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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Presentation. These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP"). Intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation. The U.S. Dollar ("USD") is our reporting currency. Unless otherwise indicated, all dollar amounts are expressed in USD.
For our consolidated subsidiaries whose functional currency is not the USD, we translate their financial statements into USD at the time we consolidate those subsidiaries’ financial statements. Generally, assets and liabilities are translated at the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date. The resulting translation adjustments are included in 'Accumulated other comprehensive income' ("AOCI") on our consolidated balance sheets. Certain balance sheet items, primarily equity and capital-related accounts, are reflected at the historical exchange rate. Income statement accounts are translated using the average exchange rate for the period.
We and certain of our consolidated subsidiaries have intercompany and third-party debt that is not denominated in our functional currency. When the debt is remeasured to the functional currency of the entity, a gain or loss can result. The resulting adjustment is reflected in 'Foreign currency and derivative gain (loss), net' in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. In the statement of cash flows, cash flows denominated in foreign currencies are translated using the exchange rates in effect at the time of the respective cash flows or at average exchange rates for the period, depending on the nature of the cash flow items.
Principles of Consolidation
Principles of Consolidation. These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Realty Income and all other entities in which we have a controlling financial interest. We evaluate whether we have a controlling financial interest in an entity in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 810, Consolidation.
Voting interest entities ("VOEs") are entities considered to have sufficient equity at risk and which the equity holders have the obligation to absorb losses, the right to receive residual returns and the right to make decisions about the entity’s activities. We consolidate voting interest entities in which we have a controlling financial interest, which we typically have through holding of a majority of the entity’s voting equity interests.
Variable Interest Entities
Variable interest entities ("VIEs") are entities that lack sufficient equity at risk or where the equity holders either do not have the obligation to absorb losses, do not have the right to receive residual returns, do not have the right to make decisions about the entity’s activities, or some combination of the above. A controlling financial interest in a VIE is present when an entity has a variable interest, or a combination of variable interests, that provides the entity with (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. An entity that meets both conditions above is deemed the primary beneficiary and consolidates the VIE. We reassess our initial evaluation of whether an entity is a VIE when certain reconsideration events occur. We reassess our determination of whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE on an ongoing basis based on current facts and circumstances.
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates. The consolidated financial statements were prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP, which requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Net Income per Common Share Net Income per Common Share. Basic net income per common share is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period. Diluted net income per common share is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders, plus income attributable to dilutive shares and convertible common units for the period, by the weighted average number of common shares that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares for all potentially dilutive common shares outstanding during the reporting period.
Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash. We consider all short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to cash and have an original maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. Restricted cash includes cash proceeds from the sale of assets held by qualified intermediaries in anticipation of the acquisition of replacement properties in tax-free exchanges under Section 1031 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, impounds related to mortgages payable and cash that is not immediately available to Realty Income (i.e. escrow deposits for future acquisitions).
Cash accounts maintained on behalf of Realty Income in demand deposits at commercial banks and money market funds may exceed federally insured levels or may be held in accounts without any federal insurance or any other insurance or guarantee. However, Realty Income has not experienced any losses in such accounts.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes. We have elected to be taxed as a real estate investment trust ("REIT"), under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. We believe we have qualified and continue to qualify as a REIT. Under the REIT operating structure, we are permitted to deduct dividends paid to our stockholders in determining our taxable income. Assuming our dividends equal or exceed our taxable net income in the U.S., we generally will not be required to pay U.S. income taxes on such income. Accordingly, no provision has been made for federal income taxes in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, except for federal income taxes of our taxable REIT subsidiaries ("TRS"). A TRS is a subsidiary of a REIT that is subject to federal, state and local income taxes, as applicable. Our use of TRS entities enables us to engage in certain business activities while complying with the REIT qualification requirements and to retain any income generated by these businesses for reinvestment without the requirement to distribute those earnings. We are liable for taxes in our applicable international territories and have made the appropriate provisions in those territories. Therefore, the income taxes recorded in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income represent amounts for U.S. income taxes on our TRS entities, city and state income and franchise taxes, as well as income taxes for the applicable international territories.
