenants, pursuant to their lease obligations, have made direct payment to the taxing authorities of real estate taxes of approximately $23.6 million, $22.2 million, and $23.2 million, respectively.

Substantially all of our leases provide for either scheduled rent increases, periodic rent adjustments based on formulas indexed to changes in the Consumer Price Index, or CPI, or similar indices, or percentage rents. CPI-based adjustments are contingent on future events and are therefore usually not included as minimum rent in straight-line rent calculations. We recognize rents from percentage rents as reported by the lessees, which is after the level of sales requiring a rental payment to us is reached. Percentage rents were insignificant for the periods presented.

We account for leases as operating or direct financing leases, as described below:

Operating Leases — For operating leases we record real estate at cost less accumulated depreciation; we recognize future minimum rental revenue on a straight-line basis over the non-cancelable lease term of the related leases and charge expenses to operations as incurred (Note 4).

Direct Financing Method — We record leases accounted for under the direct financing method as a net investment (Note 5). The net investment is equal to the cost of the leased assets. The difference between the cost and the gross investment, which includes the residual value of the leased asset and the future minimum rents, is unearned income. We defer and amortize unearned income to income over the lease term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of return on our net investment in the lease.

Asset Retirement Obligations

Asset Retirement Obligations — Asset retirement obligations relate to the legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction, development, and/or normal operation of a long-lived asset. The fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation is recorded in the period in which it is incurred and the cost of such liability is recorded as an increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset by the same amount. The liability is accreted each period and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the estimated remaining life of the related long-lived asset. Revisions to estimated retirement obligations result in adjustments to the related capitalized asset and corresponding liability.

In order to determine the fair value of the asset retirement obligations, we make certain estimates and assumptions including, among other things, projected cash flows, the borrowing interest rate, and an assessment of market conditions that could significantly impact the estimated fair value. These estimates and assumptions are subjective.

Depreciation

Depreciation — We compute depreciation of building and related improvements using the straight-line method over the estimated remaining useful lives of the properties (not to exceed 40 years) and furniture, fixtures, and equipment (generally up to 7 years). We compute depreciation of tenant improvements using the straight-line method over the lesser of the remaining term of the lease or the estimated useful life.

Foreign Currency

Foreign Currency Translation and Transaction Gains and Losses — We have interests in real estate investments in Europe and the United Kingdom, for which the functional currency is either the euro, the British pound sterling, or the Norwegian krone, and in Asia, for which the functional currency is either the Japanese yen or the Indian rupee. We perform the translation from local currencies to the U.S. dollar for assets and liabilities using current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using a weighted-average exchange rate during the year. We report the gains and losses resulting from such translation as a component of other comprehensive income in equity. These translation gains and losses are released to net income when we have substantially exited from all investments in the related currency.

A transaction gain or loss (measured from the transaction date or the most recent intervening balance sheet date, whichever is later), realized upon settlement of a foreign currency transaction will generally be included in net income for the period in which the transaction is settled. Also, intercompany foreign currency transactions that are scheduled for settlement, consisting primarily of accrued interest and the translation to the reporting currency of short-term subordinated intercompany debt with scheduled principal payments, are included in the determination of net income.

Intercompany foreign currency transactions of a long-term nature (that is, settlement is not planned or anticipated in the foreseeable future), in which the entities to the transactions are consolidated or accounted for by the equity method in our consolidated financial statements, are not included in net income but are reported as a component of other comprehensive income in equity.

Net realized gains or (losses) are recognized on foreign currency transactions in connection with the transfer of cash from foreign operations of subsidiaries to the parent company.

Derivative Instruments

Derivative Instruments — We measure derivative instruments at fair value and record them as assets or liabilities, depending on our rights or obligations under the applicable derivative contract. Derivatives that are not designated as hedges must be adjusted to fair value through earnings. For a derivative designated and that qualified as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the change in fair value of the derivative is recognized in Other comprehensive (loss) income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative’s change in fair value is immediately recognized in earnings. For a derivative designated, and that qualified, as a net investment hedge, the effective portion of the change in the fair value and/or the net settlement of the derivative are reported in Other comprehensive (loss) income as part of the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivative is recognized directly in earnings. Amounts are reclassified out of Other comprehensive (loss) income into earnings when the hedged investment is either sold or substantially liquidated.

