DERIVATIVES

We are exposed to foreign currency exchange risk resulting from fluctuations in exchange rates, primarily the U.S. dollar to the euro, the U.S. dollar to the Canadian dollar and, to a lesser extent, other currencies, arising from inter-company and third party transactions entered into by our subsidiaries that are denominated in currencies other than their functional currency. Changes in exchange rates with respect to these transactions result in unrealized gains or losses if such transactions are unsettled at the end of the reporting period or realized gains or losses at settlement of the transaction. During the third quarter of 2017, we began using foreign currency forward contracts to offset foreign exchange rate fluctuations on foreign currency denominated asset and liability positions. None of these contracts are designated as accounting hedges, and all changes in the fair value of the forward contracts are recognized in "Other expense, net" within our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

We execute derivatives with a specialized foreign exchange brokerage firm. The primary credit risk inherent in derivative agreements represents the possibility that a loss may occur from the nonperformance of a counterparty to the agreements, and thus we perform a review of the credit risk of our counterparties at the inception of the contract and on an ongoing basis. We anticipate that our counterparties will be able to fully satisfy their obligations under the agreements but will take action if doubt arises regarding the counterparties' ability to perform.

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the notional amounts of the forward currency contracts the Company held were $22,860 and $7,008, respectively. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the fair values of outstanding foreign currency forward contracts were $0.

The gain or loss recognized on derivatives is as follows for the years ended December 31:



Derivative type	Income Statement Location	2019			2018			2017
Foreign currency contracts	Other expense, net	$	(969	)	$	(77	)	$	(157	)