[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 26, Volume 10]
[Revised as of April 1, 2004]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 26CFR1.988-2]

[Page 587-614]
 
                       TITLE 26--INTERNAL REVENUE
 
    CHAPTER I--INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY 
                               (CONTINUED)
 
PART 1_INCOME TAXES--Table of Contents
 
Sec. 1.988-2  Recognition and computation of exchange gain or loss.

    (a) Disposition of nonfunctional currency--(1) Recognition of 
exchange gain or loss--(i) In general. Except as otherwise provided in 
this section, Sec. 1.988-1(a)(7)(ii), and Sec. 1.988-5, the 
recognition of exchange gain or loss upon the sale or other disposition 
of nonfunctional currency shall be governed by the recognition 
provisions of the Internal Revenue Code which apply to the sale or 
disposition of property (e.g., section 1001 or, to the extent provided 
in regulations, section 1092). The disposition of nonfunctional currency 
in settlement of a forward contract, futures contract, option contract, 
or similar financial instrument is considered to be a sale or 
disposition of the nonfunctional currency for purposes of the preceding 
sentence.
    (ii) Clarification of section 1031. An amount of one nonfunctional 
currency is not ``property of like kind'' with respect to an amount of a 
different nonfunctional currency.
    (iii) Coordination with section 988(c)(1)(C)(ii). No exchange gain 
or loss is recognized with respect to the following transactions--
    (A) An exchange of units of nonfunctional currency for different 
units of the same nonfunctional currency;
    (B) The deposit of nonfunctional currency in a demand or time 
deposit or similar instrument (including a certificate of deposit) 
issued by a bank or other financial institution if such instrument is 
denominated in such currency;
    (C) The withdrawal of nonfunctional currency from a demand or time 
deposit or similar instrument issued by a bank or other financial 
institution if such instrument is denominated in such currency;
    (D) The receipt of nonfunctional currency from a bank or other 
financial institution from which the taxpayer purchased a certificate of 
deposit or similar instrument denominated in such currency by reason of 
the maturing or other termination of such instrument; and
    (E) The transfer of nonfunctional currency from a demand or time 
deposit or similar instrument issued by a bank or other financial 
institution to another demand or time deposit or similar instrument 
denominated in the same nonfunctional currency issued by a bank or other 
financial institution.

The taxpayer's basis in the units of nonfunctional currency or other 
property received in the transaction shall be the adjusted basis of the 
units of nonfunctional currency or other property transferred. See 
paragraph (b) of this section with respect to the timing of interest 
income or expense and the determination of exchange gain or loss 
thereon.
    (iv) Example. The following example illustrates the provisions of 
paragraph (a)(1)(iii) of this section.

    Example. X is a corporation on the accrual method of accounting with 
the U.S. dollar as its functional currency. On January 1, 1989, X 
acquires 1,500 British pounds ([pound]) for $2,250 ([pound]1 = $1.50). 
On January 3, 1989, when the spot rate is [pound]1 = $1.49, X deposits 
the [pound]1,500 with a British financial institution in a non-interest 
bearing demand account. On February 1,

[[Page 588]]

1989, when the spot rate is [pound]1 = $1.45, X withdraws the 
[pound]1,500. On February 5, 1989, when the spot rate is [pound]1 = 
$1.42, X purchases inventory in the amount of [pound]1,500. Pursuant to 
paragraph (a)(1)(iii) of this section, no exchange loss is realized 
until February 5, 1989, when X disposes of the [pound]1,500 for 
inventory. At that time, X realizes exchange loss in the amount of $120 
computed under paragraph (a)(2) of this section. The loss is not an 
adjustment to the cost of the inventory.

    (2) Computation of gain or loss--(i) In general. Exchange gain 
realized from the sale or other disposition of nonfunctional currency 
shall be the excess of the amount realized over the adjusted basis of 
such currency, and exchange loss realized shall be the excess of the 
adjusted basis of such currency over the amount realized.
    (ii) Amount realized--(A) In general. The amount realized from the 
disposition of nonfunctional currency shall be determined under section 
1001(b). A taxpayer that uses a spot rate convention under Sec. 1.988-
1(d)(3) to determine exchange gain or loss with respect to a payable 
shall determine the amount realized upon the disposition of 
nonfunctional currency paid in satisfaction of the payable in a manner 
consistent with such convention.
    (B) Exchange of nonfunctional currency for property. For purpose of 
paragraph (a)(2) of this section, the exchange of nonfunctional currency 
for property (other than nonfunctional currency) shall be treated as--
    (1) An exchange of the units of nonfunctional currency for units of 
functional currency at the spot rate on the date of the exchange, and
    (2) The purchase or sale of the property for such units of 
functional currency.
    (C) Example. The following example illustrates the provisions of 
paragraph (a)(2)(ii)(B) of this section.

    Example. G is a U.S. corporation with the U.S. dollar as its 
functional currency. On January 1, 1989, G enters into a contract to 
purchase a paper manufacturing machine for 10,000,000 British pounds 
([pound]) for delivery on January 1, 1991. On January 1, 1991, when G 
exchanges [pound]10,000,000 (which G purchased for $12,000,000) for the 
machine, the fair market value of the machine is [pound]17,000,000. On 
January 1, 1991, the spot exchange rate is [pound]1 = $1.50. Under 
paragraph (a)(2)(ii)(B) of this section, the transaction is treated as 
an exchange of [pound]10,000,000 for $15,000,000 and the purchase of the 
machine for $15,000,000. Accordingly, in computing G's exchange gain of 
$3,000,000 on the disposition of the [pound]10,000,000, the amount 
realized is $15,000,000. G's basis in the machine is $15,000,000. No 
gain is recognized on the bargain purchase of the machine.

    (iii) Adjusted basis--(A) In general. Except as provided in 
paragraph (a)(2)(iii)(B) of this section, the adjusted basis of 
nonfunctional currency is determined under the applicable provisions of 
the Internal Revenue Code (e.g., sections 1011 through 1023). A taxpayer 
that uses a spot rate convention under Sec. 1.988-1 (d)(3) to determine 
exchange gain or loss with respect to a receivable shall determine the 
basis of nonfunctional currency received in satisfaction of such 
receivable in a manner consistent with such convention.
    (B) Determination of the basis of nonfunctional currency withdrawn 
from an account with a bank or other financial institution--(1) In 
general. The basis of nonfunctional currency withdrawn from an account 
with a bank or other financial institution shall be determined under any 
reasonable method that is consistently applied from year to year by the 
taxpayer to all accounts denominated in a nonfunctional currency. For 
example, a taxpayer may use a first in first out method, a last in first 
out method, a pro rata method (as illustrated in the example below), or 
any other reasonable method that is consistently applied. However, a 
method that consistently results in units of nonfunctional currency with 
the highest basis being withdrawn first shall not be considered 
reasonable.
    (2) Example. The following example illustrates the provisions of 
this paragraph (a)(2)(iii)(B).

    Example. (i) X, a cash basis individual with the dollar as his 
functional currency, opens a demand account with a Swiss bank. Assume 
expenses associated with the demand account are deductible under section 
212. The following chart indicates Swiss franc deposits to the account, 
Swiss franc interest credited to the account, the dollar basis of each 
deposit, and the determination of the aggregate dollar basis of all 
Swiss francs in the account. Assume that the taxpayer has properly 
translated all the amounts specified in the chart and that all 
transactions are subject to section 988.

[[Page 589]]



----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                      Aggregate
               Date                  Swiss francs deposited       Interest received     U.S. dollar  U.S. dollar
                                                                                           basis        basis
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1/01/89..........................  1000 Sf                    ........................         $500         $500
3/31/89..........................  .........................  50 Sf                              25          525
6/30/89..........................  .........................  50 Sf                              24          549
9/30/89..........................  .........................  50 Sf                              25          574
12/31/89.........................  .........................  50 Sf                              26          600
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (ii) On January 1, 1990, X withdraws 500 Swiss francs from the 
account. X may determine his basis in the Swiss francs by multiplying 
the aggregate U.S. dollar basis of Swiss francs in the account by a 
fraction the numerator of which is the number of Swiss francs withdrawn 
from the account and the denominator is the total number of Swiss francs 
in the account. Under this method, X's basis in the 500 Swiss francs is 
$250 computed as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC09OC91.070

    (iii) X's basis in the Swiss francs remaining in the account is $350 
($600-$250). X must use this method consistently from year to year with 
respect to withdrawals of nonfunctional currency from all of X's 
accounts.
    (iv) Purchase and sale of stock or securities traded on an 
established securities market by cash basis taxpayer--
    (A) Amount realized. If stock or securities traded on an established 
securities market are sold by a cash basis taxpayer for nonfunctional 
currency, the amount realized with respect to the stock or securities 
(as determined on the trade date) shall be computed by translating the 
units of nonfunctional currency received into functional currency at the 
spot rate on the settlement date of the sale. This rule applies 
notwithstanding that the stock or securities are treated as disposed of 
on a date other than the settlement date under another section of the 
Code. See section 453(k).
    (B) Basis. If stock or securities traded on an established 
securities market are purchased by a cash basis taxpayer for 
nonfunctional currency, the basis of the stock or securities shall be 
determined by translating the units of nonfunctional currency paid into 
functional currency at the spot rate on the settlement date of the 
purchase.

    (C) Example. The following example illustrates the provisions of 
this paragraph (a)(2)(iv).

    Example. On November 1, 1989 (the trade date), X, a calendar year 
cash basis U.S. individual, purchases stock for [pound]100 for 
settlement on November 5, 1989. On November 1, 1989, the spot value of 
the [pound]100 is $140. On November 5, 1989, X purchases [pound]100 for 
$141 which X uses to pay for the stock. X's basis in the stock is $141. 
On December 30, 1990 (the trade date), X sells the stock for [pound]110 
for settlement on January 5, 1991. On December 30, 1990, the spot value 
of [pound]110 is $165. On January 5, 1991, X transfers the stock and 
receives [pound]110 which, translated at the spot rate, equal $166. 
Under section 453(k), the stock is considered disposed of on December 
30, 1990. The amount realized with respect to such disposition is the 
value of the [pound]110 on January 5, 1991 ($166). Accordingly, X's gain 
realized on December 30, 1990, from the disposition of the stock is $25 
($166 amount realized less $141 basis). X's basis in the [pound]110 
received from the sale of the stock is $166.

    (v) Purchase and sale of stock or securities traded on an 
established securities market by accrual basis taxpayer. For taxable 
years beginning after March 17, 1992, an accrual basis taxpayer may 
elect to apply the rules of paragraph (a)(2)(iv) of this section. The 
election shall be made by filing a statement with the taxpayer's first 
return in which the election is effective clearly indicating that the 
election has been made. A method so elected must be applied consistently 
from year to year and cannot be changed without the consent of the 
Commissioner.
    (b) Translation of interest income or expense and determination of 
exchange gain or loss with respect to debt instruments--(1) Translation 
of interest income received with respect to a nonfunctional currency 
demand account. Interest income received with respect to a demand 
account with a bank or other financial institution which is denominated 
in (or the payments of which are determined by reference to) a 
nonfunctional currency shall be translated into functional currency at 
the spot rate on the date received or accrued or pursuant to any 
reasonable spot rate convention consistently applied by the taxpayer to 
all taxable years and to all accounts denominated in nonfunctional 
currency in the same financial institution. For

[[Page 590]]

example, a taxpayer may translate interest income received with respect 
to a demand account on the last day of each month of the taxable year, 
on the last day of each quarter of the taxable year, on the last day of 
each half of the taxable year, or on the last day of the taxable year. 
No exchange gain or loss is realized upon the receipt or accrual of 
interest income with respect to a demand account subject to this 
paragraph (b)(1).
    (2) Translation of nonfunctional currency interest income or expense 
received or paid with respect to a debt instrument described in Sec. 
1.988-1(a)(1)(ii) and (2)(i)--(i) Scope--(A) In general. Paragraph (b) 
of this section only applies to debt instruments described in Sec. 
1.988-1(a)(1)(ii) and (2)(i) where all payments are denominated in, or 
determined with reference to, a single nonfunctional currency. Except as 
provided in paragraph (b)(2)(i)(B) of this section, this paragraph (b) 
shall not apply to contingent payment debt instruments.
    (B) Nonfunctional currency contingent payment debt instruments--(1) 
Operative rules. [Reserved]
    (2) Certain instruments are not contingent payment debt instruments. 
For purposes of section 1275(d), a debt instrument denominated in, or 
all payments of which are determined with reference to, a single 
nonfunctional currency (with no contingencies) is not a contingent 
payment debt instrument. See Sec. 1.988-1(a)(4) and (5) for the 
treatment of dual currency and multi-currency debt instruments.
    (ii) Determination and translation of interest income or expense--
(A) In general. Interest income or expense on a debt instrument 
described in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section (including original 
issue discount determined in accordance with sections 1271 through 1275 
and 163(e) as adjusted for acquisition premium under section 1272(a)(7), 
and acquisition discount determined in accordance with sections 1281 
through 1283) shall be determined in units of nonfunctional currency and 
translated into functional currency as provided in paragraphs 
(b)(2)(ii)(B) and (C) of this section. For purposes of sections 483, 
1273(b)(5) and 1274, the nonfunctional currency in which an instrument 
is denominated (or by reference to which payments are determined) shall 
be considered money.
    (B) Translation of interest income or expense that is not required 
to be accrued prior to receipt or payment. With respect to an instrument 
described in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section, interest income or 
expense received or paid that is not required to be accrued by the 
taxpayer prior to receipt or payment shall be translated at the spot 
rate on the date of receipt or payment. No exchange gain or loss is 
realized with respect to the receipt or payment of such interest income 
or expense (other than the exchange gain or loss that might be realized 
under paragraph (a) of this section upon the disposition of the 
nonfunctional currency so received or paid).
    (C) Translation of interest income or expense that is required to be 
accrued prior to receipt or payment. With respect to an instrument 
described in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section, interest income or 
expense that is required to be accrued prior to receipt or payment 
(e.g., under section 1272, 1281 or 163(e) or because the taxpayer uses 
an accrual method of accounting) shall be translated at the average rate 
(or other rate specified in paragraph (b)(2)(iii)(B) of this section) 
for the interest accrual period or, with respect to an interest accrual 
period that spans two taxable years, at the average rate (or other rate 
specified in paragraph (b)(2)(iii)(B) of this section) for the partial 
period within the taxable year. See paragraphs (b)(3) and (4) of this 
section for the determination of exchange gain or loss on the receipt or 
payment of accrued interest income or expense.
    (iii) Determination of average rate or other accrual convention--(A) 
In general. For purposes of this paragraph (b), the average rate for an 
accrual period (or partial period) shall be a simple average of the spot 
exchange rates for each business day of such period or other average 
exchange rate for the period reasonably derived and consistently applied 
by the taxpayer.
    (B) Election to use spot accrual convention. For taxable years 
beginning after March 17, 1992, a taxpayer may elect to translate 
interest income and expense at the spot rate on the last day of the 
interest accrual period (and in the case

