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 live figures behind them. Illustrations of the metric — not a ranking, not a shortlist, and not a recommendation.
| Ticker | Company | Price | Change | Market Cap | P/E | MoonshotScore |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAPL | Apple Inc. | $332.61 | +1.85% | $4.9T | 37.5 | 89 |
| MSFT | Microsoft Corporation | $492.44 | +0.16% | $3.7T | 27.4 | 85 |
| AMZN | Amazon.com, Inc. | $256.10 | +1.67% | $2.8T | 29.0 | 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 — higher means stronger numbers. Most carry an older nine-factor score; the rest use five sector-relative pillars, re-ranked daily — 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.