# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0001479026
**File Stem:** 0001193125-25-143459
**Filing Date:** 2025-6
**Character Count:** 1231400
**Document Hash:** 837f4ea3bde97e3cfbf9340baf031cb4
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001193125-25-143459.hdr.sgml**: 20250620

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001193125-25-143459

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 485APOS

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 13

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20250620

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20250620

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Goldman Sachs ETF Trust
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001479026

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0831

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 485APOS
- **SEC ACT:** 1940 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 811-23013
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251059984

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 200 WEST STREET
- **CITY:** NEW YORK
- **STATE:** NY
- **ZIP:** 10282-2198
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** (312) 655-4400

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 200 WEST STREET
- **CITY:** NEW YORK
- **STATE:** NY
- **ZIP:** 10282-2198
**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Goldman Sachs ETF Trust
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001479026

**ORGANIZATION NAME:**
- **EIN:** 000000000
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** DE
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 0831

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 485APOS
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-200933
- **FILM NUMBER:** 251059983

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 200 WEST STREET
- **CITY:** NEW YORK
- **STATE:** NY
- **ZIP:** 10282-2198
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** (312) 655-4400

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 200 WEST STREET
- **CITY:** NEW YORK
- **STATE:** NY
- **ZIP:** 10282-2198

**As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 20, 2025** 

**1933 Act Registration No. 333-200933** 

**1940 Act Registration No. 811-23013** 

**UNITED STATES** 

**SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION** 

**Washington, D.C. 20549** 

**FORM N-1A** 

**REGISTRATION STATEMENT** 

***UNDER***

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ***THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933*** | ☒ |
| **Pre-Effective Amendment No.<u> </u>** | ☐ |
| **Post-Effective Amendment No. 692** | ☒ |

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**and/or** 

**REGISTRATION STATEMENT** 

***UNDER***

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ***THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940*** | ☒ |
| **Amendment No. 695** | ☒ |

---

**(Check appropriate box or boxes)** 

## GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST
**(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)** 

**200 West Street** 

**New York, New York 10282** 

**(Address of Principal Executive Offices)** 

**Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code: (212) 902-1000** 

**ROBERT GRIFFITH, ESQ.** 

**Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC** 

**200 West Street** 

**New York, New York 10282** 

**(Name and Address of Agent for Service)** 

***Copies to:***

**STEPHEN H. BIER, ESQ.** 

**ALLISON M. FUMAI, ESQ.** 

**Dechert LLP** 

**1095 Avenue of the Americas** 

**New York, New York 10036** 

**Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering**: As soon as practicable after the effective date of the Registration Statement

It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box)

☐ immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)

☐ on (date) pursuant to paragraph (b)

☐ 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)

☐ on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)

☒ 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)

☐ on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of rule 485.

If appropriate, check the following box:

☐ this post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.

Title of Securities Being Registered:

Shares of the Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF, Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF, Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF and Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF

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**The information in this Prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This Prospectus is not an offer to sell securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.** 

**Preliminary Prospectus dated June 20, 2025** 

**Subject to Completion** 

## Prospectus
**[ ], 2025**![LOGO](g941167gsamhorizlogo.jpg)

GOLDMAN SACHS FUNDAMENTAL EQUITY ACTIVE ETFS

**Goldman Sachs ETF Trust** 

⬛ Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;∎ The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC: GUSE

⬛ Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;∎ The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC: GSGO

⬛ Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;∎ The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC: GTOP

⬛ Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;∎ The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC: GVLE

THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.

AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUND IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY. AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUND INVOLVES INVESTMENT RISKS, AND YOU MAY LOSE MONEY IN THE FUND.

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**Table of Contents**

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Page** | **Page** |
| [GOLDMAN SACHS ENHANCED U.S. EQUITY ETF – SUMMARY](#toc941167_1) |  | 1 |
| [GOLDMAN SACHS GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES ETF – SUMMARY](#toc941167_2) |  | 5 |
| [GOLDMAN SACHS TECHNOLOGY OPPORTUNITIES ETF – SUMMARY](#toc941167_3) |  | 9 |
| [GOLDMAN SACHS VALUE OPPORTUNITIES ETF – SUMMARY](#toc941167_4) |  | 14 |
| [GOLDMAN SACHS FUNDAMENTAL EQUITY ACTIVE ETFS – ADDITIONAL SUMMARY INFORMATION](#toc941167_5) |  | 18 |
| [INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT APPROACH](#toc941167_6) |  | 19 |
| [RISKS OF THE FUNDS](#toc941167_7) |  | 27 |
| [TAX ADVANTAGED PRODUCT STRUCTURE](#toc941167_8) |  | 37 |
| [SERVICE PROVIDERS](#toc941167_9) |  | 38 |
| [DISTRIBUTIONS](#toc941167_10) |  | 43 |
| [SHAREHOLDER GUIDE](#toc941167_11) |  | 44 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [BUYING AND SELLING SHARES](#toc941167_12) | 44 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES](#toc941167_13) | 44 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [NET ASSET VALUE](#toc941167_14) | 45 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [BOOK ENTRY](#toc941167_15) | 46 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; [CREATIONS AND REDEMPTIONS](#toc941167_16) | 46 |  |
| [TAXATION](#toc941167_17) |  | 48 |
| [OTHER INFORMATION](#toc941167_18) |  | 50 |
| [APPENDIX A](#toc941167_19)<br> [ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON PORTFOLIO RISKS, SECURITIES AND TECHNIQUES](#toc941167_19) |  | 51 |
| [APPENDIX B](#toc941167_20)<br> [FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS](#toc941167_20) |  | 68 |
| [GOLDMAN SACHS FUNDAMENTAL EQUITY ACTIVE ETFS PROSPECTUS](#toc941167_21) | Back Cover | Back Cover |

---

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![LOGO](g941167gsamhorizlogo.jpg)

**Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF—Summary** 

**Ticker: GUSE Stock Exchange: The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC** 

INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE

The Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF (the "Fund") seeks long-term growth of capital.

FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND

This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy, hold and sell Shares of the Fund. **You may pay other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, which are not reflected in the table and Example below.**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
|  **Annual Fund Operating Expenses** |  |
| **(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)** |  |
|  Management Fee | 0.30% |
|  Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fee | 0.00% |
|  Other Expenses<sup>1</sup> | 0.00% |
|  **Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses** | 0.30% |

---

*The Fund's "Other Expenses" have been estimated to reflect expenses expected to be incurred during the current fiscal year.* 

EXPENSE EXAMPLE

This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of owning Shares of the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then sell all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **1 Year** | **3 Years** |
| **$31** | **$97** |

---

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER

The Fund may pay transaction costs when it buys and sells securities or instruments (*i.e.*, "turns over" its portfolio). A high rate of portfolio turnover may result in increased transaction costs, including brokerage commissions, which must be borne by the Fund and its shareholders, and is also likely to result in higher short-term capital gains for taxable shareholders. These costs are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the expense example above, but are reflected in the Fund's performance. The Fund's portfolio turnover rate for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024 was 79% of the average value of its portfolio. The portfolio turnover rate shown is that of the predecessor fund (as defined below).

PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its net assets plus any borrowings for investment purposes (measured at the time of purchase) ("Net Assets") in equity securities issued by small-, mid- and large-cap U.S. companies. Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Equity securities include, among other things, common stocks. A U.S. company is an issuer economically tied to the United States.

The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal circumstances, in companies that are considered by the Investment Adviser to be positioned for long-term growth of capital. Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. ("GSAM" or the "Investment Adviser") uses a combination of fundamental research and quantitative factors to achieve its investment objective. The Fund's fundamental equity growth investment process involves evaluating potential investments based on specific characteristics believed to identify high-quality businesses with sustainable growth prospects, including strong business franchises, favorable long-term prospects, and excellent management. The Investment Adviser may integrate environmental, social and governance ("ESG") factors alongside traditional fundamental factors as part of its fundamental research process. No one factor or consideration is determinative in the stock selection process.

------

Investments will be further evaluated for their exposures to quantitative factors, such as, for example, valuation, profitability and volatility, to seek to enhance the Fund's risk adjusted returns. Risk management, portfolio construction and sizing of positions will be informed by portfolio-level quantitative factor considerations. The Investment Adviser may decide to sell a position for various reasons, including when a company's fundamental outlook deteriorates, because of valuation and price considerations, for risk management purposes, or when a company is deemed to be misallocating capital.

Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 20% of its Net Assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries") and securities quoted in foreign currencies. The Fund may also invest in privately held companies and companies that only recently began to trade publicly.

The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Net Assets in fixed income securities (including high yield fixed income securities), such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations.

The Fund is an actively managed ETF, which is a fund that trades like other publicly traded securities. The Fund is not an index fund and does not seek to replicate the performance of a specified index.

The Investment Adviser measures the Fund's performance against the S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index.

PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUND

**Loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") or any government agency. The Fund should not be relied upon as a complete investment program. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. Investments in the Fund involve substantial risks which prospective investors should consider carefully before investing. The Fund's principal risks are presented below in alphabetical order, and not in the order of importance or potential exposure.** 

**Goldman Sachs (as defined herein) and its affiliates advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives, investment strategies and/or policies similar to those of the Fund, and such accounts and funds will have portfolio holdings that overlap with the Fund. Due to differences in tax management considerations and implementation techniques, trades of the Fund's portfolio are generally executed after those of such accounts and funds. As a result, the Fund's investment results may be higher or lower, and potentially significantly lower, than those of such accounts and funds.** 

***Foreign and Emerging Countries Risk.*** Foreign securities may be subject to risk of loss because of more or less foreign government regulation; less public information; less stringent investor protections; less stringent accounting, corporate governance, financial reporting and disclosure standards; and less economic, political and social stability in the countries in which the Fund invests. The imposition of sanctions, exchange controls (including repatriation restrictions), confiscations, trade restrictions (including tariffs) and other government restrictions by the United States and other governments, or from problems in share registration, settlement or custody, may also result in losses. The type and severity of sanctions and other similar measures, including counter sanctions and other retaliatory actions, that may be imposed could vary broadly in scope, and their impact is impossible to predict. For example, the imposition of sanctions and other similar measures could, among other things, cause a decline in the value and/or liquidity of securities issued by the sanctioned country or companies located in or economically tied to the sanctioned country and increase market volatility and disruption in the sanctioned country and throughout the world. Sanctions and other similar measures could limit or prevent the Fund from buying and selling securities (in the sanctioned country and other markets), significantly delay or prevent the settlement of securities transactions, and significantly impact the Fund's liquidity and performance. Foreign risk also involves the risk of negative foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, which may cause the value of securities denominated in such foreign currency (or other instruments through which the Fund has exposure to foreign currencies) to decline in value. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time. These risks are more pronounced in connection with the Fund's investments in securities of issuers located in, or otherwise economically tied to, emerging countries.

***Investment Style Risk.*** Different investment styles (*e.g.*, "growth", "value" or "quantitative") tend to shift in and out of favor depending upon market and economic conditions and investor sentiment. The Fund may outperform or underperform other funds that invest in similar asset classes but employ different investment styles. Growth investing is an example of an investment style. Growth companies are often expected by investors to increase their earnings at a certain rate. When these expectations are not met, investors can punish the stocks inordinately even if earnings showed an absolute increase.

***Large Shareholder Risk.*** Certain shareholders, including other funds advised by the Investment Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's Shares. In addition, a third party investor, the Investment Adviser or an affiliate of the Investment Adviser, an authorized participant, a lead market maker, or another entity (*i.e.*, a seed investor) may invest in the Fund and hold its investment solely to facilitate commencement of the Fund or to facilitate the Fund's achieving a specified size or scale. Any such investment may be held for a limited period of time. There can be no assurance that any large shareholder would not redeem its investment, that the size of the Fund would be maintained at such levels or that the Fund would continue to meet applicable listing requirements. Redemptions by large shareholders could have a significant negative impact on the Fund, including on the Fund's

------

liquidity. In addition, transactions by large shareholders may account for a large percentage of the trading volume on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC ("NASDAQ") and may, therefore, have a material upward or downward effect on the market price of the Shares.

***Market Risk.*** The value of the securities in which the Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies, particular sectors, governments or countries and/or general economic conditions throughout the world due to increasingly interconnected global economies and financial markets. Events such as war, military conflict, geopolitical disputes, acts of terrorism, social or political unrest, natural disasters, recessions, inflation, rapid interest rate changes, supply chain disruptions, tariffs and other restrictions on trade, sanctions or the spread of infectious illness or other public health threats, or the threat or potential of one or more such events and developments, could also significantly impact the Fund and its investments.

***Market Trading Risk.*** The net asset value ("NAV") of the Fund and the value of your investment may fluctuate. Market prices of Shares may fluctuate, in some cases significantly, in response to the Fund's NAV, the intraday value of the Fund's holdings and supply and demand for Shares. The Fund faces numerous market trading risks, including disruptions to creations and redemptions, the existence of extreme market volatility or potential lack of an active trading market for Shares. Any of these factors, among others, may result in Shares trading at a significant premium or discount to NAV, which will be reflected in the intraday bid/ask spreads and/or the closing price of Shares as compared to NAV. If a shareholder purchases Shares at a time when the market price is at a premium to the NAV or sells Shares at a time when the market price is at a discount to the NAV, the shareholder may pay more for, or receive less than, the underlying value of the Shares, respectively. Additionally, in stressed market conditions, the market for Shares may become less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings.

The securities held by the Fund may be traded in markets that close at a different time than the stock exchange on which the Fund's Shares are listed. Liquidity in those securities may be reduced after the applicable closing times. Accordingly, during the time when the Fund's listing exchange is open but after the applicable market closing, fixing or settlement times, bid-ask spreads and the resulting premium or discount to the Shares' NAV may widen.

***Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Risk.*** Investments in mid-capitalization and small-capitalization companies involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more established companies. These securities may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements and may lack sufficient market liquidity, and these issuers often face greater business risks.

***Stock Risk.*** Stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. U.S. and foreign stock markets have experienced periods of substantial price volatility in the past and may do so again in the future.

***Valuation Risk.*** The sale price the Fund could receive for a security may differ from the Fund's valuation of the security, particularly for securities that trade in low volume or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair value methodology. Because non-U.S. exchanges may be open on days when the Fund does not price its Shares, the value of foreign securities or assets in the Fund's portfolio may change on days when investors will not be able to purchase or sell the Fund's Shares. The Fund relies on various sources to calculate its NAV. The information may be provided by third parties that are believed to be reliable, but the information may not be accurate due to errors by such pricing sources, technological issues or otherwise. NAV calculation may also be impacted by operational risks arising from factors such as failures in systems and technology.

PERFORMANCE

The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund. It is currently contemplated that before the Fund commences operations, the assets of another investment company advised by the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity Fund (the "predecessor fund"), will be transferred to the Fund in a tax-free reorganization. It is currently contemplated that the reorganization will take place upon the close of business on November [14], 2025. The Fund and the predecessor fund have identical investment objectives and fundamental investment policies and have substantially similar investment strategies. The performance of the predecessor fund has not been restated to reflect the annual operating expenses of the Fund, which are lower than those of the predecessor fund. Because the Fund has different fees and expenses than the predecessor fund, the Fund would also have had different performance results.

The bar chart and table show: (a) changes in the performance of the Fund's Shares (represented by the performance of the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares) from year to year; and (b) how the average annual total returns of the Fund (represented by the average annual total returns of the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares) compare to those of a broad-based securities market index. Prior to August 31, 2017, the Fund had been known as the Goldman Sachs Flexible Cap Growth Fund, and certain of its principal investment strategies differed. From September 1, 2017 through April 25, 2025, the predecessor fund had been known as the Goldman Sachs Enhanced Core Equity Fund, and certain of its principal investment strategies differed. Performance information set forth below during such periods reflects the performance resulting from the predecessor fund's former strategies during the periods. The Fund's (and the predecessor fund's) past performance, before and after taxes, is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available at no cost at am.gs.com or by calling the appropriate phone number on the back cover of the Prospectus.

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Performance reflects applicable fee waivers and/or expense limitations in effect during the periods shown.

**<u>CALENDAR YEAR (INSTITUTIONAL)</u>** ![LOGO](g941167g05a05.jpg)

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Returns** | **Quarter ended** |
|  Year-to-Date Return | 19.30% | September 30, 2024 |
| **During the periods shown in the chart above:** | **Returns** | **Quarter ended** |
|  Best Quarter Return | 21.34% | June 30, 2020 |
|  Worst Quarter Return | –18.79% | March 31, 2020 |

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AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **For the period ended December 31, 2024** | **1 Year** | **5 Years** | **10 Years** | **Inception<br>Date** |
|  **Institutional Shares** |  |  |  | 1/31/2008 |
|  Returns Before Taxes | 22.97% | 15.12% | 13.35% |  |
|  Returns After Taxes on Distributions | 22.26% | 13.97% | 11.56% |  |
|  Returns After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | 13.99% | 11.84% | 10.38% |  |
|  S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | 24.94% | 14.51% | 13.09% |  |

---

The after-tax returns for Institutional Shares will vary. After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. In addition, the after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares through tax-deferred arrangements such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.

PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT

Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. is the investment adviser for the Fund.

*Portfolio Managers:* Kevin Martens, Vice President; Jenny Chang, Managing Director; and Raj Garigipati, Managing Director, have managed the Fund since 2025. Mr. Martens and Ms. Chang were the predecessor fund's portfolio managers since 2024.

BUYING AND SELLING FUND SHARES

Individual Shares of the Fund may only be purchased and sold in secondary market transactions through a broker or dealer at market price. Because Shares trade at market prices, rather than NAV, Shares of the Fund may trade at a price greater than NAV (*i.e.*, a premium) or less than NAV (*i.e.*, a discount).

You may incur costs attributable to the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to pay for Shares (bid) and the lowest price a seller is willing to accept for Shares (ask) (the "bid-ask spread") when buying or selling Shares in the secondary market.

Recent information, including information about the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads (when available), is included on the Fund's website at am.gs.com.

TAX INFORMATION

For important tax information, please see "Tax Information" on page 18 of the Prospectus.

PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

For important information about financial intermediary compensation, please see "Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries" on page 18 of the Prospectus.

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![LOGO](g941167gsamhorizlogo.jpg)

**Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF—Summary** 

**Ticker: GSGO Stock Exchange: The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC** 

INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE

The Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF (the "Fund") seeks long-term growth of capital.

FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND

This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy, hold and sell Shares of the Fund. **You may pay other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, which are not reflected in the table and Example below.**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
|  **Annual Fund Operating Expenses** |  |
| **(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)** |  |
|  Management Fee | 0.45% |
|  Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fee | 0.00% |
|  Other Expenses<sup>1</sup> | 0.00% |
|  **Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses** | 0.45% |

---

*The Fund's "Other Expenses" have been estimated to reflect expenses expected to be incurred during the current fiscal year.* 

EXPENSE EXAMPLE

This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of owning Shares of the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then sell all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **1 Year** | **3 Years** |
| **$46** | **$144** |

---

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER

The Fund may pay transaction costs when it buys and sells securities or instruments (*i.e.*, "turns over" its portfolio). A high rate of portfolio turnover may result in increased transaction costs, including brokerage commissions, which must be borne by the Fund and its shareholders, and is also likely to result in higher short-term capital gains for taxable shareholders. These costs are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the expense example above, but are reflected in the Fund's performance. The Fund's portfolio turnover rate for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024 was 39% of the average value of its portfolio. The portfolio turnover rate shown is that of the predecessor fund (as defined below).

PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its net assets plus any borrowings for investment purposes (measured at the time of purchase) ("Net Assets") in equity securities. Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 20% of its Net Assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries") and securities quoted in foreign currencies.

The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal circumstances, in companies that are considered by Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. ("GSAM" or the "Investment Adviser") to be positioned for long-term growth. The Fund's fundamental equity growth investment process involves evaluating potential investments based on specific characteristics believed to indicate a high-quality business with sustainable growth, including strong business franchises, favorable long-term prospects, and excellent management. The Investment Adviser will also consider valuation of companies when determining whether to buy and/or sell securities. The Investment Adviser may integrate environmental, social and governance ("ESG") factors alongside traditional fundamental factors as part of its fundamental research process. No one factor or consideration is determinative in the stock selection process. The Investment Adviser may decide to sell a position for various reasons, including when a company's fundamental outlook deteriorates, because of valuation and price considerations, for risk management purposes, or when a company is deemed to be misallocating capital.

------

The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Net Assets in fixed income securities (including high yield fixed income securities), such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations.

THE FUND IS NON-DIVERSIFIED UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940, AS AMENDED ("INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT"), AND MAY INVEST A LARGER PERCENTAGE OF ITS ASSETS IN ONE OR MORE ISSUERS OR IN FEWER ISSUERS THAN DIVERSIFIED FUNDS.

The Fund is an actively managed ETF, which is a fund that trades like other publicly traded securities. The Fund is not an index fund and does not seek to replicate the performance of a specified index.

The Investment Adviser measures the Fund's performance against the Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Growth Index.

PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUND

**Loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") or any government agency. The Fund should not be relied upon as a complete investment program. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. Investments in the Fund involve substantial risks which prospective investors should consider carefully before investing. The Fund's principal risks are presented below in alphabetical order, and not in the order of importance or potential exposure.** 

**Goldman Sachs (as defined herein) and its affiliates advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives, investment strategies and/or policies similar to those of the Fund, and such accounts and funds will have portfolio holdings that overlap with the Fund. Due to differences in tax management considerations and implementation techniques, trades of the Fund's portfolio are generally executed after those of such accounts and funds. As a result, the Fund's investment results may be higher or lower, and potentially significantly lower, than those of such accounts and funds.** 

***Foreign and Emerging Countries Risk.*** Foreign securities may be subject to risk of loss because of more or less foreign government regulation; less public information; less stringent investor protections; less stringent accounting, corporate governance, financial reporting and disclosure standards; and less economic, political and social stability in the countries in which the Fund invests. The imposition of sanctions, exchange controls (including repatriation restrictions), confiscations, trade restrictions (including tariffs) and other government restrictions by the United States and other governments, or from problems in share registration, settlement or custody, may also result in losses. The type and severity of sanctions and other similar measures, including counter sanctions and other retaliatory actions, that may be imposed could vary broadly in scope, and their impact is impossible to predict. For example, the imposition of sanctions and other similar measures could, among other things, cause a decline in the value and/or liquidity of securities issued by the sanctioned country or companies located in or economically tied to the sanctioned country and increase market volatility and disruption in the sanctioned country and throughout the world. Sanctions and other similar measures could limit or prevent the Fund from buying and selling securities (in the sanctioned country and other markets), significantly delay or prevent the settlement of securities transactions, and significantly impact the Fund's liquidity and performance. Foreign risk also involves the risk of negative foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, which may cause the value of securities denominated in such foreign currency (or other instruments through which the Fund has exposure to foreign currencies) to decline in value. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time. These risks are more pronounced in connection with the Fund's investments in securities of issuers located in, or otherwise economically tied to, emerging countries.

***Investment Style Risk.*** Different investment styles (*e.g.*, "growth", "value" or "quantitative") tend to shift in and out of favor depending upon market and economic conditions and investor sentiment. The Fund may outperform or underperform other funds that invest in similar asset classes but employ different investment styles. Growth investing is an example of an investment style. Growth companies are often expected by investors to increase their earnings at a certain rate. When these expectations are not met, investors can punish the stocks inordinately even if earnings showed an absolute increase.

***Large Shareholder Risk.*** Certain shareholders, including other funds advised by the Investment Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's Shares. In addition, a third party investor, the Investment Adviser or an affiliate of the Investment Adviser, an authorized participant, a lead market maker, or another entity (*i.e.*, a seed investor) may invest in the Fund and hold its investment solely to facilitate commencement of the Fund or to facilitate the Fund's achieving a specified size or scale. Any such investment may be held for a limited period of time. There can be no assurance that any large shareholder would not redeem its investment, that the size of the Fund would be maintained at such levels or that the Fund would continue to meet applicable listing requirements. Redemptions by large shareholders could have a significant negative impact on the Fund, including on the Fund's liquidity. In addition, transactions by large shareholders may account for a large percentage of the trading volume on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC ("NASDAQ") and may, therefore, have a material upward or downward effect on the market price of the Shares.

***Market Risk.*** The value of the securities in which the Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies, particular sectors, governments or countries and/or general economic conditions throughout the world due to increasingly interconnected global economies and financial markets. Events such as war, military conflict, geopolitical disputes, acts of terrorism,

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social or political unrest, natural disasters, recessions, inflation, rapid interest rate changes, supply chain disruptions, tariffs and other restrictions on trade, sanctions or the spread of infectious illness or other public health threats, or the threat or potential of one or more such events and developments, could also significantly impact the Fund and its investments.

***Market Trading Risk.*** The net asset value ("NAV") of the Fund and the value of your investment may fluctuate. Market prices of Shares may fluctuate, in some cases significantly, in response to the Fund's NAV, the intraday value of the Fund's holdings and supply and demand for Shares. The Fund faces numerous market trading risks, including disruptions to creations and redemptions, the existence of extreme market volatility or potential lack of an active trading market for Shares. Any of these factors, among others, may result in Shares trading at a significant premium or discount to NAV, which will be reflected in the intraday bid/ask spreads and/or the closing price of Shares as compared to NAV. If a shareholder purchases Shares at a time when the market price is at a premium to the NAV or sells Shares at a time when the market price is at a discount to the NAV, the shareholder may pay more for, or receive less than, the underlying value of the Shares, respectively. Additionally, in stressed market conditions, the market for Shares may become less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings.

The securities held by the Fund may be traded in markets that close at a different time than the stock exchange on which the Fund's Shares are listed. Liquidity in those securities may be reduced after the applicable closing times. Accordingly, during the time when the Fund's listing exchange is open but after the applicable market closing, fixing or settlement times, bid-ask spreads and the resulting premium or discount to the Shares' NAV may widen.

***Non-Diversification Risk.*** The Fund is non-diversified, meaning that it is permitted to invest a larger percentage of its assets in one or more issuers or in fewer issuers than diversified funds. Thus, the Fund may be more susceptible to adverse developments affecting any single issuer held in its portfolio, and may be more susceptible to greater losses because of these developments. Under normal circumstances, the Fund intends to invest in approximately 20-40 companies.

***Sector Risk.*** To the extent the Fund focuses its investments in one or more sectors (such as the information technology sector), the Fund will be subject, to a greater extent than if its investments were diversified across different sectors, to the risks of volatile economic cycles and/or conditions or developments that may be particular to that sector, such as: adverse economic, business, political, environmental or other developments.

***Stock Risk.*** Stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. U.S. and foreign stock markets have experienced periods of substantial price volatility in the past and may do so again in the future.

***Valuation Risk.*** The sale price the Fund could receive for a security may differ from the Fund's valuation of the security, particularly for securities that trade in low volume or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair value methodology. Because non-U.S. exchanges may be open on days when the Fund does not price its Shares, the value of foreign securities or assets in the Fund's portfolio may change on days when investors will not be able to purchase or sell the Fund's Shares. The Fund relies on various sources to calculate its NAV. The information may be provided by third parties that are believed to be reliable, but the information may not be accurate due to errors by such pricing sources, technological issues or otherwise. NAV calculation may also be impacted by operational risks arising from factors such as failures in systems and technology.

PERFORMANCE

The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund. It is currently contemplated that before the Fund commences operations, the assets of another investment company advised by the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund (the "predecessor fund"), will be transferred to the Fund in a tax-free reorganization. It is currently contemplated that the reorganization will take place upon the close of business on November [14], 2025. The Fund and the predecessor fund have identical investment objectives and fundamental investment policies and have substantially similar investment strategies. The performance of the predecessor fund has not been restated to reflect the annual operating expenses of the Fund, which are lower than those of the predecessor fund. Because the Fund has different fees and expenses than the predecessor fund, the Fund would also have had different performance results.

The bar chart and table show: (a) changes in the performance of the Fund's Shares (represented by the performance of the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares) from year to year; and (b) how the average annual total returns of the Fund (represented by the average annual total returns of the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares) compare to those of a broad-based securities market index (Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index) (the "Regulatory Benchmark") and the Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Growth Index (the "Performance Benchmark"). The Performance Benchmark is generally more representative of the market sectors and/or types of investments in which the Fund invests or to which the Fund has exposure and which the Investment Adviser uses to measure the Fund's performance. The Fund has included in the table below the performance of the Regulatory Benchmark, which represents a broader measure of market performance, to comply with regulatory requirements. For additional information about these benchmark indices, please see "Additional Benchmark Information" on page 23 of the Prospectus. The Fund's (and the predecessor fund's) past performance, before and after taxes, is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available at no cost at am.gs.com or by calling the appropriate phone number on the back cover of the Prospectus.

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Performance reflects applicable fee waivers and/or expense limitations in effect during the periods shown.

**<u>CALENDAR YEAR (INSTITUTIONAL)</u>** ![LOGO](g941167g79l92.jpg)

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Returns** | **Quarter ended** |
|  Year-to-Date Return | 20.94% | September 30, 2024 |
| **During the periods shown in the chart above:** | **Returns** | **Quarter ended** |
|  Best Quarter Return | 28.22% | June 30, 2020 |
|  Worst Quarter Return | –23.11% | June 30, 2022 |

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AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **For the period ended December 31, 2024** | **1 Year** | **5 Years** | **10 Years** | **Inception<br>Date** |
|  **Institutional Shares** |  |  |  | 5/24/1999 |
|  Returns Before Taxes | 32.08% | 16.98% | 14.98% |  |
|  Returns After Taxes on Distributions | 29.93% | 14.38% | 11.55% |  |
|  Returns After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | 20.21% | 13.06% | 11.12% |  |
|  Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Growth Index | 33.25% | 18.94% | 16.76% |  |
|  Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index | 24.44% | 14.26% | 12.86% |  |

---

The after-tax returns for Institutional Shares will vary. After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. In addition, the after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares through tax-deferred arrangements such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.

PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT

Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. is the investment adviser for the Fund.

*Portfolio Managers:* Sung Cho, CFA, Managing Director; Charles "Brook" Dane, Managing Director; and Raj Garigipati, Managing Director, have managed the Fund since 2025. Messrs. Cho and Dane were the predecessor fund's portfolio managers since 2024.

BUYING AND SELLING FUND SHARES

Individual Shares of the Fund may only be purchased and sold in secondary market transactions through a broker or dealer at market price. Because Shares trade at market prices, rather than NAV, Shares of the Fund may trade at a price greater than NAV (*i.e.*, a premium) or less than NAV (*i.e.*, a discount).

You may incur costs attributable to the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to pay for Shares (bid) and the lowest price a seller is willing to accept for Shares (ask) (the "bid-ask spread") when buying or selling Shares in the secondary market.

Recent information, including information about the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads (when available), is included on the Fund's website at am.gs.com.

TAX INFORMATION

For important tax information, please see "Tax Information" on page 18 of the Prospectus.

PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

For important information about financial intermediary compensation, please see "Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries" on page 18 of the Prospectus.

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![LOGO](g941167gsamhorizlogo.jpg)

**Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF—Summary** 

**Ticker: GTOP Stock Exchange: The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC** 

INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE

The Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF (the "Fund") seeks long-term growth of capital.

FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND

This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy, hold and sell Shares of the Fund. **You may pay other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, which are not reflected in the table and Example below.**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  **Annual Fund Operating Expenses** |  |
| **(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)** |  |
|  Management Fee | 0.65% |
|  Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fee | 0.00% |
|  Other Expenses<sup>1</sup> | 0.00% |
|  **Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses** | 0.65% |

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*The Fund's "Other Expenses" have been estimated to reflect expenses expected to be incurred during the current fiscal year.* 

EXPENSE EXAMPLE

This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of owning Shares of the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then sell all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **1 Year** | **3 Years** |
| **$66** | **$208** |

---

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER

The Fund may pay transaction costs when it buys and sells securities or instruments (*i.e.*, "turns over" its portfolio). A high rate of portfolio turnover may result in increased transaction costs, including brokerage commissions, which must be borne by the Fund and its shareholders, and is also likely to result in higher short-term capital gains for taxable shareholders. These costs are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the expense example above, but are reflected in the Fund's performance. The Fund's portfolio turnover rate for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024 was 37% of the average value of its portfolio. The portfolio turnover rate shown is that of the predecessor fund (as defined below).

PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its net assets plus any borrowings for investment purposes (measured at the time of purchase) ("Net Assets") in equity investments in technology companies, as described below. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal circumstances, in companies that are considered by Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. ("GSAM" or the "Investment Adviser") to benefit from the proliferation of technology. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 20% of its Net Assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries") and securities quoted in foreign currencies. The Fund may also invest in privately held companies and companies that only recently began to trade publicly.

The Fund's fundamental equity growth investment process involves evaluating potential investments based on specific characteristics believed to indicate a high-quality business with sustainable growth, including strong business franchises, favorable long-term prospects, and excellent management. The Investment Adviser will also consider valuation of companies when determining whether to buy and/or sell securities. The Investment Adviser may integrate environmental, social and governance ("ESG") factors alongside traditional fundamental factors as part of its fundamental research process. No one factor or consideration is determinative in the stock selection process. The Investment Adviser may decide to sell a position for various reasons, including when a company's fundamental outlook deteriorates, because of valuation and price considerations, for risk management purposes, or when a company is deemed to be misallocating capital.

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The Fund intends to invest a substantial portion of its assets in technology companies. In general, the Investment Adviser defines a technology company as a high-quality technology, services, media or telecommunications company that adopts or uses technology to improve its cost structure, revenue opportunities or competitive advantage. The Investment Adviser seeks to identify technology companies that exhibit many of the following characteristics:

⬛ Strong brand name

⬛ Dominant market share

⬛ Recurring revenue streams

⬛ Free cash flow generation

⬛ Long product life cycle

⬛ Enduring competitive advantage

⬛ Excellent management

The Investment Adviser seeks to identify technology companies that are promising growth businesses. These companies may grow revenue by increasing sales volumes, prices, customers and market share. The Internet is an example of a technology that the Investment Adviser believes will drive growth for many technology businesses. The Internet has had, and is expected to continue to have, a significant impact on the global economy, as it changes the way many companies operate. Benefits of the Internet for businesses may include global scalability, acquisition of new clients, new revenue sources and increased efficiencies. Technology companies adopting innovative Internet technologies to improve their business models include providers of infrastructure, software, hardware and services.

The Fund will invest at least 25% of its total assets in companies in one or more of the media, telecommunications, technology and/or Internet industries. Because of its focus on technology, telecommunications, Internet, services and media companies, the Fund's investment performance will be closely tied to many factors which affect these companies. These factors include intense competition, consumer preferences, problems with product compatibility and government regulation. The Fund's investments may experience significant price movements caused by disproportionate investor optimism or pessimism with little or no basis in fundamental economic conditions. The Fund may also invest in a relatively few number of issuers. As a result, the Fund's net asset value ("NAV") is more likely to have greater fluctuations than that of a fund which is more diversified or invests in other industries.

The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Net Assets in fixed income securities (including high yield fixed income securities), such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations.

The Fund is an actively managed ETF, which is a fund that trades like other publicly traded securities. The Fund is not an index fund and does not seek to replicate the performance of a specified index.

The Investment Adviser measures the Fund's performance against the NASDAQ Composite Total Return Index.

PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUND

**Loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") or any government agency. The Fund should not be relied upon as a complete investment program. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. Investments in the Fund involve substantial risks which prospective investors should consider carefully before investing. The Fund's principal risks are presented below in alphabetical order, and not in the order of importance or potential exposure.** 

**Goldman Sachs (as defined herein) and its affiliates advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives, investment strategies and/or policies similar to those of the Fund, and such accounts and funds will have portfolio holdings that overlap with the Fund. Due to differences in tax management considerations and implementation techniques, trades of the Fund's portfolio are generally executed after those of such accounts and funds. As a result, the Fund's investment results may be higher or lower, and potentially significantly lower, than those of such accounts and funds.** 

***Foreign and Emerging Countries Risk.*** Foreign securities may be subject to risk of loss because of more or less foreign government regulation; less public information; less stringent investor protections; less stringent accounting, corporate governance, financial reporting and disclosure standards; and less economic, political and social stability in the countries in which the Fund invests. The imposition of sanctions, exchange controls (including repatriation restrictions), confiscations, trade restrictions (including tariffs) and other government restrictions by the United States and other governments, or from problems in share registration, settlement or custody, may also result in losses. The type and severity of sanctions and other similar measures, including counter sanctions and other retaliatory actions, that may be imposed could vary broadly in scope, and their impact is impossible to predict. For example, the imposition of sanctions and other similar measures could, among other things, cause a decline in the value and/or liquidity of securities issued by the sanctioned country or companies located in or economically tied to the sanctioned country and increase market volatility and disruption in the sanctioned country and throughout the world. Sanctions and other similar measures could limit or prevent the Fund from buying and selling securities (in the sanctioned country and other markets), significantly delay or prevent the settlement of securities transactions, and significantly impact the Fund's liquidity and performance. Foreign risk also involves the risk of negative foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, which may cause the value of securities denominated in such foreign currency

------

(or other instruments through which the Fund has exposure to foreign currencies) to decline in value. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time. These risks are more pronounced in connection with the Fund's investments in securities of issuers located in, or otherwise economically tied to, emerging countries.

***Industry Concentration Risk.*** The Fund concentrates its investments in specific industry sectors that have historically experienced substantial price volatility. The Fund is subject to greater risk of loss as a result of adverse economic, business, political, environmental or other developments than if its investments were diversified across different industry sectors. Securities of issuers held by the Fund may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable the Fund to sell the securities at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price.

***Investment Style Risk.*** Different investment styles (*e.g.*, "growth", "value" or "quantitative") tend to shift in and out of favor depending upon market and economic conditions and investor sentiment. The Fund may outperform or underperform other funds that invest in similar asset classes but employ different investment styles. Growth investing is an example of an investment style. Growth companies are often expected by investors to increase their earnings at a certain rate. When these expectations are not met, investors can punish the stocks inordinately even if earnings showed an absolute increase.

***Large Shareholder Risk.*** Certain shareholders, including other funds advised by the Investment Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's Shares. In addition, a third party investor, the Investment Adviser or an affiliate of the Investment Adviser, an authorized participant, a lead market maker, or another entity (*i.e.*, a seed investor) may invest in the Fund and hold its investment solely to facilitate commencement of the Fund or to facilitate the Fund's achieving a specified size or scale. Any such investment may be held for a limited period of time. There can be no assurance that any large shareholder would not redeem its investment, that the size of the Fund would be maintained at such levels or that the Fund would continue to meet applicable listing requirements. Redemptions by large shareholders could have a significant negative impact on the Fund, including on the Fund's liquidity. In addition, transactions by large shareholders may account for a large percentage of the trading volume on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC ("NASDAQ") and may, therefore, have a material upward or downward effect on the market price of the Shares.

***Market Risk.*** The value of the securities in which the Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies, particular sectors, governments or countries and/or general economic conditions throughout the world due to increasingly interconnected global economies and financial markets. Events such as war, military conflict, geopolitical disputes, acts of terrorism, social or political unrest, natural disasters, recessions, inflation, rapid interest rate changes, supply chain disruptions, tariffs and other restrictions on trade, sanctions or the spread of infectious illness or other public health threats, or the threat or potential of one or more such events and developments, could also significantly impact the Fund and its investments.

***Market Trading Risk.*** The NAV of the Fund and the value of your investment may fluctuate. Market prices of Shares may fluctuate, in some cases significantly, in response to the Fund's NAV, the intraday value of the Fund's holdings and supply and demand for Shares. The Fund faces numerous market trading risks, including disruptions to creations and redemptions, the existence of extreme market volatility or potential lack of an active trading market for Shares. Any of these factors, among others, may result in Shares trading at a significant premium or discount to NAV, which will be reflected in the intraday bid/ask spreads and/or the closing price of Shares as compared to NAV. In addition, because liquidity in certain underlying securities may fluctuate, Shares may trade at a larger premium or discount to NAV than shares of other kinds of ETFs. If a shareholder purchases Shares at a time when the market price is at a premium to the NAV or sells Shares at a time when the market price is at a discount to the NAV, the shareholder may pay more for, or receive less than, the underlying value of the Shares, respectively. Additionally, in stressed market conditions, the market for Shares may become less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings.

The securities held by the Fund may be traded in markets that close at a different time than the stock exchange on which the Fund's Shares are listed. Liquidity in those securities may be reduced after the applicable closing times. Accordingly, during the time when the Fund's listing exchange is open but after the applicable market closing, fixing or settlement times, bid-ask spreads and the resulting premium or discount to the Shares' NAV may widen.

***Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Risk.*** Investments in mid-capitalization and small-capitalization companies involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more established companies. These securities may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements and may lack sufficient market liquidity, and these issuers often face greater business risks.

***Stock Risk.*** Stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. U.S. and foreign stock markets have experienced periods of substantial price volatility in the past and may do so again in the future.

***Technology Sector Risk.*** The stock prices of technology and technology-related companies and therefore the value of the Fund may experience significant price movements as a result of intense market volatility, worldwide competition, consumer preferences, product compatibility, product obsolescence, government regulation, excessive investor optimism or pessimism, or other factors. The Fund may also invest in a relatively few number of issuers. Thus, the Fund may be more susceptible to adverse developments affecting any single issuer held in its portfolio and may be more susceptible to greater losses because of these developments.

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***Valuation Risk.*** The sale price the Fund could receive for a security may differ from the Fund's valuation of the security, particularly for securities that trade in low volume or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair value methodology. Because non-U.S. exchanges may be open on days when the Fund does not price its Shares, the value of foreign securities or assets in the Fund's portfolio may change on days when investors will not be able to purchase or sell the Fund's shares. The Fund relies on various sources to calculate its NAV. The information may be provided by third parties that are believed to be reliable, but the information may not be accurate due to errors by such pricing sources, technological issues or otherwise. NAV calculation may also be impacted by operational risks arising from factors such as failures in systems and technology.

PERFORMANCE

The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund. It is currently contemplated that before the Fund commences operations, the assets of another investment company advised by the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund (the "predecessor fund"), will be transferred to the Fund in a tax-free reorganization. It is currently contemplated that the reorganization take place upon the close of business on December [5], 2025. The Fund and the predecessor fund have identical investment objectives and fundamental investment policies and have substantially similar investment strategies. The performance of the predecessor fund has not been restated to reflect the annual operating expenses of the Fund, which are lower than those of the predecessor fund. Because the Fund has different fees and expenses than the predecessor fund, the Fund would also have had different performance results.

The bar chart and table show: (a) changes in the performance of the Fund's Shares (represented by the performance of the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares) from year to year; and (b) how the average annual total returns of the Fund (represented by the average annual total returns of the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares) compare to those of a broad-based securities market index (Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index) (the "Regulatory Benchmark") and the NASDAQ Composite Total Return Index (the "Performance Benchmark"). The Performance Benchmark is generally more representative of the market sectors and/or types of investments in which the Fund invests or to which the Fund has exposure and which the Investment Adviser uses to measure the Fund's performance. The Fund has included in the table below the performance of the Regulatory Benchmark, which represents a broader measure of market performance, to comply with regulatory requirements. For additional information about these benchmark indices, please see "Additional Benchmark Information" on page 23 of the Prospectus. The Fund's (and the predecessor fund's) past performance, before and after taxes, is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available at no cost at am.gs.com or by calling the appropriate phone number on the back cover of the Prospectus.

Performance reflects applicable fee waivers and/or expense limitations in effect during the periods shown.

**<u>CALENDAR YEAR (INSTITUTIONAL)</u>** ![LOGO](g941167g25s90.jpg)

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Returns** | **Quarter ended** |
|  Year-to-Date Return | 19.12% | September 30, 2024 |
| **During the periods shown in the chart above:** | **Returns** | **Quarter ended** |
|  Best Quarter Return | 30.68% | June 30, 2020 |
|  Worst Quarter Return | –24.24% | June 30, 2022 |

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AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **For the period ended December 31, 2024** | **1 Year** | **5 Years** | **10 Years** | **Inception<br>Date** |
|  **Institutional Shares** |  |  |  | 10/1/1999 |
|  Returns Before Taxes | 30.61% | 17.42% | 17.59% |  |
|  Returns After Taxes on Distributions | 29.62% | 15.03% | 14.96% |  |
|  Returns After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | 18.87% | 13.42% | 13.87% |  |
|  NASDAQ Composite Total Return Index | 29.48% | 17.47% | 16.19% |  |
|  Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index | 24.44% | 14.26% | 12.86% |  |

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The after-tax returns for Institutional Shares will vary. After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. In addition, the after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares through tax-deferred arrangements such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.

PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT

Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. is the investment adviser for the Fund.

*Portfolio Managers:* Sung Cho, CFA, Managing Director; Charles "Brook" Dane, CFA, Managing Director; and Raj Garigipati, Managing Director, have managed the Fund since 2025. Messrs. Cho and Dane were the predecessor fund's portfolio managers since 2018.

BUYING AND SELLING FUND SHARES

Individual Shares of the Fund may only be purchased and sold in secondary market transactions through a broker or dealer at market price. Because Shares trade at market prices, rather than NAV, Shares of the Fund may trade at a price greater than NAV (*i.e.*, a premium) or less than NAV (*i.e.*, a discount).

You may incur costs attributable to the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to pay for Shares (bid) and the lowest price a seller is willing to accept for Shares (ask) (the "bid-ask spread") when buying or selling Shares in the secondary market.

Recent information, including information about the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads (when available), is included on the Fund's website at am.gs.com.

TAX INFORMATION

For important tax information, please see "Tax Information" on page 18 of the Prospectus.

PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

For important information about financial intermediary compensation, please see "Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries" on page 18 of the Prospectus.

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![LOGO](g941167gsamhorizlogo.jpg)

**Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF—Summary** 

**Ticker: GVLE Stock Exchange: The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC** 

INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE

The Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF (the "Fund") seeks long-term capital appreciation.

FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND

This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy, hold and sell Shares of the Fund. **You may pay other fees, such as brokerage commissions and other fees to financial intermediaries, which are not reflected in the table and Example below.**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  **Annual Fund Operating Expenses** |  |
| **(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)** |  |
|  Management Fee | 0.45% |
|  Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fee | 0.00% |
|  Other Expenses<sup>1</sup> | 0.00% |
|  **Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses** | 0.45% |

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*The Fund's "Other Expenses" have been estimated to reflect expenses expected to be incurred during the current fiscal year.* 

EXPENSE EXAMPLE

This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of owning Shares of the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then sell all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **1 Year** | **3 Years** |
| **$46** | **$144** |

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PORTFOLIO TURNOVER

The Fund may pay transaction costs when it buys and sells securities or instruments (*i.e.*, "turns over" its portfolio). A high rate of portfolio turnover may result in increased transaction costs, including brokerage commissions, which must be borne by the Fund and its shareholders, and is also likely to result in higher short-term capital gains for taxable shareholders. These costs are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the expense example above, but are reflected in the Fund's performance. The Fund's portfolio turnover rate for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024 was 85% of the average value of its portfolio. The portfolio turnover rate shown is that of the predecessor fund (as defined below).

PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its net assets plus any borrowings for investment purposes (measured at the time of purchase) ("Net Assets") in a portfolio of equity securities. Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal circumstances, in companies that are considered value opportunities, which Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. ("GSAM" or the "Investment Adviser") defines as quality companies with identifiable competitive advantages, and sustainable growth potential, whose intrinsic value is not reflected in the stock price. The Fund may invest in securities of companies of any capitalization. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 20% of its Net Assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries") and securities quoted in foreign currencies.

The Fund's equity investment process involves: (1) using multiple industry-specific valuation metrics to identify economic value and company potential in stocks, screened by valuation, profitability and business characteristics; (2) conducting in-depth company research and assessing overall business quality; and (3) buying those securities that a sector portfolio manager recommends, taking into account feedback from the rest of the portfolio management team. No one factor or consideration is determinative in the stock selection process. The Investment Adviser may decide to sell a position for various reasons, including valuation and price considerations, readjustment of the Investment Adviser's outlook based on subsequent events, the Investment Adviser's ongoing assessment

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of the quality and effectiveness of management, if new investment ideas offer the potential for better risk/reward profiles than existing holdings, or for risk management purposes.

The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Net Assets in fixed income securities (including high yield fixed income securities), such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations.

THE FUND IS NON-DIVERSIFIED UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940, AS AMENDED ("INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT"), AND MAY INVEST A LARGER PERCENTAGE OF ITS ASSETS IN ONE OR MORE ISSUERS OR IN FEWER ISSUERS THAN DIVERSIFIED FUNDS.

The Fund is an actively managed ETF, which is a fund that trades like other publicly traded securities. The Fund is not an index fund and does not seek to replicate the performance of a specified index.

The Investment Adviser measures the Fund's performance against the Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Value Index.

PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUND

**Loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") or any government agency. The Fund should not be relied upon as a complete investment program. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. Investments in the Fund involve substantial risks which prospective investors should consider carefully before investing. The Fund's principal risks are presented below in alphabetical order, and not in the order of importance or potential exposure.** 

**Goldman Sachs (as defined herein) and its affiliates advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives, investment strategies and/or policies similar to those of the Fund, and such accounts and funds will have portfolio holdings that overlap with the Fund. Due to differences in tax management considerations and implementation techniques, trades of the Fund's portfolio are generally executed after those of such accounts and funds. As a result, the Fund's investment results may be higher or lower, and potentially significantly lower, than those of such accounts and funds.** 

***Foreign and Emerging Countries Risk.*** Foreign securities may be subject to risk of loss because of more or less foreign government regulation; less public information; less stringent investor protections; less stringent accounting, corporate governance, financial reporting and disclosure standards; and less economic, political and social stability in the countries in which the Fund invests. The imposition of sanctions, exchange controls (including repatriation restrictions), confiscations, trade restrictions (including tariffs) and other government restrictions by the United States and other governments, or from problems in share registration, settlement or custody, may also result in losses. The type and severity of sanctions and other similar measures, including counter sanctions and other retaliatory actions, that may be imposed could vary broadly in scope, and their impact is impossible to predict. For example, the imposition of sanctions and other similar measures could, among other things, cause a decline in the value and/or liquidity of securities issued by the sanctioned country or companies located in or economically tied to the sanctioned country and increase market volatility and disruption in the sanctioned country and throughout the world. Sanctions and other similar measures could limit or prevent the Fund from buying and selling securities (in the sanctioned country and other markets), significantly delay or prevent the settlement of securities transactions, and significantly impact the Fund's liquidity and performance. Foreign risk also involves the risk of negative foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, which may cause the value of securities denominated in such foreign currency (or other instruments through which the Fund has exposure to foreign currencies) to decline in value. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time. These risks are more pronounced in connection with the Fund's investments in securities of issuers located in, or otherwise economically tied to, emerging countries.

***Investment Style Risk.*** Different investment styles (*e.g.*, "growth", "value" or "quantitative") tend to shift in and out of favor depending upon market and economic conditions and investor sentiment. The Fund may outperform or underperform other funds that invest in similar asset classes but employ different investment styles. Value investing is an example of an investment style. Value stocks are those believed to be undervalued in comparison to their peers, due to market, company-specific or other factors.

***Large Shareholder Risk.*** Certain shareholders, including other funds advised by the Investment Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's Shares. In addition, a third party investor, the Investment Adviser or an affiliate of the Investment Adviser, an authorized participant, a lead market maker, or another entity (*i.e.*, a seed investor) may invest in the Fund and hold its investment solely to facilitate commencement of the Fund or to facilitate the Fund's achieving a specified size or scale. Any such investment may be held for a limited period of time. There can be no assurance that any large shareholder would not redeem its investment, that the size of the Fund would be maintained at such levels or that the Fund would continue to meet applicable listing requirements. Redemptions by large shareholders could have a significant negative impact on the Fund, including on the Fund's liquidity. In addition, transactions by large shareholders may account for a large percentage of the trading volume on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC ("NASDAQ") and may, therefore, have a material upward or downward effect on the market price of the Shares.

***Market Risk.*** The value of the securities in which the Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies, particular sectors, governments or countries and/or general economic conditions throughout the world due to increasingly

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interconnected global economies and financial markets. Events such as war, military conflict, geopolitical disputes, acts of terrorism, social or political unrest, natural disasters, recessions, inflation, rapid interest rate changes, supply chain disruptions, tariffs and other restrictions on trade, sanctions or the spread of infectious illness or other public health threats, or the threat or potential of one or more such events and developments, could also significantly impact the Fund and its investments.

***Market Trading Risk.*** The net asset value ("NAV") of the Fund and the value of your investment may fluctuate. Market prices of Shares may fluctuate, in some cases significantly, in response to the Fund's NAV, the intraday value of the Fund's holdings and supply and demand for Shares. The Fund faces numerous market trading risks, including disruptions to creations and redemptions, the existence of extreme market volatility or potential lack of an active trading market for Shares. Any of these factors, among others, may result in Shares trading at a significant premium or discount to NAV, which will be reflected in the intraday bid/ask spreads and/or the closing price of Shares as compared to NAV. If a shareholder purchases Shares at a time when the market price is at a premium to the NAV or sells Shares at a time when the market price is at a discount to the NAV, the shareholder may pay more for, or receive less than, the underlying value of the Shares, respectively. Additionally, in stressed market conditions, the market for Shares may become less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings.

The securities held by the Fund may be traded in markets that close at a different time than the stock exchange on which the Fund's Shares are listed. Liquidity in those securities may be reduced after the applicable closing times. Accordingly, during the time when the Fund's listing exchange is open but after the applicable market closing, fixing or settlement times, bid-ask spreads and the resulting premium or discount to the Shares' NAV may widen.

***Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Risk.*** Investments in mid-capitalization and small-capitalization companies involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more established companies. These securities may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements and may lack sufficient market liquidity, and these issuers often face greater business risks.

***Non-Diversification Risk.*** The Fund is non-diversified, meaning that it is permitted to invest a larger percentage of its assets in one or more issuers or in fewer issuers than diversified funds. Thus, the Fund may be more susceptible to adverse developments affecting any single issuer held in its portfolio, and may be more susceptible to greater losses because of these developments. Under normal circumstances, the Fund intends to invest in approximately 20-40 companies.

***Stock Risk.*** Stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. U.S. and foreign stock markets have experienced periods of substantial price volatility in the past and may do so again in the future.

***Valuation Risk.*** The sale price the Fund could receive for a security may differ from the Fund's valuation of the security, particularly for securities that trade in low volume or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair value methodology. Because non-U.S. exchanges may be open on days when the Fund does not price its Shares, the value of foreign securities or assets in the Fund's portfolio may change on days when investors will not be able to purchase or sell the Fund's Shares. The Fund relies on various sources to calculate its NAV. The information may be provided by third parties that are believed to be reliable, but the information may not be accurate due to errors by such pricing sources, technological issues or otherwise. NAV calculation may also be impacted by operational risks arising from factors such as failures in systems and technology.

PERFORMANCE

The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund. It is currently contemplated that before the Fund commences operations, the assets of another investment company advised by the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund (the "predecessor fund"), will be transferred to the Fund in a tax-free reorganization. It is currently contemplated that the reorganization will take place upon the close of business on November [14], 2025. The Fund and the predecessor fund have identical investment objectives and fundamental investment policies and have substantially similar investment strategies. The performance of the predecessor fund has not been restated to reflect the annual operating expenses of the Fund, which are lower than those of the predecessor fund. Because the Fund has different fees and expenses than the predecessor fund, the Fund would also have had different performance results.

The bar chart and table show: (a) changes in the performance of the Fund's Shares (represented by the performance of the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares) from year to year; and (b) how the average annual total returns of the Fund (represented by the average annual total returns of the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares) compare to those of a broad-based securities market index ((Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index) (the "Regulatory Benchmark") and the Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Value Index (the "Performance Benchmark"). The Performance Benchmark is generally more representative of the market sectors and/or types of investments in which the Fund invests or to which the Fund has exposure and which the Investment Adviser uses to measure the Fund's performance. The Fund has included in the table below the performance of the Regulatory Benchmark, which represents a broader measure of market performance, to comply with new regulatory requirements. For additional information about these benchmark indices, please see "Additional Benchmark Information" on page 23 of the Prospectus. The Fund's (and the predecessor fund's) past performance, before and after taxes, is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available at no cost at am.gs.com or by calling the appropriate phone number on the back cover of the Prospectus.

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Performance reflects applicable fee waivers and/or expense limitations in effect during the periods shown.

**<u>CALENDAR YEAR (INSTITUTIONAL)</u>** ![LOGO](g941167g02a20.jpg)

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Returns** | **Quarter ended** |
|  Year-to-Date Return | 18.37% | September 30, 2024 |
| **During the periods shown in the chart above:** | **Returns** | **Quarter ended** |
|  Best Quarter Return | 16.65% | December 31, 2020 |
|  Worst Quarter Return | –24.12% | March 31, 2020 |

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AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **For the period ended December 31, 2024** | **1 Year** | **5 Years** | **Since<br>Inception** | **Inception<br>Date** |
|  **Institutional Shares** |  |  |  | 7/31/2015 |
|  Returns Before Taxes | 19.09% | 11.99% | 10.10% |  |
|  Returns After Taxes on Distributions | 16.41% | 10.21% | 9.44% |  |
|  Returns After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | 12.85% | 9.09% | 8.49% |  |
|  Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Value Index | 14.33% | 8.67% | 9.04% |  |
|  Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index | 24.44% | 14.26% | 13.27% |  |

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The after-tax returns for Institutional Shares will vary. After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. In addition, the after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares through tax-deferred arrangements such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.

PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT

Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. is the investment adviser for the Fund.

*Portfolio Managers:* Charles "Brook" Dane, Managing Director; Kevin Martens, Vice President; and Raj Garigipati, Managing Director, have managed the Fund since 2025. Messrs. Dane and Martens were the predecessor fund's portfolio managers since 2018 and 2019, respectively.

BUYING AND SELLING FUND SHARES

Individual Shares of the Fund may only be purchased and sold in secondary market transactions through a broker or dealer at market price. Because Shares trade at market prices, rather than NAV, Shares of the Fund may trade at a price greater than NAV (*i.e.*, a premium) or less than NAV (*i.e*., a discount).

You may incur costs attributable to the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to pay for Shares (bid) and the lowest price a seller is willing to accept for Shares (ask) (the "bid-ask spread") when buying or selling Shares in the secondary market.

Recent information, including information about the Fund's NAV, market price, premiums and discounts, and bid-ask spreads (when available), is included on the Fund's website at am.gs.com.

TAX INFORMATION

For important tax information, please see "Tax Information" on page 18 of the Prospectus.

PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

For important information about financial intermediary compensation, please see "Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries" on page 18 of the Prospectus.

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Goldman Sachs Fundamental Equity Active ETFs — Additional Summary Information

TAX INFORMATION

The Funds' distributions are taxable, and will be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Investments made through tax-deferred arrangements may become taxable upon withdrawal from such arrangements.

PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

If you purchase Shares of a Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), GSAM or other related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund Shares or related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend a Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary's website for more information.

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Investment Management Approach

INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE

The Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF, Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF and Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF each seeks long-term growth of capital. The Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF seeks long-term capital appreciation. Each Fund's investment objective may be changed without shareholder approval upon sixty days' notice.

PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF

The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its Net Assets in equity securities issued by small-, mid- and large-cap U.S. companies. A U.S. company is an issuer economically tied to the United States. Shareholders will be provided with sixty days' notice in the manner prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") before any change in the Fund's policy to invest at least 80% of its Net Assets in the particular type of investment suggested by its name.

The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal circumstances, in companies that are considered by the Investment Adviser to be positioned for long-term growth of capital. The Investment Adviser uses a combination of fundamental research and quantitative factors to achieve its investment objective. The Fund's fundamental equity growth investment process involves evaluating potential investments based on specific characteristics believed to identify high-quality businesses with sustainable growth prospects, including strong business franchises, favorable long-term prospects, and excellent management. The Investment Adviser may integrate ESG factors alongside traditional fundamental factors as part of its fundamental research process. No one factor or consideration is determinative in the stock selection process.

Investments will be further evaluated for their exposures to quantitative factors, such as, for example, valuation, profitability and volatility, to seek to enhance the Fund's risk adjusted returns. Risk management, portfolio construction and sizing of positions will be informed by portfolio-level quantitative factor considerations. The Investment Adviser may decide to sell a position for various reasons, including when a company's fundamental outlook deteriorates, because of valuation and price considerations, for risk management purposes, or when a company is deemed to be misallocating capital.

Equity securities include common stocks (including depositary receipts evidencing ownership of common stock), preferred stocks and other preferred securities, convertible securities, rights and warrants, and other securities, such as hybrid securities and trust preferred securities, believed to have equity-like characteristics. Equity securities also include investments in affiliated and unaffiliated investment companies including ETFs that invest in equity securities.

A U.S. company is an issuer economically tied to the United States. In determining whether a company is economically tied to the United States, the Investment Adviser will consider whether the issuer:

⬛ Has a class of securities whose principal securities market is in the United States;

⬛ Has its principal office in the United States;

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | Derives 50% or more of its total revenue or profit from goods produced, sales made or services provided in the United States;  |

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | Maintains 50% or more of its assets in the United States; or  |

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⬛ Is otherwise determined to be economically tied to the United States by the Investment Adviser in its discretion.

For example, the Investment Adviser may use the classifications assigned by third parties, including an issuer's "country of risk" as determined by Bloomberg or the classifications assigned to an issuer by the Fund's benchmark index provider. These classifications are generally based on a number of criteria, including an issuer's country of domicile, the primary stock exchange on which an issuer's securities trade, the location from which the majority of an issuer's revenue is derived, and an issuer's reporting currency. Although the Investment Adviser may rely on these classifications, it is not required to do so.

Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 20% of its Net Assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. The Fund may also invest in privately held companies and companies that only recently began to trade publicly.

The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Net Assets in fixed income securities (including high yield fixed income securities), such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations.

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The Investment Adviser measures the Fund's performance against the S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index. The S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index is the Standard & Poor's 500 Composite index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. It is not possible to invest directly in an unmanaged index.

Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF

The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its Net Assets in equity securities. Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 20% of its Net Assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Shareholders will be provided with sixty days' notice in the manner prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") before any change in the Fund's policy to invest at least 80% of its Net Assets in the particular type of investment suggested by its name.

The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal circumstances, in companies that are considered by the Investment Adviser to be positioned for long-term growth. The Fund's fundamental equity growth investment process involves evaluating potential investments based on specific characteristics believed to indicate a high-quality business with sustainable growth, including strong business franchises, favorable long-term prospects, and excellent management. The Investment Adviser will also consider valuation of companies when determining whether to buy and/or sell securities. The Investment Adviser may ESG factors alongside traditional fundamental factors as part of its fundamental research process. No one factor or consideration is determinative in the stock selection process. The Investment Adviser may decide to sell a position for various reasons, including when a company's fundamental outlook deteriorates, because of valuation and price considerations, for risk management purposes, or when a company is deemed to be misallocating capital.

The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Net Assets in fixed income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations.

THE FUND IS "NON-DIVERSIFIED" UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT AND MAY INVEST A LARGER PERCENTAGE OF ITS ASSETS IN FEWER ISSUERS THAN DIVERSIFIED FUNDS.

The Investment Adviser measures the Fund's performance against the Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Growth Index. The Fund's broad-based securities market index is the Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index. The Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Growth Index is an unmanaged market capitalization weighted index of common stock prices that measures the performance of those Russell 1000 companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. The Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index is an unmanaged market capitalization weighted index of the 1000 largest U.S. companies. The Index figures do not reflect any deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. It is not possible to invest directly in an unmanaged index.

Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF

The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its Net Assets in equity investments in technology companies, as described below. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal circumstances, in companies that are considered by the Investment Adviser to benefit from the proliferation of technology. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 20% of its Total Assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. The Fund may also invest in privately held companies and companies that only recently began to trade publicly. Shareholders will be provided with sixty days' notice in the manner prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") before any change in the Fund's policy to invest at least 80% of its Net Assets in the particular type of investment suggested by its name.

The Fund's fundamental equity growth investment process involves evaluating potential investments based on specific characteristics believed to indicate a high-quality business with sustainable growth, including strong business franchises, favorable long-term prospects, and excellent management. The Investment Adviser will also consider valuation of companies when determining whether to buy and/or sell securities. The Investment Adviser may integrate ESG factors alongside traditional fundamental factors as part of its fundamental research process. No one factor or consideration is determinative in the stock selection process. The Investment Adviser may decide to sell a position for various reasons, including when a company's fundamental outlook deteriorates, because of valuation and price considerations, for risk management purposes, or when a company is deemed to be misallocating capital.

The Fund intends to invest a substantial portion of its assets in technology companies. In general, the Investment Adviser defines a technology company as a high-quality technology, services, media or telecommunications company that adopts or uses technology

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INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT APPROACH

to improve its cost structure, revenue opportunities or competitive advantage. The Investment Adviser seeks to identify technology companies that exhibit many of the following characteristics:

⬛ Strong brand name

⬛ Dominant market share

⬛ Recurring revenue streams

⬛ Free cash flow generation

⬛ Long product life cycle

⬛ Enduring competitive advantage

⬛ Excellent management

The Investment Adviser seeks to identify technology companies that are promising growth businesses. These companies may grow revenue by increasing sales volumes, prices, customers and market share. The Internet is an example of a technology that the Investment Adviser believes will drive growth for many technology businesses. The Internet has had, and is expected to continue to have, a significant impact on the global economy, as it changes the way many companies operate. Benefits of the Internet for businesses may include global scalability, acquisition of new clients, new revenue sources and increased efficiencies. Technology companies adopting innovative Internet technologies to improve their business models include providers of infrastructure, software, hardware and services.

The Fund will invest at least 25% of its total assets in companies in one or more of the media, telecommunications, technology and/or Internet industries. Because of its focus on technology, telecommunications, Internet, services and media companies, the Fund's investment performance will be closely tied to many factors which affect these companies. These factors include intense competition, consumer preferences, problems with product compatibility and government regulation. The Fund's investments may experience significant price movements caused by disproportionate investor optimism or pessimism with little or no basis in fundamental economic conditions. The Fund may also invest in a relatively few number of issuers. As a result, the Fund's NAV is more likely to have greater fluctuations than that of a fund which is more diversified or invests in other industries.

The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Net Assets in fixed income securities (including high yield fixed income securities), such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations.

THIS FUND INVESTS IN TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES (AS DESCRIBED ABOVE), AND ITS NAV MAY FLUCTUATE SUBSTANTIALLY OVER TIME. BECAUSE THE FUND CONCENTRATES ITS INVESTMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES, THE FUND'S PERFORMANCE MAY BE SUBSTANTIALLY DIFFERENT FROM THE RETURNS OF THE BROADER STOCK MARKET. PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT AN INDICATION OF FUTURE RETURNS AND, DEPENDING ON THE TIMING OF YOUR INVESTMENT, YOU MAY LOSE MONEY EVEN IF THE FUND'S PAST RETURNS HAVE OUTPERFORMED THE FUND'S BENCHMARK DURING SPECIFIED PERIODS OF TIME.

The Investment Adviser measures the Fund's performance against the NASDAQ Composite Total Return Index. The Fund's broad-based securities market index is the Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index. The NASDAQ Composite Total Return Index is a diverse, market capitalization-weighted index that is made up of over 3,000 stocks listed on the NASDAQ exchange. The Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index is an unmanaged market capitalization weighted index of the 1000 largest U.S. companies. The Index figures do not reflect any deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. It is not possible to invest directly in an unmanaged index.

Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF

The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its Net Assets in a portfolio of equity securities. Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal circumstances, in companies that are considered value opportunities, which the Investment Adviser defines as quality companies with identifiable competitive advantages, and sustainable growth potential, whose intrinsic value is not reflected in the stock price. The Fund may invest in securities of companies of any capitalization. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 20% of its Net Assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Shareholders will be provided with sixty days' notice in the manner prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") before any change in the Fund's policy to invest at least 80% of its Net Assets in the particular type of investment suggested by its name.

The Fund's equity investment process involves: (1) using multiple industry-specific valuation metrics to identify economic value and company potential in stocks, screened by valuation, profitability and business characteristics; (2) conducting in-depth company research and assessing overall business quality; and (3) buying those securities that a sector portfolio manager recommends, taking

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into account feedback from the rest of the portfolio management team. No one factor or consideration is determinative in the stock selection process. The Investment Adviser may decide to sell a position for various reasons, including valuation and price considerations, readjustment of the Investment Adviser's outlook based on subsequent events, the Investment Adviser's ongoing assessment of the quality and effectiveness of management, if new investment ideas offer the potential for better risk/reward profiles than existing holdings, or for risk management purposes.

The Fund may invest up to 10% of its Net Assets in fixed income securities (including high yield fixed income securities), such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations.

THE FUND IS "NON-DIVERSIFIED" UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT AND MAY INVEST A LARGER PERCENTAGE OF ITS ASSETS IN FEWER ISSUERS THAN DIVERSIFIED FUNDS.

