EX-2 3 exh_2.htm EXHIBIT 2 exh_2.htm
EXHIBIT 2










FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION

 

 
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Year ended
 
December 31, 2014
 

 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT
MANAGEMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The accompanying consolidated financial statements and management discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) of FirstService Corporation (the “Company”) and all information in this annual report are the responsibility of management and have been approved by the Board of Directors.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared by management in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America using the best estimates and judgments of management, where appropriate.  The most significant of these accounting principles are set out in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements. Management has prepared the financial information presented elsewhere in this annual report and has ensured that it is consistent with the consolidated financial statements.

The MD&A has been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 51-102 of the Canadian Securities Administrators, taking into consideration other relevant guidance, including Regulation S-K of the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Board of Directors of the Company has an Audit Committee consisting of three independent directors.  The Audit Committee meets regularly to review with management and the independent auditors any significant accounting, internal control, auditing and financial reporting matters.

These consolidated financial statements have been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, which have been appointed as the independent registered public accounting firm of the Company by the shareholders.  Their report outlines the scope of their examination and opinion on the consolidated financial statements. As auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP have full and independent access to the Audit Committee to discuss their findings.

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company.  Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

Due to its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of its effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management has excluded seventeen individually insignificant entities acquired by the Company during the last fiscal period from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as at December 31, 2014.   The total assets and total revenues of the seventeen majority-owned entities represent 4.2% and 3.6%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as at and for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Management has assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as at December 31, 2014, based on the criteria set forth in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management has concluded that, as at December 31, 2014, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective.

The effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as at December 31, 2014, has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm as stated in their report which appears herein.


   
/s/ Jay S. Hennick
Chief Executive Officer
/s/ John B. Friedrichsen
Chief Financial Officer
February 24, 2015

 
 

 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders of FirstService Corporation

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of FirstService Corporation and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 and the related consolidated statements of earnings (loss), consolidated statements of comprehensive earnings (loss), consolidated statements of shareholders’ equity and consolidated statements of cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014. We also have audited FirstService Corporation’s and its subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these consolidated financial statements and on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall consolidated financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
As described in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management has excluded seventeen entities from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 because these entities were acquired by the company in purchase business combinations during 2014. We have also excluded these entities acquired from our audit of internal control over financial reporting.  Total assets and total revenues of these majority-owned entities represent 4.2% and 3.6%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of FirstService Corporation and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, FirstService Corporation and its subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.


/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants

Toronto, Ontario
February 24, 2015
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (LOSS)
(in thousands of US dollars, except per share amounts)
 
Years ended December 31
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Revenues
  $ 2,714,273     $ 2,344,625     $ 2,098,987  
 
                       
Cost of revenues (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below)
    1,747,175       1,523,277       1,362,972  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    758,436       650,188       592,402  
Depreciation
    38,117       34,741       30,650  
Amortization of intangible assets
    24,293       37,141       17,389  
Acquisition-related items (note 5)
    11,825       10,498       16,326  
Operating earnings
    134,427       88,780       79,248  
 
                       
Interest expense
    15,102       22,547       20,609  
Interest income
    (865 )     (1,048 )     (1,046 )
Other (income) expense, net (note 6)
    (1,008 )     (1,524 )     (2,441 )
Earnings before income tax
    121,198       68,805       62,126  
Income tax expense (recovery) (note 16)
    31,799       22,204       20,733  
Net earnings from continuing operations
    89,399       46,601       41,393  
                         
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax (note 4)
    1,537       (5,183 )     (671 )
Net earnings
    90,936       41,418       40,722  
 
                       
Non-controlling interest share of earnings
    28,200       18,027       13,741  
Non-controlling interest redemption increment (note 13)
    19,420       41,430       21,131  
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Company
    43,316       (18,039 )     5,850  
Preferred share dividends
    -       3,146       9,603  
 
                       
Net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders
  $ 43,316     $ (21,185 )   $ (3,753 )
 
                       
Net earnings (loss) per common share (note 17)
                       
Basic
                       
Continuing operations
  $ 1.16     $ (0.48 )   $ (0.10 )
Discontinued operations
    0.04       (0.16 )     (0.02 )
 
  $ 1.20     $ (0.64 )   $ (0.12 )
 
                       
Diluted
                       
Continuing operations
  $ 1.15     $ (0.48 )   $ (0.10 )
Discontinued operations
    0.04       (0.16 )     (0.02 )
 
  $ 1.19     $ (0.64 )   $ (0.12 )
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS (LOSS)
(in thousands of US dollars)
 
Years ended December 31
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net earnings
  $ 90,936     $ 41,418     $ 40,722  
 
                       
Foreign currency translation (loss) gain
    (51,648 )     (9,725 )     3,423  
Reclassification to earnings of other comprehensive income on investment (note 5)
    -       -       2,553  
Comprehensive earnings
    39,288       31,693       46,698  
 
                       
Less: Comprehensive earnings attributable to non-controlling shareholders
    36,616       57,570       34,478  
 
                       
Comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to Company
  $ 2,672     $ (25,877 )   $ 12,220  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands of US dollars)
 
As at December 31
 
2014
   
2013
 
Assets
 
 
   
 
 
Current assets
 
 
   
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 156,793     $ 142,704  
Restricted cash
    3,657       5,613  
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $27,780 (December 31, 2013 - $25,534)
    409,317       371,423  
Income tax recoverable
    29,303       17,489  
Inventories (note 7)
    18,950       15,804  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    44,176       38,289  
Deferred income tax (note 16)
    45,623       23,938  
 
    707,819       615,260  
 
               
Other receivables
    6,845       7,455  
Other assets (note 8)
    19,487       12,256  
Fixed assets (note 9)
    120,394       101,554  
Deferred income tax (note 16)
    83,639       102,629  
Intangible assets (note 10)
    197,689       177,179  
Goodwill (note 11)
    503,554       427,178  
 
    931,608       828,251  
 
  $ 1,639,427     $ 1,443,511  
 
               
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
               
Current liabilities
               
Accounts payable
  $ 107,349     $ 92,937  
Accrued liabilities (note 7)
    434,819       392,377  
Income tax payable
    15,249       18,317  
Unearned revenues
    23,571       20,199  
Long-term debt - current (note 12)
    36,396       44,785  
Contingent acquisition consideration - current (note 19)
    10,971       122  
Deferred income tax (note 16)
    1,804       1,427  
 
    630,159       570,164  
 
               
Long-term debt - non-current (note 12)
    456,952        328,009  
Contingent acquisition consideration (note 19)
    16,165       8,618  
Other liabilities
    35,739       34,433  
Deferred income tax (note 16)
    36,205       31,165  
 
    545,061       402,225  
Redeemable non-controlling interests (note 13)
    230,992       222,073  
 
               
Shareholders' equity
               
Common shares (note 14)
    310,401       300,765  
Contributed surplus
    46,931       37,510  
Deficit
    (118,242 )     (123,111 )
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss)
    (13,887 )     26,757  
Total Company shareholders' equity
    225,203       241,921  
 
               
Non-controlling interests
    8,012       7,128  
Total shareholders' equity
    233,215       249,049  
 
  $ 1,639,427     $ 1,443,511  
 
Commitments and contingencies (notes 14 and 20)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
On behalf of the Board of Directors,
/s/Bernard I. Ghert   /s/Jay S. Hennick  
Director   Director  
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(in thousands of US dollars, except share information)
 
 
 
 
Preferred shares
   
Common shares
   
 
   
 
   
Accumulated
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
Issued and
outstanding
shares
   
Amount
   
Issued and
outstanding
shares
   
Amount
   
Contributed
surplus
   
Deficit
   
other
comprehensive
earnings
   
Non-
controlling
interests
   
Total
shareholders'
equity
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2011
    5,622,634     $ 140,561       29,941,254     $ 110,821     $ 27,970     $ (63,958 )   $ 28,225     $ 2,903     $ 246,522  
 
                                                                       
Net earnings
    -       -       -       -       -       40,722       -       -       40,722  
Other comprehensive earnings
    -       -       -       -       -       -       5,976       -       5,976  
Other comprehensive earnings attributable to NCI
    -       -       -       -       -       -       394       51       445  
NCI share of earnings
    -       -       -       -       -       (13,741 )     -       2,449       (11,292 )
                                                                         
                                                                         
NCI redemption increment
    -       -       -       -       -       (21,131 )     -       -       (21,131 )
Distributions to NCI
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (2,333 )     (2,333 )
Acquisitions of businesses, net
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       1,148       1,148  
 
                                                                       
Subsidiaries’ equity transactions
    -       -       -       -       607       -       -       -       607  
 
                                                                       
Subordinate Voting Shares:
                                                                       
Stock option expense
    -       -       -       -       3,169       -       -       -       3,169  
Stock options exercised
    -       -       363,850       9,098       (2,165 )     -       -       -       6,933  
Tax benefit on options exercised
    -       -       -       -       200       -       -       -       200  
Purchased for cancellation
    -       -       (235,000 )     (1,098 )     -       (6,216 )     -       -       (7,314 )
Preferred Shares:
                                                                       
Purchased for cancellation
    (392,000 )     (9,799 )     -       -       -       (97 )     -       -       (9,896 )
Dividends
    -       -       -       -       -       (9,603 )     -       -       (9,603 )
 
                                                                       
Balance, December 31, 2012
    5,230,634       130,762       30,070,104       118,821       29,781       (74,024 )     34,595       4,218       244,153  
 