We recognize deferred income tax in our taxable subsidiaries, including certain international jurisdictions. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are generally the result of temporary differences between book and tax accounting, such as timing differences caused by different useful lives used for depreciation. We provide for a valuation allowance for deferred income tax assets if we believe some or all of the deferred income tax assets may not be realized. As of December 31, 2024, we had $3.5 million of net deferred tax liabilities, which are reported in 'Other liabilities' on our consolidated balance sheets.
Earnings and profits that determine the taxability of distributions to stockholders differ from net income reported for financial reporting purposes primarily due to differences in the estimated useful lives and methods used to compute depreciation and the carrying value (basis) of the investments in properties for tax purposes, among other things.
We regularly analyze our various international, federal and state filing positions and only recognize the income tax effect in our financial statements when certain criteria regarding uncertain income tax positions have been met. We believe that our income tax positions would more likely than not be sustained upon examination by all relevant taxing authorities. Therefore, no provisions for uncertain tax positions have been recorded on our consolidated financial statements.
Lease Revenue Recognition and Accounts Receivable
Lease Revenue Recognition and Accounts Receivable. The majority of our leases are accounted for as operating leases. Under this method, leases that have fixed and determinable rent increases are recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Any rental revenue contingent upon our client’s sales, or percentage rent, is recognized only after our client exceeds their sales breakpoint. Rental increases based upon changes in the consumer price indices are recognized only after the changes in the indexes have occurred and are then applied according to the lease agreements. Contractually obligated rental revenue from our clients for recoverable real estate taxes and operating expenses are included in contractually obligated reimbursements by our clients, a component of rental revenue, in the period when such costs are incurred. Taxes and operating expenses paid directly by our clients are recorded on a net basis.
Other revenue includes certain property-related revenue not included in rental revenue and interest income recognized on financing receivables for certain leases with above-market terms.
We assess the probability of collecting substantially all of the lease payments to which we are entitled under the original lease contract as required under ASC 842, Leases. We assess the collectability of our future lease payments based on an analysis of creditworthiness, economic trends and other facts and circumstances related to the applicable clients. If we conclude the collection of substantially all of lease payments under a lease is less than probable, rental revenue recognized for that lease is limited to cash received going forward, existing operating lease receivables, including those related to straight-line rental revenue, must be written off as an adjustment to rental revenue, and no further operating lease receivables are recorded for that lease until such future determination is made that substantially all lease payments under that lease are now considered probable. If we subsequently conclude that the collection of substantially all lease payments under a lease is probable, a reversal of lease receivables previously written off is recognized.
Loans Receivable and Financing Receivables
Loans Receivable. Our acquired loans are classified as held for investment and are carried at their amortized cost basis. We recognize interest income on loans receivable using a method that approximates the effective-interest method. Direct costs associated with originating loans, along with any premium or discount, are deferred and amortized as an adjustment to interest income over the term of the loan using the effective interest method. When management identifies the full recovery of the contractually specified payments of principal and interest of a loan is less than probable, we evaluate the expected loss amount and place it on non-accrual status. We made the accounting policy election to record accrued interest on our loan portfolio separate from our loan receivable and other lending investments. These loans and the related interest receivable are presented in 'Other assets, net' on our consolidated balance sheets.
