(cid:2)(cid:3)(cid:4)(cid:5)ANNUAL(cid:6)REPORT Cousins Properties Incorporated DEAR(cid:6) SHAREHOLDERS(cid:7) Let me begin this year’s le(cid:8)er by first extending my sincere gratitude to my fellow teammates for their tireless work and unwavering commitment during this historic year at Cousins Properties. In addition to the strength of our markets and the quality of our portfolio, I believe it is our talented and dedicated team which enabled Cousins to generate tremendous performance in 2016. I’m extremely proud of our success and enthusiastic about our future as a company. Executing the Strategy Cousins remains commi(cid:8)ed to our long-term strategy: simple platform, trophy assets and opportunistic investments. I believe the successful execution of this unique strategy ultimately provided Cousins with the platform and financial capability to complete the most unique and transformative transaction Cousins has seen in its 58 year history – the Cousins/Parkway merger and spin-off. Taking a look back, we started down this path in early 2012 with very intentional strategic initiatives. First, we decided to streamline our business model to focus on what Cousins has historically done best – develop, own and operate Class-A office assets. Second, we focused on the Sun Belt, a geographic area which continues to experience some of the most dynamic and robust demographic and economic trends as compared to the broader US market. Drilling down further, we identified specific high-growth and supply-constrained urban submarkets within those Sun Belt cities and began to selectively assemble a trophy portfolio of top-tier assets in these prime infill locations. Importantly, while we focused on simplifying our platform and upgrading our portfolio, we significantly reduced our leverage, resulting in one of the best balance sheets among the REIT universe. Today, Cousins owns and operates 16.2 million square feet of Class-A office assets in Atlanta, Austin, Charlo(cid:8)e, Tempe, Tampa and Orlando. Only seven out of the 31 office assets we own today were part of Cousins’ operating portfolio in January 2012, and only 48% of our NOI came from urban office assets then, as compared to approximately 80% today. And finally, as a result of the successful execution of our recycling efforts, our property NOI has increased 187% in that time, while our total square footage only increased by 35%. 2016 Performance 2016 marked a pivotal point in the execution of our long-term strategy. Most notably, Cousins completed the transformative merger and spin-off with Parkway Properties. While these transactions were complex in nature and ultimately well-executed by both teams, I’m most impressed that they were accomplished while the Cousins team continued to deliver exceptional operating results. Specifically, the team achieved the following: • We completed approximately 2.4 million square feet of new and renewal leases. • We increased same property net operating income by 8.4% on a cash basis. • We increased second generation net rent per square foot by 10.3% on a cash basis. • We commenced construction on 750,000 square feet of office projects totaling $286 million. • We purchased Teachers Retirement Systems of Texas’ equity interest in Fund II, which included the Hayden Ferry buildings in Tempe and 3344 Peachtree in Buckhead, for $279 million. • We sold $662 million in non-core assets and land. • We maintained an industry-leading balance sheet with a net debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 5.2 times, which is well below the office average of 6.8 times according to SNL. Cousins and its shareholders were rewarded for these outstanding accomplishments in 2016 through strong share price performance. Specifically, total shareholder return in 2016 for Cousins was 28.39% while total returns in 2016 for the SNL US REIT Office Index and the S&P 500 were 11.59% and 11.96%, respectively. 2017 Opportunities Cousins is remarkably positioned for strong execution in 2017 with a proven strategy, a trophy portfolio and a conservative balance sheet. Going forward, we plan to take our solid platform and focus on optimizing our operating and leasing capabilities while remaining dedicated to providing an exceptional work environment and differentiated experience for our customers. With a market leading position in Buckhead Atlanta, the Austin CBD, Uptown Charlo(cid:8)e and the Tempe submarket of Phoenix, and with a significant footprint in the Westshore submarket of Tampa and the Orlando CBD, we have flexibility to meet new customer demand and existing customer space needs quickly. I believe owning a critical mass of trophy assets in the most sought-a(cid:11)er submarkets in the Sun Belt is a powerful element of our strategy. It is this unique factor, along with our focus on customer service, which I believe will drive retention, rent growth and occupancy over time. Next, we will continue to pursue and execute on investment opportunities. With over 50 years of development expertise, I believe we have created and continue to create significant value for our shareholders. Today, we have approximately 1.4 million square feet of office, of which 84% is leased, as well as 60,000 square feet of retail and 246 apartments under construction totaling $512 million of investment commitment. In addition to our current developments, we will look to secure strategic land sites in our core markets in anticipation of the next development cycle, as well as entertain potential build-to-suit opportunities. We are mindful, however, that development requires the Company to take on an additional level of risk. During this cycle, we’ve managed this risk by limiting our development efforts as a percentage of our total asset base and by maintaining low leverage. Going forward, we will continue to pair our prudent investment philosophy with a conservative balance sheet. This disciplined approach put Cousins in an exceptional position to pursue the opportunity with Parkway in 2016, and it is my belief it will once again prove valuable. In closing, 2016 was an extraordinary year. I am so proud of the success we have achieved but even more proud of how we achieved it. By staying true to the core values and guiding principles upon which Cousins was founded, we are striving to create long-term value for you, our esteemed shareholders, while providing excellent service to our customers. We will remain dedicated to recognizing and then executing on the opportunities that will reward your continued trust and loyalty. On behalf of everyone at Cousins, we thank you for your ongoing support and confidence in our future efforts. Sincerely, Larry L. Gellerstedt III President and Chief Executive Officer UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-K (cid:58) ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 or (cid:133) TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from to Commission file number 001-11312 COUSINS PROPERTIES INCORPORATED (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Georgia (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) 191 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 500, Atlanta, Georgia (Address of principal executive offices) 58-0869052 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) 30303-1740 (Zip Code) (404) 407-1000 (Registrant’s telephone number, including area code) Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Title of each class Common Stock ($1 par value) Name of Exchange on which registered New York Stock Exchange Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes (cid:58) No (cid:133) Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. Yes (cid:133) No (cid:58) Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes (cid:58) No (cid:133) Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes (cid:58) No (cid:133) Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. (cid:58) Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one): Large accelerated filer (cid:58) Non-accelerated filer (cid:133) (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) Accelerated filer (cid:133) Smaller reporting company (cid:133) Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes (cid:133) No (cid:58) As of June 30, 2016, the aggregate market value of the common stock of Cousins Properties Incorporated held by non-affiliates was $2,054,466,742 based on the closing sales price as reported on the New York Stock Exchange. As of February 9, 2017, 393,648,519 shares of common stock were outstanding. DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Portions of the Registrant’s proxy statement for the annual stockholders meeting to be held on April 25, 2017 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K. T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S P A R T I Item 1. Business Item 1A. Risk Factors Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments Item 2. Properties Item 3. Legal Proceedings Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures Item X. Executive Officers of the Registrant Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Stock and Related Stockholder Matters P A R T I I Item 6. Selected Financial Data Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure Item 9A. Controls and Procedures Item 9B. Other Information Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance P A R T I I I Item 11. Executive Compensation Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules P A R T I V SIGNATURES 1 3 14 14 18 18 18 19 20 22 36 38 39 39 41 41 41 41 42 42 42 48 F O R W A R D - L O O K I N G S T A T E M E N T S Certain matters contained in this report are “forward- looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws and are subject to uncertainties and risks, as itemized in Item 1A included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 and as itemized herein. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of the business and our financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans, and objectives. They also include, among other things, statements regarding subjects that are forward- looking by their nature, such as: – – – – – – – – our business and financial strategy; our ability to obtain future financing arrangements; future acquisitions and operating assets; future acquisitions of land; future dispositions of future development and redevelopment opportunities; future dispositions of land and other non-core assets; future issuances and repurchases of common stock; projected operating results; – market and industry trends; – – – – – – future distributions; projected capital expenditures; interest rates; the impact of the transactions involving us, Parkway Properties, Inc. (“New Parkway”), including future financial and operating results, plans, objectives, expectations and intentions; (“Parkway”) and Parkway, Inc. operating performance, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future — including statements relating to creating value for stockholders; impact of the transactions with Parkway and New Parkway on tenants, employees, stockholders and other constituents of the combined company; and – integrating Parkway with us. statements forward-looking Any are based upon management’s beliefs, assumptions, and expectations of our future performance, taking into account information currently available. These beliefs, assumptions, and expectations may change as a result of possible events or factors, not all of which are known. If a change occurs, our business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations may vary materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements. Actual results may vary from forward-looking statements due to, but not limited to, the following: – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – the availability and terms of capital and financing; the ability to refinance or repay indebtedness as it matures; the failure of purchase, sale, or other contracts to ultimately close; the failure to achieve anticipated benefits from acquisitions and investments or from dispositions; the potential dilutive effect of common or preferred stock offerings; the impact of future financing arrangements including secured and unsecured indebtedness; the failure to achieve benefits from the repurchase of common stock; the availability of buyers and pricing with respect to the disposition of assets; risks and uncertainties related to national and local economic conditions, the real estate industry in general, and the commercial real estate markets in particular; changes to our strategy with regard to land and other non-core holdings that require impairment losses to be recognized; leasing risks, including the ability to obtain new tenants or renew expiring tenants, the ability to lease newly developed and/or recently acquired space, and the risk of declining leasing rates; the adverse change in the financial condition of one or more of our major tenants; volatility in interest rates and insurance rates; competition from other developers or investors; the risks associated with real estate developments (such as zoning approval, receipt of required permits, construction delays, cost overruns, and leasing risk); the loss of key personnel; the potential liability for uninsured losses, condemnation, or environmental issues; liability the potential regulatory requirements; for a failure to meet the financial condition and liquidity of, or disputes with, joint venture partners; any failure to comply with debt covenants under credit agreements; any failure to continue to qualify for taxation as a real estate investment trust and meet regulatory requirements; the ability to successfully integrate our operations and employees in connection with the transactions with Parkway and New Parkway; – – – the ability to realize anticipated benefits and synergies of the transactions with Parkway and New Parkway; risks associated with litigation resulting from the transactions with Parkway and from liabilities or contingent liabilities assumed in the transactions with Parkway and New Parkway; risks associated with any errors or omissions in financial or other information of Parkway that has been previously provided to the public; – material changes in the dividend rates on securities or the ability to pay dividends on common shares or other securities; – – – – potential changes to tax legislation; potential changes to state, local or federal regulations applicable to our business; changes in demand for properties; risks associated with the acquisition, development, expansion, leasing and management of properties; – – – significant condemnation, or environmental issues; related costs to uninsured losses, the amount of the costs, fees, expenses and charges related to the transactions with Parkway; and those additional risks and factors discussed in reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) by us. The words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “plans,” “may,” “intend,” “will,” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although we believe that our plans, intentions, and expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that such plans, intentions, or expectations will be achieved. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of future events, new information, or otherwise, except as required under U.S. federal securities laws. P A R T I I T E M 1 . B U S I N E S S Corporate Profile Cousins Properties Incorporated (the “Registrant” or “Cousins”) is a Georgia corporation, which has elected to be taxed as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”). Through October 5, 2016, Cousins conducted all of its business on its own account or through wholly or partially owned entities, some of which were consolidated with Cousins and some of which were not consolidated and were accounted for under the equity method. One of the consolidated entities was Cousins TRS Services LLC (“CTRS”), a taxable entity which owns and manages its own real estate portfolio and performs certain real estate related services for other parties. In connection with a series of transactions with Parkway Properties, Inc. (“Parkway”) and Parkway, Inc. (“New Parkway”), including a merger and spin-off, Cousins Properties LP (“CPLP”) was formed. On October 6, 2016, the closing date of the merger with Parkway, Cousins contributed, or caused to be contributed, substantially all of Parkway’s and Cousins’ assets and liabilities not pertaining to the ownership of real properties in Houston, Texas to CPLP, including CTRS, and began conducting substantially all of its operations through CPLP. Cousins owns approximately 98% of CPLP, and CPLP is consolidated with Cousins. On October 7, 2016, the closing date of the spin-off of New Parkway, Cousins contributed all of Cousins’ assets and liabilities pertaining to the ownership of real properties in Houston, Texas, to a subsidiary of New Parkway. Cousins, CPLP, their subsidiaries and CTRS combined are hereafter referred to as “we,” “us,” “our” and the “Company.” Our common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “CUZ.” Our operations are conducted through a number of segments based on our method of internal reporting, which classifies operations by property type and geographical area. For financial information related to each of our operating segments, see note 18 to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Company Strategy Our strategy is to create value for our stockholders through the acquisition, development, ownership, and management of Class A office assets and opportunistic mixed-use developments in Sunbelt markets, with a particular focus on Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, Florida, and Arizona. This strategy is based on a simple platform, trophy assets, opportunistic investments, and a strong balance sheet. This approach enables us to maintain a targeted, asset-specific approach to investing where we seek to leverage our acquisition and development skills, relationships, market knowledge, and operational expertise. 2016 Activities Our 2016 activities were highlighted by the merger with Parkway and simultaneous spin-off of the combined companies’ Houston business into a separate public company, New Parkway. As a result of the merger and spin-off and as a result of the activities listed below, we added, on a net basis, 16 properties and 1.6 million square feet of space to our pre-merger portfolio. We added properties in our existing markets of Atlanta, Charlotte, and Austin and added properties in new markets including Phoenix, Tampa, and Orlando. After the merger and spin-off but before December 31, 2016, we executed a series of transactions associated with the new properties and new entities that we acquired in the merger with Parkway. These transactions included the following: – – – – Sold Two Liberty Place, a 941,000 square-foot office building in Philadelphia for gross proceeds of $219 million. Two Liberty Place was acquired in the merger with Parkway and was owned in a joint venture in which the Company had a 19% interest. Sold Lincoln Place, a 140,000 square-foot office building in Miami, for gross proceeds of $80 million. Sold The Forum, a 220,000 square-foot office building in Atlanta, for gross proceeds of $70 million. Purchased Teachers Retirement Systems of Texas’ equity interest in Fund II for $279 million. Fund II was comprised of cash from the recent sale of Two Liberty Place in Philadelphia as well as the Hayden Ferry buildings in Phoenix and 3344 Peachtree in Atlanta. Cousins now owns 100% of these buildings. Simultaneously with this purchase, the mortgages secured by Hayden Ferry were repaid and the associated interest rate swaps were terminated. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 1 – – Executed an agreement with American Airlines to terminate their full building lease in Phoenix and simultaneously executed an 11-year lease with ADP to backfill the entire building. As part of the agreement, Cousins will purchase American Airlines’ 25% ownership interest in the building for $19.6 million during the first quarter of 2017. Repaid two mortgages totaling $55 million secured by Citrus Center in Orlando and Corporate Center IV in Tampa. In addition, during 2016, we engaged in other activities that were not directly related to the merger and spin-off with Parkway and New Parkway. The following is a summary of these activities: I N V E S T M E N T AC T I V I T Y – Entered into a 50-50 joint venture named DC Charlotte Plaza LLLP between the Company and Dimensional Fund Advisors (“DFA”) for the purpose of developing and constructing a 282,000 square foot building which will serve as DFA’s regional headquarters building in Charlotte with a total estimated cost of $94 million. The joint venture entered into a 16-year, build-to-suit lease with DFA. – – Commenced development of 8000 Avalon, a 224,000 square foot office building in Atlanta with a total estimated cost of $73 million. The project is owned by HICO Avalon LLC, a joint venture in which the Company has a 90% interest. Signed a 16-year, build-to-suit lease with NCR its world Corporation for the second phase of headquarters in Atlanta. Phase II of this development is comprised of a 260,000 square foot office building with a total estimated cost of $119 million. D I S P O S I T I O N AC T I V I T Y – Sold 100 North Point Center East, a 129,000 square foot office building in Atlanta, for a gross sales price of $22.0 million. – Sold One Ninety One Peachtree, a 1.2 million square foot office building in Atlanta, for a gross sales price of $267.5 million. F I N A N C I N G AC T I V I T Y – Closed two, 10-year mortgages secured by Fifth Third Center and Colorado Tower that generated $270 million in proceeds at a weighted average interest rate of 3.41%. Closed a five-year, $250 million senior unsecured term loan. – 2 P O R T FO L I O AC T I V I T Y – Leased or renewed 2.4 million square feet of office space. – – Increased second generation net rent per square foot by 20.0% on a straight-line basis and 10.3% on a cash basis. Increased same property net operating income by 6.1% on a GAAP basis and 8.4% on a cash basis. Environmental Matters Our business operations are subject to various federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations governing land, water, and wetlands resources. Among these are certain laws and regulations under which an owner or operator of real estate could become liable for the costs of removal or remediation of certain hazardous or toxic substances present on or in such property. Such laws often impose liability without regard to whether the owner knew of, or was responsible for, the presence of such hazardous or toxic substances. The presence of such substances, or the failure to properly remediate such substances, may subject the owner to substantial liability and may adversely affect the owner’s ability to develop the property or to borrow using such real estate as collateral. liability through We typically manage this potential performance of Phase I Environmental Site Assessments and, as necessary, Phase II environmental sampling, on properties we acquire or develop, although no assurance can be given that environmental liabilities do not exist, that the reports revealed all environmental liabilities, or that no prior owner (including Parkway, where applicable) created any material environmental condition not known to us. In certain situations, we have also sought to avail ourselves of legal and regulatory protections offered by federal and state authorities to prospective purchasers of property. Where applicable studies have resulted in the determination that remediation was required by applicable law, the necessary remediation is typically incorporated into the acquisition or development activity of the relevant property. We are not aware of any environmental liability that we believe would have a material adverse effect on our business, assets, or results of operations. Certain environmental laws impose liability on a previous owner of a property to the extent that hazardous or toxic substances were present during the prior ownership period. A transfer of the property does not necessarily relieve an owner of such liability. Thus, although we are not aware of any such situation, we may have such liabilities on properties previously sold. We believe that we and our properties are in compliance in all material respects with applicable federal, C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations governing the environment. Competition We compete with other real estate owners with similar properties located in our markets and distinguish ourselves to tenants/buyers primarily on the basis of location, rental rates/sales prices, services provided, reputation, and the design and condition of the facilities. We also compete with other real estate companies, financial institutions, pension funds, partnerships, individual investors, and others when attempting to acquire and develop properties. Executive Offices; Employees Our executive offices are located at 191 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 500, Atlanta, Georgia 30303-1740. On December 31, 2016, we employed 279 people. Available Information We make available free of charge on the “Investor Relations” page of our website, www.cousinsproperties.com, our furnished reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K, and all amendments filed and thereto, as soon as reasonably practicable after the reports are filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Our Corporate Governance Guidelines, Director Independence Standards, Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, and the Charters of the Audit Committee, the Investment Committee, and the Compensation, Succession, Nominating and Governance Committee of the Board of Directors are also available on the “Investor Relations” page of our website. The information contained on our website is not incorporated herein by reference. Copies of these documents (without exhibits, when applicable) are also available free of charge upon request to us at 191 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 500, Atlanta, Georgia 30303-1740, Attention: Investor Relations or by telephone at (404) 407-1898 or by facsimile at (404) 407-1899. In addition, the SEC maintains a website that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers, including us, that file electronically with the SEC at www.sec.gov. I T E M 1 A . R I S K F A C T O R S Set forth below are the risks we believe investors should consider carefully in evaluating an investment in the securities of Cousins Properties Incorporated. G E N E R A L R I S K S O F OW N I N G A N D O P E R AT I N G R E A L E S TAT E Our ownership of commercial real estate involves a number of risks, the effects of which could adversely affect our business. General economic and market risks. Our assets are subject to general economic and market risks. As such, in a general economic decline or recessionary climate, our assets may not generate sufficient cash to pay expenses, service debt, or cover maintenance, and, as a result, our results of operations and cash flows may be adversely affected. Factors that may adversely affect the economic performance and value of our properties include, among other things: – – changes economic climate; in the national, regional, and local local real estate conditions such as an oversupply of rentable space or a reduction in demand for rentable space; – – – – – the attractiveness of our properties to tenants or buyers; competition from other available properties; in market related rental changes concessions granted to tenants including, but not limited to, free rent, tenant allowances, and tenant improvement allowances; rates and uninsured losses as a result of casualty events; and the need re-lease buildings. to periodically repair, renovate, and Uncertain economic conditions may adversely impact current tenants in our various markets and, accordingly, could affect their ability to pay rents owed to us pursuant to their leases. In periods of economic uncertainty, tenants are more likely to close less profitable locations and/or to declare bankruptcy; and, pursuant to various bankruptcy laws, leases may be rejected and thereby terminated. Furthermore, our ability to sell or lease our properties at favorable rates, or at all, may be negatively impacted by general or local economic conditions. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 3 Our ability to collect rent from tenants may affect our ability to pay for adequate maintenance, insurance, and other operating costs (including real estate taxes). Also, the expense of owning and operating a property is not necessarily reduced when circumstances such as market factors cause a reduction in income from the property. If a property is mortgaged and we are unable to meet the mortgage payments, the lender could foreclose on the mortgage and take title to the property. In addition, interest rate levels, availability of financing, changes in laws, and governmental regulations (including those governing usage, zoning, and taxes) may adversely affect our financial condition. Impairment risks. We regularly review our real estate assets for impairment; and based on these reviews, we may record impairment losses that have an adverse effect on our results of operations. Negative or uncertain market and economic conditions, as well as market volatility, increase the likelihood of incurring impairment losses. If we decide to sell a real estate asset rather than holding it for long term investment or if we reduce our estimates of future cash flows on a real estate asset, the risk of impairment increases. The magnitude and frequency with which these charges occur could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Leasing risk. Our operating revenues are dependent upon entering into leases with, and collecting rents from, our tenants. Tenants whose leases are expiring may want to decrease the space they lease and/or may be unwilling to continue their lease. When leases expire or are terminated, replacement tenants may not be available upon acceptable terms and market rental rates may be lower than the previous contractual rental rates. Also, our tenants may approach us for additional concessions in order to remain open and operating. The granting of these concessions may adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows to the extent that they result in reduced rental rates, additional capital improvements, or allowances paid to, or on behalf of, the tenants. Tenant and property concentration risk. As of December 31, 2016, our top 20 tenants represented 30% of our annualized base rental revenues with no single tenant accounting for more than 6% of our annualized base rent. The inability of any of our significant tenants to pay rent or a decision by a significant tenant to vacate their premises prior to, or at the conclusion of, their lease term could have a significant negative impact on our results of operations or financial condition if a suitable replacement tenant is not secured in a timely manner. These events could have a significant adverse impact on our results of operations or financial condition. For the three months ended December 31, 2016, 42% of our net operating income was derived from the metropolitan Atlanta area, 18% was derived from the metropolitan Charlotte area and 17% was derived from the metropolitan Austin area. Any adverse economic conditions impacting Austin, Charlotte, or Atlanta could adversely affect our overall results of operations and financial condition. Uninsured losses and condemnation costs. Accidents, earthquakes, terrorism incidents, and other losses at our properties could adversely affect our operating results. Casualties may occur that significantly damage an operating property, and insurance proceeds may be less than the total loss incurred by us. Although we, or our joint venture partners where applicable, maintain casualty insurance under policies we believe to be adequate and appropriate, including rent loss insurance on operating properties, some types of losses, such as those related to the termination of longer-term leases and other contracts, generally are not insured. Certain types of insurance may not be available or may be available on terms that could result in large uninsured losses. Property ownership also involves potential liability to third parties for such matters as personal injuries occurring on the property. Such losses may not be fully insured. In addition to uninsured losses, various government authorities may condemn all or parts of operating properties. Such condemnations could adversely affect the viability of such projects. Environmental issues. Environmental issues that arise at our properties could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Federal, state, and local laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment may require a current or previous owner or operator of real estate to investigate and clean up hazardous or toxic substances or petroleum product releases at a property. If determined to be liable, the owner or operator may have to pay a governmental entity or third parties for property damage and for investigation and clean-up costs incurred by such parties in connection with the contamination, or perform such investigation and clean-up itself. Although certain legal protections may be available to prospective purchasers of property, these laws typically impose clean-up responsibility and liability without regard to whether the owner or operator knew of or caused the presence of the regulated substances. Even if more than one person may have been responsible for the release of regulated substances at the property, each person covered by the environmental laws may be held responsible for all of the clean-up costs incurred. In addition, third parties may sue the owner or operator of a site for damages and costs resulting from regulated substances emanating from that site. We are not 4 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T currently aware of any environmental liabilities at locations that we believe could have a material adverse effect on our business, assets, financial condition, or results of operations. Unidentified environmental liabilities could arise, however, and could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Joint venture structure risks. Similar to other real estate companies, we have interests in various joint ventures (including partnerships and limited liability companies) and may in the future invest in real estate through such structures. Our venture partners may have rights to take actions over which we have no control, or the right to withhold approval of actions that we propose, either of which could adversely affect our interests in the related joint ventures, and in some cases, our overall financial condition and results of operations. These structures involve participation by other parties whose interests and rights may not be the same as ours. For example, a venture partner might have economic and/or other business interests or goals which are incompatible with our business interests or goals and that venture partner may be in a position to take action contrary to our interests. In addition, such venture partners may default on their obligations, which could have an adverse impact on the financial condition and operations of the joint venture. Such defaults may result in our fulfilling their obligations that may, in some cases, require us to contribute additional capital to the ventures. Furthermore, the success of a project may be dependent upon the expertise, business judgment, diligence, and effectiveness of our venture partners in matters that are outside our control. Thus, the involvement of venture partners could adversely impact the development, operation, ownership, financing, or disposition of the underlying properties. Liquidity risk. Real estate investments are relatively illiquid and can be difficult to sell and convert to cash quickly. As a result, our ability to sell one or more of our properties, whether in response to any changes in economic or other conditions or in response to a change in strategy, may be limited. In the event we want to sell a property, we may not be able to do so in the desired time period, the sales price of the property may not meet our expectations or requirements, and we may be required to record an impairment loss on the property as a result. Compliance or failure to comply with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements could result in substantial costs. Our properties are subject to various federal, state, and local regulatory requirements, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and state and local fire, health, and life safety requirements. Compliance with these regulations may involve upfront expenditures and/or ongoing costs. If we fail to comply with these requirements, we could incur fines or other monetary damages. We do not know whether existing requirements will change or whether compliance with existing or future requirements will require significant unanticipated expenditures that will affect our cash flows and results of operations. F I N A N C I N G R I S K S At certain times, interest rates and other market conditions for obtaining capital are unfavorable, and, as a result, we may be unable to raise the capital needed to invest in acquisition or development opportunities, maintain our properties, or otherwise satisfy our commitments on a timely basis, or we may be forced to raise capital at a higher cost or under restrictive terms, which could adversely affect returns on our investments, our cash flows, and results of operations. We generally finance our acquisition and development projects through one or more of the following: our unsecured credit facility (“Credit Facility”), unsecured debt, non-recourse mortgages, construction loans, the sale of assets, joint venture equity, the issuance of common stock, and the issuance of units of CPLP. Each of these sources may be constrained from time to time because of market conditions, and the related cost of raising this capital may be unfavorable at any given point in time. These sources of capital, and the risks associated with each, include the following: – Credit Facility. Terms and conditions available in the marketplace for unsecured credit facilities vary over time. We can provide no assurance that the amount we need from our Credit Facility will be available at any given time, or at all, or that the rates and fees charged by the lenders will be reasonable. We incur interest under our Credit Facility at a variable rate. Variable rate debt creates higher debt service requirements if market interest rates increase, which would adversely affect our cash flow and results of operations. Our Credit Facility contains customary restrictions, requirements and other limitations on our ability to incur indebtedness, including restrictions on unsecured debt outstanding, restrictions on secured recourse debt outstanding, and requirements to maintain minimum fixed charge coverage ratios. Our continued ability to borrow under our Credit Facility is subject to compliance with these covenants. – Unsecured Debt. Terms and conditions available in the marketplace for unsecured debt vary over time. