Variable Interest Entities

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]

Variable Interest Entities

Variable Interest Entities

Unconsolidated VIEs

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, we have several unconsolidated VIEs.  We do not consolidate these entities because we are not the primary beneficiary and the nature of our involvement in the activities of these entities does not give us power over decisions that significantly affect these entities’ economic performance.  We account for our investment in these entities under the equity method (see Note 5 – Investments in Partially Owned Entities).  As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the net carrying amount of our investments in these entities was $352,925,000 and $392,150,000, respectively, and our maximum exposure to loss in these entities, is limited to our investments.

Consolidated VIEs

Our most significant consolidated VIEs are the Operating Partnership (for Vornado), real estate fund investments, and certain properties that have non-controlling interests.  These entities are VIEs because the non-controlling interests do not have substantive kick-out or participating rights.  We consolidate these entities because we control all significant business activities.

As of December 31, 2017, the total assets and liabilities of our consolidated VIEs, excluding the Operating Partnership, were $3,561,062,000 and $1,753,798,000 respectively. As of December 31, 2016, the total assets and liabilities of our consolidated VIEs, excluding the Operating Partnership, were $3,638,483,000 and $1,762,322,000, respectively.