Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Description of the Business

We are a leading developer of technology‑based products and services and associated content for the worldwide gaming and lottery industries. Our portfolio includes gaming machines and game content, instant and draw‑based lottery games, server‑based gaming and lottery systems, casino management systems, table game products and services, sports betting technology, loyalty and rewards programs and interactive gaming and lottery content and services. We also gain access to technologies and pursue global expansion through strategic acquisitions and equity investments. As a result of our recent acquisitions of Bally and WMS, we have significantly expanded our global gaming business. We report our operations in three business segments—Gaming, Lottery and Interactive.

Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with SEC and U.S. GAAP requirements. All monetary values set forth in these financial statements are in United States dollars ("USD" or "$") unless otherwise stated herein. The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, as well as those subsidiaries in which we have a controlling financial interest. Investments in other entities in which we do not have a controlling financial interest but we exert significant influence are accounted for in our consolidated financial statements using the equity method of accounting. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. We have evaluated subsequent events through the date these financial statements were issued. In the opinion of management, we have made all adjustments necessary to present fairly our consolidated financial position, results of operations and comprehensive loss and cash flows for the periods presented. Such adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature.

On March 25, 2013, we completed the sale of our installed base of gaming machines in our pub business as discussed in Note 3 (Acquisitions and Dispositions). The results of the discontinued pub operations for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 are presented herein in accordance with ASC 205. There were no results of operations for this discontinued business for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and 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. Some of the significant estimates involve revenue recognition estimates for contracted lottery systems projects and multi-deliverable contract arrangements, stock-based and/or performance-based compensation expense, evaluation of the recoverability of assets, assessment of legal and other contingencies, allocation of the purchase price to assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations, and income and other taxes. Actual results could differ from estimates.

Revenue Recognition

General

We evaluate the recognition of revenue based on the criteria set forth in ASC 605, Revenue Recognition ("ASC 605") and ASC 985, Software ("ASC 985").

Our revenue recognition policy is to record revenue when all the following criteria are met:


•	persuasive evidence of an agreement exists;


•	the price to the customer is fixed or determinable;


•	delivery has occurred, title has been transferred and any acceptance terms have been fulfilled; and


•	collectability is reasonably assured.

We sometimes generate revenue under multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements, under which we provide more than one product or service in a single arrangement. At the inception of a multiple-deliverable revenue arrangement, we are required to allocate the consideration to all deliverables based on their relative selling price (the "relative selling price method"). When applying the relative selling price method, a hierarchy is used for estimating the selling price based first on vendor-specific objective evidence ("VSOE"), then third-party evidence ("TPE") and finally management’s estimated selling price ("ESP").

Our multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements include gaming equipment arrangements that involve the sale of gaming machines and game content conversion kits. In addition, we may enter into arrangements with customers for the implementation of systems, which will generally include a combination of systems software, systems-based hardware products, maintenance and product support and professional services. We recognize revenue only when all of the criteria listed above are met. We defer revenue for any undelivered units of accounting. Deliverables are divided into separate units of accounting if:


•	each item has value to the customer on a stand-alone basis; and


•	delivery of any undelivered item is considered probable and substantially in our control.

In allocating consideration under the relative selling price hierarchy, the Company generally uses VSOE for all products that have been sold on a stand-alone basis. As TPE is generally not available, the Company uses ESP for products that are not sold on a stand-alone basis and for recently introduced products that are sold on a stand-alone basis but for which a history of stand-alone sales has not yet been developed. Following these guidelines, in allocating the consideration under multi-deliverable revenue arrangements, we use either VSOE or ESP for gaming machines, table game products, systems-based hardware products, maintenance and product support (associated with perpetual licenses) and professional services. The Company uses ESP for perpetual and time-based software licenses and maintenance and product support associated with time-based licenses.

The establishment of VSOE requires judgment as to whether there is a sufficient quantity of items sold on a stand-alone basis or substantive post-contract customer support ("PCS") contract renewals and whether the prices or PCS renewal rates demonstrate an appropriate level of concentration to conclude that VSOE exists. In determining ESP, management considers a variety of information including historic pricing and discounting practices, competitive market activity, internal costs, and the pricing and discounting practices of products sold in similar arrangements.

Revenue is reported net of incentive rebates, discounts, sales taxes and all other items of a similar nature. For products sold under arrangements with extended payment terms the probability of collection is evaluated based on a review of the customer's creditworthiness and a review of historic collection experience under contracts with extended payment terms. As a result of such review, we recognize revenue on extended payment term arrangements when we have determined that collectability is reasonably assured and the price is considered fixed and determinable.

