the rationale for SFAS No.157 was that previous GAAP contained inconsistent definitions and only limited application guidance for fair value measurements . The most important aspects of SFAS No.157 are as follows :
1. A new definition of fair value
2. A fair value hierarchy used to classify the source of information used in fair value measurements ( for example , market – based or nonmarket- based )
3. New disclosures of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on their level in the hierarchy
4. A modification of the presumption that the transaction price of an asset or liability equals its initial fair value