Description
Returns the capital gains distribution history for a given ticker symbol. Capital gains distributions are primarily relevant for mutual funds and ETFs, which are required to distribute realized capital gains to shareholders annually.Capital gains distributions are typically only applicable to mutual funds and ETFs. Most individual stocks will return empty data for this tool.
Parameters
Ticker symbol (e.g., “VFINX”, “SPY”, “VTI”)
Output format:
"json" or "markdown"Number of rows to preview in markdown format (min: 1, max: 200)
Save results to a file
Data Structure
Returns a pandas Series with:- Index: Distribution dates (datetime)
- Values: Capital gains amount per share (float)
Example
When Are Capital Gains Distributed?
Mutual funds and ETFs distribute capital gains when they:- Sell securities at a profit: When the fund manager sells holdings that have appreciated
- Required by law: Funds must distribute at least 98% of realized gains annually
- End of year distributions: Most distributions occur in December
- Tax implications: Shareholders owe taxes on distributions even if they reinvest
Difference from Dividends
| Aspect | Capital Gains | Dividends |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Fund sells appreciated securities | Company profits or fund dividend income |
| Frequency | Usually annual (December) | Quarterly or monthly |
| Predictability | Variable, depends on fund activity | More consistent |
| Tax treatment | Long-term or short-term capital gains rates | Qualified or ordinary dividend rates |
| Who pays | Primarily mutual funds and ETFs | Stocks, funds, and ETFs |
Use Cases
- Calculate total return including capital gains distributions
- Assess tax efficiency of mutual funds and ETFs
- Compare distribution patterns across funds
- Plan tax strategies for taxable accounts
- Evaluate index funds vs. actively managed funds (index funds typically have lower capital gains distributions)
Related Tools
- yf_ticker_dividends - Get dividend history
- yf_ticker_splits - Get stock split history
- yf_ticker_info - Get fund category and management info
Tax-Efficient Alternatives
For taxable accounts, consider:- ETFs over mutual funds: ETFs typically have lower capital gains distributions due to their structure
- Index funds: Lower turnover means fewer capital gains
- Tax-managed funds: Specifically designed to minimize distributions