In addition to the general policies discussed above, the following are the specific revenue recognition policies for our revenue streams within each of our three business segments.

Gaming

We design, develop, manufacture, market and distribute gaming machines, VLTs, server-based gaming machines, systems and game content, casino-management systems hardware and software, table game products (including utility products and PTG content), video lottery central monitoring and control systems and wide area systems networks. We provide products and services for the traditional land-based commercial and Native American casino industry, and for wide area gaming operators (such as LBO, arcade and bingo operators in the U.K. and continental Europe) and government-affiliated gaming operators such as lotteries and gaming regulators.

We earn services revenue from leasing gaming machines, table game products and VLTs to casinos and other gaming operators under operating leases. We also generate revenue from placing our networked gaming system and applications, which is a turnkey offering that typically includes gaming machines, remote management of game content, central computer systems, secure data communication and field support services, under operating leases.

•

Revenue from leasing gaming machines and VLTs to casinos and other gaming operators under operating leases is based upon: (1) a percentage of the casino’s net win; (2) fixed daily fees; (3) a percentage of the amount wagered (coin-in); or (4) a combination of a fixed daily fee and a percentage of the coin-in. We recognize revenue from these operating leases on a daily basis. We do not consider these arrangements to have multiple revenue-generating activities as the services offered constitute a comprehensive solution in exchange for a daily fee and all of the products and services are delivered contemporaneously. Therefore, revenue is recognized under general revenue recognition guidance as the products and services provide the customer with the right to use the gaming machines and software that is essential to the functionality of the gaming machine.

•

Revenue from the provision of server-based gaming machines, systems and game content under arrangements with wide-area gaming operators (such as LBO operators in the U.K.) is generally recognized as a percentage of net win generated by our gaming machines (subject to certain adjustments as may be specified in a particular contract, including adjustments for taxes and other fees) over the term of the arrangement. We do not consider these arrangements to have multiple revenue-generating activities as the services offered constitute a comprehensive solution in exchange for a percentage of net win and all of the products and field services are delivered contemporaneously.

•

Revenue from leasing table game products, including automatic card shufflers, deck checkers and roulette chip sorters and licensing PTG content, is earned based on a fixed monthly rate. Service revenue for leased table game products and licensed PTG content is recognized under general revenue recognition guidance as the products and services provide the customer with the right to use the table product and license that is essential to the functionality of the table product.


•	Revenue from casino-management system implementation services is recognized when the system implementation is complete as the implementation services are not considered to have stand-alone value and are therefore not a separate unit of accounting. Other professional services not related to system implementation are recognized as the services are provided.

Our product sales include the sale of gaming machines, casino-management systems and table game products to casinos, wide-area gaming operators and other gaming operators, as well as sales of VLTs, conversion kits (including game, hardware or operating system conversions), parts and game content.

•

Revenue from the sale of gaming machines, table game products and content under wide-area gaming operator contracts is recognized pursuant to the terms of the contract. Sales of gaming machines and table game products are also recorded pursuant to ASC 605 as the software and non-software components of our gaming machines and table products function together to deliver the product's essential functionality. Game content conversion kits are considered software deliverables and are recognized in accordance with software revenue recognition guidance.

•

Revenue from casino-management systems software and maintenance and product support is recognized under software revenue recognition guidance. Although the casino-management systems software and certain systems-based hardware products function together, the functionality of casino-management systems software is primarily derived from the software. The casino-management systems software is not essential to the functionality of the system-based hardware products.

•

The Company licenses casino-management systems software on a perpetual basis or under time-based licenses. Revenue from perpetual license software is recognized at the inception of the license term provided all revenue recognition criteria have been satisfied. Revenue from maintenance and product support sold with perpetual licenses is recognized over the term of the support period. The Company’s time-based licenses are generally for 12-month terms and are bundled with software maintenance and product support. All revenue from such arrangements is recognized over the term of the license.

•

Revenue from systems-based hardware products include embedded software that is essential to the functionality of the hardware. Accordingly, revenue related to all systems-based hardware sales and related maintenance and product support is recognized under general revenue recognition guidance and is generally recognized upon delivery when title and risk of loss have passed to the customer and all other revenue recognition criteria are satisfied. However, in the case of arrangements involving a systems installation, revenue on the systems-based hardware is generally not recognized until the system has been installed and the customer has accepted the system.