The Investment Adviser measures the Fund's performance against the Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Value Index. The Fund's broad-based securities market index is the Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index. The Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Value Index is an unmanaged market capitalization weighted index of the 1,000 largest U.S. companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. The Russell 1000<sup>®</sup> Index is an unmanaged market capitalization weighted index of the 1000 largest U.S. companies. The Index figures do not reflect any deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. It is not possible to invest directly in an unmanaged index.

All Funds

Each Fund is an actively managed ETF, which is a fund that trades like other publicly-traded securities. The Funds are not index funds and do not seek to replicate the performance of a specified index.

The Funds may, from time to time, take temporary defensive positions that are inconsistent with the Funds' principal investment strategies in attempting to respond to adverse market, political or other conditions. For temporary defensive purposes, each Fund may invest up to 100% of its total assets in securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises ("U.S. Government Securities"), commercial paper rated at least A-2 by S&P Global Ratings, P-2 by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") or having a comparable credit rating by another nationally recognized statistical rating organization ("NRSRO") (or, if unrated, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality), certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, repurchase agreements, non-convertible preferred stocks and non-convertible corporate bonds with a remaining maturity of less than one year, exchange-traded funds ("ETFs") and other investment companies and cash items. When a Fund's assets are invested in such instruments, the Fund may not be achieving its investment objective.

GSAM Fundamental Equity Team's Investment Philosophy

GSAM believes that fundamental, bottom-up research combined with a disciplined investment process is essential for seeking to generate attractive performance over the long-term.

The team's investment process for the Funds involves: (1) using multiple industry-specific valuation metrics to identify economic value and company potential in stocks, screened by valuation, profitability and business characteristics; (2) conducting in-depth company research and assessing overall business quality; and (3) buying those securities that a sector portfolio manager recommends, taking into account feedback from the rest of the portfolio management team.

The GSAM Fundamental Equity team employs a fundamental investment process that considers a wide range of factors, and no one factor or consideration is determinative. Traditional fundamental factors that the GSAM Fundamental Equity team may consider include, but are not limited to, cash flows, balance sheet leverage, return on invested capital, industry dynamics, earnings quality and profitability. The GSAM Fundamental Equity team may integrate environmental, social and governance ("ESG") factors alongside traditional fundamental factors as part of its fundamental research process to seek to assess overall business quality and valuation, as well as potential risks. ESG factors that the GSAM Fundamental Equity team may consider include, but are not limited to, carbon intensity and emissions profiles, community impact, governance practices and board structure. The identification of a risk related to an ESG factor will not necessarily exclude a particular security or sector that, in the GSAM Fundamental Equity team's view, is otherwise suitable and attractively priced for investment, and the GSAM Fundamental Equity team may invest in a security or sector without integrating ESG factors or considerations into its fundamental investment process. The relevance of specific traditional fundamental factors and ESG factors to the fundamental investment process varies across asset classes, sectors and strategies. GSAM Fundamental Equity team may utilize data sources provided by third-party vendors and/or engage directly with issuers when assessing the above factors.

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INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT APPROACH

The Investment Adviser may decide to sell a position for various reasons, including valuation and price considerations, readjustment of the Investment Adviser's outlook based on subsequent events, the Investment Adviser's ongoing assessment of the quality and effectiveness of management, if new investment ideas offer the potential for better risk/reward profiles than existing holdings, or for risk management purposes. In addition, the Investment Adviser may sell a position in order to meet shareholder redemptions.

GSAM Value Team's Investment Philosophy:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;***1. Businesses represent compelling value when:***

⬛ Market uncertainty exists.

⬛ Their economic value is not recognized by the market.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;***2. By quality, we mean companies that have:***

⬛ Sustainable operating or competitive advantage.

⬛ Excellent stewardship of capital.

⬛ Capability to earn above their cost of capital.

⬛ Strong or improving balance sheets and cash flow.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;***3. Through intensive, firsthand fundamental research our portfolio managers seek to purchase quality businesses selling at compelling valuations.***

As stakeholders, the Funds have a vested interest in helping the companies in which they invest unlock value by improving corporate practices and being thoughtful stewards of capital. As part of its focus on long-term, active ownership, the Investment Adviser may, in certain circumstances, use proxy voting and engagement as some of the tools available to encourage positive corporate decision making and productive change, where possible.

GSAM Growth Team's Investment Philosophy:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;***1. Invest as if buying the company/business, not simply trading its stock:***

⬛ Understand the business, management, products and competition.

⬛ Perform intensive, hands-on fundamental research.

⬛ Seek businesses with strategic competitive advantages.

⬛ Over the long-term, expect each company's stock price ultimately to track the growth in the value of the business.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;***2. Buy high-quality growth businesses that possess strong business franchises, favorable long-term prospects and excellent management.***

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;***3. Purchase long-term growth companies at attractive valuations, giving the investor the potential to capture returns from above-average growth rates.***

As a stakeholder, each Fund has a vested interest in helping the companies in which it invests unlock value by improving corporate practices and being thoughtful stewards of capital. As part of its focus on long-term, active ownership, the Investment Adviser may, in certain circumstances, use proxy voting and engagement as some of the tools available to encourage positive corporate decision making and productive change, where possible.

GSAM Fundamental Equity Quantitative Team's Investment Philosophy:

For the Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF, the Investment Adviser uses a combination of fundamental research and quantitative factors when determining whether to buy and/or sell securities and, more generally, to construct the Fund's portfolio (*e.g.*, determining the size of positions in certain securities). In addition to fundamental analysis, the Fund's investments will be evaluated for their exposures to quantitative factors such as, for example, valuation, profitability or volatility. For the valuation factor, typical measures may include earnings yield or book-to-price ratios, among others. For the profitability factor, typical measures may include return on equity or cash flow to income, among others. For the volatility factor, typical measures may include average absolute asset returns over a previous period (*e.g.*, six-month period), among others. Factor exposures will be used to evaluate the expected returns characteristics of each individual position, as well as to manage the overall factor-risk exposures at the portfolio level, with the overarching objective to seek to improve the Fund's risk-adjusted returns. Short-term quantitative factors may also be used in the trading process to seek to improve trading cost performance.

GSAM Quantitative Investment Strategies ("QIS") ETF Team's Management Process

In managing the Funds, the Investment Adviser may incorporate tax considerations into its investment process. Specifically, in implementing the GSAM Fundamental Equity Team's security selection, the GSAM QIS ETF Team may employ tax management

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overlay strategies to seek tax efficiency for each Fund and its shareholders. These strategies generally seek to minimize taxable capital gain distributions to shareholders and include:

⬛ Use of a Fund's in-kind redemption mechanism to effect changes to the portfolio

⬛ Offsetting long-term and short-term capital gains with long-term and short-term capital losses and creating loss carryforward positions

There is no guarantee that such tax management overlay strategies will be effective or will materially reduce the amount of taxable capital gains distributed by a Fund to shareholders.

ADDITIONAL BENCHMARK INFORMATION

The below is additional information that relates to the "Performance" section of each Fund's Summary section.

***Note on Benchmarks.*** References in the Prospectus to a Fund's Regulatory or Performance Benchmark (or any other benchmark) are for informational purposes only, and unless otherwise noted, are not an indication of how a particular Fund is managed or a particular Fund's risk characteristics.

OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES

Although each Fund's principal investment strategies are described in the Fund's Summary—Principal Investment Strategies and Investment Management Approach—Principal Investment Strategies sections of the Prospectus, the following tables identify some of the investment techniques that may (but are not required to) be used by a Fund in seeking to achieve its investment objective.

The Funds may be subject to additional limitations on their investments not shown here. The tables also highlight the differences and similarities among the Funds in their use of these techniques and other investment practices and investment securities. Numbers in these tables show allowable usage only; for actual usage, consult the Funds' most recently filed Form N-CSR (when available). For more information about these and other investment practices and securities, see Appendix A.

On each business day, before commencement of trading in Fund Shares on NASDAQ, each Fund will disclose on its website (am.gs.com) the identities and quantities of the portfolio securities and other assets held by the Fund that will form the basis for the Fund's calculation of NAV at the end of the business day. In addition, a description of each Fund's policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Fund's portfolio holdings is available in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information ("SAI").

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INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT APPROACH

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *10* | Percent of total assets (including securities lending collateral) (italic type) |
| 10 | Percent of net assets (excluding borrowings for investment purposes) (roman type) |
| • | No specific percentage limitation on usage;<br>limited only by the objective and strategies of the Fund. |
|  | Not permitted |

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Enhanced<br>U.S. Equity<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Growth<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Technology<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Value<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** |
| Investment Practices |  |  |  |  |
|  Borrowings | *33<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>3</sub>* | *33<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>3</sub>* | *33<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>3</sub>* | *33<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>3</sub>* |
|  Credit, Currency, Index, Interest Rate, Total Return and Mortgage Swaps and Options on Swaps |  |  |  |  |
|  Cross Hedging of Currencies | • |  | • | • |
|  Custodial Receipts and Trust Certificates | • | • | • | • |
|  Equity Swaps | • |  | 15 | • |
|  Foreign Currency Transactions (including forward contracts)\* | • | • | • | • |
|  Futures Contracts and Options and Swaps on Futures Contracts | • | • | • | • |
|  Illiquid Investments\*\* | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
|  Investment Company Securities (including ETFs) | *10* | *10* | *10* | *10* |
|  Options on Foreign Currencies | • | • | • | • |
|  Options | • | • | • | • |
|  Preferred Stock, Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights | • | • | • | • |
|  Repurchase Agreements | • | • | • | • |
|  Securities Lending | *33<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>3</sub>* | *33<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>3</sub>* | *33<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>3</sub>* | *33<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>3</sub>* |
|  Short Sales Against the Box | 25 | 25 | • | 25 |
|  Unseasoned Companies | • | • | • | • |
|  When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments | • | • | • | • |

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 *\** *Limited by the amount the Fund invests in foreign securities.* 

*\*\** *Illiquid investments are any investments that a Fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment.* 

 *<sup>1</sup>* *This percentage limitation does not apply to a Fund's investments in investment companies (including ETFs) where a higher percentage limitation is permitted under the Investment Company Act or rules, regulations or exemptive relief thereunder.* 

 *<sup>2</sup>* *The Funds may purchase and sell call and put options on foreign currencies.* 

 *<sup>3</sup>* *The Funds may sell call and put options and purchase call and put options on securities and other instruments in which the Funds may invest or any index consisting of securities or other instruments in which they may invest.* 

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *10* | Percent of total assets (including securities lending collateral) (italic type) |
| 10 | Percent of net assets (excluding borrowings for investment purposes) (roman type) |
| • | No specific percentage limitation on usage;<br>limited only by the objective and strategies of the Fund. |
|  | Not permitted |

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Enhanced<br>U.S. Equity<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Growth<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Technology<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Value<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** |
| Investment Securities |  |  |  |  |
|  American, European and Global Depositary Receipts | • | • | • | • |
|  Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities*<sup>4</sup>* | • | • | • | • |
|  Bank Obligations*<sup>4</sup>* | • | • | • | • |
|  Convertible Securities*<sup>5</sup>* | • | • | • | • |
|  Corporate Debt Obligations*<sup>4</sup>* | • | • | • | • |
|  Equity Investments | 80+ | *80+* | 80+ | 80+ |
|  Emerging Country Securities*<sup>6</sup>* | 20 | 20 | 20 | 10 |
|  Fixed Income Securities*<sup>7</sup>* | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
|  Foreign Securities*<sup>6</sup>*  | 20 | 20 | 20 | 10 |
|  Initial Public Offerings ("IPOs")? | • | • | • | • |
|  Master Limited Partnerships | • | • | • | • |
|  Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities*<sup>4,8</sup>* | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
|  Pre-IPO Investments (including late stage private equity securities)? | • |  | • | • |
|  Private Investments in Public Equity ("PIPEs") | • | • | • | • |
|  Real Estate Investment Trusts ("REITs") | • | • | • | • |
|  Special Purpose Acquisition Companies ("SPACs") | • | • | • | • |
|  Structured Securities (which may include equity linked notes)*<sup>9</sup>* | • | • | • | • |
|  Temporary Investments | • | • | • | • |
|  U.S. Government Securities*<sup>4</sup>* | • | • | • | • |

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*<sup>4</sup>* *Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed income securities.* 

*<sup>5</sup>* *All Funds use the same rating criteria for convertible and non-convertible debt securities. <sup></sup>*

*<sup>6</sup>* *Each Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 20% of its net assets in foreign securities, including emerging country securities.* 

*<sup>7</sup>* *Except as noted under "Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities," fixed income securities must be investment grade (i.e., BBB– or higher by Standard & Poor's, Baa3 or higher by Moody's or have a comparable credit rating by another NRSRO or, if unrated, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality).* 

*<sup>8</sup>* *May be BB+ or lower by Standard & Poor's, Ba1 or lower by Moody's or have a comparable credit rating by another NRSRO at the time of investment. <sup></sup>*

*<sup>9</sup>* *Structured securities are not subject to the same minimum credit quality requirements as a Fund's investments in fixed income securities.* 

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Risks of the Funds

Loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund (which, for the remainder of this Prospectus, refers to one or more of the Funds offered in this Prospectus). An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other governmental agency. The principal risks of the Fund are discussed in the Summary section of the Prospectus. The following section provides additional information on the risks that apply to the Fund, which may result in a loss of your investment. The risks applicable to the Fund are presented below in alphabetical order, and not in the order of importance or potential exposure. The Fund should not be relied upon as a complete investment program. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. Investments in the Fund involve substantial risks which prospective investors should consider carefully before investing.

The Fund is an actively managed ETF, which is a fund that trades like other publicly-traded securities. The Fund is not an index fund and does not seek to replicate the performance of a specified index.

Goldman Sachs and its affiliates advise accounts which have investment objectives, investment strategies and/or policies similar to those of the Fund, and such accounts will have portfolio holdings that overlap with the Fund. Due to differences in tax management considerations and implementation techniques, trades of the Fund's portfolio are generally executed after those of such accounts. As a result, the Fund's investment results may be higher or lower, and potentially significantly lower, than those of such accounts.

The investment results of the Fund may be higher or lower than, and there is no guarantee that the investment results of the Fund will be comparable to, similar funds advised by Goldman Sachs or its affiliates. A new fund or a fund with fewer assets under management may be more significantly affected by purchases and redemptions of its Creation Units than a fund with relatively greater assets under management would be affected by purchases and redemptions of its shares. As compared to a larger fund, a new or smaller fund is more likely to sell a comparatively large portion of its portfolio to meet significant Creation Unit redemptions, or invest a comparatively large amount of cash to facilitate Creation Unit purchases, in each case when the fund otherwise would not seek to do so. Such transactions may cause funds to make investment decisions at inopportune times or prices or miss attractive investment opportunities. Such transactions may also accelerate the realization of taxable income if sales of securities resulted in gains and the fund redeems Creation Units for cash, or otherwise cause a fund to perform differently than intended. While such risks may apply to funds of any size, such risks are heightened in funds with fewer assets under management. In addition, new funds may not be able to

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fully implement their investment strategy immediately upon commencing investment operations, which could reduce investment performance.

✓ Principal Risk <br> • Additional Risk

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Enhanced<br>U.S. Equity<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs**<br> **Growth<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Technology<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs**<br> **Value<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** |
|  Absence of Active Market | • | • | • | • |
|  Authorized Participant Concentration | • | • | • | • |
|  Credit/Default | • | • | • | • |
|  Cybersecurity | • | • | • | • |
|  Derivatives | • | • | • | • |
|  Emerging Countries | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|  ESG Integration | • | • | • | • |
|  Foreign | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|  Geographic | • | • | • | • |
|  Industry Concentration |  |  | ✓ |  |
|  Initial Public Offering ("IPO") | • | • | • | • |
|  Interest Rate | • | • | • | • |
|  Investment Style | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|  Large Shareholder | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|  Liquidity | • | • | • | • |
|  Management | • | • | • | • |
|  Market | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|  Market Trading | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|  Master Limited Partnerships | • | • | • | • |
|  Mid-Cap and Small-Cap | ✓ | • | ✓ | ✓ |
|  Non-Diversification |  | ✓ |  | ✓ |
|  Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities | • | • | • | • |
|  Pre-IPO Investments | • |  | • |  |
|  Private Investments in Public Equity | • | • | • | • |
|  REIT |  |  |  | • |
|  Secondary Listing | • | • | • | • |
|  Sector |  | ✓ |  |  |
|  Special Purpose Acquisition Companies | • | • | • | • |
|  Stock | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|  Technology Sector |  |  | ✓ |  |
|  Trading Issues | • | • | • | • |
|  U.S. Government Securities | • | • | • | • |
|  Valuation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | ***Absence of Active Market Risk***—There can be no assurance that active trading markets for the Shares will develop or be maintained by market makers or authorized participants, and there are no obligations of market makers to make a market in the Fund's Shares or of authorized participants to submit purchase or redemption orders for Creation Units. ALPS Distributors, Inc., the distributor of the Shares (the "Distributor"), does not maintain a secondary market in the Shares.  |

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Although market makers will generally take advantage of differences between the NAV and the trading price of Fund Shares through arbitrage opportunities, there is no guarantee that they will do so. Decisions by market makers or authorized participants to reduce their role or "step away" from market making or creation/redemption activities in times of market stress could inhibit the effectiveness of the arbitrage process in maintaining the relationship between the underlying value of the Fund's portfolio securities and the Fund's market price. This reduced effectiveness could result in Shares trading at a discount to NAV and also in

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RISKS OF THE FUNDS

greater than normal intraday bid/ask spreads for Shares. Market makers and authorized participants may be less willing to create or redeem Fund Shares if there is a lack of an active market for the Shares or its underlying investments, which may also contribute to the Fund's Shares trading at a premium or discount to NAV.

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | ***Authorized Participant Concentration Risk***—Only an authorized participant may engage in creation or redemption transactions directly with the Fund, and the Fund may have a limited number of financial institutions that act as authorized participants. None of those authorized participants is obligated to engage in creation and/or redemption transactions. To the extent that the securities underlying the Fund are traded outside of a collateralized settlement system, authorized participants may be required to post collateral on certain trades on an agency basis, which only a limited number of authorized participants may be willing or able to do. To the extent that the Fund's authorized participants exit the business or are unable to or choose not to process creation and/or redemption orders, and no other authorized participant is able to step forward to create and redeem Shares, there may be a significantly diminished trading market for Shares. As a result, Shares may trade at a discount (or premium) to NAV and possibly face trading halts and/or de-listing. Authorized Participant concentration risk may be heightened to the extent the Fund invests in securities issued by non-U.S. issuers or other securities or instruments that have lower trading volumes.  |

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | ***Credit/Default Risk***—An issuer or guarantor of fixed income securities or instruments held by the Fund (which may have low credit ratings) may default on its obligation to pay interest and repay principal or default on any other obligation. The credit quality of the Fund's portfolio securities or instruments may meet the Fund's credit quality requirements at the time of purchase but then deteriorate thereafter, and such a deterioration can occur rapidly. In certain instances, the downgrading or default of a single holding or guarantor of the Fund's holdings may impair the Fund's liquidity and have the potential to cause significant NAV deterioration. These risks are heightened in market environments where interest rates are rising as well as in connection with the Fund's investments in non-investment grade fixed-income securities.  |

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | ***Cybersecurity Risk***—The Fund may be susceptible to operational and information security risks resulting from cyber-attacks. Cyber-attacks include, among others, stealing or corrupting confidential information and other data that is maintained online or digitally for financial gain, denial-of-service attacks on websites causing operational disruption, and the unauthorized release of confidential information and other data. Cyber-attacks have the ability to cause significant disruptions and impact business operations; to result in financial losses; to prevent shareholders from transacting business; to interfere with the Fund's calculation of NAV; and to lead to violations of applicable privacy and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensation costs and/or additional compliance costs. Cyber-attacks affecting the Fund or its Investment Adviser, custodian, Transfer Agent, or other third-party service providers may adversely impact the Fund and its shareholders.  |

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | ***Derivatives Risk***—The Fund's use of options, futures, forwards, swaps, options on swaps, structured securities and other derivatives and similar instruments (collectively referred to in this paragraph as "derivatives") may result in losses, including due to adverse market movements. Derivatives, which may pose risks in addition to and greater than those associated with investing directly in securities, currencies or other assets and instruments, may increase market exposure and be illiquid or less liquid, volatile, difficult to price and leveraged so that small changes in the value of the underlying assets or instruments may produce disproportionate losses to the Fund. Certain derivatives are also subject to counterparty risk, which is the risk that the other party in the transaction will not fulfill, or lacks the capacity or authority to fulfill, its contractual obligations, liquidity risk, which includes the risk that the Fund will not be able to close its derivatives position when it is advantageous to do so, and risks arising from margin requirements, which include the risk that the Fund will be required to pay additional margin or set aside additional collateral to maintain open derivative positions. Derivatives may be used for both hedging and non-hedging purposes.  |

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The use of derivatives is a highly specialized activity that involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with investments in more traditional securities and instruments, and there is no guarantee that the use of derivatives will achieve their intended result. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of the timing or level of fluctuation in securities prices, interest rates, currency prices or other variables, the use of derivatives could result in losses, which in some cases may be significant. A lack of correlation between changes in the value of derivatives and the value of the portfolio assets (if any) being hedged could also result in losses. In addition, there is a risk that the performance of the derivatives or other instruments used by the Investment Adviser to replicate the performance of a particular asset class may not accurately track the performance of that asset class.

The use of derivatives is also subject to operational and legal risks. Operational risks generally refer to risks related to potential operational issues, including documentation issues, settlement issues, system failures, inadequate controls, and human error. Legal risks generally refer to risks of loss resulting from insufficient documentation or legality or enforceability of a contract.

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | ***Emerging Countries Risk***—Investments in securities of issuers located in, or otherwise economically tied to, emerging countries are subject to the risks associated with investments in foreign securities. The securities markets of most emerging countries are less liquid, developed and efficient, are subject to greater price volatility, and have smaller market capitalizations. In addition, emerging  |

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markets and frontier countries may have more or less government regulation and generally do not impose as extensive and frequent accounting, auditing, financial and other reporting requirements as the securities markets of more developed countries. As a result, there could be less information available about issuers in emerging and frontier market countries, which could negatively affect the Investment Adviser's ability to evaluate local companies or their potential impact on the Fund's performance. Further, investments in securities of issuers located in certain emerging countries involve the risk of loss resulting from problems in share registration, settlement or custody, substantial economic, political and social disruptions and the imposition of sanctions or exchange controls (including repatriation restrictions). The legal remedies for investors in emerging and frontier markets may be more limited than the remedies available in the U.S., and the ability of U.S. authorities (*e.g.*, SEC and the U.S. Department of Justice) to bring actions against bad actors may be limited. These risks are not normally associated with investments in more developed countries.

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | ***ESG Integration Risk***—The Investment Adviser employs a fundamental investment process that may integrate ESG factors with traditional fundamental factors. The relevance and weightings of specific ESG factors to or within the fundamental investment process varies across asset classes, sectors and strategies and no one factor or consideration is determinative. When integrating ESG factors into the investment process, the Investment Adviser may rely on third-party data that it believes to be reliable, but it does not guarantee the accuracy of such third-party data. ESG information from third-party data providers may be incomplete, inaccurate or unavailable, which may adversely impact the investment process. Moreover, ESG information, whether from an external and/or internal source, is, by nature and in many instances, based on a qualitative and subjective assessment. An element of subjectivity and discretion is therefore inherent to the interpretation and use of ESG data. The process for conducting ESG assessments and implementation of ESG views in client/fund portfolios, including the format and content of such analysis and the tools and/or data used to perform such analysis, may also vary among the Investment Adviser's portfolio management teams. While the Investment Adviser believes that the integration of material ESG factors into the Fund's investment process has the potential to identify financial risks and contribute to the Fund's long-term performance, ESG factors may not be considered for each and every investment decision, and there is no guarantee that the integration of ESG factors will result in better performance. Investors can differ in their views of what constitutes positive or negative ESG characteristics. Moreover, the current lack of common standards may result in different approaches to integrating ESG factors. As a result, the Fund may invest in companies that do not reflect the beliefs and values of any particular investor. The Investment Adviser's approach to ESG integration may evolve and develop over time, both due to a refinement of investment decision-making processes to address ESG factors and risks, and because of legal and regulatory developments.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Foreign Risk***—When the Fund invests in foreign securities, it may be subject to risk of loss not typically associated with U.S. issuers. Loss may result because of more or less foreign government regulation; less public information; less stringent investor protections; less stringent accounting, corporate governance, financial reporting and disclosure standards; less liquid, developed or efficient trading markets; greater volatility; and less economic, political and social stability in the countries in which the Fund invests. Loss may also result from, among other things, deteriorating economic and business conditions in other countries, including the United States, regional and global conflicts, the imposition of sanctions, exchange controls (including repatriation restrictions), foreign taxes, confiscation of assets and property, trade restrictions (including tariffs), expropriations and other government restrictions by the United States and other governments, higher transaction costs, difficulty enforcing contractual obligations or from problems in share registration, settlement or custody. The type and severity of sanctions and other similar measures, including counter sanctions and other retaliatory actions, that may be imposed could vary broadly in scope, and their impact is impossible to predict. These types of measures may include, but are not limited to, banning a sanctioned country from global payment systems that facilitate cross-border payments, restricting the settlement of securities transactions by certain investors, and freezing the assets of particular countries, entities, or persons. The imposition of sanctions and other similar measures could, among other things, cause a decline in the value and/or liquidity of securities issued by the sanctioned country or companies located in or economically tied to the sanctioned country, downgrades in the credit ratings of the sanctioned country or companies located in or economically tied to the sanctioned country, devaluation of the sanctioned country's currency, and increased market volatility and disruption in the sanctioned country and throughout the world. Sanctions and other similar measures could limit or prevent the Fund from buying and selling securities (in the sanctioned country and other markets), significantly delay or prevent the settlement of securities transactions, and significantly impact the Fund's liquidity and performance. The Fund or the Investment Adviser may determine not to invest in, or may limit its overall investment in, a particular issuer, country or geographic region due to, among other things, heightened risks regarding sanctions, repatriation restrictions, confiscation of assets and property, expropriation or nationalization. Geopolitical developments in certain countries in which the Fund may invest have caused, or may in the future cause, significant volatility in financial markets. For example, the United Kingdom ("UK") withdrew from the European Union ("EU") on January 31, 2020 (commonly known as "Brexit"), which has resulted in ongoing market volatility and caused additional market disruption on a global basis. The UK and the EU signed the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement ("TCA"), which is an agreement on the terms governing certain aspects of the EU's and UK's relationship post Brexit.  |

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RISKS OF THE FUNDS

However, under the TCA, many aspects of the EU-UK relationship remain subject to further negotiation. Although the full effects of Brexit are unknown at this time, Brexit may continue to result in fluctuations of exchange rates, increased illiquidity, inflation, and changes in legal and regulatory regimes to which certain of the Fund's assets are subject. These and other geopolitical developments, including ongoing regional armed conflict in Europe, could negatively impact the value of the Fund's investments.

The Fund's investments in foreign securities may also be subject to foreign currency risk, as described above, the risk of negative foreign currency rate fluctuations, which may cause the value of securities denominated in such foreign currency (or other instruments through which the Fund may have exposure to foreign currencies) to decline in value. Foreign risks will normally be greatest when the Fund invests in securities of issuers located in emerging countries. For more information about these risks, see Appendix A.

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| ⬛ | ***Geographic Risk***—If the Fund focuses its investments in securities of issuers located in a particular country or geographic region, the Fund may be subjected, to a greater extent than if its investments were less focused, to the risks of volatile economic cycles and/or conditions and developments that may be particular to that country or region, such as: adverse securities markets; adverse exchange rates; adverse social, political, regulatory, economic, business, environmental or other developments; or natural disasters.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Industry Concentration Risk***— The Fund concentrates its investments in specific industry sectors that have historically experienced substantial price volatility. The Fund is therefore subject to greater risk of loss as a result of adverse economic, business, political, environmental or other developments than if its investments were diversified across different industry sectors. Securities of issuers held by the Fund may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable the Fund to sell the securities at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price.  |

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| ⬛ | ***IPO Risk***—The market value of shares issued in an IPO may fluctuate considerably due to factors such as the absence of a prior public market, unseasoned trading, the small number of shares available for trading and limited information about a company's business model, quality of management, earnings growth potential, and other criteria used to evaluate its investment prospects. The purchase of IPO shares may involve high transaction costs. Investments in IPO shares, which are subject to market risk and liquidity risk, involve greater risks than investments in shares of companies that have traded publicly on an exchange for extended periods of time.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Interest Rate Risk***—When interest rates increase, fixed income securities or instruments held by the Fund (which may include inflation protected securities) will generally decline in value. Long-term fixed income securities or instruments will normally have more price volatility because of this risk than short-term fixed income securities or instruments. A wide variety of market factors can cause interest rates to rise, including central bank monetary policy, rising inflation and changes in general economic conditions. Changing interest rates may have unpredictable effects on the markets, may result in heightened market volatility and may detract from Fund performance to the extent the Fund is exposed to such interest rates and/or volatility. In addition, changes in monetary policy may exacerbate the risks associated with changing interest rates. Funds with longer average portfolio durations will generally be more sensitive to changes in interest rates than funds with a shorter average portfolio duration. Fluctuations in interest rates may also affect the liquidity of fixed income securities and instruments held by the Fund.  |

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It is difficult to predict the magnitude, timing or direction of interest rate changes and the impact these changes will have on the markets in which the Fund invests.

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| ⬛ | ***Investment Style Risk***—Different investment styles (*e.g*., "growth," "value" or "quantitative") tend to shift in and out of favor depending upon market and economic conditions and investor sentiment. The Fund may outperform or underperform other funds that invest in similar asset classes but employ different investment styles. Examples of different investment styles include growth and value investing. Growth stocks may be more volatile than other stocks because they are more sensitive to investor perceptions of the issuing company's growth of earnings potential. Growth companies are often expected by investors to increase their earnings at a certain rate. When these expectations are not met, investors can punish the stocks inordinately even if earnings showed an absolute increase. Also, because growth companies usually invest a high portion of earnings in their business, growth stocks may lack the dividends of some value stocks that can cushion stock prices in a falling market. Growth oriented funds will typically underperform when value investing is in favor. Value stocks are those that are undervalued in comparison to their peers due to adverse business developments or other factors. A value stock may decrease in price or fail to increase in price as anticipated if other investors do not eventually recognize the stock's potential value, or if other events or factors that could increase the stock price do not materialize.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Large Shareholder Transactions Risk***—Certain large shareholders, including other funds advised by the Investment Adviser, may from time to time own a substantial amount of the Fund's Shares. In addition, a third party investor, the Investment Adviser or an affiliate of the Investment Adviser, an authorized participant, a lead market maker, or another entity (*i.e.*, a seed investor) may invest in the Fund and hold its investment solely to facilitate commencement of the Fund or to facilitate the Fund's achieving a specified size or scale. Any such investment may be held for a limited period of time. There can be no assurance that any large  |

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shareholder would not redeem its investment. Dispositions of a large number of Shares by these shareholders, which may occur rapidly or unexpectedly, may adversely affect the Fund's liquidity and net assets to the extent such transactions are executed directly with the Fund in the form of redemptions through an authorized participant, rather than executed in the secondary market. To the extent effected in cash, these redemptions may also force the Fund to sell portfolio securities when it might not otherwise do so, which may negatively impact the Fund's NAV and increase the Fund's brokerage costs. Such cash redemptions may also accelerate the realization of taxable income to shareholders, which could make investments in Shares less tax-efficient than an investment in an ETF that is able to effect redemptions in-kind. Similarly, large Fund share purchases through an authorized participant may adversely affect the performance of the Fund to the extent that the Fund is delayed in investing new cash or otherwise maintains a larger cash position than it ordinarily would. To the extent these large shareholders transact in Shares on the secondary market, such transactions may account for a large percentage of the trading volume on the Exchange and may, therefore, have a material upward or downward effect on the market price of the Shares.

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| ⬛ | ***Liquidity Risk***—The Fund may invest in securities or instruments that trade in lower volumes, that are less liquid than other investments and/or that may become illiquid or less liquid in response to market developments or adverse investor perceptions. Investments that are illiquid or that trade in lower volumes may be more difficult to value. When there is no willing buyer and investments cannot be readily sold at the desired time or price, the Fund may have to accept a lower price or may not be able to sell the security or instrument at all. An inability to sell one or more portfolio positions can adversely affect the Fund's value or prevent the Fund from being able to take advantage of other investment opportunities.  |

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Illiquidity can be caused by a drop in overall market trading volume, an inability to find a willing buyer, or legal restrictions on the securities' resale. To the extent that the traditional dealer counterparties that engage in fixed income trading do not maintain inventories of bonds (which provide an important indication of their ability to "make markets") that keep pace with the growth of the bond markets over time, relatively low levels of dealer inventories could lead to decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the fixed income markets. Additionally, market participants other than the Fund may attempt to sell fixed income holdings at the same time as the Fund, which could cause downward pricing pressure and contribute to decreased liquidity.

Liquidity risk may also refer to the risk that the Fund will not be able to pay redemption proceeds within the allowable time period stated in its Prospectus or without significant dilution to remaining investors' interests because of unusual market conditions, declining prices of the securities sold, an unusually high volume of redemption requests or other reasons. While the Fund reserves the right to meet redemption requests through in-kind distributions, the Fund may instead choose to raise cash to meet redemption requests through sales of portfolio securities or permissible borrowings. If the Fund is forced to sell investments at an unfavorable time and/or under unfavorable conditions, such sales may adversely affect the Fund's NAV and dilute remaining investors' interests.

Because the Fund may invest in non-investment grade fixed income securities, small- and mid-capitalization stocks, REITs and/or emerging country issuers, and/or emerging country issuers, the Fund may be especially subject to the risk that during certain periods, the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities within a particular investment category, may shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political events (including periods of rapid interest rate changes), or adverse investor perceptions, whether or not accurate.

Certain shareholders, including clients or affiliates of the Investment Adviser and/or other funds managed by the Investment Adviser, may from time to time own or control a significant percentage of the Fund's shares. Redemptions by these shareholders of their shares of the Fund (including redemptions executed directly with the Fund in the form of redemptions through an authorized participant) may further increase the Fund's liquidity risk and may impact the Fund's NAV. These shareholders may include, for example, institutional investors, funds of funds, discretionary advisory clients, certain participating insurance companies, accounts or Goldman Sachs affiliates and other shareholders, whose buy-sell decisions are controlled by a single decision-maker.

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| ⬛ | ***Management Risk***—A strategy used by the Investment Adviser may fail to produce the intended results.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Market Risk***—The value of the securities in which the Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies, particular sectors, governments or countries and/or general economic conditions throughout the world. Price changes may be temporary or last for extended periods. The Fund's investments may be overweighted from time to time in one or more sectors, countries or regions, which will increase the Fund's exposure to risk of loss from adverse developments affecting those sectors, countries or regions.  |

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Global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, and conditions and events in one country, region or financial market may adversely impact issuers in a different country, region or financial market. Furthermore, local, regional and global events such as war, military conflict, geopolitical disputes, acts of terrorism, social or political unrest, natural disasters, recessions, inflation, rapid interest rate changes, supply chain disruptions, tariffs and other restrictions on trade, sanctions

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RISKS OF THE FUNDS

or, the spread of infectious illness or other public health threats, or the threat or potential of one or more such events and developments, could also adversely impact issuers, markets and economies, including in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen. The Fund could be negatively impacted if the value of a portfolio holding were harmed by such political or economic conditions or events. In addition, governmental and quasi-governmental organizations have taken a number of unprecedented actions designed to support the markets. Such conditions, events and actions may result in greater market risk.

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| ⬛ | ***Market Trading Risk***—The NAV of the Fund and the value of your investment may fluctuate. Market prices of Shares may fluctuate, in some cases significantly, in response to the Fund's NAV, the intraday value of the Fund's holdings and supply and demand for Shares. The Fund faces numerous market trading risks, including disruptions to creations and redemptions, the existence of extreme market volatility or potential lack of an active trading market for Shares. If a shareholder purchases Shares at a time when the market price is at a premium to the NAV or sells Shares at a time when the market price is at a discount to the NAV, the shareholder may pay more for, or receive less than, the underlying value of the Shares, respectively. The Investment Adviser cannot predict whether Shares will trade below, at or above their NAV. Price differences may be due, in large part, to the fact that supply and demand forces at work in the secondary trading market for Shares will be closely related to, but not identical to, the same forces influencing the prices of the securities in the Fund's portfolio trading individually or in the aggregate at any point in time. While the creation/redemption feature is designed to make it more likely that the Fund's Shares normally will trade on stock exchanges at prices close to the Fund's next calculated NAV, exchange prices are not expected to correlate exactly with the Fund's NAV due to timing reasons, supply and demand imbalances, perception of unreliability of disclosed NAV, and other factors. Any of these factors, among others, may result in Shares trading at a significant premium or discount to NAV, which will be reflected in the intraday bid/ask spreads and/or the closing price of Shares as compared to NAV. In addition, because liquidity in certain underlying securities may fluctuate, Shares may trade at a larger premium or discount to NAV than Shares of other kinds of ETFs. Additionally, in stressed market conditions, the market for Shares may become less liquid in response to deteriorating liquidity in the markets for the Fund's underlying portfolio holdings. There are various methods by which investors can purchase and sell Shares and various orders that may be placed. Investors should consult their financial intermediary before purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund.  |

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An investor that buys or sells Shares through a broker will likely incur a brokerage commission or other charge imposed by the broker. In addition, the market price of Shares, like other exchange-traded securities, includes a "bid-ask spread" (the difference between the price at which investors are willing to buy Shares and the price at which investors are willing to sell Shares). The bid-ask spread will vary over time based on the Fund's trading volume and market liquidity and may increase as a result of a decrease in the Fund's trading volume, the spread of the Fund's underlying securities, or market liquidity. The bid-ask spread may increase significantly in times of market disruption, meaning that Shares may trade at a discount to the Fund's NAV and that discount is likely to be greatest during significant market volatility. During such periods, you may be unable to sell your Shares or may incur significant losses if you sell your Shares.

Shares of the Fund, like other publicly-traded securities, may be sold short. Shares are therefore subject to the risk of price decreases and increased volatility associated with being sold short.

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| ⬛ | ***Master Limited Partnership Risk***—The Fund's investments in securities of a Master Limited Partnership (an "MLP") involve risks that differ from investments in common stock, including risks related to limited control and limited rights to vote on matters affecting the MLP, risks related to potential conflicts of interest between the MLP and the MLP's general partner, cash flow risks, dilution risks and risks related to the general partner's right to require unit-holders to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price, resulting from regulatory changes or other reasons. Certain MLP securities may trade in lower volumes due to their smaller capitalizations. Accordingly, those MLPs may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements and may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable the Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. Investment in those MLPs may restrict the Fund's ability to take advantage of other investment opportunities. MLPs are generally considered interest-rate sensitive investments. During periods of interest rate volatility, these investments may not provide attractive returns.  |

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To the extent a distribution received by the Fund from an MLP is treated as a return of capital, the Fund's adjusted tax basis in the interests of the MLP may be reduced, which will result in an increase in an amount of income or gain (or decrease in the amount of loss) that will be recognized by the Fund for tax purposes upon the sale of any such interests or upon subsequent distributions in respect of such interests. Furthermore, any return of capital distribution received from the MLP may require the Fund to restate the character of its distributions and amend any shareholder tax reporting previously issued. Moreover, a portion of any gain or loss recognized by the Fund on a disposition of an MLP equity security (or by an MLP on a disposition of an underlying asset) may be separately computed and treated as ordinary income or loss under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), to the extent attributable to assets of the MLP that give rise to depreciation recapture, intangible drilling and development cost recapture, or other "unrealized receivables" or "inventory items" under the Code. Any such gain may exceed net taxable gain realized on the disposition and will be recognized even if there is a net taxable loss on the sale. The Fund's net capital losses may

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only be used to offset capital gains and therefore cannot be used to offset gains that are treated as ordinary income. Thus, the Fund could recognize both gain that is treated as ordinary income and a capital loss on a disposition of an MLP equity security (or on an MLP's disposition of an underlying asset) and would not be able to use the capital loss to offset that gain.

MLPs are generally treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Partnerships do not pay U.S. federal income tax at the partnership level. Rather, each partner is allocated a share of the partnership's income, gains, losses, deductions and expenses. A change in current tax law, or a change in the underlying business mix of a given MLP, could result in an MLP being treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which could result in a reduction of the value of the Fund's investment in the MLP and lower income to the Fund.

Individuals and certain other noncorporate entities are generally eligible for a 20% deduction with respect to taxable income from MLPs through 2025. Currently, there is not a regulatory mechanism for regulated investment companies such as the Fund to pass through the 20% deduction to shareholders. As a result, in comparison, investors investing directly in MLPs would generally be eligible for the 20% deduction for such taxable income from these investments while investors investing in MLPs held indirectly if any through the Fund would not be eligible for the 20% deduction for their share of such taxable income.

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| ⬛ | ***Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Risk***—The securities of mid-capitalization and small-capitalization companies involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more established companies and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements. Securities of such issuers may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable the Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. Both mid-capitalization and small-capitalization companies often have narrower markets and more limited managerial and financial resources than larger, more established companies. As a result, their performance can be more volatile and they face greater risk of business failure, which could increase the volatility of the Fund's portfolio. Generally, the smaller the company size, the greater these risks become.  |

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| ⬛ | ***NAV Risk***—The net asset value of the Fund and the value of your investment will fluctuate.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Non-Diversification Risk***—The Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF and Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF are non-diversified, meaning that they are permitted to invest a larger percentage of its assets in one or more issuers or in fewer issuers than diversified funds. Thus, the Growth Opportunities ETF and Value Opportunities ETF may be more susceptible to adverse developments affecting any single issuer held in each Fund's portfolio, and may be more susceptible to greater losses because of these developments.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities Risk***—Non-investment grade fixed income securities and unrated securities of comparable credit quality (commonly known as "junk bonds") are considered speculative and are subject to the increased risk of an issuer's inability to meet principal and interest payment obligations. These securities may be subject to greater price volatility due to such factors as specific issuer developments, interest rate sensitivity, negative perceptions of the junk bond markets generally and less liquidity.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Pre-IPO Investments Risk***—The Technology Opportunities and Enhanced U.S. Equity ETFs may invest in privately held companies, including companies that may issue shares in IPOs. Investments in pre-IPO shares involve greater risks than investments in shares of companies that have traded publicly on an exchange for extended periods of time. Investments in these companies are less liquid and difficult to value, and there is significantly less information available about these companies' business models, quality of management, earnings growth potential, and other criteria used to evaluate their investment prospects. Although there is a potential the pre-IPO shares that the Technology Opportunities ETF or Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF buys may increase in value if the company does issue shares in an IPO, IPOs are risky and volatile and may cause the value of the Fund's investments to decrease significantly. Moreover, because pre-IPO shares are generally not freely or publicly tradeable, the Technology Opportunities ETF or Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF may not have access to purchase or the ability to sell these shares in the amounts or at the prices the Fund desires. The companies that the Technology Opportunities ETF and Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF anticipate holding successful IPOs may not ever issue shares in an IPO and a liquid market for their shares may never develop, which may negatively affect the price at which the Fund can sell these shares and make it more difficult to sell these shares, which could also adversely affect the Fund's liquidity.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Private Investments in Public Equities Risk***—The Fund may purchase equity securities in a private placement that are issued by issuers who have outstanding, publicly-traded equity securities of the same class ("private investments in public equity" or "PIPEs"). Shares in PIPEs generally are not registered with the SEC until after a certain time period from the date the private sale is completed. This restricted period can last many months. Until the public registration process is completed, PIPEs are restricted as to resale and the Fund cannot freely trade the securities. Generally, such restrictions cause the PIPEs to be illiquid during this time. PIPEs may contain provisions that the issuer will pay specified financial penalties to the holder if the issuer does not publicly register the restricted equity securities within a specified period of time, but there is no assurance that the restricted equity securities will be publicly registered, or that the registration will remain in effect.  |

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RISKS OF THE FUNDS

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| ⬛ | ***REIT Risk***—Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks in addition to those risks associated with investing in the real estate industry in general. REITs whose underlying properties are concentrated in a particular industry or geographic region are also subject to risks affecting such industries and regions. The securities of REITs involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more established companies and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements because of interest rate changes, economic conditions and other factors. For example, the value of these securities may decline when interest rates rise and will also be affected by the real estate market and by the management or development of the underlying properties. The underlying properties may be subject to mortgage loans, which may also be subject to the risks of default. REITs may also fail to qualify for tax free pass-through of income or may fail to maintain their exemptions from investment company registration. Securities of such issuers may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable the Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Secondary Listing Risk***—The Fund's shares may be listed or traded on U.S. and non-U.S. stock exchanges other than the U.S. stock exchange where the Fund's primary listing is maintained. There can be no assurance that the Fund's shares will continue to trade on any such stock exchange or in any market or that the Fund's shares will continue to meet the requirements for listing or trading on any exchange or in any market. The Fund's shares may be less actively traded in certain markets than in others, and investors are subject to the execution and settlement risks and market standards of the market where they or their broker direct their trades for execution. Certain information available to investors who trade Fund shares on a U.S. stock exchange during regular U.S. market hours may not be available to investors who trade in other markets, which may result in secondary market prices in such markets being less efficient. Shares of the Fund may trade in the secondary market outside of the trading hours of the Fund's primary exchange. At such times, shares may trade with more significant premiums or discounts than might be experienced otherwise.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Sector Risk***—To the extent the Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF focuses its investments in securities of issuers in one or more sectors (such as the financial services or telecommunications sectors), the Growth Opportunities ETF will be subject, to a greater extent than if its investments were diversified across different sectors, to the risks of volatile economic cycles and/or conditions and developments that may be particular to that sector, such as: adverse economic, business, political, environmental or other developments.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Special Purpose Acquisition Companies Risk***—The Fund may invest in stock, warrants, and other securities of SPACs. A SPAC is typically a publicly traded company that raises funds through an IPO for the purpose of acquiring or merging with another company to be identified subsequent to the SPAC's IPO. Because SPACs and similar entities are in essence blank check companies without operating history or ongoing business other than seeking acquisitions, the value of their securities is particularly dependent on the ability of the entity's management to identify and complete a profitable acquisition. An investment in a SPAC is subject to a variety of risks, including that (i) prior to any acquisition or merger, a SPAC's assets are typically invested in U.S. government securities, money market funds and similar investments whose returns or yields may be significantly lower than those of the Fund's other investments; (ii) the Fund generally will not receive significant income from its investments in SPACs (both prior to and after any acquisition or merger) and, therefore, the Fund's investments in SPACs will not significantly contribute to the Fund's distributions to shareholders; (iii) attractive acquisition or merger targets may become scarce if the number of SPACs seeking to acquire operating businesses increases; (iv) an attractive acquisition or merger target may not be identified at all, in which case the SPAC will be required to return any remaining monies to shareholders (unless such shareholders approve alternative arrangements), and the Fund may be subject to opportunity costs to the extent that alternative investments would have produced higher returns; (v) if an acquisition or merger target is identified, the Fund may elect not to participate in, or vote to approve, the proposed transaction or the Fund may be required to divest its interests in the SPAC, due to regulatory or other considerations, in which case the Fund may not reap any resulting benefits; (vi) an acquisition or merger once effected may prove unsuccessful and an investment in the SPAC may lose value; (vii) an investment in a SPAC may be diluted by additional, later offerings of securities by the SPAC or by other investors exercising existing rights to purchase securities of the SPAC; (viii) a significant portion of the funds raised by the SPAC may be expended during the search for a target acquisition or merger; (ix) only a thinly traded market for shares of or interests in a SPAC may develop, or there may be no market at all, leaving the Fund unable to sell its interest in a SPAC or to sell its interest only at a lower price; and (x) the values of investments in SPACs may be highly volatile and may depreciate significantly over time. In addition, the Fund may obtain certain private rights and other interests issued by a SPAC (commonly referred to as "founder shares"), which may be subject to forfeiture or expire worthless and which generally have more limited liquidity than SPAC shares issued in an IPO.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Stock Risk***—Stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. U.S. and foreign stock markets have experienced periods of substantial price volatility in the past and may do so again in the future. Stock prices may fluctuate from time to time in response to the activities of individual companies and in response to general market and economic conditions. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments, and the stock prices of such companies may suffer a decline in response.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Technology Sector Risk***—The stock prices of technology and technology-related companies and therefore the value of the Technology Opportunities ETF may experience significant price movements as a result of intense market volatility, worldwide competition, consumer preferences, product compatibility, product obsolescence, government regulation, excessive investor optimism or pessimism, or other factors. Many of the products and services offered by technology companies are subject to the risk of short product cycles. Certain technology-related companies may face special risks that their products or services may not prove to be commercially successful. Such companies also may be subject to risks relating to research and development costs and the availability and price of components. As product cycles shorten and manufacturing capacity increases, these companies could become increasingly subject to aggressive pricing and competition, which hampers profitability. The Technology Opportunities ETF may also invest in a relatively few number of issuers. Thus, the Technology Opportunities ETF may be more susceptible to adverse developments affecting any single issuer held in its portfolio and may be more susceptible to greater losses because of these developments.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Trading Issues Risk***—Trading in ETF Shares on the Exchange may be halted due to market conditions or for reasons that, in the view of the Exchange, make trading in ETF Shares inadvisable. In addition, trading in ETF Shares on the Exchange is subject to trading halts caused by extraordinary market volatility pursuant to the Exchange's "circuit breaker" rules. If a trading halt or unanticipated closing of the Exchange occurs, a shareholder may be unable to purchase or sell ETF Shares. There can be no assurance that the requirements of the Exchange necessary to maintain the listing of the Fund, including the required number of shareholders, will continue to be met or will remain unchanged, which may cause the Fund to be delisted from the Exchange. If the Fund were delisted from the Exchange, the value of the Fund may decline and performance may be negatively impacted. Any resulting liquidation of the Fund may cause the Fund to incur elevated transaction costs and result in negative tax consequences for its shareholders.  |

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| ⬛ | ***U.S. Government Securities Risk***—The U.S. government may not provide financial support to U.S. government agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises if it is not obligated to do so by law. U.S. Government Securities issued by those agencies, instrumentalities, and sponsored enterprises, including those issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae"), Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac") and the Federal Home Loan Banks, are neither issued nor guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury and, therefore, are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States. The maximum potential liability of the issuers of some U.S. Government Securities held by the Fund may greatly exceed their current resources, including any legal right to support from the U.S. Treasury. It is possible that issuers of U.S. Government Securities will not have the funds to meet their payment obligations in the future. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have been operating under conservatorship, with the Federal Housing Finance Agency ("FHFA") acting as their conservator, since September 2008. The entities are dependent upon the continued support of the U.S. Department of the Treasury and FHFA in order to continue their business operations. These factors, among others, could affect the future status and role of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and the value of their securities and the securities which they guarantee. Additionally, the U.S. government and its agencies and instrumentalities do not guarantee the market values of their securities, which may fluctuate.  |

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| ⬛ | ***Valuation Risk***—The sale price the Fund could receive for a security may differ from the Fund's valuation of the security, particularly for securities that trade in low volume or volatile markets or that are valued using a fair value methodology. Because non-U.S. exchanges may be open on days when the Fund does not price its Shares, the value of foreign securities or assets in the Fund's portfolio may change on days when investors will not be able to purchase or sell the Fund's Shares. The Fund relies on various sources to calculate its NAV. The information may be provided by third parties that are believed to be reliable, but the information may not be accurate due to errors by such pricing sources, technological issues or otherwise. NAV calculation may also be impacted by operational risks arising from factors such as failures in systems and technology.  |

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More information about the Fund's portfolio securities and investment techniques, and its associated risks, is provided in Appendix A. You should consider the investment risks discussed in this section and in Appendix A. Both are important to your investment choice.

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Tax Advantaged Product Structure

Unlike many conventional mutual funds which are only bought and sold at closing NAVs, the Shares of the Funds, like Shares of certain other ETFs, have been designed to be redeemed principally in-kind in Creation Units at each day's market close. These in-kind arrangements are designed to mitigate adverse effects on the Fund's portfolio that could arise from frequent cash redemption transactions that affect the NAV of the Fund. Moreover, in contrast to conventional mutual funds, where frequent redemptions can have an adverse tax impact on taxable shareholders because of the need to sell portfolio securities which, in turn, may generate taxable gain, the in-kind redemption mechanism of the Fund, as applicable, to the extent used, generally is not expected to lead to a tax event for shareholders whose Shares are not being redeemed. There is no guarantee that these tax advantages will be realized or will materially reduce the amount of taxable capital gains distributed by the Fund to shareholders.

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Service Providers

INVESTMENT ADVISER

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Investment Adviser** | **Funds** |
|  Goldman Sachs Asset Management L.P. | Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF |
|  200 West Street | Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF |
|  New York, NY 10282 | Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF |
|  | Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF |

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GSAM has been registered as an investment adviser with the SEC since 1990 and is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. and an affiliate of Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC ("Goldman Sachs"). Founded in 1869, The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. is a publicly-held financial holding company and a leading global investment banking, securities and investment management firm. As of [ ], GSAM, including its investment advisory affiliates, had assets under supervision of approximately $[ ] trillion.

The Investment Adviser is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund and places purchase and sale orders for the Fund's portfolio transactions in U.S. and foreign markets. As permitted by applicable law, these orders may be directed to any executing brokers, dealers, futures commission merchants ("FCMs") or other counterparties, including Goldman Sachs and its affiliates. While the Investment Adviser is ultimately responsible for the management of the Fund, it is able to draw upon the research and expertise of its asset management affiliates with respect to managing certain portfolio securities. In addition, the Investment Adviser has access to proprietary tools developed by Goldman Sachs (subject to legal, internal, regulatory and Chinese wall restrictions), and will apply quantitative and qualitative analysis in determining the appropriate allocations among categories of issuers and types of securities.

The Investment Adviser also performs the following additional services for the Fund, to the extent such services are not required to be performed by others pursuant to the fund administration and accounting agreement, the custodian agreement, the transfer agency agreement, distribution agreement or such other agreements with service providers to the Fund that the Board has approved:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | Supervises non-advisory operations of the Fund, including oversight of vendors hired by the Fund, oversight of Fund liquidity and risk management, oversight of regulatory inquiries and requests with respect to the Fund made to the Investment Adviser, valuation and accounting oversight and oversight of ongoing compliance with federal and state securities laws, tax regulations, and other applicable law  |

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⬛ Provides personnel to perform such executive, administrative and clerical services as are reasonably necessary to provide effective administration of the Fund

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | Arranges for: (a) the preparation of all required tax returns, (b) the preparation and submission of reports to existing shareholders, (c) the periodic updating of prospectuses and statements of additional information and (d) the preparation of reports to be filed with the SEC and other regulatory authorities  |

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⬛ Maintains the records of the Fund

⬛ Provides office space and necessary office equipment and services for the Investment Adviser

⬛ Markets the Fund

An investment in the Fund may be negatively impacted because of the operational risks arising from factors such as processing errors and human errors, inadequate or failed internal or external processes, failures in systems and technology, changes in personnel, and errors caused by third-party service providers or trading counterparties. The use of certain investment strategies that involve manual or additional processing, such as over-the-counter derivatives, increases these risks. Although the Fund attempts to minimize such failures through controls and oversight, it is not possible to identify all of the operational risks that may affect the Fund or to develop processes and controls that completely eliminate or mitigate the occurrence of such failures. The Fund and its shareholders could be negatively impacted as a result.

GSAM may manage other funds, accounts, additional pooled vehicles and/or separate accounts that have similar investment strategies to those of the Fund. These funds, pooled vehicles or accounts may perform differently than the Fund despite their similar strategies. Because the pooled vehicles may not be registered under the Investment Company Act, they are subject to fewer regulatory restraints than the Fund (*e.g.*, fewer trading constraints) and may employ strategies that are not subject to the same constraints as the Fund.

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SERVICE PROVIDERS

GSAM and/or its affiliates may make payments to one or more investors that contribute seed capital to the Fund. Such payments may continue for a specified period of time and/or until a specified dollar amount is reached. Those payments will be made from the assets of GSAM and/or such affiliates (and not the Fund). Seed investors may contribute all or a majority of the assets in the Fund. There is a risk that such seed investors may redeem their investments in the Fund. As with redemptions by other large shareholders, such redemptions could have a significant negative impact on the Fund.

From time to time, Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates may purchase and hold Shares of the Fund. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates reserve the right to redeem or sell at any time some or all of the Shares acquired for their own accounts.

MANAGEMENT FEE AND OTHER EXPENSES

Pursuant to the Fund's Management Agreement, as compensation for its services to the Fund, the Investment Adviser is entitled to a management fee, computed daily and payable monthly, at an annual rate listed below (as a percentage of the Fund's average daily net assets). Under the Management Agreement, the Investment Adviser is responsible for substantially all the expenses of the Fund, excluding payments under the Fund's 12b-1 plan (if any), interest expenses, taxes, acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage fees, costs of holding shareholder meetings and litigation, indemnification and extraordinary expenses. The effective management fee of the Fund (based on the management fee of the predecessor funds) for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024 is disclosed below, as well as the management fee payable by the Fund.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Actual Rate**<br> **For the Fiscal**<br> **Year Ended<br>August 31,<br>2024\*** | **Fee as a<br>Percentage of<br>Average Daily<br>Net Assets** |
|  Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | 0.52% | 0.30% |
|  Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF | 0.71% | 0.45% |
|  Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF | 0.85% | 0.65% |
|  Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF | 0.65% | 0.45% |

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*\** *The Actual Rate, which reflects the combined management fees paid to GSAM by a predecessor fund, may not correlate to the Contractual Management Fee Annual Rate of that predecessor fund as a result of management fee waivers that may be in effect from time to time.* 

The Investment Adviser may waive a portion of its management fee, including fees earned as the Investment Adviser to any of the affiliated funds in which the Fund invests, except those management fees it earns from the Fund's investments of cash collateral received in connection with securities lending transactions in affiliated funds, from time to time, and may discontinue or modify any such waivers in the future, consistent with the terms of any fee waiver arrangements that may be in place.

A discussion regarding the basis for the Board of Trustees' approval of the Management Agreement for the Fund will be available in the Fund's first Form N-CSR following its launch.

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FUND MANAGERS

The individuals jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund are listed below. The Fund's portfolio managers' individual responsibilities may differ and may include, among other things, security selection, asset allocation, risk budgeting, selecting the composition of creation and redemption baskets, general oversight of the implementation processes and management of the Fund's portfolio.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name and Title** | **Fund Responsibility** | **Years<br>Primarily<br>Responsible** | **Five Year Employment History** |
|  **Jenny Chang,** <br> **Managing Director** | **Portfolio Manager— Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF** | **Since**<br> **2025** | **Ms. Chang joined the Investment Adviser in 2016. She is a portfolio manager on the Fundamental Equity Team.** |
|  **Sung Cho, CFA,** <br> **Managing Director** | **Portfolio Manager— Growth Opportunities ETF**<br> **Technology Opportunities ETF** | **Since**<br> **2025<br>2025** | **Mr. Cho joined the Investment Adviser in 2004. He is a portfolio manager on the Fundamental Equity Team.** |
|  **Charles "Brook" Dane,**<br> **Managing Director** | **Portfolio Manager—**<br> **Growth Opportunities ETF**<br> **Technology Opportunities ETF**<br> **Value Opportunities ETF** | **Since**<br> **2025**<br> **2025**<br> **2025** | **Mr. Dane joined the Investment Adviser in 2010. He is a portfolio manager on the Fundamental Equity Team.** |
|  **Raj Garigipati,**<br> **Managing Director** | **Portfolio Manager— Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF**<br> **Growth Opportunities ETF**<br> **Technology Opportunities ETF**<br> **Value Opportunities ETF** | **Since**<br> **2025**<br> **2025**<br> **2025**<br> **2025** | **Mr. Garigipati joined the ETF Portfolio Management team in 2015. He is the global head of the ETF Portfolio Management team within the Quantitative Equity Solutions team, a role he has held since 2016.** |
|  **Kevin Martens,** <br> **Vice President** | **Portfolio Manager— Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF**<br> **Value Opportunities ETF** | **Since**<br> **2025**<br> **2025** | **Mr. Martens joined the Investment Adviser in 2015. He is a portfolio manager on the ESG Strategy and Fundamental Equity Team.** |

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For information about portfolio manager compensation, other accounts managed by a portfolio manager and portfolio manager ownership of securities in the Fund, see the SAI.

DISTRIBUTOR

ALPS Distributors, Inc., 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, Colorado 80203, serves as the exclusive distributor of Creation Units of Shares of the Fund pursuant to a "best efforts" arrangement as provided by a distribution agreement with the Trust on behalf of the Fund. Shares of the Fund are offered and sold on a continuous basis by the Distributor, acting as agent. The Distributor does not maintain a secondary market in the Fund's Shares.

TRANSFER AGENT, CUSTODIAN AND PROVIDER OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

The Bank of New York Mellon ("BNYM"), 240 Greenwich Street, New York, New York 10286, serves as the Trust's transfer and dividend disbursing agent. Under its transfer agency agreement with the Trust, BNYM has undertaken with the Trust to provide the following services with respect to the Fund: (i) perform and facilitate the performance of purchases and redemptions of Creation Units, (ii) prepare and transmit by means of Depository Trust Company's ("DTC") book-entry system payments for dividends and distributions on or with respect to the Shares declared by the Trust on behalf of the Fund, (iii) prepare and deliver reports, information and documents as specified in the transfer agency agreement, (iv) perform the customary services of a transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent, and (v) render certain other miscellaneous services as specified in the transfer agency agreement or as otherwise agreed upon.

BNYM is the custodian of the Trust's portfolio securities and cash. The custodian of the Trust may change from time to time. BNYM also maintains the Trust's accounting records. BNYM may appoint domestic and foreign sub-custodians and use depositories from time to time to hold securities and other instruments purchased by the Trust in foreign countries and to hold cash and currencies for the Trust.

BNYM provides administrative services pursuant to a fund administration agreement with the Trust (the "Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement") pursuant to which BNYM provides certain services, including, among others, (i) preparation of certain shareholder reports and communications; (ii) preparation of certain reports and filings with the SEC; (iii) certain NAV computation services; and (iv) such other services for the Trust as may be mutually agreed upon between the Trust and BNYM. For its services

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SERVICE PROVIDERS

under the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement, BNYM receives such fees based on a stated percentage of net assets as are agreed upon from time to time between the parties. In addition, BNYM is reimbursed for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement. In addition, an affiliate of BNYM will also provide certain other services for the Trust, including, (i) providing foreign exchange transaction services and (ii) executing trades in connection with certain creation and redemption transactions effected partially in cash. For these services, the BNYM affiliate will receive compensation based on levels that are negotiated with the Trust and/or the Investment Adviser. BNYM also provides certain middle office services to GSAM pursuant to a service agreement.

ACTIVITIES OF GOLDMAN SACHS AND ITS AFFILIATES AND OTHER<br>ACCOUNTS MANAGED BY GOLDMAN SACHS

The involvement of the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and their affiliates in the management of, or their interest in, other accounts and other activities of Goldman Sachs will present conflicts of interest with respect to the Fund and will, under certain circumstances, limit the Fund's investment activities. Goldman Sachs is a worldwide, full service investment banking, broker dealer, asset management and financial services organization and a major participant in global financial markets that provides a wide range of financial services to a substantial and diversified client base that includes corporations, financial institutions, governments and individuals. As such, it acts as a broker-dealer, investment adviser, investment banker, underwriter, research provider, administrator, financier, adviser, market maker, trader, prime broker, derivatives dealer, clearing agent, lender, counterparty, agent, principal, distributor, investor or in other commercial capacities for accounts or companies (including Fund portfolio companies) or affiliated or unaffiliated investment funds (including pooled investment vehicles and private funds) in which one or more accounts, including the Fund, invest. In those and other capacities, Goldman Sachs and its affiliates advise and deal with clients and third parties in all markets and transactions and purchase, sell, hold and recommend a broad array of investments, including securities, derivatives, loans, commodities, currencies, credit default swaps, indices, baskets and other financial instruments and products for their own accounts or for the accounts of their customers and have other direct and indirect interests in the global fixed income, currency, commodity, equities, bank loans and other markets in which the Fund directly and indirectly invests. Thus, it is expected that the Fund will have multiple business relationships with and will invest in, engage in transactions with, make voting decisions with respect to, or obtain services from entities for which Goldman Sachs and its affiliates perform or seek to perform investment banking or other services. The Investment Adviser and/or certain of its affiliates are the managers of the Goldman Sachs Funds. The Investment Adviser and its affiliates earn fees from this and other relationships with the Fund. Although management fees paid by the Fund to the Investment Adviser and certain other fees paid to the Investment Adviser's affiliates are based on asset levels, the fees are not directly contingent on Fund performance, and the Investment Adviser and its affiliates will still receive significant compensation from the Fund even if shareholders lose money. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates engage in proprietary trading and advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives, principal investment strategies and/or policies similar or substantially similar to those of the Fund and/or which engage in and compete for transactions in the same types of securities, currencies and instruments as the Fund. Due to differences in tax management considerations and implementation techniques, trades of the Fund's portfolio holdings may be executed on a delayed basis relative to such accounts and funds advised by Goldman Sachs and its affiliates with investment objectives, principal investment strategies and/or policies substantially similar to those of the Fund. This may cause trades of the Fund's portfolio holdings to be executed at inopportune times and/or prices. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates will not have any obligation to make available any information regarding their proprietary activities or strategies, or the activities or strategies used for other accounts managed by them, for the benefit of the management of the Fund. The results of the Fund's investment activities, therefore, will likely differ from those of Goldman Sachs, its affiliates, and other accounts managed by Goldman Sachs, and it is possible that the Fund could sustain losses during periods in which Goldman Sachs and its affiliates and other accounts achieve significant profits on their trading for proprietary or other accounts. In addition, the Fund may enter into transactions in which Goldman Sachs and its affiliates or their other clients have an adverse interest. For example, the Fund may take a long position in a security at the same time that Goldman Sachs and its affiliates or other accounts managed by the Investment Adviser or its affiliates take a short position in the same security (or vice versa). These and other transactions undertaken by Goldman Sachs, its affiliates or Goldman Sachs-advised clients may, individually or in the aggregate, adversely impact the Fund. In some cases, such adverse impacts may result from differences in the timing of transactions by accounts relative to when the Fund executes transactions in the same securities. Transactions by one or more Goldman Sachs-advised clients or the Investment Adviser may have the effect of diluting or otherwise disadvantaging the values, prices or investment strategies of the Fund. The Fund's activities will, under certain circumstances, be limited because of regulatory restrictions applicable to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and/or their internal policies designed to comply with such restrictions. As a global financial services firm, Goldman Sachs and its affiliates also provide a wide range of investment banking and financial

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services to issuers of securities and investors in securities. Goldman Sachs, its affiliates and others associated with it are expected to create markets or specialize in, have positions in and/or effect transactions in, securities of issuers held by the Fund, and will likely also perform or seek to perform investment banking and financial services for one or more of those issuers. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates are expected to have business relationships with and purchase or distribute or sell services or products from or to distributors, consultants or others who recommend the Fund or who engage in transactions with or for the Fund.

For more information about conflicts of interest, see the section titled "Potential Conflicts of Interest" in the SAI.

The Fund will, from time to time, make brokerage and other payments to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates in connection with the Fund's portfolio investment transactions, in accordance with applicable law.

The Fund's Board of Trustees may approve a securities lending program where an affiliate of the Investment Adviser is retained to serve as the securities lending agent for the Fund to the extent that the Fund engages in the securities lending program. For these services, the lending agent would receive a fee from the Fund, including a fee based on the returns earned on the Fund's investment of the cash received as collateral for the loaned securities.

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Distributions

The Fund pays distributions from its investment income and from net realized capital gains.

Distributions from net investment income, if any, are normally declared and paid annually for the Fund, and distributions from net capital gains, if any, are normally declared and paid annually for the Fund. In addition, the Fund may occasionally make a distribution at a time when it is not normally made.

In addition to the net investment income dividends paid annually, the Fund may also earn additional net investment income throughout the year. Any additional net investment income will be distributed annually as a declared event and paid to shareholders of record for such events.

From time to time a portion of the Fund's distributions may constitute a return of capital for tax purposes, and/or may include amounts in excess of the Fund's net investment income for the period calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP").

Dividends and other distributions on Shares of the Fund are distributed on a pro rata basis to beneficial owners of such Shares. Dividend payments are made through Depository Trust Company ("DTC") Participants and Indirect Participants (each as described in the Book Entry section below) to beneficial owners then of record with proceeds received from the Fund.

