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Document and Entity Information
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3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
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Mar. 31, 2012
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Apr. 24, 2012
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| Document And Entity Information [Abstract] | ||
| Document Type | 10-Q | |
| Amendment Flag | false | |
| Document Period End Date | Mar. 31, 2012 | |
| Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2012 | |
| Document Fiscal Period Focus | Q1 | |
| Entity Registrant Name | AMERICAN TOWER CORP /MA/ | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001053507 | |
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | |
| Entity Filer Category | Large Accelerated Filer | |
| Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 394,585,322 |
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- Details
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- Definition
If the value is true, then the document as an amendment to previously-filed/accepted document. No definition available.
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- Definition
End date of current fiscal year in the format --MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal period of the document report. For a first quarter 2006 quarterly report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, the first fiscal quarter should be given as the fiscal period focus. Values: FY, Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, H1, H2, M9, T1, T2, T3, M8, CY. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal year of the document report in CCYY format. For a 2006 annual report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, fiscal 2006 should be given as the fiscal year focus. Example: 2006. No definition available.
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- Definition
The end date of the period reflected on the cover page if a periodic report. For all other reports and registration statements containing historical data, it is the date up through which that historical data is presented. If there is no historical data in the report, use the filing date. The format of the date is CCYY-MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
The type of document being provided (such as 10-K, 10-Q, N-1A, etc). The document type is limited to the same value as the supporting SEC submission type, minus any "/A" suffix. The acceptable values are as follows: S-1, S-3, S-4, S-11, F-1, F-3, F-4, F-9, F-10, 6-K, 8-K, 10, 10-K, 10-Q, 20-F, 40-F, N-1A, 485BPOS, 497, NCSR, N-CSR, N-CSRS, N-Q, 10-KT, 10-QT, 20-FT, POS AM and Other. No definition available.
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- Definition
A unique 10-digit SEC-issued value to identify entities that have filed disclosures with the SEC. It is commonly abbreviated as CIK. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Indicate number of shares outstanding of each of registrant's classes of common stock, as of latest practicable date. Where multiple classes exist define each class by adding class of stock items such as Common Class A [Member], Common Class B [Member] onto the Instrument [Domain] of the Entity Listings, Instrument No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate whether the registrant is one of the following: (1) Large Accelerated Filer, (2) Accelerated Filer, (3) Non-accelerated Filer, or (4) Smaller Reporting Company. Definitions of these categories are stated in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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- Definition
The exact name of the entity filing the report as specified in its charter, which is required by forms filed with the SEC. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount due from customers or clients, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer), for goods or services (including trade receivables) that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, reduced to the estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of collection. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered. Examples include taxes, interest, rent and utilities. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end. Excludes Net Income (Loss), and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities, other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses related to factors other than credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that an entity does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis, as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Excess of issue price over par or stated value of the entity's capital stock and amounts received from other transactions involving the entity's stock or stockholders. Includes adjustments to additional paid in capital. Some examples of such adjustments include recording the issuance of debt with a beneficial conversion feature and certain tax consequences of equity instruments awarded to employees. Use this element for the aggregate amount of additional paid-in capital associated with common and preferred stock. For additional paid-in capital associated with only common stock, use the element additional paid in capital, common stock. For additional paid-in capital associated with only preferred stock, use the element additional paid in capital, preferred stock. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The carrying amount of a liability for an asset retirement obligation. An asset retirement obligation is a legal obligation associated with the disposal or retirement of a tangible long-lived asset that results from the acquisition, construction or development, or the normal operations of a long-lived asset, except for certain obligations of lessees. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold, or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Represents the caption on the face of the balance sheet to indicate that the entity has entered into (1) purchase or supply arrangements that will require expending a portion of its resources to meet the terms thereof, and (2) is exposed to potential losses or, less frequently, gains, arising from (a) possible claims against a company's resources due to future performance under contract terms, and (b) possible losses or likely gains from uncertainties that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events that are deemed likely to occur do occur or fail to occur. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate par or stated value of issued nonredeemable common stock (or common stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer). This item includes treasury stock repurchased by the entity. Note: elements for number of nonredeemable common shares, par value and other disclosure concepts are in another section within stockholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
For a classified balance sheet, the cumulative difference between the rental income or payments required by a lease agreement and the rental income or expense recognized on a straight-line basis, or other systematic and rational basis more representative of the time pattern in which use or benefit is granted or derived from the leased property, expected to be recognized in income or expense, by the lessor or lessee, respectively, more than one year after the balance sheet date. Such receivable is reduced by allowances attributable to, for instance, credit risk associated with a lessee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The carrying amount of consideration received or receivable as of the balance sheet date on potential earnings that were not recognized as revenue in conformity with GAAP, and which are expected to be recognized as such within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, including sales, license fees, and royalties, but excluding interest income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The current portion of the aggregate tax effects as of the balance sheet date of all future tax deductions arising from temporary differences between tax basis and generally accepted accounting principles basis recognition of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when permitted under enacted tax laws; after deducting the allocated valuation allowance, if any, to reduce such amount to net realizable value. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, are classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. An unrecognized tax benefit that is directly related to a position taken in a tax year that results in a net operating loss carryforward is presented as a reduction of the related deferred tax asset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The noncurrent portion as of the balance sheet date of the aggregate carrying amount of all future tax deductions arising from temporary differences between tax basis and generally accepted accounting principles basis recognition of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when permitted under enacted tax laws; after the valuation allowance, if any, to reduce such amount to net realizable value. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, is classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of dividends declared but unpaid on equity securities issued by the entity and outstanding. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, which is the cumulative amount paid and (if applicable) the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, adjusted for any amortization recognized prior to the adoption of any changes in generally accepted accounting principles (as applicable) and for any impairment charges, in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in one or more business combination transactions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, net of accumulated amortization and impairment charges. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of [accrued] interest payable on all forms of debt, including trade payables, that has been incurred and is unpaid. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all liabilities that are recognized. Liabilities are probable future sacrifices of economic benefits arising from present obligations of an entity to transfer assets or provide services to other entities in the future. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total of all Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity items (or Partners' Capital, as applicable), including the portion of equity attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all long-term debt, which is debt initially having maturities due after one year from the balance sheet date or beyond the operating cycle, if longer, but excluding the portions thereof scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer plus capital lease obligations due to be paid more than one year after the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total of the portions of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of long-term debt, which may include notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans, and commercial paper, which are scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which is directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate par or stated value of issued nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer). This item includes treasury stock repurchased by the entity. Note: elements for number of nonredeemable preferred shares, par value and other disclosure concepts are in another section within stockholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The total of the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and the aggregate carrying amount of current assets, as of the balance sheet date, not separately presented elsewhere in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tangible assets that are held by an entity for use in the production or supply of goods and services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes and that are expected to provide economic benefit for more than one year; net of accumulated depreciation. Examples include land, buildings, machinery and equipment, and other types of furniture and equipment including, but not limited to, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment and software. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against short-term borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or entity statements of intention with regard to particular deposits; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not generally included in legally restricted deposits. Excludes compensating balance arrangements that are not agreements which legally restrict the use of cash amounts shown on the balance sheet. For a classified balance sheet represents the current portion only (the noncurrent portion has a separate concept); there is a separate and distinct element for unclassified presentations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The cumulative amount of the reporting entity's undistributed earnings or deficit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Investments which are intended to be sold in the short term (usually less than one year or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) including trading securities, available-for-sale securities, held-to-maturity securities, and other short-term investments not otherwise listed in the existing taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Total of Stockholders' Equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity including portions attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interest), if any. The entity including portions attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interests is sometimes referred to as the economic entity. This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The amount allocated to treasury stock. Treasury stock is common and preferred shares of an entity that were issued, repurchased by the entity, and are held in its treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)
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Mar. 31, 2012
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||
| Preferred stock, par value | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 |
| Preferred stock, shares authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 |
| Preferred stock, shares issued | 0 | 0 |
| Preferred stock, shares outstanding | 0 | 0 |
| Common stock, par value | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 |
| Common stock, shares authorized | 1,000,000,000 | 1,000,000,000 |
| Common stock, shares issued | 394,677,281 | 393,642,079 |
| Common stock, shares outstanding | 394,598,281 | 393,642,079 |
| Treasury stock, shares | 79,000 | 0 |
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- Definition
Face amount or stated value of common stock per share; generally not indicative of the fair market value per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The maximum number of common shares permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total number of common shares of an entity that have been sold or granted to shareholders (includes common shares that were issued, repurchased and remain in the treasury). These shares represent capital invested by the firm's shareholders and owners, and may be all or only a portion of the number of shares authorized. Shares issued include shares outstanding and shares held in the treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total number of shares of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares represent the ownership interest of the common shareholders. Shares outstanding equals shares issued minus shares held in treasury and other adjustments, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Face amount or stated value per share of nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer); generally not indicative of the fair market value per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The maximum number of nonredeemable preferred shares (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total number of nonredeemable preferred shares (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) issued to shareholders (includes related preferred shares that were issued, repurchased, and remain in the treasury). May be all or portion of the number of preferred shares authorized. Excludes preferred shares that are classified as debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Aggregate share number for all nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) held by stockholders. Does not include preferred shares that have been repurchased. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Number of common and preferred shares that were previously issued and that were repurchased by the issuing entity and held in treasury on the financial statement date. This stock has no voting rights and receives no dividends. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
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Mar. 31, 2012
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Mar. 31, 2011
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|
| REVENUES: | ||
| Rental and management | $ 683,990 | $ 546,655 |
| Network development services | 12,527 | 16,040 |
| Total operating revenues | 696,517 | 562,695 |
| OPERATING EXPENSES: | ||
| Rental and management (including stock-based compensation expense of $197 and $0, respectively) | 163,724 | 127,859 |
| Network development services (including stock-based compensation expense of $264 and $0, respectively) | 7,261 | 7,469 |
| Depreciation, amortization and accretion | 149,655 | 131,231 |
| Selling, general, administrative and development expense (including stock-based compensation expense of $12,584 and $12,358, respectively) | 79,584 | 66,132 |
| Other operating expenses | 21,847 | 11,704 |
| Total operating expenses | 422,071 | 344,395 |
| OPERATING INCOME | 274,446 | 218,300 |
| OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||
| Interest income, TV Azteca, net of interest expense of $371 and $372, restpectively | 3,543 | 3,499 |
| Interest income | 2,253 | 2,304 |
| Interest expense | (95,117) | (74,427) |
| Loss on retirement of long-term obligations | (398) | 0 |
| Other income (including unrealized foreign currency gains of $55,838 and $16,178, respectively) | 52,861 | 13,707 |
| Total other expense | (36,858) | (54,917) |
| INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND INCOME ON EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS | 237,588 | 163,383 |
| Income tax provision | (27,248) | (71,423) |
| Income on equity method investments | 18 | 1 |
| NET INCOME | 210,358 | 91,961 |
| Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interest | 10,948 | (119) |
| NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO AMERICAN TOWER CORPORATION | $ 221,306 | $ 91,842 |
| NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE AMOUNTS: | ||
| Basic net income attributable to American Tower Corporation | $ 0.56 | $ 0.23 |
| Diluted net income attributable to American Tower Corporation | $ 0.56 | $ 0.23 |
| WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING: | ||
| Basic | 393,885 | 397,768 |
| Diluted | 398,453 | 401,899 |
| DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED, PER SHARE | $ 0.21 | $ 0 |
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- Definition
Net Interest Income TV Azteca No definition available.