Financing Receivables. For properties we acquire that qualify as sale-leaseback transactions and for which the purchase price is in excess of the fair value of the real estate acquired, the difference is accounted for as financing receivables, presented within 'Other assets, net' on our consolidated balance sheets. Rent payments are allocated between rental income and the financing receivable. Interest income on the financing receivable is recognized using the interest rate implicit in the leaseback and presented within 'Other' revenue in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
Allowance for Credit Losses
Allowance for Credit Losses. The allowance for credit losses, which is recorded as a reduction to loans receivable and financing receivable within 'Other assets, net' on our consolidated balance sheets, is measured using a probability of default method based on our clients' respective credit ratings, our historical experience, and the expected value of the underlying collateral upon its repossession. If we determine a financing receivable no longer shares risk characteristics with other financing receivables in the pool, we evaluate the financing receivable for expected credit losses on an individual basis. Included in our model are factors that incorporate forward-looking information. Changes in our allowance for credit losses are presented in 'Provisions for impairment' in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. For further details, see note 6, Investments in Loans and Financing Receivables.
Merger, Transaction, and Other Costs Merger, Transaction, and Other Costs, Net. Merger, transaction, and other costs, net include (i) merger-related transaction costs, primarily consisting of employee severance, post-combination share-based compensation, transfer taxes, and various professional fees directly attributable to a merger, (ii) organization costs for potential strategic ventures and business lines, (iii) corporate facilities lease termination costs, and (iv) other costs that do not align with the ongoing operations of our business.
Gain on Sales of Real Estate Gain on Sales of Real Estate. When real estate is sold, the carrying amount of the applicable assets is derecognized with a corresponding gain from the sale recognized in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. We record a gain on sale of real estate pursuant to provisions under ASC 610-20, Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets. We determine whether we would have a controlling financial interest in the property after the sale. We record a gain from the sale of real estate provided that various criteria, relating to the terms of the sale and any subsequent involvement by us with the real estate, have been met.
Allocation of the Purchase Price of Real Estate Acquisitions
Allocation of the Purchase Price of Real Estate Acquisitions. We evaluate whether or not substantially all of the fair value of acquired assets is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or group of identifiable assets to determine whether a transaction is accounted for as an asset acquisition or a business combination. As the fair value of most of our real estate acquisitions is concentrated in either a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, our real estate transactions are generally accounted for as asset acquisitions, and the transaction costs associated with those acquisitions are capitalized to the basis of the acquired properties. Any difference between the total cost and estimated fair value of an asset acquisition is allocated to the real estate properties (i.e., land and buildings/improvements) and related lease intangibles (i.e., in-place lease and any related off-market terms) on a relative fair value basis. All other assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at fair value.
For business combinations, on the other hand, we expense the transaction costs and categorize them as 'Merger, transaction, and other costs, net' in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. All assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are recorded at fair value. The amount of any purchase consideration that exceeds the fair value of all identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recognized as goodwill. To the extent that the purchase price is less than the fair value, however, a gain on bargain purchase is recognized. As permitted under ASC 805, Business Combinations, we may record measurement period adjustments within one year of the acquisition date.
Whether a transaction is accounted for as an asset acquisition or business combination, the measurement of fair value is based on management's judgment and various factors, including market land and building values, market rental rates, discount rates, and capitalization rates. Our methodology for measuring and allocating the fair value of real estate acquisitions includes both observable market data (categorized as level 2 on the three-level valuation hierarchy of ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement), and unobservable inputs that reflect our own internal assumptions (categorized as level 3 under ASC 820). Given the significance of the unobservable inputs, we believe the allocations of fair value of real estate acquisitions should be categorized as level 3 under ASC 820. From time to time, we have used, and may continue to use, the assistance of independent third parties specializing in real estate valuations to prepare our purchase price allocations.
The allocation of tangible assets (which includes land and buildings/improvements) of an acquired property with an in-place lease is based upon fair value. Land is typically valued utilizing the sales comparison (or market) approach. Buildings and improvements are typically valued under the replacement cost approach. Operating properties may be valued using the direct capitalization method, a type of income approach where a capitalization rate is applied to the stabilized estimated net operating income of a property. The determined fair value of each property is then allocated to land, building, and improvements at a property level. In allocating the fair value to identified intangibles for above-market or below-market leases, an amount is recorded based on the present value of the difference between (i) the contractual amount to be paid pursuant to the in-place lease and (ii) our estimate of fair market lease rate for the corresponding in-place lease, measured over the remaining assumed contract term of the lease. The value of in-place leases is determined by our estimated costs related to acquiring a client and the carrying costs that would be incurred over the vacancy period to locate a client if the property were vacant, considering market conditions and costs to execute similar leases at the time of acquisition.
