Sukdev Basi Funded an Irrevocable Simple Trust in May 2008

question 42

Essay

Sukdev Basi funded an irrevocable simple trust in May 2008. The trust benefits Sukdev's son for life and grandson upon the son's death. One of the assets he transferred to the trust was Jetco stock, which had an FMV on the transfer date of $40,000. Sukdev's basis in the stock was $44,000, and he paid no gift tax on the transfer. The stock's value has dropped to $33,000, and the trustee thinks that now, October 2011, might be the time to sell the stock and take the loss deduction. For 2011, the trust will have $20,000 of income exclusive of any gain or loss. Sukdev's taxable income is approximately $15,000. What tax and nontax issues should the trustee consider concerning the possible sale of the stock?

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Definitions:

Quantity of Money

The total amount of money available in an economy, including all physical money and digital balances, governed by the central bank's monetary policy.

Low Levels of Inflation

A situation characterized by a slow rise in the general level of prices for goods and services over a period, indicating a stable economic environment.

Mechanical Loom

A machine for weaving cloth or tapestry automatically, significantly impacting textile production efficiency.

Cotton Cloth

A durable, versatile fabric made from the fibers of the cotton plant, used in a wide range of garments and textiles.