In an asset sale, the buyer selects specific assets and typically avoids inheriting liabilities. In a stock sale, the buyer acquires equity from the target company's shareholders.One major difference between a stock sale and asset sale is that the buyer typically does not acquire the existing liabilities of the selling company. The main difference between asset sales vs. 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.