                                                                       
Net earnings
    -       -       -       -       -       41,418       -       -       41,418  
Other comprehensive earnings
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (9,725 )     -       (9,725 )
Other comprehensive earnings attributable to NCI
    -       -       -       -       -       -       1,887       (392 )     1,495  
NCI share of earnings
    -       -       -       -       -       (18,027 )     -       4,276       (13,751 )
NCI redemption increment
    -       -       -       -       -       (41,430 )     -       -       (41,430 )
Distributions to NCI
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (4,123 )     (4,123 )
Acquisitions of businesses, net
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       3,149       3,149  
 
                                                                       
Subsidiaries’ equity transactions
    -       -       -       -       3,520       -       -       -       3,520  
 
                                                                       
Subordinate Voting Shares:
                                                                       
Stock option expense
    -       -       -       -       4,166       -       -       -       4,166  
Stock options exercised
    -       -       464,150       9,784       (2,317 )     -       -       -       7,467  
Tax benefit on options exercised
    -       -       -       -       2,360       -       -       -       2,360  
Dividends
    -       -       -       -       -       (10,470 )     -       -       (10,470 )
Purchased for cancellation
    -       -       (385,600 )     (1,918 )     -       (12,636 )     -       -       (14,554 )
Issued in settlement of convertible debentures (note 14)
    -       -       2,744,886       77,143       -       -       -       -       77,143  
Preferred Shares (note 14):
                                                                       
Redeemed for cash
    (1,569,190 )     (39,232 )     -       -       -       -       -       -       (39,232 )
Converted to Subordinate Voting Shares
    (3,661,444 )     (91,530 )     2,889,900       96,326       -       (4,796 )     -       -       -  
Dividends
    -       -       18,292       609       -       (3,146 )     -       -       (2,537 )
Balance, December 31, 2013
    -     $ -       35,801,732     $ 300,765     $ 37,510     $ (123,111 )   $ 26,757     $ 7,128     $ 249,049  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(in thousands of US dollars, except share information)
 
 
    Preferred shares    
Common shares
   
 
   
 
     Accumulated    
 
   
 
 
 
     Issued and
outstanding
shares
       
Amount
   
Issued and
outstanding
shares
   
Amount
   
Contributed
surplus
   
Deficit
   
other
comprehensive
earnings (loss)
   
Non-
controlling
interests
   
Total
shareholders'
equity
 
 
                 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2013
     -     $  -       35,801,732     $ 300,765     $ 37,510     $ (123,111 )   $ 26,757     $ 7,128     $ 249,049  
 
                                                                       
Net earnings
     -        -       -       -       -       90,936       -       -       90,936  
Other comprehensive earnings
     -        -       -       -       -       -       (51,648 )     -       (51,648 )
Other comprehensive earnings attributable to NCI
     -        -       -       -       -       -       11,004       (749 )     10,255  
NCI share of earnings
     -        -       -       -       -       (28,200 )     -       5,661       (22,539 )
NCI redemption increment
     -        -       -       -       -       (19,420 )     -       -       (19,420 )
Distributions to NCI
     -        -       -       -       -       -       -       (4,535 )     (4,535 )
Acquisition of businesses, net
     -        -       -       -       -       -       -       507       507  
Subsidiaries’ equity transactions
     -        -       -       -       4,448       -       -       -       4,448  
Subordinate Voting Shares:
                                                                       
   Stock option expense
     -        -       -       -       4,077       -       -       -       4,077  
   Stock options exercised
     -        -       558,150       14,419       (3,701 )     -       -       -       10,718  
   Tax benefit on options exercised
     -        -       -       -       4,597       -       -       -       4,597  
   Dividends
     -        -       -       -       -       (14,362 )     -       -       (14,362 )
   Purchased for cancellation
     -        -       (552,927 )     (4,783 )     -       (24,085 )     -       -       (28,868 )
Balance, December 31, 2014
     -     $  -       35,806,955     $ 310,401     $ 46,931     $ (118,242 )   $ (13,887 )   $ 8,012     $ 233,215  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands of US dollars)
 
Years ended December 31
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Cash provided by (used in)
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Operating activities
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net earnings
  $ 90,936     $ 41,418     $ 40,722  
NCI share of earnings from discontinued operations
    321       225       211  
Items not affecting cash:
                       
Depreciation and amortization
    62,516       75,352       53,502  
Deferred income tax
    (991 )     (23,868 )     (18,660 )
Earnings from equity method investments
    (589 )     (1,107 )     (1,230 )
Stock option expense
    4,077       4,166       3,169  
Other
    (890 )     4,899       3,323  
Incremental tax benefit on stock options exercised
    (4,597 )     (2,360 )     (200 )
Changes in non-cash working capital:
                       
Accounts receivable
    (22,052 )     (33,613 )     (19,889 )
Inventories
    (3,415 )     (1,226 )     (3,046 )
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    (4,704 )     (2,982 )     (3,897 )
Accounts payable
    19,287       (2,455 )     (963 )
Accrued liabilities
    46,769       44,447       28,979  
Income tax payable
    (10,264 )     (421 )     11,842  
Unearned revenues
    3,625       901       48  
Other liabilities
    (897 )     12,901       9,080  
Contingent acquisition consideration paid
    (20,064 )     -       -  
Net cash provided by operating activities
    159,068       116,277       102,991  
Investing activities
                       
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired (note 3)
    (108,245 )     (37,735 )     (19,153 )
Disposal of business, net of cash disposed (note 4)
    8,373       49,460       -  
Purchases of fixed assets
    (52,506 )     (34,824 )     (44,395 )
Changes in restricted cash
    1,956       (1,964 )     844  
Other investing activities
    (5,755 )     (2,234 )     850  
Net cash used in investing activities
    (156,177 )     (27,297 )     (61,854 )
Financing activities
                       
Increase in long-term debt
    307,715       551,932       395,584  
Repayment of long-term debt
    (193,033 )     (516,479 )     (376,349 )
Financing fees paid
    (358 )     (546 )     (1,808 )
Purchases of non-controlling interests
    (36,025 )     (6,937 )     (8,040 )
Sale of interests in subsidiaries to non-controlling interests
    424       1,233       1,608  
Contingent acquisition consideration paid
    (5,750 )     (1,994 )     (7,133 )
Proceeds received on exercise of stock options
    10,718       7,467       6,933  
Incremental tax benefit on stock options exercised
    4,597       2,360       200  
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders
    -       (2,537 )     (9,603 )
Dividends paid to common shareholders
    (14,361 )     (6,890 )     -  
Distributions paid to non-controlling interests
    (25,956 )     (22,001 )     (16,321 )
Repurchases of Subordinate Voting Shares
    (28,868 )     (14,554 )     (7,314 )
Repurchases of Preferred Shares
    -       -       (9,896 )
Redemption of Preferred Shares
    -       (39,232 )     -  
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    19,103       (48,178 )     (32,139 )
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    (7,905 )     (6,782 )     1,887  
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
    14,089       34,020       10,885  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
    142,704       108,684       97,799  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year
  $ 156,793     $ 142,704     $ 108,684  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands of US dollars, except share and per share amounts)


1.           Description of the business

FirstService Corporation (the “Company”) is a provider of real estate-related services to the commercial, institutional and residential markets in North America and various countries around the world.  The Company’s operations are conducted in three segments: Commercial Real Estate Services (“CRE”), Residential Real Estate Services (“RRE”) and Property Services.  The Company operates as Colliers International within CRE; FirstService Residential and American Pool Enterprises within RRE; and Paul Davis, Certa Pro Painters, California Closets and several other franchise brands within Property Services.

2.           Summary of significant accounting policies

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  The most significant estimates are related to the determination of fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations, recoverability of goodwill and intangible assets, estimated fair value of contingent consideration related to acquisitions, recoverability of deferred income tax assets, quantification of uncertain tax positions and the collectability of accounts receivable. Actual results could be materially different from these estimates.

Significant accounting policies are summarized as follows:

Basis of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its majority-owned subsidiaries and those variable interest entities where the Company is the primary beneficiary.  Where the Company does not have a controlling interest but has the ability to exert significant influence, the equity method is used.  Inter-company transactions and accounts are eliminated on consolidation.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash equivalents consist of short-term interest-bearing securities, which are readily convertible into cash and have original maturities at the date of purchase of three months or less.

Restricted cash
Restricted cash consists of cash over which the Company has legal ownership but is restricted as to its availability or intended use, including funds held on behalf of clients and franchisees.

Inventories
Inventories are carried at the lower of cost and market.  Cost is determined using the weighted average method.  Work-in-progress inventory relates to real estate project management and appraisal projects in process and are accounted for using the percentage of completion method.

Fixed assets
Fixed assets are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation.  The costs of additions and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.  Fixed assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset group may not be recoverable.  An impairment loss is recorded to the extent the carrying amount exceeds the estimated fair value of an asset group.  Fixed assets are depreciated over their estimated useful lives as follows:
 
Buildings 20 to 40 years straight-line
Vehicles 3 to 5 years straight-line
Furniture and equipment 3 to 10 years straight-line
Computer equipment and software 3 to 5 years straight-line
Leasehold improvements term of the lease to a maximum of 10 years

 
 

 
Investments in securities
The Company classifies investments in securities under the caption “other assets”.  Investments in equity securities are accounted for using the equity method or cost method.  The equity method is utilized where the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence on the investee.  Realized gains or losses and equity earnings or losses are recorded in other (income) expense.  Equity securities, including marketable equity securities as well as those accounted for under the equity method and cost method, are regularly reviewed for impairment based on both quantitative and qualitative criteria that include the extent to which cost exceeds fair value and the duration of the market decline, the Company’s intent and ability to hold until forecasted recovery, and the financial health and near term prospects for the issuer.  Other-than-temporary impairment losses on equity securities are recorded in earnings.