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 5 The availability of unsecured debt may vary based upon the lending environment with financial institutions. Unsecured debt generally contains restrictive covenants that may place limitations on our ability to conduct our business similar to those placed upon us by our Credit Facility. – Non-recourse mortgages. The availability of non-recourse mortgages is dependent upon various conditions, including the willingness of mortgage lenders to lend at any given point in time. Interest rates and loan-to-value ratios may also be volatile, and we may from time to time elect not to proceed with mortgage financing due to unfavorable terms offered by lenders. An inability to access the mortgage market could adversely affect our ability to finance acquisition activities. In addition, if a property is mortgaged to secure payment of indebtedness and we are unable to make the mortgage payments, the lender may foreclose. Further, at the time a mortgage matures, the property may be worth less than the mortgage amount and, as a result, we may determine not to refinance the mortgage and permit foreclosure, potentially generating defaults on other debt. Asset sales. Real estate markets tend to experience market cycles. Because of such cycles, the potential terms and conditions of sales, including prices, may be unfavorable for extended periods of time. In addition, our status as a REIT limits our ability to sell properties, which may affect our ability to liquidate an investment. As a result, our ability to raise capital through asset sales in order could be limited. In addition, mortgage financing on an asset may prohibit prepayment and/ or impose a prepayment penalty upon the sale of that property, which may decrease the proceeds from a sale or refinancing or make the sale or refinancing impractical. Construction loans. Construction loans generally relate to specific assets under construction and fund costs above an initial equity amount deemed acceptable by the lender. Terms and conditions of construction facilities vary, but they generally carry a term of two to five years, charge interest at variable rates, require the lender to be satisfied with the nature and amount of construction costs prior to funding, and require the lender to be satisfied with the level of pre-leasing prior to funding. Construction loans frequently require a portion of the loan to be recourse to us. In addition, construction loans generally require a completion guarantee by the borrower and may require a limited guarantee from the Company. There may be times when construction loans are not available, or are only available upon – – 6 – – unfavorable terms, which could have an adverse effect on our ability to fund development projects or on our ability to achieve the returns we expect. Joint ventures. Joint ventures, including partnerships or limited liability companies, tend to be complex arrangements, and there are only a limited number of parties willing to undertake such investment structures. There is no guarantee that we will be able to undertake these ventures at the times we need capital. Common stock. Common stock issuances may have a dilutive effect on our earnings per share and funds from operations per share. The actual amount of dilution, if any, from any future offering of common stock will be based on numerous factors, particularly the use of proceeds and any return generated. The per share trading price of our common stock could decline as a result of sales of a large number of shares of our common stock in the market in connection with an offering, or otherwise, or as a result of the perception or expectation that such sales could occur. We can also provide no assurance that conditions will be favorable for future issuances of common stock when we need the capital. – Operating partnership units. The issuance of units of CPLP in connection with property, portfolio, or business acquisitions could be dilutive to our earnings per share and could have an adverse effect on the per share trading price of our common stock. – TPG Entities’ shares. The per share trading price of our common stock may decline significantly upon the sale of shares of our common stock pursuant to registration rights granted to TPG Pantera VI and TPG Management LLC (collectively, the “TPG Entities”) in connection with the Company Stockholders Agreement with the TPG Entities (the “TPG Agreement”). Under the TPG Agreement, the TPG Entities may (1) at any time after April 6, 2017, make up to three demands for registration and (2) at any time after October 6, 2017, include the common stock they hold in any registration statement we file on account of any of our other security holders. The shares of common stock that may be registered on behalf of the TPG Entities, as described above, represent approximately 9% of our issued and outstanding common stock and of our issued and outstanding common stock and limited voting stock as of December 31, 2016. As a result, a substantial number of shares may be sold pursuant to the registration rights granted to the TPG Entities. The sale of such shares by the TPG Entities, or the perception that such a sale may C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T occur, could materially and adversely affect the per share trading price of our common stock and could dilute our existing stockholders’ interests in our company. Covenants contained in our Credit Facility, term loans and mortgages could restrict or hinder our operational flexibility, which could adversely affect our results of operations. As a result of any additional indebtedness incurred to consummate investment activities, we may experience a potential material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. The incurrence of new indebtedness could have adverse consequences on our business, such as: – – – – – – – – – requiring us to use a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to service our indebtedness, which would reduce the available cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, development projects, and other general corporate purposes and reduce cash for distributions; limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund our working capital needs, acquisitions, capital expenditures, or other debt service requirements or for other purposes; increasing our exposure to floating interest rates; limiting our ability to compete with other companies who are not as highly leveraged, as we may be less capable of responding to adverse economic and industry conditions; restricting us from making strategic acquisitions, developing exploiting business opportunities; properties, or restricting the way in which we conduct our business financial and operating because of covenants in the agreements governing our existing and future indebtedness; exposing us to potential events of default (if not cured or waived) under covenants contained in our debt instruments that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results; increasing our vulnerability to a downturn in general economic conditions; and limiting our ability to react to changing market conditions in our industry. The impact of any of these potential adverse consequences could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. Our Credit Facility and our unsecured term loan impose financial and operating covenants on us. These covenants may be modified from time to time, but covenants of this type typically include restrictions and limitations on our ability to incur debt, as well as limitations on the amount of our unsecured debt and on the amount of joint venture activity in which we may engage. These covenants may limit our flexibility in making business decisions. If we fail to comply with these covenants, our ability to borrow may be impaired, which could potentially make it more difficult to fund our capital and operating needs. Our failure to comply with such covenants could cause a default, and we may then be required to repay our outstanding debt with capital from other sources. Under those circumstances, other sources of capital may not be available to us or may be available only on unattractive terms, which could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, the cross default provisions on the Credit Facility and term loan may affect business decisions on other debt. Some of our mortgages contain customary negative covenants, including limitations on our ability, without the lender’s prior consent, to further mortgage that a specific property, to enter into new leases, to modify existing leases, or to sell the property. Compliance with these covenants and requirements could harm our operational flexibility and financial condition. Our degree of leverage could limit our ability to obtain additional the market price of our securities. financing or affect Total debt as a percentage of either total asset value or total market capitalization and our total debt as a multiple of our annualized EBITDA is often used by analysts to gauge the financial health of equity REITs such as us. If our degree of leverage is viewed unfavorably by lenders or potential joint venture partners, it could affect our ability to obtain additional financing. In general, our degree of leverage could also make us more vulnerable to a downturn in business or the economy. In addition, increases in our debt to market capitalization ratio, which is in part a function of our stock price, or to other measures of asset value used by financial analysts may have an adverse effect on the market price of common stock. We have significant debt maturities in 2017 that need to be repaid or refinanced. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 7 As a result of the Parkway Transactions, we assumed four non-recourse mortgage loans with an aggregate principal amount of $360.0 million that mature in 2017. In addition, we have one additional non-recourse mortgage loan with a principal balance of $127.5 million that matures in 2017. We expect to repay these loans when they mature with a combination of sources of capital including, but not limited to, asset sales, unsecured term loans, mortgage loans on these or other properties, or common equity. However, there can be no assurance that these sources will be available and we may be forced to refinance or repay on unfavorable terms. R E A L E S TAT E D E V E LO P M E N T A N D ACQ U I S I T I O N R I S K S We face risks associated with the development of real estate, such as delay, cost overruns, and the possibility that we are unable to lease a portion of the space that we build, which could adversely affect our results. Development activities contain certain inherent risks. Although we seek to minimize risks from commercial development through various management controls and procedures, development risks cannot be eliminated. Some of the key factors affecting development of commercial property are as follows: The availability of sufficient development opportunities. Absence of sufficient development opportunities could result in our experiencing slower growth in earnings and cash flows. Development opportunities are dependent upon a wide variety of factors. Availability of these opportunities can be volatile as a result of, among other things, economic conditions and product supply/ demand characteristics in a particular market. Abandoned predevelopment costs. The development process inherently requires that a large number of opportunities be pursued with only a few actually being developed. We may incur significant costs for predevelopment activity for projects that are later abandoned, which would directly affect our results of operations. For projects that are later abandoned, we must expense certain costs, such as salaries, that would have otherwise been capitalized. We have procedures and controls in place that are intended to minimize this risk, but it is likely that we will incur predevelopment expense on subsequently abandoned projects on an ongoing basis. Project costs. Construction and leasing of a project involves a variety of costs that cannot always be identified at the beginning of a project. Costs may arise that have not been anticipated or actual costs may exceed estimated costs. These additional costs can be – – – 8 – – significant and could adversely impact our return on a project and the expected results of operations upon completion of the project. Also, construction costs vary over time based upon many factors, including the cost of building materials. We attempt to mitigate the risk of unanticipated increases in construction costs on our development projects through guaranteed maximum price contracts and pre-ordering of certain materials, but we may be adversely affected by increased construction costs on our current and future projects. Construction delays. Real estate development carries the risk that the project could be delayed due to a number of issues that may arise including, but not limited to, weather and other forces of nature, availability of materials, availability of skilled labor, and the financial health of general contractors or sub-contractors. Construction delays could cause adverse financial impacts to us which could include higher interest and other carrying costs than originally budgeted, monetary penalties from tenants pursuant to their leases, and higher construction costs. Delays could also result in a violation of terms of construction loans that could increase fees, interest, or trigger additional recourse of the loan to us. Leasing risk. The success of a commercial real estate development project is heavily dependent upon entering into leases with acceptable terms within a predefined lease-up period. Although our policy is to achieve pre- leasing goals (which vary by market, product type, and circumstances) before committing to a project, it is expected that not all the space in a project will be leased at the time we commit to the project. If the additional space is not leased on schedule and upon the expected terms and conditions, our returns, future earnings, and results of operations from the project could be adversely impacted. Whether or not tenants are willing to enter into leases on the terms and conditions we project and on the timetable we expect will depend upon a number of factors, many of which are outside our control. These factors may include: – – – general business conditions in the local or broader economy or in the prospective tenants’ industries; supply and demand conditions for space in the marketplace; and level of competition in the marketplace. – Reputation risks. We have historically developed and managed a significant portion of our real estate portfolio and believe that we have built a positive C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T reputation for quality and service with our lenders, joint venture partners, and tenants. If we were viewed as developing underperforming properties, suffered sustained losses on our investments, defaulted on a significant level of loans or experienced significant foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure of our properties, our reputation could be damaged. Damage to our reputation could make it more difficult to successfully develop or acquire properties in the future and to continue to grow and expand our relationships with our lenders, joint venture partners and tenants, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. – Governmental approvals. All necessary zoning, land-use, building, occupancy, and other required governmental permits and authorization may not be obtained, may only be obtained subject to onerous conditions or may not be obtained on a timely basis resulting in possible delays, decreased profitability, and increased management time and attention. – Competition. We compete for tenants in major U.S. markets by highlighting our locations, rental rates, services, reputation, and the design and condition of our facilities. As the competition for high-credit-quality tenants is intense, we may be required to provide rent abatements, incur charges for tenant improvements and other concessions, or we may not be able to lease vacant space in a timely manner. We face risks associated with operating property acquisitions. Operating property acquisitions contain inherent risks. These risks may include: – – – – – – – difficulty finding properties that are consistent with our strategy and that meet our standards; difficulty negotiating with new or existing tenants; the extent of competition in a particular market for attractive acquisitions may hinder our desired level of property acquisitions or redevelopment projects; the costs and timing of repositioning or redeveloping acquired properties may be greater than our estimates; the occupancy levels, lease-up timing, and rental rates may not meet our expectations; the acquired properties may fail to meet internal projections or otherwise fail to perform as expected; the acquired property may be in a market that is unfamiliar to us and could present additional unforeseen business challenges; – – – – – – – the timing of property acquisitions may not match the timing of property dispositions, leading to periods of time where projects’ proceeds are not invested as profitably as we desire or where we increase short-term borrowings until sales proceeds become available; the inability to obtain financing for acquisitions on favorable terms or at all; the inability to successfully integrate the operations, maintain consistent standards, controls, policies and procedures, or realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions within the anticipated time frames or at all; the inability to effectively monitor and manage our expanded portfolio of properties, retain key employees or attract highly qualified new employees; the possible decline in value of the acquired assets; the diversion of our management’s attention away from other business concerns; and the exposure to any undisclosed or unknown issues, expenses, or potential liabilities relating to acquisitions. In addition, we may acquire properties subject to liabilities with no, or limited, recourse against the prior owners or other third parties. As a result, if a liability were asserted against us based upon ownership of those properties, we might have to pay substantial sums to settle or contest it, which might not be fully covered by owner’s title insurance policies. Any of these risks could cause a failure to realize the intended benefits of our acquisitions and could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and the market price of our common stock. PA R KWAY T R A N S AC T I O N S R I S K S We may be unable to integrate the business of Parkway successfully or realize the anticipated synergies and related benefits of our merger with Parkway and spin-off of New Parkway or do so within the anticipated time frame. The ongoing integration of the Parkway business into our own will require significant management and resources. We may encounter difficulties in the integration process or in realizing any of the expected synergies from these transactions, including the following: – the inability to successfully combine our business and Parkway’s business in a manner that permits us to achieve the cost savings anticipated to result from the merger, the spin-off or any of the related transactions, which would result in some anticipated benefits of the merger not being realized in the time frame currently anticipated or at all; 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 9 – – – – – – lost sales and tenants as a result of certain tenants deciding not to do business with us; the complexities associated with managing our business out of several different locations and integrating personnel from the two companies, as well as complexities associated with the separation of personnel at New Parkway; the additional complexities of combining two companies with different histories, cultures, regulatory restrictions, markets and customer bases; our failure to retain key employees of either of the two companies; potential unknown liabilities and unforeseen increased expenses, delays or regulatory conditions associated with the merger, the spin-off or any of the related transactions; and performance shortfalls at one or both of the two companies as a result of the diversion of management’s attention caused by completing the merger, the spin-off or any of the related transactions and integrating the companies’ operations. For all these reasons, it is possible that the integration process could result in the distraction of our management, the disruption of our ongoing business or inconsistencies in our services, standards, controls, procedures and policies, any of which could adversely affect our ability to maintain relationships with tenants, customers, vendors and employees or to achieve the As a result of the merger and spin-off with Parkway and New Parkway (the “Transactions”), the composition of the Board of Directors has changed. Concurrent with the closing of the Transaction, the Board of Directors changed and currently consists of nine members, five of which served on the Company’s Board of Directors prior to the merger and four of which served on Parkway’s Board of Directors prior to the merger. One of the four directors who formerly served on Parkway’s board of directors was selected by the TPG Entities, pursuant to the TPG Agreement. The TPG Agreement grants certain rights to the TPG Entities. In connection with the Transactions, we have entered into the TPG Agreement, in order to establish various arrangements and restrictions with respect to governance of the Company, and certain rights with respect to shares of common stock of the Company owned by the TPG Entities. Pursuant to the terms of the TPG Agreement, for so long as the TPG Entities beneficially owns at least 5% of our common stock on an as-converted basis, the TPG Entities will have the right to nominate one director to the Company’s Board of Directors. In addition, for so long as the TPG Entities beneficially own at least 5% of our common stock on an as- converted basis, the TPG Entities will have the right to have their nominee to the Company’s Board of Directors appointed to the Investment and the Compensation Committees of the Company’s Board of Directors. Such committee and board membership can continue up to six months following the first date on which the TPG Entities no longer owns at least 5% of our common stock. In addition, in connection with the Merger Agreement, the Company’s Board of Directors granted to the TPG Entities an exemption from the ownership limit included in our articles of incorporation, establishing for the TPG Entities an aggregate substitute in lieu of the ownership limit to permit them to constructively and beneficially own (without duplication) (i) during the term of the standstill provided by the TPG Agreement (which will expire no later than October 6, 2019), up to 15% of our outstanding voting securities, subject to the terms and conditions of the TPG Agreement, and (ii) following the term of the standstill provided by the TPG Agreement, shares of our common stock held by the TPG Entities at the expiration of the standstill, subject to the terms, conditions, limitations, reductions and terminations set forth in an investor representation letter entered into with the TPG Entities. The interests of the TPG Entities could conflict with or differ from your interests as a holder of our common stock. For example, the level of ownership and board rights held by TPG could delay, defer or prevent a change of control or impede a merger, takeover or other business combination that our common stockholders may otherwise view favorably. In addition, a sale of all or a substantial number of shares of stock in the future by the TPG Entities could cause a decline in our stock price. The TPG Entities are significant stockholders and may have conflicts of interest with us in the future. As of December 31, 2016, the TPG Entities), owned approximately 9% of our issued and outstanding common stock and limited voting stock together. In addition, commencing on October 6, 2017, so long as the TPG Entities own at least 5% of our issued and outstanding common stock, the TPG Entities have a pre-emptive right to participate in our future equity issuances, subject to certain conditions. This concentration of ownership in one 10 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T stockholder could potentially be disadvantageous to other stockholders’ interests. In addition, if the TPG Entities were to sell or otherwise transfer all or a large percentage of its holdings, our stock price could decline and we could find it difficult to raise capital, if needed, through the sale of additional equity securities. Our future results will suffer if we do not effectively manage our expanded portfolio of properties following the Transactions and any failure by us to effectively manage our portfolio could have a material and adverse effect on our business and our ability to make distributions to shareholders, as required for us to continue to qualify as a REIT. As a result of the transactions with Parkway, the size of our business has increased. Our future success depends, in part, upon our ability to manage this expanded business, which will pose challenges for management, including challenges related to acting as landlord to a larger portfolio of properties and associated increased costs and complexity. Additionally, we have entered new markets, including Orlando, Tampa, and Phoenix. We may face challenges in adapting our business to different market conditions in such new markets. There can be no assurances that we will be successful. G E N E R A L B U S I N E S S R I S K S We are dependent upon the services of certain key personnel, the loss of any of whom could adversely impair our ability to execute our business. One of our objectives is to develop and maintain a strong management group at all levels. At any given time, we could lose the services of key executives and other employees. None of our key executives or other employees is subject to employment contracts. Further, we do not carry key person insurance on any of our executive officers or other key employees. The loss of services of any of our key employees could have an adverse effect upon our results of operations, financial condition, and our ability to execute our business strategy. Our restated and amended articles of incorporation contain limitations on ownership of our stock, which may prevent a change in control that might otherwise be in the best interests of our stockholders. Our restated and amended articles of incorporation impose limitations on the ownership of our stock. In general, except for certain individuals who owned stock at the time of adoption of these limitations, and except for persons that are granted waivers by our Board of Directors, no individual or entity may own more than 3.9% of the value of our outstanding stock. We provide waivers to this limitation on a case by case basis, which could result in increased voting control by a shareholder. The ownership limitation may have the effect of delaying, inhibiting, or preventing a transaction or a change in control that might involve a premium price for our stock or otherwise be in the best interest of our stockholders. The market price of our common stock may fluctuate. The market prices of shares of our common stock have been, and may continue to be, subject to fluctuation due to many events and factors such as those described in this report including: – – actual or anticipated variations in our operating results, funds from operations, or liquidity; the general reputation of real estate as an attractive investment in comparison to other equity securities and/or the reputation of the product types of our assets compared to other sectors of the real estate industry; – material changes in any significant tenant industry concentration; – – – – – – – – – – – – the general stock and bond market conditions, including changes in interest rates or fixed income securities; changes in tax laws; changes to our dividend policy; changes in market valuations of our properties; adverse market reaction to the amount of our outstanding debt at any time, the amount of our maturing debt, and our ability to refinance such debt on favorable terms; any failure to comply with existing debt covenants; any foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure of our properties; additions or departures of key executives and other employees; actions by institutional stockholders; uncertainties in world financial markets; the realization of any of the other risk factors described in this report; and general market and economic conditions, in particular, market and economic conditions of Atlanta, Austin, Charlotte, Tampa, Orlando, and Phoenix. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 11 Many of the factors listed above are beyond our control. Those factors may cause market prices of shares of our common stock to decline, regardless of our financial performance, condition, and prospects. The market price of shares of our common stock may fall significantly in the future, and it may be difficult for our stockholders to resell our common stock at prices they find attractive. If our future operating performance does not meet the projections of our analysts or investors, our stock price could decline. Independent securities analysts publish quarterly and annual projections of our financial performance. These projections are developed independently by third-party securities analysts based on their own analyses, and we undertake no obligation to monitor, and take no responsibility for, such projections. Such estimates are inherently subject to uncertainty and should not be relied upon as being indicative of the performance that we anticipate for any applicable period. Our actual revenues, net income, and funds from operations may differ materially from what is projected by securities analysts. If our actual results do not meet analysts’ guidance, our stock price could decline significantly. We face risks associated with security breaches through cyber attacks, cyber intrusions, or otherwise, as well as other significant disruptions of our information technology (IT) networks and related systems. We face risks associated with security breaches or disruptions, whether through cyber attacks or cyber intrusions over the internet, malware, computer viruses, attachments to emails, persons inside our organization, or persons with access to systems inside our organization, and other significant disruptions of our IT networks and related systems. The risk of a security breach or disruption, particularly through cyber attacks or cyber intrusion, including by computer hackers, foreign governments, and cyber terrorists, has generally increased as the number, intensity, and sophistication of attempted attacks and intrusions from around the world have increased. Our IT networks and related systems are essential to the operation of our business and our ability to perform day-to-day operations (including managing our building systems) and, in some cases, may be critical to the operations of certain of our tenants. There can be no assurance that our efforts to maintain the security and integrity of these types of IT networks and related systems will be effective or that attempted security breaches or disruptions would not be successful or damaging. A security breach or other significant disruption involving our IT networks and related systems could adversely impact our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, liquidity, and the market price of our common stock. F E D E R A L I N CO M E TA X R I S K S Any failure to continue to qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes could have a material adverse impact on us and our stockholders. We intend to continue to operate in a manner to qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. Qualification as a REIT involves the application of highly technical and complex provisions of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), for which there are only limited judicial facts and or administrative circumstances not entirely within our control may affect our ability to qualify as a REIT. In addition, we can provide no assurance that legislation, new regulations, administrative interpretations, or court decisions will not adversely affect our qualification as a REIT or the federal income tax consequences of our REIT status. interpretations. Certain If we were to fail to qualify as a REIT, we would not be allowed a deduction for distributions to stockholders in computing our taxable income. In this case, we would be subject to federal income tax (including any applicable alternative minimum tax) on our taxable income at regular corporate rates. Unless entitled to relief under certain Code provisions, we also would be disqualified from operating as a REIT for the four taxable years following the year during which qualification was lost. As a result, we would be subject to federal and state income taxes which could adversely affect our results of operations and distributions to stockholders. Although we currently intend to operate in a manner designed to qualify as a REIT, it is possible that future economic, market, legal, tax, or other considerations may cause us to revoke the REIT election. In order to qualify as a REIT, under current law, we generally are required each taxable year to distribute to our stockholders at least 90% of our net taxable income (excluding any net capital gain). To the extent that we do not distribute all of our net capital gain or distribute at least 90%, but less than 100%, of our other taxable income, we are subject to tax on the undistributed amounts at regular corporate rates. In addition, we are subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax to the extent that distributions paid by us during the calendar year are less than the sum of the following: 12 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T – – – 85% of our ordinary income; 95% of our net capital gain income for that year; and 100% of our undistributed taxable income (including any net capital gains) from prior years. We generally intend to make distributions to our stockholders to comply with the 90% distribution requirement to avoid corporate-level tax on undistributed taxable income and to avoid the nondeductible excise tax. Distributions could be made in cash, stock or in a combination of cash and stock. Differences in timing between taxable income and cash available for distribution could require us to borrow funds to meet the 90% distribution requirement, to avoid corporate- level tax on undistributed taxable income, and to avoid the nondeductible excise tax. Satisfying the distribution requirements may also make it more difficult to fund new investment or development projects. Certain property transfers may be characterized as prohibited transactions, resulting in a tax on any gain attributable to the transaction. From time to time, we may transfer or otherwise dispose of some of our properties. Under the Code, any gains resulting from transfers or dispositions, from other than our taxable REIT subsidiary, that are deemed to be prohibited transactions would be subject to a 100% tax on any gain associated with the transaction. Prohibited transactions generally include sales of assets that constitute inventory or other property held for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business. Since we acquire properties primarily for investment purposes, we do not believe that our occasional transfers or disposals of property are deemed to be prohibited transactions. However, whether or not a transfer or sale of property qualifies as a prohibited transaction depends on all the facts and circumstances surrounding the particular transaction. The Internal Revenue Service may contend that certain transfers or disposals of properties by us are prohibited transactions. While we believe that the Internal Revenue Service would not prevail in any such dispute, if the Internal Revenue Service were to argue successfully that a transfer or disposition of property constituted a prohibited transaction, we would be required to pay a tax equal to 100% of any gain allocable to us from the prohibited transaction. In addition, income from a prohibited transaction might adversely affect our ability to satisfy the income tests for qualification as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. Potential changes to the U.S tax laws could have a significant negative impact on our business operations, financial condition and earnings. We cannot predict whether, when or to what extent new U.S. federal tax laws, regulations, interpretations or rulings will be issued, nor is the long-term impact of proposed tax reforms (including future reforms that may be part of any enacted tax reform) on the real estate industry clear. Furthermore, potential tax reforms may negatively impact our tenants’ operating results, financial condition and future business plans. Investors are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the effect of potential changes to the U.S. federal tax laws on an investment in our shares. A reform of the U.S. tax law by the new administration may be enacted in a manner that negatively impacts our operating results, financial condition and business operations, and is adverse to our stockholders. D I S C LO S U R E CO N T R O L S A N D I N T E R N A L CO N T R O L OV E R F I N A N C I A L R E P O R T I N G R I S K S Our business could be adversely impacted if we have deficiencies in our disclosure controls and procedures or internal control over financial reporting. The design and effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting may not prevent all errors, misstatements, or misrepresentations. In addition, the complex accounting issues and integration challenges associated with the Transactions, increases the risk that we could incorrectly apply an accounting standard and the risk that undetected errors in publicly disclosed financial information could occur. While management will continue to review the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting, there can be no guarantee that our internal control over financial reporting will be effective in accomplishing all control objectives at