Hiram Is a Computer Engineer And, While Unemployed, Invents a Switching

question 63

Multiple Choice

Hiram is a computer engineer and, while unemployed, invents a switching device for computer networks. He patents the device, but does not reduce it to practice. Hiram has a zero tax basis for the patent. In consideration of $800,000 plus a $1 royalty per device sold, Hiram assigns the patent to a computer manufacturing company. Hiram assigned all substantial rights in the patent. Which of the following is correct?

• A)Hiram automatically has long-term capital gain from the lump sum payment, but not from the royalty payments.
• B)Hiram automatically has long-term capital gain from the royalty payments, but not from the lump sum payment.
• C)Hiram automatically has long-term capital gain from both the lump sum payment and the royalty payments.
• D)Hiram does not have automatic long-term capital gain from either the lump sum payment or the royalty payments.
• E)None of the above.

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Definitions:

Market Price

The current price at which an asset or service can be bought or sold in the open market.

Equilibrium Price

The price at which the quantity of a good or service demanded equals the quantity supplied, resulting in market balance.

Demand

The willingness and ability of consumers to purchase goods or services at a given price level.