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- Definition
Aggregate dividends declared during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total costs related to services rendered by an entity during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total costs of sales and operating expenses for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
The aggregate net amount of depreciation, amortization, and accretion recognized during an accounting period. As a noncash item, the net amount is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Costs incurred and are directly related to generating revenues from leased and rented property or equipment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount represents the difference between the fair value of the payments made and the carrying amount of the debt at the time of its extinguishment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income or expense before Income or Loss from equity method investments, income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of the current income tax expense or benefit and the deferred income tax expense or benefit pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Income derived from investments in debt securities and on cash and cash equivalents the earnings of which reflect the time value of money or transactions in which the payments are for the use or forbearance of money. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of net Income or Loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest (if any) deducted in order to derive the portion attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of income or expense from ancillary business-related activities (that is to say, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of revenue recognized for the period from operating leases, including minimum lease revenue, contingent revenue, percentage revenue and sublease revenue. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of other operating cost and expense items that are associated with the entity's normal revenue producing operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total revenue from sale of goods and services rendered during the reporting period, in the normal course of business, reduced by sales returns and allowances, and sales discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate revenue during the period from services rendered in the normal course of business, after deducting allowances and discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate total costs related to selling a firm's product and services, as well as all other general and administrative expenses. Direct selling expenses (for example, credit, warranty, and advertising) are expenses that can be directly linked to the sale of specific products. Indirect selling expenses are expenses that cannot be directly linked to the sale of specific products, for example telephone expenses, Internet, and postal charges. General and administrative expenses include salaries of non-sales personnel, rent, utilities, communication, etc. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| Stock-based compensation expense | $ 13,045 | $ 12,358 |
| Interest expense, TV Azteca | 371 | 372 |
| Unrealized foreign currency gains | 55,838 | 16,178 |
|
Rental And Management [Member]
|
||
| Stock-based compensation expense | 197 | 0 |
|
Network Development Services [Member]
|
||
| Stock-based compensation expense | 264 | 0 |
|
Selling General Administrative And Development Expense [Member]
|
||
| Stock-based compensation expense | $ 12,584 | $ 12,358 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Interest expense related to TV Azteca No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate unrealized foreign currency transaction gain (loss) (pretax) included in determining net income for the reporting period. Represents the aggregate of gains (losses) on transactions that are unsettled as of the balance sheet date, which is therefore an adjustment to reconcile income (loss) from continuing operations to net cash provided by or used in continuing operations. Excludes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting entity's financial statements. For certain entities, primarily banks, that are dealers in foreign exchange, foreign currency transaction gains (losses) may be disclosed as dealer gains (losses). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| Other comprehensive (loss) income | ||
| Net change in fair value of cash flow hedges, net of tax | $ (383) | $ 1,977 |
| Reclassification of unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges to net income, net of tax | 48 | 136 |
| Net unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities, net of tax | 0 | (60) |
| Reclassification of unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities to net income | 495 | 0 |
| Foreign currency translation adjustment | 36,909 | 14,310 |
| Other comprehensive income | 37,069 | 16,363 |
| Comprehensive income | 247,427 | 108,324 |
| Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interest | 18,814 | (119) |
| Comprehensive income attributable to American Tower Corporation | 266,241 | 108,205 |
| Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||
| Net income | $ 210,358 | $ 91,961 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the reporting entity. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, but excludes any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the economic entity, including both controlling (parent) and noncontrolling interests. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, including any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency of the reporting entity, net of tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents Other Comprehensive Income or Loss, Net of Tax, for the period. Includes deferred gains or losses on qualifying hedges, unrealized holding gains or losses on available-for-sale securities, minimum pension liability, and cumulative translation adjustment. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reclassification adjustment for unrealized gains or losses realized upon the write-down of securities, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Net of tax effect of the reclassification adjustment for accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges included in accumulated comprehensive income that was realized in net income during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. The after tax effect change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Appreciation or loss in value (before reclassification adjustment) of the total of unsold securities during the period being reported on, net of tax. Reclassification adjustments include: (1) the unrealized holding gain (loss), net of tax, at the date of the transfer for a debt security from the held-to-maturity category transferred into the available-for-sale category. Also includes the unrealized gain (loss) at the date of transfer for a debt security from the available-for-sale category transferred into the held-to-maturity category; (2) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the sale of securities, after tax; and (3) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the write-down of securities, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||
| Net income | $ 210,358 | $ 91,961 |
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities: | ||
| Stock-based compensation expense | 13,045 | 12,358 |
| Depreciation, amortization and accretion | 149,655 | 131,231 |
| Other non-cash items reflected in statements of operations | (28,342) | 53,335 |
| Increase in net deferred rent asset | (28,789) | (22,704) |
| Increase in restricted cash | (13,490) | (7,444) |
| Decrease (increase) in assets | 55,126 | (13,486) |
| Increase in liabilities | 44,454 | 38,565 |
| Cash provided by operating activities | 402,017 | 283,816 |
| CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||
| Payments for purchase of property and equipment and construction activities | (121,032) | (97,901) |
| Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired | (159,403) | (617,348) |
| Proceeds from sales of short-term investments, available-for-sale securities and other long-term assets | 1,095 | 49,189 |
| Payments for short-term investments | (10,085) | (12,037) |
| Deposits, restricted cash and other | (1,871) | 3,567 |
| Cash used for investing activities | (291,296) | (674,530) |
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||
| Proceeds from short-term borrowings | 17,127 | 101,129 |
| Borrowings under credit facilities | 1,325,000 | 0 |
| Proceeds from issuance of senior notes | 698,670 | 0 |
| Proceeds from other long-term borrowings | 16,676 | 0 |
| Repayments of notes payable, credit facilities and capital leases | (2,018,847) | (126,669) |
| Net contributions from noncontrolling interest holders | 3,327 | 6,589 |
| Purchases of common stock | (20,665) | (127,723) |
| Proceeds from stock options | 15,615 | 10,173 |
| Deferred financing costs and other financing activities | (9,463) | (1,025) |
| Cash provided by (used for) financing activities | 27,440 | (137,526) |
| Net effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents | 2,906 | 7,100 |
| NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS | 141,067 | (521,140) |
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR | 330,191 | 883,963 |
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR | 471,258 | 362,823 |
| NET CASH (RECEIVED) PAID FOR INCOME TAXES | (897) | 13,477 |
| CASH PAID FOR INTEREST | 77,936 | 50,806 |
| NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||
| DECREASE IN ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED EXPENSES FOR PURCHAASES OF PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES | 7,813 | 8,915 |
| PURCHASE OF PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT UNDER CAPITAL LEASES | $ 1,066 | $ 555 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Increase (Decrease) in deferred rent asset net of deferred rent liabilities No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow associated with the sale of debt and equity securities classified as available-for-sale securities. Also includes the cash inflow from the sale of other tangible or intangible assets used to produce goods or deliver services not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of adjustments to net income or loss necessary to remove the effects of all items whose cash effects are investing or financing cash flows. The aggregate amount also includes all noncash expenses and income items which reduce or increase net income and are thus added back or deducted when calculating cash provided by or used in operating activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Future cash outflow to pay for purchases of fixed assets that have occurred. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase during the period in capital lease obligations due to entering into new capital leases. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in cash and cash equivalents. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate net amount of depreciation, amortization, and accretion recognized during an accounting period. As a noncash item, the net amount is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effect of exchange rate changes on cash balances held in foreign currencies. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of cash paid during the current period to foreign, federal, state, and local authorities as taxes on income, net of any cash received during the current period as refunds for the overpayment of taxes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of assets used to generate operating income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of liabilities that result from activities that generate operating income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow for the increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use (such as funds held in escrow) and are associated with underlying transactions that are classified as operating activities. This may include cash restricted for regulatory purposes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of cash paid for interest during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from financing activity for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from investing activity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash from (used in) all of the entity's operating activities, including those of discontinued operations, of the reporting entity. Operating activities generally involve producing and delivering goods and providing services. Operating activity cash flows include transactions, adjustments, and changes in value that are not defined as investing or financing activities. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash outflow or inflow from other investing activities. This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow to reacquire common stock during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of a business, net of the cash acquired from the purchase. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow for purchases of and capital improvements on property, plant and equipment (capital expenditures), software, and other intangible assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow for securities or other assets acquired, which qualify for treatment as an investing activity and are to be liquidated, if necessary, within the current operating cycle. Includes cash flows from securities classified as trading securities that were acquired for reasons other than sale in the short-term. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow from other long-term borrowings not otherwise defined in the taxonomy (with maturities initially due beyond one year or the normal operating cycle of the entity, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow from a borrowing with the highest claim on the assets of the entity in case of bankruptcy or liquidation (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow from the issuance of common stock, preferred stock, treasury stock, stock options, and other types of equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow from a contractual arrangement with the lender, including letter of credit, standby letter of credit and revolving credit arrangements, under which borrowings can be made up to a specific amount at any point in time with either short term or long term maturity that is collateralized (backed by pledge, mortgage or other lien in the entity's assets). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow from a borrowing not otherwise defined in the taxonomy having initial term of repayment within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from other financing activities. This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from noncontrolled interest to increase or decrease the number of shares they have in the entity. This does not include dividends paid to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with security instruments that either represent a creditor or an ownership relationship with the holder of the investment security with a maturity of beyond one year or normal operating cycle, if longer. Includes repayments of (a) debt, (b) capital lease obligations, (c) mandatory redeemable capital securities, and (d) any combination of (a), (b), or (c). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EQUITY (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data |
Total
|
Common Stock
|
Treasury Stock
|
Additional Paid-in Capital
|
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
|
Earnings (Distributions) in Excess of Distributions (Earnings)
|
Noncontrolling Interest
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BALANCE at Dec. 31, 2010 | $ 3,504,558 | $ 4,860 | $ (3,381,966) | $ 8,577,093 | $ 38,053 | $ (1,736,596) | $ 3,114 |
| BALANCE (shares) at Dec. 31, 2010 | 486,056,952 | (87,379,718) | |||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity (shares) | 778,611 | ||||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity | 12,284 | 8 | 12,276 | ||||
| Treasury stock activity (shares) | (2,389,747) | ||||||
| Treasury stock activity | (122,739) | (122,739) | |||||
| Net change in fair value of cash flow hedges, net of tax | (1,977) | (1,977) | |||||
| Reclassification of unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges to net income, net of tax | 136 | 136 | |||||
| Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax | 60 | 60 | |||||
| Reclassification of unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities to net income | 0 | ||||||
| Foreign currency translation adjustment | 14,310 | 14,310 | |||||
| Contributions from noncontrolling interest | 6,723 | 6,723 | |||||
| Distributions to noncontrolling interest | (134) | (134) | |||||
| Net income (loss) | 91,961 | 91,842 | 119 | ||||
| BALANCE at Mar. 31, 2011 | 3,509,016 | 4,868 | (3,504,705) | 8,589,369 | 54,416 | (1,644,754) | 9,822 |
| BALANCE (shares) at Mar. 31, 2011 | 486,835,563 | (89,769,465) | |||||
| BALANCE at Dec. 31, 2011 | 3,410,142 | 3,936 | 0 | 4,903,800 | (142,617) | (1,477,899) | 122,922 |
| BALANCE (shares) at Dec. 31, 2011 | 393,642,079 | 0 | |||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity (shares) | 1,035,202 | ||||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity | 13,465 | 10 | 13,455 | ||||
| Treasury stock activity (shares) | (79,000) | (79,000) | |||||
| Treasury stock activity | (4,924) | (4,924) | |||||
| Net change in fair value of cash flow hedges, net of tax | 383 | 287 | 96 | ||||
| Reclassification of unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges to net income, net of tax | 48 | 48 | |||||
| Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax | 0 | ||||||
| Reclassification of unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities to net income | 495 | 495 | |||||
| Foreign currency translation adjustment | 36,909 | 44,679 | (7,770) | ||||
| Contributions from noncontrolling interest | 3,504 | 3,504 | |||||
| Distributions to noncontrolling interest | (177) | (177) | |||||
| Dividends/distribuitons declared | (83,034) | (83,034) | |||||
| Net income (loss) | 210,358 | 221,306 | (10,948) | ||||
| BALANCE at Mar. 31, 2012 | $ 3,586,403 | $ 3,946 | $ (4,924) | $ 4,917,255 | $ (97,682) | $ (1,339,627) | $ 107,435 |
| BALANCE (shares) at Mar. 31, 2012 | 394,677,281 | (79,000) |
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Equity impact of aggregate cash, stock, and paid-in-kind dividends declared for all securities (common shares, preferred shares, etc.) during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Decrease in noncontrolling interest balance from payment of dividends or other distributions by the non-wholly owned subsidiary or partially owned entity, included in the consolidation of the parent entity, to the noncontrolling interest holders. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Increase in noncontrolling interest balance because of a business combination that occurred during the period. No definition available.
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Adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency of the reporting entity, net of tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reclassification adjustment for unrealized gains or losses realized upon the write-down of securities, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Net of tax effect of the reclassification adjustment for accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges included in accumulated comprehensive income that was realized in net income during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. The after tax effect change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Appreciation or loss in value (before reclassification adjustment) of the total of unsold securities during the period being reported on, net of tax. Reclassification adjustments include: (1) the unrealized holding gain (loss), net of tax, at the date of the transfer for a debt security from the held-to-maturity category transferred into the available-for-sale category. Also includes the unrealized gain (loss) at the date of transfer for a debt security from the available-for-sale category transferred into the held-to-maturity category; (2) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the sale of securities, after tax; and (3) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the write-down of securities, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Number of shares of stock issued as of the balance sheet date, including shares that had been issued and were previously outstanding but which are now held in the treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Total of Stockholders' Equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity including portions attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interest), if any. The entity including portions attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interests is sometimes referred to as the economic entity. This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Number of shares (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), net of any shares forfeited. Shares issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Value of stock (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), net of stock value of such awards forfeited. Stock issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Number of shares that have been repurchased during the period and are being held in treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Equity impact of the cost of common and preferred stock that were repurchased during the period. Recorded using the cost method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Description of Business, Basis of Presentation and Accounting Policies
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3 Months Ended |
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Mar. 31, 2012
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| Description Of Business And Basis Of Presentation Disclosure [Abstract] | |
| Description of Business, Basis of Presentation and Accounting Policies | 1. Description of Business, Basis of Presentation and Accounting Policies American Tower Corporation is, through its various subsidiaries (collectively, “ATC” or the “Company”), an independent owner, operator and developer of wireless and broadcast communications sites in the United States, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ghana, India, Mexico, Peru and South Africa. The Company began operating as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) for federal income tax purposes effective January 1, 2012. The Company's primary business is the leasing of antenna space on multi-tenant communications sites to wireless service providers, radio and television broadcast companies, wireless data providers, government agencies and municipalities and tenants in a number of other industries. The Company also manages rooftop and tower sites for property owners, operates in-building and outdoor distributed antenna system (“DAS”) networks, holds property interests under communications sites and provides network development services that primarily support its rental and management operations and the addition of new tenants and equipment on its sites. ATC is a holding company that conducts its operations through its directly and indirectly owned subsidiaries and its joint ventures. ATC's principal domestic operating subsidiaries are American Towers LLC and SpectraSite Communications, LLC. ATC conducts its international operations through its subsidiary, American Tower International, Inc., which in turn conducts operations through its various international operating subsidiaries and joint ventures. The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by the Company pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The financial information included herein is unaudited; however, the Company believes that all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation of the Company's financial position and results of operations for such periods have been included. Results of interim periods may not be indicative of results for the full year. Subsequent events have been evaluated up to the date of issuance of these financial statements. These condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.
REIT Conversion—In May 2011, the Company announced its intention to reorganize to qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes (the “REIT Conversion”). As part of the REIT Conversion, effective December 31, 2011, the Company completed the merger with its predecessor that was approved by the Company's stockholders in November 2011. At the time of the merger all outstanding shares of Class A common stock of ATC were converted into a right to receive an equal number of shares of common stock of the surviving corporation. In addition, each share of Class A common stock of ATC held in treasury at December 31, 2011 ceased to be outstanding, and a corresponding adjustment was recorded to additional paid-in capital and common stock.
The Company began operating as a REIT for the taxable year commencing January 1, 2012. The Company believes that as of that date it has been organized and has operated in a manner that enables it to qualify, and intends to continue to operate in a manner that will allow it to continue to qualify, as a REIT for federal income tax purposes.
The Company holds and operates certain of its assets through one or more taxable REIT subsidiaries (“TRSs”). A TRS is a subsidiary of a REIT that is subject to applicable corporate income tax. The Company's use of TRSs enables it to continue to engage in certain businesses while complying with REIT qualification requirements and also allows the Company to retain income generated by these businesses for reinvestment without the requirement of distributing those earnings. The non-REIT qualified businesses that the Company holds through TRSs include its network development services segment. In addition, the Company has included its international operations and DAS networks business within its TRSs. In the future, the Company may elect to reorganize and transfer certain assets or operations, such as its international operations, from its TRSs to other subsidiaries, including qualified REIT subsidiaries or other REIT disregarded entities (“QRSs”).
