Intangible assets
Cost related to the purchase or development of computer software that is separable from an item of related hardware is capitalized separately and amortized over the period in which it will generate benefits not exceeding five years on a straight-line basis. The Company annually reviews the estimated useful lives and salvage values of intangible assets and any changes are accounted for prospectively.
The Company records impairment charges on intangible assets used in operations when events and circumstances indicate that the assets or related cash generating unit may be impaired and the carrying amount of a long-lived asset or cash generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the higher of (i) its fair value less cost to sell, and (ii) its value in use.
The value in use calculation is based on a discounted cash flow model, using our projections of operating results for the near future. The recoverable amount of long-lived assets is sensitive to the uncertainties inherent in the preparation of projections and the discount rate used in the calculation.
For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, there were no indicators of impairment. No impairment charges were recorded in respect of the Company’s value of intangible assets.