No dividend reinvestment service is provided by the Fund. Broker-dealers may make available the DTC book-entry dividend reinvestment service for use by beneficial owners of the Fund for reinvestment of their dividend distributions. Beneficial owners should contact their broker to determine the availability and costs of the service and the details of participation therein. Brokers may require beneficial owners to adhere to specific procedures and timetables. If this service is available and used, dividend distributions of both income and realized gains will be automatically reinvested in additional whole Shares of the Fund purchased in the secondary market.

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Shareholder Guide

BUYING AND SELLING SHARES

Shares of the Fund may be acquired or redeemed directly from the Fund at NAV only in Creation Units or multiples thereof, as discussed in the Creations and Redemptions section of the Prospectus. Only an Authorized Participant (as defined in the Creations and Redemptions section below) may engage in creation or redemption transactions directly with the Fund. Once created, Shares of the Fund generally trade in the secondary market in amounts less than a Creation Unit.

Shares of the Fund are listed for trading on a national securities exchange during the trading day. Shares can be bought and sold throughout the trading day at market price like Shares of other publicly traded companies. However, there can be no guarantee that an active trading market will develop or be maintained, or that the Fund Shares listing will continue or remain unchanged. The Trust does not impose any minimum investment for Shares of the Fund purchased on an exchange. Buying or selling the Fund's Shares involves certain costs that apply to all securities transactions.

When buying or selling Shares of the Fund through a financial intermediary, you may incur a brokerage commission or other charges determined by your financial intermediary. Due to these brokerage costs, if any, frequent trading may detract significantly from investment returns. In addition, you may also incur the cost of the spread (the difference between the bid price and the ask price). The commission is frequently a fixed amount and may be a significant cost for investors seeking to buy or sell small amounts of Shares. The spread varies over time for Shares of the Fund based on its trading volume and market liquidity, and is generally less if the Fund has more trading volume and market liquidity and more if the Fund has less trading volume and market liquidity.

The Fund's primary listing exchange is NASDAQ. NASDAQ is open for trading Monday through Friday and is closed on the following holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth National Independence Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

A "business day" with respect to the Fund is each day the New York Stock Exchange, NASDAQ, and the Trust are open and includes any day that the Fund is required to be open under Section 22(e) of the Investment Company Act. Orders from Authorized Participants to create or redeem Creation Units will only be accepted on a business day. On days when NASDAQ closes earlier than normal, the Fund may require orders to create or redeem Creation Units to be placed earlier in the day. See the SAI for more information.

The Trust's Board of Trustees has not adopted a policy of monitoring for frequent purchases and redemptions of Fund Shares ("frequent trading") that appear to attempt to take advantage of potential arbitrage opportunities presented by a lag between a change in the value of the Fund's portfolio securities after the close of the primary markets for the Fund's portfolio securities and the reflection of that change in the Fund's NAV ("market timing"). The Trust believes this is appropriate because ETFs, such as the Fund, are intended to be attractive to arbitrageurs, as trading activity is critical to ensuring that the market price of Fund Shares remains at or close to NAV. Since the Fund issues and redeems Creation Units at NAV plus applicable transaction fees, and the Fund's Shares may be purchased and sold on NASDAQ at prevailing market prices, the risks of frequent trading are limited.

Section 12(d)(1) of the Investment Company Act restricts investments by registered investment companies and companies relying on Sections 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the Investment Company Act in the securities of other investment companies. Registered investment companies are permitted to invest in the Fund beyond the limits set forth in Section 12(d)(1), subject to certain terms and conditions, including that such investment companies enter into an agreement with the Trust.

The Fund and the Distributor will have the sole right to accept orders to purchase Shares and reserve the right to reject any purchase order in whole or in part.

PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

GSAM and/or the Distributor (upon direction of the Fund) may make payments to broker-dealers, registered investment advisers or other financial intermediaries (each, a "Financial Intermediary") related to activities that are designed to make registered representatives, other professionals and individual investors more knowledgeable about the Fund or for other activities, such as participation in marketing activities and presentations, educational training programs, the support or purchase of technology platforms/ software and/or reporting systems. GSAM and/or the Distributor (upon direction of the Fund) may also make payments to Financial

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SHAREHOLDER GUIDE

Intermediaries for certain printing, publishing and mailing costs associated with the Fund or materials relating to ETFs in general and/or for the provision of analytical or other data to GSAM or its affiliates relating to marketing of the Fund Shares and other Goldman Sachs Funds. In addition, GSAM and/or the Distributor may make payments to Financial Intermediaries that make

Fund Shares available to their clients or for otherwise promoting the Fund, including through provision of consultative services to GSAM or its affiliates relating to marketing of the Fund and/or sale of Fund Shares. Such payments, which may be significant to the Financial Intermediary, are not made by the Fund. Rather, such payments are made by GSAM and/or the Distributor from their own resources, which may come directly or indirectly in part from management fees paid by the Fund. Payments of this type are sometimes referred to as marketing support or revenue-sharing payments. A Financial Intermediary may make decisions about which investment options it recommends or makes available, or the level of services provided, to its customers based on the marketing support payments it is eligible to receive. Therefore, such payments to a Financial Intermediary create conflicts of interest between the Financial Intermediary and its customers and may cause the Financial Intermediary to recommend the Fund over another investment. More information regarding these payments is contained in the SAI. A shareholder should contact his or her Financial Intermediary's salesperson or other investment professional for more information regarding any such payments the Financial Intermediary firm may receive from GSAM and/or the Distributor.

NET ASSET VALUE

The Fund generally calculates its NAV as follows:

NAV =   <u> (Value of Assets of the Fund) – (Liabilities of the Fund)</u> <br> Number of Outstanding Shares of the Fund

The Fund's NAV per share is generally calculated by the Fund's provider of administrative services on each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) or such other times as the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ market may officially close. The Fund's investments for which market quotations are readily available are valued at market value on the basis of quotations provided by pricing sources. If accurate quotations are not readily available, if the Fund's provider of administrative services is unable for other reasons to facilitate pricing of individual securities or calculate the Fund's NAV, or if the Investment Adviser believes that such quotations do not accurately reflect fair value, the fair value of the Fund's investments may be determined in good faith under valuation procedures approved by the Board of Trustees. Thus, such pricing may be based on subjective judgments and it is possible that the prices resulting from such valuation procedures may differ materially from the value realized on a sale. Cases where there is no clear indication of the value of the Fund's investments include, among others, situations where a security or other asset or liability does not have a price source or a price is unavailable.

Equity securities listed on an exchange are generally valued at the last available sale price on the exchange on which they are principally traded.

Fixed income securities are generally valued on the basis of prices (including evaluated prices) and quotations provided by pricing services or securities dealers. Pricing services may use matrix pricing or valuation models, which utilize certain inputs and assumptions, including, but not limited to, yield or price with respect to comparable fixed income securities, to determine current value. Pricing services generally value fixed income securities assuming orderly transactions of an institutional round lot size, but the Fund may hold or transact in such securities in smaller odd lot sizes. Odd lots may trade at lower prices than institutional round lots.

Investments in other open-end registered investment companies (if any), excluding investments in ETFs, are valued based on the NAV of those open-end registered investment companies (which may use fair value pricing as discussed in their prospectuses). Investments in ETFs will generally be valued at the last sale price or official closing price on the exchange on which they are principally traded.

In addition, the Investment Adviser, consistent with its procedures and applicable regulatory guidance, may (but need not) determine to make an adjustment to the previous closing prices of securities in light of significant events, to reflect what it believes to be the fair value of the securities at the time of determining the Fund's NAV. Significant events that could affect a large number of securities in a particular market may include, but are not limited to: situations relating to one or more single issuers in a market sector; significant fluctuations in U.S. or foreign markets; market dislocations; market disruptions or unscheduled market closings; equipment failures; natural or man-made disasters or acts of God; armed conflicts; governmental actions or other developments; as

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well as the same or similar events which may affect specific issuers or the securities markets even though not tied directly to the securities markets. Other significant events that could relate to a single issuer may include, but are not limited to: corporate actions such as reorganizations, mergers and buy-outs; corporate announcements, including those relating to earnings, products and regulatory news; significant litigation; ratings downgrades; bankruptcies; and trading limits or suspensions.

Fair valuation involves the risk that the values used by the Fund to price its investments may be different from those used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments.

Foreign securities may trade in their local markets on days the Fund is closed. As a result, if the Fund holds foreign securities, its NAV may be impacted on days when investors may not purchase or sell Fund Shares on the secondary market or purchase or redeem Creation Units through the Fund.

The Fund relies on various sources to calculate its NAV. The ability of the Fund's provider of administrative services to calculate the NAV per share of the Fund is subject to operational risks associated with processing or human errors, systems or technology failures, cyber attacks and errors caused by third party service providers, data sources, or trading counterparties. Such failures may result in delays in the calculation of the Fund's NAV and/or the inability to calculate NAV over extended time periods. The Fund may be unable to recover any losses associated with such failures. In addition, if the third party service providers and/or data sources upon which the Fund directly or indirectly relies to calculate its NAV or price individual securities are unavailable or otherwise unable to calculate the NAV correctly, it may be necessary for alternative procedures to be utilized to price the securities at the time of determining the Fund's NAV.

BOOK ENTRY

DTC serves as securities depository for the Shares. (The Shares may be held only in book-entry form; stock certificates will not be issued.) DTC, or its nominee, is the record or registered owner of all outstanding Shares. Beneficial ownership of Shares will be shown on the records of DTC or its participants (described below). Beneficial owners of Shares are not entitled to have Shares registered in their names, will not receive or be entitled to receive physical delivery of certificates in definitive form and are not considered the registered holder thereof. Accordingly, to exercise any rights of a holder of Shares, each beneficial owner must rely on the procedures of (i) DTC; (ii) "DTC Participants," *i.e.*, securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations and certain other organizations, some of whom (and/or their representatives) own DTC; and (iii) "Indirect Participants," *i.e.*, brokers, dealers, banks and trust companies that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a DTC Participant, either directly or indirectly, through which such beneficial owner holds its interests. The Trust understands that under existing industry practice, in the event the Trust requests any action of holders of Shares, or a beneficial owner desires to take any action that DTC, as the record owner of all outstanding Shares, is entitled to take, DTC would authorize the DTC Participants to take such action and that the DTC Participants would authorize the Indirect Participants and beneficial owners acting through such DTC Participants to take such action and would otherwise act upon the instructions of beneficial owners owning through them. As described above, the Trust recognizes DTC or its nominee as the owner of all Shares for all purposes.

CREATIONS AND REDEMPTIONS

Prior to trading in the secondary market, Shares of the Fund are "created" at NAV by market makers, large investors and institutions only in block-size Creation Units or multiples thereof. Each "creator" or "Authorized Participant" enters into an authorized participant agreement with the Fund's Distributor.

A creation transaction, which is subject to acceptance by BNYM, as the Trust's transfer agent, generally takes place when an Authorized Participant deposits into the Fund a designated portfolio of securities (including any portion of such securities for which cash may be substituted) and/or a specified amount of cash in exchange for a specified number of Creation Units.

Similarly, Shares can be redeemed only in Creation Units, generally for a designated portfolio of securities (including any portion of such securities for which cash may be substituted) held by the Fund and/or a specified amount of cash. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, Shares are not redeemable by the Fund.

The prices at which creations and redemptions occur are based on the next calculation of NAV after a creation or redemption order is received in an acceptable form under the authorized participant agreement.

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SHAREHOLDER GUIDE

Please note the following with respect to the price at which transactions are processed:

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| ⬛ | NAV per Share is generally calculated by the Fund's fund accounting agent on each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) or such other times as the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ market may officially close. Fund Shares will generally not be priced on any day the New York Stock Exchange is closed.  |

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| ⬛ | The Trust reserves the right to reprocess creation and redemption transactions that were processed at a NAV that is subsequently adjusted, and to recover amounts from (or distribute amounts to) Authorized Participants accordingly based on the official closing NAV, as adjusted.  |

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⬛ The Trust reserves the right to advance the time by which creation and redemption orders must be received for same business day credit as otherwise permitted by the SEC.

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | Consistent with industry practice, investment transactions not settling on the same day are recorded and factored into the Fund's NAV on the business day following trade date (T+1). The use of T+1 accounting generally does not, but may, result in a NAV that differs materially from the NAV that would result if all transactions were reflected on their trade dates.  |

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***Note: The time at which transactions and Shares are priced and the time by which orders must be received may be changed in case of an emergency or if regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange is stopped at a time other than its regularly scheduled closing time. In the event the New York Stock Exchange does not open for business, the Trust may, but is not required to, open the Fund for creation and redemption transactions if the Federal Reserve wire payment system is open. To learn whether the Fund is open for business during this situation, please call the appropriate phone number located on the back cover of the Prospectus.***

Only an Authorized Participant may create or redeem Creation Units directly with the Fund.

In the event of a system failure or other interruption, including disruptions at market makers or Authorized Participants, orders to purchase or redeem Creation Units either may not be executed according to the Fund's instructions or may not be executed at all, or the Fund may not be able to place or change orders.

To the extent the Fund engages in in-kind transactions, the Fund intends to comply with the U.S. federal securities laws in accepting securities for deposit and satisfying redemptions with redemption securities by, among other means, assuring that any securities accepted for deposit and any securities used to satisfy redemption requests will be sold in transactions that would be exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). Further, an Authorized Participant that is not a "qualified institutional buyer," as such term is defined under Rule 144A of the Securities Act, will not be able to receive restricted securities eligible for resale under Rule 144A.

Creations and redemptions must be made through a firm that is either a member of the Continuous Net Settlement System of the National Securities Clearing Corporation or a DTC Participant and has executed an agreement with the Distributor with respect to creations and redemptions of Creation Unit aggregations. Information about the procedures regarding creation and redemption of Creation Units (including the cut-off times for receipt of creation and redemption orders) and the applicable transaction fees is included in the Fund's SAI.

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Taxation

As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in the Fund will be taxed. The tax information below is provided as general information. More tax information is available in the SAI. You should consult your tax adviser about the federal, state, local or foreign tax consequences of your investment in the Fund. Except as otherwise noted, the tax information provided assumes that you are a U.S. citizen or resident.

Unless your investment is through an IRA or other tax-advantaged account, you should carefully consider the possible tax consequences of Fund distributions and the sale of your Fund Shares.

DISTRIBUTIONS

The Fund contemplates declaring as dividends each year all or substantially all of its taxable income. Distributions you receive from the Fund are generally subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes. This is true whether you reinvest your distributions in additional Fund Shares or receive them in cash. For federal tax purposes, the Fund's distributions attributable to net investment income and short- term capital gains are taxable to you as ordinary income while distributions of long-term capital gains, if any, are taxable to you as long-term capital gains, no matter how long you have owned your Fund Shares.

Under current provisions of the Code, the maximum individual rate applicable to long-term capital gains is generally either 15% or 20%, depending on whether the individual's income exceeds certain threshold amounts. Fund distributions to non-corporate shareholders attributable to dividends received by the Fund from U.S. and certain qualified foreign corporations will generally be taxed at the long-term capital gain rate, as long as certain other requirements are met. For these lower rates to apply, the non-corporate shareholder must own their Fund Shares for at least 61 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the Fund's ex-dividend date. The amount of the Fund's distributions that would otherwise qualify for this favorable tax treatment will be reduced as a result of the Fund's securities lending activities or high portfolio turnover rate.

A percentage of the Fund's dividends paid to corporate shareholders may be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction. This percentage may, however, be reduced as a result of the Fund's securities lending activities or by a high portfolio turnover rate.

Character and tax status of all distributions will be available to shareholders after the close of each calendar year. Distributions in excess of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits are treated as a tax-free return of your investment to the extent of your basis in the Shares, and generally as capital gain thereafter. A return of capital, which for tax purposes is treated as a return of your investment, reduces your basis in shares, thus reducing any loss or increasing any gain on a subsequent taxable disposition of shares. A distribution will reduce the Fund's NAV per share and may be taxable to you as ordinary income or capital gain even though, from an economic standpoint, the distribution may constitute a return of capital.

An additional 3.8% Medicare tax is imposed on certain net investment income (including ordinary dividends and capital gain distributions received from the Fund and net gains from redemptions or other taxable dispositions of Fund Shares) of U.S. individuals, estates and trusts to the extent that such person's "modified adjusted gross income" (in the case of an individual) or "adjusted gross income" (in the case of an estate or trust) exceeds certain threshold amounts.

The Fund's transactions in derivatives (such as futures contracts and swaps) will be subject to special tax rules, the effect of which may be to accelerate income to the Fund, defer losses to the Fund, cause adjustments in the holding periods of the Fund's securities and convert short-term capital losses into long-term capital losses. These rules could therefore affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to you. The Fund's use of derivatives may result in the Fund realizing more short-term capital gains and ordinary income subject to tax at ordinary income tax rates than it would if it did not use derivatives.

Although distributions are generally treated as taxable to you in the year they are paid, distributions declared in October, November or December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December.

The Fund may be subject to foreign withholding or other foreign taxes on income or gain from certain foreign securities. In general, the Fund may deduct these taxes in computing its taxable income.

If you buy Shares of the Fund before it makes a distribution, the distribution will be taxable to you even though it may actually be a return of a portion of your investment. This is known as "buying into a dividend."

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TAXATION

TAXES ON CREATIONS AND REDEMPTIONS OF CREATION UNITS

A person who exchanges securities for Creation Units generally will recognize a gain or loss. The gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the market value of the Creation Units at the time of exchange and the sum of the exchanger's aggregate basis in the securities surrendered and the amount of any cash paid for such Creation Units. A person who exchanges Creation Units for securities will generally recognize a gain or loss equal to the difference between the exchanger's basis in the Creation Units and the sum of the aggregate market value of the securities received and the amount of any cash received for such Creation Units. The Internal Revenue Service, however, may assert that a loss realized upon an exchange of primarily securities for Creation Units cannot be deducted currently under the rules governing "wash sales," or on the basis that there has been no significant change in economic position. Persons exchanging securities for Creation Units or redeeming Creation Units should consult their own tax adviser with respect to whether wash sale rules apply and when a loss might be deductible and the tax treatment of any creation or redemption transaction.

Under current U.S. federal income tax laws, any capital gain or loss realized upon a redemption (or creation) of Creation Units is generally treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the Shares (or securities surrendered) have been held for more than one year and as a short-term capital gain or loss if the Shares (or securities surrendered) have been held for one year or less.

SALES OF FUND SHARES

Your sale of Fund Shares is a taxable transaction for federal income tax purposes, and may also be subject to state and local taxes. When you sell your Shares, you will generally recognize a capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between your adjusted tax basis in the Shares and the amount received. Generally, this capital gain or loss is long-term or short-term depending on whether your holding period exceeds one year, except that any loss realized on Shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any long-term capital gain dividends that were received on the Shares. Additionally, any loss realized on a sale, exchange or redemption of Shares of the Fund may be disallowed under "wash sale" rules to the extent the Shares disposed of are replaced with other Shares of that Fund within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the date of disposition (such as pursuant to a dividend reinvestment in Shares of the Fund). If disallowed, the loss will be reflected in an adjustment to the basis of the Shares acquired.

OTHER INFORMATION

You may be subject to backup withholding at a rate of 24% with respect to taxable distributions if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or certify that it is correct, or if you have been notified by the IRS that you are subject to backup withholding.

Non-U.S. investors are generally subject to U.S. withholding tax and may be subject to estate tax with respect to their Fund shares. However, withholding is generally not required on properly reported distributions to non-U.S. investors of long-term capital gains. Non-U.S. investors generally are not subject to U.S. federal income tax withholding on certain distributions of interest income and/or short-term capital gains that are reported by the Fund. Although the Fund will generally report short-term capital gains, the Fund does not anticipate reporting interest income.

Therefore, all distributions of interest income will generally be subject to withholding when paid to non-U.S. investors. More information about U.S. taxation and non-U.S. investors is included in the SAI.

Withholding of U.S. tax (at a 30% rate) is required with respect to payments of dividends made to certain non-U.S. entities that fail to comply (or be deemed compliant) with extensive reporting and withholding requirements designed to inform the U.S. Department of the Treasury of U.S.-owned foreign investment accounts. Shareholders may be requested to provide additional information to enable the applicable withholding agent to determine whether withholding is required.

Reporting to you and the IRS is required annually on Form 1099-B with respect to not only the gross proceeds of Fund Shares you sell or redeem but also their cost basis. Shareholders should contact their intermediaries with respect to reporting of cost basis and available elections with respect to their accounts. You should carefully review the cost basis information provided by the applicable intermediary and make any additional basis, holding period or other adjustments that are required when reporting these amounts on your federal income tax returns.

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Other Information

PREMIUM/DISCOUNT INFORMATION

The Fund has not yet commenced operations as of the date of the prospectus and, therefore, does not have information to report regarding how often the Shares of the Fund traded on NASDAQ at a price above NAV (*i.e.*, a premium) or below NAV (*i.e.*, a discount). When available, information regarding how often Shares of the Fund traded on NASDAQ at a premium or discount during the most recently completed calendar year and the most recently completed calendar quarter(s) since that year (or the life of the Fund, if shorter) can be found at am.gs.com.

CONTINUOUS OFFERING

The method by which Creation Units are created and traded may raise certain issues under applicable securities laws. Because new Creation Units are issued and sold by the Trust on an ongoing basis, a "distribution," as such term is used in the Securities Act, may occur at any point. Broker dealers and other persons are cautioned that some activities on their part may, depending on the circumstances, result in their being deemed participants in a distribution in a manner which could render them statutory underwriters and subject them to the prospectus delivery and liability provisions of the Securities Act.

For example, a broker dealer firm or its client may be deemed a statutory underwriter if it takes Creation Units after placing an order with the Distributor, breaks them down into constituent Shares, and sells such Shares directly to customers, or if it chooses to couple the creation of a supply of new Shares with an active selling effort involving solicitation of secondary market demand for Shares. A determination of whether one is an underwriter for purposes of the Securities Act must take into account all the facts and circumstances pertaining to the activities of the broker dealer or its client in the particular case, and the examples mentioned above should not be considered a complete description of all the activities that could lead to a categorization as an underwriter.

Broker dealers who are not "underwriters" but are participating in a distribution (as contrasted to ordinary secondary trading transactions), and thus dealing with Shares that are part of an "unsold allotment" within the meaning of Section 4(a)(3)(C) of the Securities Act, would be unable to take advantage of the prospectus delivery exemption provided by Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act. This is because the prospectus delivery exemption in Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act is not available in respect of such transactions as a result of Section 24(d) of the Investment Company Act. As a result, broker dealer firms should note that dealers who are not underwriters but are participating in a distribution (as contrasted with ordinary secondary market transactions) and thus dealing with the Shares that are part of an overallotment within the meaning of Section 4(a)(3)(A) of the Securities Act would be unable to take advantage of the prospectus delivery exemption provided by Section 4(a)(3) of the Securities Act. Firms that incur a prospectus delivery obligation with respect to Shares are reminded that, under Rule 153 of the Securities Act, a prospectus delivery obligation under Section 5(b)(2) of the Securities Act owed to an exchange member in connection with a sale on NASDAQ is satisfied by the fact that the prospectus is available at NASDAQ upon request. The prospectus delivery mechanism provided in Rule 153 is only available with respect to transactions on an exchange.

In addition, certain affiliates of the Fund and the Investment Adviser may purchase and resell Fund Shares pursuant to the Prospectus.

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Appendix A

Additional Information on Portfolio Risks,

Securities and Techniques

A. General Portfolio Risks

The Funds will be subject to the risks associated with equity investments. "Equity investments" may include common stocks, preferred stocks, interests in REITs, convertible debt obligations, convertible preferred stocks, equity interests in trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, limited liability companies and similar enterprises, MLPs, other investment companies (including ETFs), warrants, stock purchase rights and synthetic and derivative instruments (such as swaps and futures contracts) that have economic characteristics similar to equity securities.

In general, the values of equity investments fluctuate in response to the activities of individual companies and in response to general market and economic conditions. Accordingly, the values of the equity investments that a Fund holds may decline over short or extended periods. The stock markets tend to be cyclical, with periods when stock prices generally rise and periods when prices generally decline. This volatility means that the value of your investment in the Funds may increase or decrease. In recent years, certain stock markets have experienced substantial price volatility. To the extent a Fund's net assets decrease or increase in the future due to price volatility or share redemption or purchase activity, the Fund's expense ratio may correspondingly increase or decrease from the expense ratio disclosed in the Prospectus.

To the extent a Fund invests in pooled investment vehicles (including investment companies and ETFs), partnerships and REITs, the Fund will be affected by the investment policies, practices and performances of such entities in direct proportion to the amount of assets the Fund invests therein.

To the extent that a Fund invests in fixed income securities, the Fund will also be subject to the risks associated with its fixed income securities. These risks include interest rate risk, credit/default risk and call/extension risk. In general, interest rate risk involves the risk that when interest rates decline, the market value of fixed income securities tends to increase (although many mortgage-related securities will have less potential than other debt securities for capital appreciation during periods of declining rates). Conversely, when interest rates increase, the market value of fixed income securities tends to decline. Credit/default risk involves the risk that an issuer or guarantor could default on its obligations, and a Fund will not recover its investment. A rising interest rate environment could cause the value of a Fund's fixed income securities, if any, to decrease, and fixed income markets to experience increased volatility in addition to heightened levels of liquidity risk. Additionally, decreases in the value of fixed income securities could lead to increased shareholder redemptions, which could impair a Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective. The risks associated with increasing rates are heightened given that interest rates are near historic lows, but may be expected to increase in the future with unpredictable effects on the markets and a Fund's investments. Call risk and extension risk are normally present in mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities. For example, homeowners have the option to prepay their mortgages. Therefore, the duration of a security backed by home mortgages can either shorten (call risk) or lengthen (extension risk). In general, if interest rates on new mortgage loans fall sufficiently below the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to increase. Conversely, if mortgage loan interest rates rise above the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to decrease. In either case, a change in the prepayment rate can result in losses to investors. The same would be true of asset-backed securities such as securities backed by car loans.

Non-investment grade fixed income securities (commonly known as "junk bonds") are rated below investment grade (or determined to be of comparable credit quality, if not rated) at the time of purchase and are therefore considered speculative. Because non-investment grade fixed income securities are issued by issuers with low credit ratings, they pose a greater risk of default than investment grade securities.

The Investment Adviser will not consider the portfolio turnover rate a limiting factor in making investment decisions for a Fund. A high rate of portfolio turnover (100% or more) involves correspondingly greater expenses which must be borne by a Fund and its shareholders and is also likely to result in higher short-term capital gains for taxable shareholders. The portfolio turnover rate is calculated by dividing the lesser of the dollar amount of sales or purchases of portfolio securities by the average monthly value of a Fund's portfolio securities, excluding securities having a maturity at the date of purchase of one year or less. See "Financial Highlights" in Appendix B for a statement of a predecessor fund's historical portfolio turnover rates.

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The Funds may, from time to time, enter into arrangements with certain brokers or other counterparties that require the segregation of collateral. For operational, cost or other reasons, when setting up arrangements relating to the execution/clearing of trades, a Fund may choose to select a segregation model which may not be the most protective option available in the case of a default by a broker or counterparty.

The following sections provide further information on certain types of securities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associated risks. Additional information is provided in the SAI, which is available upon request. Among other things, the SAI describes certain fundamental investment restrictions that cannot be changed without shareholder approval. You should note, however, that all investment objectives and all investment policies not specifically designated as fundamental are non-fundamental, and may be changed without shareholder approval. If there is a change in a Fund's investment objective, you should consider whether the Fund remains an appropriate investment in light of your then current financial position and needs.

B. Other Portfolio Risks

***Risks of Investing in Mid-Capitalization and Small-Capitalization Companies.*** Each Fund may, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, invest in mid- and small-capitalization companies. Investments in mid- and small-capitalization companies involve greater risk and portfolio price volatility than investments in larger capitalization stocks. Among the reasons for the greater price volatility of these investments are the less certain growth prospects of smaller firms and the lower degree of liquidity in the markets for such securities. Mid- and small-capitalization companies may be thinly traded and may have to be sold at a discount from current market prices or in small lots over an extended period of time. In addition, these securities are subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities in particular investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic or market conditions, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient market liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Mid- and small-capitalization companies include "unseasoned" issuers that do not have an established financial history; often have limited product lines, markets or financial resources; may depend on or use a few key personnel for management; and may be susceptible to losses and risks of bankruptcy. Mid- and small-capitalization companies may be operating at a loss or have significant variations in operating results; may be engaged in a rapidly changing business with products subject to a substantial risk of obsolescence; may require substantial additional capital to support their operations, to finance expansion or to maintain their competitive position; and may have substantial borrowings or may otherwise have a weak financial condition. In addition, these companies may face intense competition, including competition from companies with greater financial resources, more extensive development, manufacturing, marketing, and other capabilities, and a larger number of qualified managerial and technical personnel. Transaction costs for these investments are often higher than those of larger capitalization companies. Investments in mid- and small-capitalization companies may be more difficult to price precisely than other types of securities because of their characteristics and lower trading volumes.

***Risks of Foreign Investments.*** The Funds may make foreign investments. Foreign investments involve special risks that are not typically associated with U.S. dollar denominated or quoted securities of U.S. issuers. Foreign investments may be affected by changes in currency rates, changes in foreign or U.S. laws or restrictions applicable to such investments and changes in exchange control regulations (e.g., currency blockage). A decline in the exchange rate of the currency (i.e., weakening of the currency against the U.S. dollar) in which a portfolio security is quoted or denominated relative to the U.S. dollar would reduce the value of the portfolio security. In addition, if the currency in which a Fund receives dividends, interest or other payments declines in value against the U.S. dollar before such income is distributed as dividends to shareholders or converted to U.S. dollars, the Fund may have to sell portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to pay such dividends.

Certain foreign markets may rely heavily on particular industries or foreign capital and are more vulnerable to diplomatic developments, the imposition of economic sanctions against a particular country or countries, organizations, entities and/or individuals, changes in international trading patterns, trade barriers, and other protectionist or retaliatory measures. International trade barriers or economic sanctions against foreign countries, organizations, entities and/or individuals may adversely affect a Fund's foreign holdings or exposures.

Brokerage commissions, custodial services and other costs relating to investment in international securities markets generally are more expensive than in the United States. In addition, clearance and settlement procedures may be different in foreign countries and, in certain markets, such procedures have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, thus making it difficult to conduct such transactions.

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APPENDIX A

Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. There may be less publicly available information about a foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer. In addition, there is generally less government regulation of foreign markets, companies and securities dealers than in the United States, and the legal remedies for investors may be more limited than the remedies available in the United States. Foreign securities markets may have substantially less volume than U.S. securities markets and securities of many foreign issuers are less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable domestic issuers. Furthermore, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, imposition of withholding or other taxes on dividend or interest payments (or, in some cases, capital gains distributions), limitations on the removal of funds or other assets from such countries, and risks of political or social instability or diplomatic developments which could adversely affect investments in those countries.

Certain foreign investments may become less liquid in response to social, political or market developments or adverse investor perceptions, or become illiquid after purchase by a Fund, particularly during periods of market turmoil. Certain foreign investments may become illiquid when, for instance, there are few, if any, interested buyers and sellers or when dealers are unwilling to make a market for certain securities. When a Fund holds illiquid investments, its portfolio may be harder to value, especially in changing markets.

If a Fund focuses its investments in one or a few countries and currencies the Fund may be subjected to greater risks than if a Fund's assets were not geographically focused.

Investments in foreign securities may take the form of sponsored and unsponsored American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"). The Funds may also invest in European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other similar instruments representing securities of foreign issuers. ADRs, GDRs and EDRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a bank or other depository. ADRs and certain GDRs are traded in the United States. GDRs may be traded in either the United States or in foreign markets. EDRs are traded primarily outside the United States. Prices of ADRs are quoted in U.S. dollars. EDRs and GDRs are not necessarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security.

***Risks of Sovereign Debt.*** Investment in sovereign debt obligations by a Fund involves risks not present in debt obligations of corporate issuers. The issuer of the debt or the governmental authorities that control the repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt, and a Fund may have limited recourse to compel payment in the event of a default. Periods of economic uncertainty may result in the volatility of market prices of sovereign debt, and in turn a Fund's NAV, to a greater extent than the volatility inherent in debt obligations of U.S. issuers.

A sovereign debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and pay interest in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its foreign currency reserves, the availability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the sovereign debtor's policy toward international lenders, and the political constraints to which a sovereign debtor may be subject.

***Risks of Emerging Countries.*** The Funds may invest in securities of issuers located in, or otherwise economically tied to, emerging countries. The risks of foreign investment are heightened when the issuer is located in an emerging country. Emerging countries are generally located in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Eastern and Central Europe, and Central and South America. A Fund's purchase and sale of portfolio securities in certain emerging countries may be constrained by limitations relating to daily changes in the prices of listed securities, periodic trading or settlement volume and/or limitations on aggregate holdings of foreign investors. Such limitations may be computed based on the aggregate trading volume by or holdings of a Fund, the Investment Adviser, or its affiliates and respective clients and other service providers. A Fund may not be able to sell securities in circumstances where price, trading or settlement volume limitations have been reached.

Foreign investment in the securities markets of certain emerging countries is restricted or controlled to varying degrees which may limit investment in such countries or increase the administrative costs of such investments. For example, certain Asian countries require governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a specific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of the issuer available for purchase by nationals. In addition, certain countries may restrict or prohibit investment opportunities in issuers or industries deemed important to national interests. Such restrictions may affect the market price, liquidity and rights of securities that may be purchased by a Fund. The repatriation of investment income, capital or the proceeds of securities sales from certain emerging countries is subject to restrictions such as the need for governmental consents, which may make it difficult for a Fund to invest in such emerging countries. A Fund could be adversely affected by delays in, or a refusal to grant, any required governmental approval for such repatriation. In situations where a country restricts direct investment in securities (which may occur in certain Asian and other countries), a Fund may invest in such countries through other investment funds in such countries.

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Emerging market countries may have more or less government regulation and generally do not impose as extensive and frequent accounting, auditing, financial and other reporting requirements as the securities markets of more developed countries. The degree of cooperation between issuers in emerging and frontier market countries with foreign and U.S. financial regulators may vary significantly. Accordingly, regulators may not have sufficient access to audit and oversee issuers, and there could be less information available about issuers in certain emerging market countries. As a result, the Investment Adviser's ability to evaluate local companies or their potential impact on a Fund's performance could be inhibited.

Many emerging countries have experienced currency devaluations and substantial (and, in some cases, extremely high) rates of inflation. Other emerging countries have experienced economic recessions. These circumstances have had a negative effect on the economies and securities markets of such emerging countries. Economies in emerging countries generally are dependent heavily upon commodity prices and international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be affected adversely by the economies of their trading partners, trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade.

Many emerging countries are subject to a substantial degree of economic, political and social instability. Governments of some emerging countries are authoritarian in nature or have been installed or removed as a result of military coups, while governments in other emerging countries have periodically used force to suppress civil dissent. Disparities of wealth, the pace and success of democratization, and ethnic, religious and racial disaffection, among other factors, have also led to social unrest, violence and/or labor unrest in some emerging countries. Unanticipated political or social developments may result in sudden and significant investment losses. Investing in emerging countries involves greater risk of loss due to expropriation, nationalization, confiscation of assets and property or the imposition of restrictions on foreign investments and on repatriation of capital invested. As an example, in the past, some Eastern European governments have expropriated substantial amounts of private property, and many claims of the property owners have never been fully settled. There is no assurance that similar expropriations will not occur in other countries.

A Fund's investment in emerging countries may also be subject to withholding or other taxes, which may be significant and may reduce the return to the Fund from an investment in issuers in such countries.

Settlement procedures in emerging countries are frequently less developed and reliable than those in the United States and may involve a Fund's delivery of securities before receipt of payment for their sale. In addition, significant delays may occur in certain markets in registering the transfer of securities. Settlement or registration problems may make it more difficult for a Fund to value its portfolio securities and could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, to have a portion of its assets uninvested or to incur losses due to the failure of a counterparty to pay for securities the Fund has delivered or the Fund's inability to complete its contractual obligations because of theft or other reasons.

The creditworthiness of the local securities firms used by a Fund in emerging countries may not be as sound as the creditworthiness of firms used in more developed countries. As a result, the Fund may be subject to a greater risk of loss if a securities firm defaults in the performance of its responsibilities.

The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain emerging countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in those countries may make a Fund's investments in such countries less liquid and more volatile than investments in countries with more developed securities markets (such as the United States, Japan and most Western European countries). A Fund's investments in emerging countries are subject to the risk that the liquidity of a particular investment, or investments generally, in such countries will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political conditions or adverse investor perceptions, whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient market liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Investments in emerging countries may be more difficult to value precisely because of the characteristics discussed above and lower trading volumes.

A Fund's use of foreign currency management techniques in emerging countries may be limited. The Investment Adviser anticipates that a significant portion of a Fund's currency exposure in emerging countries may not be covered by those techniques.

***Foreign Custody Risk.*** A Fund may hold foreign securities and cash with foreign banks, agents and securities depositories appointed by the Fund's custodian (each a "Foreign Custodian"). Some Foreign Custodians may be recently organized or new to the foreign custody business. In some countries, Foreign Custodians may be subject to little or no regulatory oversight over or independent evaluation of their operations. Further, the laws of certain countries may place limitations on a Fund's ability to recover its assets if a Foreign Custodian enters bankruptcy. Investments in emerging markets may be subject to even greater

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APPENDIX A

custody risks than investments in more developed markets. Custody services in emerging market countries are very often undeveloped and may be considerably less well regulated than in more developed countries, and thus may not afford the same level of investor protection as would apply in developed countries.

***Risks of Derivative Investments.*** Certain Funds may, to the extent consistent with their respective investment policies, invest in derivative instruments, including without limitation, options, futures, options on futures, swaps, structured securities and forward contracts and other derivatives relating to foreign currency transactions. Derivatives may be used for both hedging and non-hedging purposes (that is, to seek to increase total return), although suitable derivative instruments may not always be available to the Investment Adviser for these purposes. Losses from derivative instruments can result from a lack of correlation between changes in the value of derivative instruments and the portfolio assets (if any) being hedged, the potential illiquidity of the markets for derivative instruments, the failure of the counterparty to perform its contractual obligations, or the risks related to leverage factors associated with such transactions. Derivatives are also subject to risks arising from margin requirements, which include the risk that a Fund will be required to pay additional margin or set aside additional collateral to maintain open derivative positions and the risk of loss by a Fund of margin deposits in the event of the bankruptcy or other similar insolvency with respect to a broker or counterparty with whom a Fund has an open derivative position. Losses may also arise if a Fund receives cash collateral under the transactions and some or all of that collateral is invested in the market. To the extent that cash collateral is so invested, such collateral will be subject to market depreciation or appreciation, and a Fund may be responsible for any loss that might result from its investment of the counterparty's cash collateral. If cash collateral is not invested, a Fund may be exposed to additional risk of loss in the event of the insolvency of its custodian holding such collateral. The use of these management techniques also involves the risk of loss if the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of the timing or level of fluctuations in securities prices, interest rates, currency prices or other variables.

Derivative instruments may be harder to value, subject to greater volatility and more likely subject to changes in tax treatment than other investments. For these reasons, the Investment Adviser's attempts to hedge portfolio risks through the use of derivative instruments may not be successful, and the Investment Adviser may choose not to hedge portfolio risks. Using derivatives for non-hedging purposes is considered a speculative practice and presents greater risk of loss than derivatives used for hedging purposes.

***Risks of Illiquid Investments.*** Each Fund may not acquire any "illiquid investment" if, immediately after the acquisition, the Fund would have invested more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments that are assets. An "illiquid investment" is any investment that a Fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. In determining whether an investment is an illiquid investment, the Investment Adviser will take into account actual or estimated daily transaction volume of an investment, group of related investments or asset class and other relevant market, trading, and investment-specific considerations. In addition, in determining the liquidity of an investment, the Investment Adviser must determine whether trading varying portions of a position in a particular portfolio investment or asset class, in sizes that a Fund would reasonably anticipate trading, is reasonably expected to significantly affect its liquidity, and if so, the Fund must take this determination into account when classifying the liquidity of that investment or asset class.

Investments purchased by a Fund that are liquid at the time of purchase may subsequently become illiquid. If one or more investments in a Fund's portfolio become illiquid, the Fund may exceed the 15 percent limitation in illiquid investments. In the event that changes in the portfolio or other external events cause a Fund to exceed this limit, the Fund must take steps to bring its illiquid investments that are assets to or below 15% of its net assets within a reasonable period of time. This requirement would not force a Fund to liquidate any portfolio instrument where the Fund would suffer a loss on the sale of that instrument.

In cases where no clear indication of the value of a Fund's portfolio instruments is available, the portfolio instruments may be valued at their fair value according to the valuation procedures approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees. These cases include, among others, situations where a security or other asset or liability does not have a price source, or the secondary markets on which an investment has previously been traded are no longer viable, due to its lack of liquidity. For more information on fair valuation, please see "Shareholder Guide—Net Asset Value."

***Credit/Default Risks.*** Debt securities purchased by the Funds may include U.S. Government Securities (including zero coupon bonds) and securities issued by foreign governments, domestic and foreign corporations, banks and other issuers. Some of these fixed income securities are described in the next section below. Further information is provided in the SAI.

Certain Funds also have credit rating requirements for the securities they buy, which are applied at the time of purchase. For this purpose, each Fund relies only on the ratings of the following NRSROs: Standard & Poor's, Moody's and Fitch, Inc. Unrated

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securities may be purchased by a Fund if they are determined by the Investment Adviser to be of a credit quality consistent with the Fund's credit rating requirements.

Debt securities rated BBB– or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa3 or higher by Moody's or having a comparable credit rating by another NRSRO are considered "investment grade." Securities rated BBB– or Baa3 are considered medium-grade obligations with speculative characteristics, and adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances may weaken their issuers' capacity to pay interest and repay principal. For the purpose of determining compliance with any credit rating requirement, each Fund assigns a security, at the time of purchase, the highest rating by an NRSRO if the security is rated by more than one NRSRO. Therefore, a security will be deemed to have met a rating requirement if it receives the minimum required rating from at least one such rating organization even though it has been rated below the minimum rating by one or more other rating organizations, or if unrated by such rating organizations, the security is determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality.

A security satisfies a Fund's minimum rating requirement regardless of its relative ranking (for example, plus or minus) within a designated major rating category (for example, BBB or Baa). If a security satisfies a Fund's minimum rating requirement at the time of purchase and is subsequently downgraded below that rating, the Fund will not be required to dispose of the security. If a downgrade occurs, the Investment Adviser will consider which action, including the sale of the security, is in the best interest of a Fund and its shareholders.

Fixed income securities rated BB+ or Ba1 or below (or comparable unrated securities) are commonly referred to as "junk bonds." Junk bonds are considered speculative and may be questionable as to principal and interest payments.

In some cases, junk bonds may be highly speculative, have poor prospects for reaching investment grade standing and be in default. As a result, investment in such bonds will present greater speculative risks than those associated with investment in investment grade bonds. Also, to the extent that the rating assigned to a security in a Fund's portfolio is downgraded by a rating organization, the market price and liquidity of such security may be adversely affected.

***Risks of Initial Public Offerings.*** The Funds may invest in IPOs. An IPO is a company's first offering of stock to the public. IPO risk is the risk that the market value of IPO shares will fluctuate considerably due to factors such as the absence of a prior public market, unseasoned trading, the small number of shares available for trading and limited information about a company's business model, ****quality of management, earnings growth potential and other criteria used to evaluate its investment prospects. The purchase of IPO shares may involve high transaction costs. Investments in IPO shares, which are subject to market risk and liquidity risk, involve greater risks than investments in shares of companies that have traded publicly on an exchange for extended periods of time. When a Fund's asset base is small, a significant portion of the Fund's performance could be attributable to investments in IPOs, because such investments would have a magnified impact on the Fund. As the Fund's assets grow, the effect of the Fund's investments in IPOs on the Fund's performance probably will decline, which could reduce the Fund's performance. Because of the price volatility of IPO shares, a Fund may choose to hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of the Fund's portfolio and may lead to increased expenses to the Fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. By selling IPO shares, the Fund may realize taxable gains it will subsequently distribute to shareholders. In addition, the market for IPO shares can be speculative and/or inactive for extended periods of time. There is no assurance that a Fund will be able to obtain allocable portions of IPO shares. The limited number of shares available for trading in some IPOs may make it more difficult for a Fund to buy or sell significant amounts of shares without an unfavorable impact on prevailing prices. Investors in IPO shares can be affected by substantial dilution in the value of their shares, by sales of additional shares and by concentration of control in existing management and principal shareholders.

***Risks of Pre-IPO Investments.*** Privately held companies typically have limited operating histories, narrower, less established product lines and smaller market shares than larger businesses, which tend to render them more vulnerable to competitors' actions, market conditions and consumer sentiment in respect of their products or services, as well as general economic downturns. Such companies may experience operating losses, which may be substantial, and there can be no assurance when or if such companies will operate at a profit. At the time of a Fund's investment, there is generally little publicly available information about these companies since they are primarily privately owned and the Fund may only have access to the company's actual financial results as of and for the most recent quarter end or, in certain cases, the quarter end preceding the most recent quarter end. There can be no assurance that the information that a Fund does obtain with respect to any investment is reliable. Privately held companies may have limited financial resources and may be unable to meet their obligations under their existing credit facilities (to the extent that such facilities exist), which may lead to equity financings, possibly at discounted valuations, in which a Fund could be substantially diluted if the Fund does not or cannot participate, bankruptcy or liquidation and the corresponding reduction in value or loss of the Fund's investment. Privately held companies are more likely to depend on the management talents and efforts of a

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APPENDIX A

small group of persons; therefore, the death, disability, resignation or termination of one or more of these persons could have a material adverse impact on the company and, in turn, on a Fund. Continued global economic uncertainty could also result in investors becoming more risk-averse, which in turn could reduce the amount of growth capital available to the companies from both existing and new investors, could adversely affect their operating performance, and could delay liquidity paths (for example, an IPO or strategic sale/merger) for the companies. It may be difficult for a Fund to sell these investments, subjecting the Fund to liquidity risk. Shares of privately held companies are relatively less liquid (and may be illiquid) and difficult to value, and the inability of these portfolio companies to complete an IPO within the targeted time frame will extend the holding period of a Fund's investments and may adversely affect the value of these investments.

***Risks of Investing in Master Limited Partnerships.*** Each Fund may invest in MLPs. Investments in securities of an MLP involve risks that differ from investments in common stock, including risks related to limited control and limited rights to vote on matters affecting the MLP, risks related to potential conflicts of interest between the MLP and the MLP's general partner, cash flow risks, dilution risks and risks related to the general partner's right to require unit-holders to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price, resulting from regulatory changes or other reasons. Certain MLP securities may trade in lower volumes due to their smaller capitalizations. Accordingly, those MLPs may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements and may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable a Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. Investment in those MLPs may restrict the Fund's ability to take advantage of other investment opportunities. MLPs are generally considered interest-rate sensitive investments. During periods of interest rate volatility, these investments may not provide attractive returns. Depending on the state of interest rates in general, the use of MLPs could enhance or harm the overall performance of the Fund.

MLPs are subject to various risks related to the underlying operating companies they control, including dependence upon specialized management skills and the risk that those operating companies may lack or have limited operating histories. The success of a Fund's investments in an MLP will vary depending on the underlying industry represented by the MLP's portfolio. Certain MLPs in which a Fund may invest depend upon their parent or sponsor entities for the majority of their revenues. If the parent or sponsor entities fail to make payments or satisfy their obligations to an MLP, the revenues and cash flows of that MLP and ability of that MLP to make distributions to unit holders such as the Fund would be adversely affected.

Certain MLPs in which a Fund invests depend upon a limited number of customers for substantially all of their revenue. Similarly, certain MLPs in which a Fund may invest depend upon a limited number of suppliers of goods or services to continue their operations. The loss of those customers or suppliers could have a material adverse effect on an MLP's results of operations and cash flow, and on its ability to make distributions to unit holders such as the Fund.

Each Fund must recognize income that it receives from underlying MLPs for tax purposes, even if the Fund does not receive cash distributions from the MLPs in an amount necessary to pay such tax liability. In addition, a percentage of a distribution received by a Fund as the holder of the MLP interest may be treated as a return of capital, which would reduce the Fund's adjusted tax basis in the interests of the MLP, which will result in an increase in the amount of income or gain (or decrease in the amount of loss) that will be recognized by the Fund for tax purposes upon the sale of any such interests or upon subsequent distributions in respect of such interests. Furthermore, any return of capital distribution received from the MLP may require a Fund to restate the character of its distributions and amend any shareholder tax reporting previously issued.

MLPs generally do not pay U.S. federal income tax at the partnership level. Rather, each partner is allocated a share of the partnership's income, gains, losses, deductions and expenses. A change in current tax law, or a change in the underlying business mix of a given MLP, could result in an MLP being treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which would result in the MLP being required to pay U.S. federal income tax (as well as state and local income taxes) on its taxable income. The classification of an MLP as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes would have the effect of reducing the amount of cash available for distribution by the MLP. If any MLP in which a Fund invests were treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, it could result in a reduction of the value of the Fund's investment in the MLP and lower income to the Fund.

***Temporary Investment Risks.*** Each Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes (and to the extent that it is permitted to invest in the following), invest up to 100% of its total assets in:

⬛ U.S. Government Securities

⬛ Commercial paper rated at least A-2 by Standard & Poor's, P-2 by Moody's or having a comparable credit rating by another NRSRO (or, if unrated, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality)

⬛ Certificates of deposit

⬛ Bankers' acceptances

⬛ Repurchase agreements

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⬛ Non-convertible preferred stocks and non-convertible corporate bonds with a remaining maturity of less than one year

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | ETFs  |

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⬛ Other investment companies

⬛ Cash items

When a Fund's assets are invested in such instruments, the Fund may not be achieving its investment objective.

C. Portfolio Securities and Techniques

This section provides further information on certain types of securities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associated risks.

The Funds may purchase other types of securities or instruments similar to those described in this section if otherwise consistent with the Fund's investment objective and policies. Further information is provided in the SAI, which is available upon request.

***Convertible Securities.*** Each Fund may invest in convertible securities. Convertible securities are preferred stock or debt obligations that are convertible into common stock. Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar quality. Convertible securities in which a Fund invests are subject to the same rating criteria as its other investments in fixed income securities. Convertible securities have both equity and fixed income risk characteristics. Like all fixed income securities, the value of convertible securities is susceptible to the risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest rates. Generally, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security exceeds the conversion price of the convertible security, the convertible security tends to reflect the market price of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security, like a fixed income security, tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and thus may not decline in price to the same extent as the underlying common stock.

***Foreign Currency Transactions.*** The Funds may, to the extent consistent with their investment policies, purchase or sell foreign currencies on a cash basis or through forward contracts. A forward contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. A Fund may engage in foreign currency transactions for hedging purposes and to seek to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates. In addition, certain Funds may enter into foreign currency transactions to seek a closer correlation between the Fund's overall currency exposures and the currency exposures of the Fund's performance benchmark. Certain Funds may also enter into such transactions to seek to increase total return, which presents additional risk.

The Funds (except for the Growth Opportunities ETF) may also engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in a currency different from that in which the hedged security is denominated or quoted. A Fund may hold foreign currency received in connection with investments in foreign securities when, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, it would be beneficial to convert such currency into U.S. dollars at a later date (*e.g*., the Investment Adviser may anticipate the foreign currency to appreciate against the U.S. dollar).

Certain Funds may, from time to time, engage in non-deliverable forward transactions to manage currency risk or to gain exposure to a currency without purchasing securities denominated in that currency. A non-deliverable forward is a transaction that represents an agreement between a Fund and a counterparty (usually a commercial bank) to pay the other party the amount that it would cost based on current market rates as of the termination date to buy or sell a specified (notional) amount of a particular currency at an agreed upon foreign exchange rate on an agreed upon future date. If the counterparty defaults, a Fund will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreement related to the transaction, but the Fund may be delayed or prevented from obtaining payments owed to it pursuant to non-deliverable forward transactions. Such non-deliverable forward transactions will be settled in cash.

Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time, causing, along with other factors, a Fund's NAV to fluctuate (when the Fund's NAV fluctuates, the value of your shares may go up or down). Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by the intervention of U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad.

Certain forward foreign currency exchange contracts and other currency transactions are not exchange traded or cleared. The market in such forward foreign currency exchange contracts, currency swaps and other privately negotiated currency instruments offers less protection against defaults by the other party to such instruments than is available for currency instruments traded on an exchange. Such contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the contract will default on its obligations. Because these

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APPENDIX A

contracts are not guaranteed by an exchange or clearinghouse, a default on a contract would deprive a Fund of unrealized profits, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or could force the Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price.

A Fund is not required to post cash collateral with its counterparties in certain foreign currency transactions. Accordingly, a Fund may remain more fully invested (and more of the Fund's assets may be subject to investment and market risk) than if it were required to post collateral with its counterparties (which is the case with certain transactions). Where a Fund's counterparties are not required to post cash collateral with the Fund, the Fund will be subject to additional counterparty risk.

***Structured Securities.*** Each Fund may invest in structured securities. Structured securities are securities whose value is determined by reference to changes in the value of specific currencies, securities, interest rates, commodities, indices or other financial indicators (the "Reference") or the relative change in two or more References. Investments in structured securities may provide exposure to certain securities or markets in situations where regulatory or other restrictions prevent direct investments in such issuers or markets.

The interest rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. Structured securities may be positively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may produce an increase or decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition, changes in the interest rates or the value of the security at maturity may be a multiple of changes in the value of the Reference, effectively leveraging the Fund's investments so that small changes in the value of the Reference may result in disproportionate gains or losses to the Fund. Consequently, structured securities may present a greater degree of market risk than many types of securities and may be more volatile, less liquid and more difficult to price accurately than less complex securities. Structured securities are also subject to the risk that the issuer of the structured securities may fail to perform its contractual obligations. Certain issuers of structured products may be deemed to be investment companies as defined in the Investment Company Act. As a result, a Fund's investments in structured securities may be subject to the limits applicable to investments in other investment companies.

Structured securities are considered hybrid instruments because they are derivative instruments, the value of which depends on, or is derived from or linked to, the value of an underlying asset, interest rate index or commodity. Commodity-linked notes are hybrid instruments because the principal and/or interest payments on those notes is linked to the value of the individual commodities, futures contracts or the performance of one or more commodity indices.

Structured securities include, but are not limited to, equity linked notes. An equity linked note is a note whose performance is tied to a single stock, a stock index or a basket of stocks. Equity linked notes combine the principal protection normally associated with fixed income investments with the potential for capital appreciation normally associated with equity investments. Upon the maturity of the note, the holder generally receives a return of principal based on the capital appreciation of the linked securities.

Depending on the terms of the note, equity linked notes may also have a "cap" or "floor" on the maximum principal amount to be repaid to holders, irrespective of the performance of the underlying linked securities. For example, a note may guarantee the repayment of the original principal amount invested (even if the underlying linked securities have negative performance during the note's term), but may cap the maximum payment at maturity at a certain percentage of the issuance price or the return of the underlying linked securities. Alternatively, the note may not guarantee a full return on the original principal, but may offer a greater participation in any capital appreciation of the underlying linked securities. The terms of an equity linked note may also provide for periodic interest payments to holders at either a fixed or floating rate. The secondary market for equity linked notes may be limited, and the lack of liquidity in the secondary market may make these securities difficult to dispose of and to value. Equity linked notes will be considered equity securities for purposes of a Fund's investment objective and policies.

***REITs.*** Each Fund may invest in REITs. REITs are pooled investment vehicles that invest primarily in either real estate or real estate related loans. The value of a REIT is affected by changes in the value of the properties owned by the REIT or securing mortgage loans held by the REIT. REITs are dependent upon the ability of the REITs' managers, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers and the qualification of the REITs under applicable regulatory requirements for favorable income tax treatment. REITs are also subject to risks generally associated with investments in real estate including possible declines in the value of real estate, general and local economic conditions, environmental problems and changes in interest rates. To the extent that assets underlying a REIT are concentrated geographically, by property type or in certain other respects, these risks may be heightened. A Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses, including management fees, paid by a REIT in which it invests.

***Options on Securities, Securities Indices and Foreign Currencies.*** A put option gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying instrument during the option period. A call option gives

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the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying instrument during the option period. Each Fund may write (sell) call and put options and purchase call and put options on any securities and other instruments in which it may invest or any index consisting of securities or other instruments in which it may invest. A Fund may also, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, purchase and write (sell) put and call options on foreign currencies.

The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves special investment risks. Options maybe used for either hedging or cross-hedging purposes, or to seek to increase total return (which presents additional risk). The successful use of options depends in part on the ability of the Investment Adviser to anticipate future price fluctuations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities (or currency) markets. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of changes in market prices or determination of the correlation between the instruments or indices on which options are written and purchased and the instruments in a Fund's investment portfolio, the Fund may incur losses that it would not otherwise incur. The use of options can also increase a Fund's transaction costs. Options written or purchased by the Funds may be traded on either U.S. or foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. Foreign and over-the-counter options will present greater possibility of loss because of their greater illiquidity and credit risks.

In lieu of entering into "protective put" transactions, certain Funds may engage in barrier options transactions as an alternative means to offset or hedge against a decline in the market value of a Fund's securities. Barrier options are similar to standard options except that they become activated or are extinguished when the underlying asset reaches a predetermined level or barrier. "Down and out" barrier options are canceled or "knocked out" if the underlying asset falls to a pre-determined level. "Down and in" barrier options are activated or "knocked in" if the underlying asset falls to a pre-determined level. "Up and out" barrier options are extinguished or "knocked out" if the underlying asset rises to a predetermined level. "Up and in" barrier options are activated or "knocked in" if the underlying asset rises to a predetermined level. If the Investment Adviser sets too high or too low a barrier, and the option is either extinguished or "knocked out" or the options are never activated or "knocked in," the benefits to a Fund using a barrier option strategy may be limited and the costs associated with a barrier option strategy could be detrimental to a Fund's performance.

***Futures Contracts and Options and Swaps on Futures Contracts.*** Futures contracts are standardized, exchange-traded contracts that provide for the sale or purchase of a specified financial instrument or currency at a future time at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right (and the writer of the option the obligation) to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price within a specified period of time. A swap on a futures contract provides an investor with the ability to gain economic exposure to a particular futures market. A futures contract may be based on particular securities, foreign currencies, securities indices and other financial instruments and indices. The Fund may engage in futures transactions on both U.S. and foreign exchanges.

Each Fund may, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, purchase and sell futures contracts, purchase and write call and put options on futures contracts, and enter into swaps on futures contracts, in order to seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates, or to otherwise manage its term structure, sector selections and duration in accordance with its investment objective and policies. Each Fund may also, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, enter into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to such contracts and options.

Futures contracts and related options and swaps present the following risks:

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | While a Fund may benefit from the use of futures and options and swaps on futures, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in poorer overall performance than if the Fund had not entered into any futures contracts, options transactions or swaps.  |

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⬛ Because perfect correlation between a futures position and a portfolio position that is intended to be protected is impossible to achieve, the desired protection may not be obtained and a Fund may be exposed to additional risk of loss.

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|:---|:---|
| ⬛ | The loss incurred by a Fund in entering into futures contracts and in writing call options and entering into swaps on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received.  |

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⬛ Futures markets are highly volatile and the use of futures may increase the volatility of a Fund's NAV.

⬛ As a result of the low margin deposits normally required in futures trading, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in substantial losses to a Fund.

⬛ Futures contracts and options and swaps on futures may be illiquid, and exchanges may limit fluctuations in futures contract prices during a single day.

⬛ Foreign exchanges may not provide the same protection as U.S. exchanges.

***Equity Swaps.*** Each Fund may invest in equity swaps. Equity swaps allow the parties to a swap agreement to exchange the dividend income or other components of return on an equity investment (for example, a group of equity securities or an index) for

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APPENDIX A

another payment stream. An equity swap may be used by a Fund to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances in which direct investment may be restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise deemed impractical or disadvantageous. Under an equity swap, payments may be made at the conclusion of the equity swap or periodically during its term. Sometimes, however, the Investment Adviser may be able to terminate a swap contract prior to its term, subject to any potential termination fee that is in addition to a Fund's accrued obligations under the swap.

Equity swaps may be structured in different ways. For example, when a Fund takes a long position, a counterparty may agree to pay the Fund the amount, if any, by which the notional amount of the equity swap would have increased in value had it been invested in a particular stock (or group of stocks), plus the dividends that would have been received on the stock. In these cases, a Fund may agree to pay to the counterparty interest on the notional amount of the equity swap plus the amount, if any, by which that notional amount would have decreased in value had it been invested in such stock (or group of stocks). Therefore, in this case the return to the Fund on the equity swap should be the gain or loss on the notional amount plus dividends on the stock less the interest paid by the Fund on the notional amount. In other cases, when a Fund takes a short position, a counterparty may agree to pay the Fund the amount, if any, by which the notional amount of the equity swap would have decreased in value had the Fund sold a particular stock (or group of stocks) short, less the dividend expense that the Fund would have paid on the stock (or group of stocks), as adjusted for interest payments or other economic factors.

The value of swaps can be very volatile. To the extent that the Investment Adviser does not accurately analyze and predict the potential relative fluctuation of the components swapped with another party, future market trends, the values of assets or economic factors, or the creditworthiness of the counterparty, a Fund may suffer a loss, which may be substantial. The value of some components of a swap (such as the dividends on a common stock) may also be sensitive to changes in interest rates. Furthermore, swaps may be illiquid, and a Fund may be unable to terminate its obligations when desired.

Currently, certain standardized swap transactions are subject to mandatory central clearing and exchange trading. Although central clearing and exchange trading is expected to decrease counterparty risk and increase liquidity compared to bilaterally negotiated swaps, central clearing and exchange trading does not eliminate counterparty risk or illiquidity risk entirely. Depending on the size of the Fund and other factors, the margin required under the rules of a clearinghouse and by a clearing member may be in excess of the collateral required to be posted by the Fund to support its obligations under a similar bilateral, uncleared swap. However, certain applicable regulators have adopted rules imposing certain margin requirements, including minimums, on uncleared swaps which may result in the Fund and its counterparties posting higher amounts for uncleared swaps.

***When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments.*** Each Fund may purchase when-issued securities and make contracts to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond customary settlement time. When-issued securities are securities that have been authorized, but not yet issued. When-issued securities are purchased in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price and yield to the Fund at the time of entering into the transaction. A forward commitment involves the entering into a contract to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond the customary settlement period.

The purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines before the settlement date. Conversely, the sale of securities on a forward commitment basis involves the risk that the value of the securities sold may increase before the settlement date. Although a Fund will generally purchase securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis with the intention of acquiring the securities for its portfolio, the Fund may dispose of when-issued securities or forward commitments prior to settlement if the Investment Adviser deems it appropriate.

***Repurchase Agreements.*** Repurchase agreements involve the purchase of securities subject to the seller's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price. Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with counterparties approved by the Investment Adviser pursuant to procedures approved by the Board of Trustees that furnish collateral at least equal in value or market price to the amount of their repurchase obligation. The collateral may consist of any type of security (government or corporate) of any or no credit rating. Repurchase agreements involving obligations other than U.S. Government Securities may be subject to additional risks.

If the other party or "seller" defaults, a Fund might suffer a loss to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of the underlying securities and other collateral held by the Fund are less than the repurchase price and the Fund's costs associated with delay and enforcement of the repurchase agreement. In addition, in the event of bankruptcy of the seller, a Fund could suffer additional losses if a court determines that the Fund's interest in the collateral is not enforceable.

Certain Funds, together with other registered investment companies having advisory agreements with the Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a single joint account, the daily aggregate balance of which will be invested in one or more repurchase agreements.

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***Lending of Portfolio Securities.*** Each Fund may engage in securities lending. Securities lending involves the lending of securities owned by a Fund to financial institutions such as certain broker-dealers including, as permitted by the SEC, Goldman Sachs. The borrowers are required to secure their loans continuously with cash, cash equivalents, U.S. Government Securities or letters of credit in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. Cash collateral may be invested by a Fund in short-term investments, including registered and unregistered investment pools managed by the Investment Adviser, its affiliates or the Funds' custodian and from which the Investment Adviser or its affiliates may receive fees. To the extent that cash collateral is so invested, such collateral will be subject to market depreciation or appreciation, and a Fund will be responsible for any loss that might result from its investment of the borrowers' collateral. If the Investment Adviser determines to make securities loans, the value of the securities loaned may not exceed 331/3% of the value of the total assets of a Fund (including the loan collateral). Loan collateral (including any investment of the collateral) is not subject to the percentage limitations described elsewhere in the Prospectus regarding investments in fixed income securities and cash equivalents.

A Fund may lend its securities to increase its income. A Fund may, however, experience delay in the recovery of its securities or incur a loss if the institution with which it has engaged in a portfolio loan transaction breaches its agreement with the Fund or its agent, or becomes insolvent.

***Short Sales Against-the-Box.*** The Funds may make short sales against-the-box. A short sale against-the-box means that at all times when a short position is open the Fund will own an equal amount of securities sold short, or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, without payment of any further consideration, an equal amount of the securities of the same issuer as the securities sold short.

***Preferred Stock, Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights.*** Each Fund may invest in preferred stock, warrants and stock purchase rights (or "rights"). Preferred stocks are securities that represent an ownership interest providing the holder with claims on the issuer's earnings and assets before common stock owners but after bond owners. Unlike debt securities, the obligations of an issuer of preferred stock, including dividend and other payment obligations, may not typically be accelerated by the holders of such preferred stock on the ****occurrence of an event of default or other non-compliance by the issuer of the preferred stock. Warrants and other rights are options to buy a stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price at any time during the life of the warrant or right. The holders of warrants and rights have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer.

***Other Investment Companies.*** Each Fund may invest in securities of other investment companies, including ETFs and money market funds, subject to statutory limitations prescribed by the Investment Company Act or rules, regulations or exemptive relief thereunder. These statutory limitations include in certain circumstances a prohibition on any Fund acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any other investment company, and a prohibition on investing more than 5% of a Fund's total assets in securities of any one investment company or more than 10% of total assets in securities of all investment companies.

Subject to applicable law and/or pursuant to an exemptive order obtained from the SEC or under an exemptive rule adopted by the SEC, a Fund may invest in certain other investment companies (including ETFs and money market funds) and business development companies beyond the statutory limits described above or otherwise provided that certain conditions are met. Some of those investment companies may be funds for which the Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates serves as investment adviser, administrator or distributor.

Additionally, to the extent that any Fund serves as an "acquired fund" to another Goldman Sachs Fund or unaffiliated investment company, the Fund's ability to invest in other investment companies and private funds may be limited and, under these circumstances, the Fund's investments in other investment companies and private funds will be consistent with applicable law and/or exemptive rules adopted by or exemptive orders obtained from the SEC. For example, to the extent the Fund serves as an acquired fund in a fund of funds arrangement in reliance on Rule 12d1-4 under the Investment Company Act, the Fund would be prohibited from purchasing or otherwise acquiring the securities of an investment company or private fund if, after such purchase or acquisition, the aggregate value of the Fund's investments in such investment companies and private funds would exceed 10% of the value of the Fund's total assets, subject to limited exceptions (including for investments in money market funds).

The Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such other investment companies, in addition to the fees and expenses regularly borne by the Fund. Although the Fund do not expect to do so in the foreseeable future, the Fund is authorized to invest substantially all of its assets in a single open-end investment company or series thereof that has substantially the same investment objective, policies and fundamental restrictions as the Fund.

The use of ETFs is generally intended to help a fund match the total return of the particular market segments or indices represented by those ETFs, although that may not be the result. Most ETFs are passively-managed investment companies whose shares are

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APPENDIX A

purchased and sold on a securities exchange. An ETF generally represents a portfolio of securities designed to track a particular market segment or index. An investment in an ETF generally presents the same primary risks as an investment in a conventional fund (*i.e*., one that is not exchange-traded) that has the same investment objectives, strategies and policies. In addition, an ETF may fail to accurately track the market segment or index that underlies its investment objective. The price of an ETF can fluctuate, and a Fund could lose money investing in an ETF. Moreover, ETFs are subject to the following risks that do not apply to conventional funds: (i) the market price of the ETF's shares may trade at a premium or a discount to their NAV; (ii) an active trading market for an ETF's shares may not develop or be maintained; and (iii) there is no assurance that the requirements of the exchange necessary to maintain the listing of an ETF will continue to be met or remain unchanged.

***Unseasoned Companies.*** Each Fund may invest in companies which (together with their predecessors) have operated less than three years. The securities of such companies may have limited liquidity, which can result in their being priced higher or lower than might otherwise be the case. In addition, investments in unseasoned companies are more speculative and entail greater risk than investments in companies with an established operating record.