•	Revenue from the sale of gaming machines, VLTs, conversion kits (including game, hardware or operating system conversions) and parts to casinos and other gaming operators is recognized based on the general revenue recognition policy stated above. These sales are recorded net of any incentive rebates, discounts and applicable sales taxes.

Lottery

We generate revenue from the manufacturing and sale of instant games, as well as the provision of value-added services such as game design, sales and marketing support, specialty games and promotions, inventory management, warehousing, fulfillment services, as well as full instant game category management. We also provide licensed games, promotional entertainment and internet-based services to the lottery industry.

In addition, we are a leading provider of lottery systems, including customized computer software, software support, point-of-sale terminals and equipment and data communication services to lotteries. In the U.S., we typically provide the necessary point-of sale and other equipment, software and maintenance services pursuant to long-term contracts that typically have an initial term of at least five years under which we are generally paid a fee equal to a percentage of the lottery's total retail sales. Our U.S. contracts typically contain multiple renewal options that generally have been exercised by our customers in the past. Internationally, we typically sell point-of-sale terminals and equipment/or computer software to lottery authorities and may provide ongoing fee-based systems and software support services.

Our instant games revenue is primarily generated under long-term contracts to supply instant games and provide related services to our lottery customers. We also generate instant games revenue under our licensed properties game contracts, which are generally instant game-specific and therefore short-term and non-recurring. The following are specific revenue recognition policies for our instant games revenue:


•	Revenue from the sale of instant games that are sold on a price-per-unit basis is recognized when the customer accepts the product pursuant to the terms of the contract.

•

Revenue from the sale of instant games that are sold on a participation basis is recognized as retail sales are generated. We do not consider these arrangements to have multiple revenue-generating activities as the services offered are a comprehensive solution in exchange for participation-based compensation and all of the products and services are delivered contemporaneously; accordingly, this revenue is recognized under general revenue recognition guidance.

•

Revenue from sublicensing brands coupled with a service component whereby we purchase and distribute merchandise prizes to identified winners on behalf of lotteries is recognized as a multiple-deliverable arrangement. There are typically two deliverables in this arrangement—the license and the merchandising services—which are separate units of accounting. We allocate revenue to the deliverables in accordance with the relative selling price method prescribed in ASC 605. If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exists for a deliverable, we use an ESP for that deliverable. Revenue allocated to the license is determined using ESP based on the rates we charge when we license branded property on a stand-alone basis and is recognized when the use of the licensed property is permitted, which is typically when the contract is signed. Revenue allocated to the merchandising services is determined using ESP, which is generally based on a cost-plus margin approach taking into account a variety of company-specific factors, including pricing models, internal costs and minimum operating margin requirements. Revenue from merchandising services is recognized on a proportional performance method as this method best reflects the pattern in which the obligations of the merchandising services to the customer are fulfilled. A performance measure is used based on total estimated cost allocated to the merchandising services. By accumulating costs for services as they are incurred, and dividing such costs by the total costs of merchandising services, which is estimated based on a budget prior to contract inception, a percentage is determined. This percentage is applied to the revenue allocated to the merchandising services and that proportionate amount of revenue is recognized.


•	Revenue from the licensing of branded property with no service component is recognized when the contract is signed.


•	Revenue from our loyalty and reward programs is typically based on a percentage of a lottery's prize payout structure calculated as a percentage of retail sales. Revenue is recognized as retail sales are generated.

Our Lottery segment offers our customers a number of related, value-added services as part of an integrated product offering. These services include lottery systems, including point-of-sale terminals and other equipment, software, data communication services and support and instant game validation systems, as well as software, hardware and related services for sports wagering and keno systems. The following are specific revenue recognition policies for policies for our service revenue within our Lottery segment:


•	Revenue from the provision of lottery system services provided on a participation basis is recognized when the retail sales of draw lottery games are generated.


•	Revenue from the perpetual licensing of customized lottery software is recognized under the percentage of completion method of accounting, based on the ratio of costs incurred to estimated costs to complete.


•	Revenue derived from software maintenance on lottery software and hardware maintenance on lottery terminals is recognized ratably over the maintenance period.

Our Lottery segment generates product sales revenue from the sale of lottery systems, terminals and prepaid phone cards.


•	Revenue from the sale of a lottery system services is recognized under the percentage of completion method of accounting, based on the ratio of costs incurred to estimated costs to complete.


•	Revenue from the sale of lottery terminals is recognized when the customer accepts the product pursuant to the terms of the contract. Sales of lottery terminals are recorded pursuant to ASC 605 as the software and non-software components of our lottery terminals function together to deliver the product's essential functionality.