Financial instruments and derivatives
Derivative financial instruments are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as other assets or other liabilities and carried at fair value.  From time to time, the Company may use interest rate swaps to hedge a portion of its interest rate exposure on long term debt.  Hedge accounting has been applied and the swaps are carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets, with gains or losses recognized in interest expense.  The carrying value of the hedged item is adjusted for changes in fair value attributable to the hedged interest rate risk; the associated gain or loss is recognized currently in earnings.  If swaps are terminated and the underlying item is not, the resulting gain or loss is deferred and recognized over the remaining life of the underlying item using the effective interest method.

Fair value
The Company uses the fair value measurements framework for financial assets and liabilities and for non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value on a non-recurring basis.  The framework defines fair value, gives guidance for measurement and disclosure, and establishes a three-level hierarchy for observable and unobservable inputs used to measure fair value.  An asset or liability’s classification within the hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.  The three levels are as follows:

Level 1 – Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
Level 2 – Observable market-based inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
Level 3 – Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data, which requires the Company to develop its own assumptions

Financing fees
Financing fees related to the revolving credit facility and Senior Notes are deferred and amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method.

Goodwill and intangible assets
Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination and is not subject to amortization.

Intangible assets are recorded at fair value on the date they are acquired.  Indefinite life intangible assets are not subject to amortization.  Where lives are finite, they are amortized over their estimated useful lives as follows:
 
Customer lists and relationships
straight-line over 4 to 20 years
Franchise rights by pattern of use, currently estimated at 2.5% to 15% per year
Trademarks and trade names straight-line over 5 to 35 years
Management contracts and other straight-line over life of contract ranging from 2 to 15 years
Brokerage backlog as underlying brokerage transactions are completed
 
 
 

 
The Company reviews the carrying value of finite life intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable from the estimated future cash flows expected to result from their use and eventual disposition.  If the sum of the undiscounted expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of the asset group, an impairment loss is recognized.  Measurement of the impairment loss is based on the excess of the carrying amount of the asset group over the fair value calculated using discounted expected future cash flows.

Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are tested for impairment annually, on August 1, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate the asset might be impaired, in which case the carrying amount of the asset is written down to fair value.

Impairment of goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level.  The Company has seven reporting units determined with reference to business segment, customer type, service delivery model and geography.  Impairment is tested by first assessing qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount.  Where it is determined to be more likely than not that its fair value is greater than its carrying amount, then no further testing is required.  Where the qualitative analysis is not sufficient to support that the fair value exceeds the carrying amount then a two-step goodwill impairment test is performed.  In the first step, the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill, is compared to the estimated fair value of the reporting unit.  The fair values of the reporting units are estimated using a discounted cash flow approach. The fair value measurement is classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, then a second step is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any.  Certain assumptions are used to determine the fair value of the reporting units, the most sensitive of which are estimated future cash flows and the discount rate applied to future cash flows. Changes in these assumptions could result in a materially different fair value.

Impairment of indefinite life intangible assets is tested by comparing the carrying amount to the estimated fair value on an individual intangible asset basis.

Redeemable non-controlling interests
Redeemable non-controlling interests (“RNCI”) are recorded at the greater of (i) the redemption amount or (ii) the amount initially recorded as RNCI at the date of inception of the minority equity position.   This amount is recorded in the “mezzanine” section of the balance sheet, outside of shareholders’ equity.  Changes in the RNCI amount are recognized immediately as they occur.

Revenue recognition and unearned revenues
(a) Real estate brokerage operations
Commission revenues from real estate leasing transactions are recognized once performance obligations under the commission arrangement are satisfied.  Terms and conditions of a commission arrangement include execution of the lease agreement and satisfaction of future contingencies such as tenant occupancy.  In most cases, a portion of the commission is earned upon execution of the lease agreement, with the remaining portion contingent on a future event, typically tenant occupancy; revenue recognition for the remaining portion, contingent on occupancy, is deferred until all contingencies are satisfied.

Commission revenues from sales brokerage transactions are recognized at the time the service has been provided and the commission becomes legally due, except when future contingencies exist.  In most cases, close of escrow or transfer of title is a future contingency, and accordingly, revenue recognition is deferred until this contingency is satisfied.

 (b) Franchisor operations
The Company operates several franchise systems within its Property Services segment.  Initial franchise fees are recognized when all material services or conditions related to the sale of the franchise have been performed or satisfied.  Royalty revenues are recognized based on a contracted percentage of franchisee revenues, as reported by the franchisees.  Revenues from administrative and other support services, as applicable, are recognized as the services are provided.

 
 

 
(c) Service operations other than real estate brokerage and franchisor operations
Revenues are recognized at the time the service is rendered.  Certain services including but not limited to real estate project management and appraisal projects in process, are recognized on the percentage of completion method, in the ratio of actual costs to total estimated contract costs.  In cases where anticipated costs to complete a project exceed the revenue to be recognized, a provision for the additional estimated losses is recorded in the period when the loss becomes apparent.  Amounts received from customers in advance of services being provided are recorded as unearned revenues when received.

Stock-based compensation
For equity classified awards, compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the estimated fair value of the award.  For liability classified awards, the fair value of the award is measured each period it is outstanding and changes in fair value are recorded as compensation expense.  The related stock option compensation expense is allocated using the graded attribution method.

Notional value appreciation plans
Under these plans, subsidiary employees are compensated if the notional value of the subsidiary increases.  Awards under these plans generally have a term of up to ten years and a vesting period of five years.  The increase in notional value is calculated with reference to growth in earnings relative to a fixed threshold amount plus or minus changes in indebtedness relative to a fixed opening amount.  If an award is subject to a vesting condition, then graded attribution is applied to the intrinsic value.  The related compensation expense is recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses and the liability is recorded in accrued liabilities.

Foreign currency translation
Assets, liabilities and operations of foreign subsidiaries are recorded based on the functional currency of each entity.  For certain foreign operations, the functional currency is the local currency, in which case the assets, liabilities and operations are translated at current exchange rates from the local currency to the reporting currency, the US dollar.  The resulting unrealized gains or losses are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive earnings.  Realized and unrealized foreign currency gains or losses related to any foreign dollar denominated monetary assets and liabilities are included in net earnings.

Income tax
Income tax has been provided using the asset and liability method whereby deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future income tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the consolidated financial statements or income tax returns.  Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted income tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which temporary differences are expected to reverse, be recovered or settled.  The effect on deferred income tax assets and liabilities of a change in income tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period in which the change occurs.  A valuation allowance is recorded unless it is more likely than not that realization of a deferred income tax asset will occur based on available evidence.

The Company recognizes uncertainty in tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return by recording a liability for unrecognized tax benefits on its balance sheet.  Uncertainties are quantified by applying a prescribed recognition threshold and measurement attribute.

The Company classifies interest and penalties associated with income tax positions in income tax expense.

Business combinations
All business combinations are accounted for using the purchase method of accounting.  Transaction costs are expensed as incurred.

The fair value of the contingent consideration is classified as a financial liability and is recorded on the balance sheet at the acquisition date and is re-measured at fair value at the end of each period until the end of the contingency period, with fair value adjustments recognized in earnings.  However, if the contingent consideration includes an element of compensation to the vendors (i.e. it is tied to continuing employment or it is not linked to the business valuation), then the portion of contingent consideration related to such element is treated as compensation expense over the expected employment period.

 
 

 
3. 
Acquisitions

2014 acquisitions:
The Company acquired controlling interests in seventeen businesses, nine in the CRE segment, five in the RRE segment and three in the Property Services segment.  In the CRE segment, the Company acquired controlling interests in regional firms in the UK, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia expanding FirstService’s geographic presence in these markets.  The Company also acquired a controlling interest in AOS Group, which was rebranded immediately as Colliers International, establishing a base of operations in France and Belgium.  In the RRE segment, the Company acquired regional firms operating in Minnesota, Texas, California, and Arizona.  In the Property Services segment, the Company acquired a national franchisor providing restoration services in Canada, as well as two California Closets franchises in Florida and Chicago which will be operated as Company-owned locations.

Details of these acquisitions are as follows:

 
 
Aggregate
Acquisitions
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
$
 35,641
 
Non-current assets
 
 
 8,157
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 (45,980
)
Long-term liabilities
 
 
 (9,950
)
Redeemable non-controlling interest
 
 
 (19,376
)
Non-controlling interests
 
 
 (255
)
 
 
$
 (31,763
)
 
 
 
 
 
Note consideration
 
$
 (3,611
)
Cash consideration, net of cash acquired of $12,428
 
 
 (108,245
)
Acquisition date fair value of contingent consideration
 
 
 (17,838
)
Total purchase consideration
 
$
 (129,694
)
 
 
 
 
 
Acquired intangible assets
 
$
 53,746
 
Goodwill
 
$
 107,711
 

2013 acquisitions:
The Company completed eleven individually insignificant acquisitions, eight in the CRE segment and three in the RRE segment.  In the CRE segment, the Company acquired controlling interest in Colliers Schauer & Scholl GmbH, Colliers Brautigam & Kramer GmbH, Colliers Schon and Lopez Schmitt GmbH, and Trombello Kölbel Immobilienconsulting GmbH (collectively, “Colliers Germany”) as well as four regional firms in the Netherlands, Australia, Canada and Brazil. These acquisitions expanded the CRE segment’s geographic presence to new markets, including Munich, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf and Berlin. In the RRE segment, the Company acquired firms operating in Missouri, Florida and Alberta, expanding FirstService’s geographic presence in these markets.

