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This edited version has been archived due to the length of time since original publication. It should not be regarded as indicative of the ATO's current views. The law may have changed since original publication, and views in the edited version may also be affected by subsequent precedents and new approaches to the application of the law.

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Edited version of your written advice

Authorisation Number: 1012726763342

Ruling

Subject: Capital losses

Question

Are you entitled to declare a capital loss in relation to your shares?

Answer

No.

This ruling applies for the following period

Year ending 30 June 2015

The scheme commences on

1 July 2014

Relevant facts and circumstances

You purchased shares in a company.

You paid approximately $X for the shares.

Through a combination of takeovers, stock consolidation and very poor returns these shares are now worth approximately $Y.

You are unable to sell the shares unless you pay additional funds to either a broker or to set up an international brokerage account.

There has been no declaration made by liquidators or administrators that the shares are worthless.

Relevant legislative provisions

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 section 104-10

Reasons for decision

Section 104-10 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997) provides that capital gains tax (CGT) event A1 happens to a taxpayer on the disposal of a CGT asset where there is a change of ownership from the taxpayer to another entity. This change of ownership is taken to have occurred either upon entering a contract for the disposal of the asset, or if there is no contract, when the change of ownership occurs (subsection 104-10(3) of the ITAA 1997).

In this case you have not disposed of your shares and no CGT event has occurred. Therefore, you are not entitled to declare a capital loss in relation to the shares.


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