Retrieve EDGAR exhibit data

Big idea is that I need to compute the number of subsidiaries reported in Exhibit 21within Form 10-K as stored in the EDGAR database (always Exhibit 21, mandated by statute). One approach is to utilize the idea that EDGAR contains separate HTM files for exhibits. Here is a link to a Microsoft filing that might help you see the idea: [login to view URL] IFFFF we can retrieve the HTM files, then we only need to strip the headers and whitespace, and compute the number of subsidiaries. An alternative approach considers the idea that the complete submission text file contains the exhibits as well. So, this route entails extracting Exhibit 21 data from the text file, then strip and count. Don't think REGEX is the best tool for HTML type data. Approach is your call. The final result should generate variables for: -CIK (central index key). -period end (conformed period of report, yyymmdd format preferred). -filing date (date received at SEC, yyymmdd format preferred). -form type (e.g., 10-K). -company conformed name. -the SIC number (standard industrial classification, 4 digits). -the number of subsidiaries reported in Exhibit 21. Prefer to use PERL software, with generous documentation to allow me to modify for future projects. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you!