As a REIT, the Company generally will not be subject to federal income taxes on its income and gains that the Company distributes to its stockholders, including the income derived from leasing towers. However, even as a REIT, the Company will remain obligated to pay income taxes on earnings from all of its TRS assets. In addition, the Company's international assets and operations continue to be subject to taxation in the foreign jurisdictions where those assets are held or those operations are conducted.
Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation—The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and those entities in which it has a controlling interest. Investments in entities that the Company does not control are accounted for using the equity or cost method, depending upon the Company's ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Significant Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimates, and such differences could be material to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. The Company considers events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued as additional evidence for certain estimates or to identify matters that require additional disclosure. Recently Adopted Accounting Standards—In May 2011, the FASB amended its guidance related to fair value measurement and disclosure. This guidance clarifies existing measurement and disclosure requirements and results in greater consistency between GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards. This guidance became effective prospectively for interim and annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2011. The implementation of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company's condensed consolidated results of operations or financial position. In September 2011, the FASB issued guidance on testing goodwill for impairment that became effective for the interim and annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2011 (with early adoption permitted). Under the new guidance, an entity has the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. If the entity determines that it is more likely than not that the carrying value of a reporting unit is less than its fair value, then performing the two-step impairment test is unnecessary. The implementation of this guidance did not have an impact on the Company's condensed consolidated results of operations or financial position. |
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The entire disclosure for the organization, consolidation and basis of presentation of financial statements disclosure, and significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. May be provided in more than one note to the financial statements, as long as users are provided with an understanding of (1) the significant judgments and assumptions made by an enterprise in determining whether it must consolidate a VIE and/or disclose information about its involvement with a VIE, (2) the nature of restrictions on a consolidated VIE's assets reported by an enterprise in its statement of financial position, including the carrying amounts of such assets, (3) the nature of, and changes in, the risks associated with an enterprise's involvement with the VIE, and (4) how an enterprise's involvement with the VIE affects the enterprise's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. Describes procedure if disclosures are provided in more than one note to the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Short-Term Investments and Available-For-Sale Securities
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3 Months Ended |
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Mar. 31, 2012
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| Short-term Investments [Abstract] | |
| Short-Term Investments and Available-For-Sale Securities | 2. Short-Term Investments and Available-For-Sale Securities As of March 31, 2012, short-term investments included investments with original maturities of three months or more of $32.8 million. As of December 31, 2011, short-term investments included investments with original maturities of three months or more of $22.3 million and available-for-sale securities of less than $0.1 million. |
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Tabular disclosure of investments in certain debt and equity securities (and certain other trading assets) which include all debt and equity securities (other than those equity securities accounted for under the equity or cost methods of accounting) with readily determinable fair values. Other trading assets include assets that are carried on the balance sheet at fair value and held for trading purposes. A debt security represents a creditor relationship with an enterprise that is in the form of a security. Debt securities include, among other items, US Treasury securities, US government securities, municipal securities, corporate bonds, convertible debt, commercial paper, and all securitized debt instruments. An equity security represents an ownership interest in an enterprise or the right to acquire or dispose of an ownership interest in an enterprise at fixed or determinable prices. Equity securities include, among other things, common stock, certain preferred stock, warrant rights, call options, and put options, but do not include convertible debt. An entity may opt to provide the reader with additional narrative text to better understand the nature of investments in debt and equity securities (and other trading assets). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Prepaid and Other Current Assets
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| Prepaid Expense And Other Current Assets [Text Block] | 3. Prepaid and Other Current Assets
Prepaid and other current assets consist of the following (in thousands):
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Prepaid and Other Current Assets No definition available.
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Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
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| Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | 4. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets The changes in the carrying value of goodwill for the Company's business segments were as follows:
The acquired network location intangibles represent the value to the Company of the incremental revenue growth which could potentially be obtained from leasing the excess capacity on acquired communications sites. The acquired customer-related intangibles typically represent the value to the Company of customer contracts and relationships in place at the time of an acquisition, including assumptions regarding estimated renewals. The acquired licenses and other intangibles consist primarily of non-competition agreements acquired from SpectraSite, Inc., and in other tower acquisitions. The Company amortizes these intangibles on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives. As of March 31, 2012, the remaining weighted average amortization period of the Company's intangible assets, excluding the TV Azteca Economic Rights detailed in note 5 to the Company's consolidated financial statements included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, was approximately 12 years. Amortization of intangible assets for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011 was approximately $51.8 million and $42.9 million (excluding amortization of deferred financing costs, which is included in interest expense), respectively. Based on the current estimated useful lives, the Company expects to record amortization expense (excluding amortization of deferred financing costs) as follows over the next five years (in thousands):
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The entire disclosure for the aggregate amount of goodwill and a description of intangible assets, which may include (a) for amortizable intangible assets (also referred to as finite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, the amount of any significant residual value, and the weighted-average amortization period, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization (also referred to as indefinite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, and (c) the amount of research and development assets acquired and written off in the period, including the line item in the income statement in which the amounts written off are aggregated, if not readily apparent from the income statement. Also discloses (a) for amortizable intangibles assets in total and by major class, the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization, the total amortization expense for the period, and the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization the carrying amount in total and by major class, and (c) for goodwill, in total and for each reportable segment, the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the period (including the aggregate amount of goodwill acquired, the aggregate amount of impairment losses recognized, and the amount of goodwill included in the gain (loss) on disposal of a reporting unit). If any part of goodwill has not been allocated to a reportable segment, discloses the unallocated amount and the reasons for not allocating. For each impairment loss recognized related to an intangible asset (excluding goodwill), discloses: (a) a description of the impaired intangible asset and the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method for determining fair value, (c) the caption in the income statement or the statement of activities in which the impairment loss is aggregated, and (d) the segment in which the impaired intangible asset is reported. For each goodwill impairment loss recognized, discloses: (a) a description of the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method of determining the fair value of the associated reporting unit, and (c) if a recognized impairment loss is an estimate not finalized and the reasons why the estimate is not final. May also disclose the nature and amount of any significant adjustments made to a previous estimate of an impairment loss. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Financing Transactions
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3 Months Ended |
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Mar. 31, 2012
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| Securities Financing Transactions [Abstract] | |
| Financing Transactions | 5. Financing Transactions
Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan—On January 31, 2012, the Company repaid and terminated its $1.25 billion senior unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) and repaid $325.0 million of related term loan commitments (the “Term Loan”), with proceeds from a $1.0 billion unsecured revolving credit facility entered into on April 8, 2011 (the “2011 Credit Facility”) and a new $1.0 billion unsecured revolving credit facility entered into on January 31, 2012 (the “2012 Credit Facility”).
2011 Credit Facility—As of March 31, 2012, the Company did not have any amounts outstanding under the 2011 Credit Facility. The Company continues to maintain the ability to draw down and repay amounts under the 2011 Credit Facility in the ordinary course. The 2011 Credit Facility has a term of five years and matures on April 8, 2016.
2012 Credit Facility—On January 31, 2012, the Company entered into the 2012 Credit Facility, which has a term of five years and matures on January 31, 2017. Any outstanding principal and accrued but unpaid interest will be due and payable in full at maturity. The 2012 Credit Facility may be paid prior to maturity in whole or in part at the Company's option without penalty or premium. The Company has the option of choosing either a defined base rate or the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) rate as the applicable base rate for borrowings under the 2012 Credit Facility. The interest rate ranges between 1.075% to 2.400% above the LIBOR rate for LIBOR based borrowings or between 0.075% to 1.400% above the defined base rate for base rate borrowings, in each case based upon the Company's debt ratings. A quarterly commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the 2012 Credit Facility is required, ranging from 0.125% to 0.450% per annum, based upon the Company's debt ratings. The current margin over LIBOR that the Company would incur on borrowings is 1.625%, and the current commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the 2012 Credit Facility is 0.225%. The loan agreement contains certain reporting, information, financial and operating covenants and other restrictions (including limitations on additional debt, guaranties, sales of assets and liens) with which the Company must comply. Any failure to comply with the financial and operating covenants of the loan agreement would not only prevent the Company from being able to borrow additional funds, but would constitute a default, which could result in, among other things, the amounts outstanding, including all accrued interest and unpaid fees, becoming immediately due and payable. As of March 31, 2012, the Company had $632.0 million outstanding under the 2012 Credit Facility and had $2.7 million of undrawn letters of credit. The Company will maintain the ability to draw down and repay amounts under the 2012 Credit Facility in the ordinary course.
Senior Notes Offering—On March 12, 2012, the Company completed a registered public offering of $700.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 4.70% senior notes due 2022 (the “4.70% Notes”). The net proceeds to the Company from the offering were approximately $693.0 million, after deducting commissions and expenses. The Company used the net proceeds to repay a portion of the outstanding indebtedness incurred under its 2011 Credit Facility and 2012 Credit Facility, which have been used to fund recent acquisitions. The 4.70% Notes mature on March 15, 2022, and interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing on September 15, 2012. The Company may redeem the 4.70% Notes at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus a make-whole premium, together with accrued interest to the redemption date. Interest on the notes will accrue from March 12, 2012 and will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months. If the Company undergoes a change of control and ratings decline, each as defined in supplemental indenture no. 5, dated March 12, 2012 (the “Supplemental Indenture”) to the base indenture dated May 13, 2010, as amended and supplemented on December 30, 2011, the Company will be required to offer to repurchase all of the 4.70% Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest up to but not including the repurchase date. The 4.70% Notes rank equally with all of the Company's other senior unsecured debt and are structurally subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness and other obligations of its subsidiaries. The Supplemental Indenture contains certain covenants that restrict the Company's ability to merge, consolidate or sell assets and its (together with its subsidiaries') ability to incur liens. These covenants are subject to a number of exceptions, including that the Company and its subsidiaries may incur certain liens on assets, mortgages or other liens securing indebtedness, if the aggregate amount of such liens does not exceed 3.5x Adjusted EBITDA, as defined in the Supplemental Indenture. Colombian Short-Term Credit Facility—The Company's 141.1 billion Colombian Peso-denominated short-term credit facility was executed on July 25, 2011 to refinance the credit facility entered into in connection with the purchase of the exclusive use rights for towers from Telefónica S.A.'s Colombian subsidiary, Colombia Telecomunicaciones S.A. E.S.P. As of March 31, 2012, 141.1 billion Colombian Pesos (approximately $78.9 million) were outstanding under this credit facility. As of March 31, 2012, this facility accrued interest at 7.65% and was initially scheduled to mature on April 25, 2012. In April 2012, prior to maturity, the maturity date of this credit facility was extended to July 25, 2012 and began accruing interest at 8.20%. Colombian Bridge Loans—In connection with the acquisition of communications sites from Colombia Movil S.A. E.S.P., a subsidiary of the Company entered into a 51.9 billion Colombian Peso-denominated bridge loan in December 2011. The loan accrued interest at 7.15% and was initially scheduled to mature on March 22, 2012. In March 2012, prior to maturity, the maturity date was extended to June 22, 2012 and began accruing interest at 8.20%. On February 22, 2012, this subsidiary borrowed an additional 30.7 billion Colombian Pesos under a new loan. The additional borrowing accrues interest at 7.95% and matures on May 22, 2012. As of March 31, 2012, the principal amounts outstanding under these loans were 82.6 billion Colombian Pesos (approximately $46.2 million). Colombian Loan—In connection with the establishment of the joint venture with Millicom International Cellular S.A. (“Millicom”) and the acquisition of communications sites in Colombia, ATC Colombia B.V., a 60% owned subsidiary of ATC, entered into a U.S. Dollar-denominated shareholder loan agreement (the “Colombian Loan”), as the borrower, with a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (the “ATC Colombian Subsidiary”), and a wholly owned subsidiary of Millicom (the “Millicom Subsidiary”), as the lenders. The Colombian Loan accrues interest at 8.30% and matures on February 22, 2022. The portion of the loans made by the ATC Colombian Subsidiary is eliminated in consolidation, and the portion of the loans made by the Millicom Subsidiary is reported as outstanding debt of ATC. As of March 31, 2012, an aggregate of $13.2 million was payable to the Millicom Subsidiary. South African Facility—The Company's 1.2 billion South African Rand (“ZAR”) credit facility (the “South African Facility”) was executed in November 2011 to refinance the bridge loan entered into in connection with the acquisition of communications sites from Cell C (Pty) Limited (“Cell C”). As of March 31, 2012, the South African Facility accrued interest at 9.35% and matures on March 31, 2020. As of March 31, 2012, 687.0 million ZAR (approximately $89.5 million) was outstanding under the South African Facility. Ghana Loan—In connection with the establishment of the Company's joint venture with MTN Group Limited (“MTN Group”) and the acquisitions of communications sites in Ghana, Ghana Tower Interco B.V., a 51% owned subsidiary of ATC, entered into a U.S. Dollar-denominated shareholder loan agreement (the “Ghana Loan”), as the borrower, with a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (the “ATC Ghana Subsidiary”), and Mobile Telephone Networks (Netherlands) B.V., a wholly owned subsidiary of MTN Group (the “MTN Subsidiary”), as the lenders. Pursuant to the terms of the Ghana Loan, loans were made to the joint venture in connection with the acquisition of communications sites from MTN Group's operating subsidiary in Ghana. The Ghana Loan accrues interest at 9.0% and matures on May 4, 2016. The portion of the loans made by the ATC Ghana Subsidiary is eliminated in consolidation, and the portion of the loans made by the MTN Subsidiary is reported as outstanding debt of American Tower. As of March 31, 2012, an aggregate of $131.0 million was payable to the MTN Subsidiary.
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The entire disclosure for information about short-term and long-term debt arrangements, which includes amounts of borrowings under each line of credit, note payable, commercial paper issue, bonds indenture, debenture issue, own-share lending arrangements and any other contractual agreement to repay funds, and about the underlying arrangements, rationale for a classification as long-term, including repayment terms, interest rates, collateral provided, restrictions on use of assets and activities, whether or not in compliance with debt covenants, and other matters important to users of the financial statements, such as the effects of refinancing and noncompliance with debt covenants. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Derivative Financial Instruments | 6. Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company is exposed to certain risks related to its ongoing business operations. The primary risk managed through the use of derivative instruments is interest rate risk. From time to time, the Company enters into interest rate protection agreements to manage exposure to variability in cash flows relating to forecasted interest payments. Under these agreements, the Company is exposed to credit risk to the extent that a counterparty fails to meet the terms of a contract. The Company's credit risk exposure is limited to the current value of the contract at the time the counterparty fails to perform.
