MSCI EM‑linked notes from GS Finance (NYSE: GS) with 102% upside, 20% buffer
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
GS Finance Corp. is offering medium-term, non-interest-bearing notes linked to the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. The aggregate face amount is $1,170,000 and each note has a $1,000 face amount. The upside participation rate is 102% and the trigger buffer is 80% (a 20% buffer).
Payment at maturity depends on the underlier from the trade date to the determination date: if the final level is at or above the initial level, holders receive $1,000 plus $1,000×102%×underlier return; if the final level is below the initial but ≥ the trigger buffer level, holders receive $1,000 plus the absolute underlier return; if the final level is below the trigger buffer level, holders suffer losses equal to the underlier return against the face amount and could lose their entire investment. Trade date: February 18, 2026; original issue date: February 23, 2026; determination date: February 20, 2029; stated maturity date: February 23, 2029. The notes are guaranteed by The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. and carry issuer and guarantor credit risk.
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Insights
Notes provide conditional upside with a 20% buffer but full downside below the buffer.
The notes link payoff to the MSCI Emerging Markets Index with an 102% upside participation rate and a 20% trigger buffer (trigger buffer level 80% of the initial underlier level). If the final underlier level is below the trigger buffer level, losses are linear to the underlier decline and can equal the entire face amount.
Primary dependencies are the final underlier level on the February 20, 2029 determination date and the creditworthiness of GS Finance Corp. and The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.. Subsequent disclosures and the final published closing level on the determination date will determine payoffs.
Economic terms embed distribution fees and start below model value.
The pricing supplement states the original issue price equals 100% of face amount while GS&Co.'s estimated model value is lower; the difference reflects underwriting discounts and a structuring fee up to 0.6%. That gap declines on a straight-line basis as described in the supplement.
Secondary market liquidity is not guaranteed and quoted prices would reflect the issuer's and GS&Co.'s models, current bid/ask spreads, and credit spreads. Holders selling before maturity face potential commissions and dealer discounts.
FAQ
What payoff mechanics govern the GS (GS Finance) MSCI Emerging Markets-linked notes?
When do the GS notes mature and what are the key dates for buyers?
How much upside and downside exposure do the GS notes provide?
Who bears credit risk for the GS Finance MSCI Emerging Markets notes (symbol GS)?
Will the GS notes pay interest or dividends before maturity?

