What is meant by the "cost basis" of an investment?

The "cost basis" of an investment refers to the original value of an asset for tax purposes. This amount includes the purchase price of the asset plus any associated costs, such as commissions and fees. Understanding the cost basis is critical for investors, as it impacts the calculation of capital gains or losses when an asset is sold. When an investment is sold, the difference between the selling price and the cost basis determines the taxable profit or loss. This concept is essential in tax reporting and helps investors accurately assess their investment performance over time.

The other options related to current market value, selling price, and average annual return do not represent the cost basis, as they focus on different financial aspects of the investment and do not reflect the foundational investment amount for tax assessment.