•	Revenue from the sale of prepaid phone cards is recognized when the customer accepts the product pursuant to the terms of the contract.

Interactive

Our Interactive segment generates revenue from social gaming and interactive RMG services. We generate revenue by offering play-for-fun social games on Facebook, GooglePlay for Android devices, Apple’s iOS platform, Kindle platform and Microsoft Windows 8. We also offer our games on third-party interactive RMG casino websites, which are integrated with our remote game servers.

Services


•	In social gaming, we earn revenue from the sale of virtual coins or chips, which is recorded when the purchased coins or chips are used by the customer. We also host play-for-fun and play-for-free services and earn revenue based on fixed fees, a share of the proceeds from the sale of virtual coins, or a mix of fixed fees and a share of such proceeds.


•	For RMG, we typically earn a percentage of the operator’s net gaming revenue generated by their players playing the games we host. We also host on-premises interactive gaming for certain customers and earn revenue based on fixed fees, a revenue share with our online casino-customer, or a mix of fixed fees and revenue share.


•	Revenue from hosting game content for RMG sites from our remote game servers and from our social games is recorded on a gross basis. Processing fees charged by platform providers are recorded in cost of services.

Deferred revenue and deferred cost of revenue

Deferred revenue arises from the timing differences between the shipment or installation of gaming equipment and systems products and the satisfaction of all revenue recognition criteria consistent with the Company's revenue recognition policy, as well as prepayment of contracts which are recognized ratably over a service period, such as maintenance or licensing revenue. Deferred cost of revenue consists of the direct costs associated with the manufacture of gaming equipment and systems products for which revenue has been deferred. Deferred revenue and deferred cost of revenue expected to be realized within one year are classified as current liabilities and current assets, respectively.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include all cash balances and highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less. We place our temporary cash investments with high credit quality financial institutions. At times, such investments in U.S. accounts may be in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limit.

Restricted Cash

We are required by gaming regulations to maintain sufficient reserves in restricted cash accounts to be used for the purpose of funding payments to WAP jackpot winners. Restricted cash accounts are based primarily on the jackpot meters displayed to slot players and vary by jurisdiction. Compliance with maintaining adequate restricted cash balances and complying with appropriate investment guidelines for jackpot funding is periodically reported to gaming authorities. The aggregate current and non-current restricted cash was $44.0 million and $10.9 million, respectively, at December 31, 2014 and 2013 primarily consisted of restricted cash required to fund WAP jackpot payments.

Accounts Receivable and Notes Receivable, net

Accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful accounts is our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in our existing accounts receivable. Changes in circumstances relating to accounts receivable may result in the need to increase or decrease our allowance for doubtful accounts in the future. We determine the allowance based on historical experience, current market trends and, for larger customer accounts, our assessment of the ability of the customers to pay outstanding balances. We continually review our allowance for doubtful accounts. Past due balances and other higher risk amounts are reviewed individually for collectability. Account balances are charged against the allowance after all collection efforts have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote.

In our Gaming product sales business, we file liens on a significant portion of our domestic accounts and notes receivable to secure our interest in the gaming machines underlying the accounts and notes receivable until the receivable balance is fully paid. However, the value of the gaming machines, if repossessed, may be less than the balance of the outstanding receivable. For international customers, depending on the country and our historic collection experience with the customer, we may have pledge agreements, bills of exchange, guarantees, post-dated checks or other forms of security agreements designed to enhance our ability to collect the receivables, although a majority of our international accounts and notes receivables do not have these features. In our gaming operations business, because we own the participation gaming machines that are leased or otherwise provided to the customer, in a bankruptcy the customer has to generally either accept or reject the lease or other agreement and, if rejected, our gaming machines are returned to us. Our accounts and notes receivable related to participation gaming machines and all other revenue sources are typically unsecured claims.

Due to the significance of our gaming machines to the on-going operations of our casino customers, we may be designated as a key vendor in any bankruptcy filing by a casino customer, which can enhance our position above other creditors in the bankruptcy. Due to our successful collection experience and our continuing operating relationship with casino customers and their businesses, it is infrequent that we repossess gaming machines from a customer in partial settlement of outstanding accounts or notes receivable balances. In those unusual instances where repossession occurs to mitigate our exposure on the related receivable, the repossessed gaming machines are subsequently resold in the used gaming machine market; however, we may not fully recover the receivable from this re-sale.

