Public companies are required to file a variety of reports with the SEC, detailing their financial results and any other things which are materially affecting their business.

The SEC keeps all this information in a database called EDGAR and it is all available for you to search through to learn more about the companies you have invested in. This is where I found the series of correspondences between BRLI and the SEC.

Here is a great overview by the SEC of what EDGAR is, the different types of reports that are filed, and ways you can search for information.

http://www.sec.gov/investor/pubs/edgarguide.htm

There is a lot of information here so don't be overwhelmed. But don't be intimidated either. If you start by making an effort to at least open up 10-K (annual) and 10-Q (quarterly) reports when they are released, you will start to become much more familiar with the businesses you have invested in. There is a lot of information in these reports that is easy to read and understand. The more familiar you become with what is going on in a company, the better investing decisions you will be able to make.

Another type of report that you'll find in the EDGAR database which I'd recommend you keep an eye on are 8-K reports. A company needs to file an 8-K report as soon as anything happens which might materially affect it's operations. 8-K reports ensure that everyone has access to information that might affect stock prices at the same time. You can wait to get the information in a news headline, but if you want to get it in the most timely manner, read the 8-K reports. In the Investor Relations sections on their websites, most companies allow you to sign up to be notified by email when one comes out.

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Laurie Frederiksen
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