What qualifies as a capital gain?

A capital gain is defined as the increase in the value of an asset over time. It represents the profit that potentially results from selling an asset at a higher price than the original purchase price. This gain is realized when the asset is sold, and it signifies a positive financial outcome for the investor.

In the context of investing, a capital gain reflects successful investment decisions and market performance, distinguishing it from other financial measures. For example, options that discuss a decrease in asset value or taxes focus on losses or liabilities rather than gains, which are essential in assessing the overall profitability of an investment. The option that mentions the return on initial investment could imply a broader concept that includes both gains and losses, not specifically highlighting the gain aspect. Therefore, understanding that a capital gain specifically refers to the increases in asset value is crucial in finance.