all times. Deficiencies, including any material weakness, in our internal control over financial reporting which may occur in the future could result in misstatements of our results of operations, restatements of our financial statements, a decline in our stock price, or otherwise materially adversely affect our business, reputation, results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 13 I T E M 1 B . U N R E S O L V E D S T A F F C O M M E N T S Not applicable. I T E M 2 . P R O P E R T I E S The following table sets forth certain information related to operating properties in which we have an ownership interest. Information presented in note 6 to the consolidated financial statements provides additional information related to our unconsolidated joint ventures. Except as noted, all information presented is as of December 31, 2016: Operating Properties Property Description I. OFFICE PROPERTIES Colorado Tower 816 Congress Research Park V Metropolitan Area Rentable Square Feet Financial Statement Presentation Company’s Ownership Interest End of Period Leased Weighted Average Occupancy (1) % of Total Net Operating Income (2) Property Level Debt ($000) Annualized Base Rents (5) Company’s Share Austin 373,000 Consolidated 100% 100.0% 96.5% 4.5% 119,069 Austin 435,000 Consolidated 100% 93.2% Austin 173,000 Consolidated 100% 97.1% 92.3% 23.7% 3.1% 0.6% 84,231 — One Eleven Congress Austin 519,000 Consolidated 100% 90.6% 80.5% 4.3% 130,002 San Jacinto Center Austin 406,000 Consolidated 100% 98.9% 93.7% 4.6% 102,562 AUSTIN 1,906,000 17.1% $ 435,864 Northpark Town Center (3) The American Cancer Society Center Promenade Terminus 100 Terminus 200 Meridian Mark Plaza Emory University Hospital Midtown Medical Office Tower Atlanta 1,528,000 Consolidated 100% 85.2% 84.8% 7.8% — Atlanta 996,000 Consolidated 100% 85.9% 84.6% 4.3% 127,451 Atlanta 777,000 Consolidated 100% 94.5% 89.2% 4.7% 104,996 Atlanta 660,000 Unconsolidated 50% 90.6% Atlanta 566,000 Unconsolidated 50% 96.4% Atlanta 160,000 Consolidated 100% 100.0% Atlanta 358,000 Unconsolidated 50% 96.2% 3344 Peachtree Atlanta 484,000 Consolidated 100% 96.1% One Buckhead Plaza Atlanta 461,000 Consolidated 100% 94.2% 3350 Peachtree 3348 Peachtree Atlanta 413,000 Consolidated 100% 92.9% Atlanta 258,000 Consolidated 100% 91.2% Two Buckhead Plaza Atlanta 210,000 Consolidated 100% 83.1% ATLANTA 6,871,000 38.9% $ 530,569 14 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T 92.1% 91.5% 96.6% 96.7% 96.0% 93.9% 92.7% 93.1% 84.9% 2.4% 2.2% 1.3% 1.3% 4.7% 3.7% 2.7% 2.0% 1.8% 63,256 40,408 24,427 36,258 80,258 — — — 53,515 Metropolitan Area Rentable Square Feet Financial Statement Presentation Company’s Ownership Interest End of Period Leased Weighted Average Occupancy (1) % of Total Net Operating Income (2) Property Level Debt ($000) Annualized Base Rents (5) Company’s Share Property Description Gateway Village Fifth Third Center Hearst Tower NASCAR Plaza CHARLOTTE Hayden Ferry (3) Tempe Gateway 111 West Rio (American Airlines) PHOENIX Charlotte 1,061,000 Unconsolidated 50% 99.3% Charlotte 698,000 Consolidated 100% 96.7% Charlotte 966,000 Consolidated 100% 98.7% Charlotte 394,000 Consolidated 100% 98.2% 3,119,000 Phoenix 789,000 Consolidated 100% 93.8% Phoenix 264,000 Consolidated 100% 98.4% 98.8% 91.6% 94.7% 95.3% 87.9% 98.6% Phoenix 225,000 Unconsolidated 75% 100.0% 83.3% 1,278,000 Corporate Center (3) Tampa 1,224,000 Consolidated 100% 84.4% The Pointe Tampa 253,000 Consolidated 100% 96.2% Harborview Plaza Tampa 205,000 Consolidated 100% 98.0% TAMPA 1,682,000 Bank of America Center Orlando 421,000 Consolidated 100% 87.7% One Orlando Centre Orlando 356,000 Consolidated 100% 82.4% Citrus Center ORLANDO Orlando 261,000 Consolidated 100% 94.3% 1,038,000 80.8% 94.3% 76.1% 92.1% 73.2% 90.8% Courvoisier Centre (3) Miami 343,000 Unconsolidated 20% 86.5% 80.8% MIAMI 343,000 1.3% — 5.9% 148,866 7.9% 3.3% — — 18.4% $ 148,866 5.2% 2.6% 0.3% 8.1% 6.7% 1.6% 1.2% — — — — — 23,369 — 9.5% $ 23,369 1.9% 1.1% 1.4% 4.4% 0.6% — — — — 22,309 0.6% $ 22,309 TOTAL OFFICE PROPERTIES 16,237,000 97.0% $1,160,977 $ 345,308(6) II. OTHER PROPERTIES Emory Point Apartments (Phase I) (4) Emory Point Retail (Phase I) Emory Point Apartments (Phase II) (4) Atlanta 404,000 Unconsolidated 75% 90.0% Atlanta 80,000 Unconsolidated 75% 95.9% Atlanta 257,000 Unconsolidated 75% 76.9% Emory Point Retail (Phase II) Atlanta 45,000 Unconsolidated 75% 91.9% TOTAL OTHER PROPERTIES 786,000 TOTAL PORTFOLIO 17,023,000 86.5% 95.3% 75.0% 87.9% 1.4% $ 36,328 0.4% 7,194 0.2% 1.0% 28,701 5,026 3.0% $ 77,249 $ 12,731 100.0% $1,238,226 $ 358,039 (1) Weighted average occupancy represents an average of the square footage occupied at the property during the year. (2) Net operating income represents rental property revenues less rental property operating expenses for the three months ended December 31, 2016. (3) Contains multiple buildings that are grouped together for reporting purposes. (4) Phase I consists of 443 units and Phase II consists of 307 units. (5) Annualized base rents represents the sum of the annualized rent each tenant is paying as of the end of the reporting period. If a tenant is not paying rent due to a free rent concession, annualized base rent is calculated based on the annualized base rent the tenant will pay in the first period it is required to pay rent. Included in this amount is $14.9 million of Annualized Base Rent for tenants in a free rent period. (6) 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 15 Office Lease Expirations (1) As of December 31, 2016, our leases expire as follows: Year of Expiration Number of Tenants Expiring % of Leased Space Square Feet Annual Contractual Rents ($000’s) (2) % of Total Annual Contractual Rents Annual Contractual Rent/Sq. Ft. (2) 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 & Thereafter Total 169 151 139 116 119 91 61 49 754,792 997,019 1,116,486 1,021,135 1,789,478 2,065,821 1,001,575 918,063 111 3,802,231 1,006 13,466,600 5.6% 7.4% 8.3% 7.6% 13.3% 15.3% 7.4% 6.8% 28.3% 100.0% $ 21,143 29,353 31,847 30,563 53,535 58,220 30,595 33,029 122,426 $ 410,711 5.1% 7.1% 7.7% 7.4% 13.0% 14.2% 7.5% 8.1% 29.9% 100.0% $ 28.01 29.44 28.52 29.93 29.92 28.18 30.55 35.98 32.20 $ 30.49 (1) Company’s share. (2) Annual Contractual Rent shown is the rate in the year of expiration. It includes the minimum contractual rent paid by the tenant which may or may not include a base year of operating expenses depending upon the terms of the lease. Development Pipeline (1) As of December 31, 2016, we had the following projects under development ($ in thousands): Project Type Metropolitan Area Company’s Ownership Interest Project Start Date Number of Square Feet / Apartment Units Estimated Project Cost (2) Project Cost Incurred to Date (2) Percent Leased Initial Occupancy (3)/ Estimated Stabilization (4) Carolina Square Mixed Chapel Hill, NC 50% 2Q15 $123,000 $ 66,845 Office Retail Apartments 864 Spring Street (NCR Phase I) 158,000 44,000 246 74% 61% —% 3Q17 / 3Q18 3Q17 / 3Q18 3Q17 / 3Q18 Office Atlanta, GA 100% 3Q15 502,000 219,000 103,994 100% 1Q18 / 1Q18 8000 Avalon 858 Spring Street (NCR Phase II) Office Atlanta, GA Office Atlanta, GA 90% 1Q16 224,000 73,000 42,152 19% 2Q17 / 2Q18 100% 4Q16 260,000 119,000 16,242 100% 4Q18 / 4Q18 Dimensional Place Office Retail Total Office Charlotte, NC 50% 4Q16 94,000 18,549 266,000 16,000 100% —% 4Q18 / 4Q18 4Q18 / 4Q18 $628,000 $ 247,782 (1) This schedule shows projects currently under active development and/or projects with a contractual obligation through the substantial completion of construction. Amounts included in the estimated project cost column represent the estimated costs of the project through stabilization. Significant estimation is required to derive these costs, and the final costs may differ from these estimates. The projected stabilization dates are also estimates and are subject to change as the project proceeds through the development process. 16 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T (2) Amount represents 100% of the estimated project cost. Carolina Square is expected to be funded with a combination of equity from the partners and up to $79.8 million from a construction loan, which has $23.7 million outstanding as of December 31, 2016. (3) Represents the quarter which the Company estimates the first tenant occupies space. (4) Stabilization represents the earlier of the quarter in which the Company estimates it will achieve 90% economic occupancy or one year from initial occupancy. Land Holdings As of December 31, 2016, we owned the following land holdings, either directly, or indirectly, through joint ventures: COMMERCIAL North Point Wildwood Office Park The Avenue Forsyth-Adjacent Land 120 West Trinity GEORGIA Victory Center TEXAS Corporate Center FLORIDA COMMERCIAL LAND HELD (ACRES) COST BASIS OF COMMERCIAL LAND HELD RESIDENTIAL (1) Callaway Gardens (2) GEORGIA Padre Island TEXAS RESIDENTIAL LAND HELD (ACRES) COST BASIS OF RESIDENTIAL LAND HELD GRAND TOTAL LAND HELD (ACRES) GRAND TOTAL COST BASIS OF LAND HELD Metropolitan Area Company’s Ownership Interest Total Developable Land (Acres) Company’s Share Atlanta 100.0% Atlanta 50.0% Atlanta 100.0% Atlanta 20.0% Dallas 75.0% Tampa 100.0% 12 22 10 5 49 3 3 7 7 Atlanta 100.0% Corpus Christi 50.0% 59 43 $ 41,726 $ 16,386 217 217 15 15 232 225 $ 6,850 $ 3,544 291 268 $ 48,576 $ 19,930 (1) Residential represents land that may be sold to third parties as lots or in large tracts for residential development. (2) Callaway Gardens was a consolidated joint venture. In January 2017, the Company withdrew from the joint venture. The Company no longer owns the land, but maintains a participation interest in future lot sales. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 17 I T E M 3 . L E G A L P R O C E E D I N G S We are subject to various legal proceedings, claims, and administrative proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business, some of which are expected to be covered by liability insurance. Management makes assumptions and estimates concerning the likelihood and amount of any potential loss relating to these matters using the latest information available. We record a liability for litigation if an unfavorable outcome is probable and the amount of loss or range of loss can be reasonably estimated. If an unfavorable outcome is probable and a reasonable estimate of the loss is a range, we accrue the best estimate within the range. If no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, we accrue the minimum amount within the range. If an unfavorable outcome is probable but the amount of the loss cannot be reasonably estimated, we disclose the nature of the litigation and indicate that an estimate of the loss or range of loss cannot be made. If an unfavorable outcome is reasonably possible and the estimated loss is material, we disclose the nature and estimate of the possible loss of the litigation. We do not disclose information with respect to litigation where an unfavorable outcome is considered to be remote or where the estimated loss would not be material. Based on current expectations, such matters, both individually and in the aggregate, are not expected to have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, results of operations, business, or financial condition. I T E M 4 . M I N E S A F E T Y D I S C L O S U R E S Not applicable. I T E M X . E X E C U T I V E O F F I C E R S O F T H E R E G I S T R A N T The Executive Officers of the Registrant as of the date hereof are as follows: Name Age Office Held Lawrence L. Gellerstedt III Gregg D. Adzema M. Colin Connolly John S. McColl Pamela F. Roper John D. Harris, Jr. 60 52 40 54 43 57 President, Chief Executive Officer Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer Executive Vice President Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer, Treasurer and Assistant Secretary 18 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T Family Relationships There are no family relationships among the Executive Officers or Directors. Term of Office The term of office for all officers expires at the annual stockholders’ meeting. The Board retains the power to remove any officer at any time. Business Experience Mr. Gellerstedt was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer and Director in July 2009. From February 2009 to July 2009, Mr. Gellerstedt served as President and Chief Operating Officer. From May 2008 to February 2009, Mr. Gellerstedt served as Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer. Mr. Adzema was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in November 2010. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Adzema served as Chief Investment Officer of Hayden Harper Inc., an investment advisory and hedge fund company, from October 2009 to November 2010. Mr. Connolly was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in July 2016. From December 2015 to July 2016, Mr. Connolly served as Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer. From May 2013 to December 2015, Mr. Connolly served as Senior Vice President P A R T I I and Chief Investment Officer. From September 2011 to May 2013, Mr. Connolly served as Senior Vice President. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Connolly served as Executive Director with Morgan Stanley from December 2009 to August 2011 and as Vice President with Morgan Stanley from December 2006 to December 2009. Mr. McColl was appointed Executive Vice President in December 2011. From February 2010 to December 2011, Mr. McColl served as Executive Vice President-Development, Office Leasing and Asset Management. From May 1997 to February 2010, Mr. McColl served as Senior Vice President. Ms. Roper was appointed Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary in February 2017. From October 2012 to February 2017, Ms. Roper served as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary. From February 2008 to October 2012, Ms. Roper served as Senior Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Assistant Secretary. Mr. Harris was appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer in February 2005. In May 2005, Mr. Harris was appointed Assistant Secretary. In December 2014, Mr. Harris was appointed Treasurer. I T E M 5 . M A R K E T F O R R E G I S T R A N T ’ S C O M M O N S T O C K A N D R E L A T E D S T O C K H O L D E R M A T T E R S M A R K E T I N FO R M AT I O N The high and low sales prices for our common stock and dividends declared per common share were as follows: 2016 Quarters 2015 Quarters First Second Third Fourth First Second Third Fourth High Low Dividends Payment Date $10.43 $ 7.53 $0.080 $11.07 $10.00 $0.080 2/22/2016 5/27/2016 $ 11.40 $ 10.02 $ 0.080 $10.37 $ 8.87 $0.080 9/6/2016 1/19/2017 2/23/2015 5/28/2015 8/24/2015 12/18/2015 $ 11.63 $10.50 $ 7.09 $ 10.01 $ — $ 0.080 $10.96 $ 9.40 $0.080 $10.89 $ 8.68 $0.080 We declared and paid our fourth quarter 2016 common dividend in January 2017 in the amount of $0.06 per share. H O L D E R S Our common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol CUZ). On February 9, 2017, there were 1,758 stockholders of record of our common stock. P U R C H A S E S O F E Q U I T Y S E C U R I T I E S There were no purchases of common stock by the Company during the fourth quarter of 2016. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 19 P E R FO R M A N C E G R A P H The following graph compares the five-year cumulative total return of our common stock with the NYSE Composite Index, the FTSE NAREIT Equity Index, and the SNL US REIT Office Index. The graph assumes a $100 investment in each of the indices on December 31, 2011 and the reinvestment of all dividends. TOTA L R E T U R N P E R FO R M A N C E e u l a V x e d n I 220 200 180 160 140 120 100 80 12/31/11 12/31/12 12/31/13 12/31/14 12/31/15 12/31/16 Cousins Properties Incorporated FTSE NAREIT Equity Index NYSE Composite Index SNL US REIT Office Index CO M PA R I S O N O F C U M U L AT I V E TOTA L R E T U R N O F O N E O R M O R E CO M PA N I E S , P E E R G R O U P S , I N D U S T RY I N D I C E S A N D/O R B R OA D M A R K E T S Index Cousins Properties Incorporated NYSE Composite Index FTSE NAREIT Equity Index SNL US REIT Office Index Fiscal Year Ended 12/31/2011 12/31/2012 12/31/2013 12/31/2014 12/31/2015 12/31/2016 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 133.31 116.15 118.06 114.56 167.40 146.80 120.97 122.09 190.50 156.87 157.43 153.91 162.40 150.64 162.46 155.26 208.51 168.63 176.30 173.26 I T E M 6 . S E L E C T E D F I N A N C I A L D A T A The following selected financial data sets forth consolidated financial and operating information on a historical basis. This data has been derived from our consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. Prior year disclosures have been restated for discontinued operations as described in note 3 of the consolidated financial statements. 20 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T Revenues: Rental property revenues Fee income Other Costs and expenses: Rental property operating expenses Reimbursed expenses General and administrative expenses Interest expense Depreciation and amortization Acquisition and merger costs Other Loss on extinguishment of debt Income (loss) from continuing operations before benefit for income taxes, income from unconsolidated joint ventures, and gain on sale of investment properties Benefit (expense) for income taxes from operations Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Income (loss) from continuing operations before gain on sale of investment properties Gain on sale of investment properties Income from continuing operations Income (loss) from discontinued operations: Income from discontinued operations Income (loss) on sale from discontinued operations Income from discontinued operations Net income Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to controlling interests Preferred share original issuance costs Dividends to preferred stockholders Net income available to common stockholders Net income from continuing operations attributable to controlling interest per common share - basic and diluted Net income per common share - basic and diluted Dividends declared per common share Total assets (at year-end) Notes payable (at year-end) For the Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 (in thousands, except per share amounts) $ 249,814 $ 196,244 $ 164,123 $ 122,672 $ 114,208 8,347 1,050 7,297 828 12,519 919 10,891 4,681 17,797 4,841 259,211 204,369 177,561 138,244 136,846 96,908 3,259 25,592 26,650 97,948 24,521 5,888 82,545 3,430 16,918 22,735 71,625 299 1,181 76,963 3,652 19,784 20,983 62,258 1,130 3,729 58,949 5,215 21,986 19,091 47,131 3,626 4,167 50,329 7,063 23,208 23,933 39,424 793 7,617 280,766 198,733 188,499 160,165 152,367 (5,180) — — — (94) (26,735) 5,636 (10,938) (21,921) (15,615) — 10,562 (16,173) 77,114 60,941 — 8,302 13,938 80,394 94,332 19,163 31,848 — 19,163 80,104 (551) 31,297 125,629 (995) (111) 79,109 125,518 — — — — 20 23 (91) 11,268 67,325 39,258 350 12,536 12,886 20,764 19,358 40,122 53,008 (1,004) 52,004 (3,530) (2,955) 45,427 61,288 106,715 8,625 11,489 20,114 126,829 (5,068) 121,761 (2,656) 23,552 4,053 27,605 1,907 18,407 20,314 47,919 (2,191) 45,728 — (10,008) (12,907) 79,109 $ 125,518 $ 45,519 $ 109,097 $ 32,821 0.24 0.31 0.24 $ $ $ 0.44 0.58 0.32 $ $ $ 0.02 0.22 0.30 $ $ $ 0.62 0.76 0.18 $ $ $ 0.13 0.32 0.18 $ $ $ $ $4,171,607 $2,595,320 $2,664,295 $2,270,493 $1,122,701 $1,380,920 $ 718,810 $ 789,309 $ 627,381 $ 423,869 Stockholders' investment (at year-end) $2,455,557 $1,683,415 $1,673,458 $1,457,401 $ 620,342 Common shares outstanding (at year-end) 393,418 211,513 216,513 189,666 104,090 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 21 I T E M 7 . M A N A G E M E N T ’ S D I S C U S S I O N A N D A N A L Y S I S O F F I N A N C I A L C O N D I T I O N A N D R E S U L T S O F O P E R A T I O N S The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the selected financial data and the consolidated financial statements and notes. Overview of 2016 Performance and Company and Industry Trends Our strategy is to create value for our stockholders through the acquisition, development, ownership, and management of Class A office assets and opportunistic mixed-use developments in Sunbelt markets. During 2016, we completed a merger with Parkway and a spin-off of the combined companies’ Houston, Texas operations and certain other legal businesses of Parkway into a separate public company, New Parkway. In addition, we commenced the development of two office projects in Atlanta, Georgia and one office project in Charlotte, North Carolina. As a result of these activities, we believe that our increased scale and enhanced portfolio diversity will enhance our flexibility to meet customer space needs and allow us to attract and retain quality local market talent that, over time, will drive customer retention and occupancy. We further believe that these transactions will complement our strategy of maintaining a simple platform, trophy assets, opportunistic investments and a strong balance sheet. T R A N S AC T I O N S W I T H PA R KWAY On October 6, 2016, we merged with Parkway, and on October 7, 2016, we spun off the operations of the combined companies’ Houston business into a separate publicly traded company, New Parkway. Subsequent to the merger and spin-off, we sold three properties we acquired in the merger, sold one additional existing property, and purchased the outside partner’s interest in a consolidated joint venture that owned four properties, increasing our ownership from approximately 30% to 100%. As a result of these activities, our owned square footage of operating properties feet immediately before the merger and spin-off to 17.0 million at December 31, 2016. In addition to adding properties to our existing markets of Atlanta, Charlotte and Austin, we also added properties in the new markets of Phoenix, Orlando and Tampa. from 15.4 million square increased In the merger, we assumed Parkway indebtedness and subsequent to the merger but before December 31, 2016 we repaid $251.9 million in assumed Parkway mortgages. We funded the repayments and the purchase of the partnership interest discussed above with property sales and proceeds from a new, unsecured term loan totaling $250.0 million. OT H E R 2 01 6 AC T I V I T Y In addition to the transactions with Parkway, we continued to implement our strategy of selectively investing in Class A office assets in our core markets by commencing development activities on two new projects and adding a second phase to an existing development project. We entered into a joint venture with DFA to develop a 282,000 square foot regional headquarters for DFA. Total costs for this project are estimated at $94 million and we estimate a fourth quarter of 2018 completion. We also commenced development of a 224,000 square-foot office building in Atlanta that is expected to cost $73 million and is scheduled for a second quarter 2017 completion. In addition, we commenced the second phase of a build-to-suit project with NCR Corporation in Atlanta. This project will become NCR’s world headquarters and the second phase is expected to cost $119 million and to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2018. In addition to continuing the development of the first phase of the NCR project, we continued the development of Carolina Square, a 123,000 square foot, mixed-use project in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. We are currently conducting pre-development activities on a project in Decatur, Georgia and are pursuing additional development opportunities that may result in projects that commence in 2017 or thereafter. We also repurchased 1.6 million shares of our common stock for $13.7 million in the first portion of 2016 under a plan approved in 2015 which provides management with the ability to repurchase up to $100.0 million of shares through September 2017. We sold our final building at North Point, 100 North Point Center East, early in 2016 for $22.0 million, sold One Ninety One Peachtree in the fourth quarter of 2016 for $268 million, and sold 20 acres of land at North Point in the fourth quarter for $4.8 million. 22 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T We leased or renewed approximately 2.4 million square feet of office space. The weighted average net effective rent per square foot, representing base rent less operating expense reimbursements and leasing costs, for new or renewed non- amenity leases with terms greater than one year was $18.17 per square foot. Cash basis net effective rent per square foot increased 10.3% on spaces that have been previously occupied in the past year. Cash basis net effective rent represents net rent at the end of the term paid by the prior tenant compared to the net rent at the beginning of the term paid by the current tenant. Our same property net operating income for the year increased by 6.1% on a GAAP basis and 8.4% on a cash basis. The same property leasing percentage remained stable throughout the year. M A R K E T CO N D I T I O N S As a result of the transactions with Parkway, we enhanced our geographic diversification with a deepened presence in Atlanta, Austin, and Charlotte while entering the new markets of Phoenix, Tampa, and Orlando. We believe these Sunbelt markets possess robust economic and market fundamentals. Employment growth in all six markets is ahead of the US average, while new office construction is below the 10-year historical average. As a result of these healthy office fundamentals, we believe our portfolio will benefit as we further drive occupancy and rental rate growth. In Atlanta, we currently own a 6.9 million square foot, Class A office portfolio with a significant concentration in Buckhead, as well as assets in Midtown and Central Perimeter. Atlanta economic fundamentals remain strong. The city produced approximately 70,000 jobs in 2016, which is in the top four nationally. Office fundamentals are equally strong. While vacancy rates declined to 12%, the lowest level since 2001, development remained consistent. As of December 31, 2016, less than 1.2 million square feet of speculative office space was under construction across Atlanta, which represents just 1% of the city’s 124 million square foot Class A office market. These are historically low numbers for Atlanta at this point in the real estate cycle. Austin real estate fundamentals also remain healthy. The city’s economy continued to grow well ahead of the national pace. Job growth remains robust with a 1.7% increase over the past year. Austin’s unemployment rate at the end of 2016 was 3.0%, below the national average of 4.7%, and one of the lowest in the country. Although new office supply remains slightly elevated in Austin, with 2.6 million square feet under construction, we do not believe this new supply poses a significant risk to our portfolio which was 96% leased and had 6.4 years of weighted-average lease term as of December 31, 2016. Charlotte also continues to deliver steady growth. The city’s unemployment rate at the end of 2016 was 4.6%, its lowest level since 2007. Charlotte’s low cost, business-friendly environment continued to push demand for office space in 2016 with over 622,000 square feet of net absorption during 2016 and historically low vacancy rates at the top-tier office assets. Developers have responded to these healthy office fundamentals as approximately 2.3 million square feet of new supply is now under construction. However, similar to Austin, we believe that our portfolio is well-positioned as we are approximately 98% leased with approximately 8.4 years of remaining weighted average lease term. In Phoenix, we now own 1.3 million square feet in the high- growth Tempe submarket. Our portfolio of Tempe assets is located within walking distance of Arizona State University and its 80,000 students. While Phoenix saw impressive job growth in 2016, the Tempe submarket has been particularly strong with high-tech software and services job growth. With the increase in demand in Tempe and little new supply, office rents have hit historical highs while vacancy in the Class A market is less than 3%. In our Florida markets, we see similar themes as it relates to job growth and supply/demand characteristics as we see in our other Sun Belt markets. Our new Tampa portfolio consists of 1.7 million square feet of Class A office product in the Westshore submarket. Westshore, which is located in close proximity to the airport, leads Tampa with the highest rents and the lowest vacancy levels at approximately 8.4%. In Orlando, we currently own approximately 1 million square feet of Class A assets in the central business district, which leads the broader market in rental rates. Class A vacancy levels in the central business district has declined to 9%, and there are no office projects under development. Critical Accounting Policies Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP as outlined in the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”), and the notes to consolidated financial statements include a summary of the significant accounting policies for the Company. The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires the use of certain estimates, a change in which could materially affect revenues, expenses, assets, or liabilities. Some of the our accounting policies are considered to be critical accounting policies, which are ones that are both 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 23 important to the portrayal of our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows, and ones that also require significant judgment or complex estimation processes. Our critical accounting policies are as follows: R E A L E S TAT E A S S E T S Cost Capitalization. We are involved in all stages of real estate ownership, including development. Prior to the point a project becomes probable of being developed (defined as more likely than not), we expense predevelopment costs. After we determine a project is probable, all subsequently incurred predevelopment costs, as well as interest, real estate taxes, and certain internal personnel and associated costs directly related to the project under development, are capitalized in accordance with accounting rules. If we abandon development of a project that had earlier been deemed probable, we charge all previously capitalized costs to expense. If this occurs, our predevelopment expenses could rise significantly. The determination of whether a project is probable requires judgment. If we determine that a project is probable, interest, general and administrative, and other expenses could be materially different than if management determines the project is not probable. During the predevelopment period of a probable project and the period in which a project is under construction, we capitalize all direct and indirect costs associated with planning, developing, leasing, and constructing the project. Determination of what costs constitute direct and indirect project costs requires us, in some cases, to exercise judgment. If we determine certain costs to be direct or indirect project costs, amounts recorded in projects under development on the balance sheet and amounts recorded in general and administrative and other expenses on the statements of operations could be materially different than if we determine these costs are not directly or indirectly associated with the project. Once a project is constructed and deemed substantially complete and held for occupancy, carrying costs, such as real estate taxes, interest, internal personnel, and associated costs, are expensed as incurred. Determination of when construction of a project is substantially complete and held available for occupancy requires judgment. We consider projects and/or project phases to be both substantially complete and held for occupancy at the earlier of the date on which the project or phase reached economic occupancy of 90% or one year after it is substantially complete. Our judgment of the date the project is substantially complete has a direct impact on our operating expenses and net income for the period. Real Estate Property Acquisitions. Upon acquisition of an operating property, we record the acquired tangible and intangible assets and assumed liabilities at fair value at the acquisition date. Fair value is based on estimated cash flow projections that utilize available market information and discount and/or capitalization rates as appropriate. Estimates of future cash flows are based on a number of factors including historical operating results, known and anticipated trends, and market and economic conditions. The acquired assets and assumed liabilities for an acquired operating property generally include, but are not limited to: land, buildings, and identified tangible and intangible assets and liabilities associated with in-place leases, including tenant improvements, leasing costs, value of above-market and below-market leases, and value of acquired in-place leases. The fair value of land is derived from comparable sales of land within the same submarket and/or region. The fair value of buildings, tenant improvements, and leasing costs are based upon current market replacement costs and other relevant market rate information. The fair value of the above-market or below-market component of an acquired in-place lease is based upon the present value (calculated using a market discount rate) of the difference between (i) the contractual rents to be paid pursuant to the lease over its remaining term and (ii) management’s estimate of the rents that would be paid using fair market rental rates and rent escalations at the date of acquisition over the remaining term of the lease. In- place leases at acquired properties are reviewed at the time of acquisition to determine if contractual rents are above or below current market rents for the acquired property, and an identifiable intangible asset or liability is recorded if there is an above-market or below-market lease. The fair value of acquired in-place leases is derived based on our assessment of lost revenue and costs incurred for the period required to lease the “assumed vacant” property to the occupancy level when purchased. This fair value is based on a variety of considerations including, but not necessarily limited to: (1) the value associated with avoiding the cost of originating the acquired in-place leases; (2) the value associated with lost revenue related to tenant reimbursable operating costs estimated to be incurred during the assumed lease-up period; and (3) the value associated with lost rental revenue from existing leases during the assumed lease-up period. Factors considered in performing these analyses include an estimate of the carrying costs during the expected lease-up periods, such as real estate taxes, insurance, and other operating expenses, current market conditions, and costs to execute similar leases, such as leasing commissions, legal, and other related expenses. 