The values of the above-market and below-market leases are amortized over the term of the respective leases, including any bargain renewal options, as an adjustment to rental revenue in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. The value of in-place leases, exclusive of the value of above-market and below-market
in-place leases, is amortized to depreciation and amortization expense over the remaining periods of the respective leases. If a lease is terminated prior to its stated expiration, all unamortized amounts relating to that lease are recorded to revenue or expense as appropriate.
Real Estate and Lease Intangibles Held for Sale
Real Estate and Lease Intangibles Held for Sale. We generally reclassify assets to held for sale when the disposition has been approved, there are no known contingencies relating to the sale and the consummation of the disposition is considered probable within one year. Upon classifying a real estate investment as held for sale, we will no longer recognize depreciation expense related to the depreciable assets of the property. Assets held for sale are recorded at the lower of carrying value or estimated fair value, less the estimated cost to dispose of the assets. Thirty-six properties were classified as held for sale at December 31, 2024.
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 will reclassify the property as held for investment. We measure and record a property that is reclassified as held for investment at the lower of (i) its carrying value 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 for investment or (ii) the estimated fair value at the date of the subsequent decision not to sell.
Investment in Unconsolidated Entities
Investment in Unconsolidated Entities. Investments in unconsolidated entities of which we are not considered the primary beneficiary, include VIEs and are accounted for using the equity method as we have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financing policies of these investments. We initially recognize the fair value of our contribution as an equity method investment. We subsequently adjust these balances for our proportionate share of net earnings/losses of the entities, distributions received, and contributions made. Transaction costs related to the formation of equity method investments are also capitalized, resulting in a basis difference. This basis difference is amortized over the estimated useful life of the respective underlying assets and/or liabilities. The carrying value of our investment is included in 'Investment in unconsolidated entities' on our consolidated balance sheets. We record our proportionate share of net income from the unconsolidated entities in 'Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities' in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. With regard to distributions from unconsolidated entities, we have elected the nature of distribution approach as the information is available to us to determine the nature of the underlying activity that generated the distributions. In accordance with such approach, cash flows generated from the operations of an unconsolidated entity are classified as a return on investment (cash inflow from operating activities) and cash flows that are generated from other activities, such as property sales, debt refinancing or sale and redemptions of our investments are classified as a return of investment (cash inflow from investing activities). Our contribution to the unconsolidated entities or any distributions from them as returns of investment are classified as investing activities.
Our investment in unconsolidated entities includes preferred interests. Upon acquisition, we assess whether such investment should be considered debt or equity securities based on investment terms. As of December 31, 2024, our investment balance includes preferred interests classified as equity securities without a readily determinable fair value, for which we elect to apply the measurement alternative and record the value of the investment at cost, less any applicable impairment.
Goodwill
Goodwill. Upon the closing 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. In connection with the Merger, we recorded goodwill as a result of consideration exceeding the net assets acquired. For further details, see note 2, Merger with Spirit Realty Capital, Inc.
Deferred Financing Costs Deferred Financing Costs. Deferred financing costs represent commitment fees, legal fees and other costs associated with obtaining or originating financing. Deferred financing costs, other than those associated with the line of credit, are presented on our consolidated balance sheets as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the related debt liability. Deferred financing costs related to the line of credit are included in 'Other assets, net' in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. These costs are amortized to interest expense over the terms of the respective financing agreements that approximates the effective interest method.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and Amortization. Land, buildings and improvements are recorded and stated at cost. Major replacements and betterments, which improve or extend the life of the asset, are capitalized and depreciated over their estimated useful lives, while ordinary repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Buildings and improvements that are under redevelopment, or are being developed, are carried at cost and no depreciation is recorded on these assets. Additionally, amounts essential to the development of the property, such as pre-
construction, development, construction, interest and other costs incurred during the period of development are capitalized. We cease capitalization when the property is available for occupancy upon substantial completion of property improvements to accommodate the client's use, but in any event no later than one year from the completion of major construction activity.
