Answer:
Martin has a recognized gain on the transfer of $40,000 and a basis of $0 for his stock.
Step-by-step explanation:
Martin's gain = liability assumed on the real estate transfer - real estate basis = $300,000 - $260,000 = $40,000
Martin's basis for his stock = real estate basis + recognized gain - liability assumed on the real estate transfer = $260,000 + $40,000 - $300,000 = $0
In this case the corporation assumed a liability, and the basic accounting equation is:
assets = liabilities + equity
If the liability's value offset the asset value, then there is no increase in equity.