Securities available for sale , equity method and direct investments (including investments in venture capital companies and nonmarketable equity securities), and unguaranteed lease residuals are subject to impairment reviews. An impairment charge is recorded if a decline in fair value below the asset's amortized cost or carrying value, depending on the nature of the asset, is deemed to be other than temporary.
Other intangible assets with finite useful lives and premises and equipment are also subject to impairment reviews if a change in circumstances indicates that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If estimated undiscounted cash flows relating to an asset held and used are less than its carrying amount, an impairment charge is recorded to the extent the fair value of the asset is less than its carrying amount. For an asset to be disposed of by sale, a loss is recorded based on the lower of the asset's carrying value or fair value less cost to sell. An asset to be disposed of other than by sale is considered held and used and accounted for as such until it is disposed of.
As of January 1, 2002, goodwill and other intangible assets which are not amortized are tested for impairment at least annually. Prior to January 1, 2002, goodwill was subject to an impairment review if a change in circumstances indicated that its carrying amount may not be recoverable.