If a derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portions of changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are recognized in the results of operations when the hedged item affects earnings. Ineffective portions of changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are recognized immediately in the results of operations. For derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments, changes in fair value are recognized in the results of operations in the period in which the change occurs. During the three months ended March 31, 2011, the Company held 12 LIBOR-based interest rate swap agreements to manage exposure to variability in cash flows relating to forecasted interest payments under its previous credit facilities. As of March 31, 2011, none of these agreements were outstanding.
On January 16, 2012, the Company entered into three interest rate swap agreements with an aggregate notional value of 350.0 million ZAR (approximately $45.6 million) all of which have been designated as cash flow hedges. The Company uses these interest rate swap agreements to manage its exposure to variability in interest rates on debt in South Africa that accrue interest based on the Johannesburg Interbank Agreed Rate (“JIBAR”). The interest rate swap agreements have fixed interest rates ranging from 7.21% to 7.25% and expire on March 31, 2020. As of March 31, 2012, the carrying amounts of the Company's derivative financial instruments, along with the estimated fair values of the related liabilities were as follows (in thousands):
During the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, the interest rate swap agreements held by the Company had the following impact on other comprehensive income (“OCI”) included in the condensed consolidated balance sheet and in the condensed consolidated statement of operations (in thousands):
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The entire disclosure for the entity's entire derivative instruments and hedging activities. Describes an entity's risk management strategies, derivatives in hedging activities and non-hedging derivative instruments, the assets, obligations, liabilities, revenues and expenses arising therefrom, and the amounts of and methodologies and assumptions used in determining the amounts of such items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Fair Value Measurements | 7. Fair Value Measurements The Company determines the fair market values of its financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. Below are the three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
Cash and cash equivalents include short-term investments, including money market funds, with original maturities of three months or less whose fair value equaled cost at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011. The fair value of the Company's interest rate swap agreements recorded as liabilities is included in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet. Fair valuations of the Company's interest rate swap agreements reflect the value of the instrument including the values associated with counterparty risk and the Company's own credit standing. The Company includes in the valuation of the derivative instrument the value of the net credit differential between the counterparties to the derivative contract. There were no interest rate swap agreements outstanding at December 31, 2011.
Acquisition-related contingent consideration is initially measured and recorded at fair value as an element of consideration paid in connection with an acquisition with subsequent adjustments recognized in other operating expenses in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. The Company determines the fair value of acquisition-related contingent consideration, and any subsequent changes in fair value using a discounted probability-weighted approach. This approach takes into consideration Level 3 unobservable inputs including probability assessments of expected future cash flows over the period in which the obligation is expected to be settled and applies a discount factor that captures the uncertainties associated with the obligation. Changes in these unobservable inputs could significantly impact the fair value of the liabilities recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet.
During the three months ended March 31, 2012, the fair value of the contingent consideration increased as a result of changes in fair value of $5.8 million and changes due to foreign currency translation of $1.4 million, partially offset by payments during the three months ended March 31, 2012 of $0.4 million. Items Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis—During the three months ended March 31, 2012, certain long-lived assets held and used with a carrying value of $288.8 million were written down to their net realizable value, resulting in an asset impairment charge of $10.7 million, which was recorded in other operating expenses in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations. These adjustments were determined by comparing the estimated proceeds from sale of assets or the projected future discounted cash flows to be provided from the long-lived assets (calculated using Level 3 inputs) to the asset's carrying value. Fair Value of Financial Instruments—The carrying value of the Company's financial instruments, with the exception of long-term obligations, including the current portion, reasonably approximate the related fair values as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011. The Company's estimates of fair value of its long-term obligations, including the current portion, are based primarily upon reported market values. For long-term debt not actively traded, fair values were estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis using rates for debt with similar terms and maturities. As of March 31, 2012, the carrying value and fair value of long-term obligations, including the current portion, were $7.3 billion and $7.7 billion, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, the carrying value and fair value of long-term obligations, including the current portion, were $7.2 billion and $7.5 billion, respectively. If the Company's debt were measured at fair value, it would be classified as Level 1 and Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. |
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The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Mar. 31, 2012
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| Income Taxes | 8. Income Taxes
The Company provides for income taxes at the end of each interim period based on the estimated effective tax rate for the full fiscal year. Cumulative adjustments to the Company's estimate are recorded in the interim period in which a change in the estimated annual effective rate is determined. As described in note 1, the Company began operating as a REIT for the taxable year commencing January 1, 2012. As a REIT, while the Company will continue to be subject to income taxes on the income of its TRSs, under the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, the Company may deduct amounts distributed to stockholders against the income generated in its QRSs. Additionally, the Company is able to offset income in both its TRSs and QRSs by utilizing its net operating losses.
As of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that would impact the effective tax rate, if recognized, was approximately $36.7 million and $34.5 million, respectively. The increase in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits during the three months ended March 31, 2012 is primarily attributable to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company expects the unrecognized tax benefits to change over the next 12 months if certain tax matters ultimately settle with the applicable taxing jurisdiction during this timeframe, as described in note 12 to the Company's consolidated financial statements included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011. The impact of the amount of such changes to previously recorded uncertain tax positions could range from zero to $3.0 million.
The Company recorded penalties and tax-related interest expense during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011 of $1.4 million and $1.3 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the total amount of accrued income tax-related interest and penalties included in other long-term liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets was $34.0 million and $31.5 million, respectively. |
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The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Stock-Based Compensation | 9. Stock-Based Compensation The Company recognized stock-based compensation expense during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011 of $13.0 million and $12.4 million, respectively. The Company capitalized $0.6 million and $3.1 million of stock-based compensation expense as property and equipment during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and year ended December 31, 2011, respectively.
Stock Options—The following table summarizes the Company's option activity for the three months ended March 31, 2012:
The Company estimates the fair value of each option grant on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes pricing model. The following assumptions were used to determine the grant date fair value for options granted during the three months ended March 31, 2012:
The weighted average grant date fair value per share during the three months ended March 31, 2012 was $17.41. As of March 31, 2012, total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested stock options was $42.9 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately three years. Restricted Stock Units—The following table summarizes the Company's restricted stock unit activity during the three months ended March 31, 2012:
As of March 31, 2012, total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock units was ##D<CY Unrecog Comp RSU> million, and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately three years. Dividends will accrue with each restricted stock unit award granted subsequent to January 1, 2012.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan—The Company maintains an employee stock purchase plan (the “ESPP”) for all eligible employees as described in note 13 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011. Under the ESPP, shares of the Company's common stock may be purchased on the last day of each bi-annual offering period at 85% of the lower of the fair market value on the first or the last day of such offering period. The offering periods run from June 1 through November 30 and from December 1 through May 31 of each year, and accordingly, no shares were purchased by employees during the three months ended March 31, 2012. |
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The entire disclosure for compensation-related costs for equity-based compensation, which may include disclosure of policies, compensation plan details, allocation of equity compensation, incentive distributions, equity-based arrangements to obtain goods and services, deferred compensation arrangements, employee stock ownership plan details and employee stock purchase plan details. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Mar. 31, 2012
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| Equity | 10. Equity
Stock Repurchase Program—In March 2011, the Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program, pursuant to which the Company is authorized to purchase up to $1.5 billion of common stock (“2011 Buyback”).
During the three months ended March 31, 2012, the Company repurchased 79,000 shares of its common stock for an aggregate of $4.9 million, including commissions and fees, pursuant to the 2011 Buyback. As of March 31, 2012, the Company had repurchased 3.5 million shares of its common stock under the 2011 Buyback for an aggregate of $186.1 million, including commissions and fees.
Between April 1, 2012 and April 24, 2012, the Company repurchased an additional 24,700 shares of its common stock for an aggregate of $1.6 million, including commissions and fees, pursuant to the 2011 Buyback. As of April 24, 2012, the Company had repurchased a total of approximately 3.6 million shares of its common stock under the 2011 Buyback for an aggregate of $187.7 million, including commissions and fees. Under the 2011 Buyback, the Company is authorized to purchase shares from time to time through open market purchases or privately negotiated transactions at prevailing prices in accordance with securities laws and other legal requirements, and subject to market conditions and other factors. To facilitate repurchases, the Company makes purchases pursuant to trading plans under Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which allows the Company to repurchase shares during periods when it otherwise might be prevented from doing so under insider trading laws or because of self-imposed trading blackout periods. In the near term, the Company expects to fund any further repurchases of its common stock through a combination of cash on hand, cash generated by operations and borrowings under its credit facilities. Purchases under the 2011 Buyback are subject to the Company having available cash to fund repurchases.
Dividends—On March 22, 2012, the Company declared a cash distribution of $0.21 per share, or approximately $82.9 million. The distribution was paid on April 25, 2012 to stockholders of record at the close of business on April 11, 2012. To maintain its REIT status, the Company expects to continue paying regular distributions, the amount of which will be determined, and is subject to adjustment, by the Company's Board of Directors.
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The entire disclosure for shareholders' equity, comprised of portions attributable to the parent entity and noncontrolling interest, if any, including other comprehensive income (as applicable). Including, but not limited to: (1) balances of common stock, preferred stock, additional paid-in capital, other capital and retained earnings; (2) accumulated balance for each classification of other comprehensive income and total amount of comprehensive income; (3) amount and nature of changes in separate accounts, including the number of shares authorized and outstanding, number of shares issued upon exercise and conversion, and for other comprehensive income, the adjustments for reclassifications to net income; (4) rights and privileges of each class of stock authorized; (5) basis of treasury stock, if other than cost, and amounts paid and accounting treatment for treasury stock purchased significantly in excess of market; (6) dividends paid or payable per share and in the aggregate for each class of stock for each period presented; (7) dividend restrictions and accumulated preferred dividends in arrears (in aggregate and per share amount); (8) retained earnings appropriations or restrictions, such as dividend restrictions; (9) impact of change in accounting principle, initial adoption of new accounting principle and correction of an error in previously issued financial statements; (10) shares held in trust for Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP); (11) deferred compensation related to issuance of capital stock; (12) note received for issuance of stock; (13) unamortized discount on shares; (14) description, terms, and number of warrants or rights outstanding; (15) shares under subscription and subscription receivables, effective date of new retained earnings after quasi-reorganization and deficit eliminated by quasi-reorganization and, for a period of at least ten years after the effective date, the point in time from which the new retained dates; and (16) retroactive effective of subsequent change in capital structure. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Earnings Per Common Share | 11. Earnings per Common Share Basic net income per common share represents net income attributable to American Tower Corporation divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per common share represents net income attributable to American Tower Corporation divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period and any dilutive common share equivalents, including shares issuable upon exercise of stock options and share based awards as determined under the treasury stock method. Dilutive common share equivalents also include the dilutive impact of the ALLTEL transaction (see note 12).
The following table sets forth basic and diluted income from continuing operations per common share computational data for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands, except per share data):
For the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, the diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding excluded shares issuable upon exercise of the Company's stock options and share based awards of 1.3 million and 1.0 million, respectively, as the effect would be anti-dilutive. |
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| Commitments and Contingencies | 12. Commitments and Contingencies
Litigation
The Company periodically becomes involved in various claims, lawsuits and proceedings that are incidental to its business. In the opinion of Company management, after consultation with counsel, other than the legal proceedings discussed below, there are no matters currently pending that would, in the event of an adverse outcome, materially impact the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
SEC Subpoena—On June 2, 2011, the Company received a subpoena from the SEC requesting certain documents from 2007 through the date of the subpoena, including in particular documents related to the Company's tax accounting and reporting. While the Company believes this investigation may in part relate to a former employee's complaints received in the past, which the Company previously investigated with the assistance of outside counsel and a forensic accounting firm, finding no material issues, the Company cannot at this time predict the scope or the outcome of this investigation. The Company understands that its independent registered public accounting firm and one of its consultants have also received subpoenas primarily related to the Company's tax accounting and reporting during this period and its investigation into this complaint. The Company has cooperated and intends to continue to cooperate fully with the SEC with respect to its investigation. Mexico Litigation—One of the Company's subsidiaries, SpectraSite Communications, Inc. (“SCI”), is involved in a lawsuit brought in Mexico against a former Mexican subsidiary of SCI (the subsidiary of SCI was sold in 2002, prior to the Company's merger with SCI's parent in 2005). The lawsuit concerns a terminated tower construction contract and related agreements with a wireless carrier in Mexico. The primary issue for the Company is whether SCI itself can be found liable to the Mexican carrier. The trial and lower appellate courts initially found that SCI had no such liability in part because Mexican courts do not have the necessary jurisdiction over SCI. In September 2010, following several decisions by Mexican appellate courts, including the Supreme Court of Mexico, and related appeals by both parties, an intermediate appellate court issued a new decision that would, if enforceable, reimpose liability on SCI. In its decision, the intermediate appellate court identified potential damages, in the form of potential statutory interest, of approximately $6.7 million as of that date. On October 14, 2010, the Company filed a new constitutional appeal to again dispute the decision, which was rejected on January 24, 2012. The case has been returned to the trial court to determine whether any actual damages should be awarded to the Mexican carrier by the primary defendant in the case or SCI. The Mexican carrier has asserted that it is entitled to approximately $7.9 million in damages. Any judgment of the court in Mexico against SCI would need to be enforced in the United States. As a result, at this stage of the proceeding, the Company is unable to determine whether the trial court in Mexico will assess damages against SCI and whether any such damages would be enforceable in the United States. Commitments
AT&T Transaction—The Company has an agreement with SBC Communications Inc., a predecessor entity to AT&T Inc. (“AT&T”), for the lease or sublease of approximately 2,500 towers from AT&T between December 2000 and August 2004. All of the towers are part of the Company's securitization transaction. The average term of the lease or sublease for all sites at the inception of the agreement was approximately 27 years, assuming renewals or extensions of the underlying ground leases for the sites. The Company has the option to purchase the sites subject to the applicable lease or sublease upon its expiration. Each tower is assigned to an annual tranche, ranging from 2013 to 2032, which represents the outside expiration date for the sublease rights to that tower. The purchase price for each site is a fixed amount stated in the sublease for that site plus the fair market value of certain alterations made to the related tower by AT&T. The aggregate purchase option price for the towers leased and subleased was approximately $508.1 million as of March 31, 2012, and will accrete at a rate of 10% per year to the applicable expiration of the lease or sublease of a site. For all such sites purchased by the Company prior to June 30, 2020, AT&T will continue to lease the reserved space at the then-current monthly fee which shall escalate in accordance with the standard master lease agreement for the remainder of AT&T's tenancy. Thereafter, AT&T shall have the right to renew such lease for up to four successive five-year terms. For all such sites purchased by the Company subsequent to June 30, 2020, AT&T has the right to continue to lease the reserved space for successive one year terms at a rent equal to the lesser of the agreed upon market rate and the then current monthly fee, which is subject to an annual increase based on changes in the Consumer Price Index.
