13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Legal Matters

The Company is involved in litigation and arbitrations from time to time in the ordinary course of business. The Company does not believe that the outcome of any such pending or threatened litigation will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations. However, as is inherent in legal proceedings, there is a risk that an unpredictable decision adverse to the company could be reached. The Company records legal costs associated with loss contingencies as incurred. Settlements are accrued when, and if, they become probable and estimable.

Commitments

The Company leases office space in New York City under an operating lease which expires on August 31, 2020. Rent expense for this property was $51,781 and $69,962 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, net of expense allocation to affiliates.