Series 6: 4.3.1. Calculating Capital Gains And Losses

4.3.1.  Calculating Capital Gains and Losses

Gains and losses are calculated by subtracting what was received for the security at sale (proceeds) by what was paid for the security at purchase plus any commissions (the cost basis). The proceeds are the money that is received from the sale minus the commission paid. The cost basis is the money paid for the security plus any commission or fees. For example, if an investor paid $20 per share for 100 shares of XYZ and a $40 commission, the cost basis per share will be $20.40. The $40 commission on a per share basis is $0.40, so $2,040 / 100 shares = $20.40 per share. If the investor now sold all 100 shares at $25 for $2,500 with a $40 commission, the proceeds would be $2,500 – $40 commission = $2,460 net. Divided by 100 shares, the net proceeds per share would be $24.60. Therefore, the capital gain per share would be $24.60 – $20.40 = $4.20 per share, or $420 total for the 100 shares.

Appreciation in value on a security is not taxed until the security is actually sold. Before the security is sold, any appreciation is referred to as an unrealized capital gain. When