ALLTEL Transaction—In December 2000, the Company entered into an agreement with ALLTEL (which completed its merger with Verizon Wireless in January 2009) to acquire towers from ALLTEL through a 15-year sublease agreement. Pursuant to the agreement with ALLTEL, as amended, the Company acquired rights to a total of approximately 1,800 towers in tranches between April 2001 and March 2002. The Company has the option to purchase each tower at the expiration of the applicable sublease, which will occur in tranches between April 2016 and March 2017 based on the original closing date for such tranche of towers. The purchase price per tower as of the original closing date was $27,500 and will accrete at a rate of 3% per annum through the expiration of the applicable sublease. The aggregate purchase option price for the subleased towers was approximately $67.6 million as of March 31, 2012. At ALLTEL's option, at the expiration of the sublease, the purchase price would be payable in cash or with 769 shares of the Company's common stock per tower, which at March 31, 2012 would be valued at approximately $86.1 million. |
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| Acquisitions and Other Transactions | 13. Acquisitions and Other Transactions
Acquisitions All of the acquisitions described below are being accounted for as business combinations. Each of these acquisitions are consistent with the Company's strategy to expand in selected geographic areas.
South Africa Acquisition—On November 4, 2010, the Company entered into a definitive agreement with Cell C to purchase up to approximately 1,400 existing communications sites, and up to 1,800 additional communications sites that either are under construction or will be constructed, for an aggregate purchase price of up to approximately $430.0 million. On March 8, 2011, the Company completed the purchase of 959 existing communications sites through its local South African subsidiary for an aggregate purchase price of $149.1 million, including value added tax, using cash on hand, local financing and funds contributed by South African investors who currently hold an approximate 25% noncontrolling interest in the Company's South African subsidiary. On July 25, 2011, the Company completed the purchase of an additional 329 existing communications sites from Cell C for approximately $51.5 million, including value added tax, and contingent consideration of $2.1 million.
On December 14, 2011, the Company acquired control of an additional 76 existing communications sites from Cell C for approximately $11.2 million, including value added tax, and contingent consideration of $0.5 million. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, legal title to certain of these communications sites will be transferred upon fulfillment of certain conditions by Cell C. Prior to the fulfillment of these conditions, the Company will operate these communications sites and reflect all associated revenues and expenses in its consolidated results of operations.
The agreement with Cell C requires the Company to make a one-time payment based on the annualized rent for each collocation installed for a specific wireless carrier on the acquired communications sites occurring within a four year period after the initial closing date. Based on current estimates, the Company estimates the future value of contingent consideration payments required to be made under the agreement to be between zero and $11.8 million. The fair value of the contingent consideration, which had preliminarily been estimated at zero, is estimated to be $11.2 million using a probability-weighted average of the expected outcomes at March 31, 2012. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, the Company recorded changes in fair value of $3.9 million as other operating expenses in the condensed consolidated statement of operations.
The acquisition is being accounted for as a business combination. The purchase price was allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The allocation of the purchase price was finalized during the three months ended March 31, 2012.
The following table summarizes the allocation of the aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition (in thousands):
Brazil Acquisition—On March 1, 2011, the Company acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of a company that owned 627 communications sites in Brazil for $553.2 million, which was subsequently increased to $585.4 million as a result of acquiring 39 additional communications sites during the year ended December 31, 2011. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, the purchase price was reduced to $585.3 million after certain post-closing purchase price adjustments.
The purchase price was allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The allocation of the purchase price was finalized during three months ended March 31, 2012.
The following table summarizes the allocation of the aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition (in thousands):
Brazil – Vivo Acquisition—On March 30, 2012, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to purchase up to 1,500 towers from Vivo S.A. Pursuant to this agreement, on March 30, 2012, the Company purchased 800 communications sites for an aggregate purchase price of $151.7 million, which is reflected in accounts payable in the condensed consolidated balance sheet for the three months ended March 31, 2012. The purchase price was preliminarily allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The preliminary allocation of the purchase price will be finalized upon the final settlement of the purchase price with the sellers and the subsequent completion of analyses of the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired.
The following table summarizes the allocation of the aggregate purchase price consideration paid and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition (in thousands):
Ghana Acquisition—On December 6, 2010, the Company entered into a definitive agreement with MTN Group to establish a joint venture in Ghana. The joint venture is managed by the Company and owns a tower operations company in Ghana. As the Company has a controlling financial interest in the joint venture, the financial results have been consolidated in the Company's financial statements.
Pursuant to the agreement, the joint venture agreed to purchase a total of up to 1,876 existing communications sites from MTN's operating subsidiary in Ghana (“MTN Ghana”) in various tranches through 2012, subject to customary closing conditions. The Company signed the necessary agreements to establish the joint venture on May 3, 2011. On May 6, 2011, the joint venture acquired 400 communications sites for an aggregate purchase price of $110.5 million, including value added tax, which was subsequently increased to $114.8 million after certain post closing adjustments during the year ended December 31, 2011.
On August 11, 2011, the joint venture acquired approximately 770 communications sites for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $204.2 million, including value added tax, which was subsequently increased to $205.7 million after certain post-closing purchase price adjustments during the year ended December 31, 2011. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, the purchase price was reduced to $205.4 million after post-closing purchase price adjustments.
On December 23, 2011, the joint venture acquired control of an additional 686 communications sites for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $192.9 million, including value added tax, which was subsequently increased to $193.9 million after certain post-closing purchase price adjustments during the three months ended March 31, 2012, and contingent consideration of $2.3 million. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, legal title to certain of these communications sites will be transferred upon fulfillment of certain conditions by MTN. Prior to the fulfillment of these conditions, the Company will operate these communications sites and reflect all associated revenues and expenses in its consolidated results of operations.
In December 2011, the Company signed an amendment to its agreement with MTN, which requires the Company to make additional payments upon the conversion of certain barter agreements with other wireless carriers to cash paying master lease agreements. Based on current estimates, the Company estimates the future value of contingent consideration payments required to be made under the amended agreement to be between zero and $7.3 million. The fair value of the contingent consideration is estimated to be $4.1 million using a probability weighted average of the expected outcomes at March 31, 2012. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, the Company recorded changes in fair value of $0.7 million as other operating expenses in the condensed consolidated statement of operations.
MTN Ghana will be the anchor tenant on each of the communications sites purchased. The purchase price was preliminarily allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The preliminary allocation of the purchase price will be finalized upon the final settlement of the purchase price with the sellers and the subsequent completion of analyses of the fair value of the asset and liabilities acquired.
The following table summarizes the allocation of the aggregate purchase price consideration paid and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition (in thousands):
Mexico Acquisition—On November 3, 2011, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to purchase up to approximately 730 communications sites from Telefónica's Mexican subsidiary, Pegaso PCS, S.A. de C.V. (“Telefónica Mexico”). On December 15, 2011, the Company completed the purchase of 584 communications sites, for an aggregate purchase price of $121.9 million. On December 7, 2011, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to purchase up to approximately 1,778 additional communications sites from Telefónica Mexico. On December 28, 2011, the Company completed the purchase of 1,422 communications sites, for an aggregate purchase price of $294.4 million. The acquisition is subject to a post-closing purchase price adjustment, following completion of the Company's post-closing due diligence of the acquired company's financial results.
The preliminary purchase price was allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The preliminary allocation of the purchase price will be finalized upon the completion of analyses of the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired.
The following table summarizes the allocation of the aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition (in thousands):
On April 3, 2012, the Company purchased an additional 55 communications sites from Telefónica Mexico for an aggregate purchase price of $12.5 million. Colombia – Telefónica Moviles Acquisition—During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company acquired 125 communications sites from Telefónica Moviles Colombia S.A. for an aggregate purchase price of $17.5 million.
The purchase price was preliminarily allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities based upon their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The preliminary allocation of the purchase price will be finalized upon the completion of an analysis of the fair value of the assets acquired. The following table summarizes the aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date (in thousands):
Chile – Telefónica Moviles Acquisition—On December 30, 2011, the Company purchased 100% of the outstanding shares of a subsidiary of Telefónica Moviles Chile S.A. that owned 558 communications sites, for an aggregate purchase price of $94.9 million. The purchase price is subject to additional post-closing adjustments, following completion of the Company's post-closing due diligence of the communications sites acquired. The purchase price was preliminarily allocated to the acquired assets and liabilities based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The preliminary allocation of the purchase price will be finalized upon the final settlement of the purchase price with the sellers and the subsequent completion of analyses of the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired.
The following table summarizes the allocation of the aggregate purchase price consideration paid and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition (in thousands):
U.S. Acquisitions—During the three months ended March 31, 2012, the Company acquired a total of 35 communications sites in the United States for $15.5 million.
The following table summarizes the preliminary allocation of the aggregate purchase consideration paid for acquisitions that closed during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities at the date of acquisition (in thousands):
Other Transactions
Uganda Transaction—On December 8, 2011, the Company entered into a definitive agreement with MTN Group to establish a joint venture in Uganda (“TowerCo Uganda”). TowerCo Uganda, which will be managed by the Company, will be controlled by a holding company of which a wholly owned American Tower subsidiary will hold a 51% share and a wholly owned MTN Group subsidiary (“MTN Uganda”) will hold a 49% share. The transaction involves the sale of up to approximately 1,000 of MTN Uganda's existing communications sites to TowerCo Uganda for an agreed purchase price of up to approximately $175 million, of which the Company will pay up to approximately $89 million for its 51% stake in the holding company. MTN Uganda will be the anchor tenant, on commercial terms, on each of the towers being purchased. The Company also expects that TowerCo Uganda will build approximately 280 additional communications sites for both MTN Uganda and other wireless operators in Uganda over the next three years. The Company expects to close on an initial tranche of towers in May 2012, subject to customary closing conditions. |
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The entire disclosure for a business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. The disclosure may include leverage buyout transactions (as applicable). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Business Segments
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| Business Segments | 14. Business Segments
The Company operates in three business segments: domestic rental and management, international rental and management and network development services. The domestic rental and management segment provides for the leasing of antenna space on multi-tenant communications sites to wireless service providers and radio and television broadcast companies in the United States. The international rental and management segment provides for the leasing of antenna space on multi-tenant communications sites to wireless service providers and radio and television broadcast companies in Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ghana, India, Mexico, Peru and South Africa. Through its network development services segment, the Company offers tower-related services in the United States, including site acquisition, zoning and permitting services and structural analysis services, which primarily support the Company's site leasing business and the addition of new tenants and equipment on its sites.
The accounting policies applied in compiling segment information below are similar to those described in note 1 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011. In evaluating financial performance, management focuses on segment gross margin and segment operating profit. The Company defines segment gross margin as segment revenue less segment operating expenses excluding stock-based compensation expense recorded in costs of operations; depreciation, amortization and accretion; selling, general, administrative and development expense; and other operating expenses. The Company defines segment operating profit as segment gross margin less selling, general, administrative and development expense attributable to the segment, excluding stock-based compensation expense and corporate expenses. For reporting purposes, the international rental and management segment operating profit and segment gross margin also include interest income, TV Azteca, net. These measures of segment gross margin and segment operating profit are also before interest income, interest expense, loss on retirement of long-term obligations, other income (expense), net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, income (loss) on equity method investments, income taxes and discontinued operations.
Summarized financial information concerning the Company's reportable segments for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011 is shown in the tables below. The Other column represents amounts excluded from specific segments, such as business development operations, stock-based compensation expense and corporate expenses included in selling, general, administrative and development expense; other operating expense; interest income; interest expense; loss on retirement of long-term obligations; and other income (expense), as well as reconciles segment operating profit to income from continuing operations before income taxes and income on equity method investments, as these amounts are not utilized in assessing each segment's performance.
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)
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Mar. 31, 2012
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| Description Of Business And Basis Of Presentation Disclosure [Abstract] | |
| REIT Conversion | REIT Conversion—In May 2011, the Company announced its intention to reorganize to qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes (the “REIT Conversion”). As part of the REIT Conversion, effective December 31, 2011, the Company completed the merger with its predecessor that was approved by the Company's stockholders in November 2011. At the time of the merger all outstanding shares of Class A common stock of ATC were converted into a right to receive an equal number of shares of common stock of the surviving corporation. In addition, each share of Class A common stock of ATC held in treasury at December 31, 2011 ceased to be outstanding, and a corresponding adjustment was recorded to additional paid-in capital and common stock.
The Company began operating as a REIT for the taxable year commencing January 1, 2012. The Company believes that as of that date it has been organized and has operated in a manner that enables it to qualify, and intends to continue to operate in a manner that will allow it to continue to qualify, as a REIT for federal income tax purposes.
The Company holds and operates certain of its assets through one or more taxable REIT subsidiaries (“TRSs”). A TRS is a subsidiary of a REIT that is subject to applicable corporate income tax. The Company's use of TRSs enables it to continue to engage in certain businesses while complying with REIT qualification requirements and also allows the Company to retain income generated by these businesses for reinvestment without the requirement of distributing those earnings. The non-REIT qualified businesses that the Company holds through TRSs include its network development services segment. In addition, the Company has included its international operations and DAS networks business within its TRSs. In the future, the Company may elect to reorganize and transfer certain assets or operations, such as its international operations, from its TRSs to other subsidiaries, including qualified REIT subsidiaries or other REIT disregarded entities (“QRSs”).
As a REIT, the Company generally will not be subject to federal income taxes on its income and gains that the Company distributes to its stockholders, including the income derived from leasing towers. However, even as a REIT, the Company will remain obligated to pay income taxes on earnings from all of its TRS assets. In addition, the Company's international assets and operations continue to be subject to taxation in the foreign jurisdictions where those assets are held or those operations are conducted.