Under certain of our contracts, our invoices do not coincide with revenue recognized under the contract. We have unbilled accounts receivable which represent revenue recorded in excess of amounts invoiced under the contract and generally become billable at contractually specified dates or upon the attainment of contractually defined milestones.

Our notes receivable portfolio consists of domestic and international receivables with installment payment terms ranging from 90 days to three years or single payment terms greater than 12 months. As of December 31, 2014, we had $276.2 million of notes receivable, net, of which $188.7 million was recorded as current. As of December 31, 2013, we had $231.3 million of notes receivable, net, of which $158.7 million was recorded as current. Interest income, if any, is recognized ratably over the life of the note receivable and any related fees or costs to establish the notes are charged to selling, general and administrative expense as incurred, as they are immaterial. Actual or imputed interest, if any, is determined based on current market rates at the time the note originated and is recorded in other income and expense, net, ratably over the payment period. We generally impute interest income on all notes receivable with terms greater than one year that do not contain a stated interest rate. The interest rates on outstanding notes receivable ranged from 4.0% to 10.4% at December 31, 2014 and from 5.25% to 8.0% at December 31, 2013. Our policy is to generally recognize interest on notes receivable until the note receivable is deemed non-performing, which we define as a note where payments have not been received within 180 days of the agreed-upon terms. When a note receivable is deemed to be non-performing, the note is placed on non-accrual status and interest income is recognized on a cash basis. The amount of our non-performing notes was immaterial at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

In certain international jurisdictions, we offer extended financing terms ranging between 18 to 36 months. Sales with extended financing terms typically result in a higher selling price and, if financed over periods longer than one year, incur interest. The impact of extended financing terms on our current and long-term notes receivable is expected to increase current and long-term notes receivable balances and reduce our cash provided by operating activities over the periods in which the extended financing terms are offered. The collection of these notes receivable in future periods will increase the amount of cash flow provided by operating activities, reduce our total notes receivable and increase our cash balance. For additional information on notes receivables, see Note 6 (Accounts Receivable, Notes Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Bad Debt).

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out or weighted moving average method. Our inventory primarily consists of gaming machines and table products for sale and related parts, instant games for our participation and price-per-unit arrangements and our licensed branding merchandise. Through December 31, 2014, when we received a used gaming machine on trade-in, we recorded an estimated carrying value for the used gaming machine based on the condition of the used gaming machine and our experience in selling used gaming machines. Beginning January 1, 2015, we are substantially reducing our used gaming machine business and any value given to the customer for a used gaming machine on trade-in will be treated as additional discount off the sales price of the new gaming machines. We determine the lower of cost or market value of our inventory based on estimates of potentially excess and obsolete inventories after considering historical and forecasted demand and average selling prices. However, forecasts are subject to revisions, cancellations and rescheduling. Demand for gaming machines and parts inventory is also subject to technological obsolescence. Actual demand may differ from anticipated demand, and such differences could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost, and when placed into service, are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:



Item		Estimated Life in Years
Lottery and other machinery and equipment		3 - 15
Gaming equipment		1 - 5
Transportation equipment		3 - 8
Furniture and fixtures		5 - 10
Buildings and improvements		15 - 40

Costs incurred for equipment associated with specific gaming and lottery contracts and internal use software projects not yet placed into service are classified as construction in progress and are not depreciated. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the term of the corresponding lease or their useful life.

Our policy is to periodically review the estimated useful lives of our fixed assets. As a result of our review during 2014, other than the personal property at the Waukegan, Illinois manufacturing facility described in Note 8 (Property and Equipment), no additional accelerated depreciation was recorded. Our reviews during 2013 and 2012 indicated lower estimated useful lives for our gaming machines deployed to our U.K. LBO customers relative to historical estimates due to market changes that we believe impacted the replacement cycle of these gaming machines. During 2013 and 2012, we recorded accelerated depreciation related to our change in estimated lives of $8.7 million and $6.6 million, respectively.

Deferred Installation Costs

Certain participation contracts require us to perform installation activities. Direct installation activities, which include costs for installing gaming machines, terminals, facilities wiring, computers, internal labor and travel, are performed at the inception of the contract to enable us to perform under the terms of the contract. Such activities do not represent a separate earnings process and, therefore, the costs are deferred and amortized over the expected life of the contract, which we define as the original life of the contract plus all available extensions in the case of lottery-related contracts and typically over the life of the equipment when no long-term contract exists, as is often the case within our gaming participation business. Additionally, certain of our product sales contracts require us to perform installation activities and as we do not retain ownership of gaming machines and terminals, we defer revenue to cover the cost of installation and then expense the costs related to installation activities as they are incurred. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had $34.0 million and $39.3 million of deferred installation costs, net of accumulated depreciation, including $33.4 million and $30.6 million included within lottery machinery and equipment and $0.6 million and $1.9 million included within gaming equipment. For additional information regarding deferred installation costs, see Note 8 (Property and Equipment).

