GS Finance $1,000,000 SMH‑Linked Notes with 20% Buffer
GS Finance Corp. offers $1,000,000 of medium-term notes linked to the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) with a two-year term and an automatic call feature.
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
GS Finance Corp. offers $1,000,000 of medium-term notes linked to the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) with a two-year term and an automatic call feature. Each $1,000 face amount pays no interest; if automatically called on the call observation date the call payment equals $1,293 per $1,000. If not called, cash at maturity depends on the underlier return, a 100% upside participation rate, a 20% buffer (buffer level = 80% of initial level) and a buffer rate of 125%. The initial underlier level is $578.34 (closing level on May 14, 2026), trade date was May 15, 2026, original issue date May 20, 2026, determination date May 15, 2028, and stated maturity May 18, 2028. The notes are senior obligation of GS Finance Corp., fully and unconditionally guaranteed by The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., carry underwriting discount of 1.5% and net proceeds of 98.5% of face amount.
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Insights
These are capped, buffer-structured, non‑interest paying notes tied to SMH with an early call and limited upside.
The notes pay no coupons and offer 100% participation in positive SMH returns up to an automatic-call outcome that yields $1,293 per $1,000 if the call condition is met on the call observation date. Downside protection is a mechanical 20% buffer applied via a 125% buffer rate that can still produce substantial losses if SMH falls below the buffer.
Their market value prior to call or maturity will reflect GS credit spreads, SMH levels and volatility; liquidity is not guaranteed and GS&Co. is not obligated to make a market. Timing and payment mechanics are tied to the disclosed call, determination and maturity dates.
Tax treatment is uncertain; issuer counsel treats the notes as pre-paid derivatives for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
The pricing supplement states Sidley Austin LLP's opinion that notes may be characterized as pre-paid derivative contracts, with gains generally treated as capital gain or loss, but Section 1260 constructive ownership rules could recharacterize long-term capital gain as ordinary income and impose interest charges. FATCA withholding and 871(m) considerations are discussed.
Because federal tax treatment is not settled, holders should consult tax advisors about potential recharacterization, withholding exposure and treatment on sale, redemption or maturity.
Key Figures
Key Terms
Automatic call financial
Buffer level financial
Upside participation rate financial
Calculation agent financial
Constructive ownership rules (Section 1260) regulatory
Offering Details
FAQ
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What does the GS (GS Finance Corp.) note pay if it is automatically called?
How is the payment at maturity determined for the GS note tied to SMH?
What downside protection does the offered note provide?
Who bears credit risk and will these notes pay interest?
What are the key dates for the offering of these notes (GS)?
AI-generated analysis. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.


