Individual Assignment

Entrepreneurship requires a strong understanding of financial reporting and stakeholder communication. Public companies must disclose financial and operational information through required Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings. This assignment is designed to help you understand the purpose, content, and importance of three key filings: the 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K, and how they support informed decision-making by entrepreneurs, investors, and other stakeholders.

Paper Requirements

Length: 35 full pages (body of the paper only)

Format: APA (7th edition)

Sources: Minimum of 5 scholarly or credible sources

Citation Style: APA in-text citations and reference list

Individual Assignment: This paper must be completed independently

Note: The following are not included in the page count:

Title page

Abstract

Table of contents (if included)

References page

Content Guidelines

Your paper must address the following components:

1. Introduction

Briefly introduce entrepreneurship and the importance of financial transparency.

Explain why understanding SEC filings is critical for entrepreneurs, investors, and other stakeholders.

Clearly state the purpose of the paper.

2. Overview of SEC Filings

Provide a brief explanation of each filing:

What it is

Who files it

Why it exists

3. The 10-K Report (Annual Filing)

Discuss the 10-K, typically filed for the fourth quarter, including:

Purpose of the 10-K

Required sections, such as:

o Business overview

o Financial data

o Financial statements

o Managements Discussion and Analysis (MD&A)

o Risk factors

Importance of the 10-K for long-term decision-making

4. The 10-Q Report (Quarterly Filing)

Explain the 10-Q, focusing on:

Quarterly performance and financial position

Differences between the 10-Q and the 10-K

How the 10-Q helps stakeholders monitor ongoing performance

5. The 8-K Report (Current Event Filing)

Describe the 8-K, including:

Purpose of the filing

Events that trigger an 8-K, such as:

o Acquisitions or mergers

o Executive departures or officer elections

o Bankruptcies or major financial changes

Why timely disclosure is critical

6. Comparison and Contrast

Compare and contrast the 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K by discussing:

Frequency of filing

Type of information disclosed

Level of detail

Role each filing plays in transparency and accountability

A table may be included (optional) to enhance clarity.

7. Conclusion

Summarize key differences and similarities among the three filings

Explain how understanding these documents supports entrepreneurial success and investor confidence

Sources and Research

Use at least 5 credible sources, such as:

o SEC website resources

o Peer-reviewed journals

o Business or finance textbooks

o Reputable financial news or educational websites

Wikipedia and blogs should not be primary sources.

APA Formatting Requirements

12-point Times New Roman font

Double-spaced

1-inch margins

Page numbers in the header

Proper APA title page and references page

Evaluation Criteria (With Rubric Presented on Canvas Modules)

Your paper will be graded on:

Depth and accuracy of content

Quality of comparison and analysis

Use of credible sources

APA formatting and citations

Organization, clarity, and writing mechanics