An earnings report is a financial document released by publicly traded companies, typically every quarter, to provide shareholders and the public with an overview of the company’s financial performance. It includes critical metrics such as net income, revenue, earnings per share (EPS), operating expenses, and profit margins. The report may also contain management commentary, future guidance, and comparisons to previous periods.

Earnings reports are essential for investors as they offer insight into how well a company is performing and whether it is meeting expectations. Positive earnings often lead to a rise in stock prices, while poor results may cause a decline. Investors and analysts closely watch key figures like EPS and revenue growth to evaluate a company’s financial health and growth prospects.

These reports are typically released after the market closes and are followed by earnings calls, where executives discuss the results and answer questions from analysts. The reports help investors make informed decisions, adjust their portfolios, and react to changes in a company’s outlook.

Earnings season, which occurs four times a year, is a crucial time for the stock market, as it often leads to increased volatility based on how results compare to market expectations.