The event.
A sale, swap, spend, gift, or other transaction may need review under local rules.
Capital Gains
Capital gains tax starts with the event, the value, and the country rules.
This page explains the basic vocabulary readers need before reading official guidance or speaking with an accountant. It is not tax advice.
Capital gains rules vary widely by country and personal facts. The same transaction can be treated differently depending on residence, asset type, holding period, account type, and local rules.
Core Terms
Know the vocabulary before the calculation.
What you received.
Usually the value received or deemed received, but the exact rule depends on country guidance.
Your basis or allowable cost.
Original acquisition cost, fees, and pooling or lot rules may matter.
Difference before local adjustments.
Gain/loss treatment, exemptions, thresholds, and rates are country-specific.
Evidence matters.
Loss treatment depends on reporting rules and documentation.
Proof trail.
Dates, values, fees, transaction IDs, statements, and assumptions support the final filing position.
FAQ
Common capital gains questions.
Is swapping crypto a disposal?
Many tax systems treat some swaps as events that need review. Check your country's official guidance.
Do fees matter?
Fees may affect records, proceeds, cost, or deductions depending on local rules. Keep them documented.
Does holding period matter?
Some countries use holding periods or different rate systems. Others focus on different rules. Verify locally.