|
Getting Info About CompaniesThis page tells you how to get information about companies from a variety of sources. We'll cover corporate reports, reference books, and commercial databases that provide information. If you have questions about corporate bankruptcy or the worth of an old stock certificate, we have information that may help you. Corporate ReportsCorporate reports are a treasure trove of information for investors: they tell you whether a company is making money or losing money and why. You'll find this information in the company's quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, annual reports (with audited financial statements) on Form 10-K, and periodic reports of significant events on Form 8-K. It's usually easy to find information about large companies from the companies themselves, newspapers, brokerage firms, and the SEC. By contrast, it can be extremely difficult to find information about small companies. Generally, smaller companies only have to file reports with the SEC if they have $10 million or more in assets and 500 or more shareholders, or list their securities on an exchange or Nasdaq. To invest wisely and avoid investment scams, research each investment opportunity thoroughly and ask questions. If you'd like to learn more about the SEC's registration and reporting requirements, read Q&A: Small Business and the SEC. You can get corporate reports from the following sources:
Other Types of InformationTo find out whether a company has been cleared to sell its securities in a particular state and whether it is in good standing, you can contact the following:
You can find general financial information about companies from reference books and commercial databases. The SEC cannot recommend or endorse any particular research firm, its personnel, or its products. But there are a number of resources you may consult:
BankruptciesIf you have questions about what happens when a company declares bankruptcy, you can get information from our brochure on the subject.Old Stock CertificatesIf you have an old stock certificate, learn how to check if it has value.
http://www.sec.gov/investor/pubs/companies.htm
|