 
 

 
Details of these acquisitions are as follows:

 
 
Aggregate
Acquisitions
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
$
 25,723 
 
Non-current assets
 
 
 2,733 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 (35,308
)
Long-term liabilities
 
 
 (18,155
)
Redeemable non-controlling interest
 
 
 (43,531
)
Non-controlling interests
 
 
 (3,629
)
 
 
$
 (72,167
)
 
 
 
 
 
Note consideration
 
$
 (776
)
Cash consideration, net of cash acquired of $22,984
 
 
 (37,735
)
Acquisition date fair value of contingent consideration
 
 
 (9,556
)
Total purchase consideration
 
$
 (48,067
)
 
 
 
 
 
Gain on revaluation of previously held equity investment
 
$
 (820
)
 
 
 
 
 
Acquired intangible assets
 
$
 52,244 
 
Goodwill
 
$
 68,810 
 
 
During the year, the company recorded a gain upon obtaining control of a business previously accounted for as an equity investment totaling $820 (See note 5).  The gain relates to the revaluation of the previously held equity investment to fair value.

2012 acquisitions:
The Company completed five individually insignificant acquisitions, two in the CRE segment, two in the RRE segment and one in the Property Services segment.  In the CRE segment, the Company acquired assets and select liabilities of Colliers International UK plc (in administration) (“CI UK”) and a regional firm operating in Victoria, Australia. These acquisitions expanded the CRE segment’s geographic presence to new markets, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Spain and Victoria, Australia.  In the RRE segment, the acquired firms operate in California and Arizona and expand the Company’s service offering in existing markets.  In Property Services, the acquired firm operates in Florida and expands the Company’s geographic presence in an existing market.

Details of these acquisitions are as follows:

 
 
Aggregate
Acquisitions
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
$
 30,427 
 
Non-current assets
 
 
 3,164 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 (21,169
)
Long-term liabilities
 
 
 (1,080
)
Redeemable non-controlling interests
 
 
 (753
)
Non-controlling interests
 
 
 (1,153
)
 
 
$
 9,436 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note consideration
 
$
 (655
)
Cash consideration, net of cash acquired of $419
 
 
 (19,153
)
Acquisition date fair value of contingent consideration
 
 
 (1,944
)
Total purchase consideration
 
$
 (21,752
)
 
 
 
 
 
Acquired intangible assets
 
$
 7,420 
 
Goodwill
 
$
 4,896 
 

 
 

 
Acquisition-related transaction costs for the year ended December 31, 2014 totaled $9,454 (2013 - $3,336; 2012 - $5,032) and were recorded as expense under the caption “acquisition-related items”.
  
In all years presented, the fair values of non-controlling interests were determined using an income approach with reference to a discounted free cash flow model using the same assumptions implied in determining the purchase consideration.

The purchase price allocations of acquisitions resulted in the recognition of goodwill.  The primary factors contributing to goodwill are assembled workforces, synergies with existing operations and future growth prospects.  For acquisitions completed during the year ended December 31, 2014, goodwill in the amount of $7,620 is deductible for income tax purposes (2013 - $2,823; 2012 - $2,214).
  
The Company typically structures its business acquisitions to include contingent consideration.  Vendors, at the time of acquisition, are entitled to receive a contingent consideration payment if the acquired businesses achieve specified earnings levels during the one- to four-year periods following the dates of acquisition.  The ultimate amount of payment is determined based on a formula, the key inputs to which are (i) a contractually agreed maximum payment; (ii) a contractually specified earnings level and (iii) the actual earnings for the contingency period.  If the acquired business does not achieve the specified earnings level, the maximum payment is reduced for any shortfall, potentially to nil.

Unless it contains an element of compensation, contingent consideration is recorded at fair value each reporting period.  The fair value recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as at December 31, 2014 was $27,136 (see note 19).  The estimated range of outcomes (undiscounted) for these contingent consideration arrangements is determined based on the formula price and the likelihood of achieving specified earnings levels over the contingency period, and ranges from $33,279 to a maximum of $36,163.  These contingencies will expire during the period extending to June 2018.  During the year ended December 31, 2014, $25,814 was paid with reference to such contingent consideration (2013 - $1,994; 2012 - $5,492).

The acquisitions referred to above were accounted for by the purchase method of accounting for business combinations. Accordingly, the accompanying consolidated statements of earnings do not include any revenues or expenses related to these acquisitions prior to their respective closing dates.  The consideration for the acquisitions during the year ended December 31, 2014 was financed from borrowings on the Company’s revolving credit facility and cash on hand.

The amounts of revenues and earnings contributed from the date of acquisition and included in the Company’s consolidated results for the year ended December 31, 2014, and the supplemental pro forma revenues and earnings of the combined entity had the acquisition date been January 1, 2012, are as follows:

 
Revenues
 
Net earnings
from continuing
operations
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Actual from acquired entities for 2014
  $
97,507
    $
3,578
 
Supplemental pro forma for 2014 (unaudited)
    2,815,188      
94,111
 
Supplemental pro forma for 2013 (unaudited)
    2,554,036      
58,335
 
Supplemental pro forma for 2012 (unaudited)
    2,385,375      
56,371
 

Supplemental pro forma results were adjusted for non-recurring items.

4. 
Discontinued operations

In April 2014, the Company completed the sale of its REO rental operation for cash consideration of $1,500.  The pre-tax loss on disposal was $1,601, before income tax recovery of $773 resulting in a net loss of $828.  In July 2014, the Company completed the sale of a U.S.-based commercial real estate consulting operation for cash consideration of $12,100.  The pre-tax gain on disposal was $6,607, before income tax expense of $3,023 resulting in a net gain of $3,584.

 
 

 
On September 30, 2013, the Company completed the sale of its Field Asset Services operation for cash consideration of $49,460 (net of cash disposed of $5,177).  The pre-tax loss on disposal was $7,158, before an income tax recovery of $3,100, resulting in a net loss of $4,058.

Discontinued operations include three businesses: (i) Field Asset Services (previously in the Property Services segment), (ii) the REO rental operation (previously in the Residential Real Estate Services segment), and iii) a U.S.-based commercial real estate consulting operation (previously in the Commercial Real Estate Services segment).
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Revenues
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
     Field Asset Services
  $ -     $ 58,063     $ 163,413  
     REO rental operation
    3,244       24,733       31,658  
     CRE consulting operation
    6,889       12,444       11,479  
 
    10,133       95,240       206,550  
Operating earnings (loss) before income taxes
                       
     Field Asset Services
  $ -     $ (3,623 )   $ (5,072 )
     REO rental operation
    (2,580 )     (2,315 )     3,085  
     CRE consulting operation
    926       1,459       1,098  
 
    (1,654 )     (4,479 )     (889 )
Recovery of income taxes
    (756 )     (3,579 )     (429 )
Net operating loss from discontinued operations
    (898 )     (900 )     (460 )
 
                       
Net gain (loss) on disposal
    2,756       (4,058 )     -  
Non-controlling interest share of earnings
    (321 )     (225 )     (211 )
Net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders from discontinued operations
  $ 1,537     $ (5,183 )   $ (671 )
 
                       
Net earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations
                       
     Basic
  $ 0.04     $ (0.16 )   $ (0.02 )
     Diluted
    0.04       (0.16 )     (0.02 )

The assets and liabilities of discontinued operations as at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Current assets
 
 
   
 
 
     REO rental operation
  $ -     $ 12,531  
     CRE consulting operation
    -       5,004  
 
    -       17,535  
Non-current assets
               
     REO rental operation
    -       1,259  
     CRE consulting operation
    -       2,827  
 
    -       4,086  
Total assets
  $ -     $ 21,621  
 
               
Current liabilities
               
     REO rental operation
  $ -     $ 4,206  
     CRE consulting operation
    -       1,861  
 
    -       6,067  
Non-current liabilities
               
     REO rental operation
    -       290  
     CRE consulting operation
    -       501  
 
    -       791  
Total liabilities
  $ -     $ 6,858  

 
 

 
5.
Acquisition-related items
 
Acquisition-related expense (income) is comprised of the following:
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Transaction costs
  $ 9,454     $ 3,336     $ 5,032  
Contingent consideration fair value adjustments
    2,145       1,801       3,645  
Contingent consideration compensation expense
    226       6,181       5,096  
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive loss
    -       -       2,553  
Gain on revaluation of previously held equity investment (note 3)
    -       (820 )     -  
 
  $ 11,825     $ 10,498     $ 16,326  
 
Contingent consideration compensation expense and contingent consideration fair value adjustments relate to acquisitions made in the current year as well as acquisitions made in the preceding four years.

On March 28, 2012, CI UK entered into an administration process, and as a result the Company’s 29.5% equity investment, held since October 2009, ceased.  As such, the company released $2,553 of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to this investment into earnings.
 
