An asset sale is the purchase of individual assets and liabilities, whereas a stock sale is the purchase of the owner's shares of a corporation. Asset Sale lets buyers choose specific assets and liabilities; Stock Sale doesn't.​​ The main difference between asset sales vs. Learn the tax implications for each type of sale. While an asset sale outshines a stock sale in company structure support, it loses a fair amount of points when it comes to tax implications. Buyers typically prefer structuring acquisitions as asset deals because they receive a stepup in the basis of the acquired assets. An asset sale is when a company sells assets, such as equipment, customer lists, goodwill, and licenses. In this type of sale, there is no change in ownership. Generally, a stock sale is better for the seller and an asset sale is better for the buyer. An asset sale allows the transfer of specific assets and liabilities while the seller remains being owner of the legal entity.