What encompasses the annual common stock dividends paid?

The correct answer is the total dividends distributed to all shareholders. Annual common stock dividends represent the money that a company distributes to its common shareholders from its earnings. This is a key aspect of how companies return value to their investors, directly impacting their investment attractiveness.

In essence, when looking at common stock dividends, it's important to focus on the total that is allocated to all holders of common shares. This amount can vary based on the company's profitability and policy regarding dividend payments, but it is explicitly concerned with what is actually paid out to common shareholders within that fiscal year.

The other options touch on different financial areas but do not specifically capture the essence of common stock dividends. For instance, dividends paid to preferred shareholders pertain specifically to a different class of stock and are not included in common stock dividends. Similarly, dividends declared or anticipated for the next year are projected figures and do not reflect what has actually been paid out. Lastly, total earnings retained in the company refers to retained earnings, not dividends, which are distributions made to shareholders rather than a reinvestment into the company.