Goodwill and Intangible Assets with Indefinite Useful Lives

We assess the impairment of goodwill annually at the end of the fourth quarter, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable. We assess the recoverability of our intangible assets with indefinite useful lives whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed of acquired companies. We follow the acquisition method of accounting for all business combinations. Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Intangible Assets

Identified intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized over two to twenty years using the straight-line method. Factors considered when assigning useful lives include legal, regulatory and contractual provisions, product obsolescence, demand, competition and other economic factors. We assess the recoverability of long-lived assets and identifiable intangible assets with finite useful lives whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the asset to the expected net future undiscounted cash flows to be generated by that asset or, for identifiable intangibles with finite useful lives, by determining whether the amortization of the intangible asset balance over its remaining life can be recovered through expected net future undiscounted cash flows. The amount of impairment of other long-lived assets is measured by the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds the fair market value of the asset. Assets held for sale are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair market value, less expected costs to sell.

Minimum Guarantees

We enter into long-term license agreements with third parties in which we are obligated to pay a minimum guaranteed amount of royalties, typically annually over the life of the contract. We account for the minimum guaranteed obligations within other long-term liabilities at the onset of the license arrangement and record a corresponding licensed asset within intangible assets, net. The licensed assets related to the minimum guaranteed obligations are amortized over the term of the license agreement and included in D&A. The long-term liability related to the minimum guaranteed obligations is reduced as royalty payments are made as required under the license agreement. The weighted average remaining term of our license agreements with minimum guaranteed obligations was six years and four years as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Our total minimum guaranteed obligations reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheets were $173.7 million and $216.0 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Our remaining expected future payments of minimum guaranteed obligations are $33.3 million, $29.9 million, $29.4 million, $26.5 million, $28.1 million and $26.5 million in the years ending December 31, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 and thereafter, respectively.

Software, net

We classify software development costs as either internal use software or external use software. We account for costs incurred to develop internal use software in accordance with ASC 350-40, Internal Use Software. Consequently, any costs incurred during preliminary project stages are expensed; costs incurred during the application development stages are capitalized; and costs incurred during the post-implementation/operation stages are expensed. Once the software is placed in operation, we amortize the capitalized software cost over its estimated economic useful life, which is typically two to ten years.

We purchase, license and incur costs to develop external use software to be used in the products we sell or provide to customers. Such costs are capitalized under ASC 985. Costs incurred in creating software are expensed when incurred as R&D until technological feasibility has been established, after which costs are capitalized up to the date the software is available for general release to customers. Generally, the software we develop reaches technological feasibility when a working model of the software is available. Software that we purchase or license for use in our products has met the technological feasibility criteria prior to our purchase or license and, therefore, we capitalize the payments made for such purchase or license. Annual amortization of capitalized software costs is recorded over the estimated economic life, which is typically eight to ten years.

For our game themes, we have determined that such products reach technological feasibility when internal testing is complete and the product is ready to be submitted to gaming regulators for approval. We incur and capitalize regulatory approval costs for our game themes after technological feasibility is achieved. Annual amortization of regulatory approval costs is recorded over the estimated economic life, which is typically two to four years.

Equity Investments

We account for our investments where we own a non-controlling interest, but exercise significant influence, under the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method of accounting, our original cost of the investment is adjusted for our share of equity in the earnings of the equity investee and reduced by distributions of capital received. We assess the impairment of equity investments annually at the end of the fourth quarter, or more frequently, if events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of the investment may not be recoverable. An equity investment is impaired only if the estimate of the fair value of the investment is less than the carrying value of the investment, and such decline in value is deemed to be other than temporary. If an impairment was to occur, the impairment would be measured as the excess of the carrying amount of the equity investment over the fair value of the equity investment.

Other Assets

We capitalize costs associated with long-term debt financing. An evaluation is performed to determine if any impairment has occurred with respect to any amortized or non-amortized assets. Other assets also include the long-term portion of our deferred tax assets.

