(FORTUNE Magazine) – Retailers were the biggest employers, but tech, comfort foods, and oil delivered the best returns. Overall, the service sector continued to strengthen its position as the dominant force in the U.S. economy.

Fastest-growing companies

The past decade has seen the rise, fall, and maturity of the new economy. Dell was one of the period's best performers; Amazon turned in a strong year. But industrial stalwart Ford also revved up profits in 2004.

GROWTH IN PROFITS

1 YEAR

5 YEARS

10 YEARS

GROWTH IN REVENUES

1 YEAR

5 YEARS

10 YEARS

Most profitable companies

What makes the world run? Judging by these results, the answer is oil, drugs, money--and a bit of IT.

PROFITS

RETURN ON REVENUES

RETURN ON SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Most bang for the buck (or body)

Bargain hunters might find some deals, but beware: Many of these are risky businesses.

REVENUES PER DOLLAR OF ASSETS

REVENUES PER DOLLAR OF EQUITY

REVENUES PER EMPLOYEE

Biggest companies

How big is big? Exxon Mobil and GE's combined market value is bigger than Australia's GDP.

BY MARKET VALUE

BY EQUITY

BY EMPLOYEES

Best investments

Owens Corning and Kmart delivered great returns but have traveled a hard road--bankruptcy.

TOTAL RETURN TO SHAREHOLDERS

1 YEAR

5 YEARS

10 YEARS