Investments
The Company holds minor equity investments in certain companies over which we exert significant influence, but do not control the financial and operating decisions. These are accounted for as equity method investments. Other equity investments that are not controlled, and over which we do not have the ability to exercise significant influence, and for which there is a readily determinable market value, are recorded at fair value, with gains and losses recorded through net earnings. Equity investments without readily determinable fair values are measured at cost, less impairments, plus or minus observable price changes. Equity investments are included as Other noncurrent assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
In addition to equity investments, we have historically held other investment securities, primarily consisting of readily marketable debt securities. Unrealized gains or losses from debt securities classified as trading, if any, are charged to earnings. Unrealized gains on debt securities classified as available-for-sale are recorded in OCI. Unrealized losses on available-for-sale debt securities are charged to either earnings or OCI depending on our intent and ability to retain the security until we recover the full cost basis and the extent of the loss attributable to the creditworthiness of the issuer. Debt securities are included as Prepaid expenses and other current assets and Other noncurrent assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The Company also holds highly-liquid investments, including treasury bills, commercial paper, U.S. and foreign
government securities and money market funds with original maturity dates of three months or less. Such investments are considered cash equivalents and are included within Cash and cash equivalents in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.