Derivative Financial Instruments

We record derivative financial instruments on the balance sheet at their respective fair values. From time to time, we utilize interest rate forward contracts, swap contracts or swaptions, designated as cash flow hedges, to mitigate gains or losses associated with the change in expected cash flows due to fluctuations in interest rates on our variable rate debt. We also enter into foreign currency forward contracts from time to time to mitigate the risk associated with cash payments required to be made in non-functional currencies or to mitigate the risk associated with cash payments received in non-functional currencies from our equity method investees. See Note 16 (Fair Value Measurements).

Advertising Costs

The cost of advertising is expensed as incurred and totaled $32.2 million, $9.4 million and $5.0 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

R&D

R&D related to hardware product development is expensed. Employee related costs associated with product development are included in R&D.

Employee Termination and Restructuring

We have terminated employees and restructured portions of our operations in the past and have restructuring initiatives currently underway related to our recent acquisitions of Bally and WMS. We may engage in additional restructuring activities in the future. Identifying and calculating the costs to terminate employees and exit operations or properties requires certain estimates to be made. Although our estimates have been reasonably accurate in the past, judgment is required, and these estimates and assumptions may change as additional information becomes available or facts or circumstances change.

Income Taxes

Income taxes are determined using the liability method of accounting for income taxes. Our tax expense includes U.S. and international income tax expense, but excludes the provision for U.S. taxes on undistributed earnings of specified international subsidiaries that are treated as permanently invested.

The Company applies a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Current accounting guidance allows the recognition of only those income tax positions that have a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being sustained upon examination by the taxing authorities. While we believe we have adequately provided for our uncertain tax positions, amounts asserted by taxing authorities could vary from our liability for uncertain tax positions. Accordingly, additional provisions for tax-related matters, including interest and penalties, could be recorded in income tax expense in the period revised estimates are made or the underlying matters are settled or otherwise resolved. The Company operates within multiple taxing jurisdictions and is examined in various jurisdictions in the normal course of business. The reversal of the accruals is recorded when examinations are completed, statutes of limitation are closed or tax laws are changed.

Certain items of income and expense are not reported in tax returns and financial statements in the same year. The tax effect of such temporary differences is reported as deferred income taxes. Accounting guidance for income taxes requires that the future realization of deferred tax assets depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income in future periods. Possible sources of taxable income include taxable income in carryback periods, the future reversal of existing taxable temporary differences recorded as a deferred tax liability, tax-planning strategies that generate future income or gains in excess of anticipated losses in the carryforward period and projected future taxable income.

If, based upon all available evidence, both positive and negative, it is more likely than not (more than 50 percent likely) such deferred tax assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance is recorded. Significant weight is given to positive and negative evidence that is objectively verifiable. A company’s three-year cumulative loss position is significant negative evidence in considering whether deferred tax assets are realizable and the accounting guidance restricts the amount of reliance we can place on projected taxable income to support the recovery of the deferred tax assets.

At December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had valuation allowances of $58.1 million and $126.7 million, respectively, related to the U.S. net deferred tax assets. Prior to 2014, we had maintained a valuation allowance against our net deferred tax assets related to U.S. net deferred tax assets based on the negative evidence of our three-year cumulative loss position. After considering the net deferred tax liabilities resulting from the Bally acquisition, in 2014 we recorded a net release of the valuation allowance related to our net U.S. deferred tax assets in the amount of $79.1 million.

Foreign Currency Translation

We have significant operations where the local currency is the functional currency, including our operations in the U.K., Europe, Australia and Canada. Assets and liabilities of foreign operations are translated at period-end rates of exchange and results of operations are translated at the average rates of exchange for the period. Gains or losses resulting from translating the foreign currency financial statements are accumulated as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income in stockholders' equity. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in other income (expense) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss.

Equity-based compensation

We periodically grant certain stock-based awards that are contingent upon the Company achieving certain pre-determined financial performance targets. Upon determining that the performance target is probable, the fair value of the award is recognized over the service period. Determining the probability of achieving a performance target requires estimates and judgment and any significant adverse changes in key assumptions used to reach our conclusions could result in an adjustment to our financial statements that could be material.

We measure compensation cost for stock-based awards at fair value on grant date and recognize compensation expense over the service period for awards that are expected to vest. The fair value of RSUs is determined based on the number of underlying shares and the quoted price of our common stock and the fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The estimation of stock-based awards that will ultimately vest requires judgment and, to the extent actual or updated estimates of forfeiture rates differ from our current estimates, such amounts will be recorded as a cumulative adjustment in the period in which such estimates are revised. We consider many factors when estimating expected forfeitures, including types of awards, employee class, and historical experience. Actual results and future changes in estimates may differ substantially from our current estimates. See Note 18 (Stock-Based and Other Incentive Compensation).

