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What is a Capital Loss?
A Capital Loss occurs when a capital asset (such as stocks, real estate, or a business) is sold for less than its original purchase price. It represents a financial loss realized at the point of sale and can often be used to offset capital gains for tax purposes.
Definition
A Capital Loss is the negative difference between an asset’s selling price and its adjusted basis.
Key Takeaways
- Occurs when an asset is sold for less than its purchase price.
- Can offset capital gains and, in some jurisdictions, reduce taxable income.
- Must be realized through a sale to be recognized.
Understanding Capital Losses
Capital losses are a natural part of investing. Asset values fluctuate, and not all investments appreciate. When market conditions, poor performance, or strategic decisions lead an investor to sell an asset below cost, the difference becomes a capital loss.
Tax systems often allow:
- Offsetting capital gains
- Carrying losses forward to future years
- Limited deductions against ordinary income (varies by country)
Capital losses can be short-term or long-term, depending on the asset’s holding period, and their tax treatment may differ.
Formula
Capital Loss = Adjusted Basis − Selling Price
If the selling price is lower than the adjusted basis, the result is a loss.
Real-World Example
An investor purchases cryptocurrency for $10,000. Market volatility causes the price to fall, and the investor sells for $6,500.
Capital Loss = 10,000 − 6,500 = $3,500 loss
This loss may offset gains from other investments or reduce tax liability depending on local tax rules.
Importance in Business or Economics
Capital losses affect:
- Tax planning and investment strategies
- Portfolio management decisions
- Risk assessment and diversification strategies
For businesses, recognizing capital losses helps reflect the true economic value of asset holdings and informs strategic reallocation of resources.
Types or Variations
- Realized Capital Loss: Occurs when the asset is sold.
- Unrealized Loss: Value has dropped but asset has not been sold (not tax-deductible).
- Short-Term vs. Long-Term Loss: Based on holding period; tax treatment may vary.
Related Terms
- Capital Gain
- Adjusted Basis
- Tax-Loss Harvesting
Sources and Further Reading
- IRS Capital Gains & Losses: https://irs.gov
- OECD Tax Policy Centre: https://oecd.org
- Investopedia: https://investopedia.com
Quick Reference
- Loss = Basis − Selling Price.
- Can offset gains for tax benefits.
- Must be realized to be deductible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can capital losses eliminate all capital gains?
Yes, losses can offset gains fully. Excess losses may be carried forward depending on tax laws.
Are unrealized losses deductible?
No. Only realized losses qualify for tax benefits.
Do capital losses expire?
In some jurisdictions, unused losses carry forward indefinitely; others impose limits.