***Private Investments in Public Equity.*** Each Fund may purchase equity securities in a private placement that are issued by issuers who have outstanding, publicly-traded equity securities of the same class ("private investments in public equity" or "PIPEs"). Shares in PIPEs generally are not registered with the SEC until after a certain time period from the date the private sale is completed. This restricted period can last many months. Until the public registration process is completed, PIPEs are restricted as to resale and the Funds cannot freely trade the securities. Generally, such restrictions cause the PIPEs to be illiquid during this time. PIPEs may contain provisions that the issuer will pay specified financial penalties to the holder if the issuer does not publicly register the restricted equity securities within a specified period of time, but there is no assurance that the restricted equity securities will be publicly registered, or that the registration will remain in effect.

***Corporate Debt Obligations.*** Corporate debt obligations include bonds, notes, debentures, commercial paper and other obligations of corporations to pay interest and repay principal. Each Fund may invest in corporate debt obligations issued by U.S. and certain non-U.S. issuers which issue securities denominated in the U.S. dollar (including Yankee and Euro obligations). In addition to obligations of corporations, corporate debt obligations include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions and supranational entities (i.e., the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, etc.).

***Bank Obligations.*** Each Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. or foreign banks. Bank obligations, including without limitation, time deposits, bankers' acceptances and certificates of deposit, may be general obligations of the parent bank or may be limited to the issuing branch by the terms of the specific obligations or by government regulations. Banks are subject to extensive but different governmental regulations which may limit both the amount and types of loans which may be made and interest rates which may be charged. In addition, the profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of funds for the purpose of financing lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. General economic conditions as well as exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers play an important part in the operation of this industry.

***U.S. Government Securities.*** Each Fund may invest in U.S. Government Securities. U.S. Government Securities include U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises.

U.S. Government Securities may be supported by (i) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury; (ii) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; (iii) the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase certain obligations of the issuer; or (iv) only the credit of the issuer. U.S. Government Securities also include Treasury receipts, zero coupon bonds and other stripped U.S. Government Securities, where the interest and principal components are traded independently.

U.S. Government Securities may also include Treasury inflation-protected securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation.

U.S. Government Securities are deemed to include (i) securities for which the payment of principal and interest is backed by an irrevocable letter of credit issued by the U.S. government, its agencies, authorities or instrumentalities; and (ii) participations in loans made to foreign governments or their agencies that are so guaranteed. Certain of these participations may be regarded as illiquid.

U.S. Government Securities have historically involved little risk of loss of principal if held to maturity. However, no assurance can be given that the U.S. government will be able or willing to repay the principal or interest when due, or provide financial support to U.S. government agencies, authorities, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises if it is not obligated to do so by law.

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***Custodial Receipts and Trust Certificates.*** Each Fund may invest in custodial receipts and trust certificates representing interests in securities held by a custodian or trustee. The securities so held may include U.S. Government Securities or other types of securities in which a Fund may invest. The custodial receipts or trust certificates may evidence ownership of future interest payments, principal payments or both on the underlying securities, or, in some cases, the payment obligation of a third party that has entered into an interest rate swap or other arrangement with the custodian or trustee. For certain securities laws purposes, custodial receipts and trust certificates may not be considered obligations of the U.S. government or other issuer of the securities held by the custodian or trustee. If for tax purposes a Fund is not considered to be the owner of the underlying securities held in the custodial or trust account, the Fund may suffer adverse tax consequences. As a holder of custodial receipts and trust certificates, a Fund will bear its proportionate share of the fees and expenses charged to the custodial account or trust. Each Fund may also invest in separately issued interests in custodial receipts and trust certificates.

***Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities.*** Non-investment grade fixed-income securities and unrated securities of comparable credit quality (commonly referred to as "junk bonds") are considered speculative. In some cases, these obligations may be highly speculative and have poor prospects for reaching investment grade standing. Non-investment grade fixed income securities are subject to the increased risk of an issuer's inability to meet principal and interest obligations. These securities, also referred to as high yield securities, may be subject to greater price volatility due to such factors as specific issuer developments, interest rate sensitivity, negative perceptions of the junk bond markets generally and less liquidity.

Non-investment grade fixed income securities are often issued in connection with a corporate reorganization or restructuring or as part of a merger, acquisition, takeover or similar event. They are also issued by less established companies seeking to expand. Such issuers are often highly leveraged and generally less able than more established or less leveraged entities to make scheduled payments of principal and interest in the event of adverse developments or business conditions. Non-investment grade securities are also issued by governmental bodies that may have difficulty in making all scheduled interest and principal payments.

The market value of non-investment grade fixed income securities tends to reflect individual corporate or municipal developments to a greater extent than that of higher rated securities which react primarily to fluctuations in the general level of interest rates. As a result, the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objectives may depend to a greater extent on the Investment Adviser's judgment concerning the creditworthiness of issuers than funds which invest in higher-rated securities. Issuers of non-investment grade fixed income securities may not be able to make use of more traditional methods of financing and their ability to service debt obligations may be affected more adversely than issuers of higher-rated securities by economic downturns, specific corporate or financial developments or the issuer's inability to meet specific projected business forecasts. Negative publicity about the junk bond market and investor perceptions regarding lower rated securities, whether or not based on fundamental analysis, may depress the prices for such securities.

A holder's risk of loss from default is significantly greater for non-investment grade fixed income securities than is the case for holders of other debt securities because such non-investment grade securities are generally unsecured and are often subordinated to the rights of other creditors of the issuers of such securities. Investment by the Fund in defaulted securities poses additional risk of loss should nonpayment of principal and interest continue in respect of such securities. Even if such securities are held to maturity, recovery by the Fund of its initial investment and any anticipated income or appreciation is uncertain.

The secondary market for non-investment grade fixed income securities is concentrated in relatively few market makers and is dominated by institutional investors, including mutual funds, insurance companies and other financial institutions. Accordingly, the secondary market for such securities is not as liquid as, and is more volatile than, the secondary market for higher-rated securities. In addition, market trading volume for high yield fixed income securities is generally lower and the secondary market for such securities could shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse market or economic conditions, independent of any specific adverse changes in the condition of a particular issuer. The lack of sufficient market liquidity may cause the Fund to incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and then only at a substantial drop in price. These factors may have an adverse effect on the market price and the Fund's ability to dispose of particular portfolio investments. A less liquid secondary market also may make it more difficult for the Fund to obtain precise valuations of the high yield securities in its portfolio.

Credit ratings issued by credit rating agencies are designed to evaluate the safety of principal and interest payments of rated securities. They do not, however, evaluate the market value risk of non-investment grade securities and, therefore, may not fully reflect the true risks of an investment. In addition, credit rating agencies may or may not make timely changes in a rating to reflect changes in the economy or in the conditions of the issuer that affect the market value of the security. Consequently, credit ratings are used only as a preliminary indicator of investment quality.

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APPENDIX A

***Mortgage-Backed Securities.*** Each Fund may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect participations in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. Mortgage-backed securities can be backed by either fixed rate mortgage loans or adjustable rate mortgage loans, and may be issued by either a governmental or non-governmental entity. The value of some mortgage backed securities may be particularly sensitive to changes in prevailing interest rates. The value of these securities may also fluctuate in response to the market's perception of the creditworthiness of the issuers. Early repayment of principal on mortgage- or asset-backed securities may expose a Fund to the risk of earning a lower rate of return upon reinvestment of principal.

The Funds may invest in privately-issued mortgage pass-through securities that represent interests in pools of mortgage loans that are issued by trusts formed by originators of and institutional investors in mortgage loans (or represent interests in custodial arrangements administered by such institutions). These originators and institutions include commercial banks, savings and loans associations, credit unions, savings banks, mortgage bankers, insurance companies, investment banks or special purpose subsidiaries of the foregoing. The pools underlying privately-issued mortgage pass-through securities consist of mortgage loans secured by mortgages or deeds of trust creating a first lien on commercial, residential, residential multi-family and mixed residential/commercial properties. These mortgage-backed securities typically do not have the same credit standing as U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities.

Privately-issued mortgage pass-through securities generally offer a higher yield than similar securities issued by a government entity because of the absence of any direct or indirect government or agency payment guarantees. However, timely payment of interest and principal on mortgage loans in these pools may be supported by various other forms of insurance or guarantees, including individual loan, pool and hazard insurance, subordination and letters of credit. Such insurance and guarantees may be issued by private insurers, banks and mortgage poolers. There is no guarantee that private guarantors or insurers, if any, will meet their obligations. Mortgage-backed securities without insurance or guarantees may also be purchased by the Fund if they have the required rating from an NRSRO. Mortgage-backed securities issued by private organizations may not be readily marketable, may be more difficult to value accurately and may be more volatile than similar securities issued by a government entity.

Mortgage-backed securities may include multiple class securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit ("REMIC") pass-through or participation certificates. A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment and invests in certain mortgages principally secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments. CMOs provide an investor with a specified interest in the cash flow from a pool of underlying mortgages or of other mortgage-backed securities. CMOs are issued in multiple classes each with a specified fixed or floating interest rate and a final scheduled distribution rate. In many cases, payments of principal are applied to the CMO classes in the order of their respective stated maturities, so that no principal payments will be made on a CMO class until all other classes having an earlier stated maturity date are paid in full.

Sometimes, however, CMO classes are "parallel pay," i.e., payments of principal are made to two or more classes concurrently. In some cases, CMOs may have the characteristics of a stripped mortgage-backed security whose price can be highly volatile. CMOs may exhibit more or less price volatility and interest rate risk than other types of mortgage-related obligations, and under certain interest rate and payment scenarios, a Fund may fail to recoup fully its investment in certain of these securities regardless of their credit quality.

Mortgaged-backed securities also include stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"), which are derivative multiple class mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two different classes: one that receives substantially all of the interest payments and the other that receives substantially all of the principal payments from a pool of mortgage loans. The market value of SMBS consisting entirely of principal payments generally is unusually volatile in response to changes in interest rates.

The yields on SMBS that receive all or most of the interest from mortgage loans are generally higher than prevailing market yields on other mortgage-backed securities because their cash flow patterns are more volatile and there is a greater risk that the initial investment will not be fully recouped. Throughout 2008, the market for mortgage-backed securities began experiencing substantially, often dramatically, lower valuations and greatly reduced liquidity. Markets for other asset-backed securities have also been affected. These instruments are increasingly subject to liquidity constraints, price volatility, credit downgrades and unexpected increases in default rates and, therefore, may be more difficult to value and more difficult to dispose of than previously. These events may have an adverse effect on the Funds to the extent they invest in mortgage-backed or other fixed income securities or instruments affected by the volatility in the fixed income markets.

***Asset-Backed Securities.*** Each Fund may invest in asset-backed securities. Asset-backed securities are securities whose principal and interest payments are collateralized by pools of assets such as auto loans, credit card receivables, leases, installment contracts and personal property. Asset-backed securities may also include home equity line of credit loans and other second-lien mortgages.

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Asset-backed securities are often subject to more rapid repayment than their stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of prepayments of principal on the underlying loans. During periods of declining interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be expected to accelerate. Accordingly, a Fund's ability to maintain positions in such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest rates at that time. Asset-backed securities present credit risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. This is because asset-backed securities generally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. Some asset-backed securities have only a subordinated claim or security interest in collateral. If the issuer of an asset-backed security defaults on its payment obligations, there is the possibility that, in some cases, the Fund will be unable to possess and sell the underlying collateral and that the Fund's recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support payments on the securities. In the event of a default, a Fund may suffer a loss if it cannot sell collateral quickly and receive the amount it is owed. There is no guarantee that private guarantors, or insurers of an asset-backed security, if any, will meet their obligations. The value of some asset-backed securities may be particularly sensitive to changes in prevailing interest rates. Asset-backed securities may also be subject to increased volatility and may become illiquid and more difficult to value even when there is no default or threat of default due to the market's perception of the creditworthiness of the issuers and market conditions impacting asset-backed securities more generally.

***Borrowings.*** Each Fund can borrow money from banks and other financial institutions in amounts not exceeding one-third of its total assets (including the amount borrowed or received), for temporary or emergency purposes.

***Interest Rate Swaps, Mortgage Swaps, Credit Swaps, Currency Swaps, Total Return Swaps, Equity Swaps and Options on Swaps.*** Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, such as an exchange of fixed-rate payments for floating rate payments. Mortgage swaps are similar to interest rate swaps in that they represent commitments to pay and receive interest. The notional principal amount, however, is tied to a reference pool or pools of mortgages. Credit swaps involve the receipt of floating or fixed rate payments in exchange for assuming potential credit losses on an underlying security or pool of securities. Credit swaps give one party to a transaction (the buyer of the credit swap) the right to dispose of or acquire an asset (or group of assets or exposure to the performance of an index), or the right to receive a payment from the other party, upon the occurrence of specified credit events. Currency swaps involve the exchange of the parties' respective rights to make or receive payments in specified currencies. Total return swaps give a party the right to receive the appreciation in the value of a specified security, index or other instrument in return for a fee paid to the counterparty, which will typically be based on an agreed upon interest rate. If the underlying asset in a total return swap declines in value over the term of the swap, the party may also be required to pay the dollar value of that decline to the counterparty. Equity swaps allow the parties to a swap agreement to exchange the dividend income or other components of return on an equity investment (for example, a group of equity securities or an index) for another payment stream. An equity swap may be used by a Fund to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances in which direct investment may be restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise deemed impractical or disadvantageous.

A Fund may also purchase and write (sell) options contracts on swaps, commonly referred to as swaptions. A swaption is an option to enter into a swap agreement. Like other types of options, the buyer of a swaption pays a non-refundable premium for the option and obtains the right, but not the obligation, to enter into an underlying swap or to modify the terms of an existing swap on agreed-upon terms. The seller of a swaption, in exchange for the premium, becomes obligated (if the option is exercised) to enter into or modify an underlying swap on agreed-upon terms, which generally entails a greater risk of loss than the Fund incurs in buying a swaption.

The Enhanced U.S. Equity Fund may enter into the transactions described above for hedging purposes or to seek to increase total return. As an example, when the Fund is the buyer of a credit default swap (commonly known as buying protection), it may make periodic payments to the seller of the credit default swap to obtain protection against a credit default on a specified underlying asset (or group of assets). If a default occurs, the seller of a credit default swap may be required to pay the Fund the notional amount of the credit default swap on a specified security (or group of securities). On the other hand, when the Fund is a seller of a credit default swap (commonly known as selling protection), in addition to the credit exposure the Fund has on the other assets held in its portfolio, the Fund is also subject to the credit exposure on the notional amount of the swap since, in the event of a credit default, the Fund may be required to pay the notional amount of the credit default swap on a specified security (or group of securities) to the buyer of the credit default swap. The Fund will be the seller of a credit default swap only when the credit of the underlying asset is deemed by the Investment Adviser to meet the Fund's minimum credit criteria at the time the swap is first entered into.

The use of interest rate, mortgage, credit, currency, total return and equity swaps and options on swaps is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its forecasts of market values, interest rates and currency exchange rates, or in its

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APPENDIX A

evaluation of the creditworthiness of swap counterparties and the issuers of the underlying assets, the investment performance of a Fund would be less favorable than it would have been if these investment techniques were not used.

Currently, certain standardized swap transactions are subject to mandatory central clearing and exchange trading. Although central clearing and exchange trading is expected to decrease counterparty risk and increase liquidity compared to bilaterally negotiated swaps, central clearing and exchange trading does not eliminate counterparty risk or illiquidity risk entirely. Depending on the size of the Fund and other factors, the margin required under the rules of a clearinghouse and by a clearing member may be in excess of the collateral required to be posted by a Fund to support its obligations under a similar bilateral, uncleared swap. However, certain applicable regulators have adopted rules imposing certain margin requirements, including minimums, on uncleared swaps which may result in the Fund and its counterparties posting higher amounts for uncleared swaps.

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Appendix B

Financial Highlights

The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand the Fund's financial performance for the past five years. The financial highlights information in the following table for the Fund's Shares represents the financial highlights of the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares for the fiscal periods indicated. It is currently contemplated that the predecessor fund will be reorganized into the Fund in the third quarter of 2025.

Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned or lost on an investment in the predecessor fund's Institutional Shares (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). The information for the predecessor fund for the six months ended February 28, 2025, has not been audited. The information for each predecessor fund for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024 has been audited by [ ], whose report, along with the predecessor fund's financial statements, is included in the predecessor fund's Form N-CSR dated [ ]. No information is provided for the Fund's Shares, which were not offered as of [ ].

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Goldman Sachs Enhanced Core Equity Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Enhanced Core Equity Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Enhanced Core Equity Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Enhanced Core Equity Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Enhanced Core Equity Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Enhanced Core Equity Fund** |
|  | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** |
|  | **Six Months Ended<br>February 28, 2025<br>(Unaudited)** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** |
|  | **Six Months Ended<br>February 28, 2025<br>(Unaudited)** | **2024** | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2020** |
| **Per Share Data** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $21.84 | $17.62 | $15.53 | $18.56 | $15.01 | $12.94 |
| Net investment income<sup>(a)</sup> | 0.09 | 0.16 | 0.15 | 0.13 | 0.09 | 0.12 |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 1.08 | 4.28 | 2.59 | (2.04) | 4.31 | 2.70 |
| Total from investment operations | 1.17 | 4.44 | 2.74 | (1.91) | 4.40 | 2.82 |
| Distributions to shareholders from net investment income | (0.13) | (0.08) | (0.12) | (0.09) | (0.11) | (0.13) |
| Distributions to shareholders from net realized gains | (0.38) | (0.14) | (0.53) | (1.03) | (0.74) | (0.62) |
| Total distributions | (0.51) | (0.22) | (0.65) | (1.12) | (0.85) | (0.75) |
| Net asset value, end of period | $22.50 | $21.84 | $17.62 | $15.53 | $18.56 | $15.01 |
| **Total Return<sup>(b)</sup>** | 5.28% | 25.46% | 18.30% | (11.10)% | 30.62% | 22.53% |
| Net assets, end of period (in 000's) | $97836 | $46799 | $12776 | $8832 | $4514 | $594 |
| Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.56 %<sup>(c)</sup> | 0.57% | 0.59% | 0.59% | 0.59% | 0.62% |
| Ratio of total expenses to average net assets | 0.69 %<sup>(c)</sup> | 0.89% | 1.18% | 1.24% | 1.46% | 2.11% |
| Ratio of net investment income to average net assets | 0.78 %<sup>(c)</sup> | 0.82% | 0.91% | 0.78% | 0.54% | 0.95% |
| Portfolio turnover rate<sup>(d)</sup> | 40% | 79% | 63% | 49% | 43% | 69% |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(a)* *Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(b)* *Assumes investment at the NAV at the beginning of the year, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the NAV at the end of the year and no sales or redemption charges (if any). Total returns would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge was taken into account. Returns do not reflect the impact of taxes to shareholders relating to Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(c)* *Annualized.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(d)* *The Fund's portfolio turnover rate is calculated in accordance with regulatory requirements, without regard to transactions involving short term investments. If such transactions were included, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate may be higher.* 

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APPENDIX B

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund** |
|  | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** |
|  | **Six Months Ended<br>February 28, 2025<br>(Unaudited)** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** |
|  | **Six Months Ended<br>February 28, 2025<br>(Unaudited)** | **2024** | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2020** |
| **Per Share Data** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $16.31 | $13.46 | $13.14 | $14.92 | $11.29 | $10.72 |
| Net investment income<sup>(a)</sup> | 0.10 | 0.22 | 0.19 | 0.16 | 0.11 | 0.12 |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 0.90 | 2.86 | 1.46 | (0.97) | 3.77 | 0.63 |
| Total from investment operations | 1.00 | 3.08 | 1.65 | (0.81) | 3.88 | 0.75 |
| Distributions to shareholders from net investment income | (0.21) | (0.20) | (0.16) | (0.11) | (0.11) | (0.07) |
| Distributions to shareholders from net realized gains | (1.26) | (0.03) | (1.17) | (0.86) | (0.14) | (0.11) |
| Total distributions | (1.47) | (0.23) | (1.33) | (0.97) | (0.25) | (0.18) |
| Net asset value, end of period | $15.84 | $16.31 | $13.46 | $13.14 | $14.92 | $11.29 |
| **Total Return<sup>(b)</sup>** | 6.11% | 23.16% | 13.13% | (5.98)% | 34.80% | 7.00% |
| Net assets, end of period (in 000's) | $5591 | $4836 | $2310 | $2167 | $5999 | $871 |
| Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.69 %<sup>(c)</sup> | 0.69% | 0.71% | 0.73% | 0.73% | 0.76% |
| Ratio of total expenses to average net assets | 1.27 %<sup>(c)</sup> | 1.33% | 1.36% | 1.41% | 1.65% | 4.65% |
| Ratio of net investment income to average net assets | 1.25 %<sup>(c)</sup> | 1.50% | 1.46% | 1.10% | 0.82% | 1.13% |
| Portfolio turnover rate<sup>(d)</sup> | 60% | 85% | 82% | 78% | 78% | 102% |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(a)* *Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(b)* *Assumes investment at the NAV at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the NAV at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges (if any). Total returns would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge was taken into account. Returns do not reflect the impact of taxes to shareholders relating to Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total returns for periods less than one full year are not annualized.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(c)* *Annualized.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(d)* *The Fund's portfolio turnover rate is calculated in accordance with regulatory requirements, without regard to transactions involving short term investments and certain derivatives. If such transactions were included, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate may be higher.* 

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---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund** |
|  | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** |
|  | **Six Months Ended<br>February 28, 2025<br>(Unaudited)** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** |
|  | **Six Months Ended<br>February 28, 2025<br>(Unaudited)** | **2024** | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2020** |
| **Per Share Data** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $12.86 | $10.69 | $9.72 | $14.50 | $12.88 | $10.39 |
| Net investment income (loss)<sup>(a)</sup> | (0.01) | (0.01) | — <sup>(b)</sup> | (0.03) | (0.03) | 0.01 |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 1.42 | 2.68 | 1.95 | (3.24) | 3.42 | 4.07 |
| Total from investment operations | 1.41 | 2.67 | 1.95 | (3.27) | 3.39 | 4.08 |
| Distributions to shareholders from net investment income |  |  |  |  | — <sup>(b)</sup> | (0.03) |
| Distributions to shareholders from net realized gains | (0.91) | (0.50) | (0.98) | (1.51) | (1.77) | (1.56) |
| Total distributions | (0.91) | (0.50) | (0.98) | (1.51) | (1.77) | (1.59) |
| Net asset value, end of period | $13.36 | $12.86 | $10.69 | $9.72 | $14.50 | $12.88 |
| **Total Return<sup>(c)</sup>** | 10.71% | 25.86% | 22.54% | (25.16)% | 29.65% | 44.36% |
| Net assets, end of period (in 000's) | $47562 | $50267 | $40849 | $39300 | $62894 | $60474 |
| Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.75 %<sup>(d)</sup> | 0.75% | 0.76% | 0.75% | 0.75% | 0.76% |
| Ratio of total expenses to average net assets | 0.92 %<sup>(d)</sup> | 0.96% | 1.00% | 0.92% | 0.93% | 0.98% |
| Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | (0.20)%<sup>(d)</sup> | (0.13)% | (0.03)% | (0.25)% | (0.23)% | 0.10% |
| Portfolio turnover rate<sup>(e)</sup> | 21% | 39% | 33% | 24% | 31% | 39% |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(a)* *Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(b)* *Amount is less than $0.005 per share.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(c)* *Assumes investment at the NAV at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all distributions and a complete redemption of the investment at the NAV at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges (if any). Total returns would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge was taken into account. Returns do not reflect the impact of taxes to shareholders relating to Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total returns for periods less than one full year are not annualized.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(d)* *Annualized.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(e)* *The Fund's portfolio turnover rate is calculated in accordance with regulatory requirements, without regard to transactions involving short term investments. If such transactions were included, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate may be higher.* 

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APPENDIX B

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund** | **Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund** |
|  | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** | **Institutional Shares** |
|  | **Six Months Ended<br>February 28, 2025<br>(Unaudited)** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** | **Year Ended August 31,** |
|  | **Six Months Ended<br>February 28, 2025<br>(Unaudited)** | **2024** | **2023** | **2022** | **2021** | **2020** |
| **Per Share Data** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $33.53 | $25.82 | $25.38 | $41.40 | $34.57 | $26.28 |
| Net investment loss<sup>(a)</sup> | (0.05) | (0.06) | (0.05) | (0.13) | (0.16) | (0.07) |
| Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 3.93 | 7.77 | 4.48 | (10.59) | 9.64 | 12.07 |
| Total from investment operations | 3.88 | 7.71 | 4.43 | (10.72) | 9.48 | 12.00 |
| Distributions to shareholders from net realized gains | (1.23) |  | (3.99) | (5.30) | (2.65) | (3.71) |
| Net asset value, end of period | $36.18 | $33.53 | $25.82 | $25.38 | $41.40 | $34.57 |
| **Total Return<sup>(b)</sup>** | 11.45% | 29.86% | 22.37% | (29.38)% | 29.42% | 51.49% |
| Net assets, end of period (in 000's) | $139617 | $129278 | $91673 | $97095 | $190705 | $157267 |
| Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.89 %<sup>(c)</sup> | 0.88% | 0.93% | 0.97% | 0.98% | 0.99% |
| Ratio of total expenses to average net assets | 1.03 %<sup>(c)</sup> | 1.03% | 1.06% | 1.04% | 1.04% | 1.08% |
| Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets | (0.30)%<sup>(c)</sup> | (0.21)% | (0.22)% | (0.40)% | (0.44)% | (0.27)% |
| Portfolio turnover rate<sup>(d)</sup> | 30% | 37% | 36% | 51% | 41% | 41% |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(a)* *Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(b)* *Assumes investment at the NAV at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the NAV at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges (if any). Total returns would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge was taken into account. Returns do not reflect the impact of taxes to shareholders relating to Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total returns for periods less than one full year are not annualized.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(c)* *Annualized.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*(d)* *The Fund's portfolio turnover rate is calculated in accordance with regulatory requirements, without regard to transactions involving short term investments. If such transactions were included, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate may be higher.* 

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Goldman Sachs Fundamental Equity Active ETFs Prospectus

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Annual/Semi-Annual Report

Additional information about the Fund's investments is or will be available in the Fund's annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders and in Form N-CSR. In the Fund's annual report (when available) you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Fund's performance during the last fiscal year. In Form N-CSR, you will find the Fund's annual and semi-annual financial statements.

Statement of Additional Information

Additional information about the Fund and its policies is also available in the Fund's SAI. The SAI is incorporated by reference into the Prospectus (*i.e*., is legally considered part of the Prospectus).

The Fund's annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders (when available), SAI and other information such as the Fund's financial statements are available free upon request by calling Goldman Sachs Funds at 1-800-621-2550. You can also access and download the annual and semi-annual reports, SAI and other information such as the Fund's financial statements free of charge, at the Fund's website: dfinview.com/GoldmanSachs.

From time to time, certain announcements and other information regarding the Fund may be found at am.gs.com for individual investors and advisers.

To request other information and for shareholder inquiries:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | <u>Shareholders/Authorized Participants</u> | <u>Financial Advisors</u> |
|  ⬛ By telephone: | 1-800-621-2550 | 1-800-292-4726 |
|  ⬛ By mail: | Goldman Sachs Funds <br>71 South Wacker Drive, Suite 1200 <br>Chicago, IL 60606 |  |
|  ⬛ On the Internet: | SEC EDGAR database – http://www.sec.gov | SEC EDGAR database – http://www.sec.gov |

---

Other information about the Fund is available on the EDGAR Database on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov. You may obtain copies of this information, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [MARKETING CODE] | ![LOGO](g941167gsamhorizlogo.jpg) |

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**The information in this Statement of Additional Information is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This Statement of Additional Information is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.** 

**PRELIMINARY STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION DATED JUNE 20, 2025** 

**SUBJECT TO COMPLETION** 

**STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION** 

**DATED [ ], 2025** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Principal U.S. Listing Exchange** | **Ticker Symbol** |
| **GOLDMAN SACHS ENHANCED U.S. EQUITY ETF** | **The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC** | **GTOP** |
| **GOLDMAN SACHS GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES ETF** | **The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC** | **GUSE** |
| **GOLDMAN SACHS TECHNOLOGY OPPORTUNITIES ETF** | **The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC** | **GSGO** |
| **GOLDMAN SACHS VALUE OPPORTUNITIES ETF** | **The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC** | **GVLE** |

---

**(Portfolios of Goldman Sachs ETF Trust)** 

Goldman Sachs ETF Trust

200 West Street

New York, New York 10282

This Statement of Additional Information (the "SAI") is not a prospectus. This SAI should be read in conjunction with the Prospectus for the Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF, Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF, Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF and Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF (each a "Fund", and together, the "Funds"), dated [•], 2025, as it may be further amended and/or supplemented from time to time (the "Prospectus"). The Prospectus may be obtained without charge from Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC by calling 1-800-621-2550 or writing to Goldman Sachs Funds, 71 South Wacker Drive, Suite 1200, Chicago, Illinois 60606.

It is currently contemplated that, before each Fund commences operations, the assets of another investment companies advised by the Investment Adviser (as defined below), Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity Fund, Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund, Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund, and Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund (each, a "predecessor fund", and together, the "predecessor funds"), will be transferred to the Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF, Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF, Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF and Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF, respectively, in tax-free reorganizations.

The audited financial statements and related report of [ ], independent registered public accounting firm for the predecessor funds, contained in the predecessor funds' filing on Form N-CSR for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024, are incorporated herein by reference in the section titled "FINANCIAL STATEMENTS." No other portions of the predecessor funds' filing on Form N-CSR are incorporated by reference herein. Each predecessor fund's financial information and each Fund's financial information (when available) may be obtained upon request and without charge by calling Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC toll-free at 1-800-621-2550.

GSAM<sup>®</sup> is a registered service mark of Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC.

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**TABLE OF CONTENTS** 

**Page** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
|  [INTRODUCTION](#saia941167_1) | 4 |
|  [EXCHANGE LISTING AND TRADING](#saia941167_2) | 4 |
|  [INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES](#saia941167_3) | 4 |
|  [DESCRIPTION OF INVESTMENT SECURITIES AND PRACTICES](#saia941167_4) | 7 |
|  [INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS](#saia941167_5) | 40 |
|  [TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS](#saia941167_6) | 43 |
|  [MANAGEMENT SERVICES](#saia941167_7) | 58 |
|  [POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST](#saia941167_8) | 62 |
|  [CREATIONS AND REDEMPTIONS](#saia941167_9) | 76 |
|  [BOOK ENTRY ONLY SYSTEM](#saia941167_10) | 81 |
|  [PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE](#saia941167_11) | 82 |
|  [DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE](#saia941167_12) | 85 |
|  [SHARES OF THE TRUST](#saia941167_13) | 86 |
|  [TAXATION](#saia941167_14) | 87 |
|  [FINANCIAL STATEMENTS](#saia941167_15) | 92 |
|  [PROXY VOTING](#saia941167_16) | 92 |
|  [PAYMENTS TO OTHERS (INCLUDING INTERMEDIARIES)](#saia941167_17) | 93 |
|  [OTHER INFORMATION](#saia941167_18) | 94 |
|  [CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES](#saia941167_19) | 96 |
|  [APPENDIX A DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES RATINGS](#saia941167_20) | 97 |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **GOLDMAN SACHS ASSET MANAGEMENT, L.P.**<br> Investment Adviser<br> 200 West Street<br> New York, New York 10282 | **ALPS DISTRIBUTORS, INC.**<br> Distributor<br> 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000<br> Denver, Colorado 80203 |
| **THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON**<br> Transfer Agent<br> 240 Greenwich Street<br> New York, New York 10286 |  |

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**Toll-free (in U.S.) 1-800-621-2550 (for Shareholders/Authorized Participants) or 1-800-292-4726 (for Financial Advisors).** 

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**INTRODUCTION** 

Goldman Sachs ETF Trust (the "Trust") is an open-end management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware statutory trust and was established by an Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated December 16, 2009. The following series of the Trust are described in this SAI: Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF, Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF, Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF and Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF. The Funds are actively-managed and do not seek to track a specified index.

The Trustees of the Trust have authority under the Declaration of Trust to create and classify Shares of the Trust into separate series. Pursuant thereto, the Trustees have created the Funds and other series. Additional series may be added in the future from time to time. See "Shares of the Trust."

Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. ("GSAM" or the "Investment Adviser"), an affiliate of Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC ("Goldman Sachs"), serves as the Investment Adviser to the Funds. In addition, ALPS Distributors, Inc. ("ALPS" or the "Distributor") serves as the Funds' distributor, and The Bank of New York Mellon ("BNYM" or the "Transfer Agent") serves as the Funds' transfer agent. The Funds' custodian is BNYM, which also provides administrative services to the Funds.

The following information relates to and supplements the description of each Fund's investment policies contained in the Prospectus. See the Prospectus for a more complete description of the Funds' investment objectives and policies. Investing in a Fund entails certain risks, and there is no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein have the same meaning as in the Prospectus.

**EXCHANGE LISTING AND TRADING** 

A discussion of exchange listing and trading matters associated with an investment in the Funds is contained in the "Shareholder Guide" section of the Prospectus. The discussion below supplements, and should be read in conjunction with, such section of the Prospectus.

The Shares of the Funds are anticipated to be approved for listing and trading on NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC (the "Exchange"), subject to notice of issuance. The Shares trade on the Exchange at prices that may differ from their net asset value ("NAV"). There can be no assurance that the Funds will continue to meet the requirements of the Exchange necessary to maintain the listing of Shares.

The Exchange may, but is not required to, remove the Shares of a Fund from listing if: (1) following the initial twelve-month period beginning upon the commencement of trading of the Fund, there are fewer than 50 beneficial holders of the Shares; (2) the Exchange becomes aware that the Fund is no longer eligible to operate in reliance on Rule 6c-11 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act" or the "Act"); (3) the Fund no longer complies with certain listing exchange rules; or (4) such other event shall occur or condition exists that, in the opinion of the Exchange, makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable. In addition, the Exchange will remove the Shares of the Fund from listing and trading upon termination of the Trust or a Fund.

As in the case of other publicly-traded securities, when you buy or sell shares through a broker, you will incur a brokerage commission determined by that broker.

In order to provide additional information regarding the indicative value of Shares of each Fund, the Exchange or a market data vendor may disseminate through the facilities of the Consolidated Tape Association, or through other widely disseminated means an "intra-day indicative value" ("IIV") for each Fund as calculated by an information provider or market data vendor. The Trust, GSAM, and their affiliates, are not responsible for any aspect of the calculation or dissemination of the IIVs and make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the IIVs.

The IIV does not necessarily reflect the precise composition of the current portfolio of securities held by a Fund at a particular point in time or the best possible valuation of the current portfolio. Therefore, the IIV should not be viewed as a "real-time" update of a Fund's NAV, which is computed only once a day. The IIV is generally determined by using both current market quotations and/or price quotations obtained from broker-dealers that may trade in the portfolio securities held by a Fund. The quotations of certain Fund holdings may not be updated during U.S. trading hours if such holdings do not trade in the United States.

The Trust reserves the right to adjust the Share prices of a Fund in the future to maintain convenient trading ranges for investors. Any adjustments would be accomplished through stock splits or reverse stock splits, which would have no effect on the net assets of a Fund or an investor's equity interest in the Fund.

The base and trading currencies of the Funds are the U.S. dollar. The base currency is the currency in which a Fund's NAV per Share is calculated and the trading currency is the currency in which Shares of the Fund are listed and traded on the Exchange.

**INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES** 

Each Fund has a distinct investment objective and policies. The investment objective of each Fund, except the Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF, is to seek long-term growth of capital. The investment objective of the Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF is to seek long-term capital appreciation. There can be no assurance that a Fund's investment objective will be achieved. Each Fund, except the Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF and Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF, is a diversified open-end management company as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act"). The Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF and Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF are non-diversified, open-end management companies (as defined in the Act).The investment objective and policies of a Fund, and the

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associated risks of a Fund, are discussed in the Prospectus, which should be read carefully before an investment is made. All investment objectives and investment policies not specifically designated as fundamental may be changed without shareholder approval. However, shareholders will be provided with sixty (60) days' notice in the manner prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") before any change in a Fund's policy to invest at least 80% of its net assets plus any borrowings for investment purposes (measured at the time of purchase ("Net Assets")) in the particular type of investment suggested by its name.

The Funds offer and issue Shares at its NAV per Share only in aggregations of a specified number of shares ("Creation Units"), generally in exchange for a basket of securities and/or instruments (the "Deposit Securities") together with a deposit of a specified cash payment (the "Cash Component"), if any. Shares are redeemable by a Fund only in Creation Units and generally in exchange for securities and/or instruments together with a specified cash payment. Shares trade in the secondary market and elsewhere at market prices that may be at, above or below NAV. Creation Units typically are a specified number of Shares.

Each Fund is an ETF, which is a fund that trades like other publicly-traded securities and is actively managed and does not seek to replicate the performance of a specified index.

The investment objective and policies of each Fund are similar to other funds advised by the adviser or its affiliates. However, the investment results of each Fund may be higher or lower than other similar funds, and there is no guarantee that the investment results of each Fund will be comparable to, any other of these funds. A new fund or a fund with fewer assets under management may be more significantly affected by purchases and redemptions of its Creation Units than a fund with relatively greater assets under management would be affected by purchases and redemptions of its shares. As compared to a larger fund, a new or smaller fund is more likely to sell a comparatively large portion of its portfolio to meet significant Creation Unit redemptions, or invest a comparatively large amount of cash to facilitate Creation Unit purchases, in each case when the fund otherwise would not seek to do so. Such transactions may cause funds to make investment decisions at inopportune times or prices or miss attractive investment opportunities. Such transactions may also accelerate the realization of taxable income if sales of securities resulted in gains and the fund redeems Creation Units for cash, or otherwise cause a fund to perform differently than intended. While such risks may apply to funds of any size, such risks are heightened in funds with fewer assets under management. In addition, new funds may not be able to fully implement their investment strategy immediately upon commencing investment operations, which could reduce investment performance.

A Fund may charge creation/redemption transaction fees for each creation and redemption. In all cases, transaction fees will be limited in accordance with the requirements of the SEC applicable to management investment companies offering redeemable securities. See the "CREATIONS AND REDEMPTIONS" section below.

[The Investment Adviser, on behalf of the Funds, has filed a notice of eligibility claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" ("CPO") under the Commodity Exchange Act ("CEA") and therefore is not subject to registration or regulation as a CPO under the CEA.]

The following discussion supplements the information in the Funds' Prospectus.

**General Information about the Value and Growth Style Funds** 

The Investment Adviser may purchase for the Funds common stocks, preferred stocks, interests in real estate investment trusts, convertible debt obligations, convertible preferred stocks, equity interests in trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, limited liability companies and similar enterprises, master limited partnerships ("MLPs"), shares of other investment companies (including exchange-traded funds ("ETFs")), warrants, stock purchase rights and synthetic and derivative instruments (such as swaps and futures contracts) that have economic characteristics similar to equity securities ("equity investments"). The Investment Adviser utilizes first-hand fundamental research, including visiting company facilities to assess operations and to meet decision-makers, in choosing a Fund's securities. The Investment Adviser may also use macro analysis of numerous economic and valuation variables to anticipate changes in company earnings and the overall investment climate. The Investment Adviser is able to draw on the research and market expertise of the Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research Department and other affiliates of the Investment Adviser, as well as information provided by other securities dealers. Equity investments in a Fund's portfolio will generally be sold when the Investment Adviser believes that the market price fully reflects or exceeds the investments' fundamental valuation or when other more attractive investments are identified.

**Value Style Funds.** The Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF is managed using a value oriented approach. The Investment Adviser evaluates securities using fundamental analysis and intends to purchase equity investments that are, in its view, underpriced relative to a combination of such companies' long-term earnings prospects, growth rate, free cash flow and/or dividend-paying ability. Consideration will be given to the business quality of the issuer. Factors positively affecting the Investment Adviser's view of that quality include the competitiveness and degree of regulation in the markets in which the company operates, the existence of a management team with a record of success, the position of the company in the markets in which it operates, the level of the company's financial leverage and the sustainable return on capital invested in the business. The Investment Adviser may also consider environmental, social, and governance factors as part of the fundamental research and stock selection process. The Fund may also purchase securities of companies that have experienced difficulties and that, in the opinion of the Investment Adviser, are available at attractive prices. No one factor or consideration is determinative in the fundamental research and stock selection process.

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**Additional Information about the Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF** 

The Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF intends to invest a substantial portion of its assets in technology companies. In general, the Investment Adviser defines a technology company as a high-quality technology, services, media or telecommunications company that adopts or uses technology to improve its cost structure, revenue opportunities or competitive advantage. The Investment Adviser seeks to identify technology companies that exhibit many of the following characteristics:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Strong brand name

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Dominant market share

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Recurring revenue streams

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Free cash flow generation

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Long product life cycle

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Enduring competitive advantage

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Excellent management

The Investment Adviser seeks to identify technology companies that are promising growth businesses. These companies may grow revenue by increasing sales volumes, prices, customers and market share. The Internet is an example of a technology that the Investment Adviser believes will drive growth for many technology businesses. The Internet has had, and is expected to continue to have, a significant impact on the global economy, as it changes the way many companies operate. Benefits of the Internet for businesses may include global scalability, acquisition of new clients, new revenue sources and increased efficiencies. Technology companies adopting innovative Internet technologies to improve their business models include providers of infrastructure, software, hardware and services.

Because of its focus on technology, telecommunications, Internet, services and media companies, the Fund's investment performance will be closely tied to many factors which affect these companies. These factors include intense competition, consumer preferences, problems with product compatibility and government regulation. The Fund's investments may experience significant price movements caused by disproportionate investor optimism or pessimism with little or no basis in fundamental economic conditions. The Fund may also invest in a relatively few number of issuers. As a result, the Fund's NAV is more likely to have greater fluctuations than that of a fund which is more diversified or invests in other industries.

**Risk Considerations Regarding the Internet Industry** 

The value of the Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF's shares will fluctuate based upon risk factors affecting the Internet industry and related industries. Market or economic factors impacting companies in these industries could have a major effect on the value of Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF's investments. The value of stocks of these companies is particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in technological product cycles, frequent new service and product announcements, evolving industry standards, changes in government regulation and policies, loss or impairment of patents and other intellectual property, intense worldwide competition, restrictions on internet usage or access, damage to the internet infrastructure, obsolescence caused by scientific and technological advances, departure of key personnel and changing customer demand. The failure of an Internet company to adapt to such changes could have a material adverse effect on the company's business, results of operations and financial condition. Technology stocks, especially those of smaller, less seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Products developed by Internet and Internet-related companies may be commercially unsuccessful. Internet companies are heavily dependent on patents and other intellectual property, and there can be no assurance that the steps taken by internet companies to protect their proprietary rights will be adequate to prevent misappropriation of their technology, or that competitors will not independently develop technologies that are substantially equivalent or superior to such companies' technology. In addition, the widespread adoption of new Internet, networking or telecommunications technologies or other technological changes could require substantial expenditures by an Internet company to modify or adapt its services or infrastructure, which could have a material adverse effect on an Internet company's business, results of operations and financial condition.

Despite the implementation of security measures, an Internet company's website and networks may be vulnerable to unauthorized access, viruses and other disruptive problems. Internet companies have in the past experienced, and may in the future experience, losses as a result of natural disasters, telecommunications failures, power failures, other system failures, maintenance, viruses, hacking or other events. Unauthorized access could also potentially jeopardize the security of information stored in the computer systems of a company and subject the companies to risk of loss, litigation and possible liability.

Internet companies are subject to general business regulations and laws, as well as regulations and laws specifically governing the Internet and e-commerce. Existing and future laws and regulations may impede the growth of the Internet or online services. There is, and will likely continue to be, an increasing number of laws and regulations pertaining to the internet, online commerce and cable, broadcast, broadband and telephone services covering taxation of Internet usage and transactions, defamation, libel, privacy, data protection, pricing, content, liability for information retrieved from or transmitted over the internet, copyrights, distribution, mobile communications, electronic contracts and other communications, consumer protection, the provision of online payment services, obscene or indecent communications, child protection, unencumbered Internet access, the design and operation of websites, and the characteristics and quality of products and services. Unfavorable regulations and laws could diminish the demand for the products and services produced by internet companies, subject them to increased liability and increase costs, all of which could materially and adversely harm their business.

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**DESCRIPTION OF INVESTMENT SECURITIES AND PRACTICES** 

The investment securities and practices and related risks applicable to the Fund (which, for the remainder of this section, refers to one or more of the Funds offered in this SAI) are presented below in alphabetical order, and not in the order of importance or potential exposure.

**Asset-Backed Securities** 

The Fund may invest in asset-backed securities. Asset-backed securities represent participations in, or are secured by and payable from, assets such as motor vehicle installment sales, installment loan contracts, leases of various types of real and personal property, receivables from revolving credit (credit card) agreements and other categories of receivables. Such assets are securitized through the use of trusts and special purpose corporations. Payments or distributions of principal and interest may be guaranteed up to certain amounts and for a certain time period by a letter of credit or a pool insurance policy issued by a financial institution unaffiliated with the trust or corporation, or other credit enhancements may be present.

Such securities are often subject to more rapid repayment than their stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of prepayments of principal on the underlying loans. During periods of declining interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be expected to accelerate. Accordingly, the Fund's ability to maintain positions in such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest rates at that time. To the extent that the Fund invests in asset-backed securities, the values of the Fund's portfolio securities will vary with changes in market interest rates generally and the differentials in yields among various kinds of asset-backed securities.

Asset-backed securities present certain additional risks because asset-backed securities generally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. Credit card receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors on such receivables are entitled to the protection of a number of state and federal consumer credit laws, many of which give such debtors the right to set-off certain amounts owed on the credit cards, thereby reducing the balance due. Automobile receivables generally are secured, but by automobiles rather than residential real property. Most issuers of automobile receivables permit the loan servicers to retain possession of the underlying obligations. If the servicer were to sell these obligations to another party, there is a risk that the purchaser would acquire an interest superior to that of the holders of the asset-backed securities. In addition, because of the large number of vehicles involved in a typical issuance and technical requirements under state laws, the trustee for the holders of the automobile receivables may not have a proper security interest in the underlying automobiles. Therefore, if the issuer of an asset-backed security defaults on its payment obligations, there is the possibility that, in some cases, the Fund will be unable to possess and sell the underlying collateral and that the Fund's recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support payments on these securities.

Mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to certain additional risks. Generally, rising interest rates tend to extend the duration of fixed rate mortgage-backed securities, making them more sensitive to changes in interest rates. As a result, in a period of rising interest rates, if the Fund holds mortgage-backed securities, it may exhibit additional volatility. This is known as extension risk. In addition, adjustable and fixed rate mortgage-backed securities are subject to prepayment risk. When interest rates decline, borrowers may pay off their mortgages sooner than expected. This can reduce the returns of the Fund because the Fund may have to reinvest that money at the lower prevailing interest rates. The Fund's investments in other asset-backed securities are subject to risks similar to those associated with mortgage-backed securities, as well as additional risks associated with the nature of the assets and the servicing of those assets. The may invest in mortgage-backed securities issued by the U.S. Government (see "U.S. Government Securities Risk"). To the extent that the Fund invests in mortgage-backed securities offered by non-governmental issuers, such as commercial banks, savings and loan institutions, private mortgage insurance companies, mortgage bankers and other secondary market issuers, the Fund may be subject to additional risks. Timely payment of interest and principal of non-governmental issuers are supported by various forms of private insurance or guarantees, including individual loan, title, pool and hazard insurance purchased by the issuer. There can be no assurance that the private insurers can meet their obligations under the policies. An unexpectedly high rate of defaults on the mortgages held by a mortgage pool may adversely affect the value of a mortgage-backed security and could result in losses to the Fund. The risk of such defaults is generally higher in the case of mortgage pools that include subprime mortgages. Subprime mortgages refer to loans made to borrowers with weakened credit histories or with a lower capacity to make timely payments on their mortgages.

**Bank Obligations** 

The Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. or foreign banks. Bank obligations, including without limitation, time deposits, bankers' acceptances and certificates of deposit, may be general obligations of the parent bank or may be limited to the issuing branch by the terms of the specific obligations or by government regulation. Banks are subject to extensive but different governmental regulations which may limit both the amount and types of loans which may be made and interest rates which may be charged. Foreign banks are subject to different regulations and are generally permitted to engage in a wider variety of activities than U.S. banks. In addition, the profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of funds for the purpose of financing lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. General economic conditions as well as exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers play an important part in the operation of this industry.

Certificates of deposit are certificates evidencing the obligation of a bank to repay funds deposited with it for a specified period of time at a specified rate. Certificates of deposit are negotiable instruments and are similar to saving deposits but have a definite maturity and are evidenced by a certificate instead of a passbook entry. Banks are required to keep reserves against all certificates of deposit. Fixed time deposits are bank obligations payable at a stated maturity date and bearing interest at a fixed rate. Fixed time deposits may be withdrawn on demand by the investor, but may be subject to early withdrawal penalties which vary depending upon market conditions and the remaining maturity of the obligation. The Fund may invest in deposits in U.S. and European banks satisfying the standards set forth above.

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**Commercial Paper and Other Short-Term Corporate Obligations** 

The Fund may invest in commercial paper and other short-term obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. corporations, non-U.S. corporations or other entities. Commercial paper represents short-term unsecured promissory notes issued in bearer form by banks or bank holding companies, corporations and finance companies.

**Convertible Securities** 

The Fund may invest in convertible securities. Convertible securities are bonds, debentures, notes, preferred stocks or other securities that may be converted into or exchanged for a specified amount of common stock (or other securities) of the same or different issuer within a particular period of time at a specified price or formula. A convertible security entitles the holder to receive interest that is generally paid or accrued on debt or a dividend that is paid or accrued on preferred stock until the convertible security matures or is redeemed, converted or exchanged. Convertible securities have unique investment characteristics, in that they generally (i) have higher yields than common stocks, but lower yields than comparable non-convertible securities, (ii) are less subject to fluctuation in value than the underlying common stock due to their fixed income characteristics and (iii) provide the potential for capital appreciation if the market price of the underlying common stock increases.

The value of a convertible security is a function of its "investment value" (determined by its yield in comparison with the yields of other securities of comparable maturity and quality that do not have a conversion privilege) and its "conversion value" (the security's worth, at market value, if converted into the underlying common stock). The investment value of a convertible security is influenced by changes in interest rates, with investment value normally declining as interest rates increase and increasing as interest rates decline. The credit standing of the issuer and other factors may also have an effect on the convertible security's investment value. The conversion value of a convertible security is determined by the market price of the underlying common stock. If the conversion value is low relative to the investment value, the price of the convertible security is governed principally by its investment value. To the extent the market price of the underlying common stock approaches or exceeds the conversion price, the price of the convertible security will be increasingly influenced by its conversion value. A convertible security generally will sell at a premium over its conversion value by the extent to which investors place value on the right to acquire the underlying common stock while holding a fixed income security.

A convertible security may be subject to redemption at the option of the issuer at a price established in the convertible security's governing instrument. If a convertible security held by the Fund is called for redemption, the Fund will be required to convert the security into the underlying common stock, sell it to a third party, or permit the issuer to redeem the security. Any of these actions could have an adverse effect on the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective, which, in turn, could result in losses to the Fund. To the extent that the Fund holds a convertible security, or a security that is otherwise converted or exchanged for common stock (e.g., as a result of a restructuring), the Fund may, consistent with its investment objective, hold such common stock in its portfolio.

In evaluating a convertible security, the Investment Adviser will give primary emphasis to the attractiveness of the underlying common stock. Convertible debt securities are equity investments for purposes of the Fund's investment policies.

**Corporate Debt Obligations** 

The Fund may invest in corporate debt obligations, including obligations of industrial, utility and financial issuers. Corporate debt obligations include bonds, notes, debentures and other obligations of corporations to pay interest and repay principal. Corporate debt obligations are subject to the risk of an issuer's inability to meet principal and interest payments on the obligations and may also be subject to price volatility due to such factors as market interest rates, market perception of the creditworthiness of the issuer and general market liquidity.

Another factor which causes fluctuations in the prices of fixed income securities is the supply and demand for similarly rated securities. In addition, the prices of fixed income securities fluctuate in response to the general level of interest rates. Fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities subsequent to their acquisition will not affect cash income from such securities but will be reflected in the Fund's NAV.

Corporate debt obligations rated BBB or Baa are considered medium-grade obligations with speculative characteristics, and adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances may weaken their issuers' capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Medium to lower rated and comparable non-rated securities tend to offer higher yields than higher rated securities with the same maturities because the historical financial condition of the issuers of such securities may not have been as strong as that of other issuers. The price of corporate debt obligations will generally fluctuate in response to fluctuations in supply and demand for similarly rated securities. In addition, the price of corporate debt obligations will generally fluctuate in response to interest rate levels. Fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities subsequent to their acquisition will not affect cash income from such securities but will be reflected in the Fund's NAV. Because medium to lower rated securities generally involve greater risks of loss of income and principal than higher rated securities, investors should consider carefully the relative risks associated with investment in securities which carry medium to lower ratings and in comparable unrated securities. In addition to the risk of default, there are the related costs of recovery on defaulted issues.

The Investment Adviser will attempt to reduce these risks through portfolio diversification and by analysis of each issuer and its ability to make timely payments of income and principal, as well as broad economic trends and corporate developments.

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The Investment Adviser employs its own credit research and analysis, which includes a study of an issuer's existing debt, capital structure, ability to service debt and pay dividends, sensitivity to economic conditions, operating history and current earnings trend. The Investment Adviser continually monitors the investments in the Fund's portfolio and evaluates whether to dispose of or to retain corporate debt obligations whose credit ratings or credit quality may have changed. If after its purchase, a portfolio security is assigned a lower rating or ceases to be rated, the Fund may continue to hold the security if the Investment Adviser believes it is in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders.

**Custodial Receipts and Trust Certificates** 

The Fund may invest in custodial receipts and trust certificates, which may be underwritten by securities dealers or banks, representing interests in securities held by a custodian or trustee. The securities so held may include obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises ("U.S. Government Securities"), municipal securities or other types of securities in which the Fund may invest. The custodial receipts or trust certificates are underwritten by securities dealers or banks and may evidence ownership of future interest payments, principal payments or both on the underlying securities, or, in some cases, the payment obligation of a third party that has entered into an interest rate swap or other arrangement with the custodian or trustee. For purposes of certain securities laws, custodial receipts and trust certificates may not be considered obligations of the U.S. Government or other issuer of the securities held by the custodian or trustee. As a holder of custodial receipts and trust certificates, the Fund will bear its proportionate share of the fees and expenses charged to the custodial account or trust. The Fund may also invest in separately issued interests in custodial receipts and trust certificates.

Although under the terms of a custodial receipt or trust certificate the Fund would typically be authorized to assert its rights directly against the issuer of the underlying obligation, the Fund could be required to assert through the custodian bank or trustee those rights as may exist against the underlying issuers. Thus, in the event an underlying issuer fails to pay principal and/or interest when due, the Fund may be subject to delays, expenses and risks that are greater than those that would have been involved if the Fund had purchased a direct obligation of the issuer. In addition, in the event that the trust or custodial account in which the underlying securities have been deposited is determined to be an association taxable as a corporation, instead of a non-taxable entity, the yield on the underlying securities would be reduced in recognition of any taxes paid.

Certain custodial receipts and trust certificates may be synthetic or derivative instruments that have interest rates that reset inversely to changing short-term rates and/or have embedded interest rate floors and caps that require the issuer to pay an adjusted interest rate if market rates fall below or rise above a specified rate. Because some of these instruments represent relatively recent innovations, and the trading market for these instruments is less developed than the markets for traditional types of instruments, it is uncertain how these instruments will perform under different economic and interest-rate scenarios. Also, because these instruments may be leveraged, their market values may be more volatile than other types of fixed income instruments and may present greater potential for capital gain or loss. The possibility of default by an issuer or the issuer's credit provider may be greater for these derivative instruments than for other types of instruments. In some cases, it may be difficult to determine the fair value of a derivative instrument because of a lack of reliable objective information and an established secondary market for some instruments may not exist. In many cases, the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") has not ruled on the tax treatment of the interest or payments received on the derivative instruments and, accordingly, purchases of such instruments are based on the opinion of counsel to the sponsors of the instruments.

**Derivatives and Similar Instruments** 

The Funds may invest in derivatives and similar instruments discussed elsewhere in this SAI. The use of derivatives and similar instruments may pose risks in addition to and greater than those associated with investing directly in securities, currencies or other assets and instruments and may result in losses due to adverse market movements. Pursuant to Rule 18f-4 under the Act, a Fund's use of derivatives and other transactions that create future payment or delivery obligations is subject to a value-at-risk ("VaR") leverage limit and reporting and certain other requirements if the Fund is a fund that does not qualify as a "limited derivatives user" under Rule 18f-4 ("Full Compliance Fund"). The Trust has also adopted and implemented a derivatives risk management program (the "DRMP") to, among other things, manage the risks associated with the use of derivatives and these other transactions for series of the Trust that are Full Compliance Funds. The Board of Trustees has approved the designation of personnel from the Investment Adviser to administer the DRMP for the Full Compliance Funds. With respect to series of the Trust that qualify as "limited derivatives users" under Rule 18f-4 (each, an "LDU Fund"), the Trust has adopted and implemented policies and procedures to manage an LDU Fund's derivatives risks. An LDU Fund is also subject to the derivatives exposure threshold set forth in Rule 18f-4.

Similar to bank borrowings, derivatives and similar instruments may result in leverage. Borrowing and the use of derivatives and similar instruments may magnify the potential for gains and losses in excess of the initial amount invested. Mutual funds can borrow money from banks and other financial institutions, subject to certain asset coverage limits. The amount of indebtedness from bank borrowings may not exceed one-third of the Fund's total assets (including the amount borrowed). If the Fund uses reverse repurchase agreements or similar financing transactions, including certain tender option bonds, the Fund must either aggregate the amount of indebtedness associated with the reverse repurchase agreements or similar financing transactions with the aggregate amount of indebtedness associated with any bank borrowings, if applicable, when calculating the Fund's asset coverage ratio or treat all such transactions as derivatives transactions subject to the leverage limits under Rule 18f-4.

In addition, under Rule 18f-4, the Fund is permitted to invest in a security on a when-issued or forward-settling basis, or with a non-standard settlement cycle, and the transaction will be deemed not to involve a "senior security," provided that (i) the Fund intends to physically settle the transaction and (ii) the transaction will settle within 35 days of its trade date). The Fund may otherwise engage in such transactions that do not meet these conditions so long as the Fund treats any such transaction as a "derivatives transaction" for purposes of compliance with Rule 18f-4. Furthermore, under Rule 18f-4, the Fund will be permitted to enter into an unfunded commitment agreement, and such unfunded commitment agreement will not be subject to the limits on borrowings as described above, if the Fund reasonably believes, at the time it enters into such agreement, that it will have sufficient cash and cash equivalents to meet its obligations with respect to all such agreements as they come due.

These requirements may limit the ability of the Fund to use derivatives, short sales, reverse repurchase agreements and similar financing transactions, delayed-settlement securities and unfunded commitment agreements as part of its investment strategies.

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From time to time, the Fund may enter into derivatives or other similar transactions that require the Fund to pledge margin or collateral to a counterparty or clearing member through a margin/collateral account for and on behalf of the counterparty or clearing member. For operational, cost, regulatory or other reasons, when setting up these arrangements, the Fund may be required to use a margin/collateral account model or naming convention that may not be the most protective option available in the case of a default or bankruptcy by a counterparty or clearing member or that may delay or impair the Fund from fully exercising its rights under the arrangement. In the event of default or bankruptcy by a counterparty or clearing member, the margin or collateral may be subject to legal proceedings and the Fund may be delayed in taking possession of any margin or collateral to which the Fund is legally entitled.

**Dividend-Paying Investments** 

The Fund's investments in dividend-paying securities could cause the Fund to underperform other funds that invest in similar asset classes but employ a different investment style. Securities that pay dividends, as a group, can fall out of favor with the market, causing such securities to underperform securities that do not pay dividends. Depending upon market conditions and political and legislative responses to such conditions, dividend-paying securities that meet the Fund's investment criteria may not be widely available and/or may be highly concentrated in only a few market sectors. The adoption of new legislation could further limit or restrict the ability of issuers to pay dividends. To the extent that dividend-paying securities are concentrated in only a few market sectors, a Fund may be subject to the risks of volatile economic cycles and/or conditions or developments that may be particular to a sector to a greater extent than if its investments were diversified across different sectors. In addition, issuers that have paid regular dividends or distributions to shareholders may not continue to do so at the same level or at all in the future. A sharp rise in interest rates or an economic downturn could cause an issuer to abruptly reduce or eliminate its dividend. This may limit the ability of the Fund to produce current income.

**Foreign Investments** 

The Fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers, including securities quoted or denominated in a currency other than U.S. dollars. Each Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 20% of its net assets plus any borrowings in foreign securities. Investments in foreign securities may offer potential benefits not available from investments solely in U.S. dollar-denominated or quoted securities of domestic issuers. Such benefits may include the opportunity to invest in foreign issuers that appear, in the opinion of the Investment Adviser, to offer the potential for better long term growth of capital and income than investments in U.S. securities, the opportunity to invest in foreign countries with economic policies or business cycles different from those of the United States and the opportunity to reduce fluctuations in portfolio value by taking advantage of foreign securities markets that do not necessarily move in a manner parallel to U.S. markets. Investing in the securities of foreign issuers also involves, however, certain special risks, including those discussed in the Fund's Prospectus and those set forth below, which are not typically associated with investing in U.S. dollar-denominated securities or quoted securities of U.S. issuers. Many of these risks are more pronounced for investments in emerging economies.

With respect to investments in certain foreign countries, there exist certain economic, political and social risks, including the risk of adverse political developments, nationalization, military unrest, social instability, war and terrorism, confiscation without fair compensation, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, limitations on the movement of funds and other assets between different countries, or diplomatic developments, any of which could adversely affect the Fund's investments in those countries. Governments in certain foreign countries continue to participate to a significant degree, through ownership interest or regulation, in their respective economies. Action by these governments could have a significant effect on market prices of securities and dividend payments.

As described more fully below, the Fund may invest in countries with emerging economies or securities markets. Political and economic structures in many of such countries may be undergoing significant evolution and rapid development, and such countries may lack the social, political and economic stability characteristic of more developed countries. Certain of such countries have in the past failed to recognize private property rights and have at times nationalized or expropriated the assets of, or ignored internationally accepted standards of due process against, private companies. In addition, a country may take these and other retaliatory actions against a specific private company, including the Fund or the Investment Adviser. There may not be legal recourse against these actions, which could arise in connection with the commercial activities of Goldman Sachs or its affiliates or otherwise, and the Fund could be subject to substantial losses. In addition, the Fund or its Investment Adviser may determine not to invest in, or may limit its overall investment in, a particular issuer, country or geographic region due to, among other things, heightened risks regarding repatriation restrictions, confiscation of assets and property, expropriation or nationalization. See "Investing in Emerging Countries," below.

Many countries throughout the world are dependent on a healthy U.S. economy and are adversely affected when the U.S. economy weakens or its markets decline. Additionally, many foreign country economies are heavily dependent on international trade and are adversely affected by protective trade barriers and economic conditions of their trading partners. Protectionist trade legislation enacted by those trading partners could have a significant adverse effect on the securities markets of those countries. Individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position.

From time to time, certain of the companies in which the Fund may invest may operate in, or have dealings with, countries subject to sanctions or embargos imposed by the U.S. Government and the United Nations and/or countries identified by the U.S. Government as state sponsors of terrorism. A company may suffer damage to its reputation if it is identified as a company which operates in, or has dealings with, countries subject to sanctions or embargoes imposed by the U.S. Government as state sponsors of terrorism. As an investor in such companies, the Fund will be indirectly subject to those risks. Iran is subject to several United Nations sanctions and is an embargoed country by the Office of Foreign Assets Control ("OFAC") of the U.S. Department of the Treasury (the "Treasury" or "U.S. Treasury").

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In addition, from time to time, certain of the companies in which the Fund may invest may engage in, or have dealings with countries or companies that engage in, activities that may not be considered socially and/or environmentally responsible. Such activities may relate to human rights issues (such as patterns of human rights abuses or violations, persecution or discrimination), impacts to local communities in which companies operate and environmental sustainability. For a description of the Investment Adviser's approach to responsible and sustainable investing, please see GSAM's Statement on Responsible and Sustainable Investing at https://www.gsam.com/content/dam/gsam/pdfs/common/en/public/miscellaneous/GSAM_statement_on_respon_sustainable_investing.pdf.

As a result, a company may suffer damage to its reputation if it is identified as a company which engages in, or has dealings with countries or companies that engage in, the above referenced activities. As an investor in such companies, a Fund would be indirectly subject to those risks.

The Investment Adviser is committed to complying fully with sanctions in effect as of the date of this Statement of Additional Information and any other applicable sanctions that may be enacted in the future with respect to Sudan or any other country.

Many countries throughout the world are dependent on a healthy U.S. economy and are adversely affected when the U.S. economy weakens or its markets decline. Additionally, many foreign country economies are heavily dependent on international trade and are adversely affected by protective trade barriers and economic conditions of their trading partners. Protectionist trade legislation enacted by those trading partners could have a significant adverse effect on the securities markets of those countries. Individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position.

Investments in foreign securities often involve currencies of foreign countries. Accordingly, the Fund may be affected favorably or unfavorably by changes in currency rates and in exchange control regulations and may incur costs in connection with conversions between various currencies. The Fund may be subject to currency exposure independent of their securities positions. To the extent that a Fund is fully invested in foreign securities while also maintaining net currency positions, it may be exposed to greater combined risk.

Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time. They generally are determined by the forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange markets and the relative merits of investments in different countries, actual or anticipated changes in interest rates and other complex factors, as seen from an international perspective. Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by intervention (or the failure to intervene) by U.S. or foreign governments or central banks or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad. To the extent that a portion of the Fund's total assets, adjusted to reflect the Fund's net position after giving effect to currency transactions, is denominated or quoted in the currencies of foreign countries, the Fund will be more susceptible to the risk of adverse economic and political developments within those countries. The Fund's net currency positions may expose it to risks independent of its securities positions.

Because foreign issuers generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies, there may be less publicly available information about a foreign company than about a U.S. company. Volume and liquidity in most foreign securities markets are less than in the United States and securities of many foreign companies are less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. companies. The securities of foreign issuers may be listed on foreign securities exchanges or traded in foreign over-the-counter markets. Fixed commissions on foreign securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on U.S. exchanges, although the Fund endeavors to achieve the most favorable net results on its portfolio transactions. There is generally less government supervision and regulation of foreign securities exchanges, brokers, dealers and listed and unlisted companies than in the United States, and the legal remedies for investors may be more limited than the remedies available in the United States. For example, there may be no comparable provisions under certain foreign laws to insider trading and similar investor protections that apply with respect to securities transactions consummated in the United States. Mail service between the United States and foreign countries may be slower or less reliable than within the United States, thus increasing the risk of delayed settlement of portfolio transactions or loss of certificates for portfolio securities.

Foreign markets also have different clearance and settlement procedures, and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Such delays in settlement could result in temporary periods when the Fund's assets are uninvested and no return is earned on such assets. The inability of the Fund to make intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of portfolio securities due to settlement problems could result either in losses to the Fund due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio securities, or, if the Fund has entered into a contract to sell the securities, in possible liability to the purchaser.

These and other factors discussed in the section below, titled "Illiquid Investments," may impact the liquidity of investments in securities of foreign issuers.

The Fund may invest in foreign securities which take the form of sponsored and unsponsored American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs"), Global Depositary Notes ("GDNs") or other similar instruments representing securities of foreign issuers (together, "Depositary Receipts"). ADRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a correspondent bank. ADRs are traded on domestic exchanges or in the U.S. over-the-counter market and, generally, are in registered form. EDRs and GDRs are receipts evidencing an arrangement with a non-U.S. bank similar to that for ADRs and are designed for use in the non-U.S. securities markets. EDRs and GDRs are not necessarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security. GDNs are issued by a bank or other depository and evidence ownership of a debt security denominated in local currency. GDNs generally mirror the terms (e.g., interest rate, maturity date, credit rating, etc.) of particular local currency-denominated bonds, though they are traded, settled and paid in U.S. dollars.

