Realized Gain Definition
The amount by which the sale price of an asset exceeds its cost of acquisition. If the price of a stock increases, but it is not sold, the gain is unrealized. Realized gains are income for tax purposes, unless they come from a tax-exempt or tax-deferred asset. The type of taxation varies according to how long the asset has been owned. If the investment was held for more than a year, gains are subject to long-term capital gains rate, which is more favorable than the rate applied to ordinary income.