[[Page 591]]

of a partial accrual period, the spot rate on the last day of the 
taxable year). If the last day of the interest accrual period is within 
five business days of the date of receipt or payment, the taxpayer may 
translate interest income or expense at the spot rate on the date of 
receipt or payment. The election shall be made by filing a statement 
with the taxpayer's first return in which the election is effective 
clearly indicating that the election has been made. A method so elected 
must be applied consistently to all debt instruments from year to year 
and cannot be changed without the consent of the Commissioner.
    (3) Exchange gain or loss recognized by the holder with respect to 
accrued interest income. The holder of a debt instrument described in 
paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section shall realize exchange gain or loss 
with respect to accrued interest income on the date such accrued 
interest income is received or the instrument is disposed of (including 
a deemed disposition under section 1001 that results from a material 
change in terms of the instrument). Except as otherwise provided in this 
paragraph (b) (e.g., paragraph (b)(8) of this section), exchange gain or 
loss realized with respect to accrued interest income shall be 
recognized in accordance with the applicable recognition provisions of 
the Internal Revenue Code. The amount of exchange gain or loss so 
realized with respect to accrued interest income is determined for each 
accrual period by--
    (i) Translating the units of nonfunctional currency interest income 
received with respect to such accrual period (as determined under the 
ordering rules of paragraph (b)(7) of this section) into functional 
currency at the spot rate on the date the interest income is received or 
the instrument is disposed of (or deemed disposed of), and
    (ii) Subtracting from such amount the amount computed by translating 
the units of nonfunctional currency interest income accrued with respect 
to such income received at the average rate (or other rate specified in 
paragraph (b)(2)(iii)(B) of this section) for the accrual period.
    (4) Exchange gain or loss recognized by the obligor with respect to 
accrued interest expense. The obligor under a debt instrument described 
in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section shall realize exchange gain or 
loss with respect to accrued interest expense on the date such accrued 
interest expense is paid or the obligation to make payments is 
transferred or extinguished (including a deemed disposition under 
section 1001 that results from a material change in terms of the 
instrument). Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph (b) (e.g., 
paragraph (b)(8) of this section), exchange gain or loss realized with 
respect to accrued interest expense shall be recognized in accordance 
with the applicable recognition provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. 
The amount of exchange gain or loss so realized with respect to accrued 
interest expense is determined for each accrual period by--
    (i) Translating the units of nonfunctional currency interest expense 
accrued with respect to the amount of interest paid into functional 
currency at the average rate (or other rate specified in paragraph 
(b)(2)(iii)(B) of this section) for such accrual period; and
    (ii) Subtracting from such amount the amount computed by translating 
the units of nonfunctional currency interest paid (or, if the obligation 
to make payments is extinguished or transferred, the units accrued) with 
respect to such accrual period (as determined under the ordering rules 
in paragraph (b)(7) of this section) into functional currency at the 
spot rate on the date payment is made or the obligation is transferred 
or extinguished (or deemed extinguished).
    (5) Exchange gain or loss recognized by the holder of a debt 
instrument with respect to principal. The holder of a debt instrument 
described in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section shall realize exchange 
gain or loss with respect to the principal amount of such instrument on 
the date principal (determined under the ordering rules of paragraph 
(b)(7) of this section) is received from the obligor or the instrument 
is disposed of (including a deemed disposition under section 1001 that 
results from a material change in terms of the instrument). For purposes 
of computing exchange gain or loss, the principal amount of a debt 
instrument is

[[Page 592]]

the holder's purchase price in units of nonfunctional currency. See 
paragraph (b)(10) of this section for rules regarding the amortization 
of that part of the principal amount that represents bond premium and 
the computation of exchange gain or loss thereon. If, however, the 
holder acquired the instrument in a transaction in which exchange gain 
or loss was realized but not recognized by the transferor, the 
nonfunctional currency principal amount of the instrument with respect 
to the holder shall be the same as that of the transferor. Except as 
otherwise provided in this paragraph (b) (e.g., paragraph (b)(8) of this 
section), exchange gain or loss realized with respect to such principal 
amount shall be recognized in accordance with the applicable recognition 
provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. The amount of exchange gain or 
loss so realized by the holder with respect to principal is determined 
by--
    (i) Translating the units of nonfunctional currency principal at the 
spot rate on the date payment is received or the instrument is disposed 
of (or deemed disposed of); and
    (ii) Subtracting from such amount the amount computed by translating 
the units of nonfunctional currency principal at the spot rate on the 
date the holder (or a transferor from whom the nonfunctional principal 
amount is carried over) acquired the instrument (is deemed to acquire 
the instrument).
    (6) Exchange gain or loss recognized by the obligor of a debt 
instrument with respect to principal. The obligor under a debt 
instrument described in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section shall 
realize exchange gain or loss with respect to the principal amount of 
such instrument on the date principal (determined under the ordering 
rules of paragraph (b)(7) of this section) is paid or the obligation to 
make payments is transferred or extinguished (including a deemed 
disposition under section 1001 that results from a material change in 
terms of the instrument). For purposes of computing exchange gain or 
loss, the principal amount of a debt instrument is the amount received 
by the obligor for the debt instrument in units of nonfunctional 
currency. See paragraph (b)(10) of this section for rules regarding the 
amortization of that part of the principal amount that represents bond 
premium and the computation of exchange gain or loss thereon. If, 
however, the obligor became the obligor in a transaction in which 
exchange gain or loss was realized but not recognized by the transferor, 
the nonfunctional currency principal amount of the instrument with 
respect to such obligor shall be the same as that of the transferor. 
Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph (b) (e.g., paragraph 
(b)(8) of this section), exchange gain or loss realized with respect to 
such principal shall be recognized in accordance with the applicable 
recognition provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. The amount of 
exchange gain or loss so realized by the obligor is determined by--
    (i) Translating the units of nonfunctional currency principal at the 
spot rate on the date the obligor (or a transferor from whom the 
principal amount is carried over) became the obligor (or is deemed to 
have become the obligor); and
    (ii) Subtracting from such amount the amount computed by translating 
the units of nonfunctional currency principal at the spot rate on the 
date payment is made or the obligation is transferred or extinguished 
(or deemed extinguished).
    (7) Payment ordering rules--(i) Debt instruments subject to the 
rules of sections 163(e), or 1271 through 1288. In the case of a debt 
instrument described in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section that is 
subject to the rules of sections 163(e), or 1272 through 1288, units of 
nonfunctional currency (or an amount determined with reference to 
nonfunctional currency) received or paid with respect to such debt 
instrument shall be treated first as a receipt or payment of periodic 
interest under the principles of section 1273 and the regulations 
thereunder, second as a receipt or payment of original issue discount to 
the extent accrued as of the date of the receipt or payment, and finally 
as a receipt or payment of principal. Units of nonfunctional currency 
(or an amount determined with reference to nonfunctional currency) 
treated as a receipt or payment of original issue discount under the 
preceding sentence are attributed to the earliest accrual period in 
which

[[Page 593]]

original issue discount has accrued and to which prior receipts or 
payments have not been attributed. No portion thereof shall be treated 
as prepaid interest. These rules are illustrated by Example 10 of 
paragraph (b)(9) of this section.
    (ii) Other debt instruments. In the case of a debt instrument 
described in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section that is not subject to 
the rules of section 163(e) or 1272 through 1288, whether units of 
nonfunctional currency (or an amount determined with reference to 
nonfunctional currency) received or paid with respect to such debt 
instrument are treated as interest or principal shall be determined 
under section 163 or other applicable section of the Code.
    (8) Limitation of exchange gain or loss on payment or disposition of 
a debt instrument. When a debt instrument described in paragraph 
(b)(2)(i) of this section is paid or disposed of, or when the obligation 
to make payments thereunder is satisfied by another person, or 
extinguished or assumed by another person, exchange gain or loss is 
computed with respect to both principal and any accrued interest 
(including original issue discount), as provided in paragraph (b)(3) 
through (7) of this section. However, pursuant to section 988(b)(1) and 
(2), the sum of any exchange gain or loss with respect to the principal 
and interest of any such debt instrument shall be realized only to the 
extent of the total gain or loss realized on the transaction. The gain 
or loss realized shall be recognized in accordance with the general 
principles of the Code. See Examples 3, 4 and 6 of paragraph (b)(9) of 
this section.
    (9) Examples. The preceding provisions are illustrated in the 
following examples. The examples assume that any transaction involving 
an individual is a section 988 transaction.

    Example 1. (i) X is an individual on the cash method of accounting 
with the dollar as his functional currency. On January 1, 1992, X 
converts $13,000 to 10,000 British pounds ([pound]) at the spot rate of 
[pound]1 = $1.30 and loans the [pound]10,000 to Y for 3 years. The terms 
of the loan provide that Y will make interest payments of [pound]1,000 
on December 31 of 1992, 1993, and 1994, and will repay X's [pound]10,000 
principal on December 31, 1994. Assume the spot rates for the pertinent 
dates are as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Spot rate
                            Date                              (pounds to
                                                               dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jan. 1, 1992...............................................  [pound]1=$1
                                                                     .30
Dec. 31, 1992..............................................  [pound]1=$1
                                                                     .35
Dec. 31, 1993..............................................  [pound]1=$1
                                                                     .40
Dec. 31, 1994..............................................  [pound]1=$1
                                                                     .45
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (ii) Under paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(B) of this section, X will trans1ate 
the [pound]1,000 interest payments at the spot rate on the date 
received. Accordingly, X will have interest income of $1,350 in 1992, 
$1,400 in 1993, and $1,450 in 1994. Because X is a cash basis taxpayer, 
X does not realize exchange gain or loss on the receipt of interest 
income.
    (iii) Under paragraph (b)(5) of this section, X will realize 
exchange gain upon repayment of the [pound]10,000 principal amount 
determined by translating the [pound]10,000 at the spot rate on the date 
it is received ([pound]10,000x$1.45 = $14,500) and subtracting from such 
amount, the amount determined by translating the [pound]10,000 at the 
spot rate on the date the loan was made ([pound]10,000x$1.30 = $13,000). 
Accordingly, X will realize an exchange gain of $1,500 on the repayment 
of the loan on December 31, 1994.
    Example 2. (i) Assume the same facts as in Example 1 except that X 
is an accrual method taxpayer and that average rates are as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Average rate (pounds to
              Accrual period                          dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1992......................................  [pound]1=$1.32
1993......................................  [pound]1=$1.37
1994......................................  [pound]1=$1.42
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (ii) Under paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(C) of this section, X will accrue 
the [pound]1,000 interest payments at the average rate for the accrual 
period. Accordingly, X will have interest income of $1,320 in 1992, 
$1,370 in 1993, and $1,420 in 1994. Because X is an accrual basis 
taxpayer, X determines exchange gain or loss for each interest accrual 
period by translating the units of nonfunctional currency interest 
income received with respect to such accrual period at the spot rate on 
the date received and subtracting the amounts of interest income accrued 
for such period. Thus, X will realize $90 of exchange gain with respect 
to interest received under the loan, computed as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Spot     Accrued
                                           value     interest    Exch.
                  Year                    interest  @ average     gain
                                          received     rate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1992...................................     $1,350     $1,320        $30
1993...................................      1,400      1,370         30
1994...................................      1,450      1,420         30
                                                              ----------
  Total................................  .........  .........        $90
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (iii) Under paragraph (b)(5) of this section, X will realize 
exchange gain upon repayment

[[Page 594]]

of the [pound]10,000 loan principal determined in the same manner as in 
Example 1. Accordingly, X will realize an exchange gain of $1,500 on the 
repayment of the loan principal on December 31, 1994.
    Example 3. Assume the same facts as in Example 1 except that X is a 
calendar year taxpayer on the accrual method of accounting that elects 
to use a spot rate convention to translate interest income as provided 
in Sec. 1.988-2(b)(2)(iii)(B). Interest income is received by X on the 
last day of each accrual period. Under paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(C), X will 
translate the interest income at the spot rate on the last day of each 
interest accrual period. Accordingly, X will have interest income of 
$1,350 in 1992, and $1,400 in 1993, $1,450 in 1994. Because the rate at 
which the interest income is translated is the same as the rate on the 
day of receipt, X will not realize any exchange gain or loss with 
respect to the interest income. Under paragraph (b)(5) of this section, 
X will realize exchange gain upon repayment of the [pound]10,000 loan 
principal determined in the same manner as in Example 1. Accordingly, X 
will realize an exchange gain of $1,500 on the repayment of the loan 
principal on December 31, 1994.
    Example 4. Assume the same facts as in Example 1 except that on 
December 31, 1993, X sells Y's note for 9,821.13 British pounds 
([pound]) after the interest payment. Under paragraph (b)(8) of this 
section, X will compute exchange gain on the [pound]10,000 principal. 
The exchange gain is $1,000 [([pound]10,000x$1.40)-
([pound]10,000x$1.30)]. This exchange gain, however, is only realized to 
the extent of the total gain on the disposition. X's total gain is 
$749.58 [([pound]9,821.13x$1.40)-([pound]10,000x$1.30)]. Thus, X will 
realize $749.58 of exchange gain (and will realize no market loss).
    Example 5. (i) The facts are the same as in Example 1 except that Y 
becomes insolvent and fails to repay the full [pound]10,000 principal 
when due. Instead, X and Y agree to compromise the debt for a payment of 
[pound]8,000 on December 31, 1994. Under paragraph (b)(8) of this 
section, X will compute exchange gain on the [pound]10,000 originally 
booked. The exchange gain is $1,500 [([pound]10,000x$1.45)-
([pound]10,000x$1.30) = $1,500]. This exchange gain, however, is only 
realized to the extent of the total gain on the disposition. X realizes 
an overall loss on the disposition of $1,400 [([pound]8,000x$1.45)-
([pound]10,000x$1.30) = ($1,400)]. Thus, X will realize no exchange gain 
(and a $1400 market loss).
    (ii) If the exchange rate on December 31, 1994, were [pound]1 = 
$1.25, rather than [pound]1 = $1.45, X would compute exchange loss under 
paragraph (b)(8) of this section, on the [pound]10,000 originally 
booked. The exchange loss would be $500 [([pound]10,000x$1.25)-
([pound]10,000x $1.30) = ($500)]. X's total loss on the disposition 
would be $3,000 [([pound]8,000x$1.25)-([pound]10,000x$1.30) = ($3,000)]. 
Thus, X would realize $500 of exchange loss and a $2,500 market loss on 
the disposition.
    Example 6. (i) X is an individual with the dollar as his functional 
currency. X is on the cash method of accounting. On January 1, 1989, X 
borrows 10,000 British pounds ([pound]) from Y, an unrelated person. The 
terms of the loan provide that X will make interest payments of 
[pound]1,200 on December 31 of 1989 and 1990 and will repay Y's 
[pound]10,000 principal on December 31, 1990. The spot rates for the 
pertinent dates are as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Spot rate
                            Date                                 \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jan. 1, 1989...............................................      1=$1.50
Dec. 31, 1989..............................................       1=1.60
Dec. 31, 1990..............................................       1=1.70
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Pounds to dollars.