Provisions for Impairment
Provisions for Impairment - Real Estate Assets. We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If estimated future operating cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) plus estimated disposition proceeds (undiscounted) are less than the current book value of the property, a fair value analysis is performed and, to the extent the estimated fair value is less than the current book value, a provision for impairment is recorded to reduce the book value to estimated fair value. Key assumptions that we utilize in this analysis include projected rental rates, estimated holding periods, capital expenditures and property sales capitalization rates. For further details, see note 12, Fair Value Measurements.
Provisions for Impairment - Goodwill. Goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to impairment reviews annually, or more frequently if necessary. Goodwill is qualitatively assessed to determine whether a quantitative impairment assessment is necessary. Impairment is the condition that exists when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value. If the carrying value of the asset exceeds its estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recognized, and the asset is written down to its estimated fair value. We perform our annual goodwill impairment assessment as of June 30. During the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, there were no impairments of goodwill.
Provisions for Impairment - Investment in Unconsolidated Entities. During our ownership of properties that are accounted for under the equity method and considered unconsolidated entities, and when circumstances indicate that a decrease in the value of an equity method investment has occurred that is other than temporary, we recognize an impairment loss, which requires significant judgment. To determine whether the impairment loss is other-than-temporary, we consider whether we have the ability and intent to hold the investment until the carrying value is fully recovered. We evaluate the impairment of our investment in unconsolidated entities in accordance with accounting standards for equity investments by first reviewing each investment for indicators of impairment. If indicators are present, we estimate the fair value of the investments. If the carrying value of the investment is greater than the estimated fair value, we make an assessment of whether the impairment is temporary or other-than-temporary. In making this assessment, we consider the length of time and the extent to which fair value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the entity, and our intent and ability to retain the interest long enough for a recovery in market value. The investment is then reduced to its estimated fair value if conclusions indicate the impairment is other than temporary.
Equity Offering Costs
Equity Offering Costs. Underwriting commissions and offering costs have been reflected as a reduction of additional paid-in-capital on our consolidated balance sheets.
Newly Issued Accounting Standards and Recent Adopted Accounting Standards
Newly Issued Accounting Standards.
In November 2024, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2024-03, Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income—Expense Disaggregation Disclosures, requiring all public business entities to provide additional disclosure of the nature of expenses included in the income statement. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and for interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027, on a prospective basis, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact on our financial statement disclosures.
In December 2023, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2023-09, Income Taxes, to enhance income tax disclosures, provide more information about tax risks and opportunities present in worldwide operations, and to disaggregate existing income tax disclosures. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024 on a prospective basis, with the option to apply the standard retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact on our financial statement disclosures.
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards.
The Company adopted ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting, during the fourth quarter of 2024, which established improvements to reportable segments disclosures to enhance segment reporting under Topic 280. This ASU was intended to change how public entities identify and aggregate operating segments and apply quantitative thresholds to determine their reportable segments. This ASU also required public entities that operate as a single reportable segment to provide all segment disclosures in Topic 280, not just entity level disclosures. Refer to note 20, Segment and Geographic Information, for our updated disclosure.
Derivative Instruments
Derivative and Hedging Activities. Derivatives are financial arrangements among two or more parties with returns linked to or “derived” from an underlying equity, debt, commodity, other asset, liability, interest rate, foreign exchange rate or another index, or the occurrence or nonoccurrence of a specified event. The settlement of a derivative is determined by its underlying notional amount specified in the contract. Derivative contracts may be entered into outright or embedded within a non-derivative host contract, and may be listed, traded on exchanges or privately negotiated directly between two parties.
