Koch traded Machine 1 for Machine 2 when the fair market value of both machines was $50,000. Koch originally purchased Machine 1 for $75,000, and Machine 1's adjusted basis was $40,000 at the time of the exchange. Machine 2's seller purchased it for $65,000 and Machine 2's adjusted basis was $55,000 at the time of the exchange. What is Koch's adjusted basis in Machine 2 after the exchange

Simply put, adjusted basis is the cost of an object after factors that affects the cost has being considered. These factors usually include taxes, depreciation value and any other cost incurred in getting and retaining the said object. Adjusted basis is important so as to know the right amount to sell.

Adjusted basis increases when an individual factors the cost incurred from taxes and maintenance ad it reduces when he/she factors in depreciation.

In the case of Koch, he already exchanged his machine for another at $50,000, as far as he is concerned at that moment, the adjusted basis is $50,000 because it was exchanged in a fair market.