The Art of Losing in Investing: Harvesting Tax Losses for a Positive Impact

Abstract

Paying taxes is universally disliked. Tax-loss harvesting strategies help offset the capital gains tax investors incur. Tax-loss harvesting involves selling stocks that have returned negative over a recent time period. These recognized losses can offset investment gains and therefore lower the investor’s capital gains tax bill. The authors argue that tax-loss harvesting strategies are smart beta momentum strategies in disguise. They also argue that just as momentum strategies are managed year-round, tax-loss harvesting strategies should be too, not just in December.