We actively manage interest rate and foreign currency exposures arising from our liquidity and funding activities using derivative instruments. We record all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. The majority of inputs used to value our derivatives fall within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The recognition of changes in the fair
value of derivatives is recorded in net income unless the derivative is designated as a cash flow or net investment hedge, in which case the change in fair value is recorded in other comprehensive income and subsequently reclassified to a designated account in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income in the periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings.
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow Hedges
We enter into foreign currency forward contracts to sell GBP and EUR and buy USD to hedge the foreign currency risk associated with interest payments on intercompany loans denominated in GBP and EUR. Forward points on the forward contracts are included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness. We also execute variable-to-fixed interest rate swaps and use interest rate swaption agreements to add stability to interest expense and to manage our exposure to interest rate movements associated with our term loans or forecasted transactions. When it is probable that the forecasted transaction will not occur by the end of the specific time period or within an additional two-month period thereafter, the net derivative instrument gain or loss and any gains and losses that were reported in AOCI pursuant to the hedge of a forecasted transaction are recognized immediately in earnings through the caption entitled 'Interest' in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value Hedges
Periodically, we enter into and designate fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risk by managing our mix of fixed-rate and variable-rate debt. These swaps involve the receipt of fixed-rate amounts for variable interest rate payments over the life of the swaps without exchange of the underlying principal amount. We also designate some of our cross-currency swaps as fair value hedges as we use them to hedge foreign currency risk associated with changes in spot rates on foreign-denominated debt. For these hedging instruments, we have elected to exclude the change in fair value of the cross-currency swaps related to both time value and cross-currency basis spread from the assessment of hedge effectiveness (the "excluded component"). Changes in the fair value of the cross-currency swaps attributable to these excluded components are recorded to other comprehensive income and subsequently recognized in 'Foreign currency and derivative gain (loss), net' on a systematic and rational basis, as net cash settlements and interest accruals on the respective cross currency swaps occur, over the remaining life of the hedging instruments.
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Net Investment Hedges
To mitigate the foreign currency exchange rate variations associated with our investment in EUR-denominated foreign operations, we may enter into derivative instruments, such as cross-currency swaps that qualify as net investment hedges under the criteria prescribed in accordance with ASC 815-20, Hedging - General. We use the spot method of assessing hedge effectiveness and apply the consistent election to the excluded component by recognizing changes in the fair value of the hedging instruments attributable to the excluded component in the same manner as described above. Any difference between the change in the fair value of the excluded components and the amounts recognized in earnings is reported in other comprehensive income as part of the foreign cumulative translation adjustment. The gain or loss on the portion of the derivative instruments included in the assessment of effectiveness is reported in other comprehensive income as part of the 'Foreign currency translation adjustment' line item, to the extent the relationship is highly effective. If our net investment changes during a reporting period, the hedge relationship will be assessed for whether a de-designation is warranted (only if the hedge notional amount is outside of prescribed tolerance). Further, certain EUR-denominated bonds and borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loans (all as defined in notes 7 and 8, respectively) may be also designated as, and are effective as, net investment hedges. Changes in the value of such borrowings, related to changes in the spot rates, will be recorded in the same manner as foreign currency translation adjustments. As of December 31, 2024, the total principal amount of foreign currency debt obligations designated as net investment hedges was $59.9 million.
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
We enter into foreign currency exchange swap agreements to reduce the effects of currency exchange rate fluctuations between the USD, our reporting currency, and GBP and EUR. These derivative contracts generally mature within one year and are not designated as hedge instruments for accounting purposes. As the currency exchange swap is not accounted for as a hedging instrument, the change in fair value is recorded in earnings through the caption entitled 'Foreign currency and derivative gain (loss), net' in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.