Of course the stockholders gain dividends in a well-run corporation, the dividends determined by the board based on profit, and they are reported as profit. The other payments are included in gross income, but most will appear as expenses in the tax forms.

Not sure what its is trying to quarrel about; I have been an infinitesimal stockholder in a number of corporations, and know that any dividend I receive is based on profit after expenses, but these expenses include money withheld for future use in exploration, perceived increases in expenses, additions to base, acquisitions, etc. I was merely trying to point out this fact to those who look at the gross income of a company and regard that with dismay.