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Capital Gains on Shares: Calculation & Taxation

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May 10, 2023
5 Minutes

Unlocking the Potential of Capital Gains on Shares: A Comprehensive Guide

Capital appreciation, the growth in the value of an asset over its purchase price, opens the gateway to capital gains. When investors sell assets at a higher price than their acquisition cost, it results in a profit known as capital gain, a key aspect of equity shares. Capital gains on shares are categorized into short-term and long-term, depending on the duration of the asset's holding period. Understanding the intricacies of capital gains on shares, along with their tax implications, is crucial for investors.

Long-Term Capital Gain on Shares:

Long-term capital gains on shares are calculated by subtracting the sale price from the cost of acquisition of an asset held for more than 12 months. For listed equity shares, this 12-month span is considered, while for unlisted equity shares, the period extends to 24 months to 36 months or more.

Short-Term Capital Gain on Shares:

Short-term capital gains arise from shares held for a period shorter than 36 months (unlisted) or 12 months (listed). Investors often prefer long-term equity shares due to the associated tax benefits when compared to short-term assets.

Long-Term and Short-Term Capital Gain Definitions:

  • Long-Term Capital Gain (LTCG):

    Returns generated over a period of 1 to 3 years, applicable to investments like property, agricultural land, mutual funds, and stocks.

  • Short-Term Capital Gain (STCG):

    Refers to the gain/profit on the sale of short-term capital assets, including listed shares held for less than 12 months.

Calculation of Capital Gain on Equity Shares:

The calculation of capital gains on equity shares involves several factors, including the sale value of assets, cost of asset acquisition, expenses incurred during the sale, indexation (for LTCG), and the holding period.

Tax Implications:

  • Long-Term Capital Gains Tax:

    Underwent reforms in the 2018-19 Union Budget, subjecting gains exceeding Rs. 1 Lakh to a 10% tax rate without indexing. This reform is not applicable to gains received up to January 31st, 2018.

  • Short-Term Capital Gains Tax:

    Taxed at a rate of 15% under Section 111A of the Income Tax Act for equity shares and equity-oriented Mutual Funds, subject to Securities Transaction Tax.

Tax Implications on Foreign Shares:

Capital gains from foreign investments may face double taxation, with long-term gains taxed at 20% and short-term gains at 30%. However, investors can mitigate double taxation liability under Section 91 of the Income Tax Act, of 1961.

Conclusion:

Navigating the landscape of capital gains on shares requires a comprehensive understanding of the nuances involved. Investors should consider factors such as the duration of asset holding, tax implications, and the potential for double taxation in foreign investments. With strategic planning and awareness, investors can make informed decisions, optimize tax liabilities, and unlock the full potential of capital gains on shares.

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Want to Achieve any of the below Goals upto 80% faster?Trusted by 3 Crore+ Indians
Dream Home
Dream Wedding
Dream Car
Retirement
1st Crore
credit-cards

Capital Gains on Shares: Calculation & Taxation

blog-image
May 10, 2023
5 Minutes

Unlocking the Potential of Capital Gains on Shares: A Comprehensive Guide

Capital appreciation, the growth in the value of an asset over its purchase price, opens the gateway to capital gains. When investors sell assets at a higher price than their acquisition cost, it results in a profit known as capital gain, a key aspect of equity shares. Capital gains on shares are categorized into short-term and long-term, depending on the duration of the asset's holding period. Understanding the intricacies of capital gains on shares, along with their tax implications, is crucial for investors.

Long-Term Capital Gain on Shares:

Long-term capital gains on shares are calculated by subtracting the sale price from the cost of acquisition of an asset held for more than 12 months. For listed equity shares, this 12-month span is considered, while for unlisted equity shares, the period extends to 24 months to 36 months or more.

Short-Term Capital Gain on Shares:

Short-term capital gains arise from shares held for a period shorter than 36 months (unlisted) or 12 months (listed). Investors often prefer long-term equity shares due to the associated tax benefits when compared to short-term assets.

Long-Term and Short-Term Capital Gain Definitions:

  • Long-Term Capital Gain (LTCG):

    Returns generated over a period of 1 to 3 years, applicable to investments like property, agricultural land, mutual funds, and stocks.

  • Short-Term Capital Gain (STCG):

    Refers to the gain/profit on the sale of short-term capital assets, including listed shares held for less than 12 months.

Calculation of Capital Gain on Equity Shares:

The calculation of capital gains on equity shares involves several factors, including the sale value of assets, cost of asset acquisition, expenses incurred during the sale, indexation (for LTCG), and the holding period.

Tax Implications:

  • Long-Term Capital Gains Tax:

    Underwent reforms in the 2018-19 Union Budget, subjecting gains exceeding Rs. 1 Lakh to a 10% tax rate without indexing. This reform is not applicable to gains received up to January 31st, 2018.

  • Short-Term Capital Gains Tax:

    Taxed at a rate of 15% under Section 111A of the Income Tax Act for equity shares and equity-oriented Mutual Funds, subject to Securities Transaction Tax.

Tax Implications on Foreign Shares:

Capital gains from foreign investments may face double taxation, with long-term gains taxed at 20% and short-term gains at 30%. However, investors can mitigate double taxation liability under Section 91 of the Income Tax Act, of 1961.

Conclusion:

Navigating the landscape of capital gains on shares requires a comprehensive understanding of the nuances involved. Investors should consider factors such as the duration of asset holding, tax implications, and the potential for double taxation in foreign investments. With strategic planning and awareness, investors can make informed decisions, optimize tax liabilities, and unlock the full potential of capital gains on shares.

Available on both IOS and AndroidTry Pluto Money Today 👇
Author
Team Pluto
Have a question?
Digital GoldInvest in 24K Gold with Zero making ChargesLearn More
Digital SilverInvest in silver with Zero making ChargesLearn More
Pluto FixedEarn from 11% to 14% Returns annually in a fixed lock-in periodLearn More