Assume that the basis of the [pound]1,200 paid as interest by X on 
December 31, 1989, is $2,000, the basis of the [pound]1,200 paid as 
interest by X on December 31, 1990, is $2,020 and the basis of the 
[pound]10,000 principal paid by X on December 31, 1990, is $16,000.
    (ii) Under paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(B) of this section, X translates the 
[pound]1,200 interest payments at the spot rate on the day paid. Thus, X 
paid $1,920 ([pound]1,200x$1.60) of interest on December 31, 1989, and 
$2,040 ([pound]1,200x$1.70) of interest on December 31, 1990. In 
addition, X will realize exchange gain or loss on the disposition of the 
[pound]1,200 on December 31, 1989 and 1990, under paragraph (a) of this 
section. Pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of this section, X will realize an 
exchange loss of $80 [([pound]1,200x$1.60)-$2,000] on December 31, 1989, 
and exchange gain of $20 [([pound]1,200x$1.70)-$2,020] on December 31, 
1990.
    (iii) Under paragraph (b)(6) of this section, X will realize 
exchange loss on December 31, 1990, upon repayment of the [pound]10,000 
principal amount determined by translating the [pound]10,000 received at 
the spot rate on January 1, 1989 ([pound]10,000x$1.50 = $15,000) and 
subtracting from such amount, the amount determined by translating the 
[pound]10,000 paid at the spot rate on December 31, 1990 
([pound]10,000x$1.70 = $17,000). Thus, under paragraph (b)(6) of this 
section, X has an exchange loss with respect to the [pound]10,000 
principal of $2,000. Further, under paragraph (a)(2) of this section, X 
will realize an exchange gain upon disposition of the [pound]10,000 on 
December 31, 1990. Under paragraph (a)(2) of this section, X will 
subtract his adjusted basis in the [pound]10,000 ($16,000) from the 
amount realized upon the disposition of the [pound]10,000 
([pound]10,000x$1.70 = $17,000) resulting in a gain of $1,000. 
Accordingly, X's combined exchange gain and loss realized on December 
31, 1990, with respect to the repayment of the [pound]10,000 is a $1,000 
exchange loss.
    Example 7. (i) X is a calendar year corporation on the accrual 
method of accounting

[[Page 595]]

and with the dollar as its functional currency. On January 1, 1989, X 
purchases at original issue for 82.64 Canadian dollars (C$) M 
corporation's 2 year note maturing on December 31, 1990, at a stated 
redemption price of C$100. The yield to maturity in Canadian dollars is 
10 percent and the accrual period is the one year period beginning 
January 1 and ending December 31. The note has C$17.36 of original issue 
discount. Assume that the spot rates are as follows: C$1 = U.S.$.72 on 
January 1, 1989; C$1 = U.S.$.80 on January 1, 1990; C$1 = U.S.$ .82 on 
December 31, 1990. Assume further that the average rate for 1989 is C$1 
= U.S.$ .76 and for 1990 is C$1 = U.S. $.81.
    (ii) Under paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(A) of this section, X will determine 
its interest income in Canadian dollars. Accordingly, under section 
1272, X must take into account original issue discount in the amount of 
C$8.26 on December 31, 1989, and C$9.10 on December 31, 1990. Pursuant 
to paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(C) of this section, X will translate these 
amounts into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rate for the relevant 
accrual period. Thus, the amount of interest income taken into account 
in 1989 is U.S.$6.28 (C$8.26xU.S.$.76) and in 1990 is U.S.$7.37 
(C$9.10xU.S.$.81). Pursuant to paragraph (b)(3)(ii) of this section, X 
will realize exchange gain or loss with respect to the accrued interest 
determined for each accrual period by translating the Canadian dollars 
received with respect to such accrual period into U.S. dollars at the 
spot rate on the date the interest is received and subtracting from that 
amount the amount accrued in U.S. dollars. Thus, the amount of exchange 
gain realized on December 31, 1990, is U.S.$.58 (U.S.$.49 from 
1989+U.S.$.09 from 1990). Pursuant to paragraph (b)(5) of this section, 
X shall realize exchange gain or loss with respect to the principal 
(C$82.64) on December 31, 1990, computed by translating the C$82.64 at 
the spot rate on December 31, 1990 (U.S.$67.76) and subtracting the 
C$82.64 translated at the spot rate on January 1, 1989 (U.S.$59.50) for 
an exchange gain of U.S.$8.26. Thus, X's combined exchange gain is 
U.S.$8.84 (U.S.$.49+U.S.$.09+U.S.$8.26).
    (iii) Assume instead that on January 1, 1990, X sells the note for 
C$86.95, which it immediately converts to U.S. dollars. X's exchange 
gain is computed under paragraph (b)(8) of this section with reference 
to the nonfunctional currency denominated principal amount (C$82.64) and 
the nonfunctional currency denominated accrued original issue discount 
(C$8.26). X will compute an exchange gain of U.S.$6.61 with respect to 
the issue price [(C$82.64xU.S. $ .80)-(C$82.64xU.S.$.72)] and an 
exchange gain of U.S.$.33 with respect to the accrued original issue 
discount [(C$8.26xU.S.$.80)- (C$8.26xU.S.$ .76)]. Accordingly, prior to 
the application of paragraph (b)(8) of this section, X's total exchange 
gain is U.S.$6.94 (U.S.$6.61+U.S.$.33), and X's market loss is U.S.$3.16 
[(C$90.90-C$86.95)xU.S.$.80]. Pursuant to paragraph (b)(8) of this 
section, however, X's market loss on the note of U.S.$3.16 is netted 
against X's exchange gain of U.S.$6.94, resulting in a realized exchange 
gain of U.S.$3.78 and no market loss.
    Example 8. (i) The facts are the same as in Example 7 (i) except 
that on January 1, 1990, X contributes the M corporation note to Y, a 
wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary of X with the dollar as its functional 
currency, and Y collects C$100 from M corporation at maturity on 
December 31, 1990, when the spot rate is C$1 = U.S.$.82. The transfer of 
the note from X to Y qualifies for nonrecognition of gain under section 
351(a). On December 31, 1990, Y includes C$9.10 of accrued interest in 
income which translated at the average exchange rate of C$1 = U.S.$.81 
for the year results in U.S.$7.37 of interest income.
    (ii) Y's exchange gain is computed under paragraph (b)(3) of this 
section with respect to accrued interest income and paragraph (b)(5) of 
this section with respect to the nonfunctional currency principal 
amount. Under paragraph (b)(3) of this section, Y will realize exchange 
gain or loss for each accrual period computed by translating the units 
of nonfunctional currency interest income received with respect to such 
accrual period at the spot rate on the day received and subtracting the 
amounts of interest income accrued for such period. Thus, Y will realize 
$.49 of exchange gain with respect to original issue discount accrued in 
1989 [(C$8.26xU.S.$.82)-(C$8.26xU.S.$.76) = U.S. $.49] and $.09 of 
exchange gain with respect to original issue discount accrued in 1990 
[(C$9.10xU.S.$.82)-(C$9.10xU.S.$.81) = $.09].
    (iii) Pursuant to paragraph (b)(5) of this section, the 
nonfunctional currency principal amount of the M bond in the hands of Y 
is C$82.64, the amount carried over from X, the transferor. Y's exchange 
gain with respect to the nonfunctional currency principal amount is 
$8.26 [(C$82.64xU.S.$.82)- (C$82.64xU.S.$.72) = U.S. $8.26]. 
Accordingly, Y's combined exchange gain is U.S. $8.84 ($.49+$.09+$8.26). 
Because the amount realized in Canadian dollars equals the adjusted 
issue price (C$100) on retirement of the M note, there is no market 
loss, and the netting rule of paragraph (b)(8) of this section does not 
limit realization of the exchange gain.
    Example 9. (i) X is a calendar year corporation on the accrual 
method of accounting and with the dollar as its functional currency. X 
elects to use the spot rate convention to translate interest income as 
provided in paragraph (b)(2)(iii)(B) of this section. On January 31, 
1992, X loans [pound]1000 to Y, an unrelated person. Under the terms of 
the loan, Y will pay X interest of [pound]50 on July 31, 1992, and 
January 31, 1993, and will repay the [pound]1000 principal on January 
31, 1993. Assume the following spot exchange rates:

[[Page 596]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Spot rate
                            Date                                 \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jan. 31, 1992..............................................  [pound]1=$1
                                                                     .50
July 31, 1992..............................................  [pound]1=1.
                                                                      55
Dec. 31, 1992..............................................  [pound]1=1.
                                                                      60
Jan. 31, 1993..............................................  [pound]1=1.
                                                                      61
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Pounds to dollars.

    (ii) Under paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(C) of this section, X will translate 
the interest income at the spot rate on the last day of each interest 
accrual period (and in the case of a partial accrual period, at the spot 
rate on the last day of the taxable year). Accordingly, X will have 
interest income of $77.50 ([pound]50x$1.55) on July 31, 1992. Assuming 
under X's method of accounting that interest is accrued daily, X will 
accrue $66.50 (153/184x[pound]50)x$1.60) of interest income on December 
31, 1992. On January 31, 1993, X will have interest income of $13.60 
((31/184x[pound]50)x$1.61). Because the rate at which the interest 
income is translated is the same as the rate on the day of receipt, X 
will not realize any exchange gain or loss with respect to the interest 
income received on July 31, 1992. However, X will realize exchange gain 
on the [pound]41.50 (153/184x[pound]50) of accrued interest income of 
$.41 [([pound]41.50x$1.61)-([pound]41.50x$1.60) = $.41].
    (iii) Under paragraph (b)(5) of this section, X will realize 
exchange gain upon repayment of the [pound]100 principal amount 
determined by translating the [pound]100 at the spot rate on the date it 
is received ([pound]100x$1.61 = $161.00) and subtracting from such 
amount, the amount determined by translating the [pound]100 at the spot 
rate on the date the loan was made ([pound]100x$1.50 = $150.00). 
Accordingly, X will realize an exchange gain of $11 on the repayment of 
the loan on January 31, 1993.
    Example 10. (i) X, a cash basis taxpayer with the dollar as its 
functional currency, has the calendar year as its taxable year. On 
January 1, 1992, X purchases at original issue for 65.88 British pounds 
([pound]) M corporation's 5-year bond maturing on December 31, 1996, 
having a stated redemption price at maturity of [pound]100. The bond 
provides for annual payments of interest in pounds of 1 pound per year 
on December 31 of each year. The bond has 34.12 British pounds of 
original issue discount. The yield to maturity is 10 percent in British 
pounds and the accrual period is the one year period beginning January 1 
and ending December 31 of each calendar year. The amount of original 
issue discount is determined in pounds for each accrual period by 
multiplying the adjusted issue price expressed in pounds by the yield 
and subtracting from such amount the periodic interest payments 
expressed in pounds for such period. The periodic interest payments are 
translated at the spot rate on the payment date (December 31 of each 
year). The original issue discount is translated at the average rate for 
the accrual period (January 1 through December 31). The following chart 
describes the determination of interest income with respect to the facts 
presented and provides other pertinent information.

[[Page 597]]



                                                                         Table 1
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                     Original
                                                                                                        Periodic      issue
                                                                                                        interest   discount in
                                                                                           Assumed    payments in     pounds       Total
                                       Periodic     Original                  Assumed      average       pounds     multiplied    interest
                                       interest      issue     Issue price   spot rate     rate for    multiplied     by the     income in     Adjusted
           Year (Dec. 31)            payments in  discount in  or adjusted   on Dec. 31    accrual      by spot      average      dollars    issue price
                                      pounds for   pounds for  issue price   (pounds to     period    rate on the    rate for    (column 7    in dollars
                                     the accrual  the accrual   in pounds     dollars)    (pounds to    date of    the accrual  plus column
                                        period       period                                dollars)     payment       period         8)
                                                                                                       (column 2    (column 3
                                                                                                         times        times
                                                                                                       column 5)    column 6)
1                                              2            3            4            5            6            7            8            9           10
------------------------------------
Issue Date:
                                     ...........  ...........        65.88      1=$1.20  ...........  ...........  ...........  ...........       $79.06
1992                                           1         5.59        71.47       1=1.30      1=$1.25        $1.30        $6.99        $8.29        86.05
1993                                           1         6.15        77.62       1=1.40       1=1.35         1.40         8.30         9.70        94.35
1994                                           1         6.76        84.38       1=1.50       1=1.45         1.50         9.80        11.30       104.15
1995                                           1         7.44        91.82       1=1.60       1=1.55         1.60        11.53        13.13       115.68
1996                                           1         8.18       100.00       1=1.70       1=1.65         1.70        13.50        15.20       129.18
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 598]]

    (ii) Because X is a cash basis taxpayer, X does not realize exchange 
gain or loss on the receipt of the [pound]1 periodic interest payments. 
However, X will realize exchange gain on December 31, 1996 totaling 
$7.88 with respect to the original issue discount. Exchange gain is 
determined for each interest accrual period by translating the units of 
nonfunctional currency interest income received with respect to such 
accrual period at the spot rate on the date received and subtracting 
from such amount, the amount computed by translating the units of 
nonfunctional currency interest income accrued for such period at the 
average rate for the period. The following chart illustrates this 
computation:

                                                     Table 2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                           IOD in
                                                                Interest                   pounds
                                                   Assumed      received     Assumed     times the
                                    OID accrued   spot rate    times spot    average      average      Exchange
                                     in pounds     on date    rate on the    rate for     rate for     gain or
               Year                   for each     payment        date       accrual    the accrual   loss (col.
                                      accrual      received     received      period       period    4 less col.
                                       period     (pounds to    (col. 2     (pounds to    (col. 2         6)
                                                   dollars)    times col.    dollars)    times col.
                                                                   3)                        5)
1                                             2            3            4            5            6            7
-----------------------------------
1992..............................         5.59      1=$1.70        $9.50      1=$1.25        $6.99        $2.51
1993..............................         6.15       1=1.70        10.46       1=1.35         8.30         2.16
1994..............................         6.76       1=1.70        11.49       1=1.45         9.80         1.69
1995..............................         7.44       1=1.70        12.65       1=1.55        11.53         1.12
1996..............................         8.18       1=1.70        13.90       1=1.65        13.50          .40
                                                                                                    ------------
  Total...........................  ...........  ...........  ...........  ...........  ...........        $7.88
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (iii) X will also realize exchange gain with respect to the 
principal of the loan (i.e., the issue price of 65.88 British pounds) on 
December 31, 1996 computed by translating the units of nonfunctional 
currency principal received at the spot rate on the date principal is 
received (65.88 British pounds x $1.70 = $112.00) and subtracting from 
such amount, the units of nonfunctional currency principal received 
translated at the spot rate on the date the instrument was acquired 
(65.88 British pounds x $1.20 = $79.06). Accordingly, X's exchange gain 
on the principal is $32.94 and X's total exchange gain with respect to 
the accrued interest and principal is $40.82. It should be noted that, 
under this fact pattern, the total exchange gain may be determined in an 
alternative fashion. Exchange gain may be computed by subtracting the 
adjusted issue price in dollars at maturity ($129.18--see column 10 of 
Table 1) from the amount computed by multiplying the stated redemption 
price at maturity in pounds times the spot rate on the maturity date 
([pound]100x$1.70 = $170), which equals $40.82.
    Example 11. (i) The facts are the same as in Example 10 except that 
X makes an election under paragraph (b)(2)(iii) of this section to 
translate accrued interest on the last day of the accrual period. 
Accordingly, columns 8, 9 and 10 in Table 1 would change as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     Original
                                      issue
                                   discount in     Total
                                      pounds      interest
                                    multiplied   income in     Adjusted
          Year (Dec. 31)           by the spot    dollars    issue price
                                     rate on     (column 7    in dollars
                                   last day of  plus column
                                     accrual         8)
                                      period
                                    (Dec. 31)
1                                            8            9           10
----------------------------------
                                                                  $79.06
1992.............................        $7.27        $8.57        87.63
1993.............................         8.61        10.01        97.64
1994.............................        10.14        11.64       109.28
1995.............................        11.90        13.50       122.78
1996.............................        13.91        15.61       138.39
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (ii) Because X is a cash basis taxpayer, X does not realize exchange 
gain or loss on the receipt of the [pound]1 periodic interest payments. 
However, X will realize exchange gain on December 31, 1993 totaling 
$6.18 with respect to the original issue discount. Exchange gain is 
determined for each interest accrual period by translating the units of 
nonfunctional currency interest income received with respect to such 
accrual period at the spot rate on the date received and subtracting 
from such amount, the amount computed by translating the units of 
nonfunctional currency interest income accrued for such period at the 
spot rate on the last day of the accrual period. Accordingly, columns 5, 
6 and 7 of Table 2 would change as follows:

[[Page 599]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   OID in
                                                   pounds
                                                 times the
                                    Spot rate    spot rate     Exchange
                                   on last day  on the last    gain or
               Year                 of accrual   day of the   loss (col.
                                      period      accrual    4 less col.
                                                period (col       6)
                                                  2 times
                                                  col. 3)
1                                            5            6            7
----------------------------------
1992.............................        $1.30        $7.27        $2.23
1993.............................         1.40         8.61         1.85
1994.............................         1.50        10.14         1.35
1995.............................         1.60        11.90         0.75
1996.............................         1.70        13.90         0.00
                                                            ------------
                                                                    6.18
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (iii) X will realize exchange gain with respect to the principal 
amount of the loan as provided in the preceding example.
    Example 12. (i) C is a corporation that is a calendar year accrual 
method taxpayer with the dollar as its functional currency. On January 
1, 1989, C lends 100 British pounds ([pound]) in exchange for a note 
under the terms of which C will receive two equal payments of 
[pound]57.62 on December 31, 1989, and December 31, 1990. Each payment 
of [pound]57.62 represents the annual payment necessary to amortize the 
[pound]100 principal amount at a rate of 10% compounded annually over a 
two year period. The following tables reflect the amounts of principal 
and interest that compose each payment and assumptions as to the 
relevant exchange rates:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Date                        Principal     Interest
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dec. 31, 1989.................................  [pound]47.6  [pound]10.0
                                                          2            0
Dec. 12, 1990.................................  [pound]52.3  [pound]5.24
                                                          8
------------------------------------------------------------------------


------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Average
                     Date                        Spot rate     rate for
                                                 [pound]1=   year ending
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jan. 1, 1989..................................        $1.30
Dec. 31, 1989.................................         1.40         1.35
Dec. 31, 1990.................................         1.50         1.45
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (ii) Because each interest payment is equal to the product of the 
outstanding principal balance of the obligation and a single fixed rate 
of interest, each stated interest payment constitutes periodic interest 
under the principles of section 1273. Accordingly, there is no original 
issue discount.
    (iii) Because C is an accrual basis taxpayer, C will translate the 
interest income at the average rate for the annual accrual period 
pursuant to paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(C) of this section. Thus, C's interest 
income is $13.50 ([pound]10.00x$1.35) in 1989, and $7.60 
([pound]5.24x$1.45) in 1990. C will realize exchange gain or loss upon 
receipt of accrued interest computed in accordance with paragraph (b)(3) 
of this section. Thus, C will realize exchange gain in the amount of 
$.50 [([pound]10.00x$1.40)-$13.50] in 1989, and $.26 
[([pound]5.24x$1.50)-$7.60] in 1990.
    (iv) In addition, C will realize exchange gain or loss upon the 
receipt of principal each year computed under paragraph (b)(5) of this 
section. Thus, C will realize exchange gain in the amount of $4.76 
[([pound]47.62x$1.40)-([pound]47.62x$1.30)] in 1989, and $10.48 
[([pound]52.38x$1.50)-([pound]52.38x$1.30)] in 1990.

    (10) Treatment of bond premium--(i) In general. Amortizable bond 
premium on a bond described in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section shall 
be computed in the units of nonfunctional currency in which the bond is 
denominated (or in which the payments are determined). Amortizable bond 
premium properly taken into account under section 171 or Sec. 1.61-12 
(or the successor provision thereof) shall reduce interest income or 
expense in units of nonfunctional currency. Exchange gain or loss is 
realized with respect to bond premium described in the preceding 
sentence by treating the portion of premium amortized with respect to 
any period as a return of principal. With respect to a holder that does 
not elect to amortize bond premium under section 171, the amount of bond 
premium will constitute a market loss when the bond matures. See 
paragraph (b)(8) of this section. The principles set forth in this 
paragraph (b)(10) shall apply to determine the treatment of acquisition 
premium described in section 1272(a)(7).
    (ii) Example. The following example illustrates the provisions of 
this paragraph (b)(10).

    Example. (A) X is an individual on the cash method of accounting 
with the dollar as his functional currency. On January 1, 1989, X 
purchases Y corporation's note for 107.99 British pounds ([pound]) from 
Z, an unrelated party. The note has an issue price of [pound]100, a 
stated redemption price at maturity of [pound]100, pays interest in 
pounds at the rate of 10% compounded annually, and matures on December 
31, 1993. X elects to amortize the bond premium of [pound]7.99 under the 
rules of section 171. Pursuant to paragraph (b)(10)(i) of this section, 
bond premium is determined and amortized in British pounds. Assume the 
amortization schedule is as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                Unamortized
                                       Bond       premium
        Year ending 12/31            premium        plus       Interest
                                    amortized    principal
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                [pound]107.
                                                         99
1989.............................  [pound]1.36  [pound]106.  [pound]8.64
                                                         63
1990.............................  [pound]1.47  [pound]105.  [pound]8.53
                                                         16
1991.............................  [pound]1.59  [pound]103.  [pound]8.41
                                                         57
1992.............................  [pound]1.71  [pound]101.  [pound]8.29
                                                         86

[[Page 600]]


1993.............................  [pound]1.85  [pound]100.  [pound]8.15
                                                         00
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (B) The bond premium reduces X's pound interest income under the 
note. For example, the [pound]10 stated interest payment made in 1989 is 
reduced by [pound]1.36 of bond premium, and the resulting [pound]8.64 
interest income is translated into dollars at the spot rate on December 
31, 1989. Exchange gain or loss is realized on the [pound]1.36 bond 
premium based on the difference between the spot rates on January 1, 
1989, the date the premium is paid to acquire the bond, and December 31, 
1989, the date the bond premium is returned as part of the stated 
interest. The [pound]1.36 bond premium reduces the unamortized premium 
plus principal to [pound]106.63 ([pound]107.99-[pound]1.36). On December 
31, 1993, when the bond matures and the [pound]7.99 of bond premium has 
been fully amortized, X will realize exchange gain or loss with respect 
to the remaining purchase price of [pound]100.

    (11) Market discount--(i) In general. Market discount as defined in 
section 1278(a)(2) shall be determined in units of nonfunctional 
currency in which the market discount bond is denominated (or in which 
the payments are determined). Accrued market discount (other than market 
discount currently included in income pursuant to section 1278(b)) shall 
be translated into functional currency at the spot rate on the date the 
market discount bond is disposed of. No part of such accrued market 
discount is treated as exchange gain or loss. Accrued market discount 
currently includible in income pursuant to section 1278(b) shall be 
translated into functional currency at the average exchange rate for the 
accrual period. Exchange gain or loss with respect to accrued market 
discount currently includible in income under section 1278(b) shall be 
determined in accordance with paragraph (b)(3) of this section relating 
to accrued interest income.
    (ii) Example. The following example illustrates the provisions of 
this paragraph (b)(11).

    Example. (A) X is a calendar year corporation with the U.S. dollar 
as its functional currency. On January 1, 1990, X purchases a bond of M 
corporation for 96,530 British pounds ([pound]). The bond, which was 
issued on January 1, 1989, has an issue price of [pound]100,000, a 
stated redemption price at maturity of [pound]100,000, and provides for 
annual pound payments of interest at 8 percent. The bond matures on 
December 31, 1991. X purchased the bond at a market discount of 3,470 
pounds and did not elect to include the market discount currently in 
income under section 1278(b). X holds the bond to maturity and on 
December 31, 1991, receives payment of [pound]100,000 (plus [pound]8,000 
interest) when the exchange rate is [pound]1 = $1.50.
    (B) Pursuant to paragraph (b)(11) of this section, X computes market 
discount in units of nonfunctional currency. Thus, the market discount 
as defined under section 1278(a)(2) is [pound]3,470. Accrued market 
discount (other than market discount currently included in income 
pursuant to section 1278(b)) is translated at the spot rate on the date 
the market discount bond is disposed of. Accordingly, X will translate 
the accrued market discount of [pound]3,470 at the spot rate on December 
31, 1991 ([pound]3,470x$1.50 = $5,205). No exchange gain or loss is 
realized with respect to the [pound]3,470 of accrued market discount. 
See paragraphs (b)(3) and (5) of this section for the realization and 
recognition of exchange gain or loss with respect to accrued interest 
and principal.

    (12) Tax exempt bonds. See Sec. 1.988-3(c)(2), which characterizes 
exchange loss realized with respect to a nonfunctional currency tax 
exempt bond as a reduction of interest income.
    (13) Nonfunctional currency debt exchanged for stock of obligor--(i) 
In general. Notwithstanding any other section of the Code other than 
section 267, 1091 or 1092, exchange gain or loss shall be realized and 
recognized by the holder and the obligor in accordance with the rules of 
paragraphs (b)(3) through (7) of this section with respect to the 
principal and accrued interest of a debt instrument described in 
paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section that is acquired by the obligor in 
exchange for its stock, provided however, that such gain or loss shall 
be recognized only to the extent of the total gain or loss on the 
exchange (regardless of whether such gain or loss would otherwise be 
recognized). This rule shall apply whether the debt instrument is 
converted into stock according to its terms or exchanged pursuant to a 
separate agreement between the obligor and the holder. A debt instrument 
that is acquired by the obligor from a shareholder as a contribution to 
capital shall be treated for purposes of this section as exchanged for 
stock, whether or not additional stock is issued.

[[Page 601]]

    (ii) Coordination with section 108. Section 988 and this section 
shall apply before section 108. Exchange gain realized by the obligor on 
an exchange described in paragraph (b)(13)(i) of this section shall not 
be treated as discharge of indebtedness income, but shall be considered 
to reduce the amount of the liability for purposes of computing the 
obligor's income on the exchange under section 108(e)(4), section 
108(e)(6) or section 108(e)(10).
    (iii) Effective date. This paragraph (b)(13) shall be effective for 
exchanges of debt for stock effected after September 21, 1989.
    (iv) Examples. The following examples illustrate the operation of 
this paragraph (b)(13). In each such example, assume that sections 267, 
1091 and 1092 do not apply.

