Derivative Financial Instruments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Derivative Financial Instruments

Derivative Financial Instruments

12. Derivative Financial Instruments

We use derivative financial instruments to minimize the impact of foreign exchange rate changes on earnings and cash flows. In the normal course of business, our operations are exposed to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. In order to reduce the effect of fluctuating foreign currencies on short-term foreign currency-denominated intercompany transactions and other known foreign currency exposures, we enter into monthly forward contracts. We do not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Our forward contracts are not expected to subject us to material risks due to exchange rate movements because gains and losses on these contracts are intended to offset exchange gains and losses on the underlying assets and liabilities. The forward contracts are marked-to-market through earnings. We conduct our derivative transactions with highly rated financial institutions in an effort to mitigate any material counterparty risk.

The aggregate foreign currency exchange (loss) gain included in determining consolidated results of operations was approximately $(0.5) million, $(1.0) million and $1.3 million in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Included in the aggregate foreign currency exchange (loss) gain were gains relating to foreign exchange forward contracts of $0.3 million, $0.5 million and $0.1 million in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. These amounts were recognized and are included in other, net in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income.

As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the notional amount of such contracts outstanding was approximately $9.6 million and $3.6 million, respectively. The fair value of the outstanding contracts as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, was $0.2 million and $0.0 million, respectively. The fair value of the outstanding contracts is included as a component of Prepaid expenses and other current assets. These contracts were valued using market quotes in the secondary market for similar instruments (fair value Level 2, See Note 4. Fair Value Measurements).

The weighted average notional amount of derivative contracts outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 was approximately $3.5 million and $10.3 million, respectively.