Who / What
EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval) is an internal database system operated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It automates the collection, validation, indexing, and forwarding of submissions from companies and others required to file forms with the SEC. The database contains extensive information about the SEC and the securities industry, made publicly available online.
Background & History
EDGAR is operated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It was established to streamline the process of collecting and disseminating financial information from publicly traded companies. Its development reflects the SEC's commitment to transparency and investor protection in the U.S. securities markets.
Why Notable
EDGAR is a vital resource for investors, analysts, and researchers seeking information about public companies. It provides access to a wealth of financial filings, including annual reports, quarterly reports, and other regulatory disclosures. The database's widespread use has significantly increased market transparency and facilitated informed investment decisions.
In the News
In September 2017, it was revealed that the EDGAR database had been hacked, raising concerns about potential misuse of company data for insider trading. This incident highlighted the importance of cybersecurity for critical financial infrastructure.
