How Structured Products Work
The performance of a structured product depends on one or more underlying assets (stock index, share, interest rate, etc.), according to scenarios defined in advance.
This predefined structure allows investors to anticipate various outcomes at maturity — or even during the life of the product — thanks to early redemption mechanisms known as autocall features.
One of the key advantages of conditionally capital-protected structured products lies in their flexibility. Most include a capital protection barrier, limiting the risk of loss under specific market conditions.
Before investing, it is essential to assess the core characteristics:
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Investment horizon
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Risk level
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Early redemption conditions
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Liquidity constraints
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Tax treatment
Below are two structured products currently available, selected for their attractive yield/protection positioning.
Perspectives May 2025
Issuer: Goldman Sachs
Term: 2 to 12 years
Underlying: Euronext US Market Leaders 100 Decrement 50 Index
Gross Coupon: 2.5% per quarter (10% per year)
Observation Frequency: Quarterly, starting from year 2
Key Features
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Early Redemption Barrier with Gain: 95% of the initial index level
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Capital Protection Barrier: 50% of the initial index level
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In other words, an index decline of up to 50% does not result in capital loss at maturity
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Memory Coupon Feature: Any unpaid coupons are fully recovered upon a subsequent early redemption
Example: If the product is redeemed in year 2, the investor may receive 20% cumulatively (10% per year).
This product targets investors seeking high yield potential combined with conditional capital protection within a clearly defined framework.
Rates May 2025
Issuer: Goldman Sachs
Maximum Term: 12 years
Underlying: 10-year CMS (Constant Maturity Swap rate)
(A financial benchmark rate commonly used in fixed-rate swap transactions.)
Annual Coupon: 7.00%
Autocall Barrier (from year 2): 2.25%
Coupon Barrier: 3%
Frequency: Annual observation, payment at maturity
Capital: Guaranteed at maturity
Investment Rationale
This structured product provides exposure to interest rates while offering an attractive yield and full capital protection at maturity. It may therefore be particularly suitable within a defensive wealth management strategy.