We use the portfolio exception in Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC, 820-10-35-18D, Application to Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities with Offsetting Positions in Market Risk or Counterparty Credit Risk, with respect to measuring counterparty credit risk for all of our derivative transactions subject to master netting arrangements.

We measure derivative instruments at fair value and record them as assets or liabilities, depending on our rights or obligations under the applicable derivative contract. Derivatives that are not designated as hedges must be adjusted to fair value through earnings. For a derivative designated, and that qualified, as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the change in fair value of the derivative is recognized in Other comprehensive (loss) income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. For a derivative designated, and that qualified, as a net investment hedge, the effective portion of the change in the fair value and/or the net settlement of the derivative are reported in Other comprehensive (loss) income as part of the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment. Amounts are reclassified out of Other comprehensive (loss) income into earnings when the hedged investment is either sold or substantially liquidated. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of any derivative is immediately recognized in earnings.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes — We have elected to be taxed as a REIT under Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code. In order to maintain our qualification as a REIT, we are required, among other things, to distribute at least 90% of our REIT net taxable income to our stockholders and meet certain tests regarding the nature of our income and assets. As a REIT, we are not subject to federal income taxes on our income and gains that we distribute to our stockholders as long as we satisfy certain requirements, principally relating to the nature of our income and the level of our distributions, as well as other factors. We believe that we have operated, and we intend to continue to operate, in a manner that allows us to continue to qualify as a REIT.

We conduct business in various states and municipalities within the United States, Europe, and Asia and, as a result, we or one or more of our subsidiaries file income tax returns in the United States federal jurisdiction and various state and certain foreign jurisdictions. As a result, we are subject to certain foreign, state, and local taxes and a provision for such taxes is included in the consolidated financial statements.

We elect to treat certain of our corporate subsidiaries as TRSs. In general, a TRS may perform additional services for our tenants and generally may engage in any real estate or non-real estate-related business (except for the operation or management of health care facilities or lodging facilities or providing to any person, under a franchise, license or otherwise, rights to any brand name under which any lodging facility or health care facility is operated). A TRS is subject to corporate federal income tax.

Deferred income taxes are recorded for the taxable subsidiaries in their respective jurisdictions based on earnings reported. The current provision for income taxes differs from the amounts currently payable because of temporary differences in the recognition of certain income and expense items for financial reporting and tax reporting purposes. Deferred income taxes are computed under the asset and liability method. The asset and liability method requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between tax bases and financial bases of assets and liabilities (Note 13).

Significant judgment is required in determining our tax provision and in evaluating our tax positions. We establish tax reserves based on a benefit recognition model, which we believe could result in a greater amount of benefit (and a lower amount of reserve) being initially recognized in certain circumstances. Provided that the tax position is deemed more likely than not of being sustained, we recognize the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being ultimately realized upon settlement. We derecognize the tax position when it is no longer more likely than not of being sustained.

Our earnings and profits, which determine the taxability of distributions to stockholders, differ from net income reported for financial reporting purposes due primarily to differences in depreciation, including our hotel property, and timing differences of rent recognition and certain expense deductions, for federal income tax purposes. Deferred income taxes relate primarily to our TRSs and foreign properties, and are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for temporary differences between the financial reporting bases of assets and liabilities of our TRSs and their respective tax bases, and for their operating loss and tax credit carryforwards based on enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when such amounts are realized or settled. However, deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is more likely than not that they will be realized based on consideration of available evidence, including tax planning strategies and other factors.

We recognize deferred income taxes in certain of our subsidiaries taxable in the United States or in foreign jurisdictions. Deferred income taxes are generally the result of temporary differences (items that are treated differently for tax purposes than for GAAP purposes as described in Note 13). In addition, deferred tax assets arise from unutilized tax net operating losses generated in current and prior years. We provide a valuation allowance against our deferred income tax assets when we believe that it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the deferred income tax asset may not be realized. Whenever a change in circumstances causes a change in the estimated realizability of the related deferred income tax asset, the resulting increase or decrease in the valuation allowance is included in deferred income tax expense (benefit).

