Disadvantages of an asset sale More complex: Since individual assets need to be transferred, the transaction can be more time-consuming and require more paperwork. Consents and assignments: Some contracts or agreements may require specific consents or approvals for the transfer of assets.
Generally speaking, sales of assets such as equipment, buildings, vehicles and furniture will be taxed at ordinary income tax rates, while intangible assets such as goodwill or intellectual property will be taxed at capital gains rates.
Complexity: Transactions within a share sale are less complex than in an asset sale. The only required transfer is the transfer of shares. An asset sale is more complex because it requires more documentation, including transfer papers and third party consent forms.
In an asset sale, the ownership of these acquired assets would change hands, with the buyer negotiating separately for each asset. In a stock sale, ownership of such assets does not change hands in the same way. The target still retains its ownership typically, even if the target has a new owner.
Stock purchases refer to buying shares of the selling business. Asset deals occur when the buyer acquires the target company's operating assets. The seller retains complete business ownership following an asset transaction, and no business ownership is transferred to the buyer.
Asset sales offer tax advantages and selective asset acquisition, but can be complex and require additional time and costs. Equity sales provide simplicity and continuity, but require the buyer to assume all liabilities. Both types of transactions involve important accounting considerations and post-close diligence.
The short answer is that a stock sale is better for you, the seller, while the buyer benefits from an asset sale. But, since we're talking about the IRS, there are infinite variations and complications. As such, you will want to get professional tax and legal advice before proceeding.
In an asset sale, the ownership of these acquired assets would change hands, with the buyer negotiating separately for each asset. In a stock sale, ownership of such assets does not change hands in the same way. The target still retains its ownership typically, even if the target has a new owner.
In a share deal, the buyer acquires a separate legal entity, while under an asset deal the assets and liabilities acquired can be transferred directly into the purchasing legal entity. However, it is often useful to establish a separate legal entity that takes over the business that was acquired via the asset deal.