This course provides a deep dive into SECForm 10-K. This course addresses the key requirements and regulatory aspects, including filing deadlines and their significance for investors. This course also addresses the financial statements section, covering the balance sheet, income statement, cash flow statement, and footnote disclosures, along with best practices for preparation. The course also focuses on the Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) section, exploring its importance in the explanation of financial results and addressing common drafting challenges. Finally, this course discusses risk factors, internal controls, and corporate governance disclosures, highlighting their role in enhancing transparency.
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Identify the key components of SEC Form 10-K and their relevance to financial reporting.
Recognize the regulatory requirements and compliance aspects associated with filing Form 10-K.
Distinguish between the filing deadlines for Form 10-Kand the consequences of non-compliance
Recognize the significance of Form 10-Kfor investorsand stakeholders
Identify the key components and classifications of financial statements included in SEC Form 10-K
Recognize the significance of each financial statement in assessing a company's financial health
Distinguish between critical accounting policies and estimates that impact financial reporting
Determine the role of footnote disclosures in providing additional context to financial statements
Recognize common pitfalls in financial statement disclosures from effective disclosure practices
Identify key elements of MD&A
Distinguish between liquidity and capital resourcesin MD&A
Recognize best practices for drafting effective MD&Adisclosures
Identify common challenges in MD&Areporting
Recognize the significance of critical accounting estimatesin MD&A
Identify the methods companies use to determine and communicate risk factors in SECForm 10-K
Recognize the key components of ICFRand their significance in accurate financial reporting
Distinguish between various elements of executive compensationdisclosures required in Form 10-K
Determine the role and responsibilities of audit committees in corporate governance
Recognize best practices for board composition and independence that enhance corporate governance and investor confidence
Major Topics
Overview of SEC Form 10-K
Specific Items in the Form 10-K
Purpose of SEC Form 10-K
Historical Background of SEC Form 10-K
Comparison with Other SEC Filings
Comparison with Form 10-Q
Key Regulatory Requirements
SEC Rules Governing Form 10-K
Filing Deadlines & Compliance
SEC Review Process
Breakdown of Financial Statements
Statement of Cash Flows
Statement of Shareholders' Equity
Key Accounting Policies and Estimates
Understanding Footnote Disclosures
Common Pitfalls and Best Practices
Connecting the Dots to the 10-K
Purpose and Importance of MD&A
SEC Requirements Related to MD&A
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Use of Non-GAAP Measures in MD&A
SEC's Watchful Eye on MD&A
Best Practices for Drafting MD&A
Common Challenges in MD&A
Regulatory Guidance
Best Practices for Risk Factors
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Disclosure Requirements for Significant Deficiencies / Material Weaknesses
Executive Compensation