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| Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation | Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation—The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and those entities in which it has a controlling interest. Investments in entities that the Company does not control are accounted for using the equity or cost method, depending upon the Company's ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. |
| Significant Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates | Significant Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimates, and such differences could be material to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. The Company considers events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued as additional evidence for certain estimates or to identify matters that require additional disclosure. |
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Policy on REIT Conversion No definition available.
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Significant Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates Policy [Text Block] No definition available.
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Disclosure of accounting policy regarding (1) the principles it follows in consolidating or combining the separate financial statements, including the principles followed in determining the inclusion or exclusion of subsidiaries or other entities in the consolidated or combined financial statements and (2) its treatment of interests (for example, common stock, a partnership interest or other means of exerting influence) in other entities, for example consolidation or use of the equity or cost methods of accounting. The accounting policy may also address the accounting treatment for intercompany accounts and transactions, noncontrolling interest, and the income statement treatment in consolidation for issuances of stock by a subsidiary. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Prepaid And Other Current Assets (Tables)
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Schedule of prepaid and other current assets No definition available.
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Tabular disclosure of the estimated aggregate amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization for each of the five succeeding fiscal years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Tabular disclosure of amortizable intangibles assets, in total and by major class, including the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Tabular disclosure of goodwill by reportable segment and in total. Disclosure details may include, but are not limited to, the carrying amount of goodwill, goodwill acquired during the year, goodwill impairment losses recognized, goodwill written-off due to the sale of a business unit, goodwill not yet allocated, and any other changes to goodwill. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)
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| Schedule of interest rate swap agreements' impact on other comprehensive income |
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Tabular disclosure of the location and amount of gains and losses reported in the statement of financial performance, or when applicable, the statement of financial position. For example, (a) gains and losses recognized in the income statement on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges and (b) gains and losses initially recognized in other comprehensive income on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the location and fair value amounts of derivative instruments (and nonderivative instruments that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments) reported in the statement of financial position. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Fair Value Measurements (Tables)
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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2012
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| Fair Value Measurements [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis |
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments measured at fair value that are classified in stockholders' equity, if any, that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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|
Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)
|
3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2012
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| Stock-Based Compensation | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Summary of the company's option activity |
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| Assumptions used to determine the grant date fair value for options granted |
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| Summary of the company's restricted stock unit activity |
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the number and weighted-average grant date fair value for restricted stock units that were outstanding at the beginning and end of the year, and the number of restricted stock units that were granted, vested, or forfeited during the year. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the number and weighted-average exercise prices (or conversion ratios) for share options (or share units) that were outstanding at the beginning and end of the year, vested and expected to vest, exercisable or convertible at the end of the year, and the number of share options or share units that were granted, exercised or converted, forfeited, and expired during the year. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the significant assumptions used during the year to estimate the fair value of stock options, including, but not limited to: (a) expected term of share options and similar instruments, (b) expected volatility of the entity's shares, (c) expected dividends, (d) risk-free rate(s), and (e) discount for post-vesting restrictions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
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|
Earnings Per Common Share (Tables)
|
3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Mar. 31, 2012
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| NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE AMOUNTS: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of earnings per basic and diluted by common class |
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of basic net earnings per share (or unit) to diluted earnings per share (or unit). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Acquisitions and Other Transactions (Tables)
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3 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Mar. 31, 2012
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South Africa Acquisition [Member]
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| Schedule of aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amount of assets acquired |
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Brazil Acquisition [Member]
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| Schedule of aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amount of assets acquired |
|
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Brazil Vivo Acquisition [Member]
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| Schedule of aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amount of assets acquired |
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Ghana Acquisition [Member]
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| Schedule of aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amount of assets acquired |
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Mexico Acquisition [Member]
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| Schedule of aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amount of assets acquired |
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Colombia Moviles 2011 Acquisition [Member]
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| Schedule of aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amount of assets acquired |
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Chile Moviles Acquisition [Member]
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| Schedule of aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amount of assets acquired |
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Us Acquisition 2012 [Member]
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| Schedule of aggregate purchase consideration paid and the amount of assets acquired |
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of all of the fair values of the purchase price and assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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|
Business Segments (Tables)
|
3 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
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| Business Segments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Summarized financial information concerning the company's reportable segments |
|
|
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the profit or loss and total assets for each reportable segment. An entity discloses certain information on each reportable segment if the amounts (a) are included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) are otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or loss. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Prepaid and Other Current Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current [Abstract] | |||||
| Prepaid assets | $ 130,164 | $ 112,806 | [1] | ||
| Value added tax and other consumption tax receivables | 89,638 | 145,486 | [1] | ||
| Other miscellaneous current assets | 59,716 | 59,406 | [1] | ||
| Prepaid assets and other current assets | $ 279,518 | $ 317,698 | [1] | ||
|
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value added tax and other consumption tax receivables No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of current assets which have not been itemized or categorized in the footnotes to the financial statements and are a component of Other Assets, Current (OtherAssetsCurrent). Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total of the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and the aggregate carrying amount of current assets, as of the balance sheet date, not separately presented elsewhere in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Shot-Term Investments and Available-For-Sale Securities (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|---|---|---|
| Short-term Investments [Abstract] | ||
| Short-term investments | $ 32.8 | $ 22.3 |
| Available-for-sale securities | $ 0.1 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For an unclassified balance sheet, this item represents investments in debt and equity securities which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Other investments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy that will be realized in a short period of time, usually less than one year or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
years
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | ||
| Weighted average amortization period of intangible assets, years | 12 | |
| Amortization of intangible assets | $ 51.8 | $ 42.9 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Weighted average remaining amortization period No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate amount of intangible asset amortization recognized as expense during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Rollforwardl) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
||||
| Balance as of December 31, 2011 | $ 2,726,376 | [1] | ||
| Additions | 22,952 | |||
| Effect of foreign currency translation | 18,188 | |||
| Balance as of March 31, 2012 | 2,767,516 | |||
|
Rental And Management [Member] | Domestic [Member]
|
||||
| Balance as of December 31, 2011 | 2,243,950 | [1] | ||
| Additions | 0 | |||
| Effect of foreign currency translation | 0 | |||
| Balance as of March 31, 2012 | 2,243,950 | |||
|
Rental And Management [Member] | International [Member]
|
||||
| Balance as of December 31, 2011 | 480,426 | [1] | ||
| Additions | 22,952 | |||
| Effect of foreign currency translation | 18,188 | |||
| Balance as of March 31, 2012 | 521,566 | |||
|
Network Development Services [Member]
|
||||
| Balance as of December 31, 2011 | 2,000 | [1] | ||
| Additions | 0 | |||
| Effect of foreign currency translation | 0 | |||
| Balance as of March 31, 2012 | $ 2,000 | |||
|
||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, which is the cumulative amount paid and (if applicable) the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, adjusted for any amortization recognized prior to the adoption of any changes in generally accepted accounting principles (as applicable) and for any impairment charges, in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in one or more business combination transactions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of goodwill acquired in the period and allocated to the reportable segment. The value is stated at fair value based on the purchase price allocation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) to the recorded value of goodwill for foreign currency translation adjustments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Changes in the Carrying Value of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
years
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|||||||||
| Gross Carrying Value | $ 4,056,018 | $ 3,947,873 | [1] | |||||||
| Accumulated Amortization | (1,586,490) | (1,530,257) | [1] | |||||||
| Net Book Value | 2,469,528 | 2,417,616 | [1] | |||||||
| Deferred financing costs, net | 53,826 | [2] | 47,532 | [1],[2] | ||||||
| Other intangible assets, net | 2,523,354 | 2,465,148 | [1] | |||||||
|
Acquired Network Location [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Gross Carrying Value | 1,576,537 | [3] | 1,529,419 | [1],[3] | ||||||
| Accumulated Amortization | (671,003) | [3] | (654,137) | [1],[3] | ||||||
| Net Book Value | 905,534 | [3] | 875,282 | [1],[3] | ||||||
| Estimated Useful Lives (in years) | 20 | |||||||||
|
Acquired Customer Relationships [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Gross Carrying Value | 2,425,179 | 2,366,613 | [1] | |||||||
| Accumulated Amortization | (881,456) | (843,432) | [1] | |||||||
| Net Book Value | 1,543,723 | 1,523,181 | [1] | |||||||
| Estimated Useful Lives, minimum (in years) | 15 | |||||||||
| Estimated Useful Lives, maximum (in years) | 20 | |||||||||
|
Acquired Licenses And Other Intangibles [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Gross Carrying Value | 25,034 | 24,939 | [1] | |||||||
| Accumulated Amortization | (20,287) | (20,045) | [1] | |||||||
| Net Book Value | 4,747 | 4,894 | [1] | |||||||
| Estimated Useful Lives, minimum (in years) | 3 | |||||||||
| Estimated Useful Lives, maximum (in years) | 15 | |||||||||
|
Economic Rights, TV Azteca [Member]
|
||||||||||
| Gross Carrying Value | 29,268 | 26,902 | [1] | |||||||
| Accumulated Amortization | (13,744) | (12,643) | [1] | |||||||
| Net Book Value | $ 15,524 | $ 14,259 | [1] | |||||||
| Estimated Useful Lives (in years) | 70 | |||||||||
|
||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Net amount of long-term deferred finance costs capitalized at the end of the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The accumulated amount of amortization of a major finite-lived intangible asset class. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of the gross carrying amounts before accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date of all intangible assets having statutory or estimated useful lives. The aggregate gross carrying amount (including any previously recognized impairment charges) of a major finite-lived intangible asset class. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate sum of gross carrying value of a major finite-lived intangible asset class, less accumulated amortization and any impairment charges. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The useful life of all finite-lived intangible assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The maximum useful life of a major finite-lived intangible asset class. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The minimum useful life of a major finite-lived intangible asset class. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, net of accumulated amortization and impairment charges. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Expected Future Amortization Expenses) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
|
| Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | |
| 2012 (remaining year) | $ 148,411 |
| 2013 | 189,250 |
| 2014 | 181,483 |
| 2015 | 168,534 |
| 2016 | 161,186 |
| 2017 | $ 159,533 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the remainder of the current fiscal year. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during year five of the five succeeding fiscal years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during year four of the five succeeding fiscal years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during year one of the five succeeding fiscal years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during year three of the five succeeding fiscal years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during year two of the five succeeding fiscal years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Financing Transactions (Narrative) (Details)
|
3 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
2011 Credit Facility Member
USD ($)
|
Mar. 31, 2012
2012 Credit Facility Member
USD ($)
|
Apr. 25, 2012
Colombia Short Term Credit Facility [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Colombia Short Term Credit Facility [Member]
USD ($)
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Colombia Short Term Credit Facility [Member]
COP
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Colombian Bridge Loans Member
USD ($)
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Colombian Bridge Loans Member
COP
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Colombian Bridge Loans Member
Colombian Bridge Loan DEC [Member]
COP
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Colombian Bridge Loans Member
Colombian Bridge Loan DEC [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Colombian Bridge Loans Member
Colombian Bridge Loan FEB [Member]
COP
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Ghana Loan [Member]
USD ($)
|
Mar. 31, 2012
South African Facility [Member]
USD ($)
|
Mar. 31, 2012
South African Facility [Member]
ZAR
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Four Point Seven Zero Percent Senior Notes [Member]
USD ($)
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
USD ($)
|
Jan. 31, 2012
Term Loan [Member]
USD ($)
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Colombian Loan [Member]
USD ($)
|
|
| Total long term obligation | $ 131,000,000 | $ 89,500,000 | 687,000,000 | $ 13,200,000 | |||||||||||||
| Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity | 1,000,000,000 | 1,000,000,000 | 1,200,000,000 | 1,250,000,000 | |||||||||||||
| Letters of credit outstanding | 2,700,000 | ||||||||||||||||
| Term of revolving credit facility | 5 | 5 | |||||||||||||||
| Spread above Libor rate for Libor based borrowings minimum | 1.075% | ||||||||||||||||
| Spread above Libor rate for Libor based borrowings maximum | 2.40% | ||||||||||||||||
| Spread above base rate for base rate borrowings minimum | 0.075% | ||||||||||||||||
| Spread above base rate for base rate borrowings maximum | 1.40% | ||||||||||||||||
| Interest rate, effective | 9.35% | 9.35% | |||||||||||||||
| Quarterly commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the credit facility minimum | 0.125% | ||||||||||||||||
| Quarterly commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the credit facility maximum | 0.45% | ||||||||||||||||
| Proceeds from the issuance of debt | 693,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||
| Repayment of indebtedness | 325,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||
| Credit facility, outstanding | 632,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument Interest Rate | 8.20% | 7.65% | 7.65% | 8.20% | 7.15% | 7.95% | 9.00% | 4.70% | 8.30% | ||||||||
| Debt Maturity Date | Apr. 08, 2016 | Jan. 31, 2017 | Jul. 25, 2012 | Apr. 25, 2012 | Apr. 25, 2012 | Jun. 22, 2012 | Mar. 22, 2012 | May 22, 2012 | May 04, 2016 | Mar. 31, 2020 | Mar. 31, 2020 | Mar. 15, 2022 | Feb. 22, 2022 | ||||
| Redemption price as a percentage of principal | 100.00% | ||||||||||||||||
| Repurchase price as percentage of principal | 101.00% | ||||||||||||||||
| Long-term debt, gross | 700,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||
| Commitment fee percentage | 0.225% | ||||||||||||||||
| Current margin over LIBOR | 1.625% | ||||||||||||||||
| Short term debt outstanding | $ 78,900,000 | 141,100,000,000 | $ 46,200,000 | 82,600,000,000 | 51,900,000,000 | 30,700,000,000 | |||||||||||
| Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent | 51.00% | 60.00% | |||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The current margin over LIBOR that the Company would incur borrowings for the Credit Facility No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Quarterly commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the Credit Facility Maximum No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Quarterly commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the Credit Facility Minimum No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Redemption price as a percentage of principal No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Repayment of indebtedness No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Repurchase price as percentage of principal No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Spread above base rate for base rate borrowings maximum No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Spread Above Base Rate For Base Rate Borrowings Minimum No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The maximum spread above LIBOR for LIBOR based borrowings No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The minimum spread above LIBOR for LIBOR based borrowings No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Term Of Revolving Credit Facility No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Including current and noncurrent portions, aggregate carrying amount of long-term borrowings as of the balance sheet date before deducting unamortized discount or premiums (if any). May include notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, which had initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Interest rate stated in the contractual debt agreement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Date when the debt instrument is scheduled to be fully repaid, which may be presented in a variety of ways (year, month and year, day, month and year, quarter, etc.). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of the contingent obligation under letters of credit outstanding as of the reporting date. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount borrowed under the credit facility as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The fee, expressed as a percentage of the line of credit facility, for the line of credit facility regardless of whether the facility has been used. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effective interest rate at the end of the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Including current and noncurrent portions, aggregate carrying amount of long-term borrowings as of the balance sheet date. May include notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, which had initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The parent entity's interest in net assets of the subsidiary, expressed as a percentage. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow during the period from additional borrowings in aggregate debt. Includes proceeds from short-term and long-term debt. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reflects the total carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of debt having initial terms less than one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
