Realised gain
Also known as: realized gain, crystallised gain
The gain that becomes taxable when you actually dispose of a crypto asset, as opposed to a paper gain on assets you still hold.
Definition
A realised gain is locked in when you dispose of an asset — sell, swap or spend it — calculated as proceeds less base cost. Only realised gains feed into the CGT calculation. A rise in the value of crypto you still hold is an unrealised gain and is not taxed until disposal.
Example
You bought BTC at R300,000 and it is now worth R500,000. If you do not sell, the R200,000 is unrealised. The day you sell, it becomes a realised gain.
Jurisdiction notes
- South Africa: SARS taxes realised gains on disposal; unrealised movements in value are not taxed while you hold the asset.