6.
Other (income) expense
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Earnings from equity method investments
  $ (589 )   $ (1,107 )   $ (1,230 )
Other
    (419 )     (417 )     (1,211 )
 
  $ (1,008 )   $ (1,524 )   $ (2,441 )
 
7.
Components of working capital accounts
 
 
 
December 31,
2014
   
December 31,
2013
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Inventories
 
 
   
 
 
Work-in-progress
  $ 10,525     $ 8,748  
Finished goods
    4,189       2,973  
Supplies and other
    4,236       4,083  
 
  $ 18,950     $ 15,804  
 
               
Accrued liabilities
               
Accrued payroll, commission and benefits
  $ 311,781     $ 278,641  
Accrued interest
    3,112       3,584  
Customer advances
    5,176       5,505  
Other
    114,750      
104,647
 
 
  $ 434,819     $ 392,377  

 
 

 
 
8.
Other assets
 
 
 
December 31,
2014
   
December 31,
2013
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Equity method investments
  $ 5,168     $ 4,946  
Financing fees, net of accumulated amortization of $3,598 (December 31, 2013 - $3,328)
    1,359       1,731  
Other
    12,960       5,579  
 
  $ 19,487     $ 12,256  
 
9.
Fixed assets
 
   
Cost
   
Accumulated
depreciation
   
Net
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Land
  $ 2,524     $ -     $ 2,524  
Buildings
    11,591       4,514       7,077  
Vehicles
    33,385       24,082       9,303  
Furniture and equipment
    73,306       46,448       26,858  
Computer equipment and software
    130,006       89,527       40,479  
Leasehold improvements
    67,544       33,391       34,153  
 
  $ 318,356     $ 197,962     $ 120,394  
 
     
Cost
     
Accumulated
depreciation
     
Net
 
 
                       
Land
  $ 2,527     $ -     $ 2,527  
Buildings
    11,803       4,213       7,590  
Vehicles
    30,516       22,901       7,615  
Furniture and equipment
    66,289       47,971       18,318  
Computer equipment and software
    123,637       87,121       36,516  
Leasehold improvements
    62,079       33,091       28,988  
 
  $ 296,851     $ 195,297     $ 101,554  

Included in fixed assets are vehicles, office and computer equipment under capital lease at a cost of $7,919 (2013 - $8,140) and net book value of $4,705 (2013 - $4,028).
 
10.
Intangible assets
 
December 31, 2014
 
 
 
Gross
carrying
amount
   
Accumulated
amortization
   
Net
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Customer lists and relationships
  $ 192,169     $ 70,764     $ 121,405  
Franchise rights
    42,733       16,753       25,980  
Trademarks and trade names:
                       
Indefinite life
   
24,178
      -      
24,178
 
Finite life
   
25,294
      12,020      
13,274
 
Management contracts and other
    28,833       16,044       12,789  
Brokerage backlog
    2,742       2,679       63  
 
  $ 315,949     $ 118,260     $ 197,689  
 
 
 

 
 
December 31, 2013
 
 
 
Gross
carrying
amount
   
Accumulated
amortization
   
Net
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Customer lists and relationships
  $ 168,966     $ 58,054     $ 110,912  
Franchise rights
    36,754       15,762       20,992  
Trademarks and trade names:
                       
Indefinite life
    24,720       -       24,720  
Finite life
    32,753       18,540       14,213  
Management contracts and other
    22,853       16,520       6,333  
Brokerage backlog
    2,452       2,443       9  
 
  $ 288,498     $ 111,319     $ 177,179  
 
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company acquired the following intangible assets:
 
 
Amount
   
Estimated
weighted
average
amortization
period (years)
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Customer lists and relationships
  $ 43,792       10.9  
Franchise rights
    7,800       17.6  
Trademarks and trade names - indefinite life
    303       -  
Trademarks and trade names - finite life
    1,790       4.1  
Brokerage backlog
    1,195       0.5  
Other
    920       5.7  
 
  $ 55,800       11.3  
 
The following is the estimated annual amortization expense for recorded intangible assets for each of the next five years ending December 31:
 
2015 
 
$
 24,047 
 
2016 
 
 
 22,779 
 
2017 
 
 
 20,818 
 
2018 
 
 
 19,350 
 
2019 
 
 
 17,436 
 
 
11.
Goodwill
 
 
 
Commercial
Real Estate
Services
   
Residential
Real Estate
Services
   
Property
Services
   
Consolidated
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2012
  $ 155,308     $ 161,251     $ 86,086     $ 402,645  
Goodwill acquired during the year
    65,517       3,293       -       68,810  
Goodwill disposed during the year
    -       -       (37,195 )     (37,195 )
Other items
    -       (217 )     -       (217 )
Foreign exchange
    (5,116 )     (1,449 )     (300 )     (6,865 )
Balance, December 31, 2013
    215,709       162,878       48,591       427,178  
Goodwill acquired during the year
    99,567       4,288       3,856       107,711  
Goodwill disposed during the year
    (1,104 )     (691 )             (1,795 )
Other items
    (1,120 )     (61 )     -       (1,181 )
Foreign exchange
    (26,560 )     (1,395 )     (404 )     (28,359 )
Balance, December 31, 2014
    286,492       165,019       52,043       503,554  
Goodwill
    316,075       165,019       52,043       533,137  
Accumulated impairment loss
    (29,583 )     -       -       (29,583 )
 
  $ 286,492     $ 165,019     $ 52,043     $ 503,554  

 
 

 
A test for goodwill impairment is required to be completed annually, in the Company’s case as of August 1, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate the asset might be impaired.  No goodwill impairments were identified in 2014, 2013 or 2012.  The accumulated impairment loss reflects a goodwill impairment incurred in 2009.
 
12.
Long-term debt
 
 
 
December 31,
2014
   
December 31,
2013
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Revolving credit facility
  $ 299,061     $ 148,647  
3.84% Notes
    150,000       150,000  
6.40% Notes
    12,500       25,000  
5.44% Notes
    20,000       40,000  
Unamortized gain on settlement of interest rate swaps
    1,828       107  
Adjustments to long term debt resulting from interest rate swaps
    27       (5,196 )
Capital leases maturing at various dates through 2018
    4,228       2,555  
Other long-term debt maturing at various dates up to 2018
    5,704       11,681  
 
    493,348       372,794  
Less: current portion
    36,396       44,785  
Long-term debt - non-current
  $ 456,952     $ 328,009  

The Company has an amended and restated credit agreement with a syndicate of banks to provide a $500,000 committed revolving credit facility.  The revolving credit facility has a five-year term ending March 1, 2017 and bears interest at 1.25% to 3.00% over floating reference rates, depending on certain leverage ratios.  The weighted average interest rate for 2014 was 1.6% (2013 - 2.0%).  The revolving credit facility had $155,583 of available un-drawn credit as at December 31, 2014 ($166,349 was un-drawn at December 31, 2013).  As of December 31, 2014, letters of credit in the amount of $7,856 were outstanding ($7,770 as at December 31, 2013).  The revolving credit facility requires a commitment fee of 0.25% to 0.60% of the unused portion, depending on certain leverage ratios.

On January 16, 2013, the Company completed a private placement for $150,000 of senior secured notes with a fixed interest rate of 3.84% (the “3.84% Notes”).  The 3.84% Notes were placed directly with two US based institutional investors.  The 3.84% Notes have a twelve year term extending to January 16, 2025 with five annual principal repayments beginning on January 16, 2021.

The Company has outstanding $12,500 of 6.40% fixed-rate senior secured notes (the “6.40% Notes”).  The 6.40% Notes have a final maturity of September 30, 2015 with four equal annual principal repayments which began on September 30, 2012.  The Company also has outstanding $20,000 of 5.44% fixed-rate senior secured notes (the “5.44% Notes”).  The 5.44% Notes have a final maturity of April 1, 2015 with five equal annual principal repayments of $20,000 which began on April 1, 2011.

The Company has indemnified the holders of the 3.84% Notes, the 6.40% Notes and the 5.44% Notes (collectively, the “Notes”) from all withholding tax that is or may become applicable to any payments made by the Company on the Notes.  The Company believes this exposure is not material as of December 31, 2014.

The revolving credit facility and the Notes rank equally in terms of seniority.  The Company has granted these lenders collateral including the following: an interest in all of the assets of the Company including the Company’s shares of its subsidiaries; an assignment of material contracts; and an assignment of the Company’s “call” rights with respect to shares of the subsidiaries held by non-controlling interests.

The covenants of the revolving credit facility and the Notes agreements require the Company to maintain certain ratios including leverage, interest coverage and net worth.  The Company is prohibited from undertaking certain mergers, acquisitions and dispositions without prior approval.