USD ($)
integer
|
Mar. 31, 2012
ZAR
|
Mar. 31, 2011
integer
|
Mar. 31, 2012
South African Facility [Member]
|
|
| Notional Amount of Cash Flow Hedge Instruments | $ 45,614 | 350,000 | ||
| Derivative, Lower Fixed Interest Rate Range | 7.21% | |||
| Derivative, Higher Fixed Interest Rate Range | 7.25% | |||
| Derivative, Maturity Date | Mar. 31, 2020 | Mar. 31, 2020 | ||
| Number of interest rate swap agreements | 3 | 3 | 12 | |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
High end of the range of fixed interest rates when a range is presented for a group of interest rate derivatives. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Low end of the range of fixed interest rates when a range is presented for a group of interest rate derivatives. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The date the derivative matures. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate notional amount of all derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments. The notional amount relates to a number of currency units, shares, bushels, pounds, or other units specified in a derivative instrument. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of interest rate derivative instruments held by the entity at the reporting date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments (Schedule of Interest Rate Swap Agreements) (Details)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
Mar. 31, 2012
USD ($)
|
Mar. 31, 2012
ZAR
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Notional Amount | $ 45,614 | 350,000 | [1] | ||
| Carrying Amount and Fair Value | $ 379 | 2,908 | [1] | ||
|
|||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair value of derivative liability, presented on a gross basis even when the derivative instrument is subject to master netting arrangements and qualifies for net presentation in the statement of financial position. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate notional amount of all derivatives. The notional amount relates to a number of currency units, shares, bushels, pounds, or other units specified in a derivative instrument. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Derivative Financial Instruments (Schedule of Interest Rate Swap Agreements Impact on Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| Derivative Financial Instruments | ||
| Amount of Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion) | $ (535) | $ (228) |
| Amount of Gain/(Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) | $ (152) | $ (2,205) |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effective portion of net gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effective portion of gains and losses (net) on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments that was recognized in other comprehensive income during the current period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
|
Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
|
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| Fair Value Measurements [Abstract] | ||
| Impairment charges to write down certain assets to net realizable value | $ 10,700,000 | |
| Assets held and used, long-lived fair value disclosure | 288,800,000 | |
| Fair Value, Contingent Consideration | 5,800,000 | |
| Contingent consideration, Payments | 400,000 | |
| Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure | 7,700,000,000 | 7,500,000,000 |
| Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount | 7,300,000,000 | 7,200,000,000 |
| Contingent Consideration Change F X | $ 1,400,000 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Assets held and used long-lived fair value disclosure No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents total gains or losses for the period (unrealized), arising from liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or resulted in a change in foreign currency rates No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The charge against earnings resulting from the aggregate write down of all assets from their carrying value to their fair value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Represents the aggregate of total long-term debt, including current maturities and short-term debt. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Settlements that have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or resulted in a change in net asset value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Fair Value Measurement (Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term investments and available-for-sale securities | $ 32,817 | [1] | $ 22,270 | [1] | ||||
| Interest rate swap agreements | 379 | [2] | ||||||
| Aquisition-related contingent consideration | 32,359 | 25,617 | ||||||
|
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
|
||||||||
| Short-term investments and available-for-sale securities | 32,817 | [1] | 22,270 | [1] | ||||
|
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
|
||||||||
| Interest rate swap agreements | 379 | [2] | ||||||
|
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
|
||||||||
| Aquisition-related contingent consideration | $ 32,359 | $ 25,617 | ||||||
|
||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Fair value, as of the acquisition date, of potential payments under the contingent consideration arrangement including cash and shares. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Derivative instrument obligations meeting the definition of a liability which the Company is a party to as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. This item represents investment securities as of the balance sheet date which may include marketable securities, derivative financial instruments, and investments accounted for under the equity method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|
| Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate | $ 36.7 | $ 34.5 | |
| Penalties and tax-related interest expense during period | 1.4 | 1.3 | |
| Unrecognized Tax Benefits Income Tax Penalties And Interest Accrued | 34.0 | 31.5 | |
|
Minimum [Member]
|
|||
| Potential impact of uncertain tax positions | 0 | ||
|
Maximum [Member]
|
|||
| Potential impact of uncertain tax positions | $ 3.0 | ||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Potential impact of uncertain tax positions No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the total of accruals as of the date of the statement of financial position for interest recognized for an underpayment of income taxes computed by applying the applicable statutory rate of interest to the difference between a tax position recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amount previously taken or expected to be taken in a tax return of the entity and the amount of statutory penalties for a tax position claimed or expected to be claimed by the entity, in its tax return, that does not meet the minimum statutory threshold to avoid payment of penalties. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the total of interest expense recognized for an underpayment of income taxes computed by applying the applicable statutory rate of interest to the difference between a tax position recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amount previously taken or expected to be taken in a tax return of the entity and the amount of statutory penalties in the period in which the entity claims or expects to claim a tax position, in its tax return, that does not meet the minimum statutory threshold to avoid payment of penalties. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
|
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|
| Stock-based compensation expense | $ 13,045,000 | $ 12,358,000 | |
| Capitalized stock-based compensation expense | 600,000 | 3,100,000 | |
|
Stock Option [Member]
|
|||
| Weighted average grant date fair value per share | $ 17.41 | ||
| Total unrecognized compensation expense | 42,900,000 | ||
| Expected recognition of stock award compensation expense weighted average period in years | 3 | ||
|
Restricted Stock [Member]
|
|||
| Total unrecognized compensation expense | $ 98,600,000 | ||
| Expected recognition of stock award compensation expense weighted average period in years | 3 | ||
|
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
|
|||
| Percent Purchase Price For Employee Purchase Shares | 85.00% | ||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of fair market value paid by employees under the employee stock purchase plan for shares of the Company's common stock No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Represents the compensation cost capitalized during the period arising from equity-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, units, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
As of the balance sheet date, the aggregate unrecognized cost of equity-based awards made to employees under equity-based compensation awards that have yet to vest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average period over which unrecognized compensation is expected to be recognized for equity-based compensation plans, using a decimal to express in number of years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted during the reporting period as calculated by applying the disclosed option pricing methodology. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Stock-Based Compensation (Summary of the Company's Option Activity) (Details) (Stock Option [Member])
|
3 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
|
|
Stock Option [Member]
|
|
| Outstanding as of January 1, 2012 | 6,376,244 |
| Granted | 1,182,796 |
| Exercised | (466,317) |
| Forfeited | (56,525) |
| Expired | (900) |
| Outstanding as of March 31, 2012 | 7,035,298 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The decrease in the number of shares that could be issued attributable to the lapse of rights to exercise previously issued stock options under the terms of the option agreements under the plan during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of shares under options that were cancelled during the reporting period as a result of occurrence of a terminating event specified in contractual agreements pertaining to the stock option plan. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Net number of share options (or share units) granted during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of shares reserved for issuance under stock option agreements awarded under the plan that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date, including vested options. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of share options (or share units) exercised during the current period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Stock-Based Compensation (Assumptions Used to Determine the Grant Date Fair Value for Options Granted) (Details) (Stock Option [Member])
|
3 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
years
|
|
|
Stock Option [Member]
|
|
| Minimum range of risk-free interest rate | 0.89% |
| Maximum range of risk-free interest rate | 0.92% |
| Weighted average risk-free interest rate | 0.92% |
| Expected life of option grants, years | 4.4 |
| Minimum range of expected volatility of underlying stock price | 37.86% |
| Maximum range of expected volatility of underlying stock price | 37.86% |
| Weighted average expected volatility of underlying stock price | 37.86% |
| Expected annual dividends | 1.50% |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated dividend rate (a percentage of the share price) to be paid (expected dividends) to holders of the underlying shares over the option's term. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The period of time an equity-based award is expected to be outstanding. An equity-based award's expected term is generally determined based on, among other factors, the instrument's contractual term and the effects of employees' expected exercise and post-vesting employment termination behavior. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated measure of the maximum percentage by which a share price is expected to fluctuate during a period. Volatility also may be defined as a probability-weighted measure of the dispersion of returns about the mean. The volatility of a share price is the standard deviation of the continuously compounded rates of return on the share over a specified period. That is the same as the standard deviation of the differences in the natural logarithms of the stock prices plus dividends, if any, over the period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The estimated measure of the minimum percentage by which a share price is expected to fluctuate during a period. Volatility also may be defined as a probability-weighted measure of the dispersion of returns about the mean. The volatility of a share price is the standard deviation of the continuously compounded rates of return on the share over a specified period. That is the same as the standard deviation of the differences in the natural logarithms of the stock prices plus dividends, if any, over the period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The risk-free interest rate assumption that is used in valuing an option on its own shares. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The maximum risk-free interest rate assumption that is used in valuing an option on its own shares. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The minimum risk-free interest rate assumption that is used in valuing an option on its own shares. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The range of expected volatilities used and the weighted-average expected volatility for an entity using a valuation technique with different volatilities during the contractual term. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Stock-Based Compensation (Summary of the Company's Restricted Stock Unit Activity) (Details) (Restricted Stock [Member])
|
3 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
|
|
Restricted Stock [Member]
|
|
| Outstanding as of January 1, 2012 | 2,197,460 |
| Number of Units Granted | 796,272 |
| Number of Units Vested | (820,653) |
| Number of Units Forfeited | (20,742) |
| Outstanding as of March 31, 2012 | 2,152,337 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that were forfeited during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of grants made during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of non-vested equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that vested during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Equity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
|
1 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 14 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 13 Months Ended | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Apr. 24, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
Apr. 24, 2012
|
Mar. 22, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Treasury Stock
|
Mar. 31, 2011
Treasury Stock
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Two Thousand Eleven Buyback [Member]
|
|
| Treasury stock shares acquired | 24,700 | 79,000 | 3,600,000 | 79,000 | 2,389,747 | 3,500,000 | |||
| Treasury stock value acquired cost method | $ 1,600,000 | $ 4,924,000 | $ 122,739,000 | $ 187,700,000 | $ 4,924,000 | $ 122,739,000 | $ 186,100,000 | ||
| Treasury stock amount paid in cash | 20,665,000 | 127,723,000 | |||||||
| Authorized Repurchase of common stock | 1,500,000,000 | ||||||||
| Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share | $ 0.21 | ||||||||
| Dividends Payable, Amount | $ 82,900,000 | ||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of dividends declared, but not paid, as of the financial reporting date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The per share amount of a dividend declared, but not paid, as of the financial reporting date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow to reacquire common stock during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount authorized by an entity's Board of Directors under a stock repurchase plan. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares that have been repurchased during the period and are being held in treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Equity impact of the cost of common and preferred stock that were repurchased during the period. Recorded using the cost method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Earnings Per Common Share (Narrative) (Details)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| Shares issuable upon conversion of the stock-based awards | 1.3 | 1.0 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Securities (including those issuable pursuant to contingent stock agreements) that could potentially dilute basic earnings per share (EPS) or earnings per unit (EPU) in the future that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS or EPU because to do so would increase EPS or EPU amounts or decrease loss per share or unit amounts for the period presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Earnings Per Common Share (Schedule of Earnings Per Basic And Diluted by Common Class) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE AMOUNTS: | ||
| Income from continuing operations attributable to American Tower Corporation | $ 221,306 | $ 91,842 |
| Basic weighted average common shares outstanding | 393,885 | 397,768 |
| Dilutive securities | 4,568 | 4,131 |
| Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding | 398,453 | 401,899 |
| Basic income from continuing operations attributable to American Tower Corporation per common share | $ 0.56 | $ 0.23 |
| Diluted income from continuing operations attributable to American Tower Corporation per common share | $ 0.56 | $ 0.23 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the parent which may also be defined as revenue less expenses and taxes from ongoing operations before extraordinary items but after deduction of those portions of income or loss from continuing operations that are allocable to noncontrolling interests, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) from continuing operations per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) derived from continuing operations during the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of dilutive potential common shares or units used in the calculation of the diluted per-share or per-unit computation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Commitments And Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
|
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Mexico Litigation [Member]
|
Sep. 03, 2010
Mexico Litigation [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
At T Transaction [Member]
years
sites
|
Mar. 31, 2012
ALLTEL Transaction [Member]
years
|
Dec. 31, 2000
ALLTEL Transaction [Member]
sites
|
|
| Number of towers leased or subleased | 2,500 | 1,800 | |||
| Average lease term (in years) | 27 | ||||
| Tower assigned to annual tranche maximum year | 2032 | ||||
| Tower assigned to annual tranche minimum year | 2013 | ||||
| Aggregate purchase option price for towers | $ 508,100,000 | $ 67,600,000 | |||
| Purchase price accretion rate (per year) | 10.00% | 3.00% | |||
| Right to renew lease, terms | four successive five-year terms | ||||
| Sublease term, years | 15 | ||||
| Cash purchase price per tower | 27,500 | ||||
| Purchase price of tower in shares of common stock | 769 | ||||
| Value of potential shares payable | 86,100,000 | ||||
| Damages Assessed By Intermediate Appellate Court | 6,700,000 | ||||
| Damages asserted by Mexican Carrier | $ 7,900,000 | ||||
| Years Right To Continue To Lease Space | 1 | ||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate Purchase Option Price For Towers No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of damages asserted by Mexican Carrier No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Damages Assed by the intermediate appelate court No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Expiration date for the sublease rights to a tower assigned to the annual tranche. The Company has the option to purchase the sites subject to the applicable lease or sublease upon its expiration. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Expiration date for the sublease rights to a tower assigned to the annual tranche. The Company has the option to purchase the sites subject to the applicable lease or sublease upon its expiration. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number Of Towers Leased Or Subleased No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Accretion rate stated in purchase agreement (per year) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Purchase Price Of Tower In Shares Common Stock No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Cash puchase price per tower No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Value of shares at period end if seller requires payment in shares of common stock, rather than cash No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Right To Renew Lease No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tower sublease term (in years) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sucessive years with the right to coninute to lease space No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Specifies the time period covered by the arrangement. No definition available.
