Letter to Stakeholders
Annual reports often begin with a letter from the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and/or Chairman. GE’s letter is called the “Letter to Stakeholders.” This letter includes management’s assessment of the prior year, as well as a discussion of future plans. The letter typically highlights the CEO’s priorities for the coming year.

“Stakeholders” refers to all of the people with an interest in the success and activities of a firm (in this case, GE). This includes everyone from shareowners and employees to members of the communities in which GE maintains operations. The notion of stakeholders reflects the impact firms have beyond their shareowners.

Letter to Stakeholders