To the extent the Fund acquires Depositary Receipts through banks which do not have a contractual relationship with the foreign issuer of the security underlying the Depositary Receipts to issue and service such unsponsored Depositary Receipts, there is an increased possibility that the Fund will not become aware of and be able to respond to corporate actions such as stock splits or rights offerings involving the foreign issuer in a

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timely manner. In addition, the lack of information may result in inefficiencies in the valuation of such instruments. Investment in Depositary Receipts does not eliminate all the risks inherent in investing in securities of non-U.S. issuers. The market value of Depositary Receipts is dependent upon the market value of the underlying securities and fluctuations in the relative value of the currencies in which the Depositary Receipts and the underlying securities are quoted. In addition, the issuers of Depositary Receipts may discontinue issuing new Depositary Receipts and withdraw existing Depositary Receipts at any time, which may result in costs and delays in the distribution of the underlying assets to the Fund and may negatively impact the Fund's performance. However, by investing in Depositary Receipts, such as ADRs and GDNs, which are quoted in U.S. dollars, the Fund may avoid currency risks during the settlement period for purchases and sales.

<u>Foreign Government Obligations</u>. Foreign government obligations include securities, instruments and obligations issued or guaranteed by a foreign government, its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises. Investment in foreign government obligations can involve a high degree of risk. The governmental entity that controls the repayment of foreign government obligations may not be able or willing to repay the principal and/or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt. A governmental entity's willingness or ability to repay principal and interest due in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its foreign reserves, the availability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the governmental entity's policy towards the International Monetary Fund and the political constraints to which a governmental entity may be subject. Governmental entities may also be dependent on expected disbursements from foreign governments, multilateral agencies and others abroad to reduce principal and interest on their debt. The commitment on the part of these governments, agencies and others to make such disbursements may be conditioned on a governmental entity's implementation of economic reforms and/or economic performance and the timely service of such debtor's obligations. Failure to implement such reforms, achieve such levels of economic performance or repay principal or interest when due may result in the cancellation of such third parties' commitments to lend funds to the governmental entity, which may further impair such debtor's ability or willingness to service its debts in a timely manner. Consequently, governmental entities may default on their debt. Holders of foreign government obligations (including the Fund) may be requested to participate in the rescheduling of such debt and to extend further loans to governmental agencies.

**Investing in Europe** 

A Fund may operate in euros and/or may hold euros and/or euro-denominated bonds and other obligations. The euro requires participation of multiple sovereign states forming the Euro zone and is therefore sensitive to the credit, general economic and political position of each such state, including each state's actual and intended ongoing engagement with and/or support for the other sovereign states then forming the EU, in particular those within the Euro zone. Changes in these factors might materially adversely impact the value of securities that a Fund has invested in.

European countries can be significantly affected by the tight fiscal and monetary controls that the European Economic and Monetary Union ("EMU") imposes for membership. Europe's economies are diverse, its governments are decentralized, and its cultures vary widely. Several EU countries, including Greece, Ireland, Italy, Spain and Portugal have faced budget issues, some of which may have negative long-term effects for the economies of those countries and other EU countries. There is continued concern about national-level support for the euro and the accompanying coordination of fiscal and wage policy among EMU member countries. Member countries are required to maintain tight control over inflation, public debt, and budget deficit to qualify for membership in the EMU. These requirements can severely limit the ability of EMU member countries to implement monetary policy to address regional economic conditions.

Geopolitical developments in Europe have caused, or may in the future cause, significant volatility in financial markets. For example, in a June 2016 referendum, citizens of the United Kingdom voted to leave the EU. In March 2017, the United Kingdom formally notified the European Council of its intention to withdraw from the EU (commonly known as "Brexit") by invoking Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union, which triggered a two-year period of negotiations on the terms of Brexit. Brexit has resulted in volatility in European and global markets and may also lead to weakening in political, regulatory, consumer, corporate and financial confidence in the markets of the United Kingdom and throughout Europe. The longer term economic, legal, political, regulatory and social framework between the United Kingdom and the EU remains unclear and may lead to ongoing political, regulatory and economic uncertainty and periods of exacerbated volatility in both the United Kingdom and in wider European markets for some time. Additionally, the decision made in the British referendum may lead to a call for similar referenda in other European jurisdictions, which may cause increased economic volatility in European and global markets. The mid-to long-term uncertainty may have an adverse effect on the economy generally and on the value of a Fund's investments. This may be due to, among other things: fluctuations in asset values and exchange rates; increased illiquidity of investments located, traded or listed within the United Kingdom, the EU or elsewhere; changes in the willingness or ability of counterparties to enter into transactions at the price and terms on which a Fund is prepared to transact; and/or changes in legal and regulatory regimes to which certain of a Fund's assets are or become subject. Fluctuations in the value of the British Pound and/or the Euro, along with the potential downgrading of the United Kingdom's sovereign credit rating, may also have an impact on the performance of a Fund's assets or investments economically tied to the United Kingdom or Europe.

The full effects of Brexit will depend, in part, on whether the United Kingdom is able to negotiate agreements to retain access to EU markets including, but not limited to, trade and finance agreements. Brexit could lead to legal and tax uncertainty and potentially divergent national laws and regulations as the United Kingdom determines which EU laws to replace or replicate. The extent of the impact of the withdrawal and the resulting economic arrangements in the United Kingdom and in global markets as well as any associated adverse consequences remain unclear, and the uncertainty may have a significant negative effect on the value of a Fund's investments. While certain measures have been proposed and/or implemented within the UK and at the EU level or at the member state level, which are designed to minimize disruption in the financial markets, it is not currently possible to determine whether such measures would achieve their intended effects.

On January 31, 2020, the United Kingdom withdrew from the EU and the United Kingdom entered a transition period that expired on December 31, 2020. On December 24, 2020, negotiators representing the United Kingdom and the EU came to a preliminary trade agreement, the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement ("TCA"), which is an agreement on the terms governing certain aspects of the EU's and United Kingdom's relationship following the end of the transition period. However, many aspects of the UK-EU trade relationship remain subject to further negotiation. Due to political uncertainty, it is not possible to anticipate the form or nature of the future trading relationship between the United Kingdom and the EU.

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Other economic challenges facing the region include high levels of public debt, significant rates of unemployment, aging populations, and heavy regulation in certain economic sectors. European policy makers have taken unprecedented steps to respond to the economic crisis and to boost growth in the region, which has increased the risk that regulatory uncertainty could negatively affect the value of a Fund's investments.

Certain countries have applied to become new member countries of the EU, and these candidate countries' accessions may become more controversial to the existing EU members. Some member states may repudiate certain candidate countries joining the EU upon concerns about the possible economic, immigration and cultural implications. Also, Russia may be opposed to the expansion of the EU to members of the former Soviet bloc and may, at times, take actions that could negatively impact EU economic activity.

**Investing in Russia** 

In addition to the risks listed above under "Foreign Securities" and "Investing in Emerging Countries," investing in Russia presents additional risks. Investing in Russian securities is highly speculative and involves significant risks and special considerations not typically associated with investing in the securities markets of the U.S. and most other developed countries. Over the past century, Russia has experienced political, social and economic turbulence and has endured decades of communist rule under which tens of millions of its citizens were collectivized into state agricultural and industrial enterprises. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia's government has been faced with the daunting task of stabilizing its domestic economy, while transforming it into a modern and efficient structure able to compete in international markets and respond to the needs of its citizens. However, to date, many of the country's economic reform initiatives have floundered as the proceeds of International Monetary Fund and other economic assistance have been squandered or stolen. In this environment, there is always the risk that the nation's government will abandon the current program of economic reform and replace it with radically different political and economic policies that would be detrimental to the interests of foreign investors. This could entail a return to a centrally planned economy and nationalization of private enterprises similar to what existed under the old Soviet Union.

Poor accounting standards, inept management, pervasive corruption, insider trading and crime, and inadequate regulatory protection for the rights of investors all pose a significant risk, particularly to foreign investors. A Fund also may experience difficulty in obtaining and/or enforcing judgments in Russia. In addition, there is the risk that the Russian tax system will not be reformed to prevent inconsistent, retroactive, and/or exorbitant taxation, or, in the alternative, the risk that a reformed tax system may result in the inconsistent and unpredictable enforcement of the new tax laws.

Compared to most national stock markets, the Russian securities market suffers from a variety of problems not encountered in more developed markets. There is little long-term historical data on the Russian securities market because it is relatively new and a substantial proportion of securities transactions in Russia are privately negotiated outside of stock exchanges. The inexperience of the Russian securities market and the limited volume of trading in securities in the market may make obtaining accurate prices on portfolio securities from independent sources more difficult than in more developed markets. Additionally, because of less stringent auditing and financial reporting standards that apply to U.S. companies, there is little solid corporate information available to investors. As a result, it may be difficult to assess the value or prospects of an investment in Russian companies. Stocks of Russian companies also may experience greater price volatility than stocks of U.S. companies.

Because of the relatively recent formation of the Russian securities market as well as the underdeveloped state of the banking and telecommunications systems, settlement, clearing and registration of securities transactions are subject to significant risks. Prior to 2013, there was no central registration system for share registration in Russia and registration was carried out by the companies themselves or by registrars located throughout Russia. These registrars were not necessarily subject to effective state supervision nor were they licensed with any governmental entity. In 2013, Russia implemented changes intended to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the Russian securities market and decrease risk of loss in connection with recording and transferring title to securities. However, more recently, Russia took actions that impact the custody of securities of Russian issuers and may be detrimental to a Fund's ability to locate and recover such securities. Russia may continue to take similar actions in the future. A Fund's investments in Russian securities may be subject to problems relating to custody, which can result in losses to the Fund.

The Russian economy is heavily dependent upon the export of a range of commodities including most industrial metals, forestry products, oil, and gas. Accordingly, it is strongly affected by international commodity prices and is particularly vulnerable to any weakening in global demand for these products.

Foreign investors also face a high degree of currency risk when investing in Russian securities and a lack of available currency hedging instruments. In a surprise move in August 1998, Russia devalued the ruble, defaulted on short-term domestic bonds, and imposed a moratorium on the repayment of its international debt and the restructuring of the repayment terms. These actions negatively affected Russian borrowers' ability to access international capital markets and had a damaging impact on the Russian economy. In addition, there is the risk that the government may impose capital controls on foreign portfolio investments in the event of extreme financial or political crisis. Such capital controls would prevent the sale of a portfolio of foreign assets and the repatriation of investment income and capital.

Russia's government has begun to take bolder steps, including use of the military, to re-assert its regional geo-political influence. In February 2022, Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine. These steps have increased tensions between its neighbors and Western countries, which may adversely affect its economic growth. These developments may continue for some time and create uncertainty in the region. Russia's actions have induced the United States and other countries to impose economic sanctions and may result in additional sanctions in the future. Such sanctions, which impact many sectors of the Russian economy, may cause a decline in the value and liquidity of Russian securities and adversely affect the performance of the Fund or make it difficult for the Fund to achieve its investment objectives. In certain instances, sanctions and other similar measures could prohibit the Fund from buying or selling Russian securities, rendering any such securities held by the Fund unmarketable for

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an indefinite period of time. In addition, such sanctions, and the Russian government's response, could result in a downgrade in Russia's credit rating, devaluation of its currency and/or increased volatility with respect to Russian securities. Moreover, disruptions caused by Russian military action or other actions (including cyberattacks and espionage) or resulting actual and threatened responses to such activity, including purchasing and financing restrictions, boycotts or changes in consumer or purchaser preferences, sanctions, tariffs or cyberattacks on the Russian government, Russian companies or Russian individuals, including politicians, may impact Russia's economy and issuers of securities in which the Fund invests.

**Investing in Emerging Countries** 

The securities markets of emerging countries are less liquid and subject to greater price volatility, and have a smaller market capitalization, than the U.S. securities markets. In certain countries, there may be fewer publicly traded securities and the market may be dominated by a few issuers or sectors. Issuers and securities markets in such countries are not subject to as stringent, extensive and frequent accounting, auditing, financial and other reporting requirements or as comprehensive government regulations as are issuers and securities markets in the U.S., and the degree of cooperation between issuers in emerging and frontier market countries with foreign and U.S. financial regulators may vary significantly. In particular, the assets and profits appearing on the financial statements of emerging country issuers may not reflect their financial position or results of operations in the same manner as financial statements for U.S. issuers. Substantially less information may be publicly available about emerging country issuers than is available about issuers in the United States. In addition, U.S. regulators may not have sufficient access to adequately audit and oversee issuers. For example, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (the "PCAOB") is responsible for inspecting and auditing the accounting practices and products of U.S.-listed companies, regardless of the issuer's domicile. However, certain emerging market countries do not provide sufficient access to the PCAOB to conduct its inspections and audits. As a result, U.S. investors, including the Fund, may be subject to risks associated with less stringent accounting oversight.

Emerging country securities markets are typically marked by a high concentration of market capitalization and trading volume in a small number of issuers representing a limited number of industries, as well as a high concentration of ownership of such securities by a limited number of investors. The markets for securities in certain emerging countries are in the earliest stages of their development. Even the markets for relatively widely traded securities in emerging countries may not be able to absorb, without price disruptions, a significant increase in trading volume or trades of a size customarily undertaken by institutional investors in the securities markets of developed countries. The limited size of many of these securities markets can cause prices to be erratic for reasons apart from factors that affect the soundness and competitiveness of the securities issuers. For example, prices may be unduly influenced by traders who control large positions in these markets. Additionally, market making and arbitrage activities are generally less extensive in such markets, which may contribute to increased volatility and reduced liquidity of such markets. The limited liquidity of emerging country securities may also affect a Fund's ability to accurately value its portfolio securities or to acquire or dispose of securities at the price and time it wishes to do so or in order to meet redemption requests. In addition, emerging market countries are often characterized by limited reliable access to capital.

With respect to investments in certain emerging market countries, antiquated legal systems may have an adverse impact on the Fund. For example, while the potential liability of a shareholder in a U.S. corporation with respect to acts of the corporation is generally limited to the amount of the shareholder's investment, the notion of limited liability is less clear in certain emerging market countries. Similarly, the rights of investors in emerging market companies may be more limited than those of shareholders of U.S. corporations, and it may be more difficult for shareholders to bring derivative litigation. Moreover, the legal remedies for investors in emerging markets may be more limited than the remedies available in the United States, and the ability of U.S. authorities (e.g., SEC and the U.S. Department of Justice) to bring actions against bad actors may be limited. In addition, emerging countries may have less established accounting and financial reporting systems than those in more developed markets.

Transaction costs, including brokerage commissions or dealer mark-ups, in emerging countries may be higher than in the United States and other developed securities markets. In addition, existing laws and regulations are often inconsistently applied. As legal systems in emerging countries develop, foreign investors may be adversely affected by new or amended laws and regulations. In circumstances where adequate laws exist, it may not be possible to obtain swift and equitable enforcement of the law.

Custodial and/or settlement systems in emerging and frontier market countries may not be fully developed. To the extent a Fund invests in emerging markets, Fund assets that are traded in such markets and which have been entrusted to such sub-custodians in those markets may be exposed to risks for which the sub-custodian will have no liability.

Foreign investment in the securities markets of certain emerging countries is restricted or controlled to varying degrees. These restrictions may limit a Fund's investment in certain emerging countries and may increase the expenses of the Fund. Certain emerging countries require governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a specific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of the company available for purchase by nationals.

The repatriation of investment income, capital or the proceeds of securities sales from emerging countries may be subject to restrictions which require governmental consents or prohibit repatriation entirely for a period of time, which may make it difficult for a Fund to invest in such emerging countries. A Fund could be adversely affected by delays in, or a refusal to grant, any required governmental approval for such repatriation. Even where there is no outright restriction on repatriation of capital, the mechanics of repatriation may affect certain aspects of the operation of a Fund. A Fund may be required to establish special custodial or other arrangements before investing in certain emerging countries.

Emerging countries may be subject to a substantially greater degree of economic, political and social instability and disruption than is the case in the United States, Japan and most Western European countries. This instability may result from, among other things, the following: (i) authoritarian governments or military involvement in political and economic decision making, including changes or attempted changes in governments through extra-constitutional means; (ii) popular unrest associated with demands for improved political, economic or social conditions; (iii) internal insurgencies; (iv) hostile relations with neighboring countries; (v) ethnic, religious and racial disaffection or conflict; and (vi) the

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absence of developed legal structures governing foreign private investments and private property. Such economic, political and social instability could disrupt the principal financial markets in which the Fund may invest and adversely affect the value of the Fund's assets. A Fund's investments can also be adversely affected by any increase in taxes or by political, economic or diplomatic developments.

Certain Funds may seek investment opportunities within former "Eastern bloc" countries. Most of these countries had a centrally planned, socialist economy for a substantial period of time. The governments of many of these countries have more recently been implementing reforms directed at political and economic liberalization, including efforts to decentralize the economic decision-making process and move towards a market economy. However, business entities in Eastern European countries do not have an extended history of operating in a market-oriented economy, and the ultimate impact of these countries' attempts to move toward more market-oriented economies is currently unclear. Any change in the leadership or policies of these countries may halt the expansion of or reverse the liberalization of foreign investment policies now occurring and adversely affect existing investment opportunities. In addition, Eastern European markets are particularly sensitive to social, economic and currency events in Western Europe and Russia. Russia may attempt to assert its influence in the region through military measures.

In addition, because of ongoing regional armed conflict in Europe, including a large-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February 2022, Russia has been the subject of economic sanctions imposed by countries throughout the world, including the United States. Such sanctions have included, among other things, freezing the assets of particular entities and persons. The imposition of sanctions and other similar measures could, among other things, cause a decline in the value and/or liquidity of securities issued by Russia or companies located in or economically tied to Russia, downgrades in the credit ratings of Russian securities or those of companies located in or economically tied to Russia, devaluation of Russia's currency, and increased market volatility and disruption in Russia and throughout the world. Sanctions and other similar measures, including banning Russia from global payments systems that facilitate cross-border payments, could limit or prevent the Fund from buying and selling securities (in Russia and other markets), significantly delay or prevent the settlement of securities transactions, and significantly impact the Fund's liquidity and performance. Sanctions could also result in Russia taking counter measures or retaliatory actions which may further impair the value and liquidity of Russian securities. Moreover, disruptions caused by Russian military action or other actions (including cyberattacks and espionage) or resulting actual and threatened responses to such activity, including cyberattacks on the Russian government, Russian companies or Russian individuals, including politicians, may impact Russia's economy and Russian issuers of securities in which the Fund invests.

The economies of emerging countries may differ unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross domestic product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resources, self-sufficiency and balance of payments. Many emerging countries have experienced in the past, and continue to experience, high rates of inflation. In certain countries inflation has at times accelerated rapidly to hyperinflationary levels, creating a negative interest rate environment and sharply eroding the value of outstanding financial assets in those countries. Other emerging countries, on the other hand, have recently experienced deflationary pressures and are in economic recessions. The economies of many emerging countries are heavily dependent upon international trade and are accordingly affected by protective trade barriers and the economic conditions of their trading partners. In addition, the economies of some emerging countries are vulnerable to weakness in world prices for their commodity exports.

A Fund's income and, in some cases, capital gains from foreign stocks and securities will be subject to applicable taxation in certain of the countries in which it invests, and treaties between the U.S. and such countries may be available in some cases to reduce the otherwise applicable tax rates. See "TAXATION."

Foreign markets also have different clearance and settlement procedures, and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Such delays in settlement could result in temporary periods when a portion of the assets of the Fund remain uninvested and no return is earned on such assets. The inability of the Fund to make intended security purchases or sales due to settlement problems could result either in losses to the Fund due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio securities or, if the Fund has entered into a contract to sell the securities, could result in possible liability to the purchaser.

These and other factors discussed in the section below, titled "Illiquid Investments," may impact the liquidity of investments in issuers of emerging country securities.

**Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts** 

The Fund, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts for hedging purposes and to seek to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates. A Fund may also enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts to increase total return. A forward foreign currency exchange contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the contract. These contracts are traded in the interbank market and are conducted directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. A forward contract generally has no deposit requirement, and no commissions are generally charged at any stage for trades.

At the maturity of a forward contract, the Fund may either accept or make delivery of the currency specified in the contract or, at or prior to maturity, enter into a closing purchase transaction involving the purchase or sale of an offsetting contract. Closing purchase transactions with respect to forward contracts are usually effected with the currency trader who is a party to the original forward contract.

The Fund may, from time to time, engage in non-deliverable forward transactions to manage currency risk or to gain exposure to a currency without purchasing securities denominated in that currency. A non-deliverable forward is a transaction that represents an agreement between the Fund and a counterparty (usually a commercial bank) to pay the other party the amount that it would have cost based on current market rates as of the termination date to buy or sell a specified (notional) amount of a particular currency at an agreed upon foreign exchange rate on an agreed upon future date. If the counterparty defaults, the Fund will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreement related to the transaction, but the Fund may be delayed or prevented from obtaining payments owed to it pursuant to non-deliverable forward transactions. Such non-deliverable forward transactions will be settled in cash.

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The Fund may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts for hedging purposes in several circumstances. First, when the Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security quoted or denominated in a foreign currency, or when the Fund anticipates the receipt in a foreign currency of a dividend or interest payment on such a security which it holds, the Fund may desire to "lock in" the U.S. dollar price of the security or the U.S. dollar equivalent of such dividend or interest payment, as the case may be. By entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale, for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars, of the amount of foreign currency involved in the underlying transactions, the Fund may attempt to protect itself against an adverse change in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the subject foreign currency during the period between the date on which the security is purchased or sold, or on which the dividend or interest payment is declared, and the date on which such payments are made or received.

Additionally, when the Investment Adviser believes that the currency of a particular foreign country may suffer a substantial decline against the U.S. dollar, it may enter into a forward contract to sell, for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars, the amount of foreign currency approximating the value of some or all of the Fund's portfolio securities quoted or denominated in such foreign currency. The precise matching of the forward contract amounts and the value of the securities involved will not generally be possible because the future value of such securities in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements in the value of those securities between the date on which the contract is entered into and the date it matures. Using forward contracts to protect the value of the Fund's portfolio securities against a decline in the value of a currency does not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the securities. It simply establishes a rate of exchange which the Fund can achieve at some future point in time. The precise projection of short-term currency market movements is not possible, and short-term hedging provides a means of fixing the U.S. dollar value of only a portion of the Fund's foreign assets.

The Fund may engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in one currency to hedge against fluctuations in the value of securities denominated or quoted in a different currency if the Investment Adviser determines that there is a pattern of correlation between the two currencies. In addition, the Fund may enter into foreign currency transactions to seek a closer correlation between the Fund's overall currency exposures and the currency exposures of the Fund's performance benchmark.

The Fund is not required to post cash collateral with its non-U.S. counterparties in certain foreign currency transactions. Accordingly, the Fund may remain more fully invested (and more of the Fund's assets may be subject to investment and market risk) than if it were required to post collateral with its counterparties (which is the case with U.S. counterparties). Because the Fund's non-U.S. counterparties are not required to post cash collateral with the Fund, the Fund will be subject to additional counterparty risk.

While the Fund may enter into forward contracts to seek to reduce currency exchange rate risks, transactions in such contracts involve certain other risks. Thus, while the Fund may benefit from such transactions, unanticipated changes in currency prices may result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in any such transactions. Moreover, there may be imperfect correlation between the Fund's portfolio holdings of securities quoted or denominated in a particular currency and forward contracts entered into by the Fund. Such imperfect correlation may cause the Fund to sustain losses which will prevent the Fund from achieving a complete hedge or expose the Fund to risk of foreign exchange loss.

Certain forward foreign currency exchange contracts and other currency transactions are not exchange traded or cleared. Markets for trading such forward foreign currency contracts offer less protection against defaults than is available when trading in currency instruments on an exchange. Such forward contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the contract will default on its obligations. Because these contracts are not guaranteed by an exchange or clearinghouse, a default on a contract would deprive the Fund of unrealized profits, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or force the Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. In addition, the institutions that deal in forward currency contracts are not required to continue to make markets in the currencies they trade and these markets can experience periods of illiquidity. Forward contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to such contract will default on its obligations. Because a forward foreign currency exchange contract is not guaranteed by an exchange or clearinghouse, a default on the contract would deprive the Fund of unrealized profits, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or force a Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. The Fund will not enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts, unless the credit quality of the unsecured senior debt or the claims-paying ability of the counterparty is considered to be investment grade by the Investment Adviser. To the extent that a substantial portion of the Fund's total assets, adjusted to reflect the Fund's net position after giving effect to currency transactions, is denominated or quoted in the currencies of foreign countries, the Fund will be more susceptible to the risk of adverse economic and political developments within those countries.

**Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts** 

The Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts and may also purchase and write call and put options on futures contracts. The Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts based on various securities, securities indices, foreign currencies and other financial instruments and indices. Financial futures contracts used by the Fund may include interest rate futures contracts. The Fund may engage in futures and related options transactions in order to seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices or, to the extent the Fund invests in foreign securities, currency exchange rates, or to otherwise manage its term structure, sector selection and duration in accordance with its investment objective and policies. The Fund may also enter into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to such contracts and options.

Futures contracts utilized by funds have historically been traded on U.S. exchanges or boards of trade that are licensed and regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC") or, with respect to certain funds, on foreign exchanges. More recently, certain futures may also be traded either over-the-counter or on trading facilities such as derivatives transaction execution facilities, exempt boards of trade or electronic trading facilities that are licensed and/or regulated to varying degrees by the CFTC. Also, certain single stock futures and narrow based security index futures may be traded either over-the-counter or on trading facilities such as contract markets, derivatives transaction execution facilities and electronic trading facilities that are licensed and/or regulated to varying degrees by both the CFTC and the SEC, or on foreign exchanges.

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Neither the CFTC, National Futures Association ("NFA"), SEC nor any domestic exchange regulates activities of any foreign exchange or boards of trade, including the execution, delivery and clearing of transactions, or has the power to compel enforcement of the rules of a foreign exchange or board of trade or any applicable foreign law. This is true even if the exchange is formally linked to a domestic market so that a position taken on the market may be liquidated by a transaction on another market. Moreover, such laws or regulations will vary depending on the foreign country in which the foreign futures or foreign options transaction occurs. For these reasons, the Fund's investments in foreign futures or foreign options transactions may not be provided the same protections in respect of transactions on United States exchanges. In particular, persons who trade foreign futures or foreign options contracts may not be afforded certain of the protective measures provided by the CEA, the CFTC's regulations and the rules of the NFA and any domestic exchange, including the right to use reparations proceedings before the CFTC and arbitration proceedings provided by the NFA or any domestic futures exchange. Similarly, those persons may not have the protection of the U.S. securities laws.

*Futures Contracts*. A futures contract may generally be described as an agreement between two parties to buy and sell particular financial instruments or currencies for an agreed price during a designated month (or to deliver the final cash settlement price, in the case of a contract relating to an index or otherwise not calling for physical delivery at the end of trading in the contract).

When interest rates are rising or securities prices are falling, the Fund can seek through the sale of futures contracts to offset a decline in the value of its current portfolio securities. When interest rates are falling or securities prices are rising, the Fund, through the purchase of futures contracts, can attempt to secure better rates or prices than might later be available in the market when it effects anticipated purchases. Similarly, the Fund can purchase and sell futures contracts on a specified currency in order to seek to increase total return or to protect against changes in currency exchange rates. For example, the Fund may seek to offset anticipated changes in the value of a currency in which its portfolio securities, or securities that it intends to purchase, are quoted or denominated by purchasing and selling futures contracts on such currencies. As another example, the Fund may enter into futures transactions to seek a closer correlation between the Fund's overall currency exposures and the currency exposures of the Fund's performance benchmark.

Positions taken in the futures market are not normally held to maturity, but are instead liquidated through offsetting transactions which may result in a profit or a loss. While the Fund will usually liquidate futures contracts on securities or currency in this manner, the Fund may instead make or take delivery of the underlying securities or currency whenever it appears economically advantageous for the Fund to do so. A clearing corporation associated with the exchange on which futures on securities or currency are traded guarantees that, if still open, the sale or purchase will be performed on the settlement date.

*Hedging Strategies Using Futures Contracts*. When the Fund uses futures contracts for hedging purposes, the Fund often seeks to establish with more certainty than would otherwise be possible the effective price or rate of return on portfolio securities (or securities that the Fund proposes to acquire) or the exchange rate of currencies in which portfolio securities are quoted or denominated. The Fund may, for example, take a "short" position in the futures market by selling futures contracts to seek to hedge against an anticipated rise in interest rates or a decline in market prices or foreign currency rates that would adversely affect the dollar value of such Fund's portfolio securities. Similarly, the Fund may sell futures contracts on a currency in which its portfolio securities are quoted or denominated, or sell futures contracts on one currency to seek to hedge against fluctuations in the value of securities quoted or denominated in a different currency if there is an established historical pattern of correlation between the two currencies. If, in the opinion of the Investment Adviser, there is a sufficient degree of correlation between price trends for the Fund's portfolio securities and futures contracts based on other financial instruments, securities indices or other indices, the Fund may also enter into such futures contracts as part of a hedging strategy. Although under some circumstances prices of securities in the Fund's portfolio may be more or less volatile than prices of such futures contracts, the Investment Adviser will attempt to estimate the extent of this volatility difference based on historical patterns and compensate for any such differential by having the Fund enter into a greater or lesser number of futures contracts or by attempting to achieve only a partial hedge against price changes affecting the Fund's portfolio securities. When hedging of this character is successful, any depreciation in the value of portfolio securities will be substantially offset by appreciation in the value of the futures position. On the other hand, any unanticipated appreciation in the value of the Fund's portfolio securities would be substantially offset by a decline in the value of the futures position.

On other occasions, the Fund may take a "long" position by purchasing such futures contracts. This may be done, for example, when the Fund anticipates the subsequent purchase of particular securities when it has the necessary cash, but expects the prices or currency exchange rates then available in the applicable market to be less favorable than prices or rates that are currently available.

*Options on Futures Contracts*. The acquisition of put and call options on futures contracts will give the Fund the right (but not the obligation), for a specified price, to sell or to purchase, respectively, the underlying futures contract at any time during the option period. As the purchaser of an option on a futures contract, the Fund obtains the benefit of the futures position if prices move in a favorable direction but limits its risk of loss in the event of an unfavorable price movement to the loss of the premium and transaction costs.

The writing of a call option on a futures contract generates a premium which may partially offset a decline in the value of the Fund's assets. By writing a call option, the Fund becomes obligated, in exchange for the premium, to sell a futures contract if the option is exercised, which may have a value higher than the exercise price. The writing of a put option on a futures contract generates a premium, which may partially offset an increase in the price of securities that the Fund intends to purchase. However, the Fund becomes obligated (upon the exercise of the option) to purchase a futures contract if the option is exercised, which may have a value lower than the exercise price. Thus, the loss incurred by the Fund in writing options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. The Fund will incur transaction costs in connection with the writing of options on futures.

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The holder or writer of an option on a futures contract may terminate its position by selling or purchasing an offsetting option on the same financial instrument. There is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected. The Fund's ability to establish and close out positions on such options will be subject to the development and maintenance of a liquid market.

*Other Considerations*. The Fund will engage in transactions in futures contracts and related options transactions only to the extent such transactions are consistent with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") for maintaining its qualification as a regulated investment company for federal income tax purposes. Transactions in futures contracts and options on futures involve brokerage costs and require posting margin.

While transactions in futures contracts and options on futures may reduce certain risks, such transactions themselves entail certain other risks. Thus, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. When futures contracts and options are used for hedging purposes, perfect correlation between the Fund's futures positions and portfolio positions may be impossible to achieve, particularly where futures contracts based on individual equity or corporate fixed income securities are currently not available. In the event of an imperfect correlation between a futures position and a portfolio position which is intended to be protected, the desired protection may not be obtained and the Fund may be exposed to risk of loss.

In addition, it is not possible for the Fund to hedge fully or perfectly against currency fluctuations affecting the value of securities quoted or denominated in foreign currencies because the value of such securities is likely to fluctuate as a result of independent factors unrelated to currency fluctuations. The profitability of the Fund's trading in futures depends upon the ability of the Investment Adviser to analyze correctly the futures markets.

**High Yield Securities** 

The Fund may invest in bonds rated BB+ or below by S&P Global Ratings or Ba1 or below by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") (or comparable rated and unrated securities). These bonds are commonly referred to as "junk bonds," are non-investment grade and are considered speculative. The ability of issuers of high yield securities to make principal and interest payments may be questionable because such issuers are often less creditworthy or are highly leveraged and are generally less able than more established or less leveraged entities to make scheduled payments of principal and interest. High yield securities are also issued by governmental issuers that may have difficulty in making all scheduled interest and principal payments. In some cases, high yield securities may be highly speculative, have poor prospects for reaching investment grade standing and be in default. As a result, investment in such bonds will entail greater risks than those associated with investments in investment grade bonds (i.e., bonds rated AAA, AA, A or BBB by S&P Global Ratings or Aaa, Aa, A or Baa by Moody's). Analysis of the creditworthiness of issuers of high yield securities may be more complex than for issuers of higher quality debt securities, and the ability of the Fund to achieve its investment objective may, to the extent of its investments in high yield securities, be more dependent upon such creditworthiness analysis than would be the case if the Fund were investing in higher quality securities. See Appendix A for a description of the corporate bond and preferred stock ratings by S&P Global Ratings, Moody's, Fitch Ratings, Inc. and DBRS, Inc.

The market values of high yield securities tend to reflect individual corporate or municipal developments to a greater extent than do those of higher rated securities, which react primarily to fluctuations in the general level of interest rates. Issuers of high yield securities that are highly leveraged may not be able to make use of more traditional methods of financing. Their ability to service debt obligations may be more adversely affected by economic downturns or their inability to meet specific projected business forecasts than would be the case for issuers of higher-rated securities. Negative publicity about the junk bond market and investor perceptions regarding lower-rated securities, whether or not based on fundamental analysis, may depress the prices for such high yield securities. In the lower quality segments of the fixed income securities market, changes in perceptions of issuers' creditworthiness tend to occur more frequently and in a more pronounced manner than do changes in higher quality segments of the fixed income securities market, resulting in greater yield and price volatility. Another factor which causes fluctuations in the prices of high yield securities is the supply and demand for similarly rated securities. In addition, the prices of investments fluctuate in response to the general level of interest rates. Fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities subsequent to their acquisition will not affect cash income from such securities but will be reflected in the NAV of the Fund.

The risk of loss from default for the holders of high yield securities is significantly greater than is the case for holders of other debt securities because such high yield securities are generally unsecured and are often subordinated to the rights of other creditors of the issuers of such securities. Investment by the Fund in already defaulted securities poses an additional risk of loss should nonpayment of principal and interest continue in respect of such securities. Even if such securities are held to maturity, recovery by the Fund of its initial investment and any anticipated income or appreciation is uncertain. In addition, the Fund may incur additional expenses to the extent that it is required to seek recovery relating to the default in the payment of principal or interest on such securities or otherwise protect its interests. The Fund may be required to liquidate other portfolio securities to satisfy annual distribution obligations of the Fund in respect of accrued interest income on securities which are subsequently written off, even though the Fund has not received any cash payments of such interest.

The secondary market for high yield securities is concentrated in relatively few markets and is dominated by institutional investors, including mutual funds, insurance companies and other financial institutions. Accordingly, the secondary market for such securities may not be as liquid as and may be more volatile than the secondary market for higher-rated securities. In addition, the trading volume for high yield securities is generally lower than that of higher rated securities. The secondary market for high yield securities could contract under adverse market or economic conditions independent of any specific adverse changes in the condition of a particular issuer. These factors may have an adverse effect on the ability of the Fund to dispose of particular portfolio investments when needed to meet its redemption requests or other liquidity needs. The Investment Adviser could find it difficult to sell these investments or may be able to sell the investments only at prices lower than if such investments were widely traded. Prices realized upon the sale of such lower rated or unrated securities, under these circumstances, may be less than the prices used in calculating the NAVs of the Fund. A less liquid secondary market also may make it more difficult for the Fund to obtain precise valuations of the high yield securities in its portfolio.

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The adoption of new legislation could adversely affect the secondary market for high yield securities and the financial condition of issuers of these securities. The form of any future legislation, and the probability of such legislation being enacted, is uncertain.

Non-investment grade or high yield securities also present risks based on payment expectations. High yield securities frequently contain "call" or buy-back features which permit the issuer to call or repurchase the security from its holder. If an issuer exercises such a "call option" and redeems the security, the Fund may have to replace such security with a lower-yielding security, resulting in a decreased return for investors. In addition, if the Fund experiences net redemptions of its shares by Authorized Participants (as defined below) and redeems shares in cash it may be forced to sell its higher-rated securities, resulting in a decline in the overall credit quality of its portfolio and increasing its exposure to the risks of high yield securities.

Credit ratings issued by credit rating agencies are designed to evaluate the safety of principal and interest payments of rated securities. They do not, however, evaluate the market value risk of high yield securities and, therefore, may not fully reflect the true risks of an investment. In addition, credit rating agencies may or may not make timely changes in a rating to reflect changes in the economy or in the conditions of the issuer that affect the market value of the security. Consequently, credit ratings are used only as a preliminary indicator of investment quality. Investments in non-investment grade and comparable unrated obligations will be more dependent on the Investment Adviser's credit analysis than would be the case with investments in investment-grade debt obligations. The Investment Adviser employs its own credit research and analysis, which includes a study of an issuer's existing debt, capital structure, ability to service debt and to pay dividends, sensitivity to economic conditions, operating history and current earnings trend. The Investment Adviser continually monitors the investments in the Fund's portfolio and evaluates whether to dispose of or to retain non-investment grade and comparable unrated securities whose credit ratings or credit quality may have changed. If after its purchase, a portfolio security is assigned a lower rating or ceases to be rated, the Fund may continue to hold the security if the Investment Adviser believes it is in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders may not accurately reflect credit quality.

An economic downturn could severely affect the ability of highly leveraged issuers of junk bond investments to service their debt obligations or to repay their obligations upon maturity. Factors having an adverse impact on the market value of junk bonds will have an adverse effect on the Fund's NAV to the extent it invests in such investments. In addition, the Fund may incur additional expenses to the extent it is required to seek recovery upon a default in payment of principal or interest on its portfolio holdings.

These and other factors discussed in the section below, titled "Illiquid Investments," may impact the liquidity of investments in high yield securities.

**Illiquid Investments** 

Pursuant to Rule 22e-4 under the Investment Company Act, the Fund may not acquire any "illiquid investment" if, immediately after the acquisition, the Fund would have invested more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments that are assets. An "illiquid investment" is any investment that the Fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. Illiquid investments include repurchase agreements with a notice or demand period of more than seven days, certain stripped mortgage-backed securities, certain municipal leases, certain over-the-counter derivative instruments, securities and other financial instruments that are not readily marketable, and Restricted Securities unless, based upon a review of the relevant market, trading and investment-specific considerations, those investments are determined not to be illiquid. The Trust has implemented a liquidity risk management program and related procedures to identify illiquid investments pursuant to Rule 22e-4, and the Trustees have approved the designation of the Investment Adviser to administer the Trust's liquidity risk management program and related procedures. In determining whether an investment is an illiquid investment, the Investment Adviser will take into account actual or estimated daily transaction volume of an investment, group of related investments or asset class and other relevant market, trading, and investment-specific considerations. In addition, in determining the liquidity of an investment, the Investment Adviser must determine whether trading varying portions of a position in a particular portfolio investment or asset class, in sizes that the Fund would reasonably anticipate trading, is reasonably expected to significantly affect its liquidity, and if so, the Fund must take this determination into account when classifying the liquidity of that investment or asset class.

In addition to actual or estimated daily transaction volume of an investment, group of related investments or asset class and other relevant market, trading, and investment-specific considerations, the following factors, among others, will generally impact the classification of an investment as an "illiquid investment": (i) any investment that is placed on the Investment Adviser's restricted trading list; and (ii) any investment that is delisted or for which there is a trading halt at the close of the trading day on the primary listing exchange at the time of classification (and in respect of which no active secondary market exists). Investments purchased by the Fund that are liquid at the time of purchase may subsequently become illiquid due to these and other events and circumstances. If one or more investments in the Fund's portfolio become illiquid, the Fund may exceed the 15% limitation in illiquid investments. In the event that changes in the portfolio or other external events cause the Fund to exceed this limit, the Fund must take steps to bring its illiquid investments that are assets to or below 15% of its net assets within a reasonable period of time. This requirement would not force the Fund to liquidate any portfolio instrument where the Fund would suffer a loss on the sale of that instrument.

**Index Swaps, Interest Rate Swaps, Mortgage Swaps, Credit Swaps, Currency Swaps, Total Return Swaps, Equity Swaps, Options on Swaps and Interest Rate Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars** 

The Fund may enter into index, interest rate, mortgage, credit, currency and total return swaps. The Fund may also enter into interest rate caps, floors, collars and currency swaps. The Fund may also purchase and write (sell) options contracts on swaps, commonly referred to as swaptions.

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The Fund may enter into swap transactions for hedging purposes or to seek to increase total return. As examples, the Fund may enter into swap transactions for the purpose of attempting to obtain or preserve a particular return or spread at a lower cost than obtaining a return or spread through purchases and/or sales of instruments in other markets, to protect against currency fluctuations, as a duration management technique, to protect against any increase in the price of securities the Fund anticipates purchasing at a later date, or to gain exposure to certain markets in an economical way.

In a standard "swap" transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns, differentials in rates of return or some other amount earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments, which may be adjusted for an interest factor. The gross returns to be exchanged or "swapped" between the parties are generally calculated with respect to a "notional amount," i.e., the return on or increase in value of a particular dollar amount invested at a particular interest rate, in a particular foreign currency or security, or in a "basket" of securities representing a particular index. Bilateral swap agreements are two party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors. Cleared swaps are transacted through futures commission merchants ("FCMs") that are members of central clearinghouses with the clearinghouse serving as a central counterparty similar to transactions in futures contracts. The Fund posts initial and variation margin by making payments to their clearing member FCMs.

Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by the Fund with another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive payments for floating rate payments based on interest rates at specified intervals in the future. Two types of interest rate swaps include "fixed-for-floating rate swaps" and "basis swaps." Fixed-for-floating rate swaps involve the exchange of payments based on a fixed interest rate for payments based on a floating interest rate index. By contrast, basis swaps involve the exchange of payments based on two different floating interest rate indices. Mortgage swaps are similar to interest rate swaps in that they represent commitments to pay and receive interest. The notional principal amount, however, is tied to a reference pool or pools of mortgages.

Index swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with another party of payments based on a notional principal amount of a specified index or indices.

Currency swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with another party of their respective rights to make or receive payments in specified currencies.

Credit default swaps (also referred to as credit swaps) involve the exchange of a floating or fixed rate payment in return for assuming potential credit losses of an underlying security or pool of securities. Loan credit default swaps are similar to credit default swaps on bonds, except that the underlying protection is sold on secured loans of a reference entity rather than a broader category of bonds or loans. Loan credit default swaps may be on single names or on baskets of loans, both tranched and untranched.

The Fund may obtain exposure to senior secured floating rate and fixed rate loans or debt ("Senior Loans") through the use of derivative instruments including loan credit default swaps. Investments in loan credit default swaps involve many of the risks associated with investments in derivatives more generally. Currency swaps involve the exchange of the parties' respective rights to make or receive payments in specified currencies. Total return swaps are contracts that obligate a party to pay or receive interest in exchange for payment by the other party of the total return generated by a security, a basket of securities, an index, or an index component. Equity swap contracts may be structured in different ways. For example, an equity swap contract may be structured as a total return swap, where a counterparty may agree to pay the Fund the amount, if any, by which the notional amount of the equity swap contract would have increased in value had it been invested in particular stocks (or a group of stocks), plus the dividends that would have been received on those stocks. In other cases, the counterparty and the Fund may each agree to pay the other the difference between the relative investment performances that would have been achieved if the notional amount of the equity swap contract had been invested in different stocks (or a group of stocks).

A swaption is an option to enter into a swap agreement. Like other types of options, the buyer of a swaption pays a non-refundable premium for the option and obtains the right, but not the obligation, to enter into or modify an underlying swap or to modify the terms of an existing swap on agreed-upon terms. The seller of a swaption, in exchange for the premium, becomes obligated (if the option is exercised) to enter into or modify an underlying swap on agreed-upon terms, which generally entails a greater risk of loss than incurred in buying a swaption. The purchase of an interest rate cap entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index exceeds a predetermined interest rate, to receive payment of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling such interest rate cap. The purchase of an interest rate floor entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index falls below a predetermined interest rate, to receive payments of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling the interest rate floor. An interest rate collar is the combination of a cap and a floor that preserves a certain return within a predetermined range of interest rates.

A great deal of flexibility may be possible in the way swap transactions are structured. However, generally the Fund will enter into interest rate, total return, credit, mortgage and equity swaps on a net basis, which means that the two payment streams are netted out, with the Fund receiving or paying, as the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. Interest rate, total return, credit, mortgage and equity swaps do not normally involve the delivery of securities, other underlying assets or principal. Accordingly, the risk of loss with respect to interest rate, total return, credit, mortgage and equity swaps is normally limited to the net amount of payments that the Fund is contractually obligated to make. If the other party to an interest rate, total return, credit, mortgage or equity swap defaults, the Fund's risk of loss consists of the net amount of interest payments that the Fund is contractually entitled to receive, if any.

In contrast, currency swaps usually involve the delivery of a gross payment stream in one designated currency in exchange for a gross payment stream in another designated currency. Therefore, the entire payment stream under a currency swap is subject to the risk that the other party to the swap will default on its contractual delivery obligations. A credit swap may have as reference obligations one or more securities that may, or may not, be currently held by the Fund. The protection "buyer" in a credit swap is generally obligated to pay the protection "seller" an upfront or a periodic stream of payments over the term of the swap provided that no credit event, such as a default, on a reference obligation has occurred. If a credit event occurs, the seller generally must pay the buyer the "par value" (full notional value) of the swap in exchange for an equal face amount of

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deliverable obligations of the reference entity described in the swap, or the seller may be required to deliver the related net cash amount, if the swap is cash settled. The Fund may be either the protection buyer or seller in the transaction. If the Fund is a buyer and no credit event occurs, the Fund may recover nothing if the swap is held through its termination date. However, if a credit event occurs, the buyer generally may elect to receive the full notional value of the swap in exchange for an equal face amount of deliverable obligations of the reference entity whose value may have significantly decreased. As a seller, the Fund generally receives an upfront payment or a rate of income throughout the term of the swap provided that there is no credit event. As the seller, the Fund would effectively add leverage to its portfolio because, in addition to its total net assets, the Fund would be subject to investment exposure on the notional amount of the swap. If a credit event occurs, the value of any deliverable obligation received by the Fund as seller, coupled with the upfront or periodic payments previously received, may be less than the full notional value it pays to the buyer, resulting in a loss of value to the Fund.

As a result of recent regulatory developments, certain standardized swaps are currently subject to mandatory central clearing and some of these cleared swaps must be traded on an exchange or swap execution facility ("SEF"). A SEF is a trading platform in which multiple market participants can execute swap transactions by accepting bids and offers made by multiple other participants on the platform. Transactions executed on a SEF may increase market transparency and liquidity but may cause the Fund to incur increased expenses to execute swaps. Central clearing should decrease counterparty risk and increase liquidity compared to bilateral swaps because central clearing interposes the central clearinghouse as the counterparty to each participant's swap. However, central clearing does not eliminate counterparty risk or liquidity risk entirely. In addition, depending on the size of the Fund and other factors, the margin required under the rules of a clearinghouse and by a clearing member may be in excess of the collateral required to be posted by the Fund to support its obligations under a similar bilateral swap. However, the CFTC and other applicable regulators have adopted rules imposing certain margin requirements, including minimums, on uncleared swaps which may result in the Fund and its counterparties posting higher margin amounts for uncleared swaps. Requiring margin on uncleared swaps may reduce, but not eliminate, counterparty credit risk.

The use of swaps and swaptions, as well as interest rate caps, floors and collars, is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The use of a swap requires an understanding not only of the referenced asset, reference rate, or index but also of the swap itself, without the benefit of observing the performance of the swap under all possible market conditions. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its forecasts of market values, credit quality, interest rates and currency exchange rates, the investment performance of the Fund would be less favorable than it would have been if these investment instruments were not used.

In addition, these transactions can involve greater risks than if the Fund had invested in the reference obligation directly because, in addition to general market risks, swaps are subject to liquidity risk, counterparty risk, credit risk and pricing risk. Regulators also may impose limits on an entity's or group of entities' positions in certain swaps. However, certain risks are reduced (but not eliminated) if the Fund invests in cleared swaps. Bilateral swap agreements are two party contracts that may have terms of greater than seven days.

Moreover, the Fund bears the risk of loss of the amount expected to be received under a swap agreement in the event of the default or bankruptcy of a swap counterparty. Many swaps are complex and often valued subjectively. Swaps and other derivatives may also be subject to pricing or "basis" risk, which exists when the price of a particular derivative diverges from the price of corresponding cash market instruments. Under certain market conditions it may not be economically feasible to imitate a transaction or liquidate a position in time to avoid a loss or take advantage of an opportunity. If a swap transaction is particularly large or if the relevant market is illiquid, it may not be possible to initiate a transaction or liquidate a position at an advantageous time or price, which may result in significant losses.

Certain rules also require centralized reporting of detailed information about many types of cleared and uncleared swaps. This information is available to regulators and, to a more limited extent and on an anonymous basis, to the public. Reporting of swap data may result in greater market transparency, which may be beneficial to funds that use swaps to implement trading strategies. However, these rules place potential additional administrative obligations on these funds, and the safeguards established to protect anonymity may not function as expected.

The swap market has grown substantially in recent years with a large number of banks and investment banking firms acting both as principals and as agents utilizing standardized swap documentation. As a result, the swap market has become relatively liquid in comparison with the markets for other similar instruments which are traded in the interbank market. These and other factors discussed in the section above, titled "Illiquid Investments," may impact the liquidity of investments in swaps.

**Investments in Unseasoned Companies** 

The Fund may invest in companies (including predecessors) which have operated less than three years. The securities of such companies may have limited liquidity, which can result in their being priced higher or lower than might otherwise be the case. In addition, investments in unseasoned companies are more speculative and entail greater risk than do investments in companies with an established operating record.

**Lending of Portfolio Securities** 

The Fund may lend its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other institutions, including Goldman Sachs. By lending its securities, the Fund attempts to increase its net investment income. For additional information about the Fund's securities lending activities for the most recent fiscal year, if any, see the section of this SAI titled "SECURITIES LENDING".

Securities loans are required to be secured continuously by collateral in cash, cash equivalents, letters of credit or U.S. Government Securities equal to at least 100% of the value of the loaned securities. This collateral must be valued, or "marked to market," daily. Borrowers are required to furnish additional collateral to the Fund as necessary to fully cover their obligations to return the loaned securities on demand or at the end of the agreed loan period.

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With respect to loans that are collateralized by cash, the Fund may reinvest that cash in short-term investments (generally by investing in the Goldman Sachs Financial Square Government Fund) and pay the borrower a pre-negotiated fee or rebate from any return earned on the investment. Investing the collateral subjects the Fund to market depreciation or appreciation, and the Fund is responsible for any loss that may result from its investment of the collateral. Cash collateral may be invested in, among other things, other registered or unregistered funds, including private investment funds or money market funds that are managed by the Investment Adviser or its affiliates, and which pay the Investment Adviser or its affiliates for their services. If the Fund were to receive non-cash collateral, the Fund receives a fee from the borrower equal to a negotiated percentage of the market value of the loaned securities.

For the duration of any securities loan, the Fund will continue to receive the equivalent of the interest, dividends or other distributions paid by the issuer on the loaned securities. Although the Fund will not have the right to vote its loaned securities during the period of the loan, the Fund may attempt to recall a loaned security in anticipation of a vote if it desires to do so. A recall involves the termination of the securities loan. The Fund will have the right to terminate a securities loan at any time and if the Fund does so, it is entitled to receive the loaned securities within the normal and customary settlement time for securities transactions. While certain Goldman Sachs Funds (e.g., those managed by the Fundamental Equity Team) generally will seek to recall a loaned security for the purpose of voting, other Goldman Sachs Funds (e.g., those managed by the Quantitative Investment Strategies and Quantitative Equity Strategies Teams) generally will not seek to recall a loaned security for the purpose of voting. If a Fund attempts to recall a loaned security, there is no guarantee that any such recall request will be satisfied in time for the Fund to vote the shares in question.

Securities lending involves certain risks. The Fund may lose money on its investment of cash collateral, resulting in a loss of principal, or may fail to earn sufficient income on its investment to cover the fee or rebate it has agreed to pay the borrower. The Fund may incur losses in connection with its securities lending activities that exceed the value of the interest income and fees received in connection with such transactions. Securities lending also subjects the Fund to the risk of loss resulting from problems in the settlement and accounting process, and to additional credit, counterparty and market risk. These risks could be greater with respect to a Fund that loans non-U.S. securities. In addition, the Fund bears the risk that the value of the securities on loan will increase while they are on loan, or that the value of the collateral will decline during the period of the loan, and that the counterparty will not provide, or will delay in providing, additional collateral. The Fund also bears the risk that a borrower may fail to return loaned securities in a timely manner or at all, either because the borrower fails financially or for other reasons. If a borrower of securities fails financially, the Fund may also lose its rights in the collateral. The Fund could experience delays and costs in recovering loaned securities or in gaining access to and liquidating the collateral, which could result in actual financial loss and which could interfere with portfolio management decisions or the exercise of ownership rights in the loaned securities (including voting the loaned securities in question). If the Fund is not able to recover the loaned securities, the Fund may sell the collateral and purchase replacement securities in the market. However, the Fund will incur transaction costs on the purchase of replacement securities. These events could trigger adverse tax consequences for the Fund. In determining whether to lend securities or terminate a loan of securities to a particular borrower, the creditworthiness of the borrower will be considered and monitored throughout the period of the loan. Loans will only be made to firms deemed to be of good standing, and where the consideration that can be earned currently from securities loans of this type is deemed to justify the attendant risk. It is intended that the value of securities loaned by the Fund will not exceed one-third of the value of the Fund's total assets (including the loan collateral).

The Fund will consider the loaned securities as assets of the Fund, but will not consider any collateral as the Fund asset except when determining total assets for the purpose of the above one-third limitation. Loan collateral (including any investment of the collateral) is not subject to the percentage limitations stated elsewhere in this SAI or in the Prospectus regarding investing in fixed income securities and cash equivalents.

The Board of Trustees has approved each Fund's participation in a securities lending program and has adopted policies and procedures relating thereto. Certain Goldman Sachs Funds have retained an affiliate of the Investment Adviser to serve as their securities lending agent.

For its services, the securities lending agent may receive a fee from the Fund , including a fee based on the returns earned on the Fund's investment of cash received as collateral for the loaned securities. In addition, the Fund may make brokerage and other payments to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates in connection with the Fund's portfolio investment transactions. The Fund's Board of Trustees periodically reviews reports on securities loan transactions for which a Goldman Sachs affiliate has acted as lending agent for compliance with the Fund's securities lending procedures. Goldman Sachs may also be approved as a borrower under the Fund's securities lending program, subject to certain conditions.

**Mortgage Dollar Rolls** 

The Fund may enter into mortgage dollar rolls, in which the Fund sells securities for delivery in the current month and simultaneously contracts with the same counterparty to repurchase similar, but not identical securities on a specified future date. During the roll period, the Fund loses the right to receive principal and interest paid on the securities sold. However, the Fund would benefit to the extent of any difference between the price received for the securities sold and the lower forward price for the future purchase or fee income plus the interest earned on the cash proceeds of the securities sold until the settlement date of the forward purchase. All cash proceeds will be invested in instruments that are permissible investments for the applicable Fund.

For financial reporting and tax purposes, the Fund treats mortgage dollar rolls as two separate transactions; one involving the purchase of a security and a separate transaction involving a sale. The Fund does not currently intend to enter into mortgage dollar rolls for financing and do not treat them as borrowings.

Mortgage dollar rolls involve certain risks including the following: if the broker-dealer to whom the Fund sells the security becomes insolvent, the Fund's right to purchase or repurchase the mortgage-related securities subject to the mortgage dollar roll may be restricted. Also, the instrument which the Fund is required to repurchase may be worth less than an instrument which the Fund originally held. Successful use of mortgage dollar rolls will depend upon the Investment Adviser's ability to manage the Fund's interest rate and mortgage prepayments exposure. For these reasons, there is no assurance that mortgage dollar rolls can be successfully employed. The use of this technique may diminish the investment performance of the Fund compared with what such performance would have been without the use of mortgage dollar rolls.

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**Mortgage Loans and Mortgage-Backed Securities** 

The Fund may invest in mortgage loans, mortgage pass-through securities and other securities representing an interest in or collateralized by adjustable and fixed-rate mortgage loans including collateralized mortgage obligations, real estate mortgage investment conduits ("REMICs") and stripped mortgage-backed securities, as described below ("Mortgage-Backed Securities").

Mortgage-Backed Securities are subject to both call risk and extension risk. Because of these risks, these securities can have significantly greater price and yield volatility than traditional fixed income securities.

**<u>General Characteristics of Mortgage Backed Securities</u>**

In general, each mortgage pool underlying Mortgage-Backed Securities consists of mortgage loans evidenced by promissory notes secured by first mortgages or first deeds of trust or other similar security instruments creating a first lien on owner occupied and non-owner occupied one-unit to four-unit residential properties, multi-family (i.e., five-units or more) properties, agricultural properties, commercial properties and mixed use properties (the "Mortgaged Properties"). The Mortgaged Properties may consist of detached individual dwelling units, multi-family dwelling units, individual condominiums, townhouses, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, row houses, individual units in planned unit developments, other attached dwelling units ("Residential Mortgaged Properties") or commercial properties, such as office properties, retail properties, hospitality properties, industrial properties, healthcare related properties or other types of income producing real property ("Commercial Mortgaged Properties"). Residential Mortgaged Properties may also include residential investment properties and second homes. In addition, the Mortgage-Backed Securities which are residential mortgage-backed securities may also consist of mortgage loans evidenced by promissory notes secured entirely or in part by second priority mortgage liens on Residential Mortgaged Properties.

The investment characteristics of adjustable and fixed rate Mortgage-Backed Securities differ from those of traditional fixed income securities. The major differences include the payment of interest and principal on Mortgage-Backed Securities on a more frequent (usually monthly) schedule, and the possibility that principal may be prepaid at any time due to prepayments on the underlying mortgage loans or other assets. These differences can result in significantly greater price and yield volatility than is the case with traditional fixed income securities. As a result, if the Fund purchases Mortgage-Backed Securities at a premium, a faster than expected prepayment rate will reduce both the market value and the yield to maturity from their anticipated levels. A prepayment rate that is slower than expected will have the opposite effect, increasing yield to maturity and market value. Conversely, if the Fund purchases Mortgage-Backed Securities at a discount, faster than expected prepayments will increase, while slower than expected prepayments will reduce yield to maturity and market value. To the extent that the Fund invests in Mortgage-Backed Securities, the Investment Adviser may seek to manage these potential risks by investing in a variety of Mortgage-Backed Securities and by using certain hedging techniques.

Prepayments on a pool of mortgage loans are influenced by changes in current interest rates and a variety of economic, geographic, social and other factors (such as changes in mortgagor housing needs, job transfers, unemployment, mortgagor equity in the mortgage properties and servicing decisions). The timing and level of prepayments cannot be predicted. A predominant factor affecting the prepayment rate on a pool of mortgage loans is the difference between the interest rates on outstanding mortgage loans and prevailing mortgage loan interest rates (giving consideration to the cost of any refinancing). Generally, prepayments on mortgage loans will increase during a period of falling mortgage interest rates and decrease during a period of rising mortgage interest rates. Accordingly, the amounts of prepayments available for reinvestment by the Fund are likely to be greater during a period of declining mortgage interest rates. If general interest rates decline, such prepayments are likely to be reinvested at lower interest rates than the Fund was earning on the Mortgage-Backed Securities that were prepaid. Due to these factors, Mortgage-Backed Securities may be less effective than U.S. Treasury and other types of debt securities of similar maturity at maintaining yields during periods of declining interest rates. Because the Fund's investments in Mortgage-Backed Securities are interest-rate sensitive, the Fund's performance will depend in part upon the ability of the Fund to anticipate and respond to fluctuations in market interest rates and to utilize appropriate strategies to maximize returns to the Fund while attempting to minimize the associated risks to its investment capital. Prepayments may have a disproportionate effect on certain Mortgage-Backed Securities and other multiple class pass-through securities, which are discussed below.

The rate of interest paid on Mortgage-Backed Securities is normally lower than the rate of interest paid on the mortgages included in the underlying pool due to (among other things) the fees paid to any servicer, special servicer and trustee for the trust fund which holds the mortgage pool, other costs and expenses of such trust fund, fees paid to any guarantor, such as Ginnie Mae (as defined below) or to any credit enhancers, mortgage pool insurers, bond insurers and/or hedge providers, and due to any yield retained by the issuer. Actual yield to the holder may vary from the coupon rate, even if adjustable, if the Mortgage-Backed Securities are purchased or traded in the secondary market at a premium or discount. In addition, there is normally some delay between the time the issuer receives mortgage payments from the servicer and the time the issuer (or the trustee of the trust fund which holds the mortgage pool) makes the payments on the Mortgage-Backed Securities, and this delay reduces the effective yield to the holder of such securities.

The issuers of certain mortgage-backed obligations may elect to have the pool of mortgage loans (or indirect interests in mortgage loans) underlying the securities treated as a REMIC, which is subject to special federal income tax rules. A description of the types of mortgage loans and Mortgage-Backed Securities in which the Fund may invest is provided below. The descriptions are general and summary in nature, and do not detail every possible variation of the types of securities that are permissible investments for the Fund.

Delinquencies, defaults and losses on residential mortgage loans may increase substantially over certain periods, which may affect the performance of the Mortgage-Backed Securities in which the Fund may invest. Mortgage loans backing non-agency Mortgage-Backed Securities are more sensitive to economic factors that could affect the ability of borrowers to pay their obligations under the mortgage loans backing these

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securities. In addition, housing prices and appraisal values in many states and localities over certain periods have declined or stopped appreciating. A sustained decline or an extended flattening of those values may result in additional increases in delinquencies and losses on Mortgage-Backed Securities generally.

Adverse changes in market conditions and regulatory climate may reduce the cash flow which the Fund, to the extent it invests in Mortgage-Backed Securities or other asset-backed securities, receives from such securities and increase the incidence and severity of credit events and losses in respect of such securities. In the event that interest rate spreads for Mortgage-Backed Securities and other asset-backed securities widen following the purchase of such assets by the Fund, the market value of such securities is likely to decline and, in the case of a substantial spread widening, could decline by a substantial amount. Furthermore, adverse changes in market conditions may result in reduced liquidity in the market for Mortgage-Backed Securities and other asset-backed securities (including the Mortgage-Backed Securities and other asset-backed securities in which the Fund may invest) and an unwillingness by banks, financial institutions and investors to extend credit to servicers, originators and other participants in the market for Mortgage-Backed and other asset-backed securities. As a result, the liquidity and/or the market value of any Mortgage-Backed or asset-backed securities that are owned by the Fund may experience declines after they are purchased by the Fund.

**<u>General Regulatory Considerations of Mortgage-Backed Securities</u>**

The unprecedented disruption in the mortgage- and asset-backed securities markets in 2008-2009 resulted in significant downward price pressures as well as foreclosures and defaults in residential and commercial real estate. As a result of these events, the liquidity of the mortgage- and asset-backed securities markets was negatively impacted during that time. Following the market dislocation, the U.S. Congress passed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the "Dodd-Frank Act"), which imposed a new regulatory framework over the U.S. financial services industry and the consumer credit markets in general. Among its other provisions, the Dodd-Frank Act creates a liquidation framework under which the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"), may be appointed as receiver following a "systemic risk determination" by the Secretary of Treasury (in consultation with the President) for the resolution of certain nonbank financial companies and other entities, defined as "covered financial companies", and commonly referred to as "systemically important entities", in the event such a company is in default or in danger of default and the resolution of such a company under other applicable law would have serious adverse effects on financial stability in the United States, and also for the resolution of certain of their subsidiaries. No assurances can be given that this new liquidation framework would not apply to the originators of asset-backed securities, including Mortgage-Backed Securities, or their respective subsidiaries, including the issuers and depositors of such securities, although the expectation embedded in the Dodd-Frank Act is that the framework will be invoked only very rarely. Guidance from the FDIC indicates that such new framework will largely be exercised in a manner consistent with the existing bankruptcy laws, which is the insolvency regime that would otherwise apply to the sponsors, depositors and issuing entities with respect to asset-backed securities, including Mortgage-Backed Securities. The application of such liquidation framework to such entities could result in decreases or delays in amounts paid on, and hence the market value of, the Mortgage-Backed or asset-backed securities that may be owned by the Fund.

<u>Certain General Characteristics of Mortgage Loans</u> 

<u>Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loans ("ARMs")</u>. The Fund may invest in ARMs. ARMs generally provide for a fixed initial mortgage interest rate for a specified period of time. Thereafter, the interest rates (the "Mortgage Interest Rates") may be subject to periodic adjustment based on changes in the applicable index rate (the "Index Rate"). The adjusted rate would be equal to the Index Rate plus a fixed percentage spread over the Index Rate established for each ARM at the time of its origination. ARMs allow the Fund to participate in increases in interest rates through periodic increases in the securities coupon rates. During periods of declining interest rates, coupon rates may readjust downward resulting in lower yields to the Fund.

Adjustable interest rates can cause payment increases that some mortgagors may find difficult to make. However, certain ARMs may provide that the Mortgage Interest Rate may not be adjusted to a rate above an applicable lifetime maximum rate or below an applicable lifetime minimum rate for such ARM. Certain ARMs may also be subject to limitations on the maximum amount by which the Mortgage Interest Rate may adjust for any single adjustment period (the "Maximum Adjustment"). Other ARMs ("Negatively Amortizing ARMs") may provide instead or as well for limitations on changes in the monthly payment on such ARMs. Limitations on monthly payments can result in monthly payments which are greater or less than the amount necessary to amortize a Negatively Amortizing ARM by its maturity at the Mortgage Interest Rate in effect in any particular month. In the event that a monthly payment is not sufficient to pay the interest accruing on a Negatively Amortizing ARM, any such excess interest is added to the principal balance of the loan, causing negative amortization, and will be repaid through future monthly payments. It may take borrowers under Negatively Amortizing ARMs longer periods of time to build up equity and may increase the likelihood of default by such borrowers. In the event that a monthly payment exceeds the sum of the interest accrued at the applicable Mortgage Interest Rate and the principal payment which would have been necessary to amortize the outstanding principal balance over the remaining term of the loan, the excess (or "accelerated amortization") further reduces the principal balance of the ARM. Negatively Amortizing ARMs do not provide for the extension of their original maturity to accommodate changes in their Mortgage Interest Rate. As a result, unless there is a periodic recalculation of the payment amount (which there generally is), the final payment may be substantially larger than the other payments. After the expiration of the initial fixed rate period and upon the periodic recalculation of the payment to cause timely amortization of the related mortgage loan, the monthly payment on such mortgage loan may increase substantially which may, in turn, increase the risk of the borrower defaulting in respect of such mortgage loan. These limitations on periodic increases in interest rates and on changes in monthly payments protect borrowers from unlimited interest rate and payment increases, but may result in increased credit exposure and prepayment risks for lenders. When interest due on a mortgage loan is added to the principal balance of such mortgage loan, the related mortgaged property provides proportionately less security for the repayment of such mortgage loan. Therefore, if the related borrower defaults on such mortgage loan, there is a greater likelihood that a loss will be incurred upon any liquidation of the mortgaged property which secures such mortgage loan.

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ARMs also have the risk of prepayment. The rate of principal prepayments with respect to ARMs has fluctuated in recent years. The value of Mortgage-Backed Securities collateralized by ARMs is less likely to rise during periods of declining interest rates than the value of fixed-rate securities during such periods. Accordingly, ARMs may be subject to a greater rate of principal repayments in a declining interest rate environment resulting in lower yields to the Fund. For example, if prevailing interest rates fall significantly, ARMs could be subject to higher prepayment rates (than if prevailing interest rates remain constant or increase) because the availability of low fixed-rate mortgages may encourage mortgagors to refinance their ARMs to "lock-in" a fixed-rate mortgage. On the other hand, during periods of rising interest rates, the value of ARMs will lag behind changes in the market rate. ARMs are also typically subject to maximum increases and decreases in the interest rate adjustment which can be made on any one adjustment date, in any one year, or during the life of the security. In the event of dramatic increases or decreases in prevailing market interest rates, the value of the Fund's investment in ARMs may fluctuate more substantially because these limits may prevent the security from fully adjusting its interest rate to the prevailing market rates. As with fixed-rate mortgages, ARM prepayment rates vary in both stable and changing interest rate environments. There are two main categories of indices which provide the basis for rate adjustments on ARMs: those based on U.S. Treasury securities and those derived from a calculated measure, such as a cost of funds index or a moving average of mortgage rates. Indices commonly used for this purpose include the one-year, three-year and five-year constant maturity Treasury rates, the three-month Treasury bill rate, the 180-day Treasury bill rate, rates on longer-term Treasury securities, the 11th District Federal Home Loan Bank Cost of Funds, the National Median Cost of Funds, the one-month, three-month, six-month or one-year SOFR or another rate determined using SOFR, the prime rate of a specific bank, or commercial paper rates. Some indices, such as the one-year constant maturity Treasury rate, closely mirror changes in market interest rate levels. Others, such as the 11th District Federal Home Loan Bank Cost of Funds index, tend to lag behind changes in market rate levels and tend to be somewhat less volatile. The degree of volatility in the market value of ARMs in the Fund's portfolio and, therefore, in the NAV of the Fund's shares, will be a function of the length of the interest rate reset periods and the degree of volatility in the applicable indices.