    Example 1. (i) X is a calendar year U.S. corporation with the U.S. 
dollar as its functional currency. On January 1, 1990 (the issue date), 
X acquired a convertible bond maturing on December 31, 1998, issued by Y 
corporation, a U.K. corporation with the British pound ([pound]) as its 
functional currency. The issue price of the bond is [pound]100,000, the 
stated redemption price at maturity is [pound]100,000, and the bond 
provides for annual pound interest payments at the rate of 10%. The 
terms of the bond also provide that at any time prior to December 31, 
1998, the holder may surrender all of his interest in the bond in 
exchange for 20 shares of Y common stock. On January 1, 1994, X 
surrenders his interest in the bond for 20 shares of Y common stock. 
Assume the following: (a) The spot rate on January 1, 1990, is [pound]1 
= $1.30, (b) The spot rate on January 1, 1994, is [pound]1 = $1.50, and 
(c) The 20 shares of Y common stock have a market value of 
[pound]200,000 on January 1, 1994.
    (ii) Pursuant to paragraph (b)(13) of this section, X will realize 
and recognize exchange gain with respect to the issue price 
([pound]100,000) of the bond on January 1, 1994, when the bond is 
converted to stock. X will compute exchange gain pursuant to paragraph 
(b)(5) of this section by translating the issue price at the spot rate 
on the conversion date ([pound]100.000x$1.50 = $150,000) and subtracting 
from such amount the issue price translated at the spot rate on the date 
X acquired the bond ([pound]100,000x$1.30 = $130,000). Thus, X will 
realize and recognize $20,000 of exchange gain. X's basis in the 20 
shares of Y common stock is $150,000 ($130,000 substituted basis + 
$20,000 recognized gain).
    Example 2. (i) X, a foreign corporation with the British pound 
([pound]) as its functional currency, lends [pound]100 at a market rate 
of interest to Y, its wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary, on January 1, 1990, 
on which date the spot exchange rate is [pound]1 = $1. Y's functional 
currency is the U.S. dollar. On January 1, 1992, when the spot exchange 
rate is [pound]1 = $.50, X cancels the debt as a contribution to 
capital. Pursuant to paragraph (b)(13) of this section, Y will realize 
and recognize exchange gain with respect to the [pound]100 issue price 
of the debt instrument on January 1, 1992. Y will compute exchange gain 
pursuant to paragraph (b)(6) of this section by translating the issue 
price at the spot rate on the date Y became the obligor ([pound]100x$1 = 
$100) and subtracting from such amount the issue price translated at the 
spot rate on the date of extinguishment ([pound]100x$.50 = $50). Thus, Y 
will realize and recognize $50 of exchange gain.
    (ii) Under section 108(e)(6), on the acquisition of its indebtedness 
from X as a contribution to capital Y is treated as having satisfied the 
debt with an amount of money equal to X's adjusted basis in the debt 
([pound]100). For purposes of section 108(e)(6), X's adjusted basis is 
translated into United States dollars at the spot rate on the date Y 
acquires the debt ([pound]1 = $.50). Therefore, Y is treated as having 
satisfied the debt for $50. Pursuant to paragraph (b)(13) of this 
section, for purposes of section 108 the amount of the indebtedness is 
considered to be reduced by the exchange gain from $100 to $50. 
Accordingly, Y recognizes $50 of exchange gain and no discharge of 
indebtedness income on the extinguishment of its debt to X.
    (iii) If X were a United States taxpayer with a dollar functional 
currency and a $100 basis in Y's obligation. X would realize and 
recognize an exchange loss of $50 under paragraph (b)(5) of this section 
on the contribution of the debt to Y. The recognized loss would reduce 
X's adjusted basis in the debt from $100 to $50, so that for purposes of 
applying section 108(e)(6) Y is treated as having satisfied the debt for 
$50. Accordingly, under these facts as well Y would recognize $50 of 
exchange gain and no discharge of indebtedness income.
    Example 3. (i) X and Y are unrelated calendar year U.S. corporations 
with the U.S. dollar as their functional currency. On January 1, 1990 
(the issue date), X acquires Y's bond maturing on December 31, 1999. The 
issue price of the bond is [pound]100,000, the stated redemption price 
at maturity is [pound]100,000, and the bond provides for annual pound 
interest payments at the rate of 10%. On January 1, 1994, X and Y agree 
that Y will redeem its bond from X in exchange for 20 shares of Y common 
stock. Assume the following:
    (a) The spot rate on January 1, 1990, is [pound]1 = $1.00,
    (b) The spot rate on January 1, 1994, is [pound]1 = $.50,
    (c) Interest rates on equivalent bonds have increased so that as of 
January 1, 1994, the value of Y's bond has declined to [pound]90,000, 
and

[[Page 602]]

    (d) The 20 shares of Y common stock have a market value of 
[pound]90,000 as of January 1, 1994.
    (ii) Pursuant to paragraph (b)(13) of this section, X will realize 
and recognize exchange loss with respect to the issue price 
([pound]100,000) of the bond on January 1, 1994, when the bond is 
exchanged for stock. X will compute exchange loss pursuant to paragraph 
(b)(5) of this section by translating the issue price at the spot rate 
on the exchange date ([pound]100,000x$.50 = $50,000) and subtracting 
from such amount the issue price translated at the spot rate on the date 
X acquired the bond ([pound]100,000x$1.00 = $100,000). Thus, X will 
compute $50,000 of exchange loss, all of which will be realized and 
recognized because it does not exceed the total $55,000 realized loss on 
the exchange ($45,000 worth of stock received less $100,000 basis in the 
exchanged bond).
    (iii) Pursuant to paragraph (b)(13) of this section, Y will realize 
and recognize exchange gain with respect to the issue price, computed 
under paragraph (b)(6) of this section by translating the issue price at 
the spot rate on the date Y became the obligor ([pound]100,000x$1.00 = 
$100,000) and subtracting from such amount the issue price translated at 
the spot rate on the exchange date ([pound]100,000x$.50 = $50,000). 
Thus, Y will realize and recognize $50,000 of exchange gain. Under 
section 108(e)(10), on the transfer of stock to X in satisfaction of its 
indebtedness Y is treated as having satisfied the indebtedness with an 
amount of money equal to the fair market value of the stock 
([pound]90,000x$.50 = $45,000). Pursuant to paragraph (b)(13) of this 
section, for purposes of section 108 the amount of the indebtedness is 
considered to be reduced by the recognized exchange gain from $100,000 
to $50,000. Accordingly, Y recognizes an additional $5,000 of discharge 
of indebtedness income on the exchange.
    Example 4. (i) The facts are the same as in Example 3 except that 
interest rates on equivalent bonds have declined, rather than increased, 
so that the value of Y's bond on January 1, 1994, has risen to 
[pound]112,500; and X and Y agree that Y will redeem its bond from X on 
that date in exchange for 25 shares of Y common stock worth 
[pound]112,500. Pursuant to paragraphs (b)(13) and (b)(5) of this 
section, X will compute $50,000 of exchange loss on the exchange with 
respect to the [pound]100,000 issue price of the bond. See Example 3. 
However, because X's total loss on the exchange is only $43,750 ($56,250 
worth of stock received less $100,000 basis in the exchanged bond), 
under the netting rule of paragraph (b)(13) of this section the realized 
exchange loss is limited to $43,750.
    (ii) Pursuant to paragraphs (b)(13) and (b)(6) of this section, Y 
will compute $50,000 of exchange gain with respect to the issue price. 
See Example 3. Under section 108(e)(10), Y is treated as having 
satisfied the $100,000 indebtedness with an amount of money equal to the 
fair market value of the stock ([pound]112,500x$.50 = $56,250), 
resulting in a total gain on the exchange of $43,750. Accordingly, under 
paragraph (b)(13) of this section Y's realized (and recognized) exchange 
gain on the exchange is limited to $43,750. Also pursuant to paragraph 
(b)(13) of this section, for purposes of section 108 the amount of the 
indebtedness is considered to be reduced by the recognized exchange gain 
from $100,000 to $56,250. Accordingly, Y recognizes no discharge of 
indebtedness income on the exchange.

    (14) [Reserved]
    (15) Debt instruments and deposits denominated in hyperinflationary 
currencies--(i) In general. If a taxpayer issues, acquires, or otherwise 
enters into or holds a hyperinflationary debt instrument (as defined in 
paragraph (b)(15)(vi)(A) of this section) or a hyperinflationary deposit 
(as defined in paragraph (b)(15)(vi)(B) of this section) on which 
interest is paid or accrued that is denominated in (or determined by 
reference to) a nonfunctional currency of the taxpayer, then the 
taxpayer shall realize exchange gain or loss with respect to such 
instrument or deposit for its taxable year determined by reference to 
the change in exchange rates between--
    (A) The later of the first day of the taxable year, or the date the 
instrument was entered into (or an amount deposited); and
    (B) The earlier of the last day of the taxable year, or the date the 
instrument (or deposit) is disposed of or otherwise terminated.
    (ii) Only exchange gain or loss is realized. No gain or loss is 
realized under paragraph (b)(15)(i) by reason of factors other than 
movement in exchange rates, such as the creditworthiness of the debtor.
    (iii) Special rule for synthetic, non-hyperinflationary currency 
debt instruments--(A) General rule. Paragraph (b)(15)(i) does not apply 
to a debt instrument that has interest and principal payments that are 
to be made by reference to a currency or item that does not reflect 
hyperinflationary conditions in a country (within the meaning of Sec. 
1.988-1(f)).
    (B) Example. Paragraph (b)(15)(iii)(A) is illustrated by the 
following example:


[[Page 603]]


    Example. When the Turkish lira (TL) is a hyperinflationary currency, 
A, a U.S. corporation with the U.S. dollar as its functional currency, 
makes a 5 year, 100,000 TL-denominated loan to B, an unrelated 
corporation, at a 10% interest rate when 1,000 TL equals $1. Under the 
terms of the debt instrument, B must pay interest annually to A in 
amount of Turkish lira that is equal to $100. Also under the terms of 
the debt instrument, B must pay A upon maturity of the debt instrument 
an amount of Turkish lira that is equal to $1,000. Although the 
principal and interest are payable in a hyperinflationary currency, the 
debt instrument is a synthetic dollar debt instrument and is not subject 
to paragraph (b)(15)(i) of this section.

    (iv) Source and character of gain or loss--(A) General rule for 
hyperinflationary conditions. The rules of this paragraph (b)(15)(iv)(A) 
shall apply to any taxpayer that is either an issuer of (or obligor 
under) a hyperinflationary debt instrument or deposit and has currency 
gain on such debt instrument or deposit, or a holder of a 
hyperinflationary debt instrument or deposit and has currency loss on 
such debt instrument or deposit. For purposes of subtitle A of the 
Internal Revenue Code, any exchange gain or loss realized under 
paragraph (b)(15)(i) of this section is directly allocable to the 
interest expense or interest income, respectively, from the debt 
instrument or deposit (computed under this paragraph (b)), and therefore 
reduces or increases the amount of interest income or interest expense 
paid or accrued during that year with respect to that instrument or 
deposit. With respect to a debt instrument or deposit during a taxable 
year, to the extent exchange gain realized under paragraph (b)(15)(i) of 
this section exceeds interest expense of an issuer, or exchange loss 
realized under paragraph (b)(15)(i) of this section exceeds interest 
income of a holder or depositor, the character and source of such excess 
amount shall be determined under Sec. Sec. 1.988-3 and 1.988-4.
    (B) Special rule for subsiding hyperinflationary conditions. If the 
taxpayer is an issuer of (or obligor under) a hyperinflationary debt 
instrument or deposit and has currency loss, or if the taxpayer is a 
holder of a hyperinflationary debt instrument or deposit and has 
currency gain, then for purposes of subtitle A of the Internal Revenue 
Code, the character and source of the currency gain or loss is 
determined under Sec. Sec. 1.988-3 and 1.988-4. Thus, if an issuer has 
both interest expense and currency loss, the currency loss is sourced 
and characterized under section 988, and does not affect the 
determination of interest expense.
    (v) Adjustment to principal or basis. Any exchange gain or loss 
realized under paragraph (b)(15)(i) of this section is an adjustment to 
the functional currency principal amount of the issuer, functional 
currency basis of the holder, or the functional currency amount of the 
deposit. This adjusted amount or basis is used in making subsequent 
computations of exchange gain or loss, computing the basis of assets for 
purposes of allocating interest under Sec. Sec. 1.861-9T through 1.861-
12T and 1.882-5, or making other determinations that may be relevant for 
computing taxable income or loss.
    (vi) Definitions--(A) Hyperinflationary debt instrument. A 
hyperinflationary debt instrument is a debt instrument that provides 
for--
    (1) Payments denominated in or determined by reference to a currency 
that is hyperinflationary (as defined in Sec. 1.988-1(f)) at the time 
the taxpayer enters into or otherwise acquires the debt instrument; or
    (2) Payments denominated in or determined by reference to a currency 
that is hyperinflationary (as defined in Sec. 1.988-1(f)) during the 
taxable year, and the terms of the instrument provide for the adjustment 
of principal or interest payments in a manner that reflects 
hyperinflation. For example, a debt instrument providing for a variable 
interest rate based on local conditions and generally responding to 
changes in the local consumer price index will reflect hyperinflation.
    (B) Hyperinflationary deposit. A hyperinflationary deposit is a 
demand or time deposit or similar instrument issued by a bank or other 
financial institution that provides for--
    (1) Payments denominated in or determined by reference to a currency 
that is hyperinflationary (as defined in Sec. 1.988-1(f)) at the time 
the taxpayer enters into or otherwise acquires the deposit; or

[[Page 604]]

