Financial reporting frequency
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How Often Do Investors Need A Report Card?
Seeking Alphaยท 2025-09-16 11:30
Core Viewpoint - The debate over the frequency of financial reporting for publicly traded companies has resurfaced, with President Trump advocating for a shift from quarterly to semiannual earnings reports to reduce costs and allow management to focus on operations [1][3]. Historical Context - The SEC has mandated quarterly earnings reports for U.S. publicly traded companies since 1970, transitioning from a semiannual requirement established in 1955. Annual 10-K filings with audited financial statements have been required since the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 [2]. International Comparison - Many developed markets, including the U.K. and EU countries, only require semiannual reporting. Trump previously proposed a return to this structure to mitigate short-termism and reduce corporate costs, although the SEC did not implement changes after seeking public comment in 2018 [3]. Debate on Reporting Frequency - The proposal to change to semiannual reporting has divided opinions within the financial community. Critics argue that current quarterly standards prioritize short-term profits over long-term strategy, while proponents believe that the existing system provides essential transparency and keeps investors informed in a fast-paced trading environment. Some suggest maintaining the current system but eliminating voluntary quarterly guidance that has become common since the 1990s [4].