<u>Fixed-Rate Mortgage Loans</u>. Generally, fixed-rate mortgage loans included in mortgage pools (the "Fixed-Rate Mortgage Loans") will bear simple interest at fixed annual rates and have original terms to maturity ranging from 5 to 40 years. Fixed-Rate Mortgage Loans generally provide for monthly payments of principal and interest in substantially equal installments for the term of the mortgage note in sufficient amounts to fully amortize principal by maturity, although certain Fixed-Rate Mortgage Loans provide for a large final "balloon" payment upon maturity.

<u>Certain Legal Considerations of Mortgage Loans</u>. The following is a discussion of certain legal and regulatory aspects of the mortgage loans in which the Fund may invest. This discussion is not exhaustive, and does not address all of the legal or regulatory aspects affecting mortgage loans. These regulations may impair the ability of a mortgage lender to enforce its rights under the mortgage documents. These regulations may also adversely affect the Fund's investments in Mortgage-Backed Securities (including those issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities) by delaying the Fund's receipt of payments derived from principal or interest on mortgage loans affected by such regulations.

<u>Foreclosure</u>. A foreclosure of a defaulted mortgage loan may be delayed due to compliance with statutory notice or service of process provisions, difficulties in locating necessary parties or legal challenges to the mortgagee's right to foreclose. Depending upon market conditions, the ultimate proceeds of the sale of foreclosed property may not equal the amounts owed on the Mortgage-Backed Securities. Furthermore, courts in some cases have imposed general equitable principles upon foreclosure generally designed to relieve the borrower from the legal effect of default and have required lenders to undertake affirmative and expensive actions to determine the causes for the default and the likelihood of loan reinstatement.

<u>Rights of Redemption</u>. In some states, after foreclosure of a mortgage loan, the borrower and foreclosed junior lienors are given a statutory period in which to redeem the property, which right may diminish the mortgagee's ability to sell the property.

<u>Legislative Limitations</u>. In addition to anti-deficiency and related legislation, numerous other federal and state statutory provisions, including the federal bankruptcy laws and state laws affording relief to debtors, may interfere with or affect the ability of a secured mortgage lender to enforce its security interest. For example, a bankruptcy court may grant the debtor a reasonable time to cure a default on a mortgage loan, including a payment default. The court in certain instances may also reduce the monthly payments due under such mortgage loan, change the rate of interest, reduce the principal balance of the loan to the then-current appraised value of the related mortgaged property, alter the mortgage loan repayment schedule and grant priority of certain liens over the lien of the mortgage loan. If a court relieves a borrower's obligation to repay amounts otherwise due on a mortgage loan, the mortgage loan servicer will not be required to advance such amounts, and any loss may be borne by the holders of securities backed by such loans. In addition, numerous federal and state consumer protection laws impose penalties for failure to comply with specific requirements in connection with origination and servicing of mortgage loans.

"<u>Due-on-Sale</u>" Provisions. Fixed-rate mortgage loans may contain a so-called "due-on-sale" clause permitting acceleration of the maturity of the mortgage loan if the borrower transfers the property. The Garn-St. Germain Depository Institutions Act of 1982 sets forth nine specific instances in which no mortgage lender covered by that Act may exercise a "due-on-sale" clause upon a transfer of property. The inability to enforce a "due-on-sale" clause or the lack of such a clause in mortgage loan documents may result in a mortgage loan being assumed by a purchaser of the property that bears an interest rate below the current market rate.

<u>Usury Laws</u>. Some states prohibit charging interest on mortgage loans in excess of statutory limits. If such limits are exceeded, substantial penalties may be incurred and, in some cases, enforceability of the obligation to pay principal and interest may be affected.

<u>Governmental Action, Legislation and Regulation</u>. Legislative, regulatory and enforcement actions seeking to prevent or restrict foreclosures or providing forbearance relief to borrowers of residential mortgage loans may adversely affect the value of Mortgage-Backed Securities (e.g., the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act). Legislative or regulatory initiatives by federal, state or local legislative bodies or administrative agencies, if enacted or adopted, could delay foreclosure or the exercise of other remedies, provide new defenses to foreclosure, or otherwise impair the ability of the loan servicer to foreclose or realize on a defaulted residential mortgage loan included in a pool of residential mortgage loans backing such residential Mortgage-Backed Securities. While the nature or extent of limitations on foreclosure or exercise of other remedies that may be enacted cannot be predicted, any such governmental actions that interfere with the foreclosure process or are designed to protect customers could increase the costs of such foreclosures or exercise of other remedies in respect of residential mortgage loans which collateralize Mortgage-Backed Securities held by the Fund, delay the timing or reduce the amount of recoveries on defaulted residential mortgage loans which collateralize Mortgage-Backed Securities held by the Fund, and consequently, could adversely impact the yields and distributions the Fund may receive in respect of its ownership of Mortgage-Backed Securities collateralized by residential mortgage loans.

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<u>Government Guaranteed Mortgage-Backed Securities</u>. There are several types of government guaranteed Mortgage-Backed Securities currently available, including guaranteed mortgage pass-through certificates and multiple class securities, which include guaranteed Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit Certificates ("REMIC Certificates"), other collateralized mortgage obligations and stripped Mortgage-Backed Securities. The Fund is permitted to invest in other types of Mortgage-Backed Securities that may be available in the future, to the extent consistent with its investment policies and objective.

The Fund's investments in Mortgage-Backed Securities may include securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or one of its agencies, authorities, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises, such as the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae"), Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Ginnie Mae securities are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, which means that the U.S. Government guarantees that the interest and principal will be paid when due. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac securities are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have the ability to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, and as a result, they have historically been viewed by the market as high quality securities with low credit risks. From time to time, proposals have been introduced before Congress for the purpose of restricting or eliminating federal sponsorship of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The Trust cannot predict what legislation, if any, may be proposed in the future in Congress as regards such sponsorship or which proposals, if any, might be enacted. Such proposals, if enacted, might materially and adversely affect the availability of government guaranteed Mortgage-Backed Securities and the liquidity and value of the Fund's portfolio.

There is risk that the U.S. Government will not provide financial support to its agencies, authorities, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises. The Fund may purchase U.S. Government Securities that are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, such as those issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The maximum potential liability of the issuers of some U.S. Government Securities held by the Fund may greatly exceed such issuers' current resources, including such issuers' legal right to support from the U.S. Treasury. It is possible that these issuers will not have the funds to meet their payment obligations in the future.

Below is a general discussion of certain types of guaranteed Mortgage-Backed Securities in which the Fund may invest.

<u>Ginnie Mae Certificates</u>. Ginnie Mae is a wholly-owned corporate instrumentality of the United States. Ginnie Mae is authorized to guarantee the timely payment of the principal of and interest on certificates that are based on and backed by a pool of mortgage loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration ("FHA"), or guaranteed by the Veterans Administration ("VA"), or by pools of other eligible mortgage loans. In order to meet its obligations under any guaranty, Ginnie Mae is authorized to borrow from the U.S. Treasury in an unlimited amount. The National Housing Act provides that the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government is pledged to the timely payment of principal and interest by Ginnie Mae of amounts due on Ginnie Mae certificates. <u>Fannie Mae Certificates</u>. Fannie Mae is a stockholder-owned corporation chartered under an act of the U.S. Congress. Generally, Fannie Mae Certificates are issued and guaranteed by Fannie Mae and represent an undivided interest in a pool of mortgage loans (a "Pool") formed by Fannie Mae. A Pool consists of residential mortgage loans either previously owned by Fannie Mae or purchased by it in connection with the formation of the Pool. The mortgage loans may be either conventional mortgage loans (i.e., not insured or guaranteed by any U.S. Government agency) or mortgage loans that are either insured by the FHA or guaranteed by the VA. However, the mortgage loans in Fannie Mae Pools are primarily conventional mortgage loans. The lenders originating and servicing the mortgage loans are subject to certain eligibility requirements established by Fannie Mae. Fannie Mae has certain contractual responsibilities. With respect to each Pool, Fannie Mae is obligated to distribute scheduled installments of principal and interest after Fannie Mae's servicing and guaranty fee, whether or not received, to Certificate holders. Fannie Mae also is obligated to distribute to holders of Certificates an amount equal to the full principal balance of any foreclosed mortgage loan, whether or not such principal balance is actually recovered. The obligations of Fannie Mae under its guaranty of the Fannie Mae Certificates are obligations solely of Fannie Mae. See "Certain Additional Information with Respect to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae" below.

<u>Freddie Mac Certificates</u>. Freddie Mac is a publicly held U.S. Government sponsored enterprise. A principal activity of Freddie Mac currently is the purchase of first lien, conventional, residential and multifamily mortgage loans and participation interests in such mortgage loans and their resale in the form of mortgage securities, primarily Freddie Mac Certificates. A Freddie Mac Certificate represents a pro rata interest in a group of mortgage loans or participations in mortgage loans (a "Freddie Mac Certificate group") purchased by Freddie Mac. Freddie Mac guarantees to each registered holder of a Freddie Mac Certificate the timely payment of interest at the rate provided for by such Freddie Mac Certificate (whether or not received on the underlying loans). Freddie Mac also guarantees to each registered Certificate holder ultimate collection of all principal of the related mortgage loans, without any offset or deduction, but does not, generally, guarantee the timely payment of scheduled principal. The obligations of Freddie Mac under its guaranty of Freddie Mac Certificates are obligations solely of Freddie Mac. See "Certain Additional Information with Respect to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae" below.

Under the direction of FHFA (as defined below), Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have entered into a joint initiative to develop a common securitization platform ("CSP") for the issuance of a uniform Mortgage-Backed Security ("UMBS") (the "Single Security Initiative"), which would generally align the characteristics of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Certificates. The Single Security Initiative is intended to maximize liquidity for both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Mortgage-Backed Securities in the "to-be-announced" market. The CSP began issuing UMBS in June 2019. While the initial effects of the issuance of UMBS on the market for mortgage-related securities have been relatively minimal, the long-term effects are still uncertain.

The mortgage loans underlying the Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae Certificates consist of adjustable rate or fixed-rate mortgage loans with original terms to maturity of up to forty years. These mortgage loans are usually secured by first liens on one-to-four-family residential properties or multi-family projects. Each mortgage loan must meet the applicable standards set forth in the law creating Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae. A Freddie Mac Certificate group may include whole loans, participation interests in whole loans, undivided interests in whole loans and participations comprising another Freddie Mac Certificate group.

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<u>Conventional Mortgage Loans</u>. The conventional mortgage loans underlying the Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae Certificates consist of adjustable rate or fixed-rate mortgage loans normally with original terms to maturity of between five and thirty years. Substantially all of these mortgage loans are secured by first liens on one- to four-family residential properties or multi-family projects. Each mortgage loan must meet the applicable standards set forth in the law creating Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae. A Freddie Mac Certificate group may include whole loans, participation interests in whole loans, undivided interests in whole loans and participations comprising another Freddie Mac Certificate group.

<u>Certain Additional Information with Respect to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae</u>. The volatility and disruption that impacted the capital and credit markets during late 2008 and into 2009 have led to increased market concerns about Freddie Mac's and Fannie Mae's ability to withstand future credit losses associated with securities held in their investment portfolios, and on which they provide guarantees, without the direct support of the federal government. On September 6, 2008, both Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae were placed under the conservatorship of the Federal Housing Finance Agency ("FHFA"). Under the plan of conservatorship, the FHFA has assumed control of, and generally has the power to direct, the operations of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, and is empowered to exercise all powers collectively held by their respective shareholders, directors and officers, including the power to (1) take over the assets of and operate Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae with all the powers of the shareholders, the directors, and the officers of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae and conduct all business of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae; (2) collect all obligations and money due to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae; (3) perform all functions of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae which are consistent with the conservator's appointment; (4) preserve and conserve the assets and property of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae; and (5) contract for assistance in fulfilling any function, activity, action or duty of the conservator. In addition, in connection with the actions taken by the FHFA, the Treasury entered into certain preferred stock purchase agreements with each of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae which established the Treasury as the holder of a new class of senior preferred stock in each of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, which stock was issued in connection with financial contributions from the Treasury to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. The conditions attached to the financial contribution made by the Treasury to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae and the issuance of this senior preferred stock placed significant restrictions on the activities of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae must obtain the consent of the Treasury to, among other things, (i) make any payment to purchase or redeem its capital stock or pay any dividend other than in respect of the senior preferred stock issued to the Treasury, (ii) issue capital stock of any kind, (iii) terminate the conservatorship of the FHFA except in connection with a receivership, or (iv) increase its debt beyond certain specified levels. In addition, significant restrictions were placed on the maximum size of each of Freddie Mac's and Fannie Mae's respective portfolios of mortgages and Mortgage-Backed Securities, and the purchase agreements entered into by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae provide that the maximum size of their portfolios of these assets must decrease by a specified percentage each year. On June 16, 2010, FHFA ordered Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's stock de-listed from the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") after the price of common stock in Fannie Mae fell below the NYSE minimum average closing price of $1 for more than 30 days.

The FHFA and the White House have made public statements regarding plans to consider ending the conservatorships of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In the event that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are taken out of conservatorship, it is unclear how the capital structure of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac would be constructed and what effects, if any, there may be on Fannie Mae's and Freddie Mac's creditworthiness and guarantees of certain Mortgage-Backed Securities. It is also unclear whether the Treasury would continue to enforce its rights or perform its obligations under the senior preferred stock programs. Should Fannie Mae's and Freddie Mac's conservatorship end, there could be an adverse impact on the value of their securities, which could cause losses to the Fund.

<u>Privately Issued Mortgage-Backed Securities</u>. The Fund may invest in privately issued Mortgage-Backed Securities. Privately issued Mortgage-Backed Securities are generally backed by pools of conventional (i.e., non-government guaranteed or insured) mortgage loans. The seller or servicer of the underlying mortgage obligations will generally make representations and warranties to certificate-holders as to certain characteristics of the mortgage loans and as to the accuracy of certain information furnished to the trustee in respect of each such mortgage loan. Upon a breach of any representation or warranty that materially and adversely affects the interests of the related certificate-holders in a mortgage loan, the seller or servicer generally will be obligated either to cure the breach in all material respects, to repurchase the mortgage loan or, if the related agreement so provides, to substitute in its place a mortgage loan pursuant to the conditions set forth therein. Such a repurchase or substitution obligation may constitute the sole remedy available to the related certificate-holders or the trustee for the material breach of any such representation or warranty by the seller or servicer.

**Mortgage Pass-Through Securities** 

The Fund may invest in both government guaranteed and privately issued mortgage pass-through securities ("Mortgage Pass-Throughs") that are fixed or adjustable rate Mortgage-Backed Securities which provide for monthly payments that are a "pass-through" of the monthly interest and principal payments (including any prepayments) made by the individual borrowers on the pooled mortgage loans, net of any fees or other amounts paid to any guarantor, administrator and/or servicer of the underlying mortgage loans. The seller or servicer of the underlying mortgage obligations will generally make representations and warranties to certificate-holders as to certain characteristics of the mortgage loans and as to the accuracy of certain information furnished to the trustee in respect of each such mortgage loan. Upon a breach of any representation or warranty that materially and adversely affects the interests of the related certificate-holders in a mortgage loan, the seller or servicer generally may be obligated either to cure the breach in all material respects, to repurchase the mortgage loan or, if the related agreement so provides, to substitute in its place a mortgage loan pursuant to the conditions set forth therein. Such a repurchase or substitution obligation may constitute the sole remedy available to the related certificate-holders or the trustee for the material breach of any such representation or warranty by the seller or servicer. The following discussion describes certain aspects of only a few of the wide variety of structures of Mortgage Pass-Throughs that are available or may be issued.

<u>General Description of Certificates</u>. Mortgage Pass-Throughs may be issued in one or more classes of senior certificates and one or more classes of subordinate certificates. Each such class may bear a different pass-through rate. Generally, each certificate will evidence the specified interest of the holder thereof in the payments of principal or interest or both in respect of the mortgage pool comprising part of the trust fund for such certificates.

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Any class of certificates may also be divided into subclasses entitled to varying amounts of principal and interest. If a REMIC election has been made, certificates of such subclasses may be entitled to payments on the basis of a stated principal balance and stated interest rate, and payments among different subclasses may be made on a sequential, concurrent, pro rata or disproportionate basis, or any combination thereof. The stated interest rate on any such subclass of certificates may be a fixed rate or one which varies in direct or inverse relationship to an objective interest index.

Generally, each registered holder of a certificate will be entitled to receive its pro rata share of monthly distributions of all or a portion of principal of the underlying mortgage loans or of interest on the principal balances thereof, which accrues at the applicable mortgage pass-through rate, or both. The difference between the mortgage interest rate and the related mortgage pass-through rate (less the amount, if any, of retained yield) with respect to each mortgage loan will generally be paid to the servicer as a servicing fee. Because certain adjustable rate mortgage loans included in a mortgage pool may provide for deferred interest (i.e., negative amortization), the amount of interest actually paid by a mortgagor in any month may be less than the amount of interest accrued on the outstanding principal balance of the related mortgage loan during the relevant period at the applicable mortgage interest rate. In such event, the amount of interest that is treated as deferred interest will generally be added to the principal balance of the related mortgage loan and will be distributed pro rata to certificate-holders as principal of such mortgage loan when paid by the mortgagor in subsequent monthly payments or at maturity.

<u>Ratings</u>. The ratings assigned by a rating organization to Mortgage Pass-Throughs generally address the likelihood of the receipt of distributions on the underlying mortgage loans by the related certificate-holders under the agreements pursuant to which such certificates are issued. A rating organization's ratings normally take into consideration the credit quality of the related mortgage pool, including any credit support providers, structural and legal aspects associated with such certificates, and the extent to which the payment stream on such mortgage pool is adequate to make payments required by such certificates. A rating organization's ratings on such certificates do not, however, constitute a statement regarding frequency of prepayments on the related mortgage loans. In addition, the rating assigned by a rating organization to a certificate may not address the possibility that, in the event of the insolvency of the issuer of certificates where a subordinated interest was retained, the issuance and sale of the senior certificates may be recharacterized as a financing and, as a result of such recharacterization, payments on such certificates may be affected. A rating organization may downgrade or withdraw a rating assigned by it to any Mortgage Pass-Through at any time, and no assurance can be made that any ratings on any Mortgage Pass-Throughs included in the Fund will be maintained, or that if such ratings are assigned, they will not be downgraded or withdrawn by the assigning rating organization.

In the past, rating agencies have placed on credit watch or downgraded the ratings previously assigned to a large number of mortgage-backed securities (which may include certain of the Mortgage-Backed Securities in which the Fund may have invested or may in the future be invested), and may continue to do so in the future. In the event that any Mortgage-Backed Security held by the Fund is placed on credit watch or downgraded, the value of such Mortgage-Backed Security may decline and the Fund may consequently experience losses in respect of such Mortgage-Backed Security.

<u>Subordination; Shifting of Interest; Reserve Fund</u>. In order to achieve ratings on one or more classes of Mortgage Pass-Throughs, one or more classes of certificates may be subordinate certificates which provide that the rights of the subordinate certificate-holders to receive any or a specified portion of distributions with respect to the underlying mortgage loans may be subordinated to the rights of the senior certificate holders. If so structured, the subordination feature may be enhanced by distributing to the senior certificate-holders on certain distribution dates, as payment of principal, a specified percentage (which generally declines over time) of all principal payments received during the preceding prepayment period ("shifting interest credit enhancement"). This will have the effect of accelerating the amortization of the senior certificates while increasing the interest in the trust fund evidenced by the subordinate certificates. Increasing the interest of the subordinate certificates relative to that of the senior certificates is intended to preserve the availability of the subordination provided by the subordinate certificates. In addition, because the senior certificate-holders in a shifting interest credit enhancement structure are entitled to receive a percentage of principal prepayments which is greater than their proportionate interest in the trust fund, the rate of principal prepayments on the mortgage loans may have an even greater effect on the rate of principal payments and the amount of interest payments on, and the yield to maturity of, the senior certificates.

In addition to providing for a preferential right of the senior certificate-holders to receive current distributions from the mortgage pool, a reserve fund may be established relating to such certificates (the "Reserve Fund"). The Reserve Fund may be created with an initial cash deposit by the originator or servicer and augmented by the retention of distributions otherwise available to the subordinate certificate-holders or by excess servicing fees until the Reserve Fund reaches a specified amount.

The subordination feature, and any Reserve Fund, are intended to enhance the likelihood of timely receipt by senior certificate-holders of the full amount of scheduled monthly payments of principal and interest due to them and will protect the senior certificate-holders against certain losses; however, in certain circumstances the Reserve Fund could be depleted and temporary shortfalls could result. In the event that the Reserve Fund is depleted before the subordinated amount is reduced to zero, senior certificate-holders will nevertheless have a preferential right to receive

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current distributions from the mortgage pool to the extent of the then outstanding subordinated amount. Unless otherwise specified, until the subordinated amount is reduced to zero, on any distribution date any amount otherwise distributable to the subordinate certificates or, to the extent specified, in the Reserve Fund will generally be used to offset the amount of any losses realized with respect to the mortgage loans ("Realized Losses"). Realized Losses remaining after application of such amounts will generally be applied to reduce the ownership interest of the subordinate certificates in the mortgage pool. If the subordinated amount has been reduced to zero, Realized Losses generally will be allocated pro rata among all certificate-holders in proportion to their respective outstanding interests in the mortgage pool.

<u>Alternative Credit Enhancement</u>. As an alternative, or in addition to the credit enhancement afforded by subordination, credit enhancement for Mortgage Pass-Throughs may be provided through bond insurers, or at the mortgage loan-level through mortgage insurance, hazard insurance, or through the deposit of cash, certificates of deposit, letters of credit, a limited guaranty or by such other methods as are acceptable to a rating agency. In certain circumstances, such as where credit enhancement is provided by bond insurers, guarantees or letters of credit, the security is subject to credit risk because of its exposure to the credit risk of an external credit enhancement provider.

<u>Voluntary Advances</u>. Generally, in the event of delinquencies in payments on the mortgage loans underlying the Mortgage Pass-Throughs, the servicer may agree to make advances of cash for the benefit of certificate-holders, but generally will do so only to the extent that it determines such voluntary advances will be recoverable from future payments and collections on the mortgage loans or otherwise.

<u>Optional Termination</u>. Generally, the servicer may, at its option with respect to any certificates, repurchase all of the underlying mortgage loans remaining outstanding at such time if the aggregate outstanding principal balance of such mortgage loans is less than a specified percentage (generally 5-10%) of the aggregate outstanding principal balance of the mortgage loans as of the cut-off date specified with respect to such series.

<u>Multiple Class</u> <u>Mortgage-Backed Securities and Collateralized Mortgage Obligations</u>. The Fund may invest in multiple class securities including collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and REMIC Certificates. These securities may be issued by U.S. Government agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises such as Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac or by trusts formed by private originators of, or investors in, mortgage loans, including savings and loan associations, mortgage bankers, commercial banks, insurance companies, investment banks and special purpose subsidiaries of the foregoing. In general, CMOs are debt obligations of a legal entity that are collateralized by, and multiple class Mortgage-Backed Securities represent direct ownership interests in, a pool of mortgage loans or Mortgage-Backed Securities the payments on which are used to make payments on the CMOs or multiple class Mortgage-Backed Securities.

Fannie Mae REMIC Certificates are issued and guaranteed as to timely distribution of principal and interest by Fannie Mae. In addition, Fannie Mae will be obligated to distribute the principal balance of each class of REMIC Certificates in full, whether or not sufficient funds are otherwise available.

Freddie Mac guarantees the timely payment of interest on Freddie Mac REMIC Certificates and also guarantees the payment of principal as payments are required to be made on the underlying mortgage participation certificates ("PCs"). PCs represent undivided interests in specified level payment, residential mortgages or participations therein purchased by Freddie Mac and placed in a PC pool. With respect to principal payments on PCs, Freddie Mac generally guarantees ultimate collection of all principal of the related mortgage loans without offset or deduction but the receipt of the required payments may be delayed. Freddie Mac also guarantees timely payment of principal of certain PCs.

CMOs and guaranteed REMIC Certificates issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are types of multiple class Mortgage-Backed Securities. The REMIC Certificates represent beneficial ownership interests in a REMIC trust, generally consisting of mortgage loans or Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or Ginnie Mae guaranteed Mortgage-Backed Securities (the "Mortgage Assets"). The obligations of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac under their respective guaranty of the REMIC Certificates are obligations solely of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, respectively. See "Certain Additional Information with Respect to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae."

CMOs and REMIC Certificates are issued in multiple classes. Each class of CMOs or REMIC Certificates, often referred to as a "tranche," is issued at a specific adjustable or fixed interest rate and must be fully retired no later than its final distribution date. Principal prepayments on the mortgage loans or the Mortgage Assets underlying the CMOs or REMIC Certificates may cause some or all of the classes of CMOs or REMIC Certificates to be retired substantially earlier than their final distribution dates. Generally, interest is paid or accrues on all classes of CMOs or REMIC Certificates on a monthly basis.

The principal of and interest on the Mortgage Assets may be allocated among the several classes of CMOs or REMIC Certificates in various ways. In certain structures (known as "sequential pay" CMOs or REMIC Certificates), payments of principal, including any principal prepayments, on the Mortgage Assets generally are applied to the classes of CMOs or REMIC Certificates in the order of their respective final distribution dates. Thus, no payment of principal will be made on any class of sequential pay CMOs or REMIC Certificates until all other classes having an earlier final distribution date have been paid in full.

Additional structures of CMOs and REMIC Certificates include, among others, "parallel pay" CMOs and REMIC Certificates.

Parallel pay CMOs or REMIC Certificates are those which are structured to apply principal payments and prepayments of the Mortgage Assets to two or more classes concurrently on a proportionate or disproportionate basis. These simultaneous payments are taken into account in calculating the final distribution date of each class.

A wide variety of REMIC Certificates may be issued in parallel pay or sequential pay structures. These securities include accrual certificates (also known as "Z-Bonds"), which only accrue interest at a specified rate until all other certificates having an earlier final distribution date have been retired and are converted thereafter to an interest-paying security, and planned amortization class ("PAC") certificates, which are parallel pay REMIC Certificates that generally require that specified amounts of principal be applied on each payment date to one or more classes or

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REMIC Certificates (the "PAC Certificates"), even though all other principal payments and prepayments of the Mortgage Assets are then required to be applied to one or more other classes of the PAC Certificates. The scheduled principal payments for the PAC Certificates generally have the highest priority on each payment date after interest due has been paid to all classes entitled to receive interest currently. Shortfalls, if any, are added to the amount payable on the next payment date. The PAC Certificate payment schedule is taken into account in calculating the final distribution date of each class of PAC. In order to create PAC tranches, one or more tranches generally must be created that absorb most of the volatility in the underlying mortgage assets. These tranches tend to have market prices and yields that are much more volatile than other PAC classes.

<u>Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities</u>. Commercial mortgage-backed securities ("CMBS") are a type of Mortgage Pass-Through that are primarily backed by a pool of commercial mortgage loans. The commercial mortgage loans are, in turn, generally secured by commercial mortgaged properties (such as office properties, retail properties, hospitality properties, industrial properties, healthcare related properties or other types of income producing real property). CMBS generally entitle the holders thereof to receive payments that depend primarily on the cash flow from a specified pool of commercial or multifamily mortgage loans. CMBS will be affected by payments, defaults, delinquencies and losses on the underlying mortgage loans. The underlying mortgage loans generally are secured by income producing properties such as office properties, retail properties, multifamily properties, manufactured housing, hospitality properties, industrial properties and self-storage properties. Because issuers of CMBS have no significant assets other than the underlying commercial real estate loans and because of the significant credit risks inherent in the underlying collateral, credit risk is a correspondingly important consideration with respect to the related CMBS. Certain of the mortgage loans underlying CMBS constituting part of the collateral interests may be delinquent, in default or in foreclosure.

Commercial real estate lending may expose a lender (and the related Mortgage-Backed Security) to a greater risk of loss than certain other forms of lending because it typically involves making larger loans to single borrowers or groups of related borrowers. In addition, in the case of certain commercial mortgage loans, repayment of loans secured by commercial and multifamily properties depends upon the ability of the related real estate project to generate income sufficient to pay debt service, operating expenses and leasing commissions and to make necessary repairs, tenant improvements and capital improvements, and in the case of loans that do not fully amortize over their terms, to retain sufficient value to permit the borrower to pay off the loan at maturity through a sale or refinancing of the mortgaged property. The net operating income from and value of any commercial property is subject to various risks, including changes in general or local economic conditions and/or specific industry segments; declines in real estate values; declines in rental or occupancy rates; increases in interest rates, real estate tax rates and other operating expenses; changes in governmental rules, regulations and fiscal policies; acts of God; terrorist threats and attacks and social unrest and civil disturbances. In addition, certain of the mortgaged properties securing the pools of commercial mortgage loans underlying CMBS may have a higher degree of geographic concentration in a few states or regions. The values of, and income generated by, CMBS may be adversely affected by changing interest rates and other developments impacting the commercial real estate market, such as population shifts and other demographic changes, increasing vacancies (potentially for extended periods) and reduced demand for commercial and office space as well as maintenance or tenant improvement costs and costs to convert properties for other uses. These developments could result from, among other things, changing tastes and preferences (such as for remote work arrangements) as well as cultural, technological, global or local economic and market developments. In addition, changing interest rate environments and associated changes in lending standards and higher refinancing rates may adversely affect the commercial real estate and CMBS markets. The occurrence of any of the foregoing developments would likely increase default risk for the properties and loans underlying these investments as well as impact the value of, and income generated by, these investments. Furthermore, any deterioration in the real estate market or economy or adverse events in such states or regions, may increase the rate of delinquency and default experience (and as a consequence, losses) with respect to mortgage loans related to properties in such state or region. Pools of mortgaged properties securing the commercial mortgage loans underlying CMBS may also have a higher degree of concentration in certain types of commercial properties. Accordingly, such pools of mortgage loans represent higher exposure to risks particular to those types of commercial properties. Certain pools of commercial mortgage loans underlying CMBS consist of a fewer number of mortgage loans with outstanding balances that are larger than average. If a mortgage pool includes mortgage loans with larger than average balances, any realized losses on such mortgage loans could be more severe, relative to the size of the pool, than would be the case if the aggregate balance of the pool were distributed among a larger number of mortgage loans. Certain borrowers or affiliates thereof relating to certain of the commercial mortgage loans underlying CMBS may have had a history of bankruptcy. Certain mortgaged properties securing the commercial mortgage loans underlying CMBS may have been exposed to environmental conditions or circumstances. The ratings in respect of certain of the CMBS comprising the Mortgage-Backed Securities may have been withdrawn, reduced or placed on credit watch since issuance. In addition, losses and/or appraisal reductions may be allocated to certain of such CMBS and certain of the collateral or the assets underlying such collateral may be delinquent and/or may default from time to time. These developments could also result in reduced liquidity for CMBS and other real estate-related investments.

CMBS held by the Fund may be subordinated to one or more other classes of securities of the same series for purposes of, among other things, establishing payment priorities and offsetting losses and other shortfalls with respect to the related underlying mortgage loans. Realized losses in respect of the mortgage loans included in the CMBS pool and trust expenses generally will be allocated to the most subordinated class of securities of the related series. Accordingly, to the extent any CMBS is or becomes the most subordinated class of securities of the related series, any delinquency or default on any underlying mortgage loan may result in shortfalls, realized loss allocations or extensions of its weighted average life and will have a more immediate and disproportionate effect on the related CMBS than on a related more senior class of CMBS of the same series. Further, even if a class is not the most subordinate class of securities, there can be no assurance that the subordination offered to such class will be sufficient on any date to offset all losses or expenses incurred by the underlying trust. CMBS are typically not guaranteed or insured, and distributions on such CMBS generally will depend solely upon the amount and timing of payments and other collections on the related underlying commercial mortgage loans.

<u>Stripped Mortgage-Backed Securities</u>. The Fund may invest in stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"), which are derivative multiclass mortgage securities, issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities or non-governmental originators. SMBS are usually structured with two different classes: one that receives substantially all of the interest payments (the interest-only, or "IO" and/or the high coupon rate with relatively low principal amount, or "IOette"), and the other that receives substantially all of the principal payments (the principal-only, or "PO"), from a pool of mortgage loans.

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Certain SMBS may not be readily marketable. The market value of POs generally is unusually volatile in response to changes in interest rates. The yields on IOs and IOettes are generally higher than prevailing market yields on other Mortgage-Backed Securities because their cash flow patterns are more volatile and there is a greater risk that the initial investment will not be fully recouped. The Fund's investments in SMBS may require the Fund to sell certain of its portfolio securities to generate sufficient cash to satisfy certain income distribution requirements. These and other factors discussed in the section above, titled "Illiquid Investments," may impact the liquidity of investments in SMBS.

**Non-Diversified Status** 

Because the Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF and Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF are each "non-diversified" under the Act, each Fund is subject only to certain federal tax diversification requirements.

Pursuant to such requirements, each Fund must diversify its holdings so that, in general, at the close of each quarter of its taxable year, (a) at least 50% of the fair market value of the Fund's total (gross) assets is comprised of cash, cash items, U.S. Government Securities and, securities of other regulated investment companies. and other securities limited in respect of any one issuer to an amount not greater in value than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets and to not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and

(b) not more than 25% of the value of each Fund's total (gross) assets is invested in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government Securities and securities of other regulated investment companies), two or more issuers controlled by the Fund and engaged in the same, similar or related trades or businesses, or certain publicly traded partnerships.

**Options on Securities, Securities Indices and Foreign Currencies** 

<u>Writing and Purchasing Call and Put Options on Securities and Securities Indices</u>. The Fund may write (sell) call and put options on any securities in which it may invest or any securities index consisting of securities in which it may invest. The Fund may write such options on securities that are listed on national domestic securities exchanges or foreign securities exchanges or traded in the over-the-counter market. A call option written by the Fund obligates the Fund to sell specified securities to the holder of the option at a specified price if the option is exercised on or before the expiration date. Depending upon the type of call option, the purchaser of a call option either (i) has the right to any appreciation in the value of the security over a fixed price (the "exercise price") on a certain date in the future (the "expiration date") or (ii) has the right to any appreciation in the value of the security over the exercise price at any time prior to the expiration of the option.

If the purchaser exercises the option, the Fund pays the purchaser the difference between the price of the security and the exercise price of the option. The premium, the exercise price and the market value of the security determine the gain or loss realized by the Fund as the seller of the call option. The Fund can also repurchase the call option prior to the expiration date, ending its obligation. In this case, the cost of entering into closing purchase transactions will determine the gain or loss realized by the Fund. The Fund's purpose in writing call options is to realize greater income than would be realized on portfolio securities transactions alone. However, the Fund may forego the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market price of the underlying security.

A put option written by the Fund obligates the Fund to purchase specified securities from the option holder at a specified price if the option is exercised on or before the expiration date.

The purpose of writing such options is to generate additional income for the Fund. However, in return for the option premium, the Fund accepts the risk that it may be required to purchase the underlying securities at a price in excess of the securities' market value at the time of purchase.

The Fund may also write (sell) call and put options on any securities index consisting of securities in which it may invest. Options on securities indices are similar to options on securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash settlement payments and does not involve the actual purchase or sale of securities. In addition, securities index options are designed to reflect price fluctuations in a group of securities or segment of the securities market rather than price fluctuations in a single security.

The Fund may terminate its obligations under an exchange-traded call or put option by purchasing an option identical to the one it has written. Obligations under over-the-counter options may be terminated only by entering into an offsetting transaction with the counterparty to such option. Such purchases are referred to as "closing purchase transactions."

The Fund may also purchase put and call options on any securities in which it may invest or any securities index consisting of securities in which it may invest. In addition, the Fund may enter into closing sale transactions in order to realize gains or minimize losses on options it had purchased.

The Fund may purchase call options in anticipation of an increase, or put options in anticipation of a decrease ("protective puts"), in the market value of securities or other instruments of the type in which it may invest. The purchase of a call option would entitle the Fund, in return for the premium paid, to purchase specified securities or other instruments at a specified price during the option period. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain on the purchase of a call option if, during the option period, the value of such securities exceeded the sum of the exercise price, the premium paid and transaction costs; otherwise the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the call option. The purchase of a put option would entitle the Fund, in exchange for the premium paid, to sell specified securities or other instruments at a specified price during the option period. The purchase of protective puts is designed to offset or hedge against a decline in the market value of the Fund's securities or other instruments. Put options may also be purchased by the Fund for the purpose of affirmatively benefiting from a decline in the price of securities or other instruments which it does not own. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying securities or other instruments decreased below the exercise price sufficiently to cover the premium and transaction costs; otherwise the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the put option. Gains and losses on the purchase of put options may be offset by countervailing changes in the value of the underlying portfolio securities or other instruments.

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The purchase of a put option would entitle the Fund, in exchange for the premium paid, to sell specified securities or other instruments at a specified price during the option period. The purchase of protective puts is designed to offset or hedge against a decline in the market value of the Fund's securities or other instruments. Put options may also be purchased by the Fund for the purpose of affirmatively benefiting from a decline in the price of securities or other instruments which it does not own. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying securities or other instruments decreased below the exercise price sufficiently to cover the premium and transaction costs; otherwise the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the put option. Gains and losses on the purchase of put options may be offset by countervailing changes in the value of the underlying portfolio securities or other instruments.

The Fund may purchase put and call options on securities indices for the same purposes as it may purchase options on securities. Options on securities indices are similar to options on securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash payments and does not involve the actual purchase or sale of securities. In addition, securities index options are designed to reflect price fluctuations in a group of securities or segment of the securities market rather than price fluctuations in a single security.

<u>Writing and Purchasing Call and Put Options on Currency</u>. The Fund may write put and call options and purchase put and call options on foreign currencies in an attempt to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar value of foreign portfolio securities and against increases in the U.S. dollar cost of foreign securities to be acquired. The Fund may also use options on currency to cross-hedge, which involves writing or purchasing options on one currency to seek to hedge against changes in exchange rates for a different currency with a pattern of correlation. As with other kinds of option transactions, however, the writing of an option on foreign currency will constitute only a partial hedge, up to the amount of the premium received. If an option that the Fund has written is exercised, the Fund could be required to purchase or sell foreign currencies at disadvantageous exchange rates, thereby incurring losses. The purchase of an option on foreign currency may constitute an effective hedge against exchange rate fluctuations; however, in the event of exchange rate movements adverse to the Fund's position, the Fund may forfeit the entire amount of the premium plus related transaction costs. Options on foreign currencies may be traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. In addition, the Fund may purchase call options on currency to seek to increase total return.

A currency call option written by the Fund obligates the Fund to sell specified currency to the holder of the option at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. A currency put option written by the Fund obligates the Fund to purchase specified currency from the option holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. The writing of currency options involves a risk that the Fund will, upon exercise of the option, be required to sell currency subject to a call at a price that is less than the currency's market value or be required to purchase currency subject to a put at a price that exceeds the currency's market value.

The Fund may terminate its obligations under a written call or put option by purchasing an option identical to the one written. Such purchases are referred to as "closing purchase transactions." The Fund may enter into closing sale transactions in order to realize gains or minimize losses on purchased options.

The Fund may purchase call options on foreign currency in anticipation of an increase in the U.S. dollar value of currency in which securities to be acquired by the Fund are denominated or quoted. The purchase of a call option would entitle the Fund, in return for the premium paid, to purchase specified currency at a specified price during the option period. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of such currency exceeded the sum of the exercise price, the premium paid and transaction costs; otherwise, the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the call option.

The Fund may purchase put options in anticipation of a decline in the U.S. dollar value of currency in which securities in its portfolio are denominated or quoted ("protective puts"). The purchase of a put option would entitle the Fund, in exchange for the premium paid, to sell specified currency at a specified price during the option period. The purchase of protective puts is usually designed to offset or hedge against a decline in the U.S. dollar value of the Fund's portfolio securities due to currency exchange rate fluctuations. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying currency decreased below the exercise price sufficiently to more than cover the premium and transaction costs; otherwise, the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the put option. Gains and losses on the purchase of protective put options would tend to be offset by countervailing changes in the value of the underlying currency.

In addition to using options for the hedging purposes described above, the Fund may use options on currency to seek to increase total return. The Fund may write (sell) put and call options on any currency in an attempt to realize greater income than would be realized on portfolio securities transactions alone. However, in writing call options for additional income, the Fund may forego the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market value of the underlying currency. Also, when writing put options, the Fund accepts, in return for the option premium, the risk that it may be required to purchase the underlying currency at a price in excess of the currency's market value at the time of purchase.

The Fund may purchase call options to seek to increase total return in anticipation of an increase in the market value of a currency. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of such currency exceeded the sum of the exercise price, the premium paid and transaction costs. Otherwise the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the call option. Put options may be purchased by the Fund for the purpose of benefiting from a decline in the value of currencies which it does not own. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying currency decreased below the exercise price sufficiently to more than cover the premium and transaction costs. Otherwise, the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the put option.

<u>Special Risks Associated with Options on Currency</u>. An exchange-traded option position may be closed out only on an options exchange that provides a secondary market for an option of the same series. Although the Fund will generally purchase or write only those options for which there appears to be an active secondary market, there is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on an exchange will exist for any particular

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option or at any particular time. For some options no secondary market on an exchange may exist. In such event, it might not be possible to effect closing transactions in particular options, with the result that the Fund would have to exercise its options in order to realize any profit and would incur transaction costs upon the sale of underlying securities pursuant to the exercise of its options. If the Fund as an option writer is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction in a secondary market, it must sell the underlying currency (or security quoted or denominated in that currency) to the purchaser of the option if the option is exercised.

There is no assurance that higher-than-anticipated trading activity or other unforeseen events might not, at times, render certain of the facilities of the relevant clearinghouse inadequate, and thereby result in the institution by an exchange of special procedures which may interfere with the timely execution of customers' orders.

The Fund may purchase and write over-the-counter options. Trading in over-the-counter options is subject to the risk that the other party will be unable or unwilling to close out options purchased or written by the Fund.

The amount of the premiums that the Fund may pay or receive, may be adversely affected as new or existing institutions, including other investment companies, engage in or increase their option purchasing and writing activities.

<u>Yield Curve Options</u>. The Fund may enter into options on the yield "spread" or differential between two securities. Such transactions are referred to as "yield curve" options. In contrast to other types of options, a yield curve option is based on the difference between the yields of designated securities, rather than the prices of the individual securities, and is settled through cash payments. Accordingly, a yield curve option is profitable to the holder if this differential widens (in the case of a call) or narrows (in the case of a put), regardless of whether the yields of the underlying securities increase or decrease.

The Fund may purchase or write yield curve options for the same purposes as other options on securities. For example, the Fund may purchase a call option on the yield spread between two securities if the Fund owns one of the securities and anticipates purchasing the other security and wants to hedge against an adverse change in the yield spread between the two securities. The Fund may also purchase or write yield curve options in an effort to increase current income if, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, the Fund will be able to profit from movements in the spread between the yields of the underlying securities. The trading of yield curve options is subject to all of the risks associated with the trading of other types of options. In addition, however, such options present a risk of loss even if the yield of one of the underlying securities remains constant, or if the spread moves in a direction or to an extent which was not anticipated.

Yield curve options are traded over-the-counter, and established trading markets for these options may not exist.

<u>Risks Associated with Options Transactions</u>. There is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on a domestic or foreign options exchange will exist for any particular exchange-traded option or at any particular time. If the Fund is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to covered options it has written, the Fund must sell the underlying securities to the purchasers of the options if the options are exercised. Similarly, if the Fund is unable to effect a closing sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased, it will have to exercise the options in order to realize any profit and will incur transaction costs upon the purchase or sale of underlying securities.

Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include, but are not limited to, the following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain options; (ii) restrictions may be imposed by an exchange on opening or closing transactions or both;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or series of options; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or the Options Clearing Corporation may not at all times be adequate to handle current trading volume; or (vi) one or more exchanges could, for economic or other reasons, decide or be compelled at some future date to discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options), in which event the secondary market on that exchange (or in that class or series of options) would cease to exist although outstanding options on that exchange that had been issued by the Options Clearing Corporation as a result of trades on that exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.

There can be no assurance that higher trading activity, order flow or other unforeseen events will not, at times, render certain of the facilities of the Options Clearing Corporation or various exchanges inadequate. Such events have, in the past, resulted in the institution by an exchange of special procedures, such as trading rotations, restrictions on certain types of order or trading halts or suspensions with respect to one or more options. These special procedures may limit liquidity.

The Fund may purchase and sell both options that are traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges and options traded over-the-counter with broker-dealers and other types of institutions that make markets in these options. The ability to terminate over-the-counter options is more limited than with exchange-traded options and may involve the risk that the broker-dealers or financial institutions participating in such transactions will not fulfill their obligations.

Transactions by the Fund in options will be subject to limitations established by each of the exchanges, boards of trade or other trading facilities on which such options are traded governing the maximum number of options in each class which may be written or purchased by a single investor or group of investors acting in concert regardless of whether the options are written or purchased on the same or different exchanges, boards of trade or other trading facilities or are held in one or more accounts or through one or more brokers. Thus, the number of options which the Fund may write or purchase may be affected by options written or purchased by other investment advisory clients of the Investment Adviser. An exchange, board of trade or other trading facility may order the liquidation of positions found to be in excess of these limits, and it may impose certain other sanctions.

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The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The use of options to seek to increase total return involves the risk of loss if the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of fluctuations in securities prices or interest rates. The successful use of options for hedging purposes also depends in part on the ability of the Investment Adviser to manage future price fluctuations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities (or currency) markets. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of changes in securities prices or determination of the correlation between the securities or securities indices on which options are written and purchased and the securities in the Fund's investment portfolio, the Fund may incur losses that it would not otherwise incur. The writing of options could increase the Fund's portfolio turnover rate and, therefore, associated brokerage commissions or spreads.

**Pooled Investment Vehicles** 

The Fund may invest in securities of pooled investment vehicles including ETFs. The Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by pooled investment vehicles in which it invests, in addition to the management fees (and other expenses) of the Fund. The Fund's investments in pooled investment vehicles are subject to statutory limitations prescribed by the Act, including in certain circumstances a prohibition on the Fund acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any other investment company, and a prohibition on investing more than 5% of the Fund's total assets in securities of any one investment company or more than 10% of its total assets in the securities of all investment companies.

Subject to applicable law and/or pursuant to an exemptive rule adopted by the SEC or an exemptive order obtained from the SEC, the Fund may invest in other investment companies, including ETFs and money market funds, beyond the statutory limits described above or otherwise provided that certain conditions are met. Some of those other investment companies may be funds for which the Investment Adviser, or any of its affiliates, serve as investment adviser, administrator and/or distributor. Although the Fund does not expect to do so in the foreseeable future, the Fund is authorized to invest substantially all of its assets in a single open-end investment company or series thereof that has substantially the same investment objective policies and fundamental restrictions as the Fund. Additionally, if the Fund serves as an "acquired fund" of another Goldman Sachs Fund or unaffiliated investment company, the Fund's ability to invest in other investment companies and private funds may be limited and, under these circumstances, the Fund's investments in other investment companies and private funds will be consistent with applicable law and/or exemptive rules adopted by or exemptive orders obtained from the SEC. For example, to the extent the Fund serves as an acquired fund in a fund of funds arrangement in reliance on Rule 12d1-4 under the Act, the Fund would be prohibited from purchasing or otherwise acquiring the securities of an investment company or private fund if, after such purchase or acquisition, the aggregate value of the Fund's investments in such investment companies and private funds would exceed 10% of the value of the Fund's total assets, subject to limited exceptions (including for investments in money market funds).

ETFs are shares of pooled investment vehicles issuing shares which are traded like traditional equity securities on a stock exchange. An ETF generally represents a portfolio of securities or other assets, which is often designed to track a particular market segment or index. An investment in an ETF, like one in any pooled investment vehicle, carries risks of its underlying securities. An ETF may fail to accurately track the returns of the market segment or index that it is designed to track, and the price of an ETF's shares may fluctuate or lose money. In addition, because they, unlike other pooled investment vehicles, are traded on an exchange, ETFs are subject to the following risks: (i) the market price of the ETF's shares may trade at a premium or discount to the ETF's NAV; (ii) an active trading market for an ETF may not develop or be maintained; and (iii) there is no assurance that the requirements of the exchange necessary to maintain the listing of the ETF will continue to be met or remain unchanged. In the event substantial market or other disruptions affecting ETFs should occur in the future, the liquidity and value of the Fund's shares could also be substantially and adversely affected.

**Portfolio Turnover** 

The Fund may engage in active short-term trading to benefit from price disparities among different issues of securities or among the markets for equity or fixed-income securities, or for other reasons. As a result of active management, it is anticipated that the portfolio turnover rate of the Fund may vary greatly from year to year as well as within a particular year, and may be affected by changes in the holdings of specific issuers, changes in country and currency weightings, cash requirements for redemption of shares and by requirements which enable the Fund to receive favorable tax treatment. The Fund is not restricted by policy with regard to portfolio turnover and will make changes in their investment portfolio from time to time as business and economic conditions as well as market prices may dictate.

**Preferred Stock, Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights** 

The Fund may invest in warrants and stock purchase rights ("rights") (in addition to those acquired in units or attached to other securities). Preferred stocks are securities that represent an ownership interest providing the holder with claims on the issuer's earnings and assets before common stock owners but after bond owners. Unlike debt securities, the obligations of an issuer of preferred stock, including dividend and other payment obligations, may not typically be accelerated by the holders of such preferred stock on the occurrence of an event of default (such as a covenant default or filing of a bankruptcy petition) or other non-compliance by the issuer with the terms of the preferred stock. Often, however, on the occurrence of any such event of default or non-compliance by the issuer, preferred stockholders will be entitled to gain representation on the issuer's board of directors or increase their existing board representation. In addition, preferred stockholders may be granted voting rights with respect to certain issues on the occurrence of any event of default.

Warrants and other rights are options to buy a stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price at any time during the life of the warrant. The holders of warrants and rights have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer.

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**Private Investments in Public Equity** 

The Fund may purchase equity securities in a private placement that are issued by issuers who have outstanding, publicly-traded equity securities of the same class ("private investments in public equity" or "PIPEs"). Shares in PIPEs generally are not registered with the SEC until after a certain time period from the date the private sale is completed. This restricted period can last many months. Until the public registration process is completed, PIPEs are restricted as to resale and the Funds cannot freely trade the securities. Generally such restrictions cause the PIPEs to be illiquid during this time. PIPEs may contain provisions that the issuer will pay specified financial penalties to the holder if the issuer does not publicly register the restricted equity securities within a specified period of time, but there is no assurance that the restricted equity securities will be publicly registered, or that the registration will remain in effect.

**Real Estate Investment Trusts** 

The Fund may invest in shares of real estate investment trusts ("REITs"). REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in real estate or real estate related loans. REITs are generally classified as equity REITs, mortgage REITs or a combination of equity and mortgage REITs. Equity REITs invest the majority of their assets directly in real property and derive income primarily from the collection of rents. Equity REITs can also realize capital gains by selling properties that have appreciated in value. Mortgage REITs invest the majority of their assets in real estate mortgages and derive income from the collection of interest payments. Like regulated investment companies such as the Fund, REITs are not taxed on income distributed to shareholders provided they comply with certain requirements under the Code. The Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by REITs in which it invests in addition to the expenses paid by the Fund.

Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks. Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by such REITs, while mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of any credit extended. REITs are dependent upon management skills, are not diversified (except to the extent the Code requires), and are subject to the risks of financing projects. REITs are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the possibilities of failing to qualify for the exemption from tax for distributed income under the Code and failing to maintain their exemptions from the Act. REITs (especially mortgage REITs) are also subject to interest rate risks.

**Repurchase Agreements** 

The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with counterparties that furnish collateral at least equal in value or market price to the amount of the repurchase obligation. The Fund may also enter into repurchase agreements involving obligations other than U.S. Government Securities, which may be subject to additional risks. A repurchase agreement is an arrangement under which the Fund purchases securities and the seller agrees to repurchase the securities within a particular time and at a specified price. Custody of the securities is maintained by the Fund's custodian (or subcustodian). The repurchase price may be higher than the purchase price, the difference being income to the Fund, or the purchase and repurchase prices may be the same, with interest at a stated rate due to the Fund together with the repurchase price on repurchase. In either case, the income to the Fund is unrelated to the interest rate on the security subject to the repurchase agreement.

For purposes of the Act and generally for tax purposes, a repurchase agreement is deemed to be a loan from the Fund to the seller of the security. For other purposes, it is not always clear whether a court would consider the security purchased by the Fund subject to a repurchase agreement as being owned by the Fund or as being collateral for a loan by the Fund to the seller. In the event of commencement of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings with respect to the seller of the security before repurchase of the security under a repurchase agreement, the Fund may encounter delay and incur costs before being able to sell the security. Such a delay may involve loss of interest or a decline in value of the security. If the court characterizes the transaction as a loan and the Fund has not perfected a security interest in the security, the Fund may be required to return the security to the seller's estate and be treated as an unsecured creditor of the seller. As an unsecured creditor, the Fund would be at risk of losing some or all of the principal and interest involved in the transaction.

Apart from the risk of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, there is also the risk that the seller may fail to repurchase the security. However, if the market value of the security subject to the repurchase agreement becomes less than the repurchase price (including accrued interest), the Fund will direct the seller of the security to deliver additional securities so that the market value of all securities subject to the repurchase agreement equals or exceeds the repurchase price. Certain repurchase agreements which provide for settlement in more than seven days can be liquidated before the nominal fixed term on seven days or less notice.

The Fund, together with other registered investment companies having management agreements with the Investment Adviser or its affiliates, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a single joint account, the daily aggregate balance of which will be invested in one or more repurchase agreements.

**Risks of Qualified Financial Contracts** 

Regulations adopted by federal banking regulators under the Dodd-Frank Act, which took effect throughout 2019, require that certain qualified financial contracts ("QFCs") with counterparties that are part of U.S. or foreign global systemically important banking organizations be amended to include contractual restrictions on close-out and cross-default rights. QFCs include, but are not limited to, securities contracts, commodities contracts, forward contracts, repurchase agreements, securities lending agreements and swaps agreements, as well as related master agreements, security agreements, credit enhancements, and reimbursement obligations. If a covered counterparty of the Fund or certain of the covered counterparty's affiliates were to become subject to certain insolvency proceedings, the Fund may be temporarily unable to exercise certain default rights, and the QFC may be transferred to another entity. These requirements may impact the Fund's credit and counterparty risks.

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**Short Sales** 

The Fund may engage in short sales. Short sales are transactions in which the Fund sells a security it does not own in anticipation of a decline in the market value of that security. To complete such a transaction, the Fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing it at the market price at the time of replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the Fund. Until the security is replaced, the Fund is required to pay to the lender amounts equal to any dividend which accrues during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. There will also be other costs associated with short sales.

The Fund will incur a loss as a result of the short sale if the price of the security increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the Fund replaces the borrowed security. The Fund will realize a gain if the security declines in price between those dates. This result is the opposite of what one would expect from a cash purchase of a long position in a security. The amount of any gain will be decreased, and the amount of any loss increased, by the amount of any premium or amounts in lieu of interest the Fund may be required to pay in connection with a short sale, and will be also decreased by any transaction or other costs.

Until the Fund replaces a borrowed security in connection with a short sale, the Fund will fully-collateralize its position.

There is no guarantee that the Fund will be able to close out a short position at any particular time or at an acceptable price. During the time that the Fund is short a security, it is subject to the risk that the lender of the security will terminate the loan at a time when the Fund is unable to borrow the same security from another lender. If that occurs, the Fund may be "bought in" at the price required to purchase the security needed to close out the short position, which may be a disadvantageous price.

<u>Short Sales Against the Box</u>. The Fund may engage in short sales against the box. As noted above, a short sale is made by selling a security the seller does not own. A short sale is "against the box" to the extent that the seller contemporaneously owns or has the right to obtain, at no added cost, securities identical to those sold short. The Fund may enter into a short sale against the box, for example, to lock in a sales price for a security the Fund does not wish to sell immediately. If the Fund sells securities short against the box, it may protect itself from loss if the price of the securities declines in the future, but will lose the opportunity to profit on such securities if the price rises. If the Fund effects a short sale of securities at a time when it has an unrealized gain on the securities, it may be required to recognize that gain as if it had actually sold the securities (as a "constructive sale") on the date it effects the short sale. However, such constructive sale treatment may not apply if the Fund closes out the short sale with securities other than the appreciated securities held at the time of the short sale and if certain other conditions are satisfied. Uncertainty regarding the tax consequences of effecting short sales may limit the extent to which the Fund may effect short sales.

**Special Purpose Acquisition Companies** 

The Fund may invest in stock, warrants, and other securities of special purpose acquisition companies ("SPACs") or similar special purpose entities that pool funds to seek potential acquisition opportunities. A SPAC is typically a publicly traded company that raises funds through an initial public offering ("IPO") for the purpose of acquiring or merging with another company to be identified subsequent to the SPAC's IPO. The securities of a SPAC are often issued in "units" that include one share of common stock and one right or warrant (or partial right or warrant) conveying the right to purchase additional shares or partial shares. Unless and until a transaction is completed, a SPAC generally invests its assets (less a portion retained to cover expenses) in U.S. government securities, money market funds and similar investments. If an acquisition or merger that meets the requirements for the SPAC is not completed within a pre-established period of time, the invested funds are returned to the SPAC's shareholders (unless such shareholders approve alternative arrangements), less certain permitted expenses, and any rights or warrants issued by the SPAC will expire worthless.

Because SPACs and similar entities are in essence blank check companies without operating history or ongoing business other than seeking acquisitions, the value of their securities is particularly dependent on the ability of the entity's management to identify and complete a profitable acquisition. An investment in a SPAC is subject to a variety of risks, including that (i) a portion of the monies raised by the SPAC for the purpose of effecting an acquisition or merger may be expended prior to the transaction for payment of taxes and other expenses; (ii) prior to any acquisition or merger, a SPAC's assets are typically invested in U.S. government securities, money market funds and similar investments whose returns or yields may be significantly lower than those of the Fund's other investments; (iii) the Fund generally will not receive significant income from its investments in SPACs (both prior to and after any acquisition or merger) and, therefore, the Fund's investments in SPACs will not significantly contribute to the Fund's distributions to shareholders; (iv) attractive acquisition or merger targets may become scarce if the number of SPACs seeking to acquire operating businesses increases; (v) an attractive acquisition or merger target may not be identified at all, in which case the SPAC will be required to return any remaining monies to shareholders; (vi) if an acquisition or merger target is identified, the Fund may elect not to participate in, or vote to approve, the proposed transaction or the Fund may be required to divest its interests in the SPAC, due to regulatory or other considerations, in which case the Fund may not reap any resulting benefits; (vii) the warrants or other rights with respect to the SPAC held by the Fund may expire worthless or may be redeemed by the SPAC at an unfavorable price; (viii) any proposed merger or acquisition may be unable to obtain the requisite approval, if any, of SPAC shareholders and/or antitrust and securities regulators; (ix) under any circumstances in which the Fund receives a refund of all or a portion of its original investment (which typically represents a pro rata share of the proceeds of the SPAC's assets, less any applicable taxes), the returns on that investment may be negligible, and the Fund may be subject to opportunity costs to the extent that alternative investments would have produced higher returns; (x) to the extent an acquisition or merger is announced or completed, shareholders who redeem their shares prior to that time may not reap any resulting benefits; (xi) the Fund may be delayed in receiving any redemption or liquidation proceeds from a SPAC to which it is entitled; (xii) an acquisition or merger once effected may prove unsuccessful and an investment in the SPAC may lose value; (xiii) an investment in a SPAC may be diluted by additional later offerings of interests in the SPAC or by other investors exercising existing rights to purchase shares of the SPAC; (xiv) only a thinly traded market for shares of or interests in a SPAC may develop, or there may be no market at all, leaving the Fund unable to sell its interest in a SPAC or to sell its interest only at a price below what the Fund believes is the SPAC interest's intrinsic value; and (xv) the values of investments in SPACs may be highly volatile and may depreciate significantly over time.

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**Temporary Investments** 

The Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, invest a certain amount of its total assets in: U.S. Government Securities; commercial paper rated at least A-2 by S&P Global Ratings, P-2 by Moody's or having a comparable credit rating by another NRSRO (or if unrated, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality); certificates of deposit; bankers' acceptances; repurchase agreements; non-convertible preferred stocks and non-convertible corporate bonds with a remaining maturity of less than one year; ETFs and other investment companies; and cash items. When the Fund's assets are invested in such instruments, the Fund may not be achieving its investment objective.

**U.S. Government Securities** 

The Fund may invest in U.S. Government Securities. Some U.S. Government Securities (such as Treasury bills, notes and bonds, which differ only in their interest rates, maturities and times of issuance) are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States. Others, such as obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises, are supported either by (i) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury Department (the "Treasury"), (ii) the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase certain obligations of the issuer or (iii) only the credit of the issuer. The U.S. Government is under no legal obligation, in general, to purchase the obligations of its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises. No assurance can be given that the U.S. Government will provide financial support to U.S. Government agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises in the future, and the U.S. Government may be unable to pay debts when due.

U.S. Government Securities include (to the extent consistent with the Act) securities for which the payment of principal and interest is backed by an irrevocable letter of credit issued by the U.S. Government, or its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises. U.S. Government Securities may also include (to the extent consistent with the Act) participations in loans made to foreign governments or their agencies that are guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. Government or its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises. The secondary market for certain of these participations is extremely limited. These and other factors discussed in the section above, titled "Illiquid Investments," may impact the liquidity of investments in these participations.

The Fund may also purchase U.S. Government Securities in private placements and may also invest in separately traded principal and interest components of securities guaranteed or issued by the U.S. Treasury that are traded independently under the separate trading of registered interest and principal of securities program ("STRIPS"). The Fund may also invest in zero coupon U.S. Treasury securities and in zero coupon securities issued by financial institutions which represent a proportionate interest in underlying U.S. Treasury securities.

The high and rising national debt may adversely impact the U.S. economy and securities in which the Fund may invest. Moreover, the total amount of debt the Treasury is authorized to incur is subject to a statutory limit. Once the Treasury reaches the debt limit, Congress must raise, extend or otherwise modify the limit to enable the Treasury to incur additional debt to pay the obligations of the U.S. government, including principal and interest payments on certain U.S. Government Securities (such as Treasury bills, notes and bonds). Failure to, or potential failure to, increase the statutory debt limit could: increase the risk that the U.S. government defaults on payments on certain U.S. Government Securities; cause the credit rating of the U.S. government to be downgraded or increase volatility in both stock and bond markets; result in higher debt servicing payments by the U.S. government; reduce prices of Treasury securities; and/or increase the costs of certain kinds of debt.

U.S. Treasury Inflation Protected Securities ("TIPS"). The Fund may invest in U.S. treasury inflation protected securities of varying maturities issued by the U.S. Treasury, which are securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation. The interest rate on TIPS is fixed at issuance, but over the life of the bond this interest may be paid on an increasing or decreasing principal value that has been adjusted for inflation. Although repayment of the greater of the adjusted or original bond principal upon maturity is guaranteed, the market value of TIPS is not guaranteed, and will fluctuate.

The values of TIPS generally fluctuate in response to changes in real interest rates, which are in turn tied to the relationship between nominal interest rates and the rate of inflation. If inflation were to rise at a faster rate than nominal interest rates, real interest rates will decline, leading to an increase in the value of TIPS. In contrast, if nominal interest rates were to increase at a faster rate than inflation, real interest rates will rise, leading to a decrease in the value of TIPS. If inflation is lower than expected during the period the Fund holds TIPS, the Fund may earn less on the TIPS than on a conventional bond. If interest rates rise due to reasons other than inflation (for example, due to changes in the currency exchange rates), investors in TIPS may not be protected to the extent that the increase is not reflected in the bonds' inflation measure. There can be no assurance that the inflation index for TIPS will accurately measure the real rate of inflation in the prices of goods and services.

Any increase in principal value of TIPS caused by an increase in the consumer price index is taxable in the year the increase occurs, even though the Fund holding TIPS will not receive cash representing the increase at that time. As a result, the Fund could be required at times to liquidate other investments, including when it is not advantageous to do so, in order to satisfy its distribution requirements as a regulated investment company.

If the Fund invests in TIPS, it will be required to treat as original issue discount any increase in the principal amount of the securities that occurs during the course of its taxable year. If the Fund purchases such TIPS that are issued in stripped form, either as stripped bonds or coupons, it will be treated as if it had purchased a newly issued debt instrument having original issue discount.

Because the Fund is required to distribute substantially all of its net investment income (including accrued original issue discount), the Fund's investment in either zero coupon bonds or TIPS may require it to distribute to shareholders an amount greater than the total cash income it actually receives. Accordingly, in order to make the required distributions, the Fund may be required to borrow or liquidate securities.

**Variable and Floating Rate Securities** 

The interest rates payable on certain debt securities in which the Fund may invest are not fixed and may fluctuate based upon changes in market rates. Variable and floating rate obligations are debt instruments issued by companies or other entities with interest rates that reset periodically (typically, daily, monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually) in response to changes in the market rate of interest on which the interest rate is based.

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Moreover, such obligations may fluctuate in value in response to interest rate changes if there is a delay between changes in market interest rates and the interest reset date for the obligation, or for other reasons. The value of these obligations is generally more stable than that of a fixed rate obligation in response to changes in interest rate levels, but they may decline in value if their interest rates do not rise as much, or as quickly, as interest rates in general. Conversely, floating rate securities will not generally increase in value if interest rates decline.

**When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments** 

The Fund may purchase securities on a when-issued basis or purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis beyond the customary settlement time. These transactions involve a commitment by the Fund to purchase or sell securities at a future date beyond the customary settlement time. The price of the underlying securities (usually expressed in terms of yield) and the date when the securities will be delivered and paid for (the settlement date) are fixed at the time the transaction is negotiated. In addition, rules of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") include mandatory margin requirements that require the Fund to post collateral in connection with its to-be-announced ("TBA") transactions. There is no similar requirement applicable to the Fund's TBA counterparties. The required collateralization of TBA trades could increase the cost of TBA transactions to the Fund and impose added operational complexity. When- issued purchases and forward commitment transactions are negotiated directly with the other party, and such commitments are not traded on exchanges. The Fund will generally purchase securities on a when-issued basis or purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis only with the intention of completing the transaction and actually purchasing or selling the securities. If deemed advisable as a matter of investment strategy, however, the Fund may dispose of or negotiate a commitment after entering into it. The Fund may also sell securities it has committed to purchase before those securities are delivered to the Fund on the settlement date. The Fund may realize capital gains or losses in connection with these transactions. For purposes of determining the Fund's duration, the maturity of when-issued or forward commitment securities for fixed rate obligations will be calculated from the commitment date. Securities purchased or sold on a when-issued or forward commitment basis involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines prior to the settlement date or if the value of the security to be sold increases prior to the settlement date.

**Zero Coupon, Deferred Interest, Pay-In-Kind and Capital Appreciation Bonds** 

The Fund may invest in zero coupon, deferred interest, pay-in-kind ("PIK") and capital appreciation bonds. Zero coupon, deferred interest and capital appreciation bonds are debt securities issued or sold at a discount from their face value and which do not entitle the holder to any periodic payment of interest prior to maturity or a specified date. The original issue discount varies depending on the time remaining until maturity or cash payment date, prevailing interest rates, the liquidity of the security and the perceived credit quality of the issuer. These securities also may take the form of debt securities that have been stripped of their unmatured interest coupons, the coupons themselves or receipts or certificates representing interests in such stripped debt obligations or coupons.

PIK securities may be debt obligations or preferred shares that provide the issuer with the option of paying interest or dividends on such obligations in cash or in the form of additional securities rather than cash. Similar to zero coupon bonds and deferred interest bonds, PIK securities are designed to give an issuer flexibility in managing cash flow. PIK securities that are debt securities can be either senior or subordinated debt and generally trade flat (i.e., without accrued interest). The trading price of PIK debt securities generally reflects the market value of the underlying debt plus an amount representing accrued interest since the last interest payment.