 
 

 
The effective interest rate on the Company’s long-term debt for the year ended December 31, 2014 was 3.0% (2013 - 4.5%).  The estimated aggregate amount of principal repayments on long-term debt required in each of the next five years ending December 31 and thereafter to meet the retirement provisions are as follows:

2015 
 
$
 36,396
 
2016 
 
 
 3,716
 
2017 
 
 
 300,661
 
2018 
 
 
 566
 
2019 and thereafter
   
152,009
 

13. 
Redeemable non-controlling interests

The minority equity positions in the Company’s subsidiaries are referred to as redeemable non-controlling interests (“RNCI”).  The RNCI are considered to be redeemable securities.  Accordingly, the RNCI is recorded at the greater of (i) the redemption amount or (ii) the amount initially recorded as RNCI at the date of inception of the minority equity position.  This amount is recorded in the “mezzanine” section of the balance sheet, outside of shareholders’ equity.  Changes in the RNCI amount are recognized immediately as they occur.  The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending RNCI amounts:

 
 
2014
   
2013
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Balance, January 1
  $ 222,073     $ 147,751  
RNCI share of earnings
    22,539       13,976  
RNCI redemption increment
    19,420       41,430  
Distributions paid to RNCI
    (21,421 )     (17,878 )
Purchases of interests from RNCI, net
    (31,677 )     (5,242 )
RNCI recognized on business acquisitions
    19,376       43,531  
Other
    682       (1,495 )
Balance, December 31
  $ 230,992     $ 222,073  

The Company has shareholders’ agreements in place at each of its non-wholly owned subsidiaries.  These agreements allow the Company to “call” the non-controlling interest at a price determined with the use of a formula price, which is usually equal to a fixed multiple of average annual net earnings before extraordinary items, income taxes, interest, depreciation, and amortization.  The agreements also have redemption features which allow the owners of the RNCI to “put” their equity to the Company at the same price subject to certain limitations.  The formula price is referred to as the redemption amount and may be paid in cash or in Subordinate Voting Shares.  The redemption amount as of December 31, 2014 was $229,259 (2013 - $215,747).  The redemption amount is lower than that recorded on the balance sheet as the formula price of certain RNCI are lower than the amount initially recorded at the inception of the minority equity position.  If all put or call options were settled with Subordinate Voting Shares as at December 31, 2014, approximately 4,300,000 (2013 - 5,100,000) such shares would be issued, and would have resulted in an increase of $1.05 to diluted earnings per share from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 (2013 - $1.64).
 
 
 

 
14. 
Capital stock

The authorized capital stock of the Company is as follows:

An unlimited number of Preferred Shares, issuable in series;
An unlimited number of Subordinate Voting Shares having one vote per share; and
An unlimited number of Multiple Voting Shares having 20 votes per share, convertible at any time into Subordinate Voting Shares at a rate of one Subordinate Voting Share for each Multiple Voting Share outstanding.
 
The following table provides a summary of total capital stock issued and outstanding:

 
 
Subordinate Voting Shares
   
Multiple Voting Shares
   
Total Common Shares
 
 
 
Number
   
Amount
   
Number
 
Amount
   
Number
 
Amount
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2013
    34,476,038     $ 300,392       1,325,694     $ 373       35,801,732     $ 300,765  
Balance, December 31, 2014
    34,481,261       310,028       1,325,694       373       35,806,955       310,401  

On May 3, 2013, the Company eliminated all of its outstanding Preferred Shares, redeeming 30% for cash consideration of $39,232 and converting all remaining Preferred Shares into Subordinate Voting Shares.   The Preferred Shares were converted to Subordinate Voting Shares based on 95% of the weighted average trading price of the Subordinate Voting Shares on the NASDAQ stock market for the 20 trading days ended April 29, 2013 (such weighted average trading price being $33.34).  As a result, 2,889,900 new Subordinate Voting Shares were issued from treasury.

On September 24, 2013, the Company redeemed its outstanding Convertible Debentures, issuing 2,744,886 Subordinate Voting Shares.

Pursuant to an agreement approved in February 2004, the Company agreed that it will make payments to its Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) that are contingent upon the arm’s length sale of control of the Company or upon a distribution of the Company’s assets to shareholders.  The payment amounts will be determined with reference to the price per Subordinate Voting Share received by shareholders upon an arm’s length sale or upon a distribution of assets.  The right to receive the payments may be transferred among members of the CEO’s family, their holding companies and trusts.  The agreement provides for the CEO to receive each of the following two payments.  The first payment is an amount equal to 5% of the product of: (i) the total number of Subordinate and Multiple Voting Shares outstanding on a fully diluted basis at the time of the sale and (ii) the per share consideration received by holders of Subordinate and Multiple Voting Shares minus a base price of C$5.675.  The second payment is an amount equal to 5% of the product of (i) the total number of shares outstanding on a fully diluted basis at the time of the sale and (ii) the per share consideration received by holders of Subordinate Voting Shares minus a base price of C$11.05.  Assuming an arm’s length sale of control of the Company took place on December 31, 2014, the amount required to be paid to the CEO, based on a market price of C$59.28, would be $163,585.

15. 
Stock-based compensation

Company stock option plan
The Company has a stock option plan for certain officers and key full-time employees of the Company and its subsidiaries, other than its CEO.  Options are granted at the market price for the underlying shares on the date of grant.  Each option vests over a four-year term, expires five years from the date granted and allows for the purchase of one Subordinate Voting Share.  All Subordinate Voting Shares issued are new shares.  As at December 31, 2014, there were 963,250 options available for future grants.

Grants under the Company’s stock option plan are equity-classified awards.  Stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:

 
 

 
 
 
 
Number of
options
   
Weighted
average
exercise price
   
Weighted average
remaining
contractual life
(years)
   
Aggregate
intrinsic value
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Shares issuable under options - December 31, 2011
    1,895,550     $ 20.83                  
Granted
    367,000       31.48                  
Exercised
    (363,850 )     19.15                  
Forfeited
    (169,500 )     32.38                  
Shares issuable under options - December 31, 2012
    1,729,200     $ 22.31                  
Granted
    422,000       31.35                  
Exercised
    (464,150 )     16.20                  
Shares issuable under options - December 31, 2013
    1,687,050     $ 26.25                  
Granted
    343,000       49.57                  
Exercised
    (558,150 )     19.26                  
Forfeited
    (8,000 )     31.28                  
Shares issuable under options - December 31, 2014
    1,463,900     $ 34.35       2.6     $ 24,176  
Options exercisable - End of period
    560,450     $ 29.19       1.7     $ 12,148  

The Company incurred stock-based compensation expense related to these awards of $4,077 during the year ended December 31, 2014 (2013 - $4,166; 2012 - $3,169).

As at December 31, 2014, the range of option exercise prices was $19.15 to $49.54 per share.  Also as at December 31, 2014, the aggregate intrinsic value and weighted average remaining contractual life for in-the-money options vested and expected to vest were $24,176 and 2.6 years, respectively.

The following table summarizes information about option exercises during years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:

 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Number of options exercised
    558,150       464,150       363,850  
 
                       
Aggregate fair value
  $ 27,973     $ 16,780     $ 11,198  
Intrinsic value
    17,223       9,313       4,265  
Amount of cash received
    10,750       7,467       6,933  
 
                       
Tax benefit recognized
  $ 5,856     $ 3,148     $ 1,438  

As at December 31, 2014, there was $3,754 of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards which is expected to be recognized over the next 4 years.  During the year ended December 31, 2014, the fair value of options vested was $3,750 (2013 - $3,956; 2012 - $3,485).

The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, utilizing the following weighted average assumptions:

 
 

 
 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Risk free rate
    0.9 %     0.4 %     0.4 %
Expected life in years
    4.75       4.75       4.75  
Expected volatility
    25.5 %     37.5 %     40.3 %
Dividend yield
    0.8 %     0.0 %     0.0 %
 
                       
Weighted average fair value per option granted
  $ 10.52     $ 10.13     $ 10.87  

The risk-free interest rate is based on the implied yield of a zero-coupon US Treasury bond with a term equal to the option’s expected term.  The expected life in years represents the estimated period of time until exercise and is based on historical experience.  The expected volatility is based on the historical prices of the Company’s shares over the previous four years.

Subsidiary stock option plan
The Company has a stock option plan at its Commercial Real Estate subsidiary entitling the holders to acquire up to a 1.3% interest in the subsidiary as at December 31, 2014.  As of December 31, 2014 a 5.0% interest in the subsidiary was held by those who had previously exercised stock options under the plan.  Options, as well as shares acquired upon option exercise under the subsidiary stock option plan, are liability classified awards because the underlying stock is also classified as a liability.  The fair value of the liability relating to these awards is calculated each period using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.  The fair value of the liability related to these awards as at December 31, 2014 was $16,892 (2013 - $12,834) and compensation expense recognized related to the awards for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $9,006 (2013 - $8,568; 2012 - $4,266).

16. 
Income tax

Income tax differs from the amounts that would be obtained by applying the statutory rate to the respective year’s earnings before tax. Differences result from the following items:

 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Income tax expense using combined statutory rate of 26.5% (2013 - 26.5%, 2012 - 26.5%)
  $ 32,117     $ 18,233     $ 16,463  
Permanent differences
    4,507       4,125       3,286  
Tax effect of flow through entities
    (1,005 )     (2,156 )     (3,663 )
Impairment and other charges
    669       -       676  
Impact of changes in foreign exchange rates
    (1,172 )     (518 )     1,546  
Adjustments to tax liabilities for prior periods
    274       925       721  
Effects of changes in enacted tax rates
    12       250       (14 )
Changes in liability for unrecognized tax benefits
    (5,015 )     181       352  
Stock-based compensation
    1,779       2,201       (47 )
Foreign, state and provincial tax rate differential
    (1,312 )     (3,726 )     (714 )
Impact of expired losses
    696       -       -  
Tax on preferred shares
    -       880       -  
Other taxes
   
1,735
      1,906       94  
Change in valuation allowances
   
(1,486
)     (97 )     2,033  
Provision for income taxes as reported
  $ 31,799     $ 22,204     $ 20,733  
 
Earnings before income tax by jurisdiction comprise the following:
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Canada
  $ 18,078     $ 1,977     $ 22,438  
United States
    7,974       3,154       8,713  
Australia
    42,224       33,061       25,800  
Foreign
    52,922       30,613       5,175  
Total
  $ 121,198     $ 68,805     $ 62,126  
 
 
 

 
Income tax expense (recovery) comprises the following:
 
