The Securities and Exchange Commission is preparing a proposal that would permit companies to report financial results semiannually instead of quarterly, The Wall Street Journal reported March 16.
Five things to know:
1. The SEC’s proposal could be released as soon as April, two people “familiar with the matter” told the Journal.
2. The proposed rule is expected to make quarterly reports optional rather than eliminating them entirely, according to the report.
3. In 2025, the Long-Term Stock Exchange petitioned the SEC to eliminate the quarterly earnings requirement, according to the report. President Donald Trump and SEC Chairman Paul Atkins have said they support the idea.
4. Publicly traded companies have reported earnings quarterly for more than 50 years, according to the report. Publicly listed European companies have not been required to report quarterly financial results since a 2013 rule change. The U.K. has also ended quarterly reporting requirements, though many companies continue the practice voluntarily.
5. Once published, the proposal will have a public comment period, which typically lasts at least 30 days, according to the report. The SEC will then vote on the proposed rule. Any change is “likely to face opposition from investors who rely on the transparency of regular disclosures,” the Journal noted.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
