Business Combinations

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Business Combinations

Business Combinations

Our investments in businesses were: (a) $4,888 in 2016, including liabilities assumed of $216 and debt issued of $875; (b) $4,149 in 2015, including no liabilities assumed and debt issued of $1,500; and (c) $12,853 in 2014, including $1,078 liabilities assumed and debt issued of $2,080.

The net assets of the businesses acquired are accounted for under the acquisition method and were recorded at their fair values at the dates of acquisition. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the net assets acquired was recorded as an increase in goodwill of approximately $817 in 2016 (all of which is deductible for tax purposes), $1,410 in 2015 (all of which is deductible for tax purposes) and $4,624 goodwill in 2014 (all of which is deductible for tax purposes).

The results of operations of acquired businesses have been included in the consolidated statements of operations beginning as of the effective dates of acquisition. The effect of these acquisitions on our consolidated revenues and results of operations, either individually or in the aggregate, for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014 was not significant.

Investment in Business Subsequent to December 31, 2016--Subsequent to December 31, 2016 and through March 13, 2017, we made an investment in a business approximating $975 with no liabilities assumed and debt issued of $375.