|
|
Acquisitions and Other Transactions (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
|
0 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Nov. 04, 2010
South Africa Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Mar. 31, 2012
South Africa Acquisition [Member]
years
|
Dec. 14, 2011
South Africa Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Jul. 25, 2011
South Africa Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Mar. 08, 2011
South Africa Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Brazil Acquisition [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Brazil Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Mar. 01, 2011
Brazil Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Mar. 30, 2012
Brazil Vivo Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Dec. 06, 2010
Ghana Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Ghana Acquisition [Member]
|
Dec. 23, 2011
Ghana Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Aug. 11, 2011
Ghana Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
May 06, 2011
Ghana Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Dec. 07, 2011
Mexico Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Nov. 03, 2011
Mexico Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Apr. 03, 2012
Mexico Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Dec. 28, 2011
Mexico Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Dec. 15, 2011
Mexico Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Colombia Moviles 2011 Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Dec. 30, 2011
Chile Moviles Acquisition [Member]
towers
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Us Acquisition 2012 [Member]
towers
|
Dec. 08, 2011
Uganda transaction [Member]
towers
|
|
| Aggregate purchase price | $ 430,000,000 | $ 11,200,000 | $ 51,500,000 | $ 149,100,000 | $ 553,200,000 | $ 151,700,000 | $ 192,900,000 | $ 204,200,000 | $ 110,500,000 | $ 12,500,000 | $ 294,400,000 | $ 121,900,000 | $ 17,500,000 | $ 94,900,000 | $ 15,500,000 | ||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Adjusted Purchase Price | 585,300,000 | 585,400,000 | 205,400,000 | 193,900,000 | 205,700,000 | 114,800,000 | |||||||||||||||||
| Number of communications sites acquired | 76 | 329 | 959 | 39 | 627 | 800 | 686 | 770 | 400 | 55 | 1,422 | 584 | 125 | 558 | 35 | ||||||||
| Maximum number of communications sites to be acquired | 1,400 | 1,500 | 1,876 | 1,778 | 730 | 1,000 | |||||||||||||||||
| Additional communications sites to be acquired | 1,800 | 280 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Contingent consideration | 11,200,000 | 500,000 | 2,100,000 | 0 | 4,100,000 | 2,300,000 | |||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High | 11,800,000 | 7,300,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, Low | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Percentage of business acquired | 100.00% | 100.00% | 51.00% | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Percentage of minority investors | 25.00% | 49.00% | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Potential Aggregate Purchase Price | 175,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition Companys Portion Of Cost Of Acquired Entity Purchase Price | 89,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability | $ 3,900,000 | $ 700,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Contingent Consideration Term | 4 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number Of Communications Additional Sites To Be Acquired No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Business Acquisition The Companys Portion Of Cost Of Acquired Entity Purchase Price No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The adjusted total cost of the acquired entity including the cash paid to shareholders of acquired entities, fair value of debt and equity securities issued to shareholders of acquired entities, the fair value of the liabilities assumed, and direct costs of the acquisition. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Period of time after the intial closing within which the Company would be required to make a pyment to the seller. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of minority investors No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number Of Communications Sites Acquired No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Maximum number of communications sites to be acquired under agreement No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The potential total cost of the acquired entity including the cash paid to shareholders of acquired entities, fair value of debt and equity securities issued to shareholders of acquired entities, the fair value of the liabilities assumed, and direct costs of the acquisition. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of potential cash payments that could result from the contingent consideration arrangement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total cost of the acquired entity including the cash paid to shareholders of acquired entities, fair value of debt and equity securities issued to shareholders of acquired entities, the fair value of the liabilities assumed, and direct costs of the acquisition. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired in the business combination. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the amount of any change, including any differences arising upon settlement, recognized during the reporting period in the value of a liability, arising from an item of contingent consideration, assumed in a business combination. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For contingent consideration arrangements recognized in connection with a business combination, this element represents an estimate of the high-end of the potential range (undiscounted) of the consideration which may be paid. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For contingent consideration arrangements and indemnification assets recognized in connection with a business combination, this element represents an estimate of the low-end of the potential range (undiscounted) of the consideration which may be paid. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Acquisitions and Other Transactions (Schedule of Aggregate Purchase Consideration Paid and the Amount of Assets Acquired) (Details) (USD $)
|
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
South Africa Acquisition [Member]
years
|
Mar. 31, 2012
South Africa Acquisition [Member]
Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
South Africa Acquisition [Member]
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Brazil Acquisition [Member]
years
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Brazil Acquisition [Member]
Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Brazil Acquisition [Member]
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Brazil Vivo Acquisition [Member]
years
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Brazil Vivo Acquisition [Member]
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Ghana Acquisition [Member]
years
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Ghana Acquisition [Member]
Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Ghana Acquisition [Member]
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Mexico Acquisition [Member]
years
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Mexico Acquisition [Member]
Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Mexico Acquisition [Member]
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Colombia Moviles 2011 Acquisition [Member]
years
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Colombia Moviles 2011 Acquisition [Member]
Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Colombia Moviles 2011 Acquisition [Member]
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Chile Moviles Acquisition [Member]
years
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Chile Moviles Acquisition [Member]
Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Dec. 31, 2011
Chile Moviles Acquisition [Member]
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Us Acquisition 2012 [Member]
years
|
Mar. 31, 2012
Us Acquisition 2012 [Member]
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation [Member]
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Current assets | $ 12,262,000 | [1] | $ 12,262,000 | [2] | $ 9,922,000 | [1],[3] | $ 9,922,000 | [2],[3] | $ 69,878,000 | [1] | $ 69,147,000 | [2] | $ 57,414,000 | [1] | $ 57,414,000 | [2] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Non-current assets | 71,529,000 | [1] | 98,047,000 | [2] | 11,824,000 | 4,935,000 | [1] | 5,405,000 | [2] | 19,849,000 | [1] | 26,845,000 | [2] | 110,000 | [1] | 217,000 | [2] | 1,559,000 | [1] | 2,772,000 | [2] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Property and equipment | 81,052,000 | [1] | 82,225,000 | [2] | 83,539,000 | [1] | 86,062,000 | [2] | 64,281,000 | 304,478,000 | [1] | 304,478,000 | [2] | 174,767,000 | [1] | 174,767,000 | [2] | 13,526,000 | [1] | 12,456,000 | [2] | 43,293,000 | [1] | 43,140,000 | [2] | 5,128,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Intangible assets | 118,502,000 | [1],[4] | 118,781,000 | [2],[4] | 368,000,000 | [1],[5] | 288,000,000 | [2],[5] | 61,727,000 | [6] | 82,217,000 | [1],[7] | 82,217,000 | [2],[7] | 122,168,000 | [1],[8] | 97,182,000 | [2],[8] | 4,008,000 | [1],[9] | 4,675,000 | [2],[9] | 49,068,000 | [1],[10] | 39,916,000 | [10],[2] | 10,578,000 | [11] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Current liabilities | (74,000) | [1] | (74,000) | [2] | (5,536,000) | [1] | (5,536,000) | [2] | (148,000) | [1] | (148,000) | [2] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other long-term liabilities | (31,418,000) | [1] | (32,908,000) | [2] | (38,519,000) | [1],[12] | (38,519,000) | [12],[2] | (9,054,000) | (11,477,000) | [1] | (13,356,000) | [2] | (8,836,000) | [1] | (8,836,000) | [2] | (341,000) | [1] | (341,000) | [2] | (4,505,000) | [1] | (4,505,000) | [2] | (201,000) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fair value of net assets acquired | 180,324,000 | [1] | 180,286,000 | [2] | 488,935,000 | [1] | 437,976,000 | [2] | 128,778,000 | 450,031,000 | [1] | 447,891,000 | [2] | 365,214,000 | [1] | 347,224,000 | [2] | 17,303,000 | [1] | 17,007,000 | [2] | 89,415,000 | [1] | 81,323,000 | [2] | 15,505,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Goodwill | 34,159,000 | [1],[13] | 34,197,000 | [13],[2] | 96,395,000 | [1],[14] | 147,459,000 | [14],[2] | 22,952,000 | [14] | 66,346,000 | [1],[14] | 67,755,000 | [14],[2] | 51,040,000 | [1],[14] | 69,030,000 | [14],[2] | 227,000 | [1],[14] | 523,000 | [14],[2] | 5,445,000 | [1],[14] | 13,537,000 | [14],[2] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Accounts receivables | 7,700,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Customer-related intangible | 105,000,000 | 250,000,000 | 31,300,000 | 34,000,000 | 63,900,000 | 1,500,000 | 24,200,000 | 5,200,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Network location intangibles | 13,500,000 | 118,000,000 | 30,400,000 | 48,200,000 | 58,300,000 | 2,500,000 | 24,900,000 | 5,400,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Useful life of intangible assets | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination Contingent Tax Liabilities Assumed | (30,000,000) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Indemnification asset | $ (24,000,000) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to non-current assets. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Business combination contingent tax liabilities assumed. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of indemnification assets (amounts to be reimbursed if and when certain assumed liabilities are paid) recognized. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The calculated weighted-average amortization period of a major class of finite-lived intangible assets acquired during the current period either individually or as part of a group of assets (in either an asset acquisition or business combination). A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to an identifiable intangible asset that will be amortized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to current assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to receivables. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to current liabilities of the acquired entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of goodwill arising from a business combination, which is the excess of the cost of the acquired entity over the amounts assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to liabilities assumed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to property, plant and equipment to be used in ongoing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The fair value of assets acquired in noncash investing or financing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Gross carrying amount before accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date to an asset acquired in a business combination representing a favorable existing relationship with customers having a finite beneficial life. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Gross carrying amount before accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date of intangible assets not otherwise specified in the taxonomy having a reasonably expected period of economic benefit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Business Segments (Narrative) (Details)
|
3 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
|
| Number of reportable segments | 3 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
General information about (a) factors used to identify reportable segments, including the basis of organization (for example, whether management has chosen to organize the enterprise around differences in products and services, geographic areas, regulatory environments, or a combination of factors and whether operating segments have been aggregated to reportable segments) and (b) types of products and services from which each reportable segment derives its revenues. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Business Segments (Summarized Financial Information Concerning the Company's Reportable Segments) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| Segment revenues | $ 696,517 | $ 562,695 |
| Segment operating expenses | 170,524 | 135,328 |
| Interest income, TV Azteca, net | 3,543 | 3,499 |
| Segment gross margin | 529,536 | 430,866 |
| Segment selling, general, administrative and development expense | 43,653 | 37,303 |
| Segment Operating Profit | 485,883 | 393,563 |
| Stock-based compensation expense | 13,045 | 12,358 |
| Other selling, general, administrative and development expense | 23,347 | 16,471 |
| Depreciation, amortization and accretion | 149,655 | 131,231 |
| Other expense (principally interest expense and other (expense) income) | 62,248 | 70,120 |
| INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND INCOME ON EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS | 237,588 | 163,383 |
|
Rental And Management [Member]
|
||
| Segment revenues | 683,990 | 546,655 |
| Segment operating expenses | 163,527 | 127,859 |
| Interest income, TV Azteca, net | 3,543 | 3,499 |
| Segment gross margin | 524,006 | 422,295 |
| Segment selling, general, administrative and development expense | 43,295 | 35,640 |
| Segment Operating Profit | 480,711 | 386,655 |
|
Rental And Management [Member] | International [Member]
|
||
| Segment revenues | 196,928 | 129,029 |
| Segment operating expenses | 70,524 | 44,677 |
| Interest income, TV Azteca, net | 3,543 | 3,499 |
| Segment gross margin | 129,947 | 87,851 |
| Segment selling, general, administrative and development expense | 23,895 | 17,461 |
| Segment Operating Profit | 106,052 | 70,390 |
|
Rental And Management [Member] | Domestic [Member]
|
||
| Segment revenues | 487,062 | 417,626 |
| Segment operating expenses | 93,003 | 83,182 |
| Interest income, TV Azteca, net | 0 | 0 |
| Segment gross margin | 394,059 | 334,444 |
| Segment selling, general, administrative and development expense | 19,400 | 18,179 |
| Segment Operating Profit | 374,659 | 316,265 |
|
Network Development Services [Member]
|
||
| Segment revenues | 12,527 | 16,040 |
| Segment operating expenses | 6,997 | 7,469 |
| Interest income, TV Azteca, net | 0 | 0 |
| Segment gross margin | 5,530 | 8,571 |
| Segment selling, general, administrative and development expense | 358 | 1,663 |
| Segment Operating Profit | 5,172 | 6,908 |
|
Other Segment [Member]
|
||
| Stock-based compensation expense | 13,045 | 12,358 |
| Other selling, general, administrative and development expense | 23,347 | 16,471 |
| Depreciation, amortization and accretion | 149,655 | 131,231 |
| Other expense (principally interest expense and other (expense) income) | 62,248 | 70,120 |
|
OperatingExpensesMember [Member]
|
||
| Stock-based compensation expense | 500 | |
|
Selling General Administrative And Development Expense [Member]
|
||
| Stock-based compensation expense | $ 12,584 | $ 12,358 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Net Interest Income TV Azteca No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Rental and management and network development expenses No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Segment operating profit No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Segment Reporting Segment Gross Profit No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Segment selling, general, administration, and development expenses No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate net amount of depreciation, amortization, and accretion recognized during an accounting period. As a noncash item, the net amount is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income or expense before Income or Loss from equity method investments, income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents a sum total of expenses not separately reflected on the income statement for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Other generally recurring costs associated with normal operations excluding those directly related to the marketing or selling of products and services not otherwise defined. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total revenue from sale of goods and services rendered during the reporting period, in the normal course of business, reduced by sales returns and allowances, and sales discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|