Your company will also still exist after an asset sale, and administratively you will still need to take steps to dissolve the company and deal with any remaining liabilities and assets. Unlike a stock sale, 100% of the interests of a company can usually be transferred without the consent of all of the stockholders.
Disadvantages of Asset Sale The seller is subject to a double layer of taxation. Transferring assets may be more complicated. Agreements tied to certain assets may need to be renegotiated.
The benefit of an asset sale, from the buyer's perspective, is that it can select which assets and liabilities to acquire in the deal, compared to a stock sale or merger, where the buyer acquires all the assets and liabilities of the target.
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.
From the tax perspective of the buyer, an asset sale allows for a step-up in the tax basis of the assets acquired. This often allows the buyer to increase their depreciation and amortization deductions in the future, which can result in lower tax bills.
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.
Key Takeaways. In an asset sale, a firm sells some or all of its actual assets, either tangible or intangible. The seller retains legal ownership of the company that has sold the assets but has no further recourse to the sold assets. The buyer assumes no liabilities in an asset sale.
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.
Disadvantages of Asset Sale The seller is subject to a double layer of taxation. Transferring assets may be more complicated. Agreements tied to certain assets may need to be renegotiated.
The tax doesn't apply to unsold investments or unrealized capital gains. Stock shares won't incur taxes until they're sold no matter how long the shares are held or how much they increase in value.