24 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T The amounts recorded for above-market and in-place leases are included in other assets on the balance sheets, and the amounts for below-market leases are included in other liabilities on the balance sheets. These amounts are amortized on a straight-line basis as an adjustment to rental income over the remaining term of the applicable leases. significant acquisitions The determination of the fair value of the acquired tangible and intangible assets and assumed liabilities of operating property judgment requires about the numerous inputs discussed above. The use of different assumptions in these fair value calculations could significantly affect the reported amounts of the allocation of the acquisition related assets and liabilities and the related amortization and depreciation expense recorded for such assets and liabilities. In addition, since the values of above- market and below-market leases are amortized as either a reduction or increase to rental income, respectively, the judgments for these intangibles could have a significant impact on reported rental revenues and results of operations. Depreciation and Amortization. We depreciate or amortize operating real estate assets over their estimated useful lives using the straight-line method of depreciation. We use judgment when estimating the life of real estate assets and when allocating certain indirect project costs to projects under development. Historical data, comparable properties, and replacement costs are some of the factors considered in determining useful lives and cost allocations. The use of different assumptions for the estimated useful life of assets or cost allocations could significantly affect depreciation and amortization expense and the carrying amount of our real estate assets. Impairment. We review our real estate assets on a property-by-property basis for impairment. This review includes our operating properties and land holdings. The first step in this process is for us to use judgment to determine whether an asset is considered to be held and used or held for sale, in accordance with accounting guidance. In order to be considered a real estate asset held for sale, we must, among other things, have the authority to commit to a plan to sell the asset in its current condition, have commenced the plan to sell the asset, and have determined that it is probable that the asset will sell within one year. If we determine that an asset is held for sale, we must record an impairment loss if the fair value less costs to sell is less than the carrying amount. All real estate assets not meeting the held for sale criteria are considered to be held and used. In the impairment analysis for assets held and used, we must use judgment to determine whether there are indicators of impairment. For operating properties, these indicators could include a decline in a property’s leasing percentage, a current period operating loss or negative cash flows combined with a history of losses at the property, a decline in lease rates for that property or others in the property’s market, or an adverse change in the financial condition of significant tenants. For land holdings, indicators could include an overall decline in the market value of land in the region, a decline in development activity for the intended use of the land or other adverse economic and market conditions. If we determine that an asset that is held and used has indicators of impairment, we must determine whether the undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset exceed the carrying amount of the asset. If the undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the asset, we must reduce the carrying amount of the asset to fair value. In calculating the undiscounted net cash flows of an asset, we must estimate a number of inputs. For operating properties, we must estimate future rental rates, expenditures for future leases, future operating expenses, and market capitalization rates for residual values, among other things. For land holdings, we must estimate future sales prices as well as operating income, carrying costs, and residual capitalization rates for land held for future development. In addition, if there are alternative strategies for the future use of the asset, we must assess the probability of each alternative strategy and perform a probability-weighted undiscounted cash flow analysis to assess the recoverability of the asset. We must use considerable judgment in determining the alternative strategies and in assessing the probability of each strategy selected. In determining the fair value of an asset, we exercise judgment on a number of factors. We may determine fair value by using a discounted cash flow calculation or by utilizing comparable market information. We must determine an appropriate discount rate to apply to the cash flows in the discounted cash flow calculation. We must use judgment in analyzing comparable market information because no two real estate assets are identical in location and price. The estimates and judgments used in the impairment process are highly subjective and susceptible to frequent change. If we determine that an asset is held and used, the results of operations could be materially different than if we determine that an asset is held for sale. Different assumptions we use in the calculation of undiscounted net cash flows of a project, 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 25 including the assumptions associated with alternative strategies and the probabilities associated with alternative strategies, could cause a material impairment loss to be recognized when no impairment is otherwise warranted. Our assumptions about the discount rate used in a discounted cash flow estimate of fair value and our judgment with respect to market information could materially affect the decision to record impairment losses or, if required, the amount of the impairment losses. R E V E N U E R E CO G N I T I O N – VA LUAT I O N O F R E C E I VA B L E S Notes and accounts receivable are reduced by an allowance for amounts that may become uncollectible in the future. We review our receivables regularly for potential collection problems in computing the allowance to record against our receivables. This review requires us to make certain judgments regarding collectibility, notwithstanding the fact that ultimate collections are inherently difficult to predict. Economic conditions fluctuate over time, and we have tenants in many different industries which experience changes in economic health, making collectibility prediction difficult. Therefore, certain receivables currently deemed collectible could become uncollectible, and those reserved could ultimately be collected. A change in judgments made could result in an adjustment to the allowance for doubtful accounts with a corresponding effect on net income. I N V E S T M E N T I N J O I N T V E N T U R E S We hold ownership interests in a number of joint ventures with varying structures. We evaluate all of our joint ventures and other variable interests to determine if the entity is a variable interest entity (“VIE”), as defined in accounting rules. If the venture is a VIE, and if we determine that we are the primary beneficiary, we consolidate the assets, liabilities, and results of operations of the VIE. We quarterly reassess our conclusions as to whether the entity is a VIE and whether consolidation is appropriate as required under the rules. For entities that are not determined to be VIEs, we evaluate whether or not we have control or significant influence over the joint venture to determine the appropriate consolidation and presentation. Generally, entities under our control are consolidated, and entities over which we can exert significant influence, but do not control, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. We use judgment to determine whether an entity is a VIE, whether we are the primary beneficiary of the VIE, and whether we exercise control over the entity. If we determine that an entity is a VIE and we are the primary beneficiary or if we conclude that we exercise control over the entity, the balance sheets and statements of operations would be significantly different than if we concluded otherwise. In addition, VIEs require different disclosures in the notes to the financial statements than entities that are not VIEs. We may also change our conclusions and, thereby, change our balance sheets, statements of comprehensive income, and notes to the financial statements, based on facts and circumstances that arise after the original consolidation determination is made. These changes could include additional equity contributed to entities, changes in the allocation of cash flow to entity partners, and changes in the expected results within the entity. We perform an impairment analysis of the recoverability of our investments in joint ventures on a quarterly basis. As part of this analysis, we first determine whether there are any indicators of impairment in any joint venture investment. If indicators of impairment are present for any of our investments in joint ventures, we calculate the fair value of the investment. If the fair value of the investment is less than the carrying value of the investment, we must determine whether the impairment is temporary or other than temporary, as defined by GAAP. If we assesses the impairment to be temporary, we do not record an impairment charge. If we conclude that the impairment is other than temporary, we record an impairment charge. We use considerable judgment in the determination of whether there are indicators of impairment present and in the assumptions, estimations, and inputs used in calculating the fair value of the investment. These judgments are similar to those outlined above in the impairment of real estate assets. We also use judgment in making the determination as to whether the impairment is temporary or other than temporary by considering, among other things, the length of time that the impairment has existed, the financial condition of the joint venture, and the ability and intent of the holder to retain the investment long enough for a recovery in market value. Our judgment as to the fair value of the investment or on the conclusion of the nature of the impairment could have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. I N CO M E TA X E S – VA LUAT I O N A L LOWA N C E We establish a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets if, based on the available evidence, it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized. The realization of a deferred tax asset ultimately depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income in either the carryback or carryforward periods under tax law. We periodically assesses the need for valuation allowances for deferred tax assets based on the “more likely than not” realization the assessment, appropriate threshold criterion. In 26 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T consideration is given to all positive and negative evidence related to the realization of the deferred tax assets. This assessment requires considerable judgment by management and includes, among other matters, the nature, frequency, and severity of current and cumulative losses, forecasts of future profitability, the duration of statutory carryforward periods, our experience with operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, and tax planning alternatives. If management determines that we require a valuation allowance on our deferred tax assets, income tax expense or benefit could be materially different than if we determine no such valuation allowance is necessary. R E COV E R I E S F R O M T E N A N T S Recoveries from tenants for operating expenses are determined on a calendar year and on a lease-by-lease basis. The most common types of cost reimbursements in our leases are utility expenses, building operating expenses, real estate taxes, and insurance, for which the tenant pays its pro rata share in excess of a base year amount, if applicable. The computation of these amounts is complex and involves numerous judgments, including the interpretation of lease terms and other customer lease provisions. Leases are not uniform in dealing with such cost reimbursements and there are many variations in the computation. We accrue income related to these payments each month. We make monthly accrual adjustments, positive or negative, to recorded amounts to our best estimate of the annual amounts to be billed and collected with respect to the cost reimbursements. After the end of the calendar year, we compute each customer’s final cost reimbursements and, after considering amounts paid by the tenant during the year, issue a bill or credit for the appropriate amount to the tenant. The differences between the amounts billed less previously received payments and the accrual adjustments are recorded as increases or decreases to revenues when the final bills are prepared, which occurs during the first half of the subsequent year. S TO C K- B A S E D CO M P E N S AT I O N We have several types of stock-based compensation plans. These plans are described in note 13, as are the accounting policies by type of award. Compensation cost for all stock- based awards requires measurement at estimated fair value on the grant date, and compensation cost is recognized over the service vesting period, which represents the requisite service period. For compensation plans that contain market performance measures, we must estimate the fair value of the awards on a quarterly basis and must adjust compensation expense accordingly. The fair values of these awards are estimated using complex pricing valuation models that require a number of estimates and assumptions. For awards that are based on our future earnings, we must estimate future earnings and adjust the estimated fair value of the awards accordingly. We use considerable judgments in determining the fair value of these awards. Compensation expense associated with these awards could vary significantly based upon these estimates. D I S C U S S I O N O F N E W ACCO U N T I N G P R O N O U N C E M E N T S In the first quarter of 2016, the Company adopted ASU 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”). In accordance with ASU 2015-03, the Company began recording deferred financing costs related to its mortgage notes payable as a reduction in the carrying amount of its notes payable on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company reclassified $2.5 million in deferred financing costs from other assets to notes payable in its December 31, 2015 consolidated balance sheet to conform to the current period’s presentation. Deferred financing costs related to the Company’s unsecured revolving credit facility continue to be included in other assets within the Company’s balance sheets in accordance with ASU 2015-15 “Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements.” In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting.” Under this ASU, the additional paid-in capital pool is eliminated, and an entity recognizes all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement. This ASU also eliminated the requirement to defer recognition of an excess tax benefit until all benefits are realized through a reduction to taxes payable. This ASU also changes the treatment of excess tax benefits as operating cash flows in the statement of cash flows. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 with early adoption permitted. The Company expects to adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2017, and is currently assessing the potential impact of adopting the new guidance. In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases,” which amends the existing standards for lease accounting by requiring lessees to recognize most leases on their balance sheets and making targeted changes to lessor accounting and reporting. The new standard will require lessees to record a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases with a term of greater than 12 months and classify such leases as either finance or operating leases based on the principle of whether or not the lease is effectively a financed purchase of the leased asset by the lessee. This classification will determine whether the lease 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 27 expense is recognized based on an effective interest method (finance leases) or on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease (operating leases). Leases with a term of 12 months or less will be accounted for similar to existing guidance for operating leases. The new standard requires lessors to account for leases using an approach that is substantially equivalent to existing guidance for sales-type leases, direct financing leases and operating leases. ASU 2016-02 supersedes previous leasing standards. The guidance is effective for the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. The Company expects to adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2019, and is currently assessing the potential impact of adopting the new guidance. The impact of the adoption of this new guidance, if any, will be recorded retrospectively to all financial statements presented. In 2015, the FASB issued ASC 2015-02 “Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis.” All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. The amendment modifies the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities or voting interest entities. It also eliminates the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership. The guidance is effective for public entities with periods beginning after December 15, 2015 with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2016, and it did not have material impact on the consolidated financial statements. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” Under the new guidance, companies will recognize revenue when the seller satisfies a performance obligation, which would be when the buyer takes control of the good or service. This new guidance could result in different amounts of revenue being recognized and could result in revenue being recognized in different reporting periods than under the current guidance. The new guidance specifically excludes revenue associated with lease contracts. ASU 2015-14, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” was subsequently issued modifying the effective date to periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted for periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The standard allows for either “full retrospective” adoption, meaning the standard is applied to all of the periods presented, or “modified retrospective” adoption, meaning the standard is applied only to the most recent period presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently assessing this guidance for future implementation and potential impact of adoption. The Company expects to adopt this guidance using the “modified retrospective” method effective January 1, 2018. Results of Operations For The Three Years Ended December 31, 2016 G E N E R A L Our financial results have been significantly affected by the merger with Parkway (the “Merger”) and the spin-off of the combined companies’ Houston business to New Parkway (the “Spin-Off”) (collectively, the “Parkway Transactions”) that occurred in October 2016. Our financial results have also been affected by various purchase and sale transactions during the periods. During 2014, we purchased Fifth Third Center and Northpark Town Center (collectively, the “2014 Acquisitions”). During 2014, we sold 600 University Park Place and Lakeshore Park Plaza which were considered discontinued operations (the “2014 Discontinued Operations Properties”). In addition, we sold Mahan Village, and 777 Main (collectively, the “2014 Dispositions”) which were not considered discontinued operations. During 2015, we sold 2100 Ross, The Points at Waterview, and 200, 333, and 555 North Point Center East (collectively, the “2015 Dispositions”). During 2016, we sold 100 North Point Center East and One Ninety One Peachtree (collectively, the “2016 Dispositions”). Accordingly, our historical financial statements may not be indicative of future operating results. N E T O P E R AT I N G I N CO M E The following results include the performance of our Same Property portfolio. Our Same Property portfolio includes office properties that have been fully operational in each of the comparable reporting periods. A fully operational property is one that has achieved 90% economic occupancy for each of the periods presented or has been substantially complete and owned by us for each of the periods presented. Same Property amounts for the 2016 versus 2015 comparison are from properties that were owned as of January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2016. Same Property amounts for the 2015 versus 2014 comparison are from properties that were owned as of January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2015. This information includes revenues and expenses of only consolidated properties. We use Net Operating Income (“NOI”), a non-GAAP financial measure, to measure operating performance of our properties. NOI is also widely used by industry analysts and investors to evaluate performance. NOI, which is rental property revenues less rental property operating expenses, excludes certain components from net income in order to provide results that are more closely related to a property’s results of operations. Certain items, such as interest expense, while included in net income, do not affect the operating performance of a real estate asset and 28 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T are often incurred at the corporate level as opposed to the property level. As a result, management uses only those income and expense items that are incurred at the property level to evaluate a property’s performance. Depreciation and amortization are also excluded from NOI. Same Property NOI allows analysts, investors, and management to analyze continuing operations and evaluate the growth trend of our portfolio. NOI increased $39.2 million between the 2016 and 2015 periods as follows: Rental Property Revenues Same Property Non-Same Property Rental Property Operating Expenses Same Property Non-Same Property Same Property NOI Non-Same Property NOI Total NOI Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 $ Change % Change $ 71,802 178,012 $ 249,814 $ 30,783 66,125 $ 96,908 $ 41,019 111,887 $ 69,012 127,232 $ 196,244 $ 30,402 52,143 $ 82,545 $ 38,610 75,089 $ 152,906 $ 113,699 $ 2,790 50,780 $53,570 $ 381 13,982 $14,363 $ 2,409 36,798 $39,207 4.0 % 39.9 % 27.3 % 1.3 % 26.8 % 17.4 % 6.2 % 49.0 % 34.5 % The increase in Same Property NOI was primarily driven by increases in revenues as a result of higher occupancy at 816 Congress and Promenade. Same Property operating expense increased due to these higher occupancy levels. The increase in Non-Same Property NOI is primarily due to the Parkway Transactions offset by the 2016 and 2015 Dispositions. NOI increased $26.5 million between the 2015 and 2014 periods as follows: Rental Property Revenues Same Property Non-Same Property Rental Property Operating Expenses Same Property Non-Same Property Same Property NOI Non-Same Property NOI Total NOI Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 $ Change % Change $ 81,696 114,548 $ 196,244 $ 36,596 45,949 $ 82,545 $ 45,100 68,599 $ 78,151 85,972 $ 164,123 $ 35,720 41,243 $ 76,963 $ 42,431 44,729 $ 3,545 28,576 $ 32,121 $ $ $ 876 4,706 5,582 2,669 23,870 $ 113,699 $ 87,160 $ 26,539 4.5% 33.2% 19.6% 2.5% 11.4% 7.3% 6.3% 53.4% 30.4% The increase in Same Property NOI was primarily driven by an increase in revenues as a result of higher occupancy at Promenade. In addition, Promenade had lower expense due to operating expense savings in 2015. The increase in Non- Same Property NOI is primarily due to the commencement of operations at Colorado Tower and the 2014 Acquisitions, offset by decreases from the 2015 and 2014 Dispositions. F E E I N CO M E Fee income increased $1.1 million (14.4%) between 2016 and 2015 and decreased $5.2 million (41.7)% between 2015 and 2014. Fee income was higher in 2016 as a result of the recognition of additional development and leasing fees from joint venture properties. Fee income for 2014 was higher than 2015 because the 2014 amount includes a $4.5 million participation interest related to a contract that was assumed in the acquisition of an entity several years ago. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 29 G E N E R A L A N D A D M I N I S T R AT I V E E X P E N S E S General and administrative expenses increased $8.7 million (51.3%) between 2016 and 2015 and decreased $2.9 million (14.5%) between 2015 and 2014 primarily as a result of fluctuations in stock-based compensation expense due to the volatility in our stock price relative to office peers included in the SNL US Office REIT Index. I N T E R E S T E X P E N S E Interest expense increased $3.9 million (17.2%) between 2016 and 2015 primarily as a result of mortgage loans assumed in the Parkway Transactions and as a result of the Company obtaining new mortgage loans on Colorado Tower and Fifth Third Center. Interest expense increased $1.8 million (8.3%) between 2015 and 2014 primarily as a result of the 816 Congress loan which closed in 2014 and higher higher average borrowings under the Credit Facility. These increases were partially offset by higher capitalized interest as a result of increased development expenditures. D E P R E C I AT I O N A N D A M O R T I Z AT I O N Depreciation and amortization increased $26.3 million (36.8%) between 2016 and 2015 primarily due to the Parkway Transactions. Depreciation and amortization increased $9.4 million (15.0%) between 2015 and 2014 primarily due to increases related to the 2014 Acquisitions. ACQ U I S I T I O N A N D R E L AT E D CO S T S Included in acquisition and related costs in 2016 are the costs associated with the Parkway Transactions. These costs included legal, accounting and financial advisory fees as well as the cost of due diligence work and the costs of combining the operations of Parkway with the Company. Costs included in acquisition and related costs in 2014 were related to the 2014 Acquisitions. OT H E R E X P E N S E Other expense increased $4.7 million between 2016 and 2015 as a result of an impairment loss recorded on residential land. Other expense decreased $2.5 million between 2015 and 2014 primarily as a result of a decrease in predevelopment expenses. I N CO M E F R O M U N CO N S O L I DAT E D J O I N T V E N T U R E S Income from unconsolidated joint ventures consisted of the following in 2016, 2015 and 2014: Net operating income Other income Depreciation and amortization Interest expense Land sales gain Other gains Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 $ 28,784 4,106 (13,905) (8,423) — — $ 24,335 787 (11,645) (7,455) 2,280 — $ 25,896 717 (11,913) (7,364) 2,165 1,767 $ 10,562 $ 8,302 $ 11,268 joint ventures Income from unconsolidated increased between 2016 and 2015 primarily because of an increase in net operating income resulting from two unconsolidated joint ventures acquired as a part of the Parkway Transactions and an increase in lease termination fees, offset by increases in depreciation and amortization expense and interest expense due to the Parkway Transactions. Income from unconsolidated joint ventures decreased between 2015 and 2014 primarily because of a gain on the sale of our investment in Cousins Watkins LLC in 2014. G A I N O N S A L E O F I N V E S T M E N T P R O P E R T I E S Included in gain on sale of investment properties in 2016 are gains recognized on the 2016 Dispositions as well as the sale of 20 acres of commercial land in our Northpoint project. The combined sales prices of the 2016 Dispositions represents a weighted average capitalization rate of 6.7%. Included in gain on sale of investment properties in 2015 are gains recognized on the 2015 Dispositions. The combined sales prices of the 2015 Dispositions represent a weighted average capitalization rate of 6.5%. Included in gain on sale of investment properties in 2014 are gains recognized on the 2014 Dispositions. The combined sales prices of the 2014 Dispositions and the 2014 Discontinued Operations Properties represent a weighted average capitalization rate of 6.3%. Capitalization rates are calculated by dividing projected annualized NOI by the sales price. D I S CO N T I N U E D O P E R AT I O N S Discontinued operations contains the operations of Post Oak Central and Greenway Plaza (the “Houston Properties”), two of our properties that were included in the Spin-Off. Because we decided to exit the Houston market in connection with the Parkway Transactions, the Spin-Off represents a strategic shift that has a significant impact on our operations. As such, the Spin-Off of these properties qualify for discontinued operations treatment. The operations of the Houston Properties have been reclassified into discontinued 30 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T operations for all periods presented. In addition, in 2014 we sold Lakeshore Park Plaza and 600 University Place, both located in Birmingham, Alabama, and these properties qualified for discontinued operations treatment at that time. Included in discontinued operations for 2014 is a gain on the sale of these two properties. Income from discontinued operations increased in 2015 then decreased in 2016 because we purchased the Houston Properties in 2014 and the Spin- Off occurred in 2016. Thus, 2015 represented the only full year of operations for these assets in our financial statements. N E T I N CO M E AT T R I B U TA B L E TO N O N CO N T R O L L I N G I N T E R E S T S Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests includes the outside parties’ share of the net income of CPLP as well as that of certain other consolidated entities. P R E F E R R E D S TO C K O R I G I N A L I S S UA N C E CO S T S In 2014, we redeemed all outstanding shares of our 7.5% Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock. In connection with this redemption, net income available for common shareholders decreased by $3.5 million (non-cash), which represented the original issuance costs applicable to the shares redeemed. F U N D S F R O M O P E R AT I O N S The table below shows Funds from Operations Available to Common Stockholders (“FFO”), a non-GAAP financial measure, and the related reconciliation to net income available to common stockholders for the Company. The Company calculates FFO in accordance with the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts’ (“NAREIT”) definition, which is net income available to common in accordance with GAAP), stockholders (computed excluding extraordinary items, cumulative effect of change in accounting principle and gains on sale or impairment losses on depreciable property, plus depreciation and amortization of real estate assets, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures to reflect FFO on the same basis. FFO is used by industry analysts and investors as a supplemental measure of a REIT’s operating performance. Historical cost accounting for real estate assets implicitly assumes that the value of real estate assets diminishes predictably over time. Since real estate values instead have historically risen or fallen with market conditions, many industry investors and analysts have considered presentation of operating results for real estate companies that use historical cost accounting to be insufficient by themselves. Thus, NAREIT created FFO as a supplemental measure of REIT operating performance that excludes historical cost depreciation, among other items, from GAAP net income. The use of FFO, combined with the required primary GAAP presentations, has been fundamentally beneficial, improving the understanding of operating results of REITs among the investing public and making comparisons of REIT operating results more meaningful. Our management evaluates operating performance in part based on FFO. Additionally, our management uses FFO, along with other measures, to assess performance in connection with evaluating and granting incentive compensation to our officers and other key employees. The reconciliation of net income (loss) available to common stockholders to FFO is as follows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 (in thousands, except per share information): Net Income Available to Common Stockholders Depreciation and amortization of real estate assets: Consolidated properties Discontinued properties Share of unconsolidated joint ventures Partners' share of real estate depreciation (Gain) loss on sale of depreciated properties: Consolidated properties Discontinued properties Share of unconsolidated joint ventures Non-controlling interest related to unit holders Funds From Operations Per Common Share — Diluted: Net Income Available Funds From Operations Weighted Average Shares — Diluted Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 $ 79,109 $125,518 $ 45,519 96,583 47,345 13,904 (3,564) (73,533) — — 784 70,003 63,791 11,645 — (78,759) 551 — — 61,391 77,760 11,915 — (30,188) — (1,767) 574 $160,628 $192,749 $165,204 $ $ 0.31 0.63 $ $ 0.58 0.89 $ $ 0.22 0.81 256,023 215,979 204,460 31 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D Net Operating Income Company management evaluates the performance of its property portfolio in part based on NOI. NOI represents rental property revenues less rental property operating expenses. NOI is not a measure of cash flows or operating results as measured by GAAP, is not indicative of cash available to fund cash needs and should not be considered an alternative to cash flows as a measure of liquidity. All companies may not calculate NOI in the same manner. The Company considers NOI to be an appropriate supplemental measure to net income as it helps both management and investors understand the core operations of the Company’s operating assets. NOI excludes corporate general and administrative expenses, interest expense, depreciation and amortization, impairments, gains/loss on sales of real estate, and other non-operating items. The following reconciles NOI to Net Income each of the periods presented (in thousands): Net Income Fee income Other income Reimbursed expenses General and administrative expenses Interest expense Depreciation and amortization Acquisition and merger costs Other expenses Loss on extinguishment of debt Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Gain on sale of investment properties Income from discontinued operations Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 $ 80,104 (8,347) (1,050) 3,259 25,592 26,650 97,948 24,521 5,888 5,180 (10,562) (77,114) (19,163) $ 125,629 (7,297) (828) 3,430 16,918 22,735 $ 53,008 (12,519) (919) 3,652 19,784 20,983 71,625 62,258 299 1,181 — (8,302) (80,394) (31,297) 1,130 3,729 — (11,268) (12,536) (40,122) Net Operating Income $ 152,906 $ 113,699 $ 87,180 – – – – proceeds from mortgage notes payable; proceeds from equity offerings; issuance of CPLP limited partnership units; and joint venture formations. F I N A N C I A L CO N D I T I O N A key component of our strategy is to maintain a conservative balance sheet with leverage that enables us to be positioned for future growth. Our conservative balance sheet was a factor in our ability to complete the Parkway Transactions. Our debt to total market capitalization ratio at December 31, 2016 was 32.3% and as of December 31, 2015 it was 32.2%. We expect to further reduce indebtedness in 2017 and may do so with property sales and/or common stock issuances. As of December 31, 2016, we had $134.0 million outstanding under our Credit Facility, and had the ability to borrow an additional $365.0 million under the Credit Facility. Liquidity and Capital Resources Our primary short-term and long-term liquidity needs include the following: – – – – – – property acquisitions; expenditures on development projects; building improvements, tenant improvements, and leasing costs; principal and interest payments on indebtedness; repurchase of our common stock; and common stock dividends. We may satisfy these needs with one or more of the following: net cash from operations; sales of assets; borrowings under our Credit Facility; proceeds from unsecured debt; – – – – 32 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T Contractual Obligations and Commitments At December 31, 2016, we were subject to the following contractual obligations and commitments (in thousands): Contractual Obligations: Company debt: Unsecured Credit Facility Term Loan Mortgage notes payable Interest commitments (1) Ground leases Other operating leases Total Less than 1 Year 1-3 Years 3-5 Years More than 5 years $ 134,000 250,000 994,676 203,898 209,770 1,382 $ — $134,000 — — 42,395 495,916 58,201 47,247 4,642 2,320 688 475 $ — $ 250,000 45,082 49,557 4,646 219 — — 411,283 48,893 198,162 — Total contractual obligations $1,793,726 $545,958 $239,926 $349,504 $658,338 Commitments: Unfunded development and tenant improvement commitments Letters of credit, performance bonds 135,696 3,824 135,696 3,167 Total commitments $ 139,520 $138,863 $ — 657 657 — — $ — $ — — — (1) Interest on variable rate obligations is based on rates effective as of December 31, 2016. In addition, we have several standing or renewable service contracts mainly related to the operation of our buildings. These contracts were entered into in the ordinary course of business and are generally one year or less. These contracts are not included in the above table and are usually reimbursed in whole or in part by tenants. D E BT A S S O C I AT E D W I T H T H E M E R G E R A N D S P I N - O F F In connection with the Merger, we assumed $635.2 million of mortgage debt at a weighted average stated interest rate of 5.2%. Subsequent to the Merger and before December 31, 2016, we repaid $251.9 million of this assumed mortgage debt, which included the legal defeasance of a $20.2 million mortgage loan. In connection with the Spin-Off, we distributed the Post Oak Central mortgage note to New Parkway on October 7, 2016. In the Merger, we assumed $550 million in Parkway unsecured term debt, received proceeds from a $350 million senior secured term loan and repaid the $550 million in unsecured term debt. In the Spin-Off, we distributed the $350 million senior secured term loan to New Parkway. OT H E R M O R TG AG E LOA N I N FO R M AT I O N In 2016, we had the following mortgage loan activity: – – Entered into a $120.0 million non-recourse mortgage loan secured by Colorado Tower, a 373,000 square foot office building in Austin, Texas. The mortgage bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.45% and matures September 1, 2026. Entered into a $150.0 million non-recourse mortgage loan secured by Fifth Third Center, a 698,000 square foot office building in Charlotte, North Carolina. The mortgage bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.37% and matures October 1, 2026. – Repaid the 191 Peachtree Tower mortgage loan in full in connection with a sale of the building and paid a $3.7 million prepayment penalty. In 2015, we prepaid, without penalty, the $14.2 million The Points at Waterview mortgage note. The note was scheduled to mature on January 1, 2016. Our existing mortgage debt is primarily non-recourse, fixed- rate mortgage loans secured by various real estate assets. Many of our non-recourse mortgages contain covenants which, if not satisfied, could result in acceleration of the maturity of the debt. We expect to either refinance the non-recourse mortgage loans at maturity or repay the mortgage loans with proceeds from other financings. As of December 31, 2016, the weighted average interest rate on our consolidated debt was 4.25%. As a result of the Parkway Transactions, we assumed four non-recourse mortgage loans with an aggregate principal amount of $360.0 million that mature in 2017. In addition, we have one additional non-recourse mortgage loan with a principal balance of $127.5 million that matures in 2017. While we do not currently have the liquid funds available to satisfy the obligations, we expect to repay these loans when they mature with a combination of sources of capital including, but not limited to, asset sales, unsecured debt, mortgage loans on these or other properties, or issuance of common equity. