The Essential Guide to SEC Form 10-K: Compliance, Disclosures, and Best Practices (Course Id 2412)

This course provides a deep dive into SEC Form 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.

NASBA QAS - Text - NASBA Registry - 2412

Chapter 1
Introduction to SEC Form 10-K Requirements

• 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-K and the consequences of non-compliance
• Recognize the significance of Form 10-K for investors and stakeholders

Chapter 2
Detailed Analysis of the Financial Statements Section

• 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

Chapter 3
Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A)

• Identify key elements of MD&A
• Distinguish between liquidity and capital resources in MD&A
• Recognize best practices for drafting effective MD&A disclosures
• Identify common challenges in MD&A reporting
• Recognize the significance of critical accounting estimates in MD&A

Chapter 4
Risk Factors, Controls, and Corporate Governance Disclosures

• Identify the methods companies use to determine and communicate risk factors in SEC Form 10-K
• Recognize the key components of ICFR and their significance in accurate financial reporting
• Distinguish between various elements of executive compensation disclosures 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

Chapter 1 - Introduction to SEC Form 10-K Requirements

Chapter Overview

Learning Objectives

Overview of SEC Form 10-K

Purpose of SEC Form 10-K

Historical Background of SEC Form 10-K

Comparison with Other SEC Filings

Key Regulatory Requirements

Filing Deadlines & Compliance

SEC Review Process

Conclusion

Review Questions

Chapter 2 - Detailed Analysis of the Financial Statements Section

Chapter Overview

Learning Objectives

Breakdown of Financial Statements

Balance Sheet

Income Statement

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

Conclusion

Review Questions

Chapter 3 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A)

Chapter Overview

Learning Objectives

Purpose and Importance of MD&A

SEC Requirements Related to MD&A

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Results of Operations

Critical Accounting Estimates

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

Conclusion

Review Questions

Chapter 4 - Risk Factors, Controls, and Corporate Governance Disclosures

Chapter Overview

Learning Objectives

Risk Factors

Regulatory Guidance

Best Practices for Risk Factors

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Executive Compensation

Corporate Governance Disclosures

Conclusion

Review Questions

Glossary of Key Terms