What is total capital gains in the US?

Total capital gains in the U.S. refer to the profit earned from the sale of assets or investments, such as stocks, real estate, and other properties, that have increased in value. These gains can be classified as short-term (for assets held for one year or less) or long-term (for assets held for more than a year), with different tax rates applied to each. The total capital gains can fluctuate annually based on market conditions and individual investment activities, and they are reported on tax returns, influencing overall tax liabilities. As of recent years, capital gains have become a significant focus in discussions about tax policy and economic inequality.