Introduction to 10-K Filings
The 10-K is an annual report that gives a complete overview of a company's performance. It includes audited financial statements, management's discussion and analysis (MD&A), and disclosures about the business, risks, and legal proceedings. Investors use the 10-K to gain a deeper understanding of a company's financial condition and future prospects, going beyond the typically summarized information available in quarterly reports or news articles. Companies like AAPL, MSFT, and AMZN all release 10-K filings annually.
Worked Example: These Figures Today
The companies used as examples above, with the current figures behind them. Illustrations of the metric — not a ranking, not a shortlist, and not a recommendation.
| Ticker | Company | Price | Change | Market Cap | MoonshotScore |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAPL | Apple Inc. | $343.91 | -1.10% | $5.0T | 89 |
| MSFT | Microsoft Corporation | $532.60 | +1.54% | $4.0T | 85 |
| AMZN | Amazon.com, Inc. | $249.09 | +0.44% | $2.7T | 75 |
Key Sections of a 10-K Filing
The 10-K filing is divided into several key sections:
* **Business (Item 1):** Overview of the company's operations, products/services, and competitive landscape.
* **Risk Factors (Item 1A):** Discussion of the significant risks that could affect the company's future performance.
* **Financial Statements (Items 8):** Includes the balance sheet, income statement, statement of cash flows, and statement of stockholders' equity.
* **Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) (Item 7):** Management's perspective on the company's performance, financial condition, and future prospects.
* **Notes to Financial Statements:** Detailed explanations of accounting policies, line items in the financial statements, and other important disclosures.
Related resources: [Stock Market Guide](/guide/what-is-stock-market), [Beginner's Guide to Stocks](/guide/how-to-buy-stocks), [Investment Guide](/guide), [AAPL Stock Page](/stock/aapl), [MSFT Stock Page](/stock/msft).
“MoonshotScore rates a US-listed stock 0 to 100 using five sector-relative pillars. Higher means stronger numbers across business quality, safety, valuation, growth and momentum. Eligible common stocks and ADRs only; funds, ETFs, warrants, units, SPACs, preferreds, and notes carry none. It is built for education and deeper due diligence, not financial advice.”
Questions worth resolving before acting on the screen
What is the purpose of a 10-K filing?
To provide investors with a comprehensive overview of a company's business, financial performance, and risks, enabling informed investment decisions.
Where can I find a company's 10-K filing?
10-K filings are available on the SEC's EDGAR database or on the company's investor relations website.
What are the key financial statements included in a 10-K?
The balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows.
What is Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A)?
A section where company management discusses the results of operations and financial condition, providing context and insights into the company's performance.