    (2) Payments denominated in or determined by reference to a currency 
that is hyperinflationary (as defined in Sec. 1.988-1(f)) during the 
taxable year, and the terms of the deposit provide for the adjustment of 
the deposit amount or interest payments in a manner that reflects 
hyperinflation.
    (vii) Interaction with other provisions--(A) Interest allocation 
rules. In determining the amount of interest expense, this paragraph 
(b)(15) applies before Sec. Sec. 1.861-9T through 1.861-12T, and 1.882-
5.
    (B) DASTM. With respect to a qualified business unit that uses the 
United States dollar approximate separate transactions method of 
accounting described in Sec. 1.985-3, paragraph (b)(15)(i) of this 
section does not apply.
    (C) Interaction with section 988(a)(3)(C). Section 988(a)(3)(C) does 
not apply to a debt instrument subject to the rules of paragraph 
(b)(15)(i) of this section.
    (D) Hedging rules. To the extent Sec. 1.446-4 or 1.988-5 apply, the 
rules of paragraph (b)(15)(i) of this section will not apply. This 
paragraph (b)(15)(vii)(D) does not apply if the application of Sec. 
1.988-5 results in hyperinflationary debt instrument or deposit 
described in paragraph (b)(15)(vi)(A) or (B) of this section.
    (viii) Effective date. This paragraph (b)(15) applies to 
transactions entered into after February 14, 2000.
    (16) Coordination with section 267 regarding debt instruments--(i) 
Treatment of a creditor. For rules applicable to a corporation included 
in a controlled group that is a creditor under a debt instrument see 
Sec. 1.267(f)--1(h).
    (ii) Treatment of a debtor. [Reserved]
    (17) Coordination with installment method under section 453. 
[Reserved]
    (c) Item of expense or gross income or receipts which is to be paid 
or received after the date accrued--(1) In general. Except as provided 
in Sec. 1.988-5, exchange gain or loss with respect to an item 
described in Sec. 1.988-1(a)(1)(ii) and (2)(ii) (other than accrued 
interest income or expense subject to paragraph (b) of this section) 
shall be realized on the date payment is made or received. Except as 
provided in the succeeding sentence, such exchange gain or loss shall be 
recognized in accordance with the applicable recognition provisions of 
the Internal Revenue Code. If the taxpayer's right to receive income, or 
obligation to pay an expense, is transferred or modified in a 
transaction in which gain or loss would otherwise be recognized, 
exchange gain or loss shall be realized and recognized only to the 
extent of the total gain or loss on the transaction.
    (2) Determination of exchange gain or loss with respect to an item 
of gross income or receipts. Exchange gain or loss realized on an item 
of gross income or receipts described in paragraph (c)(1) of this 
section shall be determined by multiplying the units of nonfunctional 
currency received by the spot rate on the payment date, and subtracting 
from such amount the amount determined by multiplying the units of 
nonfunctional currency received by the spot rate on the booking date. 
The term ``spot rate on the payment date'' means the spot rate 
determined under Sec. 1.988-1(d) on the date payment is received or 
otherwise taken into account. Pursuant to Sec. 1.988-1(d)(3), a 
taxpayer may use a spot rate convention for purposes of determining the 
spot rate on the payment date. The term ``spot rate on the booking 
date'' means the spot rate determined under Sec. 1.988-1(d) on the date 
the item of gross income or receipts is accrued or otherwise taken into 
account. Pursuant to Sec. 1.988-1(d)(3), a taxpayer may use a spot rate 
convention for purposes of determining the spot rate on the booking 
date.
    (3) Determination of exchange gain or loss with respect to an item 
of expense. Exchange gain or loss realized on an item of expense 
described in paragraph (c)(1) of this section shall be determined by 
multiplying the units of nonfunctional currency paid by the spot rate on 
the booking date and subtracting from such amount the amount determined 
by multiplying the units of nonfunctional currency paid by the spot rate 
on the payment date. The term ``spot rate on the booking date'' means 
the spot rate determined under Sec. 1.988-1(d) on the date the item of 
expense is accrued or otherwise taken into account. Pursuant to Sec. 
1.988-1(d)(3), a taxpayer may use a spot rate convention for purposes of 
determining the spot rate on the booking date. The

[[Page 605]]

term ``spot rate on the payment date'' means the spot rate determined 
under Sec. 1.988-1(d) on the date payment is made or otherwise taken 
into account. Pursuant to Sec. 1.988-1(d)(3), a taxpayer may use a spot 
rate convention for purposes of determining the spot rate on the date.
    (4) Examples. The following examples illustrate the application of 
paragraph (c) of this section.

    Example 1. X is a calendar year corporation with the dollar as its 
functional currency. X is on the accrual method of accounting. On 
January 15, 1989, X sells inventory for 10,000 Canadian dollars (C$). 
The spot rate on January 15, 1989, is C$1 = U.S. $.55. On February 23, 
1989, when X receives payment of the C$10,000, the spot rate is C$1 = 
U.S. $.50. On February 23, 1989, X will realize exchange loss. X's loss 
is computed by multiplying the C$10,000 by the spot rate on the date the 
C$10,000 are received (C$10,000x.50 = U.S. $5,000) and subtracting from 
such amount, the amount computed by multiplying the C$10,000 by the spot 
rate on the booking date (C$10,000x.55 = U.S. $5,500). Thus, X's 
exchange loss on the transaction is U.S. $500 (U.S. $5,000-U.S. $5,500).
    Example 2. The facts are the same as in Example 1 except that X uses 
a spot rate convention to determine the spot rate as provided in Sec. 
1.988-1(d)(3). Pursuant to X's spot rate convention, the spot rate at 
which a payable or receivable is booked is determined monthly for each 
nonfunctional currency payable or receivable by adding the spot rate at 
the beginning of the month and the spot rate at the end of the month and 
dividing by two. All payables and receivables in a nonfunctional 
currency booked during the month are translated into functional currency 
at the rate described in the preceding sentence. Further, the 
translation of nonfunctional currency paid with respect to a payable, 
and nonfunctional currency received with respect to a receivable, is 
also performed pursuant to the spot rate convention. Assume the spot 
rate determined under the spot rate convention for the month of January 
is C$1 = U.S. $.54 and for the month of February is C$1 = U.S. $.51. On 
the last date in February, X will realize exchange loss. X's loss is 
computed by multiplying the C$10,000 by the spot rate convention for the 
month of February (C$10,000xU.S. $.51 = U.S. $5,100) and subtracting 
from such amount, the amount computed by multiplying the C$10,000 by the 
spot rate convention for the month of January (C$10,000xU.S. $.54 = 
$5,400). Thus, X's exchange loss on the transaction is U.S. $300 (U.S. 
$5,100-U.S. $5,400). X's basis in the C$10,000 is U.S. $5,400.
    Example 3. The facts are the same as in Example 2 except that X has 
a standing order with X's bank for the bank to convert any nonfunctional 
currency received in satisfaction of a receivable into U.S. dollars on 
the day received and to deposit those U.S. dollars in X's U.S. dollar 
bank account. X may use its convention to translate the amount booked 
into U.S. dollars, but must use the U.S. dollar amounts received from 
the bank with respect to such receivables to determine X's exchange gain 
or loss. Thus, if X receives payment of the C$10,000 on February 23, 
1989, when the spot rate is C$1 = U.S.$ .50, X determines exchange gain 
or loss by subtracting the amount booked under X's convention 
(U.S.$5,400) from the amount of U.S. dollars received from the bank 
under the standing conversion order (assume $5,000). X's exchange loss 
is U.S.$400.

    (d) Exchange gain or loss with respect to forward contracts, futures 
contracts and option contracts--(1) Scope--(i) In general. This 
paragraph (d) applies to forward contracts, futures contracts and option 
contracts described in Sec. 1.988-1(a)(1)(ii) and (2)(iii). For rules 
applicable to currency swaps and notional principal contracts described 
in Sec. 1.988-1(a) (1)(ii) and (2)(iii), see paragraph (e) of this 
section.
    (ii) Treatment of spot contracts. Solely for purposes of this 
paragraph (d), a spot contract as defined in Sec. 1.988-1(b) to buy or 
sell nonfunctional currency is not considered a forward contract or 
similar transaction described in Sec. 1.988-1(a)(2)(iii) unless such 
spot contract is disposed of (or otherwise terminated) prior to making 
or taking delivery of the currency. For example, if a taxpayer with the 
dollar as its functional currency enters into a spot contract to 
purchase British pounds, and takes delivery of such pounds under the 
contract, the delivery of the pounds is not a realization event under 
section 988(c)(5) and paragraph (e)(4)(ii) of this section because the 
contract is not considered a forward contract or similar transaction 
described in Sec. 1.988-1(a)(2)(iii). However, if the taxpayer sells or 
otherwise terminates the contract before taking delivery of the pounds, 
exchange gain or loss shall be realized and recognized in accordance 
with paragraphs (d)(2) and (3) of this section.
    (2) Realization of exchange gain or loss--(i) In general. Except as 
provided in Sec. 1.988-5, exchange gain or loss on a contract described 
in Sec. 1.988-2(d)(1) shall be realized in accordance with the

[[Page 606]]

applicable realization section of the Internal Revenue Code (e.g., 
sections 1001, 1092, and 1256). See also section 988(c)(5). For purposes 
of determining the timing of the realization of exchange gain or loss, 
sections 1092 and 1256 shall take precedence over section 988(c)(5).
    (ii) Realization by offset--(A) In general. Except as provided in 
paragraphs (d)(2)(ii)(B) and (C) of this section, exchange gain or loss 
with respect to a transaction described in Sec. 1.988-1(a)(1)(ii) and 
(2)(iii) shall not be realized solely because such transaction is offset 
by another transaction (or transactions).
    (B) Exception where economic benefit is derived. If a transaction 
described in Sec. 1.988-1(a)(1)(ii) and (2)(iii) is offset by another 
transaction or transactions, exchange gain shall be realized to the 
extent the taxpayer derives, by pledge or otherwise, an economic benefit 
(e.g., cash, property or the proceeds from a borrowing) from any gain 
inherent in such offsetting positions. Proper adjustment shall be made 
in the amount of any gain or loss subsequently realized for gain taken 
into account by reason of the preceding sentence. This paragraph 
(d)(2)(ii)(B) shall apply to transactions creating an offset after 
September 21, 1989.
    (C) Certain contracts traded on an exchange. If a transaction 
described in Sec. 1.988-1(a)(1)(ii) and (2)(iii) is traded on an 
exchange and it is the general practice of the exchange to terminate 
offsetting contracts, entering into an offsetting contract shall be 
considered a termination of the contract being offset.
    (iii) Clarification of section 988(c)(5). If the delivery date of a 
contract subject to section 988(c)(5) and paragraph (d)(4)(ii) of this 
section is different than the date the contract expires, then for 
purposes of determining the date exchange gain or loss is realized, the 
term delivery date shall mean expiration date.
    (iv) Examples. The following examples illustrate the rules of this 
paragraph (d)(1) and (2).

    Example 1. On August 1, 1989, X, a calendar year corporation with 
the dollar as its functional currency, enters into a forward contract 
with Bank A to buy 100 New Zealand dollars for $80 for delivery on 
January 31, 1990. (The forward purchase contract is not a section 1256 
contract.) On November 1, 1989, the market price for the purchase of 100 
New Zealand dollars for delivery on January 31, 1990, is $76. On 
November 1, 1989, X cancels its obligation under the forward purchase 
contract and pays Bank A $3.95 (the present value of $4 discounted at 
12% for the period) in cancellation of such contract. Under section 1001 
(a), X realizes an exchange loss of $3.95 on November 1, 1989, because 
cancellation of the forward purchase contract for cash results in the 
termination of X's contract.
    Example 2. X is a corporation with the dollar as its functional 
currency. On January 1, 1989, X enters into a currency swap contract 
with Bank A under which X is obligated to make a series of Japanese yen 
payments in exchange for a series of dollar payments. On February 21, 
1992, X has a gain of $100,000 inherent in such contract as a result of 
interest rate and exchange rate movements. Also on February 21, 1992, X 
enters into an offsetting swap with Bank A to lock in such gain. If on 
February 21, 1992, X pledges the gain inherent in such offsetting 
positions as collateral for a loan, X's initial swap contract is treated 
as being terminated on February 21, 1992, under paragraph (d)(2)(ii)(B) 
of this section. Proper adjustment is made in the amount of any gain or 
loss subsequently realized for the gain taken into account by reason of 
paragraph (d)(2)(ii)(B) of this section.
    Example 3. X is a calendar year corporation with the dollar as its 
functional currency. On October 1, 1989, X enters into a forward 
contract to buy 100,000 Swiss francs (Sf) for delivery on March l, 1990, 
for $51,220. Assume that the contract is a section 1256 contract under 
section 1256(g)(2) and that section 1256(e) does not apply. Pursuant to 
section 1256(a)(1), the forward contract is treated as sold for its fair 
market value on December 31, 1989. Assume that the fair market value of 
the contract is $1,000 determined under Sec. 1.988-1(g). Thus X will 
realize an exchange gain of $1,000 on December 31, 1989. Such gain is 
subject to the character rules of Sec. 1.988-3 and the source rules of 
Sec. 1.988-4.

    (v) Extension of the maturity date of certain contracts. An 
extension of time for making or taking delivery under a contract 
described in paragraph (d)(1) of this section (e.g., a historical rate 
rollover as defined in Sec. 1.988-5(b)(2)(iii)(C)) shall be considered 
a sale or exchange of the contract for its fair market value on the date 
of the extension and the establishment of a new contract on such date. 
If, under the terms of the extension, the time value of any gain or loss 
recognized pursuant

[[Page 607]]

to the preceding sentence adjusts the price of the currency to be bought 
or sold under the new contract, the amount attributable to such time 
value shall be treated as interest income or expense for all purposes of 
the Code. However, the preceding sentence shall not apply and the amount 
attributable to the time value of any gain or loss recognized shall be 
treated as exchange gain or loss if the period beginning on the first 
date the contract is rolled over and ending on the date payment is 
ultimately made or received with respect to such contract does not 
exceed 183 days.
    (3) Recognition of exchange gain or loss. Except as provided in 
Sec. 1.988-5 (relating to section 988 hedging transactions), exchange 
gain or loss realized with respect to a contract described in paragraph 
(d)(1) of this section shall be recognized in accordance with the 
applicable recognition provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. For 
example, a loss realized with respect to a contract described in 
paragraph (d)(1) of this section which is part of a straddle shall be 
recognized in accordance with the provisions of section 1092 to the 
extent such section is applicable.
    (4) Determination of exchange gain or loss--(i) In general. Exchange 
gain or loss with respect to a contract described in Sec. 1.988-2(d)(1) 
shall be determined by subtracting the amount paid (or deemed paid), if 
any, for or with respect to the contract (including any amount paid upon 
termination of the contract) from the amount received (or deemed 
received), if any, for or with respect to the contract (including any 
amount received upon termination of the contract). Any gain or loss 
determined according to the preceding sentence shall be treated as 
exchange gain or loss.
    (ii) Special rules where taxpayer makes or takes delivery. If the 
taxpayer makes or takes delivery in connection with a contract described 
in paragraph (d)(1) of this section, any gain or loss shall be realized 
and recognized in the same manner as if the taxpayer sold the contract 
(or paid another person to assume the contract) on the date on which he 
took or made delivery for its fair market value on such date. See 
paragraph (d)(2)(iii) of this section regarding the definition of the 
term ``delivery date.'' This paragraph (d)(4)(ii) shall not apply in any 
case in which the taxpayer makes or takes delivery before June 11, 1987.
    (iii) Examples. The following examples illustrate the application of 
paragraph (d)(4) of this section.

