Published Jan 28, 2025 4 Min Read

Realised gains refer to the profit earned when an asset is sold for a price higher than its original purchase cost. These gains are essential in financial planning and investment as they represent actual returns that can be reinvested or used for other purposes. Investors should be aware of how realised gains impact their overall financial health and long-term goals.

When an asset appreciates in value, the gain remains unrealised until the asset is sold. Once sold, the gain is considered realised, and it may be subject to taxation. Realised gains are an important component of wealth accumulation and financial planning, as they can be used to fund future investments or personal expenses.

Why realised gains are important

Why realised gains are important

Realised gains play a crucial role in investment planning as they reflect the tangible profits from an investment. They allow investors to measure their financial success, plan for future investments, and allocate funds effectively. Understanding realised gains helps in managing cash flow and making informed financial decisions.

One of the key benefits of realised gains is that they provide liquidity, enabling investors to access funds for other investment opportunities or personal needs. Additionally, they help investors assess their investment performance over time, allowing them to refine their strategies and align their portfolios with their financial goals.

Furthermore, realised gains can contribute to an individual's wealth-building efforts, as reinvesting these gains can help in compounding returns. They also provide a sense of financial security and stability, as they can be used to meet financial obligations or emergencies.

How realised gains work ?

Realised gains occur when an investor sells an asset, such as stocks, bonds, or real estate, at a higher price than its purchase cost. The gain is calculated by subtracting the original purchase price from the selling price. For example, if an investor buys shares for Rs. 50,000 and sells them for Rs. 70,000, the realised gain is Rs. 20,000.

It is important to note that realised gains can be influenced by various factors, including market conditions, economic trends, and changes in asset valuation. Investors must carefully monitor their investments and consider external factors before making decisions to sell.

Additionally, realised gains can occur in different asset classes, such as:

  • Stocks and equities: Selling shares at a higher price than the purchase price.
  • Real estate: Selling property after its market value appreciates.
  • Bonds: Selling fixed-income securities when their market value increases.
  • Mutual funds: Redeeming units at a higher net asset value (NAV) than the purchase price.

Proper record-keeping and tracking of realised gains are essential for tax compliance and financial planning. Investors should maintain detailed records of their transactions to accurately calculate gains and fulfil tax obligations. 

Taxes on realised investment gains

Realised gains are subject to taxation based on the holding period of the asset. In India, short-term capital gains (if held for less than a specified period) are taxed at a higher rate compared to long-term capital gains (if held for a longer duration). Investors should be aware of tax implications and plan their investments accordingly to minimise tax liabilities.

Tax rates for realised gains are generally classified as follows:

  • Short-term capital gains (STCG): If the asset is sold within one year of purchase, the gains are taxed at a higher rate, usually in line with the investor's applicable income tax slab.
  • Long-term capital gains (LTCG): If the asset is held for more than one year (for equities) or more than two years (for real estate), the gains are taxed at a lower rate, typically around 10-20%, with certain exemptions and deductions available.

To reduce tax liabilities, investors can consider strategies such as:

  • Investing in tax-saving instruments.
  • Holding investments for longer durations to qualify for lower tax rates.
  • Utilizing capital loss offsets to balance out realised gains.

Proper tax planning can help investors maximize their returns and comply with tax regulations effectively.

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Conclusion

Understanding realised gains is crucial for making informed investment decisions. They help investors assess their portfolio performance and strategise future investments. Being aware of tax implications and planning wisely can lead to better financial outcomes.

Investors should regularly review their investment portfolios to identify opportunities to realise gains strategically. Proper planning and diversification can help optimise returns and reduce risks associated with market fluctuations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an example of a realised gain?

A realised gain occurs when an asset is sold for a higher price than its purchase cost. For example, if you buy a stock for Rs. 10,000 and sell it for Rs. 15,000, the Rs. 5,000 profit is a realised gain.

Are you taxed on realised gains?

Yes, realized gains are subject to taxation under the Income Tax Act. When you sell an asset such as stocks, mutual funds, or real estate and make a profit, the gain is considered realised and becomes taxable.

How do you calculate a realised gain?

To calculate a realized gain in India, subtract the purchase price (cost of acquisition) and associated expenses (like brokerage or stamp duty) from the sale price of the asset.

Formula:

Realized Gain = Sale Price - (Purchase Price + Associated Costs)

For indexed gains, use the indexed cost of acquisition for long-term assets, factoring in inflation using the Cost Inflation Index (CII).

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