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 33 C R E D I T FAC I L I T Y I N FO R M AT I O N We maintain a $500 million Credit Facility that matures in May 2019. The Credit Facility may be expanded to $750 million. The Credit Facility bears interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a spread, based on our leverage ratio, as defined in the Credit Facility. At December 31, 2016, we had $134.0 million drawn on the facility and a total available borrowing capacity of $365.0 million. The amount that we may draw is a defined calculation based on our unencumbered assets and other factors and is reduced by both letters of credit and borrowings outstanding. The Credit Facility includes customary events of default, including, but not limited to, the failure to pay any interest or principal when due, the failure to perform under covenants of the credit agreement, incorrect or misleading representations or warranties, insolvency or bankruptcy, change of control, the occurrence of certain ERISA events and certain judgment defaults. The amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility may be accelerated upon an event of default. The Credit Facility contains restrictive covenants pertaining to our operations, including limitations on the amount of debt that may be incurred, the sale of assets, transactions with affiliates, dividends and distributions. The Credit Facility also includes certain financial covenants (as defined in the agreement) that require, among other things, the maintenance of an unencumbered interest coverage ratio of at least 2.00; a fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.50; and a leverage ratio of no more than 60%. We are currently in compliance with our financial covenants. T E R M LOA N During 2016, we obtained a $250 million Term Loan that matures on December 2, 2021. The Term Loan contains financial covenants consistent with those of the Credit Facility. The Term Loan bears interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a spread, based on our leverage ratio, as defined in the Term Loan. The Term Loan’s covenants are consistent with those of the Credit Facility. F U T U R E C A P I TA L R E Q U I R E M E N T S Over the long term, we intend to actively manage our portfolio of properties and strategically sell assets to exit our non-core holdings, reposition our portfolio of income- producing assets geographically, and generate capital for future investment activities. We expect to continue to utilize indebtedness to fund future commitments as well as utilize construction facilities for some development assets, if available and under appropriate terms. We may also generate capital through the issuance of securities that include common or preferred stock, warrants, debt securities, depositary shares or the issuance of CPLP limited partnership units. In January 2017, we filed a shelf registration statement to allow for the issuance from time to time of such securities. Management will continue to evaluate all public equity sources and select the most appropriate options as capital is required. Our business model is dependent upon raising or recycling capital to meet obligations. If one or more sources of capital are not available when required, we may be forced to reduce the number of projects we acquire or develop and/or raise capital on potentially unfavorable terms, or may be unable to raise capital, which could have an adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations. Cash Flows We report and analyze our cash flows based on operating activities, investing activities and financing activities. Cash and cash equivalents were $35.7 million, $2.0 million, and $0 at December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. The following table sets forth the changes in cash flows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 2016 to 2015 Change 2015 to 2014 Change Net cash provided by operating activities $ 111,282 $ 151,661 $ 142,400 $ (40,379) $ 9,261 Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 460,939 38,482 (461,615) 422,457 500,097 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (538,537) (188,140) 318,240 (350,397) (506,380) The reasons for significant increases and decreases in cash flows between the periods are as follows: C a s h F l ows f ro m O p e ra t i n g Ac t i v i t i e s Cash provided by operating activities decreased $40.4 million between the 2016 and 2015 periods primarily as a result of payment of expenses associated with the Parkway Transactions and the timing of payment of property expenses. Cash provided by operating activities increased $9.3 million between the 2015 and 2014 periods primarily as a result of an increase in cash provided from property operations. 34 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C a s h F l ows f ro m I nve st i n g Ac t i v i t i e s Cash flows provided by investing activities increased $422.5 million between the 2016 and 2015 periods primarily from assets sales in 2016. Cash flows from investing activities increased $500.1 million between the 2015 and 2014 period primarily as a result of decreases in acquisition, development and tenant expenditures between the periods. C a s h F l ows f ro m F i n a n c i n g Ac t i v i t i e s Cash flows used in financing activities decreased $350.4 million between the 2016 and 2015 periods primarily as a result of an increase in payments to noncontrolling interest holders and cash distributed to New Parkway in connection with the Spin-Off. Cash flows from financing activities decreased $506.4 million between 2015 and 2014 periods, primarily as a result of a decrease in proceeds from common stock offerings and a decrease in net proceeds from indebtedness. C A P I TA L E X P E N D I T U R E S We incur capital expenditures related to our real estate assets that include acquisition of properties, development of new properties, redevelopment of existing or newly purchased properties, leasing costs for new or replacement tenants and ongoing property repairs and maintenance. Capital expenditures for assets we develop or acquire and then hold and operate are included in the property acquisition, development, and tenant asset expenditures line item within investing activities on the statements of cash flows. Amounts accrued are removed from the table below (accrued capital expenditures adjustment) to show the components of these costs on a cash basis. Components of expenditures included in this line item for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (in thousands): Acquisition of property Projects under development Operating properties—leasing costs Operating properties—building improvements Land held for investment Capitalized interest Capitalized salaries Accrued capital expenditures adjustment $ 2016 — 109,760 50,030 30,718 — 4,696 6,248 (7,918) $ 2015 — 52,015 28,052 83,615 8,098 3,579 7,146 2,483 2014 $551,153 63,911 10,431 76,296 — 2,535 6,821 (404) Total property acquisition, development and tenant asset expenditures $193,534 $184,988 $710,743 Capital expenditures increased $8.5 million between 2016 and 2015 primarily due to an increase in projects under development and leasing costs, offset by a decrease in building improvement expenditures. Capital expenditures decreased $525.8 million between 2015 and 2014, mainly due to decreased operating property acquisition activity. Leasing costs, as well as some of the tenant improvements and capitalized personnel costs, are a function of the number and size of executed new and renewed leases. The amount of tenant improvements and leasing costs on a per square foot basis for 2016, 2015 and 2014 were as follows: New leases Renewal leases Expansion leases 2016 2015 2014 $ 6.10 $ 3.88 $5.90 $2.15 $ 6.84 $ 3.23 $ 5.51 $6.32 $ 5.59 The amounts of tenant improvement and leasing costs on a per square foot basis vary by lease and by market. Given the level of expected leasing and renewal activity, in future periods, we expect tenant improvements and leasing costs per square foot to remain consistent with those experienced during 2016. D i v i d e n d s We paid dividends on our common stock of $50.5 million, $69.2 million, and $61.6 million in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. In 2014, we also paid $3.0 million in dividends on preferred stock. We funded these dividends with cash provided by operating activities. We declared and paid our fourth quarter 2016 dividend in the amount of $0.06 per share in January 2017, which accounts for the decrease in common dividends paid in 2016 as compared to 2015. We expect to fund our quarterly distributions to common stockholders with cash provided by operating activities, proceeds from investment property sales, distributions from unconsolidated joint ventures and indebtedness, if necessary. On a quarterly basis, we review the amount of our common dividend in light of current and projected future cash provided by operating activities and also consider the requirements needed to maintain our REIT status. In addition, we have certain covenants under our Credit Facility which could limit the amount of common dividends paid. In general, common dividends of any amount can be paid as long as leverage, as defined in the facility, is less than 60% and we are not in default under our facility. Certain conditions also apply in which we can still pay common dividends if leverage is 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 35 above that amount. We routinely monitor the status of our common dividend payments in light of the Credit Facility covenants. In the first quarter of 2015, we increased the quarterly common dividend from $0.075 per share to $0.080 per share. In the fourth quarter of 2016, we decreased the quarterly common dividend to $0.060 per share. E F F E C T S O F I N F L AT I O N We attempt to minimize the effects of inflation on income from operating properties by providing periodic fixed- rent increases or increases based on the Consumer Price Index and/or pass-through of certain operating expenses of properties to tenants or, in certain circumstances, rents tied to tenants’ sales. Off Balance Sheet Arrangements General. We have a number of off balance sheet joint ventures with varying structures, as described in note 6 to consolidated financial statements. Most of the joint ventures in which we have an interest are involved in the ownership and/or development of real estate. A venture will fund capital requirements or operational needs with cash from operations or financing proceeds. If additional capital is deemed necessary, a venture may request a contribution from the partners, and we will evaluate such request. Except as previously discussed, based on the nature of the activities conducted in these ventures, management cannot estimate with any degree of accuracy amounts that we may be required to fund in the short or long-term. However, management does not believe that additional funding of these ventures will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. indebtedness Debt. At December 31, 2016, our unconsolidated joint to ventures had aggregate outstanding third parties of $526.5 million. These loans are generally mortgage or construction loans, most of which are non- recourse to us, except as described below. In addition, in certain instances, we provide “non-recourse carve-out guarantees” on these non-recourse loans. Certain of these loans have variable interest rates, which creates exposure to the ventures in the form of market risk due to interest rate changes. At December 31, 2016, $6.3 million of debt at our unconsolidated joint ventures were recourse to us. We guarantee repayment of up to $3.4 million of the EP II LLC construction loan, which has a maximum amount available of $46.0 million. At December 31, 2016, we guaranteed $8.6 million based on amounts outstanding as of that date under this loan. This guarantee may be reduced and/or eliminated based on achievement of certain criteria. We also guarantee 12.5% of the loan amount related to the Carolina Square construction loan, which has a lending capacity of $79.8 million, and $23.7 million outstanding as of December 31, 2016. I T E M 7 A . Q U A N T I T A T I V E A N D Q U A L I T A T I V E D I S C L O S U R E A B O U T M A R K E T R I S K Our primary exposure to market risk results from our debt, which bears interest at both fixed and variable rates. We attempt to mitigate this risk by limiting our debt exposure in total and our maturities in any one year and weighting more towards fixed-rate debt in our portfolio. The fixed rate debt obligations limit the risk of fluctuating interest rates, and generally are mortgage loans secured by certain of our real estate assets. As a result of the Parkway Transactions, we assumed four non-recourse mortgage loans with an aggregate principal amount of $360.0 million that mature in 2017. In addition, we have one additional non-recourse mortgage loan with a principal balance of $127.5 million that matures in 2017. We expect to repay these loans when they mature with a combination of sources of capital including, but not limited to, asset sales, unsecured debt, mortgage loans on these or other properties, or issuance of common equity. At December 31, 2016, we had $994.7 million of fixed rate debt outstanding at a weighted average interest rate of 4.87%. At December 31, 2015, we had $629.3 million of fixed rate debt outstanding at a weighted average interest rate of 4.57%. The amount of fixed-rate debt outstanding increased and the weighted average interest rate increased from 2015 to 2016 as a result of the loans assumed in the Parkway Transactions having higher rates than the loans we had at December 31, 2015. See note 9 of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information regarding 2016 debt activity. 36 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T At December 31, 2016, we had $384.0 million of variable rate debt outstanding, which consisted of the Credit Facility with an outstanding balance of $134.0 million at a weighted average interest rate of 1.87% and a $250.0 million term loan with a weighted average interest rate of 1.97%. As of December 31, 2015, we had $92.0 million of variable rate debt outstanding which consisted of the Credit Facility at a weighted average interest rate of 1.53%. Based on our average variable rate debt balances in 2016, interest incurred would have increased by $2.3 million in 2016 if these interest rates had been 1% higher. The following table summarizes our market risk associated with notes payable as of December 31, 2016. It includes the principal maturing, an estimate of the weighted average interest rates on those expected principal maturity dates and the fair values of the Company’s fixed and variable rate notes payable. Fair value was calculated by discounting future principal payments at estimated rates at which similar loans could have been obtained at December 31, 2016. The information presented below should be read in conjunction with note 9 of notes to consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We did not have a significant level of notes receivable at December 31, 2016, and the table does not include information related to notes receivable. ($ in thousands) 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Thereafter Total Estimated Fair Value Notes Payable: Fixed Rate Average Interest Rate Variable Rate Average Interest Rate (1) $ 495,916 $ 9,348 $ 33,047 $33,826 $ 11,256 $411,283 $994,676 $1,013,139 $ 5.99% 3.43% — $ — — — 4.01% $134,000 $ 1.87% 6.00% — —% —% $250,000 $ 1.97% 3.66% — — 4.87% $384,000 $ 384,000 1.73% (1) Interest rates on variable rate notes payable are equal to the variable rates in effect on December 31, 2016. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 37 I T E M 8 . F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S A N D S U P P L E M E N T A R Y D A T A The consolidated financial statements, notes to consolidated financial statements, and report of independent registered public accounting included on pages F-1 through F-33. firm are The following selected quarterly financial information (unaudited) for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included herein (in thousands, except per share amounts): 2016 Revenues Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Gain (loss) on sale of investment properties Income from continuing operations Discontinued operations Net income Net income attributable to controlling interest Net income available to common stockholders Basic and diluted net income per common share 2015 Revenues Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Gain (loss) on sale of investment properties Income from continuing operations Discontinued operations Net income Net income attributable to controlling interest Net income available to common stockholders Basic and diluted net income per common share Quarters First Second Third Fourth $47,942 1,834 14,190 14,694 8,101 22,796 22,796 22,796 0.11 $ (Unaudited) $48,305 1,784 (246) 242 7,523 7,765 7,765 7,765 0.04 $ $48,672 1,527 — 2,920 8,737 11,657 11,657 11,657 0.06 $ Quarters $ 114,292 5,418 63,169 43,085 (5,198) 37,887 36,892 36,892 0.10 $ First Second Third Fourth (Unaudited) $52,667 1,761 (576) 27 7,925 7,951 7,951 7,951 0.04 $ $52,873 3,716 37,145 44,739 8,881 53,620 53,620 53,620 0.25 $ $ 49,913 1,214 42,720 47,361 9,494 56,855 56,744 56,744 0.27 $ $ 48,915 1,611 1,105 2,206 4,997 7,203 7,203 7,203 0.03 $ The above quarterly information may not sum to full year information due to rounding. Other financial statements and financial statement schedules required under Regulation S-X are filed pursuant to item 15 of part IV of this report. The amounts presented in 2015 have been restated from previous period presentations due to reclassifications related to discontinued operations. See note 3 in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for further detail. During 2016 and 2015, our quarterly results varied as a result of the timing of the sales of assets, which generated gains within quarters of each year and as a result of the effects of the Parkway Transactions. These gains were recorded within gain (loss) on sale of investment properties, income (loss) from discontinued operations and income from unconsolidated joint ventures. 38 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T I T E M 9 . C H A N G E S I N A N D D I S A G R E E M E N T S W I T H A C C O U N T A N T S O N A C C O U N T I N G A N D F I N A N C I A L D I S C L O S U R E Not applicable. I T E M 9 A . C O N T R O L S A N D P R O C E D U R E S We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management necessarily applied judgment in assessing the costs and benefits of such controls and procedures, which, by their nature, can provide only reasonable assurance regarding our control objectives. As of the end of the period covered by this annual report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer along with the Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness, design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)). Based upon the foregoing, the Chief Executive Officer along with the Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective. In addition, based on such evaluation we have identified no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with GAAP. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements. Management, under the supervision of and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016. The framework on which the assessment was based is described in “Internal Control – Integrated Framework” (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, we concluded that we maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016. Deloitte & Touche, our independent registered public accounting firm, issued an opinion on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, which follows this report of management. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 39 R E P O R T O F I N D E P E N D E N T R E G I S T E R E D P U B L I C ACCO U N T I N G F I R M To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Cousins Properties Incorporated Atlanta, Georgia We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Cousins Properties Incorporated and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements. Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended December 31, 2016 of the Company and our report dated February 20, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule and included an explanatory paragraph regarding the Company’s change in method of accounting for and disclosure of discontinued operations and disposals of components of an entity due to the adoption of a new accounting standard. /s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP Atlanta, Georgia February 20, 2017 40 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T I T E M 9 B . O T H E R I N F O R M A T I O N None. P A R T I I I I T E M 1 0 . D I R E C T O R S , C O R P O R A T E G O V E R N A N C E E X E C U T I V E O F F I C E R S A N D The information required by Items 401, 405, 406, and 407 of Regulation S-K is presented in item X in part I above and is included under the captions “Proposal 1 - Election of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the Proxy Statement relating to the 2017 Annual Meeting of the Registrant’s Stockholders, and is incorporated herein by reference. The Company has a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (the “Code”) applicable to its Board of Directors and all of its employees. The Code is publicly available on the “Investor Relations” page of its website site at www.cousinsproperties.com. Section 1 of the Code applies to the Company’s senior executive and financial officers and is a “code of ethics” as defined by applicable SEC rules and regulations. If the Company makes any amendments to the Code other than technical, administrative or other non-substantive amendments, or grants any waivers, including implicit waivers, from a provision of the Code to the Company’s senior executive or financial officers, the Company will disclose on its website the nature of the amendment or waiver, its effective date and to whom it applies. There were no amendments or waivers during 2016. I T E M 1 1 . E X E C U T I V E C O M P E N S A T I O N The information required by Items 402 and 407 of Regulation S-K is included under the captions “Executive Compensation” “Director Compensation” and “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in the Proxy Statement relating to the 2017 Annual Meeting of the Registrant’s Stockholders is incorporated herein by reference. I T E M 1 2 . S E C U R I T Y O W N E R S H I P O F C E R T A I N B E N E F I C I A L O W N E R S A N D M A N A G E M E N T A N D R E L A T E D S T O C K H O L D E R M A T T E R S The information under the captions “Beneficial Ownership of Common Stock” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in the Proxy Statement relating to the 2017 Annual Meeting of the Registrant’s Stockholders is incorporated herein by reference. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 41 I T E M 1 3 . C E R T A I N R E L A T I O N S H I P S A N D R E L A T E D T R A N S A C T I O N S , A N D D I R E C T O R I N D E P E N D E N C E The information under the caption “Certain Transactions” and “Director Independence” in the Proxy Statement relating to the 2017 Annual Meeting of the Registrant’s Stockholders is incorporated herein by reference. I T E M 1 4 . P R I N C I P A L A C C O U N T A N T F E E S A N D S E R V I C E S The information under the caption “Summary of Fees to Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in the Proxy Statement relating to the 2017 Annual Meeting of the Registrant’s Stockholders has fee information for fiscal years 2016 and 2015 and is incorporated herein by reference. P A R T I V I T E M 1 5 . E X H I B I T S A N D F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S C H E D U L E S (a) 1. Financial Statements A. The following consolidated financial statements of the Registrant, together with the applicable report of independent registered public accounting firm, are filed as a part of this report: Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Consolidated Balance Sheets—December 31, 2016 and 2015 Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Consolidated Statements of Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 2. Financial Statement Schedule The following financial statement schedule for the Registrant is filed as a part of this report: A. Schedule III—Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation—December 31, 2016 Page Number F-2 F-3 F-4 F-5 F-6 F-7 Page Number S-1 through S-3 NOTE: Other schedules are omitted because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because the required information is given in the financial statements or notes thereto. 42 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T (b) Exhibits 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 3.1 3.1.1 3.1.2 3.1.3 3.1.4 3.1.5 3.2 Purchase and Sale Contract for Northpark Town Center, dated as of August 1, 2014, by and between FulcoProp400LLC and FulcoProp56 LLC and Cousins Acquisitions Entity, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Registrant, filed as Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 and incorporated herein by reference. (Schedules and exhibits omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. The Registrant agrees to furnish supplementally a copy of any omitted exhibit or schedule to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.) Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated April 28, 2016, by and among Parkway Properties, Inc., Parkway Properties LP, Cousins Properties Incorporated and Clinic Sub Inc., filed as Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant’s Current Form on Form 8-K filed on April 29, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference. Separation, Distribution and Transition Services Agreement, dated as of October 5, 2016, by and among the Registrant, Cousins Properties LP, Clinic Sub Inc., Parkway Properties, Inc., Parkway Properties LP, Parkway Properties General Partners, Inc., Parkway, Inc. and Parkway Operating Partnership LP., filed as Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant’s Current Form on Form 8-K filed on October 6, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference. Tax Matters Agreement, dated as of October 5, 2016, by and among the Registrant, Cousins Properties LP, Clinic Sub Inc., Parkway Properties, Inc., Parkway Properties LP, Parkway Properties General Partners, Inc., Parkway, Inc. and Parkway Operating Partnership LP., filed as Exhibit 2.2 to the Registrant’s Current Form on Form 8-K filed on October 6, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference. Employee Matters Agreement, dated as of October 5, 2016, by and among the Registrant, Cousins Properties LP, Clinic Sub Inc., Parkway Properties, Inc., Parkway Properties LP, Parkway Properties General Partners, Inc., Parkway, Inc. and Parkway Operating Partnership LP., filed as Exhibit 2.3 to the Registrant’s Current Form on Form 8-K filed on October 6, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference. Restated and Amended Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant, as amended August 9, 1999, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2002, and incorporated herein by reference. Articles of Amendment to Restated and Amended Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant, as amended July 22, 2003, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 23, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference. Articles of Amendment to Restated and Amended Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant, as amended December 15, 2004, filed as Exhibit 3(a)(i) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference. Articles of Amendment to Restated and Amended Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant, dated May 4, 2010, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 10, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference. Articles of Amendment to Restated and Amended Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant, as amended May 9, 2014, filed as Exhibit 3.1.4 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014, and incorporated herein by reference. Articles of Amendment to Restated and Amended Articles of Incorporation of Cousins, as amended October 6, 2016, filed as Exhibit 3.1 and 3.1.1 to the Registrant’s Current Form on Form 8-K filed on October 7, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference. Bylaws of the Registrant, as amended and restated December 4, 2012, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 7, 2012, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(i)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 1999 Incentive Stock Plan, as amended and restated, approved by the Stockholders on May 6, 2008, filed as Annex B to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement dated April 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 43 10(a)(ii)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 9, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(iii)* Amendment No. 1 to Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(iii) to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(iv)* 10(a)(v)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 1999 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Key Employee Non-Incentive Stock Option and Stock Appreciation Right Certificate, amended effective December 6, 2007, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(vi) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference. Cousins Properties Incorporated 1999 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Key Employee Incentive Stock Option and Stock Appreciation Right Certificate, amended effective December 6, 2007, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(vii) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(vi)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan – Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 11, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(vii)* Amendment No. 2 to the Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 18, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(viii)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan – Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate for Directors, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 18, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(ix)* Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 31, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(x)* Amendment No. 1 to the Cousins Properties Incorporated 1999 Incentive Stock Plan, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(ii) to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xi)* 10(a)(xii)* Amendment No. 4 to the Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan dated September 8, 2008, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xiii) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference. Amendment No. 5 to the Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan dated February 16, 2009, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xiv) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xiii)* Form of Amendment Number One to Change in Control Severance Agreement filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 12, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xiv)* Amendment Number 6 to the Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 12, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xv)* Form of Cousins Properties Incorporated Cash Long Term Incentive Award Certificate filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 12, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xvi)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan, as approved by the Stockholders on May 12, 2009, filed as Annex B to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement dated April 3, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference. 44 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T 10(a)(xvii)* Cousins Properties Incorporated Director Non-Incentive Stock Option and Stock Appreciation Right Certificate under the Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xviii)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan – Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate for 2010-2012 Performance Period filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xx) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xix)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Key Employee Non-Incentive Stock Option Certificate filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxi) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xx)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Stock Grant Certificate filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxii) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxi)* Form of New Change in Control Severance Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 7, 2011, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxii)* Form of Amendment Number Two to Change in Control Severance Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 7, 2011, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxiii)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Stock Grant Certificate filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxv) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxiv)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Key Employee Non-Incentive Stock Option Certificate filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxvi) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxv)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Key Employee Incentive Stock Option Certificate filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxvii) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxvi)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan – Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate for 2011-2013 Performance Period filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxviii) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxvii)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan – Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate for 2012-2016 Performance Period filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxviii)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Key Employee Incentive Stock Option Certificate filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxix)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan – Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate for 2012-2016 Performance Period, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxx)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Stock Grant Certificate, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 3, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxxi)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan — Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate for 2014-2016 Performance Period, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxxi) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013, and incorporated herein by reference. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 45 10(a)(xxxii)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Stock Grant Certificate, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxxii) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxxiii)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan — Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate for 2015- 2017 Performance Period, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxxiii) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxxiv)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan — Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate for 2016- 2018 Performance Period, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxxiv) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxxv)* Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Stock Grant Certificate, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxxv) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxxvi)* Form of Amendment Number One to Change in Control Severance Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10(a)(xxxvi) to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, and incorporated herein by reference. 10(a)(xxxvii)*† Cousins Properties Incorporated 2005 Restricted Stock Unit Plan — Form of Restricted Stock Unit Certificate for 2017- 2019 Performance Period. 10(a)(xxxviii)*† Cousins Properties Incorporated 2009 Incentive Stock Plan – Form of Stock Grant Certificate. 10(g) 10(h) 10(i) 10(j) 10(k) 10(l)† Form of Indemnification Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K dated June 18, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference. Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of May 28, 2014, among Cousins Properties Incorporated as the Borrower (and the Borrower Parties, as defined, and the Guarantors, as defined); JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Syndication Agent and an L/C Issuer; Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Swing Line Lender and an L/C Issuer; SunTrust Bank as Documentation Agent and an L/C Issuer; Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., PNC Bank, N. A., U.S. Bank National, N. A., Citizens Bank, N.A. and Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. as Co-Documentation Agents; The Northern Trust Company, First Tennessee Bank N.A. and Atlantic Capital Bank as Other Lender Parties; J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. and SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc. as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 28, 2014, and incorporated herein by reference. First Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2016, among the Registrant, the co-borrowers from time to time party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Form on Form 8-K filed on June 7, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference. Agreement of Limited Partnership of Cousins Properties LP., filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Form on Form 8-K filed on October 7, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference. Stockholders Agreement, dated April 28, 2016, by and among Cousins Properties Incorporated, TPG VI Pantera Holdings, L.P. and TPG VI Management, LLC, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Form on Form 8-K filed on April 29, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference. Second Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December 1, 2016, among the Registrant, the co-borrowers from time to time party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent. 10(m)† Term Loan Agreement, dated as of December 2, 2016, among the Registrant, the co-borrowers from time to time party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent. 46 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T 11 21† 23† 31.1† 31.2† 32.1† 32.2† 101† Computation of Per Share Earnings. Data required by SFAS No. 128, “Earnings Per Share,” is provided in note 16 of notes to consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and incorporated herein by reference. Subsidiaries of the Registrant. Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002. Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002. Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The following financial information for the Registrant, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the condensed consolidated balance sheets, (ii) the condensed consolidated statements of operations, (iii) the condensed consolidated statements of equity, (iv) the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows, and (v) the notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. * † Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement. Filed herewith. