What is an Empowerment zone stock?

Empowerment zone stock refers to qualified small business stock issued by corporations conducting all their business within federally designated empowerment zones, which are economically distressed communities selected for special tax incentives. Under Section 1202(a)(2), empowerment zone stock acquired before 2019 is eligible for an enhanced 60% minimum exclusion rate on capital gains, compared to the standard 50% rate for early QSBS acquisitions, providing superior tax treatment for investments in underserved areas. The stock must meet all standard Qualified small business stock requirements, including the five-year holding period, the $50 million gross assets threshold, and active business operations, while also satisfying geographic location requirements within designated zones. Investors can combine empowerment zone stock benefits with Tax loss harvesting strategies to optimize overall portfolio tax efficiency while supporting community development.

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