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share — We have a simple equity capital structure with only common stock outstanding. As a result, earnings per share, as presented, represents both basic and dilutive per-share amounts for all periods presented in the consolidated financial statements. Income per basic share of common stock is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding during such period.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and the disclosure of contingent amounts in our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Recent Accounting Requirements

The following ASUs, promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, are applicable to us:

ASU 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805) — ASU 2015-16 requires that an acquirer recognize adjustments identified during the business combination measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. The effects on earnings due to changes in depreciation, amortization, or other income effects as a result of the change are also recognized in the same period’s financial statements. ASU 2015-16 also requires that acquirers present separately on the face of the income statement or disclose in the notes to the financial statements the portion of the amount recorded in current-period earnings that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment had been recognized as of the acquisition date. ASU 2015-16 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim periods within those fiscal years, early adoption is permitted and prospective application is required for adjustments that are identified after the effective date of this update. We elected to early adopt ASU 2015-16 and implemented the standard prospectively beginning July 1, 2015. The adoption and implementation of the standard did not have a material impact on our financial statements.

ASU 2015-03, Interest-Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30) — ASU 2015-03 changes the presentation of debt issuance costs, which are currently recognized as a deferred charge (that is, an asset) and requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. ASU 2015-03 does not affect the recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs. ASU 2015-03 is effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015, early adoption is permitted and retrospective application is required. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2015-03 on our consolidated financial statements and expect to reclassify $14.3 million of deferred financing costs, net from Other assets, net to Non-recourse debt, net and Senior Credit Facility as of January 1, 2016.

ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810) — We will adopt ASU 2015-02 on January 1, 2016 and are currently in the process of evaluating its impact on the consolidated financial statements. We are evaluating our joint ventures, as well as existing leases that create VIEs based on lease terms, including a fixed-price purchase option or fixed-price renewal option. We generally create our joint ventures as partnerships in the form of a limited liability company or a limited partnership. ASU 2015-02 requires an entity to classify a limited liability company or a limited partnership as a VIE unless the partnership provides partners with either substantive kick-out rights or substantive participating rights over the managing member or general partner. Since a majority of our partnerships lack kick-out rights or substantive participating rights over the managing member or general partner, the impact of this new guidance for us is primarily a change in classification from voting interest entity to VIE. This ASU does not change the criteria regarding which party consolidates a VIE. Thus, the change in classification will require us to include additional entities as part of our VIE disclosures. However, there is not expected to be a material impact to our consolidated balance sheets or results of operations for any of the periods presented.

ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) — ASU 2014-09 is a comprehensive new revenue recognition model requiring a company to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount reflecting the consideration it expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 does not apply to our lease revenues, but will apply to reimbursed tenant costs and revenues generated from our operating properties. Additionally, this guidance modifies disclosures regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, which defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 for all entities by one year, until years beginning in 2018, with early adoption permitted but not before 2017, the original public company effective date. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2014-09 on our consolidated financial statements and have not yet determined the method by which we will adopt the standard.

Recent Accounting Change

The following recent accounting change may potentially impact our business if the outcome has a significant influence on sale-leaseback demand in the marketplace:

The FASB previously issued an Exposure Draft on a joint proposal with the International Accounting Standards Board, or IASB, that would significantly transform lease accounting from the existing model. These changes would impact most companies but are particularly applicable to those that are significant users of real estate. The proposal outlines a new model for accounting by lessees, whereby their rights and obligations under substantially all leases, existing and new, would be capitalized and recorded on the balance sheet.

In November 2015, the FASB directed the staff to draft a final ASU on leases for vote by written ballot. In addition, the FASB decided that for (i) public business entities, (ii) a not-for-profit entity that has issued, or is a conduit bond obligor for, securities that are traded, listed, or quoted on an exchange or an-over-the-counter market, and (iii) an employee benefit plan that files or furnishes statements with or to the SEC (collectively referred to as “public business entities”), the final leases standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years; for all other entities, the final leases standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. Early application will be permitted for all entities upon issuance of the final standard.