Comprehensive Income

We include and separately classify in comprehensive loss unrealized gains and losses from our foreign currency translation adjustments, gains or losses associated with pension or other post-retirement benefits, prior service costs or credits associated with pension or other post-retirement benefits, transition assets or obligations associated with pension or other post-retirement benefits, the effective portion of derivative financial instruments and unrealized gains and losses on investments.

Business Combinations

We apply the provisions of ASC 805, Business Combinations ("ASC 805"), in the accounting for acquisitions. It requires us to recognize separately from goodwill the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed on the acquisition date. Goodwill as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of consideration transferred over the net of the acquisition date fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. Significant estimates and assumptions are required to value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date as well as contingent consideration, where applicable. These estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement and typically include the calculation of an appropriate discount rate and projection of the cash flows associated with each acquired asset. As a result, during the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, we may record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or final determination of the fair value of assets acquired or liabilities assumed, whichever comes first, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to the consolidated statements of operations. For additional information regarding recent business combinations, see Note 3 (Acquisitions and Dispositions).

Recently Issued Accounting Guidance

In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-04, Obligations Resulting from Joint and Several Liability Arrangements for Which the Total Amount of the Obligation Is Fixed at the Reporting Date, which amended guidance related to the recognition, measurement, and disclosure of obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation within the scope of this guidance is fixed at the reporting date. The guidance requires an entity to measure obligations resulting from such arrangements as the sum of the amount the reporting entity agreed to pay pursuant to its agreement with its co-obligors and any additional amount it expects to pay on behalf of such co-obligors. In addition, the amendment requires an entity to disclose the nature and amount of the obligation as well as other information about the obligation. The guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2013 and is to be applied retrospectively. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-05, Parent’s Accounting for the Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or of an Investment in a Foreign Entity, which amended guidance related to a parent company's accounting for the release of the cumulative translation adjustment into net income upon derecognition of certain subsidiaries or groups of assets within a foreign entity or of an investment in a foreign entity. This guidance is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2013, and is to be applied prospectively to derecognition events occurring after the effective date. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11, Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists, which requires an entity to present an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward. However, to the extent a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such purpose, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with a deferred tax asset. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2013 and interim periods within those years. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In January 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-05, Service Concession Arrangements (Topic 853), a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force, which specified that an operating entity should not account for a service concession arrangement within the scope of the update as a lease in accordance with ASC 840, Leases. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2014. We do not expect ASU 2014-05 to have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. ASU 2014-08 changes the criteria for reporting discontinued operations and modifies related disclosure requirements. The new guidance is effective on a prospective basis for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2014, and interim periods thereafter. We do not expect ASU 2014-08 to have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The amended guidance outlines a single comprehensive revenue model for entities to use in accounting for revenue from contracts with customers. The guidance supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of the revenue model is that "an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services." ASU 2014-09 is effective for fiscal years, and interim reporting periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016 (early adoption is not permitted). We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting ASU 2014-09.

In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period. ASU 2014-12 requires that a performance target that affects vesting and could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. A reporting entity should apply existing guidance in ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation, as it relates to such awards. ASU 2014-12 is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015 with early adoption permitted using either of two methods: (i) prospective to all awards granted or modified after the effective date; or (ii) retrospective to all awards with performance targets that are outstanding as of the beginning of the earliest annual period presented in the financial statements and to all new or modified awards thereafter, with the cumulative effect of applying ASU 2014-12 as an adjustment to the opening retained earnings balance as of the beginning of the earliest annual period presented in the financial statements. We do not expect ASU 2014-12 to have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern: Disclosure of Uncertainties About an Entity's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. ASU 2014-15 requires management to perform interim and annual assessments as to whether there are conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern within one year of the date the financial statements are issued and to provide related disclosures, if required. ASU 2014-15 is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016 and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect ASU 2014-15 to have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

In January 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-01, Income Statement-Extraordinary and Unusual Items: Simplifying Income Statement Presentation by Eliminating the Concept of Extraordinary Items. ASU 2015-01 eliminates from GAAP the concept of extraordinary items. The presentation and disclosure guidance for items that are unusual in nature or occur infrequently will be retained and will be expanded to include items that were previously classified as extraordinary. ASU 2015-01 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015 with early adoption permitted using either a prospective or retrospective method. We do not expect ASU 2015-01 to have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.