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 47 S I G N A T U R E S Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. Dated: February 20, 2017 Cousins Properties Incorporated (Registrant) BY: /s/ Gregg D. Adzema Gregg D. Adzema Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Duly Authorized Officer and Principal Financial Officer) Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated. Signature /s/ Lawrence L. Gellerstedt III Lawrence L. Gellerstedt III /s/ Gregg D. Adzema Gregg D. Adzema /s/ John D. Harris, Jr. John D. Harris, Jr. /s/ Robert M. Chapman Robert M. Chapman /s/ Charles T. Cannada Charles T. Cannada /s/ Edward M. Casal Edward M. Casal /s/ Kelvin M. Davis Kelvin M. Davis /s/ Lillian C. Giornelli Lillian C. Giornelli /s/ S. Taylor Glover S. Taylor Glover /s/ Donna W. Hyland Donna W. Hyland /s/ Brenda J. Mixson Brenda J. Mixson 48 Capacity Chief Executive Officer, President and Director (Principal Executive Officer) Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer, Treasurer and Assistant Secretary (Principal Accounting Officer) Director Director Director Director Director Date February 20, 2017 February 20, 2017 February 20, 2017 February 20, 2017 February 20, 2017 February 20, 2017 February 20, 2017 February 20, 2017 Chairman of the Board of Directors February 20, 2017 Director Director February 20, 2017 February 20, 2017 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T I N D E X T O C O N S O L I D A T E D F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S Cousins Properties Incorporated Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Consolidated Balance Sheets—December 31, 2016 and 2015 Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Consolidated Statements of Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Page F-2 F-3 F-4 F-5 F-6 F-7 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-1 R E P O R T O F I N D E P E N D E N T R E G I S T E R E D P U B L I C ACCO U N T I N G F I R M To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Cousins Properties Incorporated: Atlanta, Georgia We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Cousins Properties Incorporated and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of operations, equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Cousins Properties Incorporated and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein. As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, during the second quarter of 2014, the Company changed its method of accounting for and disclosure of discontinued operations and disposals of components of an entity due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Update 2014-08, “Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity”. We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 20, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. /s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP Atlanta, Georgia February 20, 2017 F-2 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T CO U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N CO R P O R AT E D A N D S U B S I D I A R I E S CO N S O L I DAT E D B A L A N C E S H E E T S ( i n t h o u s a n d s , exce p t s h a re a n d p e r s h a re a m o u n t s) ASSETS: REAL ESTATE ASSETS: Operating properties, net of accumulated depreciation of $215,856 and $352,350 in 2016 and 2015, respectively Projects under development Land Real estate assets and other assets held for sale, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $7,200 in 2015 Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Notes and accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,167 and $1,353 in 2016 and 2015, respectively Deferred rents receivable Investment in unconsolidated joint ventures Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $53,483 and $103,458 in 2016 and 2015, respectively Other assets Total assets LIABILITIES: Notes payable Accounts payable and accrued expenses Deferred income Intangible liabilities, net of accumulated amortization of $12,227 and $26,890 in 2016 and 2015, respectively Other liabilities Liabilities of real estate assets held for sale Total liabilities Commitments and contingencies EQUITY: Stockholders' investment: Preferred stock, $1 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized, 6,867,357 and 0 shares issued and outstanding in 2016 and 2015, respectively Common stock, $1 par value, 700,000,000 shares authorized, 403,746,938 and 220,255,676 shares issued in 2016 and 2015, respectively Additional paid-in capital Treasury stock at cost, 10,329,082 and 8,742,181 shares in 2016 and 2015, respectively Distributions in excess of cumulative net income Total stockholders' investment Nonredeemable noncontrolling interests Total equity Total liabilities and equity See notes to consolidated financial statements. December 31, 2016 2015 $ 3,432,522 162,387 4,221 3,599,130 $2,194,781 27,890 17,829 2,240,500 — 35,687 15,634 27,683 39,464 179,397 245,529 29,083 7,246 2,003 4,304 10,828 67,258 102,577 124,615 35,989 $ 4,171,607 $2,595,320 $ 1,380,920 109,278 33,304 89,781 44,084 — 1,657,367 $ 718,810 71,739 29,788 59,592 30,629 1,347 911,905 6,867 — 403,747 3,407,430 (148,373) (1,214,114) 2,455,557 220,256 1,722,224 (134,630) (124,435) 1,683,415 58,683 — 2,514,240 1,683,415 $ 4,171,607 $2,595,320 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-3 CO U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N CO R P O R AT E D A N D S U B S I D I A R I E S CO N S O L I DAT E D S TAT E M E N T S O F O P E R AT I O N S ( I n t h o u s a n d s , exce p t p e r s h a re a m o u n t s) REVENUES: Rental property revenues Fee income Other COSTS AND EXPENSES: Rental property operating expenses Reimbursed expenses General and administrative expenses Interest expense Depreciation and amortization Acquisition and merger costs Other Loss on extinguishment of debt Income (loss) from continuing operations before benefit for income taxes, income from unconsolidated joint ventures, and gain on sale of investment properties Benefit for income taxes from operations Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Income (loss) from continuing operations before gain on sale of investment properties Gain on sale of investment properties Income from continuing operations Income (loss) from discontinued operations: Income from discontinued operations Income (loss) on sale from discontinued operations Income from discontinued operations Net income Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to controlling interests Preferred share original issuance costs Dividends to preferred stockholders Net income available to common stockholders PER COMMON SHARE INFORMATION — BASIC: Income from continuing operations for common stockholders Income from discontinued operations for common stockholders Net income available to common stockholders PER COMMON SHARE INFORMATION — DILUTED: Income from continuing operations for common stockholders Income from discontinued operations for common stockholders Net income available to common stockholders Weighted average shares — basic Weighted average shares — diluted Dividends declared per common share See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-4 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 $249,814 8,347 1,050 259,211 $196,244 7,297 828 204,369 $164,123 12,519 919 177,561 96,908 3,259 25,592 26,650 97,948 24,521 5,888 280,766 (5,180) (26,735) — 10,562 (16,173) 77,114 60,941 19,163 — 19,163 80,104 (995) 79,109 — — $ 79,109 $ $ $ $ 0.24 0.07 0.31 0.24 0.07 0.31 82,545 3,430 16,918 22,735 71,625 299 1,181 198,733 — 5,636 — 8,302 13,938 80,394 94,332 31,848 (551) 31,297 125,629 (111) 125,518 — — $125,518 $ $ $ $ 0.44 0.14 0.58 0.44 0.14 0.58 76,963 3,652 19,784 20,983 62,258 1,130 3,729 188,499 — (10,938) 20 11,268 350 12,536 12,886 20,764 19,358 40,122 53,008 (1,004) 52,004 (3,530) (2,955) $ 45,519 $ $ $ $ 0.02 0.20 0.22 0.02 0.20 0.22 253,895 215,827 204,216 256,023 215,979 204,460 $ 0.24 $ 0.32 $ 0.30 CO U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N CO R P O R AT E D A N D S U B S I D I A R I E S CO N S O L I DAT E D S TAT E M E N T S O F E Q U I T Y ( I n t h o u s a n d s) Preferred Stock Common Stock Additional Paid-In Capital Treasury Stock Distributions in Excess of Cumulative Net Income Stockholders’ Investment Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interests Total Equity BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2013 $ 94,775 $193,236 $1,420,951 $ (86,840) $ (164,721) $ 1,457,401 $ 1,571 $ 1,458,972 Net income Common stock issued pursuant to: 52,004 52,004 1,004 53,008 Common stock offering, net of issuance costs Stock based compensation Amortization of stock options and restricted stock, net of forfeitures Distribution to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests — — — — Redemption of preferred shares (94,775) Preferred dividends Common dividends ($0.30 per share) — — 26,700 295,196 156 (706) (9) 2,001 — — — — — 3,530 — — — — — — — — — — — — — 321,896 (550) 1,992 — — — — (2,575) (3,530) (2,955) (94,775) (2,955) (61,555) (61,555) — — — 321,896 (550) 1,992 (2,575) (94,775) (2,955) (61,555) BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2014 $ — $220,083 $1,720,972 $ (86,840) $ (180,757) $ 1,673,458 $ — $ 1,673,458 Net income Common stock issued pursuant to stock based compensation Amortization of stock options and restricted stock, net of forfeitures Distributions to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests Repurchase of common stock Common dividends ($0.32 per share) Other BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2015 Net income — — — — — — — — 173 — — — — — — (245) 1,473 — — — 24 — — — — (47,790) — — 125,518 125,518 111 125,629 — — — — (69,196) — (72) 1,473 — (47,790) (69,196) 24 — — (111) — — — (72) 1,473 (111) (47,790) (69,196) 24 $ $ — $220,256 $1,722,224 $(134,630) $ (124,435) $ 1,683,415 — $ — $ — $ — $ 79,109 $ 79,109 $ $ — $ 1,683,415 995 $ 80,104 Securities issued in merger 6,867 183,207 1,683,076 Noncontrolling interest in assets acquired in merger Common stock issuance pursuant to stock based compensation Spin-off of New Parkway Amortization of stock options and restricted stock, net of forfeitures Common stock redemption by unit holders Contributions from nonredeemable noncontrolling interests Distributions to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests Repurchase of common stock Common dividends ($0.24 per share) — — — — — — — — — — 280 — (35) 39 — — — — — — — — — — — — 1,873,150 76,858 1,950,008 — — — 292,337 292,337 504 — 504 (1,118,240) (1,118,240) (22,821) (1,141,061) — — — 1,648 262 — (262) 1,648 — — 4,126 4,126 — 224 — 1,683 223 — — — — (13,743) — — — — (50,548) — (13,743) (50,548) (292,550) — — (292,550) (13,743) (50,548) BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2016 $ 6,867 $403,747 $3,407,430 $(148,373) $(1,214,114) $ 2,455,557 $ 58,683 $ 2,514,240 See notes to consolidated financial statements. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-5 CO U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N CO R P O R AT E D A N D S U B S I D I A R I E S CO N S O L I DAT E D S TAT E M E N T S O F C A S H F LOWS ( I n t h o u s a n d s) CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Gain on sale of investment properties, including discontinued operations Loss on extinguishment of debt Depreciation and amortization, including discontinued operations Amortization of deferred financing costs and discount on notes payable Stock-based compensation expense, net of forfeitures Effect of certain non-cash adjustments to rental revenues Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Operating distributions from unconsolidated joint ventures Land and multi-family cost of sales, net of closing costs paid Other Changes in other operating assets and liabilities: Change in other receivables and other assets, net Change in operating liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from investment property sales Property acquisition, development, and tenant asset expenditures Investment in unconsolidated joint ventures Distributions from unconsolidated joint ventures Investment in preferred stock Cash acquired in merger with Parkway Properties, Inc. Investments in marketable securities Change in notes receivable and other assets Change in restricted cash Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from credit facility Repayment of credit facility Proceeds from notes payable Repayment of notes payable, including prepayment penalties Cash distributed to Parkway, Inc. Common stock issued, net of expenses Repurchase of common stock Redemption of preferred shares Common dividends paid Preferred dividends paid Contributions from noncontrolling interests Other Distributions to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 $ 80,104 $ 125,629 $ 53,008 (77,114) 5,180 145,293 (1,595) 2,152 (25,873) (10,562) 7,764 — 4,526 (79,843) — 135,462 1,423 1,473 (26,475) (8,302) 8,760 — — 2,156 (20,749) (10,937) 4,471 (31,894) — 141,022 604 1,992 (30,039) (11,268) 10,296 302 — (644) 9,021 111,282 151,661 142,400 622,643 (193,534) (28,531) 7,369 (5,000) 63,193 (21,190) (3,241) 19,230 460,939 716,800 (674,800) 870,000 (907,300) (192,755) — (13,743) — (50,548) — 4,126 (4,195) (286,122) (538,537) 33,684 2,003 225,307 (184,988) (9,985) 7,555 — — — 118 475 38,482 355,900 (404,100) — (22,851) — 8 (47,790) — (69,196) — — — (111) (188,140) 2,003 — 244,471 (710,743) (18,342) 26,179 — — — (1,819) (1,361) (461,615) 764,575 (664,450) 85,068 (22,943) — 321,845 — (94,775) (61,555) (2,955) — (3,995) (2,575) 318,240 (975) 975 — CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $ 35,687 $ 2,003 $ See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-6 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T CO U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N CO R P O R AT E D A N D S U B S I D I A R I E S N OT E S TO CO N S O L I DAT E D F I N A N C I A L S TAT E M E N T S 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION Description of Business: Cousins Properties Incorporated (“Cousins”), a Georgia corporation, is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust (“REIT”). Through October 5, 2016, Cousins conducted all of its business on its own account or through wholly or partially owned entities, some of which were consolidated with Cousins and some of which were not consolidated and were accounted for under the equity method. One of the consolidated entities, Cousins TRS Services LLC (“CTRS”) is a taxable entity which owns and manages its own real estate portfolio and performs certain real estate related services for other parties. In connection with a series of transactions with Parkway Properties, Inc. (“Parkway”) and Parkway, Inc. (“New Parkway”), including a merger and spin-off, Cousins Properties LP (“CPLP”) was formed. On October 6, 2016, the closing date of the merger with Parkway, Cousins contributed, or caused to be contributed, all of Parkway’s and Cousins’ assets and liabilities not pertaining to the ownership of real properties in Houston, Texas and certain other businesses of Parkway to CPLP, including CTRS, and began conducting substantially all of its operations through CPLP. Cousins owns approximately 98% of CPLP and consolidates CPLP. Cousins, CPLP, CTRS and their subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) develop, acquire, lease, manage, and own primarily Class A office properties and opportunistic mixed-use developments in Sunbelt markets with a focus on Georgia, Texas, and North Carolina. As of December 31, 2016, the Company’s portfolio of real estate assets consisted of interests in 16.2 million square feet of office space and 786,000 square feet of mixed-use space. Basis of Presentation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its consolidated partnerships and wholly-owned subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The Company presents its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) as outlined in the Financial Accounting Standard Board’s Accounting Standards Codification (the “Codification” or “ASC”). The Codification is the single source of authoritative accounting principles applied by nongovernmental entities in the preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP. For the three years ended December 31, 2016, there were no items of other comprehensive income. Therefore, no presentation of comprehensive income is required. The Company evaluates all partnerships, joint ventures and other arrangements with variable interests to determine if the entity or arrangement qualifies as a variable interest entity (“VIE”), as defined in the Codification. If the entity or arrangement qualifies as a VIE and the Company is determined to be the primary beneficiary, the Company is required to consolidate the assets, liabilities, and results of operations of the VIE. At December 31, 2016, the Company had a joint venture with Callaway Gardens Resort, Inc. (“Callaway”) for the development of residential lots, which was funded fully through Company contributions. Callaway had the right to receive returns, but no obligation to fund any costs or absorb any losses. The Company was the sole decision maker for the venture and the development manager. The Company determined that the joint venture with Callaway was a VIE, and the Company was the primary beneficiary. Therefore, the Company consolidated this joint venture. In January 2017, the Company withdrew from the joint venture and, as a result, recorded an impairment loss of $4.5 million in 2016 which is included in other expense in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Callaway had total assets of $-0- and $4.6 million, respectively, and no significant liabilities. The Company also considers CPLP to be a VIE with the Company as the primary beneficiary. Recently Issued Accounting Standards: In 2015, the FASB issued ASC 2015-02 “Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis.” All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. The amendment modifies the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities or voting interest entities. It also eliminates the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership. The guidance is effective for public entities with periods beginning after December 15, 2015 with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2016, and it did not have material impact on the consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting.” Under this 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-7 ASU, the additional paid-in capital pool is eliminated, and an entity recognizes all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement. This ASU also eliminated the requirement to defer recognition of an excess tax benefit until all benefits are realized through a reduction to taxes payable. This ASU also changes the treatment of excess tax benefits as operating cash flows in the statement of cash flows. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 with early adoption permitted. The Company expects to adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2017, and is currently assessing the potential impact of adopting the new guidance. In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases,” which amends the existing standards for lease accounting by requiring lessees to recognize most leases on their balance sheets and making targeted changes to lessor accounting and reporting. The new standard will require lessees to record a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases with a term of greater than 12 months and classify such leases as either finance or operating leases based on the principle of whether or not the lease is effectively a financed purchase of the leased asset by the lessee. This classification will determine whether the lease expense is recognized based on an effective interest method (finance leases) or on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease (operating leases). Leases with a term of 12 months or less will be accounted for similar to existing guidance for operating leases. The new standard requires lessors to account for leases using an approach that is substantially equivalent to existing guidance for sales-type leases, direct financing leases and operating leases. ASU 2016-02 supersedes previous leasing standards. The guidance is effective for the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. The Company expects to adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2019, and is currently assessing the potential impact of adopting the new guidance. The Company expects to adopt this guidance using the “ modified retrospective” method effective January 1, 2019. In the first quarter of 2016, the Company adopted ASU 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”). In accordance with ASU 2015-03, the Company began recording deferred financing costs related to its mortgage notes payable as a reduction in the carrying amount of its notes payable on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company reclassified $2.5 million in deferred financing costs from other assets to notes payable in its December 31, 2015 consolidated balance sheet to conform to the current period’s presentation. Deferred financing costs related to the Company’s unsecured revolving credit facility continue to be included in other assets within the Company’s balance sheets in accordance with ASU 2015-15 “Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements.” In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” Under the new guidance, companies will recognize revenue when the seller satisfies a performance obligation, which would be when the buyer takes control of the good or service. This new guidance could result in different amounts of revenue being recognized and could result in revenue being recognized in different reporting periods than under the current guidance. The new guidance specifically excludes revenue associated with lease contracts. ASU 2015-14, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” was subsequently issued modifying the effective date to periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted for periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The standard allows for either “full retrospective” adoption, meaning the standard is applied to all of the periods presented, or “modified retrospective” adoption, meaning the standard is applied only to the most recent period presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently assessing this guidance for future implementation and potential impact of adoption. The Company expects to adopt this guidance using the “modified retrospective” method effective January 1, 2018. In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 205-40, “Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern,” which requires management of all entities to evaluate whether there are conditions and events that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the financial statements are issued. The Company adopted ASU 205-40 as of December 31, 2016. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, “Clarifying the Definition of a Business,” which provides a more narrow definition of a business to be used in determining the accounting treatment of an acquisition. As a result, many acquisitions that previously qualified as business combinations will be treated as asset acquisitions. For asset acquisitions, acquisition costs may be capitalized, and the purchase price may be allocated on a relative fair value basis. ASU 2017-01 is effective prospectively for the Company on January 1, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The Company expects that most of its future acquisitions will qualify as asset acquisitions. F-8 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with current year presentation on the consolidated statements of operations and the consolidated statements of equity. Separation expenses on the consolidated statements of operations have been reclassified from general and administrative expenses to other expenses. On the consolidated statements of equity, all components of common stock issued pursuant to stock-based compensation are aggregated into one line item. These changes do not affect the previously reported total costs and expenses in the consolidated statements of operations or the total equity in the consolidated statements of equity for any period. 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES R E A L E S TAT E A S S E T S Cost Capitalization: Costs related to planning, developing, leasing, and constructing a property, including costs of development personnel working directly on projects under development, are capitalized. In addition, the Company capitalizes interest to qualifying assets under development based on average accumulated expenditures outstanding during the period. In capitalizing interest to qualifying assets, the Company first uses the interest incurred on specific project debt, if any, and next uses the Company’s weighted average interest rate for non-project specific debt. The Company also capitalizes interest to investments accounted for under the equity method when the investee has property under development with a carrying value in excess of the investee’s borrowings. To the extent debt exists within an unconsolidated joint venture during the construction period, the venture capitalizes interest on that venture-specific debt. The Company capitalizes interest, real estate taxes, and certain operating expenses on the unoccupied portion of recently completed development properties from the date a project is substantially complete to the earlier of (1) the date on which the project achieves 90% economic occupancy or (2) one year after it is substantially complete. The Company capitalizes direct leasing costs related to leases that are probable of being executed. These costs include commissions paid to outside brokers, legal costs incurred to negotiate and document a lease agreement, and internal costs that are based on time spent by leasing personnel on successful leases. The Company allocates these costs to individual tenant leases and amortizes them over the related lease term. Impairment: For real estate assets that are considered to be held for sale according to accounting guidance or those that are distributed to stockholders in a spin-off, the Company records impairment losses if the fair value of the asset or disposal group net of estimated selling costs is less than the carrying amount. For those long-lived assets that are held and used according to accounting guidance, management reviews each asset for the existence of any indicators of impairment. If indicators of impairment are present, the Company calculates the expected undiscounted future cash flows to be derived from such assets. If the undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the asset, the Company reduces the asset to its fair value and records an impairment loss. Acquisition of Real Estate Assets: The Company records the acquired tangible and intangible assets and assumed liabilities of operating property acquisitions at fair value at the acquisition date. The acquired assets and assumed liabilities for an operating property acquisition generally include but are not limited to: land, buildings and improvements, and identified tangible and intangible assets and liabilities associated with in-place leases, including leasing costs, value of above-market and below-market tenant leases, value of above-market and below-market ground leases, acquired in- place lease values, and tenant relationships, if any. The fair value of land is derived from comparable sales of land within the same submarket and/or region. The fair value of buildings and improvements, tenant improvements, and leasing costs are based upon current market replacement costs and other relevant market rate information. The fair value of the above-market or below-market component of an acquired in-place lease is based upon the present value (calculated using a market discount rate) of the difference between (i) the contractual rents to be paid pursuant to the lease over its remaining term and (ii) management’s estimate of the rents that would be paid using fair market rental rates and rent escalations at the date of acquisition over the remaining term of the lease. The amounts recorded for above-market and below- market ground leases are included in intangible liabilities and intangible assets, respectively, and are amortized on a straight-line basis into rental property revenues over the remaining terms of the applicable leases. The fair value of acquired in-place leases is derived based on management’s assessment of lost revenue and costs incurred for the period required to lease the “assumed vacant” property to the occupancy level when purchased. The amount recorded for acquired in-place leases is included in intangible assets and amortized as an increase to depreciation and amortization expense over the remaining term of the applicable leases. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-9 Depreciation and Amortization: Real estate assets are stated at depreciated cost less impairment losses, if any. Buildings are depreciated over their estimated useful lives, which range generally from 24 to 42 years. The life of a particular building depends upon a number of factors including whether the building was developed or acquired and the condition of the building upon acquisition. Furniture, fixtures and equipment are depreciated over their estimated useful lives of three to five years. Tenant improvements, leasing costs and leasehold improvements are amortized over the term of the applicable leases or the estimated useful life of the assets, whichever is shorter. The Company accelerates the depreciation of tenant assets if it estimates that the lease term will end prior to the termination date. This acceleration may occur if a tenant files for bankruptcy, vacates its premises or defaults in another manner on its lease. Deferred expenses are amortized over the period of estimated benefit. The Company uses the straight-line method for all depreciation and amortization. Discontinued Operations: Beginning in the second quarter 2014, only assets held for sale or disposals representing strategic shifts in operations are reflected in discontinued operations. Prior to 2014, the Company classified the results of operations of all properties that were sold or otherwise qualified as held for sale as discontinued operations if the property’s operations were expected to be eliminated from ongoing operations and the Company would not have any significant continuing involvement in the operations of the property after the sale. During 2015, there were no held for sale assets or disposals that represented a strategic shift in operations. During 2016, the Company spun-off the combined operations of the Company’s and Parkway’s Houston assets into a separate public company. The Company considered this disposition to be a strategic shift in operations and reclassified the historical operations of its Houston business into discontinued operations on the consolidated statements of operations. The Company ceases depreciation of a property when it is categorized as held for sale. I N V E S T M E N T I N J O I N T V E N T U R E S For joint ventures that the Company does not control, but over which it exercises significant influence, the Company uses the equity method of accounting. The Company’s judgment with regard to its level of influence or control of an entity involves consideration of various factors including the form of its ownership interest; its representation in the entity’s governance; its ability to participate in policy-making decisions; and the rights of other investors to participate in the decision-making process, to replace the Company as manager, and/or to liquidate the venture. These ventures are recorded at cost and adjusted for equity in earnings (losses) and cash contributions and distributions. Any difference between the carrying amount of these investments on the Company’s balance sheet and the underlying equity in net assets on the joint venture’s balance sheet is adjusted as the related underlying assets are depreciated, amortized, or sold. The Company generally allocates income and loss from an unconsolidated joint venture based on the venture’s distribution priorities, which may be different from its stated ownership percentage. The Company evaluates the recoverability of its investment in unconsolidated joint ventures in accordance with accounting standards for equity investments by first reviewing each investment for any indicators of impairment. If indicators are present, the Company estimates the fair value of the investment. If the carrying value of the investment is greater than the estimated fair value, management makes an assessment of whether the impairment is “temporary” or “other-than-temporary.” In making this assessment, management considers the following: (1) the length of time and the extent to which fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the entity, and (3) the Company’s intent and ability to retain its interest long enough for a recovery in market value. If management concludes that the impairment is “other than temporary,” the Company reduces the investment to its estimated fair value. interests. N O N CO N T R O L L I N G I N T E R E S T The Company consolidates CPLP and certain joint ventures in which it owns a controlling interest. In cases where the entity’s documents do not contain a required redemption clause, the Company records the partner’s share of the entity in the equity section of the balance sheets in nonredeemable noncontrolling In cases where the entity’s documents contain a provision requiring the Company to purchase the partner’s share of the venture at a certain value upon demand or at a future date, the Company records the partner’s share of the entity in redeemable noncontrolling interests on the balance sheets. The outside partners’ interests in CPLP are redeemable into shares of cash or common stock of the Company in the Company’s sole discretion. Therefore, noncontrolling interests associated with CPLP are considered nonredeemable noncontrolling interests. The noncontrolling partners’ share of all consolidated entities’ income is reflected in net income attributable to noncontrolling interest on the statements of operations. F-10 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T R E V E N U E R E CO G N I T I O N Rental Property Revenues: The Company recognizes contractual revenues from leases on a straight-line basis over the term of the respective lease. Certain of these leases also provide for percentage rents based upon the level of sales achieved by the lessee. Percentage rents are recognized once the specified sales target is achieved. In addition, leases typically provide for reimbursement of the tenants’ share of real estate taxes, insurance, and other operating expenses to the Company. Operating expense reimbursements are recognized as the related expenses are incurred. During 2016, 2015, and 2014, the Company recognized $90.2 million, $93.3 million, and $86.0 million, respectively, in revenues, including discontinued operations, from tenants related to operating expenses. The Company makes valuation adjustments to all tenant- related accounts receivable based upon its estimate of the likelihood of collectibility of amounts due from the tenant. The amount of any valuation adjustment is based on the tenant’s credit and business risk, history of payment, and other factors considered by management. Fee Income: The Company recognizes development, management and leasing fees when earned. The Company recognizes development and leasing fees received from unconsolidated joint ventures and related salaries and other direct costs incurred by the Company as income and expense based on the percentage of the joint venture which the Company does not own. Correspondingly, the Company adjusts the investment in unconsolidated joint ventures asset when fees are paid to the Company by a joint venture in which the Company has an ownership interest. See note 6 for more information related to fee income recognized from unconsolidated joint ventures. Gain on Sale of Investment Properties: The Company recognizes a gain on sale of investment property when the sale of a property is consummated, the buyer’s initial and continuing investment is adequate to demonstrate commitment to pay, any receivable obtained is not subject to future subordination, the usual risks and rewards of ownership are transferred, and the Company has no substantial continuing involvement with the property. If the Company has a commitment to the buyer and that commitment is a specific dollar amount, this commitment is accrued and the gain on sale that the Company recognizes is reduced. If the Company has a construction commitment to the buyer, management makes an estimate of this commitment, defers a portion of the profit from the sale, and recognizes the deferred profit as or when the commitment is fulfilled. I N CO M E TA X E S Cousins has elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). To qualify as a REIT, Cousins must distribute annually at least 90% of its adjusted taxable income, as defined in the Code, to its stockholders and satisfy certain other organizational and operating requirements. It is management’s current intention to adhere to these requirements and maintain Cousins’ REIT status. As a REIT, Cousins generally will not be subject to federal income tax at the corporate level on the taxable income it distributes to its stockholders. If Cousins fails to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, it will be subject to federal income taxes at regular corporate rates (including any applicable alternative minimum tax) and may not be able to qualify as a REIT for four subsequent taxable years. Cousins may be subject to certain state and local taxes on its income and property, and to federal income taxes on its undistributed taxable income. CTRS is a C-Corporation for federal income tax purposes and uses the liability method for accounting for income taxes. Tax return positions are recognized in the financial statements when they are “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained upon examination by the taxing authority. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities result from temporary differences. Temporary differences are differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements that will result in taxable or deductible amounts in future periods. A valuation allowance may be placed on deferred income tax assets, if it is determined that it is more likely than not that a deferred tax asset may not be realized. S TO C K- B A S E D CO M P E N S AT I O N The Company has several types of stock-based compensation plans. These plans are described in note 13, as are the accounting policies by type of award. The Company forfeitures, recognizes compensation expense, net of arising from share-based payment arrangements granted to employees and directors in general and administrative expense in the statements of operations over the related awards’ vesting period, which may be accelerated under the Company’s retirement feature. E A R N I N G S P E R S H A R E ( “ E P S ” ) Net income per share-basic is calculated as net income available to common stockholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, including nonvested restricted stock which has nonforfeitable dividend rights. Net income per share-diluted is calculated as net income available to common stockholders plus noncontrolling interests in CPLP divided by the diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-11 during the period. Diluted weighted average number of common shares uses the same weighted average share number as in the basic calculation and adds the potential dilution that would occur if the outside units in CPLP were converted into the Company’s common stock and stock options (or any other contracts to issue common stock) were exercised and resulted in additional common shares outstanding, calculated using the treasury stock method. The numerator is reduced for the effect of preferred dividends in both the basic and diluted net income per share calculations. Stock options are dilutive when the average market price of the Company’s stock during the period exceeds the option exercise price. C A S H A N D C A S H E Q U I VA L E N T S A N D R E S T R I C T E D C A S H Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly-liquid money market instruments. Highly-liquid money market instruments include securities and repurchase agreements with original maturities of three months or less, money market mutual funds, and United States Treasury Bills with maturities of 30 days or less. Restricted cash primarily represents amounts restricted under debt agreements for future capital expenditures or for specific future operating costs. U S E O F E S T I M AT E S The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. 