The market prices of zero coupon, deferred interest, capital appreciation bonds and PIK securities generally are more volatile than the market prices of interest bearing securities and are likely to respond to a greater degree to changes in interest rates than interest bearing securities having similar maturities and credit quality. Moreover, zero coupon, deferred interest, capital appreciation and PIK securities involve the additional risk that, unlike securities that periodically pay interest to maturity, the Fund will realize no cash until a specified future payment date unless a portion of such securities is sold and, if the issuer of such securities defaults, the Fund may obtain no return at all on its investment. The valuation of such investments requires judgment regarding the collection of future payments. In addition, even though such securities do not provide for the payment of current interest in cash, the Fund is nonetheless required to accrue income on such investments for each taxable year and generally is required to distribute such accrued amounts (net of deductible expenses, if any) to avoid being subject to tax. Because no cash is generally received at the time of the accrual, the Fund may be required to liquidate other portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to satisfy federal tax distribution requirements applicable to the Fund. A portion of the discount with respect to stripped tax exempt securities or their coupons may be taxable. See "TAXATION."

*Special Note Regarding Regulatory Changes and Other Market Events* 

Federal, state, and foreign governments, regulatory agencies, and self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the Fund or the instruments in which the Fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Future legislation or regulation or other governmental actions could limit or preclude the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective or otherwise adversely impact an investment in the Fund. Furthermore, worsened market conditions, including as a result of U.S. government shutdowns or the perceived creditworthiness of the United States, could have a negative impact on securities markets.

The Fund's investments, payment obligations and financing terms may be based on floating rates, such as EURIBOR, SOFR, Term SOFR and other similar types of reference rates (each, a "Reference Rate"). All settings of LIBOR have ceased to be published and the Fund has transitioned to successor or alternative reference rates as necessary. The termination of LIBOR and any additional regulatory or market changes may have an adverse impact on the Fund's investments, performance or financial condition. To identify a successor rate for US dollar LIBOR, the Alternative Reference Rates Committee ("ARRC"), a U.S.-based group convened by the Federal Reserve Board and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, was formed. The ARRC has identified SOFR as its preferred alternative rate for LIBOR. SOFR is a measure of the cost of borrowing cash overnight, collateralized by the U.S. Treasury securities, and is based on directly observable U.S. Treasury-backed repurchase transactions. On July 29, 2021, the ARRC also formally recommended the use of forward- looking Term SOFR rates published by CME Group Benchmark Administration Limited ("CBA"). It is expected that a substantial portion of future floating rate investments will be linked to SOFR, Term SOFR or another rate determined using SOFR. At this time, it is not possible to predict the effect of the transition to any of these reference rates.

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Regulators and market participants have worked to identify or develop successor Reference Rates (e.g., SOFR, Term SOFR and other such rates) and spreads (if any) to be utilized in existing contracts or instruments as part of the transition away from LIBOR. Spreads (if any) to be utilized in existing contracts or instruments may be amended through market-wide protocols, fallback contractual provisions, bespoke negotiations, amendments, statutory replacement mechanisms or otherwise. Nonetheless, the termination of certain Reference Rates presents risks to the Fund. It is not possible to exhaustively identify or predict the effect of any such changes, any establishment of alternative Reference Rates or any other reforms to Reference Rates that may be enacted in the United Kingdom, the United States or elsewhere. The elimination of a Reference Rate or any other changes or reforms to the determination or supervision of Reference Rates may affect the value, liquidity or return on certain Fund investments and may result in costs incurred in connection with closing out positions and entering into new trades, adversely impacting the Fund's overall financial condition or results of operations. The impact of any successor or substitute Reference Rate, if any, will vary on an investment-by-investment basis, and any differences may be material and/or create material economic mismatches, especially if investments are used for hedging or similar purposes. In addition, although certain Fund investments may provide for a successor or substitute Reference Rate (or terms governing how to determine a successor or substitute Reference Rate) if the Reference Rate becomes unavailable, certain Fund investments may not provide such a successor or substitute Reference Rate (or terms governing how to determine a successor or substitute Reference Rate). Accordingly, there may be disputes as to: (i) any successor or substitute Reference Rate; or (ii) the enforceability of any Fund investment that does not provide such a successor or substitute Reference Rate (or terms governing how to determine a successor or substitute Reference Rate). The Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and/or their affiliates may have discretion to determine a successor or substitute Reference Rate, including any price or other adjustments to account for differences between the successor or substitute Reference Rate and the previous rate. The successor or substitute Reference Rate and any adjustments selected may negatively impact the Fund's investments, performance or financial condition, including in ways unforeseen by the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and/or their affiliates. In addition, any successor or substitute Reference Rate and any pricing adjustments imposed by a regulator or by counterparties or otherwise may adversely affect the Fund's performance and/or NAV, and may expose the Fund to additional tax, accounting and regulatory risks.

In the aftermath of the 2007-2008 financial crisis, the financial sector experienced reduced liquidity in credit and other fixed income markets, and an unusually high degree of volatility, both domestically and internationally. While entire markets were impacted, issuers that had exposure to the real estate, mortgage and credit markets were particularly affected. The instability in the financial markets led the U.S. government to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and certain segments of the financial markets. For example, the Dodd-Frank Act, which was enacted in 2010, provides for broad regulation of financial institutions, consumer financial products and services, broker-dealers, over-the-counter derivatives, investment advisers, credit rating agencies and mortgage lending.

Governments or their agencies may also acquire distressed assets from financial institutions and acquire ownership interests in those institutions. The implications of government ownership and disposition of these assets are unclear, and such ownership or disposition may have positive or negative effects on the liquidity, valuation and performance of the Fund's portfolio holdings.

In addition, global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, and political, economic and other conditions and events (including, but not limited to, natural disasters, pandemics, epidemics, and social unrest) in one country, region, or financial market may adversely impact issuers in a different country, region or financial market. Furthermore, the occurrence of, among other events, natural or man-made disasters, severe weather or geological events, fires, floods, earthquakes, outbreaks of disease (such as COVID-19, avian influenza or H1N1/09), epidemics, pandemics, malicious acts, cyber-attacks, terrorist acts or the occurrence of climate change, may also adversely impact the performance of the Fund. Such events may result in, among other things, closing borders, exchange closures, health screenings, healthcare service delays, quarantines, cancellations, supply chain disruptions, lower consumer demand, market volatility and general uncertainty. In addition, international trade tensions may give rise to concerns about economic and geopolitical stability and have had and likely will continue to have an adverse impact on global economic conditions. Trade disputes between the United States and other countries may be an ongoing source of instability, potentially resulting in significant currency fluctuations, or have other adverse effects on international markets, international trade agreements, or other existing cross-border cooperation arrangements. Tariffs, trade restrictions, economic sanctions, export controls, or retaliatory measures, or the threat or potential of one or more such events and developments, may result in material adverse effects on the global economy and the Fund. Such events could adversely impact issuers, markets and economies over the short- and long-term, including in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen. The Fund could be negatively impacted if the value of a portfolio holding were harmed by such political or economic conditions or events. Moreover, such negative political and economic conditions and events could disrupt the processes necessary for the Fund's operations. See "Special Note Regarding Operational, Cyber Security and Litigation Risks" for additional information on operational risks.

U.S. and global markets recently have experienced increased volatility, including as a result of the recent failures of certain U.S. and non-U.S. banks, which could be harmful to the Fund and issuers in which they invest. For example, if a bank in which the Fund or issuer has an account fails, any cash or other assets in bank accounts may be temporarily inaccessible or permanently lost by the Fund or issuer. If a bank that provides a subscription line credit facility, asset-based facility, other credit facility and/or other services to an issuer fails, the issuer could be unable to draw funds under its credit facilities or obtain replacement credit facilities or other services from other lending institutions with similar terms. Even if banks used by issuers in which the Fund invests remain solvent, continued volatility in the banking sector could cause or intensify an economic recession, increase the costs of banking services or result in the issuers being unable to obtain or refinance indebtedness at all or on as favorable terms as could otherwise have been obtained. Conditions in the banking sector are evolving, and the scope of any potential impacts to the Fund and issuers, both from market conditions and also potential legislative or regulatory responses, are uncertain. Continued market volatility and uncertainty and/or a downturn in market and economic and financial conditions, as a result of developments in the banking industry or otherwise (including as a result of delayed access to cash or credit facilities), could have an adverse impact on the Fund and issuers in which they invest.

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Pursuant to regulatory changes effective May 28, 2024, many U.S. securities transitioned to a "T+1" (trade date plus one day) settlement cycle. Securities trading in many non-U.S. markets (among other securities) are not impacted by these regulatory changes and typically have longer settlement cycles. As a result, there can be potential operational, settlement and other risks for the Fund with a significant portion of its assets invested in securities not subject to T+1 settlement. These risks include, but are not limited to, the need to maintain more cash and liquid securities (thereby creating cash drag on the portfolio) and a potential increase in custodial overdraft charges, in each case to facilitate settlement of Fund share redemptions on a T+1 basis.

*Special Note Regarding Operational, and Cyber Security and Litigation Risks* 

An investment in the Fund may be negatively impacted because of the operational risks arising from factors such as processing errors and human errors, inadequate or failed internal or external processes, failures in systems and technology, changes in personnel, and errors caused by third-party service providers or trading counterparties. The use of certain investment strategies that involve manual or additional processing, such as over-the-counter derivatives, increases these risks. Although the Fund attempts to minimize such failures through controls and oversight, it is not possible to identify all of the operational risks that may affect the Fund or to develop processes and controls that completely eliminate or mitigate the occurrence of such failures. The Fund and its shareholders could be negatively impacted as a result.

The Fund is also susceptible to operational and information security risks resulting from cyber-attacks. In general, cyber-attacks result from deliberate attacks, but other events may have effects similar to those caused by cyber-attacks. Cyber-attacks include, among others, stealing or corrupting confidential information and other data that is maintained online or digitally for financial gain, denial-of-service attacks on websites causing operational disruption, and the unauthorized release of confidential information and other data. Cyber-attacks affecting the Fund or its investment adviser, sub-adviser, custodian, transfer agent, intermediary or other third-party service provider may adversely impact the Fund and its shareholders. These cyber-attacks have the ability to cause significant disruptions and impact business operations; to result in financial losses; to prevent shareholders from transacting business; to interfere with the Fund's calculation of NAV and to lead to violations of applicable privacy and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensation costs and/or additional compliance costs. Similar to operational risk in general, the Fund and its service providers, including GSAM, have instituted risk management systems designed to minimize the risks associated with cyber security. However, there is a risk that these systems will not succeed (or that any remediation efforts will not be successful), especially because the Fund does not directly control the risk management systems of the service providers to the Fund, its trading counterparties or the issuers in which the Fund may invest. Moreover, there is a risk that cyber-attacks will not be detected.

The Fund may be subject to third-party litigation, which could give rise to legal liability. These matters involving the Fund may arise from its activities and investments and could have a materially adverse effect on the Fund, including the expense of defending against claims and paying any amounts pursuant to settlements or judgments. There can be no guarantee that these matters will not arise in the normal course of business. If the Fund was to be found liable in any suit or proceeding, any associated damages and/or penalties could have a materially adverse effect on the Fund's finances, in addition to being materially damaging to its reputation.

**INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS** 

The investment restrictions set forth below have been adopted by the Trust as fundamental policies that cannot be changed with respect to a Fund without the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined in the Act) of the Fund. The investment objective of each Fund and all other investment policies or practices of the Funds are considered by the Trust not to be fundamental and accordingly may be changed without shareholder approval. For purposes of the Act, a "majority" of the outstanding voting securities means the lesser of (i) 67% or more of the shares of the Trust or the applicable Fund present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Trust or the applicable Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Trust or the applicable Fund.

For purposes of the following limitations (except for the asset coverage requirement with respect to borrowings, which is subject to different requirements under the Act), any limitation which involves a maximum percentage shall not be considered violated unless an excess over the percentage occurs immediately after, and is caused by, an acquisition or encumbrance of securities or assets of, or borrowings by, each Fund. In applying fundamental investment restriction number (1) below to derivative transactions or instruments, including, but not limited to, futures, swaps, forwards, options and structured notes, each Fund will look to the industry of the reference asset(s) and not to the counterparty or issuer. With respect to each Fund's fundamental investment restriction number (2) below, in the event that asset coverage (as defined in the Act) at any time falls below 300%, the applicable Fund, within three days thereafter (not including Sundays and holidays) or such longer period as the SEC may prescribe by rules and regulations, will reduce the amount of its borrowings to the extent required so that the asset coverage of such borrowings will be at least 300%.

Each Fund may, notwithstanding any other fundamental investment restriction or policy, invest some or all of its assets in a single open-end investment company or series thereof with substantially the same fundamental investment restrictions and policies as the Fund.

**Fundamental Investment Restrictions** 

<u>Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF</u> 

As a matter of fundamental policy, the Fund may not:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Invest 25% or more of its total assets in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry (excluding the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities).

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Borrow money, except (a) the Fund, to the extent permitted by applicable law, may borrow from banks (as defined in the Act), other affiliated investment companies and other persons or through reverse repurchase agreements in amounts up to 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed), (b) the Fund may, to the extent permitted by applicable law, borrow up to an additional 5% of its total assets for temporary purposes, (c) the Fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of portfolio securities and (d) the Fund may purchase securities on margin to the extent permitted by applicable law.

The following interpretation applies to, but is not part of, this fundamental policy: In determining whether a particular investment in portfolio instruments or participation in portfolio transactions is subject to this borrowing policy, the accounting treatment of such instrument or participation shall be considered, but shall not by itself be determinative. Whether a particular instrument or transaction constitutes a borrowing shall be determined by the Board, after consideration of all of the relevant circumstances.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) Make loans, except through (a) the purchase of debt obligations in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies, (b) repurchase agreements with banks, brokers, dealers and other financial institutions, (c) loans of securities as permitted by applicable law, and (d) loans to affiliates of the Fund to the extent permitted by law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) Underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the sale of portfolio securities by the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriting.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) Purchase, hold or deal in real estate, although a Fund may purchase and sell securities that are secured by real estate or interests therein, securities of real estate investment trusts and mortgage-related securities and may hold and sell real estate acquired by a Fund as a result of the ownership of securities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) Invest in commodities or commodity contracts, except that the Fund may invest in currency and financial instruments and contracts that are commodities or commodity contracts.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) Issue senior securities to the extent such issuance would violate applicable law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) Make any investment inconsistent with the Fund's classification as a diversified company under the Act.

<u>Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF</u> 

As a matter of fundamental policy, the Fund may not:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Invest 25% or more of its total assets in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry (excluding the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Borrow money, except (a) the Fund, to the extent permitted by applicable law, may borrow from banks (as defined in the Act), other affiliated investment companies and other persons or through reverse repurchase agreements in amounts up to 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed), (b) the Fund may, to the extent permitted by applicable law, borrow up to an additional 5% of its total assets for temporary purposes, (c) the Fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of portfolio securities, (d) the Fund may purchase securities on margin to the extent permitted by applicable law and (e) the Fund may engage in transactions in mortgage dollar rolls which are accounted for as financings.

The following interpretation applies to, but is not part of, this fundamental policy: In determining whether a particular investment in portfolio instruments or participation in portfolio transactions is subject to this borrowing policy, the accounting treatment of such instrument or participation shall be considered, but shall not by itself be determinative. Whether a particular instrument or transaction constitutes a borrowing shall be determined by the Board, after consideration of all of the relevant circumstances.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) Make loans, except through (a) the purchase of debt obligations in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies, (b) repurchase agreements with banks, brokers, dealers and other financial institutions, (c) loans of securities as permitted by applicable law, and (d) loans to affiliates of the Fund to the extent permitted by law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) Underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the sale of portfolio securities by the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriting.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) Purchase, hold or deal in real estate, although the Fund may purchase and sell securities that are secured by real estate or interests therein, securities of real estate investment trusts and mortgage-related securities and may hold and sell real estate acquired by the Fund as a result of the ownership of securities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) Invest in commodities or commodity contracts, except that the Fund may invest in currency and financial instruments and contracts that are commodities or commodity contracts.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) Issue senior securities to the extent such issuance would violate applicable law.

<u>Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF</u> 

As a matter of fundamental policy, the Fund may not:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Invest 25% or more of its total assets in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry (excluding the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities); except that the Fund will invest at least 25% of its total assets in companies in one or more of the media, telecommunications, technology and/or internet industries.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Borrow money, except (a) the Fund may borrow from banks (as defined in the Act or through reverse repurchase agreements in amounts up to 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed), (b) the Fund may, to the extent permitted by applicable law, borrow up to an additional 5% of its total assets for temporary purposes, (c) the Fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of portfolio securities, (d) the Fund may purchase securities on margin to the extent permitted by applicable law and (e) the Fund may engage in transactions in mortgage dollar rolls which are accounted for as financings.

The following interpretation applies to, but is not part of, this fundamental policy: In determining whether a particular investment in portfolio instruments or participation in portfolio transactions is subject to this borrowing policy, the accounting treatment of such instrument or participation shall be considered, but shall not by itself be determinative. Whether a particular instrument or transaction constitutes a borrowing shall be determined by the Board, after consideration of all of the relevant circumstances.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) Make loans, except through (a) the purchase of debt obligations in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies, (b) repurchase agreements with banks, brokers, dealers and other financial institutions and (c) loans of securities as permitted by applicable law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) Underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the sale of portfolio securities by the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriting.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) Purchase, hold or deal in real estate, although the Fund may purchase and sell securities that are secured by real estate or interests therein, securities of real estate investment trusts and mortgage-related securities and may hold and sell real estate acquired by the Fund as a result of the ownership of securities.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) Invest in commodities or commodity contracts, except that the Fund may invest in currency and financial instruments and contracts that are commodities or commodity contracts.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) Issue senior securities to the extent such issuance would violate applicable law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) Make any investment inconsistent with the Fund's classification as a diversified company under the Act.

<u>Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF</u> 

As a matter of fundamental policy, the Fund may not:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) Invest more than 25% of its total assets in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry (for the purposes of this restriction, the U.S. Government, state and municipal governments and their agencies, authorities and instrumentalities are not deemed to be industries);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) Borrow money, except as permitted by the Act, or interpretations or modifications by the SEC, SEC staff or other authority with appropriate jurisdiction.

The following interpretation applies to, but is not part of, this fundamental policy: In determining whether a particular investment in portfolio instruments or participation in portfolio transactions is subject to this borrowing policy, the accounting treatment of such instrument or participation shall be considered, but shall not by itself be determinative. Whether a particular instrument or transaction constitutes a borrowing shall be determined by the Board, after consideration of all of the relevant circumstances;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) Make loans, except through (a) the purchase of debt obligations, loan interests and other interests or obligations in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies, (b) repurchase agreements with banks, brokers, dealers and other financial institutions, (c) loans of securities as permitted by applicable law or pursuant to an exemptive order granted under the Act, and (d) loans to affiliates of the Fund to the extent permitted by law;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) Underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the sale of portfolio securities by the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriting;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) Purchase, hold or deal in real estate, although the Fund may purchase and sell securities that are secured by real estate or interests therein, or that reflect the return of an index of real estate values, securities of issuers which invest or deal in real estate, securities of real estate investment trusts and mortgage-related securities and may hold and sell real estate it has acquired as a result of the ownership of securities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) Invest in physical commodities, except that the Fund may invest in currency and financial instruments and contracts in accordance with its investment objective and policies, including without limitation, structured notes, futures contracts, swaps, options on commodities, currencies, swaps and futures, ETFs, investment pools and other instruments, regardless of whether such instrument is considered to be a commodity; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) Issue senior securities to the extent such issuance would violate applicable law.

For purposes of the Funds' industry concentration policies, the Investment Adviser may analyze the characteristics of a particular issuer and instrument and may assign an industry classification consistent with those characteristics. The Investment Adviser may, but need not, consider industry classifications provided by third parties, and the classifications applied to Fund investments will be informed by applicable law.

Each Fund may, notwithstanding any other fundamental investment restriction or policy, invest some or all of its assets in a single open-end investment company or series thereof with substantially the same fundamental investment restrictions and policies as the Fund.

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**TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS** 

**The Trust's Leadership Structure** 

The business and affairs of the Funds are managed under the direction of the Board of Trustees (the "Board"), subject to the laws of the State of Delaware and the Trust's Declaration of Trust. The Trustees are responsible for deciding matters of overall policy and reviewing the actions of the Trust's service providers. The officers of the Trust conduct and supervise the Funds' daily business operations. Trustees who are not deemed to be "interested persons" of the Trust as defined in the Act are referred to as "Independent Trustees." Trustees who are deemed to be "interested persons" of the Trust are referred to as "Interested Trustees." The Board is currently composed of twelve Independent Trustees and one Interested Trustee. The Board has selected an Independent Trustee to act as Chair, whose duties include presiding at meetings of the Board and acting as a focal point to address significant issues that may arise between regularly scheduled Board and Committee meetings. In the performance of the Chair's duties, the Chair will consult with the other Independent Trustees and the Funds' officers and legal counsel, as appropriate. The Chair may perform other functions as requested by the Board from time to time.

The Board meets as often as necessary to discharge its responsibilities. Currently, the Board conducts regular meetings at least four times a year, and holds special in-person or telephonic meetings as necessary to address specific issues that require attention prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting. In addition, the Independent Trustees meet at least annually to review, among other things, investment management agreements, distribution and/or service plans and related agreements, transfer agency agreements and certain other agreements providing for the compensation of Goldman Sachs and/or its affiliates by the Funds, and to consider such other matters as they deem appropriate.

The Board has established four standing committees — Audit, Governance and Nominating, Compliance and Risk Oversight, and Contract Review Committees. The Board may establish other committees, or nominate one or more Trustees to examine particular issues related to the Board's oversight responsibilities, from time to time. Each Committee meets periodically to perform its delegated oversight functions and reports its findings and recommendations to the Board. For more information on the Committees, see the section "Standing Board Committees," below.

The Trustees have determined that the Trust's leadership structure is appropriate because it allows the Trustees to effectively perform their oversight responsibilities.

**Trustees of the Trust** 

Information pertaining to the Trustees of the Trust as of [ ], 2025 is set forth below.

**Independent Trustees** 

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name, Address <br>and Year of Birth<sup>1</sup>** | **Position(s) Held**<br> **with the Trust** | **Term of Office**<br> **and Length of**<br> **Time Served<sup>2</sup>** | **Principal Occupation(s)**<br> **During Past 5 Years** | **Number of<br>Portfolios in Fund<br>Complex Overseen<br>by Trustee<sup>3</sup>** | **Other<br>Directorships<br>Held by<br>Trustee<sup>4</sup>** |
| Gregory G. Weaver<br>1951 | Chair of the Board of Trustees | Since 2024 | Mr. Weaver is retired. Formerly, he was Director, Verizon Communications Inc. (2015–2024); Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Deloitte & Touche LLP (a professional services firm) (2001–2005 and 2012–2014); and Member of the Board of Directors, Deloitte & Touche LLP (2006– 2012).<br>Chair of the Board of Trustees—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. | [164] |  |
| Cheryl K. Beebe <br>1955 | Trustee | Since 2021 | Ms. Beebe is retired. She is Director, Packaging Corporation of America (2008–Present); Director, The Mosaic Company (2019–Present); and was formerly Director, HanesBrands Inc. (a multinational clothing company) (2020–2023); | [164] | Packaging Corporation of America (producer of container board); The Mosaic Company (producer of phosphate and potash fertilizer) |

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  |  |  | Director, Convergys Corporation (a global leader in customer experience outsourcing) (2015–2018); and formerly held the position of Executive Vice President, (2010–2014); and Chief Financial Officer, Ingredion, Inc. (a leading global ingredient solutions company) (2004–2014).<br>Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |  |  |
| Dwight L. Bush <br>1957 | Trustee | Since 2024 | The Honorable Dwight Bush is President and CEO of D.L. Bush & Associates (a financial advisory and private investment firm) (2002–2014 and 2017–Present); Director of MoneyLion, Inc. (an operator of a data-driven, digital financial platform) (2021–Present); and was formerly U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco (2014–2017) and a Member of the Board of Directors of Santander Bank, N.A. (2018–2019). Previously, he served as an Advisory Board Member of Goldman Sachs Trust and Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust (October 2019–January 2020).<br>Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. | [164] | MoneyLion, Inc. (an operator of a data-driven, digital financial platform) |
| Kathryn A. Cassidy <br>1954 | Trustee | Since 2024 | Ms. Cassidy is retired. She is Director, Vertical Aerospace Ltd. (an aerospace and technology company) (2021–Present). Formerly, Ms. Cassidy was Advisor to the Chairman (May 2014–December 2014); and Senior Vice President and Treasurer (2008–2014), General Electric Company & General Electric Capital Corporation (technology and financial services companies). | [164] | Vertical Aerospace Ltd. (an aerospace and technology company) |

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  |  |  | Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |  |  |
| John G. Chou <br>1956 | Trustee | Since 2024 | Mr. Chou is retired. Formerly, he was Executive Vice President and Special Advisor to the Chairman and CEO (2021–2022); Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer (2019–2021); Executive Vice President and Chief Legal & Business Officer (2017–2019); and Executive Vice President and General Counsel (2011–2017) of Cencora, Inc. (a pharmaceutical and healthcare company).<br>Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. | [164] |  |
| Joaquin Delgado<br> 1960 | Trustee | Since 2024 | Dr. Delgado is retired. He is Director, Stepan Company (a specialty chemical manufacturer) (2011–Present); and was formerly Director, Hexion Inc. (a specialty chemical manufacturer) (2019–2022); Executive Vice President, Consumer Business Group of 3M Company (July 2016– July 2019); and Executive Vice President, Health Care Business Group of 3M Company (October 2012–July 2016). Previously, Dr. Delgado served as an Advisory Board Member of Goldman Sachs Trust and Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust (October 2019– January 2020).<br>Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. | [164] | Stepan Company (a specialty chemical manufacturer) |

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Eileen H. Dowling<br> 1962 | Trustee | Since 2024 | Ms. Dowling is retired. Formerly, she was Senior Advisor (April 2021–September 2021); and Managing Director (2013–2021), BlackRock, Inc. (a financial services firm). As Managing Director, she held senior management positions, including Global Head of Global Consultant Relations (2017–2021), Multinational Corporations (2019– 2021), the Institutional Product Group (2015–2019) and Institutional Marketing (2013–2016). Ms. Dowling was a member of the Global Operating Committee and Product Executive Committee of BlackRock.<br>Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. | [164] |  |
| Lawrence Hughes <br>1958 | Trustee | Since 2021 | Mr. Hughes is retired. Formerly, he held senior management positions with BNY Mellon Wealth Management, a division of The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (a financial services company) (1991–2015), most recently as Chief Executive Officer (2010–2015). Previously, Mr. Hughes served as an Advisory Board Member of Goldman Sachs Trust II (February 2016 – April 2016).<br>Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. | [164] |  |
| John F. Killian <br>1954 | Trustee | Since 2021 | Mr. Killian is retired. He is Director, Consolidated Edison, Inc. (2007–Present); and was formerly Director, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company (2011–2022). Previously, he held senior management positions with Verizon Communications, Inc., including Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (2009–2010); and President, Verizon Business, Verizon Communications, Inc. (2005–2009). | [164] | Consolidated Edison, Inc. (a utility holding company) |

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|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  |  |  | Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |  |
| Steven D. Krichmar <br>1958 | Trustee | Since 2021 | Mr. Krichmar is retired. Formerly, he held senior management and governance positions with Putnam Investments, LLC, a financial services company (2001– 2016). He was most recently Chief of Operations and a member of the Operating Committee of Putnam Investments, LLC and Principal Financial Officer of The Putnam Funds. Previously, Mr. Krichmar served as an Audit Partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and its predecessor company (1990 – 2001).<br>Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. | [164] |
| Michael Latham <br>1965 | Trustee | Since 2015 | Mr. Latham is retired. Formerly, he held senior management positions with the iShares exchange-traded fund business owned by BlackRock, Inc., including Chairman (2011–2014); Global Head (2010–2011); U.S. Head (2007–2010); and Chief Operating Officer (2003– 2007).<br>Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. | [164] |
| Lawrence W. Stranghoener <br>1954 | Trustee | Since 2015 | Mr. Stranghoener is retired. Formerly, he was Chairman, Kennametal, Inc. (a global manufacturer and distributor of tooling and industrial materials) (2003–2024); Director, Aleris Corporation and Aleris International, Inc. (a producer of aluminum rolled products) (2011–2020); and Interim Chief Executive Officer (2014), Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (2004–2014), Mosaic Company (a fertilizer manufacturing company).<br>| [164] |

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  |  |  | Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |  |  |
| **Interested Trustee** | **Interested Trustee** | **Interested Trustee** | **Interested Trustee** | **Interested Trustee** | **Interested Trustee** |
| **Name, Address <br>and Year of Birth<sup>1</sup>** | **Position(s) Held**<br> **with the Trust** | **Term of Office**<br> **and Length of**<br> **Time Served<sup>2</sup>** | **Principal Occupation(s)**<br> **During Past 5 Years** | **Number of<br>Portfolios in Fund<br>Complex Overseen<br>by Trustee<sup>3</sup>** | **Other**<br> **Directorships<br>Held by<br>Trustee<sup>4</sup>** |
| James A. McNamara\* 1962 | President and Trustee | Since 2014 | Advisory Director, Goldman Sachs (January 2018– Present); Managing Director, Goldman Sachs (January 2000–December 2017); Director of Institutional Fund Sales, GSAM (April 1998–December 2000); and Senior Vice President and Manager, Dreyfus Institutional Service Corporation (a financial services firm) (January 1993–April 1998).<br>President and Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. | 164 |  |

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\* Mr. McNamara is considered to be an "Interested Trustee" of the Trust because he holds positions with Goldman Sachs and owns securities issued by The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. Mr. McNamara holds comparable positions with certain other companies of which Goldman Sachs, GSAM or an affiliate thereof is the investment adviser, administrator and/or distributor. 

1 Each Trustee may be contacted by writing to the Trustee, c/o Goldman Sachs, 200 West Street, New York, New York, 10282, Attn: Robert Griffith.

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| 2 | Subject to such policies as may be adopted by the Board from time-to-time, each Trustee holds office for an indefinite term, until the earliest of: (a) the election of his or her successor; (b) the date the Trustee resigns or is removed by the Board or shareholders, in accordance with the Trust's Declaration of Trust; or (c) the termination of the Trust. The Board has adopted policies which provide that each Independent Trustee shall retire as of June 30th following (a) his or her 75th birthday or (b) the 15th anniversary of the date he or she became a Trustee, whichever is earlier, unless a waiver of such requirements shall have been adopted by a majority of the other Trustees. These policies may be changed by the Trustees without shareholder vote.  |

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| 3 | The Goldman Sachs Fund Complex includes certain other companies listed above for each respective Trustee. As of [ ], 2025, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust consisted of [53] portfolios ([43] of which offered shares to the public); Goldman Sachs Trust consisted of [85] portfolios ([83] of which offered shares to the public); Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust consisted of [15] portfolios ([10] of which offered shares to the public); Goldman Sachs Trust II consisted of [8] portfolios ([7] of which offered shares to the public); Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II consisted of [2] portfolios; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund consisted of [one] portfolio.  |

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4 This column includes only directorships of companies required to report to the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (i.e., "public companies") or other investment companies registered under the Act.

The significance or relevance of a Trustee's particular experience, qualifications, attributes and/or skills is considered by the Board on an individual basis. Experience, qualifications, attributes and/or skills common to all Trustees include the ability to critically review, evaluate and discuss information provided to them and to interact effectively with the other Trustees and with representatives of the Investment Adviser and its affiliates, other service providers, legal counsel and the Funds' independent registered public accounting firm, the capacity to address financial and legal issues and exercise reasonable business judgment, and a commitment to the representation of the interests of a Fund and its shareholders. The Governance and Nominating Committee's charter contains certain other factors that are considered by the Governance and Nominating Committee in identifying and evaluating potential nominees to serve as Independent Trustees. Based on each Trustee's experience, qualifications, attributes and/or skills, considered individually and with respect to the experience, qualifications, attributes and/or skills of other Trustees, the Board has concluded that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee. Below is a brief discussion of the experience, qualifications, attributes and/or skills of each individual Trustee as of [ ] that led the Board to conclude that such individual should serve as a Trustee.

**Gregory G. Weaver.** Mr. Weaver has served as a Trustee and Chair of the Board since 2024. He serves as a member of the Governing Council of the Independent Directors Council. Previously, Mr. Weaver served as a Director of Verizon Communications Inc., where he served as Chair of the Audit Committee (2015–2024). Mr. Weaver was also a partner with Deloitte & Touche LLP for 30 years. He was the firm's first chairman and chief executive officer from 2001–2005, and was elected to serve a second term (2012–2014). While serving as chairman at Deloitte & Touche LLP, Mr. Weaver led the audit and enterprise risk services practice, overseeing all operations, strategic positioning, audit quality, and talent matters. Mr. Weaver also served as a member of the firm's Board of Directors for six years where he served on the Governance Committee and Partner Earnings and Benefits Committee and was chairman of the Elected Leaders Committee and Strategic Investment Committee. Mr. Weaver is also a Board member and Audit Committee chair of the YMCA of Westfield, New Jersey. Mr. Weaver has also served as President of the Council of Boy Scouts of America in Long Rivers, Connecticut, President of A Better Chance in Glastonbury, Connecticut, as a member of the Financial Accounting Standards Advisory Council and as a board member of the Stan Ross Department of Accountancy, Baruch College. Based on the foregoing, Mr. Weaver is experienced with accounting, financial and investment matters.

**Cheryl K. Beebe.** Ms. Beebe has served as a Trustee of the Trust since 2021 and was formerly Chair of the Board of Trustees from 2022 to 2024. Ms. Beebe is retired. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Packaging Corporation of America, a producer of container board, where she serves as Chair of the Audit Committee. She is also a member of the Board of Directors of The Mosaic Company, a producer of phosphate and potash fertilizer, and serves as Chair of the Audit Committee. Ms. Beebe was a member of the Board of Directors of HanesBrands Inc., a multinational clothing company, and a member of the Board of Directors of Convergys Corporation, a global leader in customer experience outsourcing, where she also served as Chair of the Audit Committee. Previously, she held several senior management positions at Ingredion, Inc. (formerly Corn Products International, Inc.), a leading global ingredient solutions company. Ms. Beebe also worked at Ingredion, Inc. and predecessor companies for 34 years, most recently as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. In that capacity, she was responsible for overseeing the company's controller, treasury, tax, investor relations, internal audit, financial planning, corporate communications and global supply chain functions. Further, she served on the Board of Trustees of Fairleigh Dickinson University, where she served as Chair of the Governance Committee. Based on the foregoing, Ms. Beebe is experienced with financial, accounting and investment matters.

**Dwight L. Bush.** The Honorable Dwight Bush has served as a Trustee since 2024. He also serves as President and CEO of D.L. Bush & Associates, a financial advisory and private investment firm, and Director of MoneyLion, Inc., an operator of a data-driven, digital financial platform. From 2014 to 2017, The Honorable Dwight Bush served as U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco. Prior to his service as U.S. Ambassador, he established and served as CEO of Urban Trust Bank and UTB Education Finance, LLC, an integrated provider of education credit services. The Honorable Dwight Bush was previously Vice President of Corporate Development for SLM Corporation (commonly known as Sallie Mae). Formerly, he served as a member of the Board of Directors of Santander Bank, N.A., JER Investors Trust, a specialty real estate finance company, and as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of CASI Pharmaceuticals (formerly Entremed, Inc.) where he was Chairman of the Audit Committee. The Honorable Dwight Bush also serves as a member of the Board of Directors for several philanthropic organizations, including the Middle East Investment Initiative and the Meridian International Center, and has served on the executive committee of Cornell University. He previously served on the Trust's Advisory Board. Based on the foregoing, The Honorable Dwight Bush is experienced with financial and investment matters.

**Kathryn A. Cassidy.** Ms. Cassidy has served as a Trustee since 2024. She is a member of the Board of Directors for Vertical Aerospace Ltd., a publicly-traded aerospace and technology company, where she serves as Chair of the Audit Committee. Previously, Ms. Cassidy held several senior management positions at General Electric Company ("GE") and General Electric Capital Corporation ("GECapital") and its subsidiaries, where she worked for 35 years, most recently as Advisor to the Chairman of GECapital and Senior Vice President and Treasurer of GE and GECapital. As Senior Vice President and Treasurer, Ms. Cassidy led capital markets and treasury matters of multiple initial public offerings. Ms. Cassidy was responsible for managing global treasury operations, including global funding, hedging, derivative accounting and execution, cash and liquidity management, cash operations and treasury services, and global regulatory compliance and reporting for liquidity, derivatives, market risk and counterparty credit risk. Formerly, Ms. Cassidy served as a Director of buildOn, a not-for-profit organization, where she served as Chair of the Finance Committee. Based on the foregoing, Ms. Cassidy is experienced with financial and investment matters.

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**John G. Chou.** Mr. Chou has served as a Trustee since 2024. Mr. Chou is retired. Formerly, he held several executive and senior management positions at Cencora, Inc. ("Cencora") (formerly AmerisourceBergen Corporation) from 2002–2022, including Executive Vice President and Special Advisor to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal & Business Officer, and Executive Vice President and General Counsel. As Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, Mr. Chou was responsible for managing Cencora's legal, regulatory, quality, privacy, global business resilience and enterprise risk management functions, among others. In addition, he previously held senior legal positions at Cigna Corporation, ARCO Chemical Europe, and Arco Chemical Company, and also practiced law at various law firms, including most recently as a member of Eckert Seamens Cherin & Mellott, LLC. Mr. Chou currently serves as the President of the Board of Trustees of Episcopal Community Services and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Committee of Seventy. Based on the foregoing, Mr. Chou is experienced with financial and investment matters.

**Joaquin Delgado.** Dr. Delgado has served as a Trustee since 2024. Dr. Delgado is a member of the Board of Directors for Stepan Company, a publicly-traded specialty chemical manufacturer. Previously, Dr. Delgado was a member of the Board of Directors for Hexion Inc., a privately held specialty chemical manufacturer, and held several senior management positions at 3M Company, where he worked for over 30 years, most recently as Executive Vice President of 3M Company's Consumer Business Group. As Executive Vice President, Vice President, and General Manager at 3M Company, Dr. Delgado directed mergers and acquisitions worldwide, and was responsible for managing global operations in specialized markets such as semiconductors, consumer electronics, communications, medical and office supplies and software. Dr. Delgado also serves as a member of the Board of Directors of Ballet Austin, a not-for-profit organization. Additionally, he formerly served as a member of the Board of Directors of MacPhail Center for Music, a not-for-profit organization. Dr. Delgado previously served on the Trust's Advisory Board. Based on the foregoing, Dr. Delgado is experienced with financial and investment matters.

**Eileen H. Dowling.** Ms. Dowling has served as a Trustee since 2024. Ms. Dowling worked at BlackRock for over 10 years, where she was a Managing Director and, most recently, a Senior Advisor. While at BlackRock, Ms. Dowling held several senior management positions responsible for clients, investment products and marketing, including Global Head of Consultant Relations, Global Head of Multinationals, Global Head of the Institutional Product Group and Global Head of Institutional Marketing. She also was a member of BlackRock's Global Operating Committee and Product Executive Committee. From 2007–2011, Ms. Dowling was a Managing Director and Global Head of Marketing at Credit Suisse Asset Management. Prior to that, over an 18-year period at Merrill Lynch, Ms. Dowling served in several roles in Investment Banking, Capital Markets and Research. Ms. Dowling currently serves as a Member of the Advisory Board and Finance Committee of New York University's Glucksman Ireland House. Based on the foregoing, Ms. Dowling is experienced with investment, financial and accounting matters.

**Lawrence Hughes.** Mr. Hughes has served as a Trustee of the Trust since 2021. Mr. Hughes is retired. Previously, he held several senior management positions at BNY Mellon Wealth Management, a division of The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation that provides wealth planning, investment management and banking services to individuals, families, family offices and charitable gift programs through a nationwide network of offices. Mr. Hughes worked at BNY Mellon Wealth Management for 24 years, most recently as Chief Executive Officer. In that capacity, he was ultimately responsible for the division's operations and played an active role in multiple acquisitions. Based on the foregoing, Mr. Hughes is experienced with financial and investment matters.

**John F. Killian.** Mr. Killian has served as a Trustee of the Trust since 2021. Mr. Killian is retired. Mr. Killian is a member of the Board of Directors of Consolidated Edison, Inc., a utility holding company, where he serves as Chair of the Audit Committee and as a member of the Corporate Governance and Nominating, and Management Development and Compensation Committees. Formerly, he was a member of the Board of Directors of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company, where he served as Chair of the Audit Committee and a member of the Compensation Committee. Previously, Mr. Killian worked for 31 years at Verizon Communications, Inc. and predecessor companies, most recently as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Based on the foregoing, Mr. Killian is experienced with accounting, financial and investment matters.

**Steven D. Krichmar.** Mr. Krichmar has served as a Trustee of the Trust since 2021. Mr. Krichmar is retired. He previously worked for fifteen years at Putnam Investments, LLC, a financial services company. Most recently, he served as Chief of Operations and a member of the Operating Committee of Putnam Investments, LLC. He was also involved in the governance of The Putnam Funds, serving as Principal Financial Officer. Before joining Putnam, Mr. Krichmar worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and its predecessor company for 20 years, most recently as Audit Partner and Investment Management Industry Leader (Assurance) for the northeast U.S. region. Currently, Mr. Krichmar is a member of the Board of Trustees of Boston Children's Hospital, where he serves as Chairman of the Audit & Compliance Committee, the Co-Chairman of the Finance Committee, a member of the Executive Committee and the Technology and Innovation Committee, and a member of the Physicians' Organization Board. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of Controlled Risk Insurance Company of Vermont, Inc. (CRICO, A Risk Retention Group) and a member of the Audit and Finance Committees of the CRICO related entities, and a member of the University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School Board. Based on the foregoing, Mr. Krichmar is experienced with accounting, financial and investment matters.

**Michael Latham.** Mr. Latham has served as a Trustee of the Trust since 2015. Mr. Latham is retired. Mr. Latham has been designated as the Board's "audit committee financial expert" given his extensive accounting and finance experience. Previously, Mr. Latham held several senior management positions for 15 years with the iShares exchange-traded fund business owned by BlackRock, Inc. and previously owned by Barclays Global Investors, most recently as Chairman and Global Head of the business. In that capacity he was one of the lead executives responsible for the growth of the business. He was also involved in governance of the iShares funds, serving initially as Principal Financial Officer and later as President and Principal Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors. Mr. Latham is a certified public accountant, and before joining Barclays Global Investors, he worked at Ernst and Young for over five years. Based on the foregoing, Mr. Latham is experienced with accounting, financial and investment matters.

**Lawrence W. Stranghoener.** Mr. Stranghoener has served as a Trustee of the Trust since 2015 and was formerly Chairman of the Board of Trustees from 2017 to 2022. Mr. Stranghoener is retired. Previously, he was Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kennametal, Inc., a global manufacturer and distributor of tooling and industrial materials, and a member of the Board of Directors of Aleris Corporation and Aleris International, Inc., which

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provided aluminum rolled products and extrusions, aluminum recycling, and specification alloy production, where he also served as Chair of the Audit Committee and as a member of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Stranghoener also held several senior management positions at Mosaic Company, a fertilizer manufacturing company, where he worked for 10 years, most recently as Interim Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. As Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Mosaic Company, Mr. Stranghoener implemented public company processes, policies and performance standards to transition the company from private to public ownership and oversaw the company's controller, treasury, tax, investor relations, strategy and business development, and internal audit functions. He also led the integration of Mosaic Company with IMC Global, Inc. during their merger. Previously, Mr. Stranghoener served for three years as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Thrivent Financial, a non-profit, financial services organization and Techies.com, an internet-based professional services company. Mr. Stranghoener also held several senior management positions at Honeywell International, Inc. where he worked for 17 years, most recently as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Based on the foregoing, Mr. Stranghoener is experienced with financial and investment matters.

**James A. McNamara.** Mr. McNamara has served as a Trustee and President of the Trust since 2014. Mr. McNamara is an Advisory Director to Goldman Sachs. Prior to retiring as Managing Director at Goldman Sachs in 2017, Mr. McNamara was head of Global Third Party Distribution at GSAM and was previously head of U.S. Third Party Distribution. Prior to that role, Mr. McNamara served as Director of Institutional Fund Sales. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, Mr. McNamara was Vice President and Manager at Dreyfus Institutional Service Corporation. Based on the foregoing, Mr. McNamara is experienced with financial and investment matters.

**Officers of the Trust** 

Information pertaining to the Officers of the Trust as of [ ], 2025 is set forth below.

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| **Name** | **Position(s) Held with the**<br> **Trust(s)** | **Term of Office and Length of**<br> **Time Served<sup>1</sup>** | **Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5<br>Years** |
| James A. McNamara<br> 200 West Street<br> New York, NY 10282<br> 1962 | Trustee and<br> President | Since 2014 | Advisory Director, Goldman Sachs (January 2018–Present); Managing Director, Goldman Sachs (January 2000–December 2017); Director of Institutional Fund Sales, GSAM (April 1998– December 2000); and Senior Vice President and Manager, Dreyfus Institutional Service Corporation (a financial services firm) (January 1993–April 1998).<br>President and Trustee—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Joseph F. DiMaria 30 Hudson Street Jersey City, NJ 07302 1968 | Treasurer, Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer | Since 2017 (Treasurer and Principal Financial Officer since 2019) | Managing Director, Goldman Sachs (November 2015–Present) and Vice President – Mutual Fund Administration, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC (May 2010–October 2015).<br>Treasurer, Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust (previously Assistant Treasurer (2017)); Goldman Sachs Trust (previously Assistant Treasurer (2016)); Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust (previously Assistant Treasurer (2016)); Goldman Sachs Trust II (previously Assistant Treasurer (2017)); Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |

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| Jessica Moran 200 West Street New York, NY 10282 1984 | Chief Compliance Officer | Since 2023 | Vice President, Goldman Sachs (April 2017–Present).<br>Chief Compliance Officer—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Peter W. Fortner 30 Hudson Street Jersey City, NJ 07302 1958 | Assistant Treasurer | Since 2014 | Vice President, Goldman Sachs (July 2000–Present); Principal Accounting Officer and Treasurer, Commerce Bank Mutual Fund Complex (2008–Present); Treasurer of Goldman Sachs Philanthropy Fund (2019–2023); and Treasurer of Ayco Charitable Foundation (2020–2023).<br>Assistant Treasurer—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Allison Fracchiolla 30 Hudson Street Jersey City, NJ 07302 1983 | Assistant Treasurer | Since 2014 | Vice President, Goldman Sachs (January 2013–Present).<br>Assistant Treasurer—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Kirsten Frivold Imohiosen 200 West Street New York, NY 10282 1970 | Assistant Treasurer | Since 2019 | Managing Director, Goldman Sachs (January 2018–Present); and Vice President, Goldman Sachs (May 1999–December 2017).<br>Assistant Treasurer—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; Goldman Sachs BDC, Inc.; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit LLC; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit II LLC; Goldman Sachs Middle Market Lending Corp.; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |

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| Steven Z. Indich 30 Hudson Street Jersey City, NJ 07302 1969 | Assistant Treasurer | Since 2019 | Vice President, Goldman Sachs (February 2010–Present).<br>Assistant Treasurer—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; Goldman Sachs BDC, Inc.; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit LLC; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit II LLC; Goldman Sachs Middle Market Lending Corp.; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Elaine Leung 30 Hudson Street Jersey City, NJ 07302 1974 | Assistant Treasurer | Since 2023 | Vice President, Goldman Sachs (January 2021 Present); and Associate, Goldman Sachs (March 2014–December 2020).<br>Assistant Treasurer—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Carol Liu 30 Hudson Street Jersey City, NJ 07302 1975 | Assistant Treasurer | Since 2019 | Vice President, Goldman Sachs (October 2017–Present); Tax Director, The Raine Group LLC (August 2015–October 2017); and Tax Director, Icon Investments LLC (January 2012–August 2015).<br>Assistant Treasurer— Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; Goldman Sachs BDC, Inc.; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit LLC; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit II LLC; Goldman Sachs Middle Market Lending Corp.; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Christopher Bradford 200 West Street New York, NY 10282 1981 | Vice President | Since 2020 | Vice President, Goldman Sachs (January 2014–Present).<br>Vice President—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |

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| Anney Chi 200 West Street New York, NY 10282 1973 | Vice President | Since 2022 | Vice President, Goldman Sachs (2014–Present).<br>Vice President—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Alyson Shupe 200 West Street New York, NY 10282 1986 | Vice President | Since 2024 | Managing Director, Goldman Sachs (December 2023–Present); Head of Product Strategy (U.S. Advisor & Latin America), J.P. Morgan Asset Management (August 2018–December 2023).<br>Vice President—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Michael Twohig 200 West Street New York, NY 10282 1965 | Vice President | Since 2019 | Vice President, Goldman Sachs (2014 – Present).<br>Vice President—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; Goldman Sachs Trust II; and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund. |
| Caroline L. Kraus 200 West Street New York, NY 10282 1977 | Chief Legal Officer | Since 2014 | Managing Director, Goldman Sachs (January 2016–Present); Vice President, Goldman Sachs (August 2006–December 2015); Senior Counsel, Goldman Sachs (January 2020–Present); Associate General Counsel, Goldman Sachs (2012–December 2019); Assistant General Counsel, Goldman Sachs (August 2006– December 2011); and Associate, Weil, Gotshal & Manges, LLP (2002–2006).<br>Chief Legal Officer—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust; Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust; Goldman Sachs Trust II; Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II; Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund; Goldman Sachs BDC, Inc.; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit LLC; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit II LLC; Goldman Sachs Private Credit Corp.; Phillip Street Middle Market Lending Fund LLC; and Goldman Sachs Middle Market Lending Corp. II.<br>Secretary—Goldman Sachs BDC, Inc.; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit LLC; Goldman Sachs Private Middle Market Credit II LLC; Goldman Sachs Private Credit Corp.; Phillip Street Middle Market Lending Fund LLC; and Goldman Sachs Middle Market Lending Corp. II. |

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| Robert Griffith 200 West Street New York, NY 10282 1974 | Secretary | Since 2022 | Managing Director, Goldman Sachs (September 2022–Present); General Counsel, Exchange Traded Concepts, LLC (October 2021– September 2022); Vice President, Goldman Sachs (August 2011– October 2021); Associate General Counsel, Goldman Sachs (December 2014–Present); Assistant General Counsel, Goldman Sachs (August 2011–December 2014); Vice President and Counsel, Nomura Holding America, Inc. (2010–2011); and Associate, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP (2005–2010).<br>Secretary—Goldman Sachs ETF Trust (previously Assistant Secretary (2022)); Goldman Sachs Trust (previously Assistant Secretary (2022)); Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust (previously Assistant Secretary (2022)); Goldman Sachs Trust II (previously Assistant Secretary (2022)); Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II (previously Assistant Secretary (2022)); and Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund (previously Assistant Secretary (2022)). |

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| 1 | Officers hold office at the pleasure of the Board of Trustees or until their successors are duly elected and qualified. Each officer holds comparable positions with certain other companies of which Goldman Sachs, GSAM or an affiliate thereof is the investment adviser, administrator and/or distributor.  |

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**Standing Board Committees** 

The Audit Committee oversees the audit process and provides assistance to the Board with respect to fund accounting, tax compliance and financial statement matters. In performing its responsibilities, the Audit Committee selects and recommends annually to the Board an independent registered public accounting firm to audit the books and records of the Trust for the ensuing year, and reviews with the firm the scope and results of each audit. All of the Independent Trustees serve on the Audit Committee, and Mr. Latham serves as Chair of the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee met six times during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024.

The Governance and Nominating Committee has been established to: (i) assist the Board in matters involving fund governance, which includes making recommendations to the Board with respect to the effectiveness of the Board in carrying out its responsibilities in governing the Funds and overseeing its management; (ii) select and nominate candidates for appointment or election to serve as Independent Trustees; and (iii) advise the Board on ways to improve its effectiveness. All of the Independent Trustees serve on the Governance and Nominating Committee. As stated above, each Trustee holds office for an indefinite term until the occurrence of certain events. In filling Board vacancies, the Governance and Nominating Committee will consider nominees recommended by shareholders. Nominee recommendations should be submitted to the Trust at its mailing address stated in the Funds' Prospectus and should be directed to the attention of the Governance and Nominating Committee. The Governance and Nominating Committee met three times during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024.

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The Compliance and Risk Oversight Committee has been established for the purpose of overseeing the compliance and risk processes: (i) of the Funds; and (ii) insofar as they relate to services provided to the Funds, of the Funds' Investment Adviser,

Distributor, administrator (if any), and Transfer Agent, except that compliance processes relating to the accounting and financial reporting processes, and certain related matters, are overseen by the Audit Committee. In addition, the Compliance and Risk Oversight Committee provides assistance to the full Board with respect to compliance and risk oversight matters. All of the Independent Trustees serve on the Compliance and Risk Oversight Committee. The Compliance Committee met six times during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024.

The Contract Review Committee has been established for the purpose of overseeing the processes of the Board for reviewing and monitoring performance under the Funds' investment management, distribution, transfer agency, and certain other agreements with the Funds' Investment Adviser and its affiliates. The Contract Review Committee is also responsible for overseeing the Board's processes for considering and reviewing performance under the operation of the Funds' distribution, service, shareholder administration and other plans, and any agreements related to the plans. The Contract Review Committee also provides appropriate assistance to the Board in connection with the Board's approval, oversight and review of the Funds' other service providers including, without limitation, the Funds' custodian/accounting agent, sub-transfer agents, professional (legal and accounting) firms and printing firms. All of the Independent Trustees serve on the Contract Review Committee. The Contract Review Committee met six times during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024.

**Risk Oversight** 

The Board is responsible for the oversight of the activities of the Funds, including oversight of risk management. Day-to-day risk management with respect to the Funds is the responsibility of GSAM or other service providers (depending on the nature of the risk), subject to supervision by GSAM. The risks of the Funds include, but are not limited to, liquidity risk, investment risk, derivatives risk, compliance risk, manager selection risk, operational risk, reputational risk, credit risk and counterparty risk. Each of GSAM and the other service providers have their own independent interest in risk management and their policies and methods of risk management may differ from the Funds and each other's in the setting of priorities, the resources available or the effectiveness of relevant controls. As a result, the Board recognizes that it is not possible to identify all of the risks that may affect the Funds or to develop processes and controls to eliminate or mitigate their occurrence or effects, and that some risks are simply beyond the control of the Funds or GSAM, their respective affiliates or other service providers.

The Board effectuates its oversight role primarily through regular and special meetings of the Board and Board committees. In certain cases, risk management issues are specifically addressed in reports, presentations and discussions. For example, on an annual basis, GSAM (or personnel from GSAM) will provide the Board with written reports that address the operation, adequacy and effectiveness of the Trust's liquidity risk management and derivatives risk management programs, which are generally designed to assess and manage liquidity risk and, for Full Compliance Funds, derivatives risk. GSAM also has a risk management team that assists GSAM in managing investment risk. Representatives from the risk management team meet regularly with the Board to discuss their analysis and methodologies. In addition, investment risk is discussed in the context of regular presentations to the Board on Fund strategy. Other types of risk are addressed as part of presentations on related topics (e.g. compliance policies) or in the context of presentations focused specifically on one or more risks. The Board also receives reports from GSAM management on operational risks, reputational risks and counterparty risks relating to the Funds.

Board oversight of risk management is also performed by various Board committees. For example, the Audit Committee meets with both the Funds' independent registered public accounting firm and GSAM's internal audit group to review risk controls in place that support the Funds as well as test results, and the Compliance and Risk Oversight Committee meets with the CCO and representatives of GSAM's compliance and risk oversight groups to review testing results of the Funds' compliance policies and procedures and other compliance and risk issues. Board oversight of risk is also performed as needed between meetings through communications between GSAM and the Board. The Board may, at any time and in its discretion, change the manner in which it conducts risk oversight. The Board's oversight role does not make the Board a guarantor of the Funds' investments or activities.

**Trustee Ownership of Fund Shares** 

The following table shows the dollar range of shares beneficially owned by each Trustee in the Funds and other portfolios of the Goldman Sachs Fund Complex as of December 31, 2024.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name of Trustee** | **Dollar Range of<br>Equity Securities in each Fund<sup>1</sup>** | **Aggregate Dollar Range of<br>Equity Securities in All**<br>**Portfolios in Fund Complex<br>Overseen By Trustee** | **Aggregate Dollar Range of<br>Equity Securities in All**<br>**Portfolios in Fund Complex<br>Overseen By Trustee** |
|  Gregory G. Weaver |  | Over $| 100000 |
|  Cheryl K. Beebe |  | Over $| 100000 |
|  Dwight L. Bush |  | Over $| 100000 |
|  Kathryn A. Cassidy |  | Over $| 100000 |
|  John G. Chou |  | Over $| 100000 |
|  Joaquin Delgado |  | Over $| 100000 |
|  Eileen Dowling |  | Over $| 100000 |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  Lawrence Hughes | Over $| 100000.0 |
|  John F. Killian | Over $| 100000.0 |
|  Steven D. Krichmar | Over $| 100000.0 |
|  Michael Latham | Over $| 100000.0 |
|  Lawrence W. Stranghoener | Over $| 100000.0 |
|  James A. McNamara | Over $| 100000.0 |

---

<sup>1</sup> Includes the value of shares beneficially owned by each Trustee in the Funds. 

As of the date of this SAI, the Trustees and Officers of the Trust did not own any of the outstanding shares of beneficial interest of the Funds.

**Board Compensation** 

Each Independent Trustee is compensated with a unitary annual fee for his or her services as a Trustee of the Trust and as a member of the Audit Committee, Compliance and Risk Oversight Committee, Contract Review Committee, and Governance and Nominating Committee. The Chair and Trustees designated as "audit committee financial experts" receive additional compensation for their services in such capacities. The Independent Trustees are also reimbursed for reasonable travel expenses incurred in connection with attending meetings. The Trust may also pay the reasonable incidental costs of a Trustee to attend training or other types of conferences relating to the investment company industry.

The following tables set forth certain information with respect to the compensation of each Trustee of the Trust for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024:

**Trustee Compensation** 

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name of Trustee** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Enhanced<br>U.S. Equity<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Growth<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs<br>Technology<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** | **Goldman<br>Sachs Value<br>Opportunities<br>ETF** |
|  Gregory G. Weaver<sup>(1)</sup> | – |  | – |  |
|  Cheryl K. Beebe<sup>(2)</sup> | – |  | – |  |
|  Dwight L. Bush<sup>(1)</sup> | – |  | – |  |
|  Kathryn A. Cassidy<sup>(1)</sup> | – |  | – |  |
|  John G. Chou<sup>(1)</sup> | – |  | – |  |
|  Joaquin Delgado<sup>(1)</sup> | – |  | – |  |
|  Eileen Dowling<sup>(1)</sup> | – |  | – |  |
|  Lawrence Hughes | – |  | – |  |
|  John F. Killian | – |  | – |  |
|  Steven D. Krichmar | – |  | – |  |
|  Michael Latham<sup>(3)</sup> | – |  | – |  |
|  Lawrence W. Stranghoener | – |  | – |  |
|  James A. McNamara(<sup>4</sup>) | – |  | – |  |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name of Trustee** | **Pension or<br>Retirement<br>Benefits<br>Accrued as<br>Part Of the<br>Trust's<br>Expenses** | **Total<br>Compensation<br>From the Fund<br>Complex<br>(including the<br>Fund)<sup>(6)</sup>** |
|  Gregory G. Weaver<sup>(1)(2)</sup> | $0 | $553500 |
|  Cheryl K. Beebe<sup>(2)</sup> | $0 | $379000 |
|  Dwight L. Bush<sup>(1)</sup> | $0 | $373500 |
|  Kathryn A. Cassidy<sup>(1)(3)</sup> | $0 | $438500 |
|  John G. Chou<sup>(1)</sup> | $0 | $373500 |
|  Joaquin Delgado<sup>(1)</sup> | $0 | $373500 |
|  Eileen Dowling<sup>(1)</sup> | $0 | $373500 |
|  Lawrence Hughes | $0 | $331500 |
|  John F. Killian | $0 | $331500 |
|  Steven D. Krichmar | $0 | $331500 |
|  Michael Latham<sup>(3)</sup> | $0 | $381500 |
|  Lawrence W. Stranghoener | $0 | $331500 |
|  Paul C. Wirth<sup>(4)</sup> | $0 | $373500 |
|  James A. McNamara<sup>(5)</sup> |  |  |

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\* The Funds had not commenced operations as of [ ]. [Under current compensation arrangements, it is not expected that the Trustees will receive compensation from the Fund for the current fiscal year.]

1 Mses. Cassidy and Dowling and Messrs. Bush, Chou, Delgado and Weaver began serving as Trustees of the Trust effective January 1, 2024.

2 Includes compensation as Board Chair. Effective January 1, 2024, Ms. Beebe stepped down as Board Chair of Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Goldman Sachs Trust II, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust and Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II and Mr. Weaver began serving as Board Chair.

3 Includes compensation as "audit committee financial expert," as defined in Item 3 of Form N-CSR.

4 As of January 15, 2025, Mr. Wirth no longer serves on the Board of Trustees.

5 Mr. McNamara is an Interested Trustee due to the positions he holds with Goldman Sachs, and as such, receives no compensation from the Funds or the Goldman Sachs Fund Complex.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| 6 | Represents fees paid to each Trustee during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024 from the Goldman Sachs Fund Complex, which consists of Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Goldman Sachs Trust II, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust and Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II. For Ms. Beebe and Messrs. Hughes, Killian, Krichmar, Latham and Stranghoener, the Goldman Sachs Fund Complex consisted of Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Goldman Sachs Trust II, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust, and Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II prior to January 1, 2024. For Mses. Cassidy and Dowling and Messrs. Bush, Chou, Delgado and Weaver, the Goldman Sachs Fund Complex consisted of Goldman Sachs Trust and Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust prior to January 1, 2024. For Mr. McNamara, the Goldman Sachs Fund Complex consisted of Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs Trust II, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust, and Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II prior to January 1, 2024.  |

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**Miscellaneous** 

The Trust, its Investment Adviser and the Distributor have adopted codes of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the Act that permit personnel subject to their particular codes of ethics to invest in securities, including securities that may be purchased or held by the Funds.

**MANAGEMENT SERVICES** 

As stated in the Funds' Prospectus, GSAM, 200 West Street, New York, New York 10282, serves as Investment Adviser to the Funds.

GSAM is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. and an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. See "Service Providers" in the Funds' Prospectus for a description of the Investment Adviser's duties to the Funds.

Founded in 1869, The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. is a publicly-held financial holding company and a leading global investment banking, securities and investment management firm. Goldman Sachs is a leader in developing portfolio strategies and in many fields of investing and financing, participating in financial markets worldwide and serving individuals, institutions, corporations and governments. Goldman Sachs is also among the principal market sources for current and thorough information on companies, industrial sectors, markets, economies and currencies, and trades and makes markets in a wide range of equity and debt securities 24 hours a day. The firm is headquartered in New York with offices in countries throughout the world. It has trading professionals throughout the United States, as well as in London, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Seoul, Sao Paulo and other major financial centers around the world. The active participation of Goldman Sachs in the world's financial markets enhances its ability to identify attractive investments. Goldman Sachs has agreed to permit the Funds to use the name "Goldman Sachs" or a derivative thereof as part each Fund's name for as long as the Funds' management agreement (the "Management Agreement") is in effect.

Each Management Agreement provides that GSAM, in its capacity as Investment Adviser, may render similar services to others so long as the services under the Management Agreement are not impaired thereby. Each Fund's Management Agreement was most recently approved by the Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the Trustees of the Trust who are not parties to such agreement or "interested persons" (as such term is defined in the Act) of any party thereto (the "non-interested Trustees"), on June 17-18, 2025. A discussion regarding the Board of Trustees' basis for approving the Management Agreement with respect to each Fund will be available in the Fund's Form N-CSR for the first fiscal period following its launch.

Each Management Agreement will remain in effect for an initial two-year period and will continue in effect with respect to the Fund from year to year thereafter provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually as set forth in the Management Agreement.

Each Management Agreement will terminate automatically if assigned (as defined in the Act). A Management Agreement is also terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund on 60 days' written notice to the Investment Adviser or by the Investment Adviser on 60 days' written notice to the Trust.

Pursuant to the Management Agreement, the Investment Adviser is entitled to receive the fee set forth below, payable monthly based on each Fund's average daily net assets. Under the Management Agreement, the Investment Adviser is responsible for substantially all the expenses of each Fund, excluding payments under the Fund's 12b-1 plan (if any), interest, expenses, taxes, acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage fees, costs of holding shareholder meetings and litigation, indemnification and extraordinary expenses. The actual management fee of each Fund (based on the management fee of the predecessor fund) for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024 is disclosed below, as well as the management fee payable by each Fund.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Contractual<br>Rate** | **Actual Rate for<br>the Fiscal Year<br>Ended August**<br>**31, 2024** |
|  Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF | 0.65% | 0.85% |
|  Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | 0.30% | 0.52% |
|  Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF | 0.45% | 0.71% |
|  Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF | 0.45% | 0.65% |

---

The actual rate may not correlate to the contractual rate of a predecessor fund as a result of these management fee waivers that may be in effect from time to time. The Investment Adviser may waive a portion of its management fee payable by a Fund in an amount equal to any management fees it earns as an investment adviser to any of the affiliated funds in which the Fund invests.

The imposition of the Investment Adviser's fees will have the effect of reducing the total return to investors. From time to time, the Investment Adviser may waive receipt of its fees, which would have the effect of lowering a Fund's overall expense ratio and increasing total return to investors at the time such amounts are waived.

The Investment Adviser may waive a portion of its management fee, including fees earned as the Investment Adviser to the any of affiliated funds in which a Fund invests, from time to time, and may discontinue or modify any such waiver in the future, consistent with the terms of any fee waiver arrangements in place. Any such waiver would be voluntary and may be terminated at any time. For the fiscal years ended August 31, 2024, August 31, 2023 and August 31, 2022, the amounts of the fees incurred by each Fund (based on the fees incurred by the applicable predecessor fund under its Management Agreement) were as follows (with and without the fee limitations that were then in effect):

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **2024<br>Without Fee<br>Limitations** | **With Fee<br>Limitations** |
|  Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF | $6634658 | $6619358 |
|  Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | $1033669 | $1031569 |
|  Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF | $1144413 | $1143312 |
|  Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF | $350740 | $329303 |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **2023<br>Without Fee<br>Limitations** | **With Fee<br>Limitations** |
|  Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF | $5115297 | $4796230 |
|  Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | $265773 | $264877 |
|  Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF | $936312 | $935620 |
|  Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF | $309995 | $296775 |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **2022<br>Without Fee<br>Limitations** | **With Fee<br>Limitations** |
|  Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF | $7066122 | $6917436 |
|  Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | $222321 | $221763 |
|  Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF | $1314248 | $1312431 |
|  Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF | $278649 | $277909 |

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In addition to providing advisory services, under its Management Agreement, the Investment Adviser also, to the extent such services are not required to be performed by others pursuant to the fund administration and accounting agreement, the custodian agreement, the transfer agency agreement, distribution agreement or such other agreements with service providers to the Fund that the Board has approved: (i) supervises all non-advisory operations of each Fund that it advises; (ii) provides personnel to perform such executive, administrative and clerical services as are reasonably necessary to provide effective administration of the Fund; (iii) arranges for: (a) the preparation of all required tax returns, (b) the preparation and submission of reports to existing shareholders, (c) the periodic updating of prospectuses and statements of additional information and (d) the preparation of reports to be filed with the SEC and other regulatory authorities; (iv) maintains each Fund's records; and (v) provides office space and all necessary office equipment and services.

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**Legal Proceedings** 

On October 22, 2020, The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. announced a settlement of matters involving 1Malaysia Development Bhd. (1MDB), a Malaysian sovereign wealth fund, with the United States Department of Justice as well as criminal and civil authorities in the United Kingdom, Singapore and Hong Kong. Further information regarding the 1MDB settlement can be found at https://www.goldmansachs.com/pressroom/press-releases/2020/goldman-sachs-2020-10-22. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. previously entered into a settlement agreement with the Government of Malaysia and 1MDB to resolve all criminal and regulatory proceedings in Malaysia relating to 1MDB.

The Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and certain of their affiliates have received exemptive relief from the SEC to permit them to continue serving as investment adviser and principal underwriter for U.S.-registered investment companies.

**Portfolio Managers — Other Accounts Managed by the Portfolio Managers** 

The following table discloses accounts within each type of category listed below for which the portfolio managers are jointly and primarily responsible for day to day portfolio management as of [ ], 2025, unless otherwise noted.

