Annual Report

A report that a publicly-traded company is required to distribute to shareholders each year. The report contains information on the company's financial state, such as operational income and net profit. Sometimes, it also contains an accountant's opinion on the general health of the company. Generally, the front part of the annual report states the "bottom line," while the last part contains more detailed financial information. For example, the front part of the report may contain a brief essay stating, "Our company is healthy for reasons A, B, and C." At the conclusion of that essay, the stockholder may view its financial statements. See also: Stockholder's report.

annual report and accounts

a yearly report by the directors of a JOINT-STOCK COMPANY to the SHAREHOLDERS. It includes a copy of the company's BALANCE SHEET and a summary PROFIT-AND-LOSS ACCOUNT for the current and immediately-prior year, along with other information which directors are required by law to disclose to shareholders. Large quoted joint-stock companies must also include a SOURCES AND USES OF FUNDS STATEMENT and an Operating and Financial Review. A copy of the annual report and accounts is sent to every shareholder prior to the company's ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.

annual report and accounts

a yearly report by the directors of a JOINT-STOCK COMPANY to the SHAREHOLDERS. It includes a copy of the company's BALANCE SHEET and a summary PROFIT-AND-LOSS ACCOUNT, along with other information that directors are required by law to disclose to shareholders. A copy of the annual report and accounts is sent to every shareholder prior to the company's ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.