3. TRANSACTIONS WITH PARKWAY PROPERTIES, INC. On October 6, 2016, pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated April 28, 2016, (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the “Merger Agreement”), by and among Cousins, Parkway and subsidiaries of Cousins and Parkway, Parkway merged with and into a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (the “Merger”), with this subsidiary continuing as the surviving corporation of the Merger. In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, each outstanding share of Parkway common stock and each outstanding share of Parkway limited voting stock was converted into 1.63 shares of Cousins common stock or limited voting preferred stock, respectively. In the Merger, former Parkway common stockholders received approximately 183 million shares of Cousins common stock and Parkway limited voting stockholders received approximately 7 million shares of Cousins limited voting preferred stock. On October 7, 2016, pursuant to the Merger Agreement and the Separation, Distribution and Transition Services Agreement, dated as of October 5, 2016 (the “Separation Agreement”), by and among Cousins, Parkway, New Parkway, and certain other parties thereto, Cousins distributed pro rata to its common and limited voting preferred stockholders, including legacy Parkway common and limited voting stockholders, all of the outstanding shares of common and limited voting stock, respectively, of New Parkway, a newly-formed entity that contains the combined businesses relating to the ownership of real properties in Houston, Texas and certain other businesses of Parkway (the “Spin-Off”). In the Spin-Off, Cousins distributed one share of New Parkway common or limited voting stock for every eight shares of common or limited voting preferred stock of Cousins held of record as of the close of business on October 6, 2016. As a result of the Spin-Off, New Parkway is now an independent public company, and its common stock is listed under the symbol “PKY” on the New York Stock Exchange. In connection with the Merger and Spin-Off, CPLP was formed. As a result of a series of transactions undertaken pursuant to the Separation Agreement (the “Reorganization”), occurring after the Merger but prior to the Spin-Off, substantially all of Parkway’s and the Company’s assets and liabilities not pertaining to the ownership of real properties in Houston, Texas and certain other businesses of Parkway, were contributed to CPLP. As a result of the Merger and Spin-Off, substantially all of the Company’s post-Merger, post-Spin-Off activities are conducted through CPLP. Approximately 98% of the partnership units of CPLP are owned by the Company, and approximately 2% are owned by legacy outside unit holders of Parkway LP (the “Outside Unit Holders”). Ownership of partnership units in CPLP will generally entitle the holder to share in cash distributions from, and in the profits and losses of, CPLP in proportion to such holder’s percentage ownership. The Company acts as the general partner in CPLP and has the exclusive right and full authority and responsibility to manage and operate CPLP’s business. Limited partners generally do not have any right to participate in or exercise control or management power over the business and affairs of CPLP. Limited partners may redeem partnership units for cash, or at the Company’s election, shares of Cousins’ common stock on a one-for-one basis, at any time beginning twelve months following the date of the initial issuance of the partnership units, except for partnership units issued in connection with the Reorganization, which may be redeemed at any time. The Company consolidates the accounts and operations of CPLP in its financial statements. F-12 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T for using The acquisition has been accounted the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC, 805, Business Combinations, with the Company as the accounting acquirer, which requires, among other things, that the assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recognized at their acquisition date fair value. The total value of the transaction is based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on October 5, 2016, the day immediately prior to the closing of the Merger, of $10.19 per share. Based on the shares issued in the transaction and on the units of CPLP effectively issued to the Outside Unit Holders in the transaction, the total fair value of the assets and liabilities assumed in the The purchase price was allocated as follows (in thousands): Merger was $2.0 billion. The Company incurred $24.5 million in expenses related to the merger during the year ended December 31, 2016. Management engaged a third party valuation specialist to assist with the fair value assessment, which included an allocation of the purchase price. The third party used cash flow analysis as well as an income approach and a cost approach to determine the fair value of assets acquired. Based on additional information that may become available, subsequent adjustments may be made to the purchase price allocation within the allocation period, which typically does not exceed one year. Real estate assets Cash Restricted cash Notes and other receivables Investment in unconsolidated joint ventures Intangible assets Other assets Notes payable Accounts payable and accrued expenses Intangible liabilities Other liabilities Nonredeemable noncontrolling interests (excluding CPLP) Total purchase price In the Merger, the Company acquired an interest in a joint venture which it consolidated because it controlled the operations of the joint venture. The outside interests associated with this joint venture are included in noncontrolling interests in the above purchase price allocation. In December 2016, the Company purchased the outside partner’s interest in the joint venture for $279 million. $3,441,859 63,193 30,560 36,388 58,875 330,221 10,549 $3,971,645 $1,473,810 136,934 106,480 12,076 292,337 $2,021,637 $1,950,008 The Merger accounted for $68.7 million of consolidated revenue and $9.0 million in consolidated net income as reported for 2016. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-13 following unaudited The forma information presented is based upon the Company’s historical consolidated statements of operations, adjusted as if the Merger had occurred on January 1, 2015. This supplemental supplemental pro Revenues Income from continuing operations Net income Net income available to common stockholders Per share information: Basic Diluted pro forma information is not necessarily indicative of future results, or of actual results, that would have been achieved had the transactions been consummated at the beginning of each period. 2016 2015 (unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts) $ 732,117 179,625 174,117 166,375 $ 855,318 237,909 237,323 208,574 $ $ 0.42 0.41 $ $ 0.53 0.53 As a result of the Spin-Off, the historical results of operations of the Company’s properties that were contributed to New Parkway have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income. The above pro forma information is presented prior to the discontinued operations reclassification. Discontinued operations also include transaction costs of $6.3 million we incurred in the Spin-Off. The following is a summary of the assets and liabilities transferred to New Parkway as part of the Spin-Off (in thousands): Real estate assets Cash Notes and other receivables Intangible assets Other assets Notes payable Accounts payable and accrued expenses Intangible liabilities Other liabilities Noncontrolling interest Net assets in Spin-off to New Parkway $1,696,080 192,755 43,752 143,294 6,669 $2,082,550 $ 803,769 56,055 59,424 22,241 $ 941,489 22,821 $1,118,240 The following table includes a summary of discontinued operations of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014. In addition to the discontinued operations associated with the Spin-Off, this table includes the discontinued operations of Lakeshore Park Plaza and 600 University Park Place that were sold in 2014. There were no dispositions that met this criteria in 2015. See note 4 for a detail of dispositions during the periods. Rental property revenues Rental property operating expenses Other revenues Interest expense Depreciation and amortization Other expenses Income from discontinued operations Gain (loss) on sale of discontinued operations, net Cash provided by operating activities Cash used in investing activities F-14 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T 2016 2015 2014 $136,927 (58,336) 288 (6,022) (47,345) (6,349) $ 19,163 $ — $ 42,604 $176,828 (73,630) 450 (7,988) (63,791) (21) $ 31,848 $ (551) $ 76,395 $182,714 (80,099) 4,064 (8,127) (77,760) (28) $ 20,764 $ 19,358 $ 81,946 $ (30,067) $ (55,085) $ 6,001 4. REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS D I S P O S I T I O N S The Company sold the following properties in 2016, 2015, and 2014 ($ in thousands): Property Property Type Location Square Feet Sales Price 2016 100 North Point Center East Post Oak Central Greenway Plaza Two Liberty Place 191 Peachtree Lincoln Place The Forum 2015 2100 Ross 200, 333, and 555 North Point Center East The Points at Waterview 2014 777 Main Lakeshore Park Plaza Mahan Village 600 University Park Place (1) Represents properties distributed to New Parkway in the Spin-Off. The Company sold the properties noted above in 2016, 2015, and 2014 as part of its ongoing investment strategy of recycling investment capital to fund investment activity. Real estate assets and related assets held for sale Operating Properties, net of accumulated depreciation of $7,072 Notes and accounts receivable Deferred rents receivable Other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $128 Liabilities of real estate assets held for sale Accounts payable and accrued expenses Deferred Income Other liabilities Office Office Office Office Office Office Office Office Office Office Office Office Retail Office Atlanta Houston Houston Philadelphia Atlanta Miami Atlanta Dallas, TX Atlanta, GA Dallas, TX Ft. Worth, TX Birmingham, AL Tallahassee, FL Birmingham, AL 129,000 1,280,000 4,348,000 941,000 1,225,000 140,000 220,000 844,000 411,000 203,000 980,000 197,000 147,000 123,000 $ 22,000 (1) (1) $ 219,000 $ 267,500 $ 80,000 $ 70,000 $ 131,000 $ 70,300 $ 26,800 $ 167,000 $ 25,000 $ 29,500 $ 19,700 H E L D FO R S A L E As of December 31, 2015, 100 North Point Center East was classified as held for sale. The major classes of assets and liabilities of the property held for sale as of December 31, 2015 were as follows (in thousands): $6,421 210 496 119 $7,246 $ 140 200 1,007 $1,347 ACQ U I S I T I O N S In 2014, the Company acquired Northpark Town Center, a 1.5 million square foot office asset located in Atlanta, Georgia. The gross purchase price for this property was $348.0 million, before adjustments for customary closing costs and other closing credits. The Company incurred $643,000 in acquisition and related costs associated with this acquisition. In 2014, the Company acquired Fifth Third Center, a 698,000 square foot Class A office tower located in the Charlotte, North Carolina central business district. The gross purchase price for this property was $215.0 million, before adjustments for customary closing costs and other closing credits. The Company incurred $328,000 in acquisition and related costs associated with this acquisition. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-15 The following tables summarize allocations of the estimated fair values of the assets and liabilities of the operating property acquisitions discussed above (in thousands): Tangible assets: Land and improvements Building Tenant improvements Other assets Tangible assets Intangible assets: Above-market leases In-place leases Below-market ground leases Total intangible assets Tangible liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued expenses Total tangible liabilities Intangible liabilities: Below-market leases Total intangible liabilities Total net assets acquired supplemental pro following unaudited The forma information is presented for the acquisitions of Northpark Town Center and Fifth Third Center for the year ended December 31, 2014. This pro forma information is based on the Company’s historical consolidated statement of operations, as adjusted, as if the acquisitions had occurred 2014 Northpark Town Center Fifth Third Center $ 24,577 $ 22,863 274,151 21,674 — 163,649 16,781 1,014 320,402 204,307 2,846 30,159 — 33,005 — — (8,018) (8,018) 632 17,096 338 18,066 (1,026) (1,026) (9,374) (9,374) $ 345,389 $211,973 at the beginning of 2013. The supplemental pro forma information is not necessarily indicative of future results or of actual results that would have been achieved had the transactions been consummated at the beginning of 2014 (in thousands, except per share amounts). Revenues Income from continuing operations Net income Net income available to common stockholders Per share information: Basic Diluted 5. NOTES AND ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE At December 31, 2016 and 2015, notes and accounts receivables included the following (in thousands): Notes receivable Allowance for doubtful accounts related to notes receivable Tenant and other receivables Allowance for doubtful accounts related to tenant and other receivables $ 388,791 31,695 52,853 45,364 $ $ 0.22 0.22 2016 2015 $ 3,921 (414) 24,929 (753) $ 414 (414) 11,767 (939) $ 27,683 $ 10,828 F-16 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the fair value of the Company’s notes receivable approximated the cost basis. Fair value was calculated by discounting future cash flows from the notes receivable at estimated rates in which similar loans would have been made at December 31, 2016 and 2015. The estimate of the rate, which is the most significant input in the discounted cash flow calculation, is intended to replicate notes of similar type and maturity. This fair value calculation is considered to be a Level 3 calculation under the accounting guidelines, as the Company utilizes internally generated assumptions regarding current interest rates at which similar instruments would be executed. 6. INVESTMENT IN UNCONSOLIDATED JOINT VENTURES The following information summarizes financial data and principal activities of the Company’s unconsolidated joint ventures. The information included in the following table entitled summary of financial position is as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. The information included in the summary of operations table is for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 (in thousands). SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL POSITION 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 Total Assets Total Debt Total Equity (Deficit) Company’s Investment Terminus Office Holdings EP I LLC EP II LLC Charlotte Gateway Village, LLC HICO Victory Center LP Carolina Square Holdings LP CL Realty, L.L.C. DC Charlotte Plaza LLLP Temco Associates, LLC Wildwood Associates Crawford Long - CPI, LLC Cousins W. Rio Salado, LLC Courvoisier Centre JV, LLC AMCO 120 WT Holdings, LLC Other 58,029 44,969 83,115 70,704 123,531 13,532 15,729 7,872 — 5,284 16,419 29,143 $ 268,242 $ 277,444 $ 207,545 $ 211,216 $ 49,476 $ 56,369 24,172 24,331 104,336 13,229 12,085 7,662 — 5,133 16,354 (46,238) — — — 1,646 58,029 40,910 — 17,536 — 23,741 — — — — 72,822 — 12,852 — 106,500 — — — 2,107 18,962 21,743 116,809 — 13,869 — 34,173 — 7,899 — 17,073 — 4,253 — 16,314 (45,928) — 32,855 — 69,479 9,136 — — — 78,537 67,754 119,054 14,124 66,922 8,047 17,940 4,368 16,351 27,523 59,399 172,197 10,446 — 74,286 $ 25,686 18,551 17,606 11,796 9,506 18,325 3,644 8,937 829 (1,143) (1) (21,866) (1) 52,206 11,782 184 345 $ 29,110 21,502 19,118 11,190 9,138 6,782 3,515 — 977 (1,122)(1) (22,021)(1) — — — 1,245 $ 930,904 $ 644,880 $ 526,458 $ 401,977 $ 366,113 $ 219,079 $ 156,388 $ 79,434 SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS: 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Total Revenues Net Income (Loss) Company’s Share of Net Income (Loss) Terminus Office Holdings EP I LLC EP II LLC Charlotte Gateway Village, LLC HICO Victory Center LP Carolina Square Holdings LP CL Realty, L.L.C. DC Charlotte Plaza LLLP Temco Associates, LLC Wildwood Associates Crawford Long - CPI, LLC Cousins W Rio Salado, LLC Courvoisier Centre JV, LLC Other $ 42,386 $ 40,250 12,558 1,264 33,724 262 — 855 — 9,485 — 12,291 — — — 12,239 5,376 34,156 383 58 567 47 1,343 — 12,113 4,219 3,968 — 39,531 $ 4,608 2,294 12,049 — (1,187) 14,536 376 9 237 45 440 (140) 2,743 3,926 (489) — 33,903 — — 1,573 — 2,155 3,329 11,945 — — 4,841 $ 2,789 3,177 (638) 12,737 204 — 424 — 2,358 (120) 2,820 — — (40) 663 2,583 — 11,645 — — 1,069 — 495 (1,704) 2,775 — — 7,831 $ 2,303 1,684 (878) 2,194 187 — 128 24 502 (70) 1,372 2,906 (93) 303 $ 1,395 2,197 (466) 1,183 102 — 220 — 2,351 (59) 1,416 — — (37) $ 308 1,937 — 1,176 — — 542 — (6) 2,097 1,407 — — 3,807 $116,855 $110,689 $109,326 $27,398 $23,711 $25,357 $10,562 $ 8,302 $ 11,268 (1) Negative balances are included in deferred income on the consolidated balance sheets. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-17 Terminus Office Holdings LLC (“TOH”) – TOH is a 50-50 joint venture between the Company and institutional investors advised by J.P. Morgan Asset Management (“JPM”) which owns and operates two office buildings in Atlanta, Georgia. TOH has two non-recourse mortgage loans totaling $207.5 million that mature on January 1, 2023. The weighted average interest rate on these fixed rate loans is 4.69%. The Company does not consolidate TOH because the Company and its partner share decision making abilities and have joint control over the venture. Operating cash flows and proceeds from capital transactions of TOH are allocated to the partners equally until JPM receives an agreed upon return, after which the Company may receive an additional promoted interest. The assets of the venture in the above table include a cash balance of $3.6 million at December 31, 2016. EP I LLC (“EP I”) – EP I is a joint venture between the Company, with a 75% ownership interest, and Lion Gables Realty Limited Partnership (“Gables”), with a 25% ownership interest, which owns the first phase of Emory Point, a mixed-use property in Atlanta, Georgia. The Company does not consolidate EP I because the Company and Gables share decision making abilities and have joint control over the venture. Operating cash flows and proceeds from capital transactions of EP I are allocated to the partners pro rata based on their percentage ownership interests. EP I has a non-recourse construction loan with an outstanding balance $59.0 million at December 31, 2016, and the loan bears interest at LIBOR plus 1.75%. The loan matures April 9, 2017. The assets of the venture in the above table include a cash balance of $234,000 at December 31, 2016. EP II LLC (“EP II”) – EP II is a joint venture between the Company, with a 75% ownership interest, and Lion Gables Realty Limited Partnership (“Gables”), with a 25% ownership interest. The venture owns the second phase of Emory Point. The Company does not consolidate EP II because the Company and Gables share decision making abilities and have joint control over the venture. Operating cash flows and proceeds from capital transactions of EP II are allocated to the partners pro rata based on their percentage ownership interests. EP II has a construction loan with an outstanding balance of $45.0 million at December 31, 2016, and the loan bears interest at LIBOR plus 1.85%. The loan matures April 9, 2017, and the Company has certain rights to extend the maturity date. The Company and Gables guarantee up to $3.4 million and $1.1 million of the construction loan, respectively. These guarantees may be eliminated after project completion, based on certain conditions. The assets of the venture in the above table include a cash balance of $794,000 at December 31, 2016. Charlotte Gateway Village, LLC (“Gateway”) – Gateway is a 50-50 joint venture between the Company and Bank of America Corporation (“BOA”), which owns and operates Gateway Village, a 1.1 million square foot office building in Charlotte, North Carolina. Through December 1, 2016, Gateway’s net income or loss and cash distributions were allocated to the members as follows: first to the Company so that it received a cumulative compounded return equal to 11.46% on its capital contributions, second to BOA until it received an amount equal to the aggregate amount distributed to the Company, and then 50% to each member. After December 1, 2016, net income and cash flows are allocated 50% to each member. Proceeds from capital transactions are allocated first to BOA in an amount not to exceed $80.9 million, second 50% to each member until the Company receives a 17% internal rate of return, and third 80% to BOA and 20% to the Company. The Company’s total project return on Gateway is ultimately limited to an internal rate of return of 17% on its invested capital. Gateway had a fully-amortizing, non-recourse mortgage loan which matured on December 1, 2016. The assets of the venture in the above table include a cash balance of $3.7 million at December 31, 2016. HICO Victory Center LP (“HICO”) – In 2014, HICO, a joint venture between the Company and Hines Victory Center Associates Limited Partnership (“Hines Victory”), was formed for the purpose of acquiring and subsequently developing an office parcel in Dallas, Texas. Pursuant to the joint venture agreement, all pre-development expenditures, other than land, are funded equally by the partners. The Company funded 75% of the cost of land while Hines Victory funded 25%. If the partners decide to commence construction of an office building, the capital accounts and economics of the venture will be adjusted such that the Company will effectively own at least 90% of the venture and Hines will own up to 10%. As of December 31, 2016, the Company accounted for its investment in HICO under the equity method because it does not control the activities of the venture. If the partners decide to construct an office building within the venture, the Company expects to consolidate the venture. The assets of the venture in the table above include a cash balance of $237,000 at December 31, 2016. Carolina Square Holdings LP (“Carolina Square”) - In 2015, Carolina Square, a 50-50 joint venture between the Company and NR 123 Franklin LLC (“Northwood Ravin”) was formed for the purpose of developing and constructing a mixed-use property in Chapel Hill, North Carolina pursuant to a ground lease. Carolina Square also entered into a construction loan agreement, secured by the project, which is expected to provide up to $79.8 million to fund future construction costs. The loan bears interest at LIBOR F-18 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T plus 1.90% and matures on May 1, 2018. The Company and Northwood Ravin will each guarantee 12.5% of the outstanding loan amount and guarantee completion of the project. As of December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance of the construction loan was $23.7 million. The assets of the venture in the table above include a cash balance of $70,000 at December 31, 2016. CL Realty, L.L.C. (“CL Realty”) – CL Realty is a 50-50 joint venture between the Company and Forestar Realty Inc. (“Forestar”), that owns one parcel of land in Texas and mineral rights associated with one project in Texas. The assets of the venture in the above table include a cash balance of $502,000 at December 31, 2016. DC Charlotte Plaza LLLP (“Charlotte Plaza”) - Charlotte Plaza is a 50-50 joint venture between the Company and Dimensional Fund Advisors (“DFA”) formed to develop DFA’s 282,000 square foot regional headquarters building in Charlotte, North Carolina. Capital contributions and distributions of cash flow are made equally in accordance with each partner’s partnership interest. Charlotte Plaza did not have a cash balance at December 31, 2016. Temco Associates, LLC (“Temco”) – Temco is a 50-50 joint venture between the Company and Forestar, that owns various parcels of land and a golf course in Georgia. The assets of the venture in the above table include a cash balance of $125,000 at December 31, 2016. Wildwood Associates (“Wildwood”) – Wildwood is a 50-50 joint venture between the Company and IBM which owns 22 acres of undeveloped land in the Wildwood Office Park in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2014, Wildwood sold a tract of land resulting in the Company recognizing income from unconsolidated joint ventures of $2.1 million. Of this income, $582,000 represents recognition of deferred income associated with Wildwood’s negative investment. At December 31, 2016, the Company’s investment in Wildwood was a credit balance of $1.1 million. This credit balance resulted from cumulative distributions from Wildwood over time that exceeded the Company’s basis in its contributions, and essentially represents deferred gain not recognized at venture formation. This credit balance will decline as the venture’s remaining land is sold. The Company does not have any obligation to fund Wildwood’s working capital needs. Crawford Long—CPI, LLC (“Crawford Long”) – Crawford Long is a 50-50 joint venture between the Company and Emory University that owns the Emory University Hospital Midtown Medical Office Tower, a 358,000 square foot medical office building located in Atlanta, Georgia. Crawford Long has a $72.8 million, 3.5% fixed rate mortgage note which matures on June 1, 2023. The assets of the venture in the above table include a cash balance of $1.2 million at December 31, 2016. Courvoisier Centre JV, LLC (“Courvoisier”) - Courvoisier is a joint venture between the Company, with a 20% interest, and Spanish Key LLC, with an 80% interest, that owns Courvoisier Centre, a 343,000 square foot, two- building office property in Miami, Florida. Courvoisier has a $106.5 million, 4.6% fixed rate mortgage note which matures on March 1, 2026. The assets of the venture in the above table include a cash balance of $1.7 million at December 31, 2016. Cousins W Rio Salado, LLC (“111 West Rio”) - 111 West Rio, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, owns a 74.6% interest in the American Airlines Building, a 225,000 square foot office building located in the Tempe submarket of Phoenix, Arizona. American Airlines owns the remaining 25.4% interest in the building and through October 31, 2016 leased 100% of the building. In October 2016, American Airlines terminated its lease and entered into an agreement with the Company for the purchase of its interest in the building for $19.6 million on, or before, February 28, 2017. Upon consummation of the purchase of American Airlines’ interest in the building, the Company expects to consolidate the operations of the building in its consolidated financial statements. Also in October 2016, the Company entered into a lease with ADP to lease 100% of the building under a lease that is expected to commence in April 2017. AMCO 120 WT Holdings, LLC (“Cousins AMCO”) - Cousins AMCO is a joint venture between the Company, with a 20% interest, and affiliates of AMLI Residential (“AMLI”), with an 80% interest, to develop a mixed-use property in Decatur, Georgia. The property is expected to contain approximately 30,000 square feet of office space, 10,000 square feet of retail space and 330 apartment units. Initial contributions to the joint venture for the purchase of land were funded entirely by AMLI. Subsequent contributions will be funded in proportion to the members’ percentage interests. The Company accounts for its investment in this joint venture under the equity method as it does not currently control the activities of the venture. The assets of the venture in the above table include a cash balance of $1.5 million at December 31, 2016. At December 31, 2016, the Company’s unconsolidated joint ventures had aggregate outstanding indebtedness to third parties of $513.6 million. These loans are generally mortgage or construction loans, most of which are non-recourse to the Company, except as described above. In addition, in certain instances, the Company provides “non-recourse carve-out guarantees” on these non-recourse loans. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-19 The Company recognized $7.4 million, $6.0 million, and $5.4 million of development, leasing, and management fees, including salary and expense reimbursements, from unconsolidated joint ventures in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. See note 2, fee income, for a discussion of the accounting treatment for fees and reimbursements from unconsolidated joint ventures. 7. INTANGIBLE ASSETS At December 31, 2016 and 2015, intangible assets included the following (in thousands): In-place leases, net of accumulated amortization of $46,899 and $88,035 in 2016 and 2015, respectively Above-market tenant leases, net of accumulated amortization of $6,515 and $15,423 in 2016 and 2015, respectively Below-market ground lease, net of accumulated amortization of $69 in 2016 Goodwill 2016 2015 $185,251 $112,937 40,260 18,344 1,674 8,031 — 3,647 $245,529 $124,615 Intangible assets, other than goodwill, mainly relate to the acquisitions in 2016, 2015, and 2014 (see note 3). Aggregate net amortization expense related to intangible assets and liabilities was $24.0 million, $23.7 million, and $32.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. Over the next five years and thereafter, aggregate amortization of these intangible assets and liabilities is anticipated to be as follows (in thousands): 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Thereafter Below Market Rents Above Market Ground Lease Below Market Ground Lease Above Market Rents In Place Leases Total $(15,591) (14,460) (12,754) (11,532) (9,634) (23,999) $ (46) (46) (46) (46) (46) (1,581) $ 487 470 454 439 425 16,069 $ 9,169 8,225 6,316 5,043 3,805 7,702 $ 47,877 $ 41,896 30,763 21,963 15,904 11,429 32,119 36,574 27,993 22,000 16,879 33,928 $(87,970) $(1,811) $ 18,344 $40,260 $185,251 $ 154,074 Weighted average remaining lease term 7 years 39 years 67 years 6 years 6 years 10 years Goodwill relates entirely to the Company’s office assets. As office assets are sold, either by the Company or by joint ventures in which the Company has an interest, goodwill is allocated to the cost of each sale. The following is a summary of goodwill activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Beginning Balance Allocated to property sales and Spin-Off Ending Balance 2016 $ 3,647 (1,973) $ 1,674 2015 $ 3,867 (220) $ 3,647 F-20 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T 8. OTHER ASSETS At December 31, 2016 and 2015, other assets included the following (in thousands): Furniture, fixtures and equipment, leasehold improvements, and other deferred costs, net of accumulated depreciation of $23,135 and $22,572 in 2016 and 2015, respectively Lease inducements, net of accumulated amortization of $1,278 and $6,865 in 2016 and 2015, respectively Prepaid expenses and other assets Predevelopment costs and earnest money Line of credit deferred financing costs, net of accumulated amortization of $2,264 and $1,380 in 2016 and 2015, respectively 2016 2015 $15,773 $13,523 2,517 8,432 179 2,182 13,306 4,408 1,780 2,972 $29,083 $35,989 Lease inducements represent incentives paid to tenants in conjunction with leasing space, such as moving costs, sublease arrangements of prior space and other costs. These amounts are amortized into rental revenues over the individual underlying lease terms. Predevelopment costs represent amounts that are capitalized related to predevelopment projects that the Company determines are probable of future development. 9. NOTES PAYABLE The following table summarizes the terms of notes payable outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Description Term Loan, unsecured Fifth Third Center Credit Facility, unsecured One Eleven Congress The American Cancer Society Center Colorado Tower Promenade San Jacinto 816 Congress 3344 Peachtree Two Buckhead Plaza Meridian Mark Plaza The Pointe Post Oak Central 191 Peachtree Tower Unamortized premium, net Unamortized loan costs Total Notes Payable Interest Rate Maturity 2016 2015 1.97% 3.37% 1.87% 6.08% 6.45% 3.45% 4.27% 6.05% 3.75% 4.75% 6.43% 6.00% 4.01% 4.26% 3.35% 2021 $ 250,000 $ 2026 2019 2017 2017 2026 2022 2017 149,516 134,000 128,000 127,508 120,000 105,342 101,000 — — 92,000 — 129,342 — 108,203 — 2024 2017 2017 2020 2019 2020 2018 84,872 85,000 78,971 52,000 — — 24,522 24,978 22,945 — — 181,770 — 100,000 $1,378,676 $721,293 6,792 — (4,548) (2,483) $1,380,920 $718,810 C R E D I T FAC I L I T Y The Company has a $500 million senior unsecured line of credit (the “Credit Facility”) that matures on May 28, 2019. The Credit Facility may be expanded to $750 million at the election of the Company, subject to the receipt of additional commitments from the lenders and other customary conditions. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-21 The Credit Facility contains financial covenants that require, among other things, the maintenance of an unencumbered interest coverage ratio of at least 2.00; a fixed charge coverage ratio of at least 1.50; an overall leverage ratio of no more than 60%; and a minimum shareholders’ equity in an amount equal to $1.0 billion, plus a portion of the net cash proceeds from certain equity issuances. The Credit Facility also contains customary representations and warranties and affirmative and negative covenants, as well as customary events of default. The amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility may be accelerated upon the occurrence of any events of default. The interest rate applicable to the Credit Facility varies according to the Company’s leverage ratio, and may, at the election of the Company, be determined based on either (1) the current London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a spread of between 1.10% and 1.45%, based on leverage or (2) the greater of Bank of America’s prime rate, the federal funds rate plus 0.50% or the one-month LIBOR plus 1.0% (the “Base Rate”), plus a spread of between 0.10% and 0.45%, based on leverage. The Company also pays an annual facility fee on the total commitments under the Credit Facility of between 0.15% and 0.30% based on leverage. At December 31, 2016, the Credit Facility’s spread over LIBOR was 1.1%. The amount that the Company may draw under the Credit Facility is a defined calculation based on the Company’s unencumbered assets and other factors. The total available borrowing capacity under the Credit Facility was $365.0 million at December 31, 2016. T E R M LOA N During 2016, the Company obtained a $250 million unsecured term loan (the “Term Loan”) that matures on December 2, 2021. The Term Loan contains financial covenants consistent with those of the Credit Facility. The interest rate applicable to the Term Loan varies according to the Company’s leverage ratio, and may, at the election of the Company, be determined based on either (1) the current London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a spread of between 1.20% and 1.70%, based on leverage or (2) the greater of Bank of America’s prime rate, the federal funds rate plus 0.50% or the one-month LIBOR plus 1.0% (the “Base Rate”), plus a spread of between 0.00% and 0.75%, based on leverage. At December 31, 2016, the Term Loan’s spread over LIBOR was 1.2%. D E BT A S S O C I AT E D W I T H T H E M E R G E R A N D S P I N - O F F In connection with the Merger, the Company assumed $635.2 million of mortgage debt (excluding $272.4 million of mortgage debt assumed and distributed in connection with the Spin-Off) at a weighted average stated interest rate of 5.2%. Subsequent to the Merger and before December 31, 2016, the Company repaid $251.9 million of this assumed mortgage debt, which included the legal defeasance of a $20.2 million mortgage loan. In connection with the Spin- Off, the Company distributed the Post Oak Central mortgage note to New Parkway on October 7, 2016. In the Merger, the Company assumed $550 million in Parkway unsecured term debt, received proceeds from a $350 million senior secured term loan and repaid the $550 million in unsecured term debt. In the Spin-Off, the Company distributed the $350 million senior secured term loan to New Parkway. OT H E R M O R TG AG E LOA N I N FO R M AT I O N In 2016, the Company had the following mortgage loan activity: – – – Entered into a $120.0 million non-recourse mortgage loan secured by Colorado Tower, a 373,000 square foot office building in Austin, Texas. The mortgage bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.45% and matures September 1, 2026. Entered into a $150.0 million non-recourse mortgage loan secured by Fifth Third Center, a 698,000 square foot office building in Charlotte, North Carolina. The mortgage bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.37% and matures October 1, 2026. Repaid the $98.1 million 191 Peachtree Tower mortgage loan in full in connection with a sale of the building and paid a $3.7 million prepayment penalty. In 2015, the Company prepaid, without penalty, the $14.2 million The Points at Waterview mortgage note. The note was scheduled to mature on January 1, 2016. OT H E R D E BT I N FO R M AT I O N The real estate and other assets of The American Cancer Society Center (the “ACS Center”) are restricted under the ACS Center loan agreement in that they are not available to settle debts of the Company. However, provided that the ACS Center loan has not incurred any uncured event of default, as defined in the loan agreement, the cash flows from the ACS Center, after payments of debt service, operating expenses and reserves, are available for distribution to the Company. The majority of the Company’s consolidated debt is fixed- rate long-term non-recourse mortgage notes payable. Assets with depreciated carrying values of $1.4 billion were pledged as security on the $995 million mortgage notes payable. As of December 31, 2016, the weighted average maturity of the Company’s consolidated debt was 4.25 years. F-22 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T As a result of the Parkway Transactions, the Company assumed four non-recourse mortgage loans with an aggregate principal amount of $360.0 million that mature in 2017. In addition, the Company has one additional non-recourse mortgage loan with a principal balance of $127.5 million that matures in 2017. While the Company does not currently have the liquid funds available to satisfy the obligations, the Company expects to repay these loans when they mature with a combination of sources of capital including, but not limited to, asset sales, unsecured debt, mortgage loans on these or other properties, or issuance of common equity. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the estimated fair value of the Company’s notes payable was $1.4 billion and $738.1 million, respectively, calculated by discounting the debt’s remaining contractual cash flows at estimated rates at which similar loans could have been obtained at December 31, 2016 and 2015. The estimate of the current market rate, which is the most significant input in the discounted cash flow calculation, is intended to replicate debt of similar maturity and loan-to- value relationship. These fair value calculations are considered to be Level 2 under the guidelines as set forth in ASC 820 as the Company utilizes market rates for similar type loans from third party brokers. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, interest was recorded as follows (in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Total interest incurred Interest capitalized $31,347 (4,697) $26,314 (3,579) $23,735 (2,752) Total interest expense $26,650 $22,735 $20,983 D E BT M AT U R I T I E S Future principal payments due (including scheduled amortization payments and payments due upon maturity) on the Company’s notes payable at December 31, 2016 are as follows (in thousands): 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Thereafter $ 495,916 9,348 167,047 33,826 261,256 411,283 $ 1,378,676 10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES CO M M I T M E N T S The Company had a total of $135.7 million in future obligations under leases to fund tenant improvements and other future construction obligations at December 31, 2016. The Company had outstanding letters of credit and performance bonds totaling $3.8 million at December 31, 2016. The Company recorded lease expense of $2.4 million, $2.0 million, and $1.3 million in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. The Company has future lease commitments under ground leases and operating leases totaling $211.2 million over weighted-average remaining terms of 78 and 3 years, respectively. Amounts due under these lease commitments are as follows (in thousands): 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Thereafter $ 2,795 2,718 2,613 2,492 2,373 198,161 $ 211,152 L I T I G AT I O N The Company is subject to various legal proceedings, claims and administrative proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business, some of which are expected to be covered by liability insurance. Management makes assumptions and estimates concerning the likelihood and amount of any potential loss relating to these matters using the latest information available. The Company records a liability for litigation if an unfavorable outcome is probable and the amount of loss or range of loss can be reasonably estimated. If an unfavorable outcome is probable and a reasonable estimate of the loss is a range, the Company accrues the best estimate within the range. If no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, the Company accrues the minimum amount within the range. If an unfavorable outcome is probable but the amount of the loss cannot be reasonably estimated, the Company discloses the nature of the litigation and indicates that an estimate of the loss or range of loss cannot be made. If an unfavorable outcome is reasonably possible and the estimated loss is material, the Company discloses the nature and estimate of the possible loss of the litigation. The Company does not disclose information with respect to litigation where an unfavorable 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-23 outcome is considered to be remote or where the estimated loss would not be material. Based on current expectations, such matters, both individually and in the aggregate, are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the liquidity, results of operations, business or financial condition of the Company. 11. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY In 2016, in connection with the Merger, the Company issued 6.9 million shares of limited voting preferred stock, par value $1 per share. Each share of limited voting preferred stock is “paired” with a limited partnership unit in CPLP. A share of Cousins limited voting preferred stock will be automatically redeemed by Cousins without consideration if such share’s paired limited partnership unit in CPLP is transferred or redeemed. Holders of the limited voting preferred stock are entitled to one vote on the following matters only: the election of directors, any proposed amendment of the Company’s Articles of Incorporation, any merger or other business combination of the Company, any sale of substantially all of the Company’s assets, and any liquidation of the Company. Holders of limited voting preferred stock are not entitled to any dividends or distributions and the limited voting preferred stock is not convertible into or exchangeable for any other property or securities of the Company. In 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized the repurchase of up to $100 million of its outstanding common shares. The plan expires on September 8, 2017. The repurchases may be executed in the open market, through private negotiations, or in other transactions permitted under applicable law. The timing, manner, price and amount of any repurchases will be determined by the Company in its discretion and will be subject to economic and market legal requirements conditions, stock price, applicable and other factors. The share repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time. Under this plan, through December 31, 2016, the Company has repurchased 6.8 million shares of its common stock for a total cost of $61.5 million, including broker commissions. The share repurchases were funded from cash on hand, borrowings under the Company’s Credit Facility, and proceeds from the sale of assets. The repurchased shares were recorded as treasury shares on the consolidated balance sheets. In 2014, the Company issued 26.7 million shares of common stock, in two offerings, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of $321.9 million, which includes customary legal, accounting, and other expenses. In 2014, the Company redeemed all outstanding shares of its 7.5% Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, par value $1 per share, for $25 per share or $94.8 million, excluding accrued dividends. In connection with this redemption, the Company decreased net income available for common stockholders by $3.5 million (non-cash), which represents the original issuance costs applicable to the shares redeemed. Ownership Limitations — In order to minimize the risk that the Company will not meet one of the requirements for qualification as a REIT, the Company’s Articles of Incorporation include certain restrictions on the ownership of more than 3.9% of the Company’s total common and preferred stock, subject to waiver by Board of Directors. Distribution of REIT Taxable Income — The following reconciles dividends paid and dividends applied in 2016, 2015, and 2014 to meet REIT distribution requirements (in thousands): Common and preferred dividends paid Dividends treated as taxable compensation Portion of dividends declared in current year, and paid in current year, which was applied to the prior year distribution requirements Portion of dividends declared in subsequent year, and paid in subsequent year, which apply to current year distribution requirements Dividends in excess of current year REIT distribution requirements Dividends applied to meet current year REIT distribution requirements 2016 2015 2014 $1,077,179 $69,162 (94) (92) 63,364 (110) — (731) (2,182) — (827,005) — — $ 250,082 $68,337 731 — 61,803 F-24 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T Tax Status of Distributions — The following summarizes the components of the taxability of the Company’s distributions for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014: Total Distributions Per Share Ordinary Dividends Long-Term Capital Gain Unrecaptured Section 1250 Gain (A) Nondividend Distributions Cash Liquidation Distributions Common: Series B Preferred: 2016 2015 2014 $ 2.853075 $0.079661 $0.582778 $0.100934 $2.190636 $ $ 0.320000 $ 0.300000 $0.161738 $0.281564 $0.158262 $0.018436 $0.097271 $0.018436 — $ — $ — — — $ $ $ 2014 $25.776040 $0.467750 $0.001000 $0.001000 (A) Represents a portion of the dividend allocated to long-term capital gain. — $25.307290 12. FUTURE MINIMUM RENTS The Company’s leases typically contain escalation provisions and provisions requiring tenants to pay a pro rata share of operating expenses. The leases typically include renewal options and are classified and accounted for as operating leases. At December 31, 2016 future minimum rents to be received by consolidated entities under existing non-cancelable leases are as follows (in thousands): 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Thereafter $ 307,262 311,442 289,132 267,135 237,500 677,943 $ 2,090,414 13. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION The Company maintains the 2009 Incentive Stock Plan (the “2009 Plan”), which allows the Company to issue awards of stock options, stock grants, or stock appreciation rights to employees and directors. As of December 31, 2016, 2,293,403 shares were authorized to be awarded pursuant to the 2009 Plan. The Company also maintains the 2005 Restricted Stock Unit (“RSU”)Plan, as amended, which allows the Company to issue awards to employees that are paid in cash on the vesting date in an amount equal to the fair market value, as defined, of one share of the Company’s stock. The Company has granted stock options, restricted stock, and restricted stock units to employees as discussed below. As a result of the Spin-Off, the number and strike price of stock options, shares of restricted stock, and the number of restricted stock units were adjusted to preserve the intrinsic value of the awards immediately prior to the Spin- Off using an adjustment ratio based on the market price of the Company’s stock prior to the Spin-Off and the market price of the Company’s stock subsequent to the Spin-Off pursuant to anti-dilution provisions of the 2009 Plan. Since these adjustments were considered to be a modification of the awards, the Company compared the fair value of the awards immediately prior to the Spin-Off to the fair value immediately after the Spin-Off to measure potential incremental stock-based compensation expense. The adjustments did not result in an increase in the fair value of the awards and, accordingly, the Company did not record incremental stock-based compensation expense. S TO C K O P T I O N S At December 31, 2016, the Company had 2,262,249 stock options outstanding to key employees and outside directors pursuant to the 2009 Plan. The Company typically uses authorized, unissued shares to provide shares for option exercises. The stock options have a term of ten years from the date of grant and have a vesting period of four years, except director stock options, which vest immediately. In 2016, 2015, and 2014, there were no stock option grants to employees or directors. In 2016, in conjunction with the Merger, the Company granted 672,375 options to former Parkway key executives. These options vested immediately, and have a term of ten years from the date of grant. The Company calculated the fair value of these grants using the Black-Scholes option- pricing model, which requires the Company to provide certain inputs as follows: – – The risk-free interest rate utilized is the interest rate on U.S. Treasury Strips or Bonds having the same life as the estimated life of the Company’s option awards. Expected life of the options granted is estimated based on historical data reflecting actual hold periods plus an estimated hold period for unexercised options outstanding. 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-25 – – Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company’s stock over a period equal to the estimated option life. The assumed dividend yield is based on the Company’s expectation of an annual dividend rate for regular dividends over the estimated life of the option. The weighted average fair value of options granted was $0.84 per option, and the Company computed the fair value of options granted using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions: Risk-free interest rate Assumed dividend yield Assumed lives of option awards (in years) Assumed volatility 1.37% 3.60% 6.4 23.23% The Company recorded $565,000 to additional paid-in capital for the fair value of the options granted as part of the Merger. During 2016, 2015, and 2014, $0, $15,000 and $140,000, respectively, was recognized as compensation expense related to stock options. The Company does not anticipate recognizing any future compensation expense related to stock options outstanding beyond December 31, 2016. During 2016, total cash proceeds from the exercise of options equaled $13,000. As of December 31, 2016, the intrinsic value of the options outstanding and exercisable was $2.5 million. The intrinsic value is calculated using the exercise prices of the options compared to the market value of the Company’s stock. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the weighted-average contractual lives for the options outstanding and exercisable were 3.2 years and 2.3 years, respectively. The following is a summary of stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014: Outstanding at December 31, 2013 Exercised Forfeited/Expired Outstanding at December 31, 2014 Exercised Forfeited/Expired Outstanding at December 31, 2015 Granted as a result of the Spin-Off Exercised Forfeited/Expired Outstanding at December 31, 2016 Options Exercisable at December 31, 2016 Number of Options (000s) Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Option 3,078 (206) (661) 2,211 (23) (425) 1,763 1,222 (2) (721) 2,262 2,262 $ 22.90 8.26 28.18 22.69 8.02 21.98 22.05 11.78 8.35 27.24 $ 10.82 $ 10.82 R E S T R I C T E D S TO C K In 2016, 2015, and 2014, the Company issued 234,965, 165,922, and 137,591 shares of restricted stock to employees, which vest ratably over three years from the issuance date. In 2016, 2015, and 2014, the Company also issued 72,771, 78,985, and 55,293 shares of stock to independent members of the board of directors which vested immediately on the issuance date. All shares of restricted stock receive dividends and have voting rights during the vesting period. The Company records restricted stock in common stock and additional paid-in capital at fair value on the grant date, with the offsetting deferred compensation also recorded in additional paid-in capital. The Company records compensation expense over the vesting period. Compensation expense related to restricted stock was $1.6 million, $1.5 million, and $1.8 million in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had recorded $1.9 million of unrecognized compensation cost included in additional paid-in capital related to restricted stock, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.6 years. The total fair value of the restricted stock which vested during 2016 was $1.2 million. The following table summarizes restricted stock activity for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014: F-26 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T Non-vested restricted stock at December 31, 2013 Granted Vested Forfeited Non-vested restricted stock at December 31, 2014 Granted Vested Forfeited Non-vested restricted stock at December 31, 2015 Granted Granted as a result of the Spin-Off Vested Forfeited Non-vested restricted stock at December 31, 2016 Number of Shares (000s) Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value 450 138 (236) (10) 342 166 (210) (5) 293 235 114 (141) (30) 471 $ 8.00 10.75 8.00 9.48 9.08 11.06 8.41 10.68 10.65 8.62 7.57 8.54 9.77 $ 7.57 R E S T R I C T E D S TO C K U N I T S During 2016, 2015, and 2014, the Company awarded two types of performance-based RSUs to key employees: one based on the total stockholder return of the Company, as defined, relative to that of office peers included in the SNL US Office REIT Index (the “TSR RSUs”) and the other based on the ratio of cumulative funds from operations per share to targeted cumulative funds from operations per share (the “FFO RSUs”). The performance period for these awards is three years and the ultimate payout of these awards can range from 0% to 200% of the targeted number of units depending on the achievement of the performance metrics described above. Both of these RSUs are to be settled in cash with payment dependent upon the attainment of required service, market, and performance criteria. The Company expenses an estimate of the fair value of the TSR RSUs over the performance period using a quarterly Monte Carlo valuation. The Company expenses the FFO RSUs over the vesting period using the fair market value of the Company’s stock at the reporting date multiplied by the anticipated number of units to be paid based on the current estimate of what the ratio is expected to be upon vesting. Dividend equivalents on the TSR RSUs and FFO RSUs will also be paid based upon the percentage vested. The targeted number of performance-based RSUs outstanding at December 31, 2016 are 396,872, 299,821, and 204,690 related to the 2016, 2015, and 2014 grants, respectively. In 2012, the Company also issued 281,532 performance- based RSUs to the chief executive officer. The payout of these awards could have ranged from 0% to 150% of the targeted number of units depending on the total stockholder return of the Company, as defined, as compared to that of a peer group of companies through 2016. This award was expensed using a quarterly Monte Carlo valuation over the vesting period until the fourth quarter of 2016, when it was adjusted to the actual amount paid in 2017. The following table summarizes the performance-based RSU activity as of December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 (in thousands): Outstanding at December 31, 2013 Granted Vested Forfeited Outstanding at December 31, 2014 Granted Vested Forfeited Outstanding at December 31, 2015 Granted Granted as a result of the Spin-Off Vested Forfeited 755 205 (150) (14) 796 244 (191) (6) 843 312 308 (160) (30) Outstanding at December 31, 2016 1,273 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-27 In 2016, the Company granted 28,938 time-vested RSUs to a key employee. The value of each unit is equal to the fair market value of one share of common stock. The vesting period for this award is three years. These RSUs are to be settled in cash with payment dependent upon the attainment of the required service criteria. The Company estimates future expense for all types of RSUs outstanding at December 31, 2016 to be $3.2 million (using stock prices and estimated target percentages as of December 31, 2016), which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.9 years. During 2016, total cash paid for all types of RSUs and related dividend payments was $1.6 million. During 2016, 2015, and 2014, $6.4 million, $67,000, and $5.4 million, respectively, was recognized as compensation expense related to RSUs for employees and directors. 14. RETIREMENT SAVINGS PLAN The Company maintains a defined contribution plan (the “Retirement Savings Plan”) pursuant to Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) which covers active regular employees. Employees are eligible under the Federal income tax benefit (expense) State income tax benefit (expense), net of federal income tax effect Valuation allowance State deferred tax adjustment Retirement Savings Plan immediately upon hire, and pre- tax contributions are allowed up to the limits set by the Code. The Company has a match program of up to 3% of an employee’s eligible pre-tax Retirement Savings Plan contributions up to certain Code limits. Employees vest in Company contributions over a three-year period. The Company may change this percentage at its discretion, and, in addition, the Company could decide to make discretionary contributions in the future. The Company contributed $682,000, $639,000, and $592,000 to the Retirement Savings Plan for the 2016, 2015, and 2014 plan years, respectively. 15. INCOME TAXES On December 31, 2014, CREC merged into Cousins and Cousins formed CTRS. CTRS recorded no income tax expense in 2016 or 2015 and CREC recorded a $20,000 income tax benefit in 2014. The net income tax benefit differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate to CTRS’ income before taxes for the year ended December 31, 2016, and to CREC’s income before taxes for the years ended 2015 and 2014 as follows ($ in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Amount Rate Amount Rate Amount Rate $(1,159) (132) 1,282 9 (35)% $ (4)% 39% —% 778 90 (833) (35) 35% $(1,124) (125) 1,644 (375) 4% (37)% (2)% (35)% (4)% 50% (11)% Benefit applicable to income (loss) from continuing operations $ — —% $ — —% $ 20 —% On December 31, 2014, CREC merged into Cousins and Cousins contributed some of the assets and contracts that were previously owned by CREC to CTRS, a newly formed taxable REIT subsidiary of Cousins. Cousins retained many of CREC’s tax benefits, including the significant portion of CREC’s Federal and state tax carryforwards. Some of CREC’s tax benefits were assumed by CTRS upon the contributions Cousins made to CTRS immediately following CREC’s merger into Cousins. The tax effect of significant temporary differences representing deferred tax assets and liabilities of CTRS as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows (in thousands): Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Federal and state tax carryforwards Total deferred tax assets Valuation allowance Net deferred tax asset 2016 $ (188) 514 326 (326) 2015 $ 928 680 1,608 (1,608) $ — $ — A valuation allowance is required to be recorded against deferred tax assets if, based on the available evidence, it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized. When assessing the need for a valuation allowance, appropriate consideration should be given to all positive and negative evidence related to this realization. This evidence includes, among other things, the existence of current and recent cumulative losses, forecasts of future profitability, the length of statutory carryforward periods, the Company’s history with loss carryforwards and available tax planning strategies. F-28 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 the deferred tax asset of CTRS equaled $326,000 and $1.6 million, respectively, with a valuation allowance placed against the full amount of each. The conclusion that a valuation allowance should be recorded as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 was based the lack of evidence that CTRS, could generate future taxable income to realize the benefit of the deferred tax assets. 16. EARNINGS PER SHARE The following table sets forth the computation of the basic and diluted earnings per share of the Company’s consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 (in thousands): Earnings per Common Share - basic: Numerator: Income from continuing operations Net (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests in the CPLP from continuing operations Net (income) attributable to other noncontrolling interests from continuing operations Dividends to preferred stockholders Preferred Share original issue costs Income from continuing operations available for common stockholders Income from discontinued operations Net income available for common stockholders Denominator: Weighted average common shares - basic Earnings per common share - basic: Income from continuing operations available for common stockholders Income from discontinued operations available for common stockholders Net income available for common stockholders Earnings per common share - diluted: Numerator: Income from continuing operations Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 $ 60,941 $ 94,332 $ 12,886 (784) (211) — — 59,946 19,163 — (111) — — 94,221 31,297 — (1,004) (2,955) (3,530) 5,397 40,122 $ 79,109 $125,518 $ 45,519 253,895 215,827 204,216 $ $ 0.24 0.07 0.31 $ $ 0.44 0.14 0.58 $ $ 0.02 0.20 0.22 $ 60,941 $ 94,332 $ 12,886 Net (income) attributable to other noncontrolling interests from continuing operations (211) (111) Dividends to preferred stockholders Preferred Share original issue costs Income from continuing operations available for common stockholders before net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in CPLP Income from discontinued operations available for common stockholders Net income available for common stockholders before net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in CPLP Denominator: Weighted average common shares - basic Add: Stock options using treasury method Noncontrolling interests CPLP Weighted average common shares - diluted Earnings per common share - diluted: Income from continuing operations available for common stockholders Income from discontinued operations available for common stockholders Net income available for common stockholders — — — — 60,730 19,163 94,221 31,297 (1,004) (2,955) (3,530) 5,397 40,122 $ 79,893 $125,518 $ 45,519 253,895 215,827 204,216 178 1,950 152 — 244 — 256,023 215,979 204,460 $ $ 0.24 0.07 0.31 $ $ 0.44 0.14 0.58 $ $ 0.02 0.20 0.22 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-29 Anti-dilutive stock options represent stock options whose exercise price exceeds the average market value of the Company’s stock. These anti-dilutive stock options are not included in the current calculation of dilutive weighted average shares, but could be dilutive in the future. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, the number of anti-dilutive stock options was 762,000, 1,128,000, and 1,553,000, respectively. 17. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Supplemental information related to cash flows, including significant non-cash activity affecting the consolidated statements of cash flows, for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 is as follows (in thousands): Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized Income taxes paid Non-Cash Transactions: Non-cash assets and liabilities assumed in Merger Non-cash assets and liabilities distributed in Spin-Off Mortgage note payable legally defeased Transfer from land held to projects under development Change in accrued property acquisition, development, and tenant asset expenditures Transfer from investment in unconsolidated joint ventures to projects under development Transfer from projects under development to operating properties Transfer from operating properties and related assets to real estate assets and other assets held for sale Transfer from operating properties and related liabilities to liabilities of real estate assets held for sale $ 2016 32,215 — 2015 2014 $ 29,337 2 $28,840 4 1,886,815 (948,306 ) 20,170 8,099 7,918 5,880 — — — — — — — (2,483) — 121,709 7,246 1,347 — — — 5,185 (531) — — — — 18. REPORTABLE SEGMENTS The Company’s segments are based on the method of internal reporting which classifies operations by property type and geographical area. The segments by property type are: Office, Mixed-Use, and Other. The segments by geographical region are: Atlanta, Austin, Charlotte, Orlando, Tampa, Phoenix, and Other. These reportable segments represent an aggregation of operating segments reported to the Chief Operating Decision Maker based on similar economic characteristics that include the type of product and the geographical location. Each segment includes both consolidated operations and the Company’s share of joint venture operations. Company management evaluates the performance of its reportable segments in part based on net operating income (“NOI”). NOI represents rental property expenses less rental property operating expenses. NOI is not a measure of cash flows or operating results as measured by GAAP, is not indicative of cash available to fund cash needs and should not be considered an alternative to cash flows as a measure of liquidity. All companies may not calculate NOI in the same manner. The Company considers NOI to be an appropriate supplemental measure to net income as it helps both management and investors understand the core operations of the Company’s operating assets. NOI excludes corporate general and administrative expenses, interest expense, depreciation and amortization, impairments, gains/ loss on sales of real estate, and other non-operating items. Segment net income, amount of capital expenditures, and total assets are not presented in the following tables because management does not utilize these measures when analyzing its segments or when making resource allocation decisions. Information on the Company’s segments along with a reconciliation of NOI to net income available to common stockholders is as follows (in thousands): F-30 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T Year ended December 31, 2016 Net Operating Income: Houston Atlanta Austin Charlotte Orlando Tampa Tempe Other Total Net Operating Income Year ended December 31, 2015 Net Operating Income: Houston Atlanta Austin Charlotte Other Total Net Operating Income Year ended December 31, 2014 Net Operating Income: Houston Atlanta Austin Charlotte Other Total Net Operating Income Office Mixed-Use Other Total 78,590 98,032 29,865 28,418 3,265 7,130 6,067 1,504 252,871 $ — $ 7,411 — — — — — — 7,411 $ $ — $ 78,590 — 105,443 29,865 — 28,418 — 3,265 — 7,130 — 6,067 — 1,504 — — $ 260,282 Office Mixed-Use Other Total 103,210 93,438 15,294 16,164 7,104 235,210 $ — $ 5,854 — — — 5,854 $ $ — $ 103,210 99,292 — 15,294 — 16,164 — 7,272 168 168 $ 241,232 Office Mixed-Use Other Total 100,816 73,434 6,992 6,839 18,470 206,551 $ — $ 5,727 — — — 5,727 $ $ — $ 100,816 79,161 — 6,992 — 6,839 — 3,395 21,865 3,395 $ 215,673 $ $ $ $ $ $ The following reconciles Net Income to Net Operating Income for each of the periods presented (in thousands): Net Income $ Net operating income from unconsolidated joint ventures Net operating income from discontinued operations Fee income Other income Reimbursed expenses General and administrative expenses Interest expense Depreciation and amortization Acquisition and merger costs Other expenses Loss on extinguishment of debt Benefit for income taxes from operations Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Gain on sale of investment properties Income (loss) from discontinued operations Year Ended December 31, 2016 80,104 28,785 78,591 (8,347) (1,050) 3,259 25,592 26,650 97,948 24,521 5,888 5,180 — (10,562) (77,114) (19,163) $ 2015 125,629 24,335 103,198 (7,297) (828) 3,430 16,918 22,735 71,625 299 1,181 — — (8,302) (80,394) (31,297) $ 2014 53,008 25,897 102,616 (12,519) (919) 3,652 19,784 20,983 62,258 1,130 3,729 — (20) (11,268) (12,536) (40,122) Net Operating Income $ 260,282 $ 241,232 $ 215,673 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D F-31 Revenues by reportable segment, including a reconciliation to total revenues on the consolidated statements of operations for years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2016 Office Mixed-Use Other Total Revenues: Atlanta Austin Charlotte Houston Orlando Tampa Tempe Other Total segment revenues Company’s share of rental property revenues from unconsolidated joint ventures Revenues included in discontinued operations $ 160,540 52,769 $ $ 13,043 — — $ — 173,583 52,769 39,448 136,926 5,896 10,994 8,902 2,443 417,918 31,177 136,927 — — — — — — 13,043 13,043 — — — — — — — — — — 39,448 136,926 5,896 10,994 8,902 2,443 430,961 44,220 136,927 Total rental property revenues $ 249,814 $ — $ — $ 249,814 Year ended December 31, 2015 Office Mixed-Use Other Total Revenues: Houston Atlanta Austin Charlotte Other Total segment revenues Company's share of rental property revenues from unconsolidated joint ventures Revenues included in discontinued operations $ 176,823 164,712 26,581 22,964 9,216 400,296 27,416 176,828 $ — $ 9,975 — — — 9,975 9,975 — — $ — — — 192 192 — — 176,823 174,687 26,581 22,964 9,408 410,463 37,391 176,828 Total rental property revenues $ 196,052 $ — $ 192 $ 196,244 Year ended December 31, 2014 Office Mixed-Use Other Total Revenues: Houston Atlanta Austin Charlotte Other Total segment revenues Company’s share of rental property revenues from unconsolidated joint ventures Revenues included in discontinued operations $ 179,788 125,884 14,062 9,404 42,576 371,714 26,766 182,714 $ — $ 9,037 — — — 9,037 9,037 — — $ — — — 3,886 3,886 1,997 — 179,788 134,921 14,062 9,404 46,462 384,637 37,800 182,714 Total rental property revenues $ 162,234 $ — $ 1,889 $ 164,123 F-32 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T I, Lawrence L. Gellerstedt III, certify that: CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 E x h i b i t 3 1 .1 1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Cousins Properties Incorporated (the “Registrant”); 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 4. The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Registrant and have: a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and d. Disclosed in this report any change in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and 5. The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the Registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. /s/ Lawrence L. Gellerstedt III Lawrence L. Gellerstedt III President and Chief Executive Officer Date: February 20, 2017 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D E x h i b i t 3 1 . 2 I, Gregg D. Adzema, certify that: CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Cousins Properties Incorporated (the “Registrant”); 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 4. The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Registrant and have: a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and d. Disclosed in this report any change in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and 5. The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the Registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. /s/ Gregg D. Adzema Gregg D. Adzema Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Date: February 20, 2017 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 E x h i b i t 3 2 .1 Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and in connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Cousins Properties Incorporated (the “Registrant”) for the year ended December 31, 2016, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), the undersigned, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Registrant, certifies that to his knowledge: (1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and (2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant. /s/ Lawrence L. Gellerstedt III Lawrence L. Gellerstedt III President and Chief Executive Officer Date: February 20, 2017 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 E x h i b i t 3 2 . 2 Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and in connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Cousins Properties Incorporated (the “Registrant”) for the year ended December 31, 2016, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), the undersigned, the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Registrant, certifies that to his knowledge: (1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and (2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant. /s/ Gregg D. Adzema Gregg D. Adzema Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Date: February 20, 2017 C O U S I N S P R O P E R T I E S I N C O R P O R A T E D 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T (cid:2)(cid:3)(cid:4)(cid:5)(cid:6) DIRECTORS S. Taylor Glover Non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors, Cousins Properties Incorporated; Chief Executive Officer, Turner Enterprises, Inc. Charles T. Cannada Edward M. Casal Chief Executive, Global Real Estate, Aviva Investors Americas, LLC Robert M. Chapman Chief Executive Officer, CenterPoint Properties Trust Larry L. Gellerstedt III President and Chief Executive Officer, Cousins Properties Incorporated Lillian C. Giornelli Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Trustee, The Cousins Foundation, Inc. Donna W. Hyland President and Chief Executive Officer, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Brenda J. Mixson Managing Director, C-III Capital Partners, LLC Thomas G. Cousins Chairman Emeritus EXECUTIVE OFFICERS Larry L. Gellerstedt III President and Chief Executive Officer Gregg D. Adzema Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer M. Colin Connolly Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John S. McColl Executive Vice President Pamela F. Roper Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary John D. Harris, Jr. Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer, Treasurer and Assistant Corporate Secretary SHAREHOLDER(cid:6) INFORMATION Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Deloi(cid:8)e & Touche LLP Counsel King & Spalding LLP Troutman Sanders LLP Transfer Agent and Registrar American Stock Transfer & Trust Company 6201 15th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11219 Telephone Number: 1.800.937.5449 www.amstock.com Form 10-K Available The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 forms part of the Annual Report. Additional copies of the Form 10-K, without exhibits, are available free of charge upon wri(cid:8)en request to the Company at 191 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 500, Atlanta, Georgia 30303. Exhibits are available if requested. The Form 10-K is also posted on the Company’s website at cousinsproperties.com or may be obtained from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Investor Relations Contact Marli Quesinberry Vice President, Investor Relations Telephone Number: 404.407.1898 Fax Number: 404.407.1899 marliquesinberry@cousinsproperties.com *Cover image of 3344 Peachtree and 3350 Peachtree, Atlanta, GA by John Fulton. 191 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 500, Atlanta, GA 30303-1740 | 404.407.1000 | cousinsproperties.com