    Example 1. X is a calendar year corporation with the dollar as its 
functional currency. On October 1, 1989, when the six month forward rate 
is $.4907, X enters into a forward contract to buy 100,000 New Zealand 
dollars (NZD) for delivery on March 1, 1990. On March 1, 1990, when X 
takes delivery of the 100,000 NZD, the spot rate is 1NZD equals $.48. 
Pursuant to section 988(c)(5) and paragraph (d)(4)(ii) of this section, 
a taxpayer that takes delivery of nonfunctional currency under a forward 
contract that is subject to section 988 is treated as if the taxpayer 
sold the contract for its fair market value on the date delivery is 
taken. If X sold the contract on March 1, 1990, the transferee would 
require a payment of $1,070 [($.48x100,000NZD)-($.4907x100,000NZD)] to 
compensate him for the loss in value of the 100,000NZD. Therefore, X 
realizes an exchange loss of $1,070. X has a basis in the 100,000NZD of 
$48,000.
    Example 2. Assume the same facts as in Example 1 except that the 
contract is for Swiss francs and is a section 1256 contract. Assume 
further that on December 31, 1989, the value to X of the contract as 
marked to market is $1,000. Pursuant to section 1256(a), X realizes an 
exchange gain of $1,000. Such gain, however, is characterized as 
ordinary income under Sec. 1.988-3 and will be sourced under Sec. 
1.988-4.
    Example 3. X is a calendar year corporation with the dollar as its 
functional currency. On May 2, 1989, X enters into an option contract 
with Bank A to purchase 50,000 Canadian dollars (C$) for U.S. $42,500 
(C$1 = U.S. $.85) for delivery on or before September 18, 1989. X pays a 
$285 premium to Bank A to obtain the option contract. On September 18, 
1989, when X exercises the option and takes delivery of the C$50,000, 
the spot rate is C$1 equals U.S. $.90. Pursuant to section 988(c)(5) and 
paragraph (d)(4)(ii) of this section, a taxpayer that takes delivery 
under an option contract that is subject to section 988 is treated as if 
the taxpayer sold the contract for its fair market value on the date 
delivery is taken. If X sold the contract for its fair market value on 
September 18, 1989, X would receive U.S. $2,500 [(C$50,000xU.S. $.90)-
(C$50,000xU.S. $.85)]. Accordingly, X is deemed to have received U.S. 
$2,500 on the sale of the contract at its fair market value. X will 
realize U.S. $2,215 ($2,500 deemed received less $285 paid) of exchange 
gain with respect to the delivery of Canadian dollars

[[Page 608]]

under the option contract. X's basis in the 50,000 Canadian dollars is 
U.S. $45,000.

    (5) Hyperinflationary contracts--(i) In general. If a taxpayer 
acquires or otherwise enters into a hyperinflationary contract (as 
defined in paragraph (d)(5)(ii) of this section) that has payments to be 
made or received that are denominated in (or determined by reference to) 
a nonfunctional currency of the taxpayer, then the taxpayer shall 
realize exchange gain or loss with respect to such contract for its 
taxable year determined by reference to the change in exchange rates 
between--
    (A) The later of the first day of the taxable year, or the date the 
contract was acquired or entered into; and
    (B) The earlier of the last day of the taxable year, or the date the 
contract is disposed of or otherwise terminated.
    (ii) Definition of hyperinflationary contract. A hyperinflationary 
contract is a contract described in paragraph (d)(1) of this section 
that provides for payments denominated in or determined by reference to 
a currency that is hyperinflationary (as defined in Sec. 1.988-1(f)) at 
the time the taxpayer acquires or otherwise enters into the contract.
    (iii) Interaction with other provisions--(A) DASTM. With respect to 
a qualified business unit that uses the United States dollar approximate 
separate transactions method of accounting described in Sec. 1.985-3, 
this paragraph (d)(5) does not apply.
    (B) Hedging rules. To the extent Sec. 1.446-4 or 1.988-5 apply, 
this paragraph (d)(5) does not apply.
    (C) Adjustment for subsequent transactions. Proper adjustments must 
be made in the amount of any gain or loss subsequently realized for gain 
or loss taken into account by reason of this paragraph (d)(5).
    (iv) Effective date. This paragraph (d) (5) is applicable to 
transactions acquired or otherwise entered into after February 14, 2000.
    (e) Currency swaps and other notional principal contracts--(1) In 
general. Except as provided in paragraph (e)(2) of this section or in 
Sec. 1.988-5, the timing of income, deduction and loss with respect to 
a notional principal contract that is a section 988 transaction shall be 
governed by section 446 and the regulations thereunder. Such income, 
deduction and loss is characterized as exchange gain or loss (except as 
provided in another section of the Internal Revenue Code (or regulations 
thereunder), Sec. 1.988-5, or in paragraph (f) of this section).
    (2) Special rules for currency swaps--(i) In general. Except as 
provided in paragraph (e)(2)(iii)(B) of this section, the provisions of 
this paragraph (e)(2) shall apply solely for purposes of determining the 
realization, recognition and amount of exchange gain or loss with 
respect to a currency swap contract, and not for purposes of determining 
the source of such gain or loss, or characterizing such gain or loss as 
interest. Except as provided in Sec. 1.988-3(c), any income or loss 
realized with respect to a currency swap contract shall be characterized 
as exchange gain or loss (and not as interest income or expense). Any 
exchange gain or loss realized in accordance with this paragraph (e)(2) 
shall be recognized unless otherwise provided in an applicable section 
of the Code. For purposes of this paragraph (e)(2), a currency swap 
contract is a contract defined in paragraph (e)(2)(ii) of this section. 
With respect to a contract which requires the payment of swap principal 
prior to maturity of such contract, see paragraph (f) of this section. 
For purposes of this paragraph (e), the rules of paragraph (d)(2)(ii) of 
this section (regarding realization by offset) apply. See Example 2 of 
paragraph (d)(2)(iv) of this section.
    (ii) Definition of currency swap contract--(A) In general. A 
currency swap contract is a contract involving different currencies 
between two or more parties to--
    (1) Exchange periodic interim payments, as defined in paragraph 
(e)(2)(ii)(C) of this section, on or prior to maturity of the contract; 
and
    (2) Exchange the swap principal amount upon maturity of the 
contract.

A currency swap contract may also require an exchange of the swap 
principal amount upon commencement of the agreement.
    (B) Swap principal amount. The swap principal amount is an amount of 
two different currencies which, under the terms of the currency swap 
contract, is used to determine the periodic interim payments in each 
currency and which

[[Page 609]]

is exchanged upon maturity of the contract. If such amount is not 
clearly set forth in the contract, the Commissioner may determine the 
swap principal amount.
    (C) Exchange of periodic interim payments. An exchange of periodic 
interim payments is an exchange of one or more payments in one currency 
specified by the contract for one or more payments in a different 
currency specified by the contract where the payments in each currency 
are computed by reference to an interest index applied to the swap 
principal amount. A currency swap contract must clearly indicate the 
periodic interim payments, or the interest index used to compute the 
periodic interim payments, in each currency.
    (iii) Timing and computation of periodic interim payments--(A) In 
general. Except as provided in paragraph (e)(2)(iii)(B) of this section 
and Sec. 1.988-5, the timing and computation of the periodic interim 
payments provided in a currency swap agreement shall be determined by 
treating--
    (1) Payments made under the swap as payments made pursuant to a 
hypothetical borrowing that is denominated in the currency in which 
payments are required to be made (or are determined with reference to) 
under the swap, and
    (2) Payments received under the swap as payments received pursuant 
to a hypothetical loan that is denominated in the currency in which 
payments are received (or are determined with reference to) under the 
swap.

Except as provided in paragraph (e)(2)(v) of this section, the 
hypothetical issue price of such hypothetical borrowing and loan shall 
be the swap principal amount. The hypothetical stated redemption price 
at maturity is the total of all payments (excluding any exchange of the 
swap principal amount at the inception of the contract) provided under 
the hypothetical borrowing or loan other than periodic interest payments 
under the principles of section 1273. For purposes of determining 
economic accrual under the currency swap, the number of hypothetical 
interest compounding periods of such hypothetical borrowing and loan 
shall be determined pursuant to a semiannual compounding convention 
unless the currency swap contract indicates otherwise. For purposes of 
determining the timing and amount of the periodic interim payments, the 
principles regarding the amortization of interest (see generally, 
sections 1272 through 1275 and 163(e)) shall apply to the hypothetical 
interest expense and income of such hypothetical borrowing and loan. 
However, such principles shall not apply to determine the time when 
principal is deemed to be paid on the hypothetical borrowing and loan. 
See paragraph (d)(2)(iii) of this section and Example 2 of paragraph 
(d)(5) of this section with respect to the time when principal is deemed 
to be paid. With respect to the translation and computation of exchange 
gain or loss on any hypothetical interest income or expense, see Sec. 
1.988-2(b). The amount treated as exchange gain or loss by the taxpayer 
with respect to the periodic interim payments for the taxable year shall 
be the amount of hypothetical interest income and exchange gain or loss 
attributable to such interest income from the hypothetical borrowing and 
loan for such year less the amount of hypothetical interest expense and 
exchange gain or loss attributable to the interest expense from such 
hypothetical borrowing and loan for such year.
    (B) Effect of prepayment for purposes of section 956. For purposes 
of section 956, the Commissioner may treat any prepayment of a currency 
swap as a loan.
    (iv) Timing and determination of exchange gain or loss with respect 
to the swap principal amount. Exchange gain or loss with respect to the 
swap principal amount shall be realized on the day the units of swap 
principal in each currency are exchanged. (See paragraph 
(e)(2)(ii)(A)(2) of this section which requires that the entire swap 
principal amount be exchanged upon maturity of the contract.) Such gain 
or loss shall be determined on the date of the exchange by subtracting 
the value (on such date) of the units of swap principal paid from the 
value of the units of swap principal received. This paragraph (e)(2)(iv) 
does not apply to an equal exchange of the swap principal amount at the 
commencement of the agreement at a market exchange rate.

[[Page 610]]

    (v) Anti-abuse rules--(A) Method of accounting does not clearly 
reflect income. If the taxpayer's method of accounting for income, 
expense, gain or loss attributable to a currency swap does not clearly 
reflect income, or if the present value of the payments to be made is 
not equivalent to that of the payments to be received (including the 
swap premium or discount, as defined in paragraph (e)(3)(ii) of this 
section) on the day the taxpayer enters into or acquires the contract, 
the Commissioner may apply principles analogous to those of section 1274 
or such other rules as the Commissioner deems appropriate to clearly 
reflect income. For example, in order to clearly reflect income the 
Commissioner may determine the hypothetical issue price, the 
hypothetical stated redemption price at maturity, and the amounts 
required to be taken into account within a taxable year. Further, if the 
present value of the payments to be made is not equivalent to that of 
the payments to be received (including the swap premium or discount, as 
defined in paragraph (e)(3)(ii) of this section) on the day the taxpayer 
enters into or acquires the contract, the Commissioner may integrate the 
swap with another transaction (or transactions) in order to clearly 
reflect income.
    (B) Terms must be clearly stated. If the currency swap contract does 
not clearly set forth the swap principal amount in each currency, and 
the periodic interim payments in each currency (or the interest index 
used to compute the periodic interim payments in each currency), the 
Commissioner may defer any income, deduction, gain or loss with respect 
to such contract until termination of the contract.
    (3) Amortization of swap premium or discount in the case of off-
market currency swaps--(i) In general. An ``off-market currency swap'' 
is a currency swap contract under which the present value of the 
payments to be made is not equal to that of the payments to be received 
on the day the taxpayer enters into or acquires the contract (absent the 
swap premium or discount, as defined in paragraph (e)(3)(ii) of this 
section). Generally, such present values may not be equal if the swap 
exchange rate (as defined in paragraph (e)(3)(iii) of this section) is 
not the spot rate, or the interest indices used to compute the periodic 
interim payments do not reflect current values, on the day the taxpayer 
enters into or acquires the currency swap.
    (ii) Treatment of taxpayer entering into or acquiring an off-market 
currency swap. If a taxpayer that enters into or acquires a currency 
swap makes a payment (that is, the taxpayer pays a premium, ``swap 
premium,'' to enter into or acquire the currency swap) or receives a 
payment (that is, the taxpayer enters into or acquires the currency swap 
at a discount, ``swap discount'') in order to make the present value of 
the amounts to be paid equal the amounts to be received, such payment 
shall be amortized in a manner which places the taxpayer in the same 
position it would have been in had the taxpayer entered into a currency 
swap contract under which the present value of the amounts to be paid 
equal the amounts to be received (absent any swap premium or discount). 
Thus, swap premium or discount shall be amortized as follows--
    (A) The amount of swap premium or discount that is attributable to 
the difference between the swap exchange rate (as defined in paragraph 
(e)(3)(iii) of this section) and the spot rate on the date the contract 
is entered into or acquired shall be taken into account as income or 
expense on the date the swap principal amounts are taken into account; 
and
    (B) The amount of swap premium or discount attributable to the 
difference in values of the periodic interim payments shall be amortized 
in a manner consistent with the principles of economic accrual. Cf., 
section 171.

Any amount taken into account pursuant to this paragraph (e)(3)(ii) 
shall be treated as exchange gain or loss.
    (iii) Definition of swap exchange rate. The swap exchange rate is 
the single exchange rate set forth in the contract at which the swap 
principal amounts are determined. If the swap exchange rate is not 
clearly set forth in the contract, the Commissioner may determine such 
rate.
    (iv) Coordination with Sec. 1.446-3(g)(4) regarding swaps with 
significant nonperiodic payments. The rules of Sec. 1.446-3(g)(4)

[[Page 611]]

apply to any currency swap with a significant nonperiodic payment. 
Section 1.446-3(g)(4) applies before this paragraph (e)(3). Thus, if 
Sec. 1.446-3(g)(4) applies, currency gain or loss may be realized on 
the loan. This paragraph (e)(3)(iv) applies to transactions entered into 
after February 14, 2000.
    (4) Treatment of taxpayer disposing of a currency swap. Any gain or 
loss realized on the disposition or the termination of a currency swap 
is exchange gain or loss.
    (5) Examples. The following examples illustrate the application of 
this paragraph (e).

    Example 1. (i) C is an accrual method calendar year corporation with 
the dollar as its functional currency. On January 1, 1989, C enters into 
a currency swap with J with the following terms:
    (1) the principal amount is $150 and 100 British pounds ([pound]) 
(the equivalent of $150 on the effective date of the contract assuming a 
spot rate of [pound]1 = $1.50 on January 1, 1989);
    (2) C will make payments equal to 10% of the dollar principal amount 
on December 31, 1989, and December 31, 1990;
    (3) J will make payments equal to 12% of the pound principal amount 
on December 31, 1989, and December 31, 1990; and
    (4) on December 31, 1990, C will pay to J the $150 principal amount 
and J will pay to C the [pound]100 principal amount.