In the first quarter of 2016, the IASB and FASB finalized their lease standards, which brings most leases on the balance sheet for lessees under a single model. For lessors, however, the accounting remains largely unchanged and the distinction between operating and finance leases is retained. Both standards are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019.

For some companies, the new accounting guidance may influence whether or not, or the extent to which, they may enter into the type of sale-leaseback transactions in which we specialize.

We are evaluating the impact of the new standards and have not determined if they will have a material impact on our business.

Equity Method Investments

We own equity interests in net-leased properties that are generally leased to companies through noncontrolling interests (i) in partnerships and limited liability companies that we do not control but over which we exercise significant influence or (ii) as tenants-in-common subject to common control. Generally, the underlying investments are jointly-owned with affiliates. We account for these investments under the equity method of accounting. Earnings for each investment are recognized in accordance with each respective investment agreement and, where applicable, based upon an allocation of the investment’s net assets at book value as if the investment were hypothetically liquidated at the end of each reporting period. As required by current authoritative accounting guidance, we periodically compare an investment’s carrying value to its estimated fair value and recognize an impairment charge to the extent that the carrying value exceeds fair value and such decline is determined to be other than temporary. Additionally, we provide funding to developers for the ADC Arrangements. Under ADC Arrangements, we have provided two loans to third-party developers of real estate projects, which we account for as equity investments as the characteristics of the arrangement with the third-party developers are more similar to a jointly-owned investment or partnership rather than a loan.

Intangible Assets and Liabilities

In connection with our acquisitions of properties, we have recorded net lease intangibles that are being amortized over periods ranging from one year to 53 years. In addition, we have several ground lease intangibles that are being amortized over periods of up to 94 years. In-place lease intangibles and tenant relationship intangibles are included in In-place lease and tenant relationship intangible assets, net in the consolidated financial statements. Above-market rent, below-market ground lease (as lessee) intangibles, and goodwill are included in Other intangible assets, net in the consolidated financial statements. Below-market rent and above-market ground lease (as lessor) intangibles are included in Below-market rent and other intangible liabilities, net in the consolidated financial statements.

Amortization of below-market rent and above-market rent intangibles is recorded as an adjustment to Rental income; amortization of below-market ground lease and above-market ground lease intangibles is included in Property expenses; and amortization of in-place lease and tenant relationship intangibles is included in Depreciation and amortization.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The fair value of an asset is defined as the exit price, which is the amount that would either be received when an asset is sold or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The guidance establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used in measuring fair value. These tiers are: Level 1, for which quoted market prices for identical instruments are available in active markets, such as money market funds, equity securities, and U.S. Treasury securities; Level 2, for which there are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the instrument, such as certain derivative instruments, including interest rate caps, interest rate swaps, and foreign currency forward contracts; and Level 3, for securities and other derivative assets that do not fall into Level 1 or Level 2 and for which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring us to develop our own assumptions.

Derivative Assets — Our derivative assets, which are included in Other assets, net in the consolidated financial statements, are comprised of foreign currency forward contracts, stock warrants, foreign currency collars, and a swaption (Note 9). The foreign currency forward contracts, foreign currency collars, and swaption were measured at fair value using readily observable market inputs, such as quotations on interest rates, and were classified as Level 2 as these instruments are custom, over-the-counter contracts with various bank counterparties that are not traded in an active market. The stock warrants were measured at fair value using internal valuation models that incorporated market inputs and our own assumptions about future cash flows. We classified these assets as Level 3 because they are not traded in an active market.

Derivative Liabilities — Our derivative liabilities, which are included in Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the consolidated financial statements, are comprised of interest rate swaps and foreign currency collars (Note 9). The interest rate swaps and foreign currency collars were measured at fair value using readily observable market inputs, such as quotations on interest rates, and were classified as Level 2 because they are custom, over-the-counter contracts with various bank counterparties that are not traded in an active market.