Investors cashing in on gold's run face higher capital gains taxes: What to know

Core Insights - Gold prices have fluctuated, recently trading below $4,000 per ounce due to a strong dollar and reduced chances of a U.S. interest rate cut, impacting demand for bullion [1] - In October, gold futures reached $4,000 per ounce for the first time, with year-to-date returns around 50%, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 index, which is up about 15% [2] - Gold's performance in 2025 follows a strong 2024, where it recorded a 26% annual increase, the best since 2010 [3] Tax Implications - Investment profits from physical gold and gold-tracking funds are taxed differently than traditional assets, potentially leading to higher tax bills for investors in top brackets [3][4] - Long-term capital gains on collectibles, including physical gold, are taxed at a top rate of 28%, which is higher than the 20% rate for long-term capital gains on stocks [5][6] - Gold futures contracts have a different tax structure, with a top federal tax rate of 26.8%, calculated as 60% of profits taxed at 20% and 40% at 37% [7][12] Investment Considerations - Investors should be aware that not all gold ETFs are taxed the same, and those holding physical gold or collectibles face higher tax rates [6][8] - Holding gold in a taxable brokerage account incurs these tax implications, while gold held in tax-preferred retirement accounts like IRAs is exempt from these rules [9] - The complexity of tax filings for gold futures funds, which often require K-1 forms, may deter some investors despite potential tax advantages [13]