Assume that the spot rate is [pound]1 = $1.50 on January 1, 1989, 
[pound]1 = $1.40 on December 31, 1989, and [pound]1 = $1.30 on December 
31, 1990. Assume further that the average rate for 1989 is [pound]1 = 
$1.45 and for 1990 is [pound]1 = $1.35.
    (ii) Solely for determining the realization of gain or loss in 
accordance with paragraph (e)(2) of this section (and not for purposes 
of determining whether any payments are treated as interest), C will 
treat the dollar payments made by C as payments made pursuant to a 
dollar borrowing with an issue price of $150, a stated redemption price 
at maturity of $150, and yield to maturity of 10%. C will treat the 
pound payments received as payments received pursuant to a pound loan 
with an issue price of [pound]100, a stated redemption price at maturity 
of [pound]100, and a yield of 12% to maturity. Pursuant to Sec. 1.988-
2(b), C is required to compute hypothetical accrued pound interest 
income at the average rate for the accrual period and then determine 
exchange gain or loss on the day payment is received with respect to 
such accrued amount. Accordingly, C will accrue $17.40 ([pound]12x$1.45) 
in 1989 and $16.20 ([pound]12x$1.35) in 1990. C also will compute 
hypothetical exchange loss of $.60 on December 31, 1989 
[([pound]12x$1.40)- ([pound]12x$1.45)] and hypothetical exchange loss of 
$.60 on December 31, 1990 [([pound]12x$1.30)- ([pound]12x$1.35)]. All 
such hypothetical interest income and exchange loss are characterized 
and sourced as exchange gain and loss. Further, C is treated as having 
paid $15 ($150x10%) of hypothetical interest on December 31, 1989, and 
again on December 31, 1990. Such hypothetical interest expense is 
characterized and sourced as exchange loss. Thus, C will have a net 
exchange gain of $1.80 ($17.40-$.60-$15.00) with respect to the periodic 
interim payments in 1989 and a net exchange gain of $.60 ($16.20-$.60-
$15.00) with respect to the periodic interim payments in 1990. Finally, 
C will realize an exchange loss on December 31, 1990, with respect to 
the exchange of the swap principal amount. This loss is determined by 
subtracting the value of the units of swap principal paid ($150) from 
the value of the units of swap principal received ([pound]100x$1.30 = 
$130) resulting in a $20 exchange loss.
    Example 2. (i) C is an accrual method calendar year corporation with 
the dollar as its functional currency. On January 1, 1989, when the spot 
rate is [pound]1 = $1.50, C enters into a currency swap contract with J 
under which C agrees to make and receive the following payments:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Date                          C pays       J pays
------------------------------------------------------------------------
December 31, 1989.............................       $15.00  [pound]12.0
                                                                       0
December 31, 1990.............................        41.04        12.00
December 31, 1991.............................         0.00        12.00
December 31, 1992.............................       150.00       112.00
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (ii) Under paragraph (e)(2)(iii) of this section, C must treat the 
dollar periodic interim payments under the swap as made pursuant to a 
hypothetical dollar borrowing. The hypothetical issue price is $150 and 
the stated redemption price at maturity is $206.04. The amount of 
hypothetical interest expense must be amortized in accordance with 
economic accrual. Thus J must include and C must deduct periodic interim 
payment amounts as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   Amount
                                                 taken into    Adjusted
                                                  account    issue price
------------------------------------------------------------------------
December 31, 1989.............................       $15.00       150.00
December 31, 1990.............................       $15.00       123.96
December 31, 1991.............................       $12.40       136.36
December 31, 1992.............................       $13.64
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (iii) Gain or loss with respect to the periodic interim payments of 
the currency swap is determined under paragraph (e)(2)(iii)(A) of this 
section with respect to the dollar cash flow amortized as set forth 
above and the corresponding pound cash flow as stated in the currency 
swap contract. Gain or loss with respect to the principal payments 
(i.e., $150 and [pound]100) exchanged on December 31, 1992, is 
determined under paragraph (e)(2)(iv) of this section on December 31, 
1992, notwithstanding that under the principles regarding

[[Page 612]]

amortization of interest $26.04 would have been regarded as a payment of 
principal on December 31, 1990.
    Example 3. (i) X is a corporation on the accrual method of 
accounting with the dollar as its functional currency and the calendar 
year as its taxable year. On January 1, 1989, X enters into a three year 
currency swap contract with Y with the following terms. The swap 
principal amount is $100 and the Swiss franc (Sf) equivalent of such 
amount which equals Sf200 translated at the swap exchange rate of $1 = 
Sf2. There is no initial exchange of the swap principal amount. The 
interest rates used to compute the periodic interim payments are 10% 
compounded annually for U.S. dollar payments and 5% compounded annually 
for Swiss franc payments. Thus, under the currency swap, X agrees to pay 
Y $10 (10%x$100) on December 31st of 1989, 1990 and 1991 and to pay Y 
the swap principal amount of $100 on December 31, 1991. Y agrees to pay 
X Sf10 (5%xSf200) on December 31st of 1989, 1990 and 1991 and to pay X 
the swap principal amount of Sf200 on December 31, 1991. Assume that the 
average rate for 1989 and the spot rate on December 31, 1989, is $1 = 
Sf2.5.
    (ii) Under paragraph (e)(2)(iii) of this section, on December 31, 
1989, X will realize an exchange loss of $6 (the sum of $10 of loss by 
reason of the $10 periodic interim payment paid to Y and $4.00 of gain, 
the value of Sf10 on December 31, 1989, from the receipt of Sf10 on such 
date).
    (iii) On January 1, 1990, X transfers its rights and obligations 
under the swap contract to Z, an unrelated corporation. Z has the dollar 
as its functional currency, is on the accrual method of accounting, and 
has the calendar year as its taxable year. On January 1, 1990, the 
exchange rate is $1 = Sf2.50. The relevant dollar interest rate is 8% 
compounded annually and the relevant Swiss franc interest rate is 5% 
compounded annually. Because of the movement in exchange and interest 
rates, the agreement between X and Z to transfer the currency swap 
requires X to pay Z $23.56 (the swap discount as determined under 
paragraph (e)(3) of this section).
    (iv) Pursuant to paragraph (e)(4) of this section, X may deduct the 
loss of $23.56 in 1990. The loss is characterized under Sec. 1.988-3 
and sourced under Sec. 1.988-4.
    (v) Pursuant to paragraph (e)(3)(ii) of this section, Z is required 
to amortize the $23.56 received as follows. The amount of the $23.56 
payment that is attributable to movements in exchange rates ($20) is 
taken into account on December 31, 1991, the date the swap principal 
amounts are exchanged, under paragraph (e)(3)(ii)(A) of this section. 
This amount is the present value (discounted at 10%, the rate under the 
currency swap contract used to compute the dollar periodic interim 
payments) of the financial asset required to compensate Z for the loss 
in value of the hypothetical Swiss franc loan resulting from movements 
in exchange rates between January 1, 1989, and January 1, 1990. This 
amount is determined by assuming that interest rates did not change from 
the date the swap originally was entered into (January 1, 1989), but 
that the exchange rate is $1 = Sf2.50. Under this assumption, a taxpayer 
undertaking the obligation to pay dollars under the currency swap on 
January 1, 1990, would only agree to pay $8 for Sf10 on December 31, 
1990, and $88 for Sf210 on December 31, 1991, because the exchange rates 
have moved from $1 = Sf2 to $1 = Sf2.50. Thus, Z requires $2 on December 
31, 1990, and $22 on December 31, 1991, to compensate for the amount of 
dollar payments Z is required to make in exchange for the Swiss francs 
received on December 31, 1990 and 1991. The present value of $2 on 
December 31, 1990, and $22 on December 31, 1991, discounted at the rate 
for U.S. dollar payments of 10% is $20 ($1.82+$18.18). This amount is 
discounted at the rate for U.S. dollar payments (i.e., at the historic 
rate) because the amount of the $23.56 payment received by Z that is 
attributable to movements in interest rates is computed and amortized 
separately as provided in the following paragraph.
    (vi) Pursuant to paragraph (e)(3)(ii)(B) of this section, Z is 
required to amortize the portion of the $23.56 payment attributable to 
movements in interest rates under principles of economic accrual over 
the term of the currency swap agreement. The amount of the $23.56 
payment that is attributable to movements in interest rates (assuming 
that exchange rates have not changed) is the present value ($3.56) of 
the excess ($2.00 in 1990 and $2.00 in 1991) of the periodic interim 
payments Z is required to pay under the currency swap agreement ($10 in 
1990 and $10 in 1991) over the amount Z would be required to pay if the 
currency swap agreement reflected current interest rates on the day Z 
acquired the swap contract ($8 in 1990 and $8 in 1991) discounted at the 
appropriate dollar interest rate on January 1, 1990. Thus, under 
principles of economic accrual (e.g., see section 171 of the Code), Z 
will include in income $1.72 on December 31, 1990, the amount that, when 
added to the interest ($.28) on the $3.56 computed at the 8% rate on the 
date Z acquired the currency swap contract, will equal the $2.00 needed 
to compensate Z for the movement in interest rates between January 1, 
1989, and January 1, 1990. Z also will include in income $1.85 on 
December 31, 1991, the amount that, when added to the interest ($.15) on 
the $1.85 (the remaining balance of the $3.56 payment) computed at the 
8% rate on the date Z acquired the currency swap contract, will equal 
the $2.00 needed to compensate Z for the movement in interest rates 
between January 1, 1990, and January 1, 1991. This amount is computed 
assuming exchange rates have not changed because the amount

[[Page 613]]

attributable to movements in exchange rates is computed and amortized 
separately under the preceding paragraph.

    (6) Special effective date for rules regarding currency swaps. 
Paragraph (e)(3) of this section regarding amortization of swap premium 
or discount in the case of off-market currency swaps shall be effective 
for transactions entered into after September 21, 1989, unless such swap 
premium or discount was paid or received pursuant to a binding contract 
with an unrelated party that was entered into prior to such date. For 
transactions entered into prior to this date, see Notice 89-21, 1989-8 
I.R.B. 23.
    (7) Special rules for currency swap contracts in hyperinflationary 
currencies--(i) In general. If a taxpayer enters into a 
hyperinflationary currency swap (as defined in paragraph (e)(7)(iv) of 
this section), then the taxpayer realizes exchange gain or loss for its 
taxable year with respect to such instrument determined by reference to 
the change in exchange rates between--
    (A) The later of the first day of the taxable year, or the date the 
instrument was entered into (by the taxpayer); and
    (B) The earlier of the last day of the taxable year, or the date the 
instrument is disposed of or otherwise terminated.
    (ii) Adjustment to principal or basis. Proper adjustments are made 
in the amount of any gain or loss subsequently realized for gain or loss 
taken into account by reason of this paragraph (e)(7).
    (iii) Interaction with DASTM. With respect to a qualified business 
unit that uses the United States dollar approximate separate 
transactions method of accounting described in Sec. 1.985-3, this 
paragraph (e)(7) does not apply.
    (iv) Definition of hyperinflationary currency swap contract. A 
hyperinflationary currency swap contract is a currency swap contract 
that provides for--
    (A) Payments denominated in or determined by reference to a currency 
that is hyperinflationary (as defined in Sec. 1.988-1(f)) at the time 
the taxpayer enters into or otherwise acquires the currency swap; or
    (B) Payments that are adjusted to take into account the fact that 
the currency is hyperinflationary (as defined in Sec. 1.988-1(f)) 
during the current taxable year. A currency swap contract that provides 
for periodic payments determined by reference to a variable interest 
rate based on local conditions and generally responding to changes in 
the local consumer price index is an example of this latter type of 
currency swap contract.
    (v) Special effective date for nonfunctional hyperinflationary 
currency swap contracts. This paragraph (e)(7) applies to transactions 
entered into after February 14, 2000.
    (f) Substance over form--(1) In general. If the substance of a 
transaction described in Sec. 1.988-1(a)(1) differs from its form, the 
timing, source, and character of gains or losses with respect to such 
transaction may be recharacterized by the Commissioner in accordance 
with its substance. For example, if a taxpayer enters into a transaction 
that it designates a ``currency swap contract'' that requires the 
prepayment of all payments to be made or to be received (but not both), 
the Commissioner may recharacterize the contract as a loan. In applying 
the substance over form principle, separate transactions may be 
integrated where appropriate. See also Sec. 1.861-9T(b)(1).
    (2) Example. The following example illustrates the provisions of 
this paragraph (f).

    Example. (i) On January 1, 1990, X, a U.S. corporation with the 
dollar as its functional currency, enters into a contract with Y under 
which X will pay Y $100 and Y will pay X LC100 on January 1, 1990, and X 
will pay Y LC109.3 and Y will pay X $133 on December 31, 1992. On 
January 1, 1990, the spot exchange rate is LC1 = $1 and the 3 year 
forward rate is LC1 = $.8218. X's cash flows are summarized below:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Date                            Dollar     LC
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1/1/90................................................    (100)      100
12/31/90..............................................        0        0
12/31/91..............................................        0        0
12/31/92..............................................      133  (109.3)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (ii) X and Y designate this contract as a ``currency swap.'' 
Notwithstanding this designation, for purposes of determining the 
timing, source, and character with respect to the transaction, the 
transaction is characterized by the Commissioner in accordance

[[Page 614]]

with its substance. Thus, the January 1, 1990, exchange by X of $100 for 
LC 100 is treated as a spot purchase of LCs by X and the December 31, 
1992, exchange by X at 109.3LC for $133 is treated as a forward sale of 
LCs by X. Under such treatment there would be no tax consequences to X 
under paragraph (e)(2) of this section in 1990, 1991, and 1992 with 
respect to this transaction other than the realization of exchange gain 
or loss on the sale of the LC109.3 on December 31, 1992. Calculation of 
such gain or loss would be governed by the rules of paragraph (d) of 
this section.

    (g) Effective date. Except as otherwise provided in this section, 
this section shall be effective for taxable years beginning after 
December 31, 1986. Thus, except as otherwise provided in this section, 
any payments made or received with respect to a section 988 transaction 
in taxable years beginning after December 31, 1986, are subject to this 
section.
    (h) Timing of income and deductions from notional principal 
contracts. Except as otherwise provided (e.g., in Sec. 1.988-5 or 
1.446-3(g)), income or loss from a notional principal contract described 
in Sec. 1.988-1(a)(2)(iii)(B) (other than a currency swap) is exchange 
gain or loss. For the rules governing the timing of income and 
deductions with respect to notional principal contracts, see Sec. 
1.446-3. See paragraph (e)(2) of this section with respect to currency 
swaps.

[T.D. 8400, 57 FR 9183, Mar. 17, 1992, as amended by T.D. 8491, 58 FR 
53135, Oct. 14, 1993; T.D. 8860, 65 FR 2028, Jan. 13, 2000]