Fair Value Accounting

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.” This standard defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in GAAP, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. The new rule affects over 40 existing accounting standards — including those used to value stock options (FAS 123) and derivatives (FAS 133). And, for calendar year companies, it’s scheduled for implementation beginning the first quarter of 2008.

Advocates say that fair-value accounting will assist users of financial statements in obtaining a far clearer picture of the true economic state of a company. Achieving this “clearer picture,” however, is not without its difficulties. Concepts like exit price, highest and best use, in-use and in-exchange valuation premises, principal or most advantageous market, and the perspectives of market participants...; these are just a few of the concepts that must be understood and are introduced by Statement 157.

What does it mean for a concrete producer? More confusion. I'm a CPA and it is already confusing me.