Where to Find Annual Reports of Companies: A Comprehensive Guide

What is an Annual Report?

An annual report is a document that companies publish to provide information about their financial performance, business strategies, and future prospects. It typically includes a company’s financial statements, management discussion and analysis, and other relevant information.

The Differences between an Annual Report, a 10-K, and a Proxy

While an annual report provides a comprehensive overview of a company’s operations, a 10-K is a more detailed filing that companies submit to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A proxy statement, on the other hand, contains information about corporate governance and voting procedures for shareholders.

Annual Reports and Filings Available via the Library

If you have access to a library, you can find annual reports and filings of companies through their resources. Libraries often provide access to databases and online platforms where you can search for specific companies and access their annual reports. Make sure to check with your local library to see if they offer such services.

Working Example: Walt Disney

Let’s take a closer look at how to find a company’s annual report using a working example. In this case, we’ll use Walt Disney as our example company.

1. Start by visiting the official website of the company. Most reputable companies have an investor relations section on their website where you can find their annual reports.

2. Look for a tab or link that says ‘Investor Relations’ or ‘Financial Information.’ This section usually contains a wealth of information, including annual reports, SEC filings, and other relevant documents.

3. Once you’ve found the investor relations section, navigate to the annual reports page. Here, you should be able to find a list of annual reports published by the company.

4. Click on the desired annual report to access it. The report is usually available in PDF format, which you can download and save for future reference.

Finding Company Annual Reports Online

Thanks to the internet, finding company annual reports has become easier than ever. Most reputable companies have an investor relations section on their website, where you can find their annual reports. Here are some steps you can follow to locate annual reports online:

Step 1: Start with a Google Search

If you’re looking for a specific company’s annual report, start by doing a Google search. Enter the company’s name followed by ‘annual report’ or ‘investor relations.’ This should lead you to the company’s official website or other reliable sources where you can find their annual reports.

Step 2: Visit the Company’s Website

Once you’ve found the company’s website, navigate to their investor relations section. Look for a tab or link that says ‘Investor Relations’ or ‘Financial Information.’ This section usually contains annual reports, SEC filings, and other relevant documents.

Step 3: Search for Annual Reports

Within the investor relations section, search for the annual reports page. Companies often organize their annual reports by year, so you can easily find the one you’re looking for. Click on the desired annual report to access it.

Step 4: Use Online Databases

If you’re unable to find the annual report on the company’s website, you can also try using online databases. Many websites provide access to a wide range of annual reports and financial filings. Some popular databases include Bloomberg, EDGAR, and Yahoo Finance.

Additional Resources

Aside from company websites and online databases, there are other resources you can utilize to find annual reports:

• Library Search: Visit your local library or university library to access their resources. Many libraries offer online databases and platforms where you can search for company annual reports.
• Business resources: Explore business-related websites and platforms that provide access to annual reports and financial filings. Examples include business research websites, financial news websites, and professional networks.
• Specialized Websites: Some websites specialize in providing access to annual reports and financial statements. These websites may require a subscription or payment for full access.

Conclusion

Locating annual reports of companies is crucial for investors, researchers, and anyone interested in gaining insights into a company’s financial performance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to find annual reports easily and efficiently. Whether you’re a millennial investor or an educational researcher, this comprehensive guide has provided you with the tools to access valuable financial information.