 
    2014       2013       2012  
 
                       
Current
                       
Canada
  $ 144     $ 11,137     $ 5,771  
United States
    4,123       2,588       17,865  
Australia
    13,393       11,088       8,526  
Foreign
    14,677       11,860       4,729  
 
    32,337       36,673       36,891  
 
                       
Deferred
                       
Canada
    4,086       (7,627 )     364  
United States
    (2,403 )     (2,435 )     (14,500 )
Australia
    (384 )     (1,079 )     (743 )
Foreign
    (1,837 )     (3,328 )     (1,279 )
 
    (538 )     (14,469 )     (16,158 )
Total
  $ 31,799     $ 22,204     $ 20,733  

The significant components of deferred income tax are as follows:
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Deferred income tax assets
 
 
   
 
 
Loss carry-forwards
  $ 79,932     $ 91,957  
Expenses not currently deductible
    33,240       23,467  
Stock-based compensation
    4,797       3,956  
Basis differences of partnerships and other entities
    17,442       14,173  
Allowance for doubtful accounts
    4,405       4,580  
Inventory and other reserves
    4,006       2,554  
 
    143,822       140,687  
Less: valuation allowance
    (14,560 )     (14,120 )
 
    129,262       126,567  
Deferred income tax liabilities
               
Depreciation and amortization
    36,205       31,165  
Prepaid and other expenses deducted for tax purposes
    1,804       1,427  
 
    38,009       32,592  
Net deferred income tax asset
  $ 91,253     $ 93,975  

The recoverability of deferred income tax assets is dependent on generating sufficient taxable income before the 20 year loss carry-forward limitation. Although realization is not assured, the Company believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be realized. The amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income during the carry-forward period are reduced.

The Company has gross operating loss carry-forwards as follows:

 
 
Loss carry forward
   
Gross losses not recognized
   
Net
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2014
   
2013
   
2014
   
2013
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Canada
  $ 57,929     $ 72,526     $ 264     $ 2,438     $ 57,665     $ 70,088  
United States
    145,269       164,414       4,099       4,099       141,170       160,315  
Australia
    -       304       -       -       -       304  
Foreign
    45,508       46,901       32,937       41,412       12,571       5,489  
 
 
 

 
The Company has gross capital loss carry-forwards as follows:
 
 
Loss carry forward
 
Gross losses not recognized
 
Net
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Canada
  $ 4,655     $ 939     $ 4,655     $ 939     $ -     $ -  
United States
    -       4,197       -       4,197       -       -  
Australia
    7,434       8,123       7,434       8,123       -       -  

These amounts above are available to reduce future federal and provincial income taxes in their respective jurisdictions.  Net operating loss carry-forward balances attributable to the United States and Canada expire over the next 14 to 20 years.  Net operating loss carry-forward balances attributable to Australia are carried forward indefinitely subject to certain continuity of ownership conditions.

Cumulative unremitted earnings of US and foreign subsidiaries approximated $271,890 as at December 31, 2014 (2013 - $186,121).  Income tax is not provided on the unremitted earnings of US and foreign subsidiaries because it has been the practice and is the intention of the Company to reinvest these earnings indefinitely in these subsidiaries.

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of the liability for unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

Balance, December 31, 2012
 
$
 7,914 
 
Increases based on tax positions related to 2013
 
 
 384 
 
Increases for tax positions of prior periods
 
 
 562 
 
Reduction for lapses in applicable statutes of limitations
 
 
 (840)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2013
 
 
 8,020 
 
Increases based on tax positions related to 2014
 
 
 65 
 
Increases for tax positions of prior periods
 
 
 1,595 
 
Reduction for settlements with taxing authorities
 
 
 (3,713)
 
Reduction for lapses in applicable statutes of limitations
 
 
 (1,634)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2014
 
$
 4,333 
 

Of the $4,333 (2013 - $8,020) in gross unrecognized tax benefits, $4,333, (2013 - $8,226) would affect the Company’s effective tax rate if recognized.  For the year ended December 31, 2014, a recovery of $26 in interest and penalties related to provisions for income tax was recorded in income tax expense (2013 - recovery of $29; 2012 - recovery of $38).  As at December 31, 2014, the Company had accrued $125 (2013 - $151) for potential income tax related interest and penalties.

Within the next twelve months, the Company believes it is reasonably possible that $313 of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions may be reduced due to lapses in statutes of limitations.

The Company’s significant tax jurisdictions include the United States, Canada and Australia.  The number of years with open tax audits varies depending on the tax jurisdictions.  Generally, income tax returns filed with the Canada Revenue Agency and related provinces are open for three to four years and income tax returns filed with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and related states are open for three to five years.  Tax returns in Australia are generally open for four years.

The Canada Revenue Agency commenced an examination of the Company’s Canadian income tax return for the years 2010 and 2011 that was completed by the end of 2014. 

The Company does not currently expect any other material impact on earnings to result from the resolution of matters related to open taxation years, other than noted above.  Actual settlements may differ from the amounts accrued.  The Company has, as part of its analysis, made its current estimates based on facts and circumstances known to date and cannot predict changes in facts and circumstances that may affect its current estimates.

 
 

 
17. 
Net earnings (loss) per common share

Earnings per share calculations cannot be anti-dilutive, therefore diluted shares are not used in the denominator when the numerator is in a loss position.  The following table reconciles the denominator used to calculate earnings per common share:

 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Shares issued and outstanding at beginning of period
    35,801,732       30,070,104       29,941,254  
Weighted average number of shares:
                       
Issued during the period
    335,253       2,968,064       250,868  
Repurchased during the period
    (220,333 )     (110,455 )     (165,703 )
Weighted average number of shares used in computing basic earnings per share
    35,916,652       32,927,713       30,026,419  
Assumed exercise of stock options, net of shares assumed acquired under the Treasury Stock Method
    392,326       334,586       349,531  
Number of shares used in computing diluted earningsper share
    36,308,978       33,262,299       30,375,950  
 
18.
Other supplemental information
 
 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Franchisor operations
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Revenues
  $ 90,684     $ 80,450     $ 75,025  
Operating earnings
    22,071       19,435       16,801  
Initial franchise fee revenues
    5,042       5,817       5,950  
 
                       
Cash payments made during the period
                       
Income taxes
  $ 56,336     $ 46,159     $ 25,673  
Interest
    15,370       17,314       18,860  
 
                       
Non-cash financing activities
                       
Increases in capital lease obligations
  $ 3,714     $ 2,215     $ 2,948  
 
                       
Other expenses
                       
Rent expense
  $ 73,281     $ 69,489     $ 68,580  

19. 
Financial instruments

Concentration of credit risk
The Company is subject to credit risk with respect to its cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and other receivables.  Concentrations of credit risk with respect to cash and cash equivalents are limited by the use of multiple large and reputable banks.  Concentrations of credit risk with respect to the receivables are limited due to the large number of entities comprising the Company’s customer base and their dispersion across many different service lines in various countries.

Foreign currency risk
Foreign currency risk is related to the portion of the Company’s business transactions denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars.  A significant portion of revenue is generated by the Company’s Canadian, Australian, U.K. and European operations.  The Company’s head office expenses are incurred in Canadian dollars which is hedged by Canadian dollar denominated revenue.

Fluctuations in foreign currencies impact the amount of total assets and liabilities that are reported for foreign subsidiaries upon the translation of these amounts into U.S. dollars. In particular, the amount of working capital, goodwill and intangibles reported in U.S. dollars for a significant portion of the cash held by these subsidiaries is subject to translation variance caused by changes in foreign currency exchange rates as of the end of each respective reporting period (the offset to which is recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income on the Consolidated Balance Sheets ).

 
 

 
Interest rate risk
The Company maintains an interest rate risk management strategy that uses interest rate hedging contracts from time to time.  The Company’s specific goals are to: (i) manage interest rate sensitivity by modifying the characteristics of its debt and (ii) lower the long-term cost of its borrowed funds.  Fluctuations in interest rates affect the fair value of the hedging contracts as their value depends on the prevailing market interest rate.  Hedging contracts are monitored on a monthly basis.

As of December 31, 2014, the Company was party to one interest rate swap agreement to exchange the fixed rate on a portion of its debt to a floating rate.  On the 5.44% Senior Notes, an interest rate swap exchanges the fixed rate on $10,000 of principal for LIBOR (6 month in arrears) + 3.87%.  The terms of the swap match the term of the 5.44% Senior Notes with a maturity of April 1, 2015.

The interest rate swap is being accounted for as a fair value hedge.  The swap is carried at fair value on the balance sheet, with gains or losses recognized in earnings.  The carrying value of the hedged debt is adjusted for changes in fair value attributable to the hedged interest rate risk; the associated gains or losses are recognized concurrently in earnings.  So long as the hedge is considered highly effective, the net impact on earnings is nil.

