Annual report

A comprehensive report on a company's activities throughout the preceding year

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An annual report is a comprehensive document that provides detailed information about a company's activities and financial performance throughout the preceding year. These reports are intended to give shareholders and other interested parties information about the company's activities and financial performance.

Components of an Annual Report

An annual report typically includes several key sections:

• Chairman's statement: An overview from the chairman of the board, summarizing the company's performance and strategic direction.
• Business review: A detailed analysis of the company's operations, including significant developments and future outlook.
• Financial statements: Comprehensive financial data, including the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement.
• Corporate governance: Information on the company's governance structure, including details about the board of directors and executive compensation.
• Auditor's report: An independent auditor's opinion on the accuracy and fairness of the financial statements.

Purpose

The primary purpose of an annual report is to provide shareholders and other stakeholders with a clear and comprehensive overview of the company's performance over the past year. This includes financial performance, strategic initiatives, and future outlook. It also serves as a tool for investor relations, helping to build trust and transparency with investors.

Regulatory Requirements

In many countries, publicly traded companies are required by law to produce annual reports. These requirements are often set by regulatory bodies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States. The specific content and format of the report can vary depending on the regulatory requirements of the country in which the company operates.

History

The concept of the annual report has evolved over time. Initially, these reports were simple documents that provided basic financial information. Over the years, they have become more comprehensive, including detailed analyses, graphical presentations, and narratives that provide a deeper understanding of the company's performance and strategy.

Related Pages

• Financial statement
• Balance sheet
• Income statement
• Cash flow statement
• Corporate governance
• Investor relations
• Securities and Exchange Commission

See Also

• Quarterly report
• Management discussion and analysis
• Proxy statement
• Form 10-K