- 15% if the income is expressed in foreign currency or adjusted
- 35% if it is ordinary local income
- Companies pay on the total annual result
Sale of Shares Capital Gains Tax Argentina: Practical Keys to Declare Without Errors
Do you invest in the stock market and don't know if you have to pay taxes on your profits? In this practical note, we tell you everything you need to know about the sale of shares capital gains tax Argentina: when it applies, how it's calculated, what exceptions exist, and how to correctly declare.
Is the Sale of Shares Taxed in Argentina?
The answer depends on the type of share and the investor profile. For resident natural persons, the sale of shares capital gains tax only applies if the shares are not listed on markets authorized by the National Securities Commission (CNV).
If you sell shares that are listed on BYMA or as CEDEARs and you are a resident natural person, you are exempt. But if you trade unlisted securities, or do so as a company, then the sale of shares is taxed on capital gains.
How to Know if You Should Pay Tax on the Sale of Shares in Argentina
1. Type of Instrument
The key is whether it is listed or not. Listed shares and CEDEARs are exempt for natural persons. Corporate bonds and private shares are not.
2. Type of Subject
Companies, trusts, and non-residents always pay taxes. Resident natural persons only on non-exempt operations.
| Type of Investor | Instrument | Pays Capital Gains |
|---|---|---|
| Resident natural person | BYMA Shares / CEDEAR | No |
| Resident natural person | Private shares | Yes |
| Argentine company | Any share | Yes |
| Non-resident person | Any share | Yes |
How the Result from Sale of Shares Capital Gains Tax is Calculated
The result from sale of shares capital gains tax is calculated as the difference between the sale price and the computable cost. The latter may include inflation adjustments if applicable. A tax rate is applied to the net gain according to the type of income:
| Type of Income | Tax Rate | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Gain in dollars / adjusted | 15% | Natural persons |
| Ordinary gain | 35% | Companies |
| Foreign income | 15% or exemption | Non-residents (according to agreement) |
Practical Example: Exempt Operation vs. Taxed Operation
(Simplified example without considering commissions or withholdings)
Juan buys Apple CEDEARs at $5,000 and sells them at $6,000. As he is a natural person and operated on BYMA, he is exempt from the tax.
On the other hand, María sells shares of an unlisted SME for $1,000,000 that cost her $700,000. The result is $300,000. As it is a taxable sale, she pays 15%, that is, $45,000 in tax.
How to Declare Gains in the Tax Return?
AFIP allows declaring stock market operations through the Simplified Regime or through a traditional tax return, depending on the amount. Local brokers usually issue annual reports. If you operate on platforms like Pocket Option, which do not automatically report in Argentina, you must keep your own detailed record of operations, dividends, and settlement dates.
What Happens if I Don’t Declare a Sale of Shares?
If you don’t report a taxable sale of shares capital gains tax, you incur tax evasion. AFIP cross-references data with brokers, banks, and public records. Sanctions may include high fines and, in serious cases, criminal consequences.
Does Pocket Option Report to AFIP?
Pocket Option is an international platform and does not automatically report to AFIP. However, if you transfer funds to a bank account in Argentina or generate taxable income, you are obligated to declare them.
Recommendations for Argentine Investors
- Verify if your operation is subject to tax or exempt
- Keep accurate records of each purchase, sale, and dividends
- Consult with an accountant if you have any tax questions
- Use Pocket Option to practice strategies before investing real funds
Conclusion
The sale of shares capital gains tax Argentina is a key topic for any investor who wants to operate with peace of mind. Knowing if the sale of shares is taxed on capital gains, how to correctly calculate the result from sale of shares capital gains tax, and declaring what is necessary in a timely manner can save you sanctions, fines, and legal complications.
FAQ
When does the sale of shares pay tax in Argentina?
When they are unlisted shares or if the investor is a company or non-resident.
Which shares are exempt from income tax?
Those listed on BYMA or CEDEARs, if they are operated by a resident natural person.
What tax rate applies if I sell private shares?
Generally, 15% on adjusted gain or expressed in dollars.
Does Pocket Option report my earnings to AFIP?
No. But if you transfer funds to an Argentine account or generate taxable income, you must declare it.
How do I know if I should declare an operation?
If you generated gain subject to tax, even if minimal, it should be declared in your annual filing.