The following tables provide fair value information of the hedging instruments and the effect of the hedging instruments during the period:

 
 
2014
 
Derivative designated as hedging instrument
 
Balance sheet
location
 
Fair
Value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap asset
 
Other assets
(non-current)
  $ 27  

Fair values of financial instruments
The following table provides the financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value measured on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014:

 
Carrying value at
 
Fair value measurements
 
 
December 31, 2014
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
Interest rate swap asset
  $ 27     $ -     $ 27     $ -  
Contingent consideration liability
    27,136       -       -       27,136  

The fair values of the interest rate swap asset and liability was determined using widely accepted valuation techniques.  The inputs to the measurement of the fair value of contingent consideration related to acquisitions are Level 3 inputs.  The fair value measurements were made using a discounted cash flows approach; significant model inputs were expected future operating cash flows (determined with reference to each specific acquired business) and discount rates (which range from 9.0% to 12.5%).  Changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration liability are comprised of the following:

 
 

 
Balance, December 31, 2013
 
$
 8,740 
 
Amounts recognized on acquisitions
 
 
 17,838 
 
Fair value adjustments (note 5)
 
 
 2,371 
 
Resolved and settled in cash
 
 
 (238)
 
Other
 
 
 (1,575)
 
Balance, December 31, 2014
 
$
 27,136 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less: current portion
 
$
 10,971 
 
Non-current portion
 
$
 16,165 
 

The carrying amounts for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair values due to the short maturity of these instruments, unless otherwise indicated.  The inputs to the measurement of the fair value of long term debt are Level 3 inputs.  The fair value measurements were made using a net present value approach; significant model inputs were expected future cash outflows and discount rates (which range from 0.1% to 2.2%).  The following are estimates of the fair values for other financial instruments:

 
2014
 
2013
 
 
Carrying
amount
 
Fair
value
 
Carrying
amount
 
Fair
value
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Other receivables
  $ 6,845     $ 6,845     $ 7,455     $ 7,455  
Long-term debt
    493,348       513,128       372,794       386,952  

Other receivables include notes receivable from non-controlling shareholders and other non-current receivables.
 
20.
Commitments and contingencies
 
(a) Lease commitments
Minimum operating lease payments are as follows:
 
Year ended December 31
 
 
 
 
2015 
 
$
 77,208 
 
2016 
 
 
 68,407 
 
2017 
 
 
 51,676 
 
2018 
 
 
 41,899 
 
2019 
 
 
 35,073 
 
Thereafter
 
 
 95,697 
 

(b)  Contingencies
In the normal course of operations, the Company is subject to routine claims and litigation incidental to its business.  Litigation currently pending or threatened against the Company includes disputes with former employees and commercial liability claims related to services provided by the Company.  The Company believes resolution of such proceedings, combined with amounts set aside, will not have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or the results of operations.

21. 
Related party transactions

The Company has entered into office space rental arrangements and property management contracts with senior managers of certain subsidiaries. These senior managers are usually also minority shareholders of the subsidiaries. The business purpose of the transactions is to rent office space for the Company and to generate property management revenues for the Company. The recorded amount of the rent expense for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $1,080 (2013 - $950; 2012 - $1,573). The recorded amount of the property management revenues for year ended December 31, 2014 was $15,093 (2013 - $12,988; 2012 - $16,198). These amounts are settled monthly in cash, and are priced at market rates. The rental arrangements have fixed terms of up to 10 years. The property management contracts have terms of 1 to 3 years.

 
 

 
As at December 31, 2014, the Company had $4,781 of loans receivable from non-controlling shareholders (2013 - $4,696) and $159 of loans payable to minority shareholders (2013 - $5,081). The business purpose of the loans receivable is to finance the sale of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries to senior managers. The business purpose of the loans payable is to finance purchases of non-controlling interests. The loan amounts are measured based on the formula price of the underlying non-controlling interests, and interest rates are determined based on the Company’s cost of borrowing plus a spread. The loans have terms of 1 to 10 years, but are open for repayment without penalty at any time.

22. 
Segmented information

Operating segments
The Company has three reportable segments. The segments are grouped with reference to the nature of services provided and the types of clients that use those services.  The Company assesses each segment’s performance based on operating earnings or operating earnings before depreciation and amortization.  CRE provides commercial property brokerage and other advisory services to clients in North America and in various other countries around the world.  RRE provides property management and related property services to residential communities in North America.  Property Services provides franchised and Company-owned property services to customers in North America. Corporate includes the costs of operating the Company’s corporate head office.

Effective in the second quarter of 2014, a component of the RRE segment, Service America, became managed by the Property Services management team on the basis that the business had evolved to become more akin to the Property Services operations than the RRE operations.  Service America is a Florida-based provider of heating, ventilation and air conditioning services and related service contracts to residential and commercial customers.  Segment reporting has been revised to reflect Service America in the Property Services segment for all periods presented.  For the year ended December 31, 2014, Service America generated revenues of $49,165 and operating earnings of $1,967 (2013 - $52,818 and $2,896; 2012 - $45,623 and $2,807, respectively).

Included in total assets of the CRE segment at December 31, 2014 is $4,768 (2013 - $4,744) of investments in subsidiaries accounted for under the equity method.  The reportable segment information excludes intersegment transactions.
 
2014
Commercial
Real Estate
Services
 
Residential
Real Estate
Services
 
Property
Services
 
Corporate
 
Consolidated
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Revenues
  $ 1,582,039     $ 919,545     $ 212,457     $ 232     $ 2,714,273  
Depreciation and amortization
    35,753       19,693       6,734       230       62,410  
Operating earnings (loss)
    97,180       31,379       30,559       (24,691 )     134,427  
Other income, net
    0       0        0        0       1,008  
Interest expense, net
    0        0        0       0       (14,237 )
Income taxes
    0        0        0       0       (31,799 )
 
                                       
Net earnings from continuing operations
    0       0       0       0     $ 89,399  
 
                                       
Net loss from discontinued operations
    0       0       0       0     $ 1,537  
 
                                       
Net earnings
    0       0       0       0     $ 90,936  
 
                                       
Total assets
  $ 985,533     $ 405,150     $ 237,140     $ 11,604     $ 1,639,427  
Total additions to long lived assets
    133,296       23,208       16,423       (72 )     172,855  
 
 
 

 
2013
Commercial
Real Estate
Services
 
Residential
Real Estate
Services
 
Property
Services
 
Corporate
 
Consolidated
 
 
                                       
Revenues
  $ 1,306,334     $ 844,952     $ 193,135     $ 204     $ 2,344,625  
Depreciation and amortization
    32,426       30,655       8,557       244       71,882  
Operating earnings (loss)
    59,209       27,613       23,201       (21,243 )     88,780  
Other expense, net
    0       0       0       0       1,524  
Interest expense, net
    0        0       0        0       (21,499 )
Income taxes
    0       0       0       0       (22,204 )
 
                                       
Net earnings from continuing operations
    0       0       0       0     $ 46,601  
 
                                       
Net earnings from discontinued operations
    0        0       0       0     $ (5,183 )
 
                                       
Net earnings
     0       0       0       0     $ 41,418  
 
                                       
Total assets
  $ 797,520     $ 444,275     $ 194,233     $ 7,483     $ 1,443,511  
Total additions to long lived assets
    129,904       22,386       291       (76 )     152,505  
 
2012
Commercial
Real Estate
Services
 
Residential
Real Estate
Services
 
Property
Services
 
Corporate
 
Consolidated
 
 
                                       
Revenues
  $ 1,158,948     $ 768,994     $ 170,827     $ 218     $ 2,098,987  
Depreciation and amortization
    23,990       18,530       5,155       364       48,039  
Operating earnings (loss)
    32,696       39,767       21,798       (15,013 )     79,248  
Other expense, net
    0       0       0        0       2,441  
Interest expense, net
    0        0        0        0       (19,563 )
Income taxes
    0        0        0        0       (20,733 )
 
                                       
Net earnings from continuing operations
    0        0        0        0     $ 41,393  
 
                                       
Net earnings from discontinued operations
    0        0        0        0     $ (671 )
 
                                       
Net earnings
    0        0        0        0     $ 40,722  
 
                                       
Total assets
  $ 633,439     $ 421,269     $ 255,525     $ 7,677     $ 1,317,910  
Total additions to long lived assets
    35,031       18,165       9,291       73       62,560  
 
Geographic information
Revenues in each geographic region are reported by customer locations.  Amounts reported in geographic regions other than the United States, Canada and Australia are primarily denominated in US dollars, UK pounds and Euros.

 
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
United States
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Revenues
  $ 1,554,605     $ 1,392,442     $ 1,284,212  
Total long-lived assets
    401,101       395,069       468,602  
 
                       
Canada
                       
Revenues
  $ 354,259     $ 341,491     $ 330,622  
Total long-lived assets
    97,929       88,660       99,529  
 
                       
Australia
                       
Revenues
  $ 230,948     $ 199,221     $ 177,677  
Total long-lived assets
    51,083       44,811       49,269  
 
                       
Europe and Other
                       
Revenues
  $ 574,461     $ 411,471     $ 306,476  
Total long-lived assets
    271,524       177,371       70,205  
 
                    .  
Consolidated
                       
Revenues
  $ 2,714,273     $ 2,344,625     $ 2,098,987  
Total long-lived assets
    821,637       705,911       687,605  
 
 
 

 
23.           Impact of recently issued accounting standards
 
In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. This ASU changes the threshold for reporting discontinued operations and adds new disclosures. This ASU is effective for the Company on January 1, 2015. The Company expects that the adoption of this ASU will result in fewer disposals of businesses to be reported as discontinued operations.
 
In May 2014, FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This ASU clarifies the principles for recognizing revenue and develops a common revenue standard for U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and is effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this ASU on its financial position and results of operations.

24.           Subsequent event

On February 10, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a plan, in principle, to separate the Company into two independent public companies – Colliers International, comprised of the Commercial Real Estate Services segment, and FirstService, comprised of the Residential Real Estate Services and Property Services segments. The proposed spin-off will be implemented through a court-approved Plan of Arrangement, and is subject to final approval from the Board of Directors.  The Plan of Arrangement will also be subject to regulatory, court and shareholder approvals.