For each portfolio manager listed below, the total number of accounts managed is a reflection of accounts within the strategy they oversee or manage. There are multiple portfolio managers involved with each account.

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| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Number of Other Accounts Managed and Total Assets<br>by Account Type†** | **Number of Other Accounts Managed and Total Assets<br>by Account Type†** | **Number of Other Accounts Managed and Total Assets<br>by Account Type†** | **Number of Other Accounts Managed and Total Assets<br>by Account Type†** | **Number of Other Accounts Managed and Total Assets<br>by Account Type†** | **Number of Other Accounts Managed and Total Assets<br>by Account Type†** | **Number of Accounts and Total Assets for Which<br>Advisory Fee is Performance Based†** | **Number of Accounts and Total Assets for Which<br>Advisory Fee is Performance Based†** | **Number of Accounts and Total Assets for Which<br>Advisory Fee is Performance Based†** | **Number of Accounts and Total Assets for Which<br>Advisory Fee is Performance Based†** | **Number of Accounts and Total Assets for Which<br>Advisory Fee is Performance Based†** | **Number of Accounts and Total Assets for Which<br>Advisory Fee is Performance Based†** |
|  | **Registered<br>Investment<br>Companies** | **Registered<br>Investment<br>Companies** | **Other Pooled<br>Investment<br>Vehicles** | **Other Pooled<br>Investment<br>Vehicles** | **Other<br>Accounts** | **Other<br>Accounts** | **Registered<br>Investment<br>Companies** | **Registered<br>Investment<br>Companies** | **Other Pooled<br>Investment<br>Vehicles** | **Other Pooled<br>Investment<br>Vehicles** | **Other<br>Accounts** | **Other<br>Accounts** |
| **Name of Portfolio Manager Portfolio** | **Number<br>of<br>Accounts** | **Assets<br>Managed** | **Number<br>of<br>Accounts** | **Assets<br>Managed** | **Number<br>of<br>Accounts** | **Assets<br>Managed** | **Number<br>of<br>Accounts** | **Assets<br>Managed** | **Number<br>of<br>Accounts** | **Assets<br>Managed** | **Number<br>of<br>Accounts** | **Assets<br>Managed** |
|  Jenny Chang | [] | $[] | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |  |  | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |
|  Sung Cho | [] | $[] | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |  |  | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |
|  Charles "Brook" Dane | [] | $[] | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |  |  | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |
|  Kevin Martens | [] | $[] | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |  |  | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |
|  Raj Garigipati | [] | $[] | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |  |  | [] | $[] | [] | $[] |

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† Footnotes:

1 Asset information is in USD millions unless otherwise specified.

2 "Other Pooled Investment Vehicles" includes private investment funds and SICAVs (a type of open-end investment company organized outside the U.S.).

3 "Other Accounts" includes a separately managed account platform, advisory mutual fund platform, advisory relationships and others. For purposes of the above, a platform is included as a single account.

<u>Conflicts of Interest</u>. The Investment Adviser's portfolio managers are often responsible for managing the Funds as well as other registered funds, accounts, including proprietary accounts, separate accounts and other pooled investment vehicles, such as unregistered private funds. A portfolio manager may manage a separate account or other pooled investment vehicle which may have materially higher fee arrangements than the Funds and may also have a performance-based fee. The side-by-side management of these funds may raise potential conflicts of interest relating to cross trading, the allocation of investment opportunities and the aggregation and allocation of trades.

The Investment Adviser has a fiduciary responsibility to manage all client accounts in a fair and equitable manner. To this end, the Investment Adviser has developed policies and procedures designed to mitigate and manage the potential conflicts of interest that may arise from side-by-side management. In addition, the Investment Adviser and the Funds have adopted policies limiting the circumstances under which cross-trades may be effected between the Funds and another client account. The Investment Adviser conducts periodic reviews of trades for consistency with these policies. For more information about conflicts of interests that may arise in connection with a portfolio manager's management of the Funds' investments and the investments of other accounts, see "Potential Conflicts of Interest."

**Portfolio Managers — Compensation** 

Compensation for portfolio managers of the Investment Adviser is comprised of a base salary and year-end discretionary variable compensation. The base salary is fixed from year to year. Year-end discretionary variable compensation is primarily a function of each portfolio manager's individual performance and his or her contribution to overall team performance; the performance of the Investment Adviser and Goldman Sachs; the team's net revenues for the past year which is primarily derived from advisory fees; and anticipated compensation levels among competitor firms.

The discretionary variable compensation for portfolio managers is also significantly influenced by various factors, including: (1) effective participation in team discussions and process; and (2) management of risk in alignment with the targeted risk parameters and investment objective of the applicable Fund. Other factors may also be considered including: (1) general client/shareholder orientation and (2) teamwork and leadership.

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As part of their year-end discretionary variable compensation and subject to certain eligibility requirements, portfolio managers of the Funds may receive deferred equity-based and similar awards, in the form of: (1) shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (restricted stock units); and, (2) for certain portfolio managers, performance-tracking (or "phantom") shares of a Fund or multiple Funds. Performance-tracking shares are designed to provide a rate of return (net of fees) equal to that of the Fund(s) that a portfolio manager manages, or one or more other eligible Funds, as determined by senior management, thereby aligning portfolio manager compensation with fund shareholder interests. The awards are subject to vesting requirements, deferred payment and clawback and forfeiture provisions. GSAM, Goldman Sachs or their affiliates expect, but are not required to, hedge the exposure of the performance-tracking shares of a Fund by, among other things, purchasing shares of the relevant Fund(s).

Other Compensation—In addition to base salary and year-end discretionary variable compensation, the Investment Adviser has a number of additional benefits in place including (1) a 401(k) program that enables employees to direct a percentage of their base salary and bonus income into a tax-qualified retirement plan; and (2) investment opportunity programs in which certain professionals may participate subject to certain eligibility requirements.

**Portfolio Managers — Portfolio Managers' Ownership of Securities in the Funds They Manage** 

The Funds were not in operation as of [ ], 2025. Consequently, the portfolio managers owned no securities issued by the Funds as of that date.

The following table shows the portfolio managers' ownership of securities of the predecessor fund, including those beneficially owned as well as those owned pursuant to the deferred compensation plan discussed above, in the predecessor funds as of August 31, 2024, unless otherwise noted:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Name of Portfolio Manager** | **Dollar Range of**<br>**Equity Securities<br>Beneficially**<br>**Owned by**<br>**Portfolio**<br>**Manager** |
|  **Technology Opportunities Fund** |  |
|  Sung Cho | $500001-$1000000 |
|  Charles "Brook" Dane | $500001-$1000000 |
|  Raj Garigipati |  |
|  **Enhanced U.S. Equity Fund** |  |
|  Jenny Chang |  |
|  Kevin Martens |  |
|  Raj Garigipati |  |
|  **Strategic Growth Fund** |  |
|  Sung Cho |  |
|  Charles "Brook" Dane |  |
|  Raj Garigipati |  |
|  **Focused Value Fund** |  |
|  Charles "Brook" Dane | $500001-$1000000 |
|  Kevin Martens | $100001-$500000 |
|  Raj Garigipati |  |

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**Distributor and Transfer Agent** 

*Distributor:* ALPS Distributors, Inc., 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, Colorado 80203, serves as the exclusive distributor of Creation Units of shares of the Funds pursuant to a "best efforts" arrangement as provided by a distribution agreement with the Trust on behalf of the Funds. Shares of the Funds are offered and sold on a continuous basis by ALPS, acting as agent. The Distributor does not maintain a secondary market in the Funds' Shares.

*Transfer Agent:* The Bank of New York Mellon, 240 Greenwich Street, New York, New York 10286, serves as the Trust's transfer and dividend disbursing agent. Under its transfer agency agreement with the Trust, BNYM has undertaken with the Trust to provide the following services with respect to each Fund: (i) perform and facilitate the performance of purchases and redemptions of Creation Units, (ii) prepare and transmit by means of Depository Trust Company's ("DTC") book-entry system payments for dividends and distributions on or with respect to the Shares declared by the Trust on behalf of the applicable Fund, (iii) prepare and deliver reports, information and documents as specified in the transfer agency agreement, (iv) perform the customary services of a transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent, and (v) render certain other miscellaneous services as specified in the transfer agency agreement or as otherwise agreed upon.

The Trust's distribution and transfer agency agreements each provide that BNYM may render similar services to others so long as the services BNYM provides thereunder are not impaired thereby. Such agreements also provide that the Trust will indemnify BNYM against certain liabilities.

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**Expenses** 

The Board of Trustees of the Trust has approved a unitary management fee structure for the Funds. Under the unitary fee structure, the Investment Adviser is responsible for paying substantially all the expenses of each Fund, excluding payments under the Fund's 12b-1 plan (if any), interest expenses, taxes, acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage fees, costs of holding shareholder meetings and litigation, indemnification and extraordinary expenses.

The imposition of the Investment Adviser's fees, as well as any other operating expenses not borne by the Investment Adviser as described above, will have the effect of reducing the total return to investors. From time to time, the Investment Adviser may waive receipt of its fees, which would have the effect of lowering the Funds' overall expense ratio and increasing total return to investors at the time such amounts are waived or assumed, as the case may be.

**Custodian, Sub-Custodians and Provider of Administrative Services** 

BNYM is the custodian of the Trust's portfolio securities and cash. The custodian of the Trust may change from time to time. BNYM also maintains the Trust's accounting records. BNYM may appoint domestic and foreign sub-custodians and use depositories from time to time to hold securities and other instruments purchased by the Trust in foreign countries and to hold cash and currencies for the Trust.

BNYM provides administrative services pursuant to the fund administration agreement with the Trust (the "Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement") pursuant to which BNYM provides certain services, including, among others, (i) preparation of certain shareholder reports and communications; (ii) preparation of certain reports and filings with the SEC; (iii) certain net asset value computation services; and (iv) such other services for the Trust as may be mutually agreed upon between the Trust and BNYM. For its services under the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement, BNYM receives such fees based on a stated percentage of net assets as are agreed upon from time to time between the parties. In addition, BNYM is reimbursed by the Funds for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement. In addition, an affiliate of BNYM will also provide certain other services for the Trust, including, (i) providing foreign exchange transaction services and (ii) executing trades in connection with certain creation and redemption transactions effected partially in cash. For these services, the BNYM affiliate will receive compensation based on levels that are negotiated with the Trust and/or the Investment Adviser. BNYM also provides certain middle office services to GSAM pursuant to a service agreement.

**Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm** 

[ ], is the Funds' independent registered public accounting firm. The Funds' independent registered public accounting firm may change from time to time. In addition to audit services, [ ] provides assistance on certain non-audit matters.

**POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST** 

**General Categories of Conflicts Associated with the Funds** 

Goldman Sachs (which, for purposes of this "POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST" section, shall mean, collectively, The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., the Investment Adviser and their affiliates, directors, partners, trustees, managers, members, officers and employees) is a worldwide, full-service investment banking, broker-dealer, asset management and financial services organization and a major participant in global financial markets. As such, it provides a wide range of financial services to a substantial and diversified client base that includes corporations, financial institutions, governments and individuals. Goldman Sachs acts as broker-dealer, investment adviser, investment banker, underwriter, research provider, administrator, financier, adviser, market maker, trader, prime broker, derivatives dealer, clearing agent, lender, counterparty, agent, principal, distributor, investor or in other commercial capacities for accounts or companies (including Fund portfolio companies) or affiliated or unaffiliated investment funds (including pooled investment vehicles and private funds). In those and other capacities, Goldman Sachs advises and deals with clients and third parties in all markets and transactions and purchases, sells, holds and recommends a broad array of investments, including securities, derivatives, loans, commodities, currencies, credit default swaps, indices, baskets and other financial instruments and products, for its own account and for the accounts of clients and of its personnel. In addition, Goldman Sachs has direct and indirect interests in the global fixed income, currency, commodity, equities, bank loan and other markets. In certain cases, the Investment Adviser causes the Funds to invest in products and strategies sponsored, managed or advised by Goldman Sachs or in which Goldman Sachs has an interest, either directly or indirectly, or otherwise restricts the Funds from making such investments, as further described herein. In this regard, there are instances when Goldman Sachs' activities and dealings with other clients and third parties affect the Funds in ways that disadvantage the Funds and/or benefit Goldman Sachs or other Accounts.

In addition, the Investment Adviser's activities on behalf of certain other entities that are not investment advisory clients of the Investment Adviser create conflicts of interest between such entities, on the one hand, and Accounts (including the Funds), on the other hand, that are the same as or similar to the conflicts that arise between the Funds and other Accounts, as described herein. In managing conflicts of interest that arise as a result of the foregoing, the Investment Adviser generally will be subject to fiduciary requirements. For purposes of this "POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST" section, "Funds" shall mean, collectively, the Funds and any of the other Goldman Sachs Funds, "Indexes" shall mean, collectively, stock market and other indexes that the Investment Adviser and/or its affiliates develop, own or operate and "Accounts" shall mean Goldman Sachs' own accounts, accounts in which personnel of Goldman Sachs have an interest, accounts of Goldman Sachs' clients, including separately managed accounts (or separate accounts), and investment vehicles that Goldman Sachs sponsors, manages or advises, including the Funds.

The conflicts herein do not purport to be a complete list or explanation of the conflicts associated with the financial or other interests the Investment Adviser or Goldman Sachs may have now or in the future. Additional information about potential conflicts of interest regarding the Investment Adviser and Goldman Sachs is set forth in the Investment Adviser's Form ADV. A copy of Part 1 and Part 2A of the Investment Adviser's Form ADV is available on the SEC's website (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov).

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**The Sale of Fund Shares and the Allocation of Investment Opportunities** 

*Sales Incentives and Related Conflicts Arising from Goldman Sachs' Financial and Other Relationships with Intermediaries* 

Goldman Sachs and its personnel, including employees of the Investment Adviser, receive benefits and earn fees and compensation for services provided to Accounts (including the Funds) and in connection with the distribution of the Funds. Any such fees and compensation are generally paid directly or indirectly out of the fees payable to the Investment Adviser in connection with the management of such Accounts (including the Funds). Moreover, Goldman Sachs and its personnel, including employees of the Investment Adviser, have relationships (both involving and not involving the Funds, and including without limitation placement, brokerage, advisory and board relationships) with distributors, consultants and others who recommend, or engage in transactions with or for, the Funds. Such distributors, consultants and other parties may receive compensation from Goldman Sachs or the Funds in connection with such relationships. As a result of these relationships, distributors, consultants and other parties have conflicts that create incentives for them to promote the Funds.

To the extent permitted by applicable law, Goldman Sachs and the Funds have in the past made, and may in the future make, payments to authorized dealers and other financial intermediaries and to salespersons to promote the Funds. These payments may be made out of Goldman Sachs' assets or amounts payable to Goldman Sachs. These payments create an incentive for such persons to highlight, feature or recommend the Funds.

*Allocation of Investment Opportunities Among the Funds and Other Accounts* 

The Investment Adviser manages or advises multiple Accounts (including Accounts in which Goldman Sachs and its personnel have an interest) that have investment objectives that are the same or similar to the Funds and that seek to make or sell investments in the same securities or other instruments, sectors or strategies as the Funds. This creates potential conflicts, particularly in circumstances where the availability or liquidity of such investment opportunities is limited (e.g., in local and emerging markets, high yield securities, fixed income securities, direct loan originations, regulated industries, small capitalization, direct or indirect investments in private investment funds, investments in master limited partnerships in the oil and gas industry, initial public offerings/new issues and privately-issued debt securities).

Accounts (including the Funds) may invest in other Accounts (including the Funds) at or near the establishment of such Accounts, which may facilitate the Accounts achieving a specified size or scale. Conversely, Accounts (including the Funds) may also invest in other Accounts (including the Funds) that are near the end of their life and investment by Accounts (including the Funds) may allow such products to continue in operation.

The Investment Adviser does not receive performance-based compensation in respect of its investment management activities on behalf of the Funds, but may simultaneously manage Accounts for which the Investment Adviser receives greater fees or other compensation (including performance-based fees or allocations) than it receives in respect of the Funds. The simultaneous management of Accounts that pay greater fees or other compensation and the Funds creates a conflict of interest as the Investment Adviser has an incentive to favor Accounts with the potential to receive greater fees when allocating resources, services, functions or investment opportunities among Accounts. For instance, the Investment Adviser will be faced with a conflict of interest when allocating scarce investment opportunities given the possibly greater fees from Accounts that pay performance-based fees.

To address these potential conflicts, the Investment Adviser has developed allocation policies and procedures that provide that the Investment Adviser's personnel making portfolio decisions for Accounts will make investment decisions for, and allocate investment opportunities among, such Accounts consistent with the Investment Adviser's fiduciary obligations. However, the availability, amount, timing, structuring or terms of an investment available to the Funds differ from, and performance may be lower than, the investments and performance of other Accounts in certain cases. In addition, these policies and procedures may result in the pro rata allocation (on a basis determined by the Investment Adviser) of limited opportunities across eligible Accounts managed by a particular portfolio management team, but in other cases such allocation may not be pro rata. Furthermore, certain investment opportunities sourced by the Investment Adviser, or Goldman Sachs businesses or divisions outside of the Investment Adviser, may be allocated to Goldman Sachs for its own account or investment vehicles organized to facilitate investment by its current or former directors, partners, trustees, managers, members, officers, employees, and their families and related entities, including employee benefit plans in which they participate, and current consultants, and not to Accounts. See Item 11 ("Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal Trading— Participation or Interest in Client Transactions—Certain Effects of the Activities of Goldman Sachs and Advisory Accounts") of the Investment Adviser's Form ADV.

Allocation-related decisions for the Funds and other Accounts are made by reference to one or more factors. Factors may include: the date of inception of the Account; the Account's portfolio and its investment horizons and objectives (including with respect to portfolio construction and target returns); the risk profile of the investment; guidelines and restrictions (including legal and regulatory restrictions affecting certain Accounts or affecting holdings across Accounts); client instructions; adverse effects of timing on other Accounts or the Investment Adviser potentially participating in the investment opportunity; strategic fit and other portfolio management considerations, including different desired levels of exposure to certain strategies; the expected future capacity of the Funds and the applicable Accounts; limits on the Investment Adviser's brokerage discretion; cash and liquidity needs and other considerations; anticipated magnitude of the overall investment program for the then current year and any changes in the rate at which the program is carried out; the availability (or lack thereof) of other appropriate or substantially similar investment opportunities; the opportunity to invest in different layers in the capital structure of a company; differences in benchmark factors and hedging strategies among Accounts; the Investment Adviser's perception of a potential co-investment party's interest; and the source of the investment opportunity. Suitability considerations, reputational matters and other considerations may also be considered.

In a case in which one or more Accounts are intended to be the Investment Adviser's primary investment vehicles focused on, or to receive priority with respect to, a particular trading strategy ("Primary Vehicles") (as determined in the Investment Adviser's discretion, and including investments sourced by or available from the Investment Adviser or affiliates of the Investment Adviser), other Accounts (including the Funds) may not have access to such strategy or may have more limited access than would otherwise be the case. For example, access to such strategies may only be available to certain Accounts through an investment in a Primary Vehicle, which investment would result in additional management fees and/or

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performance-based compensation payable to the Investment Adviser. To the extent that such Accounts are managed by areas of Goldman Sachs other than the Investment Adviser, such Accounts will not be subject to the Investment Adviser's allocation policies. Investments by such Accounts may reduce or eliminate the availability of investment opportunities to, or otherwise adversely affect, the Fund. Furthermore, in cases in which one or more Accounts are intended to be the Investment Adviser's primary investment vehicles focused on, or receive priority with respect to, a particular trading strategy or type of investment, such Accounts have specific policies or guidelines with respect to Accounts or other persons receiving the opportunity to invest alongside such Accounts with respect to one or more investments ("Co-Investment Opportunities"). As a result, certain Accounts or other persons will receive allocations to, or rights to invest in, Co-Investment Opportunities that are not available generally to the Funds.

In addition, in some cases the Investment Adviser makes investment recommendations to Accounts that make investment decisions independently of the Investment Adviser. In circumstances in which there is limited availability of an investment opportunity, if such Accounts invest in the investment opportunity at the same time as, or prior to, a Fund, the availability of the investment opportunity for the Fund will be reduced irrespective of the Investment Adviser's policies regarding allocations of investments.

The Investment Adviser, from time to time, develops and implements new trading strategies or seeks to participate in new trading strategies and investment opportunities. These strategies and opportunities are not employed in all Accounts or employed pro rata among Accounts where they are used, even if the strategy or opportunity is consistent with the objectives of such Accounts. Further, a trading strategy employed for a Fund that is similar to, or the same as, that of another Account may be implemented differently, sometimes to a material extent. For example, a Fund may invest in different securities or other assets, or invest in the same securities and other assets but in different proportions, than another Account with the same or similar trading strategy. The implementation of the Fund's trading strategy depends on a variety of factors, including the portfolio managers involved in managing the trading strategy for the Account, the time difference associated with the location of different portfolio management teams, and the factors described above and in Item 6 ("PERFORMANCE-BASED FEES AND SIDE-BY-SIDE MANAGEMENT—Side-by-Side Management of Advisory Accounts; Allocation of Opportunities") of the Investment Adviser's Form ADV.

During periods of unusual market conditions, the Investment Adviser may deviate from its normal trade allocation practices. For example, this may occur with respect to the management of unlevered and/or long-only Accounts that are typically managed on a side-by-side basis with levered and/or long-short Accounts.

The Investment Adviser and the Funds may receive notice of, or offers to participate in, investment opportunities from third parties for various reasons. The Investment Adviser in its sole discretion will determine whether a Fund will participate in any such investment opportunities and investors should not expect that the Fund will participate in any such investment opportunities unless the opportunities are received pursuant to contractual requirements, such as preemptive rights or rights offerings, under the terms of the Fund's investments. Some or all Funds may, from time to time, be offered investment opportunities that are made available through Goldman Sachs businesses outside of the Investment Adviser, including, for example, interests in real estate and other private investments. In this regard, a conflict of interest exists to the extent that Goldman Sachs controls or otherwise influences the terms and pricing of such investments and/or retains other benefits in connection therewith. However, Goldman Sachs businesses outside of the Investment Adviser are under no general obligation or other duty to provide investment opportunities to the Funds, and generally are not expected to do so. Further, opportunities sourced within particular portfolio management teams within the Investment Adviser may not be allocated to Accounts (including the Funds) managed by such teams or by other teams. Opportunities not allocated (or not fully allocated) to the Funds or other Accounts managed by the Investment Adviser may be undertaken by Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser), including for Accounts, or made available to other Accounts or third parties, and the Funds will not receive any compensation related to such opportunities. Even in the case of an opportunity received by a Fund pursuant to contractual requirements, the Investment Adviser may decide in its discretion that the Fund will not participate in such opportunity for portfolio construction reasons, due to the investment objective and strategies of such Fund, or because the Investment Adviser determines that participation would not be appropriate for such Fund for other reasons, in which case the Investment Adviser may allocate such opportunity to another Account. Additional information about the Investment Adviser's allocation policies is set forth in Item 6 ("PERFORMANCE-BASED FEES AND SIDE-BY-SIDE MANAGEMENT—Side-by-Side Management of Advisory Accounts; Allocation of Opportunities") of the Investment Adviser's Form ADV.

As a result of the various considerations above, there will be cases in which certain Accounts (including Accounts in which Goldman Sachs and personnel of Goldman Sachs have an interest) receive an allocation of an investment opportunity (including an investment opportunity sourced by or available from the Investment Adviser or affiliates of the Investment Adviser) at times that the Funds do not, or when the Funds receive an allocation of such opportunities but on different terms than other Accounts (which may be less favorable). In addition, due to regulatory or other considerations, the receipt of an investment opportunity by certain Funds may restrict or limit the ability of other Funds to receive an allocation of the same opportunity. The application of these considerations may cause differences in the performance of different Accounts that employ strategies the same or similar to those of the Funds.

Certain Accounts may be unable to participate directly in particular types of investment opportunities (including those sourced by or available from the Investment Adviser or affiliates of the Investment Adviser), such as certain types of loans, due to the nature and/or size of the Accounts or limitations or prohibitions in applicable loan or transaction documentation. In addition, certain Accounts may be limited due to the timing or specific nature of the particular investment opportunity.

Multiple Accounts (including the Funds) may participate in a particular investment or incur expenses applicable in connection with the operation or management of the Accounts, or otherwise may be subject to costs or expenses that are allocable to more than one Account (which may include, without limitation, research expenses, technology expenses, valuation agent expenses, expenses relating to participation in bondholder groups, restructurings, class actions and other litigation, and insurance premiums). The Investment Adviser may allocate investment-related and other expenses on a pro rata or different basis. Certain Accounts are, by their terms or by determination of the Investment Adviser, on a case-by-case basis, not responsible for their share of such expenses, and, in addition, the Investment Adviser has agreed with certain Accounts to cap the amount of expenses (or the amount of certain types of expenses) borne by such Accounts, which results in such Accounts not bearing the full share of expenses

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they would otherwise have borne as described above. As a result, certain Accounts are responsible for bearing a different or greater amount of expenses, while other Accounts do not bear any, or do not bear their full share, of such expenses. The Investment Adviser may bear any such expenses on behalf of certain Accounts and not for others, as it determines in its sole discretion. If the Investment Adviser bears expenses on behalf of an Account and the Account subsequently receives reimbursement for such expenses, the Investment Adviser will generally be entitled to receive all or a portion of the amount of such reimbursement, up to the amount that was borne by the Investment Adviser on behalf of such Account.

*Goldman Sachs' Financial and Other Interests May Incentivize Goldman Sachs to Promote the Sale of Fund Shares* 

Goldman Sachs and its personnel have interests in promoting sales of Fund shares, and the compensation from such sales may be greater than the compensation relating to sales of interests in other Accounts. Therefore, Goldman Sachs and its personnel may have a financial interest in promoting Fund shares over interests in other Accounts.

**Management of the Funds by the Investment Adviser** 

***Considerations Relating to Information Held by Goldman Sachs***

Goldman Sachs has established certain information barriers and other policies designed to address the sharing of information between different businesses within Goldman Sachs. As a result of information barriers, the Investment Adviser generally will not have access, or will have limited access, to certain information and personnel, including senior personnel, in other areas of Goldman Sachs, and generally will not manage the Funds with the benefit of information held by such other areas. Goldman Sachs, due to its access to and knowledge of funds, markets and securities based on its prime brokerage and other businesses, will from time to time make decisions based on information or take (or refrain from taking) actions with respect to interests in investments of the kind held (directly or indirectly) by the Funds in a manner that is adverse to the Funds, and will not have any obligation or other duty to share information with the Investment Adviser.

In limited circumstances, however, including for purposes of managing business and reputational risk, and subject to policies and procedures, personnel on one side of an information barrier may have access to information and personnel on the other side of the information barrier through "wall crossings." The Investment Adviser faces conflicts of interest in determining whether to engage in such wall crossings. In addition, Goldman Sachs or the Investment Adviser may determine to move certain personnel, businesses, or business units from one side of an information barrier to the other side of the information barrier. In connection therewith, Goldman Sachs personnel, businesses, and business units that were moved will no longer have access to the personnel, businesses and business units on the side of the information barrier from which they were moved.

Information obtained in connection with such wall crossings and changes to information barriers may limit or restrict the ability of the Investment Adviser to engage in or otherwise effect transactions on behalf of the Funds (including purchasing or selling securities that the Investment Adviser may otherwise have purchased or sold for an Account in the absence of a wall crossing or change to an information barrier). In managing conflicts of interest that arise as a result of the foregoing, the Investment Adviser generally will be subject to fiduciary requirements. Information barriers also exist between certain businesses within the Investment Adviser. The conflicts described herein with respect to information barriers and otherwise with respect to Goldman Sachs and the Investment Adviser also apply to the asset management business of Goldman Sachs Asset & Wealth Management (of which the Investment Adviser is a part), as well as to the other businesses within Goldman Sachs Asset & Wealth Management (including the Investment Adviser). In addition, there may also be circumstances in which, as a result of information held by certain portfolio management teams in the Investment Adviser, the Investment Adviser limits an activity or transaction for a Fund, including if the Fund is managed by a portfolio management team other than the team holding such information.

In addition, regardless of the existence of information barriers, Goldman Sachs will not have any obligation or other duty to make available for the benefit of the Funds any information regarding Goldman Sachs' trading activities, strategies or views, or the activities, strategies or views used for other Accounts. Furthermore, to the extent that the Investment Adviser has developed fundamental analysis and proprietary technical models or other information, Goldman Sachs and its personnel, or other parts of the Investment Adviser, will not be under any obligation or other duty to share certain information with the Investment Adviser or personnel involved in decision-making for Accounts (including the Funds), and the Funds may make investment decisions that differ from those they would have made if Goldman Sachs had provided such information, and be disadvantaged as a result thereof.

Different areas of the Investment Adviser and Goldman Sachs take views, and make decisions or recommendations, that are different than those of other areas of the Investment Adviser and Goldman Sachs. Different portfolio management teams within the Investment Adviser make decisions based on information or take (or refrain from taking) actions with respect to Accounts they advise in a manner different than or adverse to the Funds. Such teams do not share information with the Funds' portfolio management teams, including as a result of certain information barriers and other policies, and will not have any obligation or other duty to do so.

Goldman Sachs operates a business known as Prime Services, which provides prime brokerage, administrative and other services to clients that from time to time involve investment funds (including pooled investment vehicles and private funds) in which one or more Accounts invest ("Underlying Funds") or markets and securities in which Accounts invest. Prime Services and other parts of Goldman Sachs have broad access to information regarding the current status of certain markets, investments and funds and detailed information about fund operators that is not available to the Investment Adviser. In addition, Goldman Sachs from time to time acts as a prime broker to one or more Underlying Funds, in which case Goldman Sachs will have information concerning the investments and transactions of such Underlying Funds that is not available to the Investment Adviser. As a result of these and other activities, parts of Goldman Sachs will possess information in respect of markets, investments, investment advisers that are affiliated or unaffiliated with Goldman Sachs and Underlying Funds, which, if known to the Investment Adviser, might cause the Investment Adviser to seek to dispose of, retain or increase interests in investments held by Accounts or acquire certain positions on behalf of Accounts, or take other actions. Goldman Sachs will be under no obligation or other duty to make any such information available to the Investment Adviser or personnel involved in decision- making for Accounts (including the Funds).

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***Valuation of the Funds' Investments***

The Investment Adviser performs certain valuation services related to securities and assets held in the Funds. The Investment Adviser performs such valuation services in accordance with its valuation policies. The Investment Adviser may value an identical asset differently than Goldman Sachs, or another division or unit within Goldman Sachs values the asset, including because Goldman Sachs, or such other division or unit, has information or uses valuation techniques and models that it does not share with, or that are different than those of, the Investment Adviser. This is particularly the case in respect of difficult-to-value assets. The Investment Adviser may also value an identical asset differently in different Accounts, including because different Accounts are subject to different valuation guidelines pursuant to their respective governing agreements (e.g., in connection with certain regulatory restrictions applicable to different Accounts). In addition, there may be significant differences in the treatment of the same asset by the Investment Adviser and Goldman Sachs, other divisions or units of Goldman Sachs, and/or among Accounts (e.g., with respect to an asset that is a loan, there can be differences when it is determined that such loan is deemed to be on non-accrual status or in default). Differences in valuation should be expected where different third-party vendors are hired to perform valuation functions for the Accounts, the Accounts are managed or advised by different portfolio management teams within the Investment Adviser that employ different valuation policies or procedures, or otherwise. The Investment Adviser will face a conflict with respect to valuations generally because of their effect on the Investment Adviser's fees and other compensation. Furthermore, the application of particular valuation policies with respect to the Funds will, under certain circumstances, result in improved performance of the Funds or enable the Investment Adviser to more easily track the performance of an Index than might have been the case had the Investment Adviser applied different valuation policies.

***Data and Information Sharing***

Accounts, the Investment Adviser, and/or their respective affiliates, portfolio companies and other investments (collectively, the "Data Parties") often possess data and information that they may utilize for various purposes and which they would not otherwise possess in the ordinary course of their businesses. For example, information relating to business operations, trends, budgets, customers or users, assets, funding and other metrics that the Data Parties possess or acquire through their management of Accounts and/or their own businesses and investment activities may be used by Goldman Sachs to identify and/or evaluate potential investments for Accounts and to facilitate the management of Accounts, including through operational improvements. Conversely, Goldman Sachs may use data and information that it has or acquires in connection with an Account's activities for the benefit of Goldman Sachs' own businesses and investment activities and their portfolio companies and other investments.

From time to time, Goldman Sachs may commission third-party research, at an Account's expense, in connection with the diligence of an investment opportunity or in connection with its management of a portfolio investment, and such research is expected to subsequently be available to other investment vehicles (and such persons will generally not be required to compensate an Account for the benefit they receive from such research). Such benefits could be material and Goldman Sachs will have no duty, contractual, fiduciary or otherwise, not to use such information in connection with the business and investment activities of itself, Accounts and/or their portfolio companies and other investments.

Furthermore, except for contractual obligations to third parties to maintain confidentiality of certain information, regulatory limitations on the use of material nonpublic information, and the Data Parties' information walls, Goldman Sachs is generally free to use data and information from an Account's activities to assist in the pursuit of its various other interests and activities, including to trade for the benefit of Goldman Sachs or another Account. Accounts and other sources of such data and information may not receive any financial or other benefit from having provided such data and information to Goldman Sachs. The potential ability to monetize such data and information may create incentives for Goldman Sachs to cause an Account to invest in entities and companies with a significant amount of data that it might not otherwise have invested in or on terms less favorable than it otherwise would have sought to obtain.

***Goldman Sachs' and the Investment Adviser's Activities on Behalf of Other Accounts***

The Investment Adviser provides advisory services to the Funds. Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser), the clients it advises, and its personnel have interests in and advise Accounts that have investment objectives or portfolios similar to, related to or opposed to those of the Funds. Goldman Sachs may receive greater fees or other compensation (including performance-based fees) from such Accounts than it does from the Funds, in which case Goldman Sachs is incentivized to favor such Accounts. In addition, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser), the clients it advises, and its personnel may engage (or consider engaging) in commercial arrangements or transactions with Accounts, and/or compete for commercial arrangements or transactions in the same types of companies, assets securities and other instruments, as the Funds. Such arrangements, transactions or investments adversely affect such Funds by, for example, limiting their ability to engage in such activity or affecting the pricing or terms of such arrangements, transactions or investments. Moreover, a particular Fund on the one hand, and Goldman Sachs or other Accounts, on the other hand, may vote differently on or take or refrain from taking different actions with respect to the same security, which are disadvantageous to the Fund. Additionally, as described below, the Investment Adviser faces conflicts of interest arising out of Goldman Sachs' relationships and business dealings in connection with decisions to take or refrain from taking certain actions on behalf of Accounts when doing so would be adverse to Goldman Sachs' relationships or other business dealings with such parties.

Transactions by, advice to and activities of Accounts (including with respect to investment decisions, voting and the enforcement of rights) may involve the same or related companies, securities or other assets or instruments as those in which the Funds invest, and it should be expected that such Accounts engage in a strategy while a Fund is undertaking the same or a differing strategy, any of which could directly or indirectly disadvantage the Fund (including its ability to engage in a transaction or other activities).

In various circumstances, different Accounts make investments as part of a single transaction, including in situations in which multiple Accounts comprise a single "fund family" and situations in which Accounts make investments on a side-by-side basis on the same terms and conditions. In these circumstances, the participating Accounts may have different interests, such as different investment timing horizons, including, for example, when certain Accounts are closed-end vehicles or otherwise have a limited investment period, while other Accounts are open-ended or otherwise have a less limited investment period. Similarly, capital contribution and other obligations associated with an investment may extend

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beyond a particular Account's investment period or expected term. In such circumstances, the Investment Adviser may negotiate the terms of an investment on a collective basis and such terms may not be as favorable, from the perspective of a particular Account, than if the Account had been the sole participating Account. Terms required by one Account (for example, due to regulatory requirements) when it invests may negatively impact the ability of another Account to consummate the investment or may adversely alter its terms. Similarly, one Account may seek to dispose of an investment at a time when it would be desirable for another Account to continue to hold such investment (or vice versa). Depending on the structure of the applicable investment, disposing of a portion of the investment may be impractical or costly, or may have adverse effects on the rights of Accounts continuing to hold the investment. As a result, the Investment Adviser may be incentivized to accelerate or delay the sale, disposition or restructuring of an investment, which may have an adverse effect on certain of the Accounts participating in the transaction. Further, a particular Account that holds a minority interest in a portfolio company in which another Account owns a majority interest could be adversely affected in the context of restructuring and/or recapitalization transactions with respect to such portfolio company. When making an investment decision with respect to an investment in which multiple Accounts are invested, Goldman Sachs may primarily take into account the specific effect such investment decision will have on the Accounts as a whole, and not based on the best interests of any particular Account. In the event the Investment Adviser makes different investment decisions (including with respect to the timing of dispositions, additional investments, and other decisions) for Funds with respect to an investment in a common portfolio company, such Funds could have different rates of return and profit and loss on the investment or otherwise be adversely affected.

In addition, Goldman Sachs may be engaged to provide advice to an Account that is considering entering into a transaction with a Fund, and Goldman Sachs may advise the Account not to pursue the transaction with the Fund, or otherwise in connection with a potential transaction provide advice to the Account that would be adverse to the Fund. Additionally, if a Fund buys a security and an Account establishes a short position in that same security or in similar securities, such short position may result in the impairment of the price of the security that the Fund holds or could be designed to profit from a decline in the price of the security. A Fund could similarly be adversely impacted if it establishes a short position, following which an Account takes a long position in the same security or in similar securities.

Furthermore, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) may make filings in connection with a shareholder class action lawsuit or similar matter involving a particular security on behalf of an Account (including a Fund), but not on behalf of a different Account (including a Fund) that holds or held the same security, or that is invested in or has extended credit to different parts of the capital structure of the same issuer. Accounts may also have different rights in respect of an investment with the same issuer, or invest in different classes of the same issuer that have different rights, including, without limitation, with respect to liquidity. The determination to exercise such rights by the Investment Adviser on behalf of such other Accounts may have an adverse effect on the Funds.

The Funds are expected to transact with a variety of counterparties. Some of these counterparties will also engage in transactions with other Accounts managed by the Investment Adviser or another Goldman Sachs entity or business unit. For example, a Fund may directly or indirectly purchase assets from a counterparty at the same time the counterparty (or an affiliate thereof) is also negotiating to purchase different assets from another Account. This creates potential conflicts of interest, particularly with respect to the terms and purchase prices of the sales. For example, Goldman Sachs may receive fees or other compensation in connection with the sale of assets by an Account to a counterparty, which creates an incentive to negotiate a higher purchase price for those assets in a separate transaction where the Fund is a purchaser.

Similarly, a particular Fund may dispose of one or more assets through a block sale that includes assets held by other Accounts or as part of a series of transactions in which assets from multiple Accounts are sold to the same purchaser. This creates potential conflicts of interest, particularly with regard to the determination of the purchase prices of the applicable assets. For example, Goldman Sachs may receive greater fees or other compensation (including performance-based fees) in connection with the sale of assets in other Accounts that participate in a block sale as compared to the compensation that Goldman Sachs receives in connection with the sale of assets by the particular Fund. There can be no assurance that the compensation received by the particular Fund as a result of participating in a block sale would be greater than the compensation that the particular Fund would receive if its assets were sold as part of a standalone transaction. Any such transaction will be effected in accordance with the Investment Adviser's fiduciary obligations.

Shareholders may be offered (or may already have) access to advisory services through several different Goldman Sachs businesses (including through Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and the Investment Adviser). Different advisory businesses within Goldman Sachs manage Accounts according to different strategies and apply different criteria to the same or similar strategies and have differing investment views in respect of an issuer or a security or other investment. Similarly, within the Investment Adviser, certain investment teams or portfolio managers can have differing or opposite investment views in respect of an issuer or a security, and as a result some or all of the positions a Fund's investment team or portfolio managers take in respect of the Fund will be inconsistent with, or adversely affected by, the interests and activities of the Accounts advised by other investment teams or portfolio managers of the Investment Adviser. Research, analyses or viewpoints will be available to clients or potential clients at different times. Goldman Sachs will not have any obligation or other duty to make available to the Funds any research or analysis at any particular time or prior to its public dissemination. The Investment Adviser is responsible for making investment decisions on behalf of the Funds, and such investment decisions can differ from investment decisions or recommendations by Goldman Sachs on behalf of other Accounts. The timing of transactions entered into or recommended by Goldman Sachs, on behalf of itself or its clients, including the Funds, may negatively impact the Funds or benefit certain other Accounts. For example, if Goldman Sachs, on behalf of one or more Accounts, implements an investment decision or strategy ahead of, or contemporaneously with, or behind similar investment decisions or strategies made for the Funds (whether or not the investment decisions emanate from the same research analysis or other information), it could result, due to market impact or other factors, in liquidity constraints or in certain Funds receiving less favorable investment or trading results or incurring increased costs. Similarly, if Goldman Sachs implements an investment decision or strategy that results in a purchase (or sale) of a security for one Fund, such implementation may increase the value of such security already held by another Account (or decrease the value of such security that such other Account intends to purchase), thereby benefitting such other Account.

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Subject to applicable law, the Investment Adviser is incentivized to cause the Funds to invest in securities, bank loans or other obligations of companies affiliated with or advised by Goldman Sachs or in which Goldman Sachs or Accounts have an equity, debt or other interest, or to engage in investment transactions that may result in other Accounts being relieved of obligations or otherwise divested of investments, which may enhance the profitability of Goldman Sachs' or other Accounts' investment in and activities with respect to such companies. The Investment Adviser, in its discretion and in certain circumstances, recommends that certain Funds have ongoing business dealings, arrangements or agreements with persons who are (i) former employees of Goldman Sachs, (ii) affiliates or other portfolio companies of Goldman Sachs or other Accounts, (iii) Goldman Sachs' employees' family members and/or relatives and/or certain of their portfolio companies or (iv) persons otherwise associated with an investor in an Account or a portfolio company or service provider of Goldman Sachs or an Account. The Funds may bear, directly or indirectly, the costs of such dealings, arrangements or agreements.

These recommendations, and recommendations relating to continuing any such dealings, arrangements or agreements, pose conflicts of interest and may be based on differing incentives due to Goldman Sachs' relationships with such persons. In particular, when acting on behalf of, and making decisions for, Accounts, the Investment Adviser may take into account Goldman Sachs' interests in maintaining its relationships and business dealings with such persons. As a result, the Investment Adviser faces conflicts of interest arising out of Goldman Sachs' relationships and business dealings in connection with decisions to take or refrain from taking certain actions on behalf of Accounts when doing so would be adverse to Goldman Sachs' relationships or other business dealings with such parties.

When the Investment Adviser wishes to place an order for different types of Accounts (including the Funds) for which aggregation is not practicable, the Investment Adviser may use a trade sequencing and rotation policy to determine which type of Account is to be traded first. Under this policy, each portfolio management team may determine the length of its trade rotation period and the sequencing schedule for different categories of clients within this period provided that the trading periods and these sequencing schedules are designed to be reasonable. Within a given trading period, the sequencing schedule establishes when and how frequently a given client category will trade first in the order of rotation. The Investment Adviser may deviate from the predetermined sequencing schedule under certain circumstances, and the Investment Adviser's trade sequencing and rotation policy may be amended, modified or supplemented at any time without prior notice to clients.

***Potential Conflicts Relating to Follow-On Investments***

From time to time, the Investment Adviser provides opportunities to Accounts (including potentially the Funds) to make investments in companies in which certain Accounts have already invested. Such follow-on investments can create conflicts of interest, such as the determination of the terms of the new investment and the allocation of such opportunities among Accounts (including the Funds). Follow-on investment opportunities may be available to the Funds notwithstanding that the Funds have no existing investment in the issuer, resulting in the assets of the Funds potentially providing value to, or otherwise supporting the investments of, other Accounts. Accounts (including the Funds) may also participate in releveraging, recapitalization, and similar transactions involving companies in which other Accounts have invested or will invest. Conflicts of interest in these and other transactions arise between Accounts (including the Funds) with existing investments in a company or Accounts liquidating their investment in the company, on the one hand, and Accounts making subsequent investments in the company, on the other hand, which have opposing interests regarding pricing and other terms. In addition, the subsequent investments may dilute or otherwise adversely affect the interests of the previously-invested Accounts (including the Funds).

***Diverse Interests of Shareholders***

It should be expected that the various types of investors in and beneficiaries of the Funds, including to the extent applicable the Investment Adviser and its affiliates, have conflicting investment, tax and other interests with respect to their interests in the Funds. When considering a potential investment for a Fund, the Investment Adviser will generally consider the investment objectives of the Fund, not the investment objectives of any particular investor or beneficiary. The Investment Adviser makes decisions, including with respect to tax matters, from time to time that will be more beneficial to one type of investor or beneficiary than another, or to the Investment Adviser and its affiliates than to investors or beneficiaries unaffiliated with the Investment Adviser. In addition, Goldman Sachs faces certain tax risks based on positions taken by the Funds, including as a withholding agent. Goldman Sachs reserves the right on behalf of itself and its affiliates to take actions adverse to the Funds or other Accounts in these circumstances, including withholding amounts to cover actual or potential tax liabilities.

***Selection of Service Providers***

The Funds expect to engage service providers (including attorneys and consultants) that in certain cases also provide services to Goldman Sachs and other Accounts. In addition, certain service providers to the Investment Adviser or Funds are also portfolio companies or other affiliates of the Investment Adviser or other Accounts (for example, a portfolio company of an Account may retain a portfolio company of another Account). To the extent it is involved in such selection, the Investment Adviser intends to select these service providers based on a number of factors, including expertise and experience, knowledge of related or similar products, quality of service, reputation in the marketplace, relationships with the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs or others, and price. These service providers may have business, financial, or other relationships with Goldman Sachs (including its personnel), which may influence the Investment Adviser's selection of these service providers for the Funds. In such circumstances, there is a conflict of interest between Goldman Sachs (acting on behalf of the Funds) and the Funds or between Funds if the Funds determine not to engage or continue to engage these service providers.

The Investment Adviser may, in its sole discretion, determine to provide, or engage or recommend an affiliate of the Investment Adviser to provide, certain services, including, but not limited to, services such as internal legal and accounting services, to the Funds, instead of engaging or recommending one or more third parties to provide such services. Subject to the governance requirements of a particular Fund and applicable law, the Investment Adviser or its affiliates, as applicable, will receive compensation in connection with the provision of such services. As a result, the Investment Adviser faces a conflict of interest when selecting or recommending service providers for the Funds. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the selection or recommendation of service providers for the Funds will be conducted in accordance with the Investment Adviser's fiduciary obligations

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to the Funds. The service providers selected or recommended by the Investment Adviser may charge different rates to different recipients based on the specific services provided, the personnel providing the services, the complexity of the services provided or other factors. As a result, the rates paid with respect to these service providers by a Fund, on the one hand, may be more or less favorable than the rates paid by Goldman Sachs, including the Investment Adviser, on the other hand. In addition, the rates paid by the Investment Adviser or the Funds, on the one hand, may be more or less favorable than the rates paid by other parts of Goldman Sachs or Accounts managed by other parts of Goldman Sachs, on the other hand. Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser), its personnel, and/or Accounts may hold investments in companies that provide services to entities in which the Funds invest generally, and, subject to applicable law, the Investment Adviser may refer or introduce such companies' services to entities that have issued securities held by the Funds.

***Investments in Goldman Sachs Funds***

To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Funds will, from time to time invest in money market and/or other funds sponsored, managed or advised by Goldman Sachs. In connection with any such investments, a Fund, to the extent permitted by the Act, will pay all advisory, administrative or Rule 12b-1 fees applicable to the investment. To the extent consistent with applicable law, certain Funds that invest in other funds sponsored, managed or advised by Goldman Sachs pay advisory fees to the Investment Adviser that are not reduced by any fees payable by such other funds to Goldman Sachs as manager of such other funds (i.e., there will be "double fees" involved in making any such investment, which would not arise in connection with the direct allocation of assets by investors in the Funds to such other funds). In such circumstances, as well as in all other circumstances in which Goldman Sachs receives any fees or other compensation in any form relating to the provision of services, no accounting or repayment to the Funds will be required.

The Investment Adviser, from time to time, manages Accounts (including the Funds), which may, individually or in the aggregate, own a substantial amount of the Funds. Further, the Investment Adviser, its affiliates, or another entity (i.e., a seed investor) may invest in the Funds at or near the establishment of such Funds, which may facilitate the Funds achieving a specified size or scale. The Investment Adviser and/or its affiliates may make payments to an investor that contributes seed capital to a Fund. Such payments may continue for a specified period of time and/or until a specified dollar amount is reached, and will be made from the assets of the Investment Adviser and/or such affiliates (and not the applicable Fund). Seed investors may contribute all or a majority of the assets in the Fund. There is a risk that such seed investors may redeem their investments in the Fund, particularly after payments from the Investment Adviser and/or its affiliates have ceased. Such redemptions could have a significant negative impact on the Fund, including on its liquidity and the market price of its shares.

***Goldman Sachs May In-Source or Outsource***

Subject to applicable law, Goldman Sachs, including the Investment Adviser, may from time to time and without notice to investors in-source or outsource certain processes or functions in connection with a variety of services that it provides to the Funds in its administrative or other capacities. Depending upon the nature of the services and subject to the governing documents of the Fund, fees associated with in-sourced or outsourced services will be borne by a Fund or by the Investment Adviser. Such in-sourcing or outsourcing may give rise to additional conflicts of interest.

***Distributions of Assets Other Than Cash***

With respect to redemptions from the Funds, the Funds will, in certain circumstances, have discretion to decide whether to permit or limit redemptions and whether to make distributions in connection with redemptions in the form of securities or other assets, and in such case, the composition of such distributions. In making such decisions, the Investment Adviser will sometimes have a potentially conflicting division of loyalties and responsibilities to redeeming investors and remaining investors.

**Goldman Sachs Will Act in a Capacity Other Than Investment Adviser to the Funds** 

***Investments in and Advice Regarding Different Parts of an Issuer's Capital Structure***

In some cases, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) or Accounts, on the one hand, and the Funds, on the other hand, invest in or extend credit to the same issuer, but in different parts of the issuer's capital structure. As a result, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) or Accounts may take actions that adversely affect the Funds. In addition, in some cases, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) advises Accounts with respect to a portion of the capital structure of an issuer at the same time that a particular Account has an investment in different classes of securities of such issuer that are subordinate or senior to the securities with respect to which Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) is providing advice. Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) is able to pursue rights, provide advice or engage in other activities, or refrain from pursuing rights, providing advice or engaging in other activities, on behalf of itself or other Accounts with respect to an issuer in which the Funds have invested, and such actions (or inaction) may have a material adverse effect on the Funds.

For example, in the event that Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) or an Account holds loans, securities or other positions in the capital structure of an issuer that rank senior in preference to the holdings of a Fund in the same issuer, and the issuer experiences financial or operational challenges, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser), acting on behalf of itself or the Account, may seek a liquidation, reorganization or restructuring of the issuer that has an adverse effect on or otherwise conflicts with the interests of the Fund's holdings in the issuer. In determining its course of action, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) will not consider the interests of the particular Account. For example, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) may determine to seek a liquidation, reorganization or restructuring that causes the Fund's holdings in the issuer to be extinguished or substantially diluted, while Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) or another Account recovers some or all of the amounts due to them. In addition, in connection with any lending arrangements involving the issuer in which Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) or an Account participates, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) or the Account may seek to exercise its rights under the applicable loan agreement or other document, in a manner detrimental to the Fund. In situations in which Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) holds positions in multiple parts of the capital structure of an issuer across Accounts (including the Funds), the Investment Adviser may not pursue actions or remedies available to the Fund, as a result of legal and regulatory requirements or otherwise.

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These potential issues are examples of conflicts that Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) will face in situations in which the Funds, and Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) or other Accounts, invest in or extend credit to different parts of the capital structure of a single issuer. Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) addresses these issues based on the circumstances of particular situations. For example, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) relies on information barriers between different Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) business units or portfolio management teams. Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) in some circumstances relies on the actions of similarly situated holders of loans or securities rather than, or in connection with, taking such actions itself on behalf of the Funds.

As a result of the various conflicts and related issues described above and the fact that conflicts will not necessarily be resolved in favor of the interests of the Funds, the Funds could sustain losses during periods in which Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) and other Accounts (including Accounts sponsored, managed or advised by the Investment Adviser) achieve profits generally or with respect to particular holdings in the same issuer, or could achieve lower profits or higher losses than would have been the case had the conflicts described above not existed. It should be expected that the negative effects described above will be more pronounced in connection with transactions in, or the Funds' use of, small capitalization, emerging market, distressed or less liquid strategies.

*Principal and Cross Transactions* 

When permitted by applicable law and the Investment Adviser's policies, the Investment Adviser, acting on behalf of certain Funds (for example, those employing taxable fixed income, municipal bond fixed income and structured investment strategies), may (but is under no obligation or other duty to) enter into transactions in securities and other instruments with or through Goldman Sachs or in Accounts managed by the Investment Adviser or its affiliates and cause the Funds to engage in transactions in which the Investment Adviser acts as principal on its own behalf (principal transactions), advises both sides of a transaction (cross transactions) and acts as broker for, and receives a commission from, the Funds on one side of a transaction and a brokerage account on the other side of the transaction (agency cross transactions). There are potential conflicts of interest, regulatory issues or restrictions contained in the Investment Adviser's internal policies relating to these transactions which could limit the Investment Adviser's determination and/or ability to engage in these transactions for Accounts (including the Funds). In certain circumstances such as when Goldman Sachs is the only or one of a few participants in a particular market or is one of the largest such participants, such limitations will eliminate or reduce the availability of certain investment opportunities to Accounts (including the Funds) or impact the price or terms on which transactions relating to such investment opportunities may be effected.

Goldman Sachs will have a potentially conflicting division of loyalties and responsibilities to the parties in such transactions. The Investment Adviser has developed policies and procedures in relation to such transactions and conflicts. Cross transactions may disproportionately benefit some Accounts relative to other Accounts, including the Funds, due to the relative amount of market savings obtained by the Accounts, and cross transactions may be effected at different prices for different Accounts due to differing legal and/or regulatory requirements applicable to such Accounts. Certain Accounts are also prohibited from participating in cross transactions, even if consent is obtained. Where principal, cross or agency cross transactions are not prohibited, such transactions will be effected in accordance with fiduciary requirements and applicable law (which include disclosure and consent).

*Goldman Sachs Acting in Multiple Commercial Capacities* 

To the extent permitted by applicable law, an issuer in which a Fund has an interest may hire Goldman Sachs to provide underwriting, merger advisory, other financial advisory, placement agency, foreign currency hedging, research, asset management services, brokerage services or other services to the issuer, including issuers whose securities are components of one or more indices, such as the Indexes, that are created and operated by Goldman Sachs. Furthermore, Goldman Sachs sponsors, manages, advises or provides services to affiliated Underlying Funds (or their personnel) in which the Funds invest. Goldman Sachs may be entitled to compensation in connection with the provision of such services and the operation of the Indexes that are tracked by the Funds, and the Funds will not be entitled to any such compensation. Goldman Sachs will have an interest in obtaining fees and other compensation in connection with such services that are favorable to Goldman Sachs, and in connection with providing such services takes commercial steps in its own interest, or advises the parties to which it is providing services, or takes other actions, any of which may have an adverse effect on a Fund. Such actions may benefit Goldman Sachs. For example, Goldman Sachs may require repayment of all or part of a loan from a company in which an Account (including a Fund) holds an interest, which could cause the company to default or be required to liquidate its assets more rapidly, which could adversely affect the value of the company and the value of the Funds invested therein. If Goldman Sachs advises a company to make changes to its capital structure, the result would be a reduction in the value or priority of a security held (directly or indirectly) by one or more Funds. In addition, underwriters, placement agents or managers of initial public offerings, including Goldman Sachs, often require the Funds who hold privately placed securities of a company to execute a lock-up agreement prior to such company's initial public offering restricting the resale of the securities for a period of time before and following the IPO. As a result, the Investment Adviser will be restricted from selling the securities in such Funds at a more favorable price. Actions taken or advised to be taken by Goldman Sachs in connection with other types of transactions may also result in adverse consequences for the Funds. Goldman Sachs faces conflicts of interest in providing and selecting services for the Funds because Goldman Sachs provides many services and has many commercial relationships with companies and affiliated and unaffiliated Underlying Funds (or their applicable personnel). Providing services to the Funds and companies (or their personnel) in which the Funds invest enhances Goldman Sachs' relationships with various parties, facilitates additional business development and enables Goldman Sachs to obtain additional business and/or generate additional revenue. Providing such services may also result in Goldman Sachs receiving substantial fees, compensation, and/or remuneration. The Funds will not be entitled to compensation related to any such benefit to businesses of Goldman Sachs. In addition, such relationships may adversely impact the Funds, including, for example, by restricting potential investment opportunities, as described below, incentivizing the Investment Adviser to take or refrain from taking certain actions on behalf of the Funds when doing so would be adverse to such business relationships, and/or influencing the Investment Adviser's selection or recommendation of certain investment products and/or strategies over others.

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Certain of Goldman Sachs' activities on behalf of its clients also restrict investment opportunities that are otherwise available to the Funds. For example, Goldman Sachs is often engaged by companies as a financial advisor, or to provide financing or other services, in connection with commercial transactions that are potential investment opportunities for the Funds. There are circumstances in which the Funds are precluded from participating in such transactions as a result of Goldman Sachs' engagement by such companies. In addition, in connection with an equity offering of securities of a portfolio company for which Goldman Sachs is acting as an underwriter, Accounts may, in certain instances, be subject to regulatory restrictions (in addition to contractual restrictions) on their ability to sell equity securities of the portfolio company for a period after completion of the offering. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to act for these companies in such circumstances, notwithstanding the potential adverse effect on the Funds. Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) also represents creditor or debtor companies in proceedings under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code (and equivalent non-U.S. bankruptcy laws) or prior to these filings. From time to time, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) serves on creditor or equity committees. It should be expected that these actions, for which Goldman Sachs may be compensated, will limit or preclude the flexibility that the Funds otherwise have to buy or sell securities issued by those companies, as well as certain other assets. Please also see "—Management of the Funds by the Investment Adviser—Considerations Relating to Information Held by Goldman Sachs" above and "—Potential Limitations and Restrictions on Investment Opportunities and Activities of Goldman Sachs and the Funds" below.

Goldman Sachs is frequently engaged as a financial advisor or financing provider to corporations and other entities and their management teams in connection with the sale of those companies or some or all of their assets, and Goldman Sachs' compensation in connection with these engagements may be substantial. Goldman Sachs' compensation for those engagements is usually based upon sales proceeds and is contingent, in substantial part, upon a sale. As a result, because sellers generally require Goldman Sachs to act exclusively on their behalf, Accounts will be precluded in many instances from attempting to acquire securities of, or providing financing to, the business being sold or otherwise participate as a buyer in the transaction. Goldman Sachs' decision to take on seller engagements is based upon a number of factors, including the likelihood in any particular situation that the successful buyer will be a financial purchaser rather than a strategic purchaser, the likelihood that any Accounts will be einvolved in the financing of that transaction and the compensation Goldman Sachs might receive by representing the seller. On occasion, Goldman Sachs may be given a choice by a seller of acting as its agent, as a potential purchaser of securities or assets, or as a buyer's source of financing through Accounts. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to act as the seller's agent in those circumstances, even where this choice may preclude Accounts from acquiring the relevant securities or assets.

Goldman Sachs also represents potential buyers of businesses, including private equity sponsors, and Goldman Sachs' compensation in connection with these representations may be substantial. In these cases, Goldman Sachs' compensation is usually a flat fee that is contingent, in substantial part, upon a purchase. Accordingly, Goldman Sachs may have an incentive to direct an acquisition opportunity to one of these parties rather than to Accounts or to form a consortium with one or more of these parties to bid for the acquisition opportunity, thereby eliminating or reducing the investment opportunity available to Accounts. Furthermore, Goldman Sachs may seek to provide acquisition financing to one or more other bidders in these auctions, including in situations where an Account is bidding for the asset. Moreover, Goldman Sachs may provide financing to an Account in situations where it is also offering financing to one or more other bidders. When Goldman Sachs represents a buyer seeking to acquire a particular business, or provides financing to a buyer in connection with an acquisition, Accounts may be precluded from participating in the financing of the acquisition of that business. Goldman Sachs' buyer and financing assignments may include representation of clients who would not permit either Goldman Sachs or affiliates thereof, potentially including Accounts, to invest in the acquired company. In this case, none of the Investment Adviser or its affiliates, including Accounts, would be allowed to participate as an investor. In some cases, a buyer represented by Goldman Sachs may invite Investment Adviser and certain Accounts to participate in the investment. Alternatively, Investment Adviser and certain Accounts may be invited to provide financing for this type of purchase. Each of these situations is likely to present difficult competing considerations involving conflicts of interest. In addition, Goldman Sachs may accept buyer advisory assignments in respect of a company in which Accounts have an investment. Accounts may be precluded from selling their investment during the assignment. Goldman Sachs evaluates potential buyer assignments in light of factors similar to those that will be considered in engaging in seller assignments.

Subject to applicable law, the Investment Adviser is incentivized to cause the Funds to invest in securities, bank loans or other obligations of companies affiliated with or advised by Goldman Sachs or in which Goldman Sachs or Accounts have an equity, debt or other interest, or to engage in investment transactions that may result in Goldman Sachs or other Accounts being relieved of obligations or otherwise divested of investments. For example, subject to applicable law certain Funds may acquire securities or indebtedness of a company affiliated with Goldman Sachs directly or indirectly through syndicate or secondary market purchases, or make a loan to, or purchase securities from, a company that uses the proceeds to repay loans made by Goldman Sachs. These activities by a Fund may enhance the profitability of Goldman Sachs or other Accounts with respect to their investment in and activities relating to such companies. The Fund will not be entitled to compensation as a result of this enhanced profitability.

To the extent permitted by applicable law, Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) creates, writes, sells, issues, invests in or acts as placement agent or distributor of derivative instruments related to the Funds, or with respect to underlying securities or assets of the Funds or which are be otherwise based on or seek to replicate or hedge the performance of the Funds. Such derivative transactions, and any associated hedging activity, may differ from and be adverse to the interests of the Funds.

Goldman Sachs makes loans to, and enters into margin, asset-based or other credit facilities or similar transactions with, clients, companies or individuals that are secured by publicly or privately held securities or other assets, including a client's Fund shares as described above. Some of these borrowers are public or private companies, or founders, officers or shareholders in companies in which the Funds (directly or indirectly) invest, and such loans may be secured by securities of such companies, which may be the same as, pari passu with, or more senior or junior to, interests held (directly or indirectly) by the Funds. Other borrowers include certain Goldman Sachs clients that pledge their interests in certain Accounts to Goldman Sachs as collateral for such loans. In connection with its rights as lender, Goldman Sachs acts to protect its own commercial interest and

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may take actions that adversely affect the borrower, including by liquidating or causing the liquidation of securities on behalf of a borrower or foreclosing and liquidating such securities in Goldman Sachs' own name. Such actions will adversely affect the Funds (if, for example, a large position in a security is liquidated, among the other potential adverse consequences will be that the value of such security will decline rapidly and the Funds will in turn decline in value or will be unable to liquidate their positions in such security at an advantageous price or at all). In addition, any foreclosure on collateral consisting of interests in an Account could have an adverse effect on that Account and its financing arrangements. In addition, Goldman Sachs may make loans to shareholders or enter into similar transactions that are secured by a pledge of, or mortgage over, a shareholder's Fund shares, which would provide Goldman Sachs with the right to redeem such Fund shares in the event that such shareholder defaults on its obligations. These transactions and related redemptions may be significant and may be made without notice to the shareholders.

Conflicts of interest also arise in the context of a restructuring or refinancing of debt securities that are owned by both Goldman Sachs and certain Accounts. In connection with any such restructuring or refinancing, the issuer could ask for broad liability releases not only from the participants themselves, but in addition from any affiliates of the participants that also hold the debt securities being restructured or refinanced. To the extent that a particular Account does not have the authority to provide such a release and is unable to negotiate a narrower release, it would be precluded from participating in the transaction, which could disadvantage such Account.

**Allocation of Personnel, Services and/or Resources** 

Conflicts of interest may arise in allocating time, personnel and/or resources of the Investment Adviser among the investment activities of multiple Accounts. The Investment Adviser and other Goldman Sachs personnel who play key roles in managing the Accounts may spend a portion of their time on matters other than or only tangentially related to any particular Account, or may leave the Investment Adviser for another investment group of Goldman Sachs (or may leave Goldman Sachs entirely). Time may be spent on other Goldman Sachs investment activities, including without limitation, investments made on behalf of Goldman Sachs and certain other entities (including special purpose acquisition companies) that are not investment advisory clients of the Investment Adviser. As a result, the other obligations of these individuals could conflict with their responsibilities to any of the Accounts. Further, the Investment Adviser may devote less time, services or resources to sourcing for investments of insufficient size to be expected to be shared with the other Accounts, even where such investment opportunities may be in the best interest of an Account.

**Code of Ethics and Personal Trading** 

Each of the Funds and Goldman Sachs, as each Fund's Investment Adviser and Distributor, has adopted a Code of Ethics (the "Code of Ethics") in compliance with Section 17(j) of the Act designed to provide that personnel of the Investment Adviser, and certain additional Goldman Sachs personnel who support the Investment Adviser, comply with applicable federal securities laws and place the interests of clients first in conducting personal securities transactions. The Code of Ethics imposes certain restrictions on securities transactions in the personal accounts of covered persons to help avoid conflicts of interest. Subject to the limitations of the Code of Ethics, covered persons buy and sell securities or other investments for their personal accounts, including investments in the Funds, and also take positions that are the same as, different from, or made at different times than, positions taken (directly or indirectly) by the Funds. The Codes of Ethics are available on the EDGAR Database on the SEC's Internet site at http://www.sec.gov. Copies may also be obtained after paying a duplicating fee by electronic request to publicinfo@sec.gov. Additionally, all Goldman Sachs personnel, including personnel of the Investment Adviser, are subject to firm-wide policies and procedures regarding confidential and proprietary information, information barriers, private investments, outside business activities and personal trading. The Investment Adviser requires pre-clearance of personal securities transactions, both public and private, by the Investment Adviser personnel and the Investment Adviser can deny any such transaction in its discretion. In order to address potential conflicts of interest with the Accounts and other legal and regulatory restrictions (such as when the Investment Adviser has confidential information about a portfolio company), Goldman Sachs maintains a list of securities in which the Investment Adviser personnel cannot trade. Additionally, the Investment Adviser generally does not allow its personnel to purchase securities of single-name public issuers.

**Proxy Voting by the Investment Adviser** 

The Investment Adviser has implemented processes designed to prevent conflicts of interest from influencing proxy voting decisions that it makes on behalf of advisory clients, including the Funds, and to help ensure that such decisions are made in accordance with its fiduciary obligations to its clients. Notwithstanding such proxy voting processes, proxy voting decisions made by the Investment Adviser in respect of securities held by the Funds may benefit the interests of Goldman Sachs and/or Accounts other than the Funds. Examples of material conflicts of interest that could arise in connection with a proxy voting decision include, without limitation, circumstances in which (i) Goldman Sachs has a business relationship with or other interests in the issuer or another interested party and (ii) Goldman Sachs personnel have a personal relationship with personnel of the issuer or another interested party. Conflicts of interest relating to proxy voting decisions also arise in situations in which Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser) or Accounts (including the Funds), on the one hand, and a particular Account, on the other hand, invest in or extend credit to the same issuer, but in different parts of the issuer's capital structure. See Item 11 ("Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal Trading—Participation or Interest in Client Accounts—Investments in and Advice Regarding Different Parts of an Issuer's Capital Structure") of the Investment Adviser's Form ADV. For a more detailed discussion of these policies and procedures, see the section of this SAI titled "PROXY VOTING."

**Potential Limitations and Restrictions on Investment Opportunities and Activities of Goldman Sachs and the Funds** 

The Investment Adviser restricts its investment decisions and activities on behalf of the Funds in various circumstances, including as a result of applicable regulatory requirements, information held by the Investment Adviser or Goldman Sachs, Goldman Sachs' roles in connection with other clients and in the capital markets (including in connection with advice it gives to such clients or commercial arrangements or transactions that are undertaken by such clients or by Goldman Sachs), Goldman Sachs' internal policies and/or potential reputational risk in connection with Accounts (including the Funds). In certain cases, the Investment Adviser will not engage in transactions or other activities for, or enforce certain

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rights in favor of, one or more Funds due to Goldman Sachs' activities outside the Funds (e.g., the Investment Adviser may refrain from making investments for the Funds that would cause Goldman Sachs to exceed position limits or cause Goldman Sachs to have additional disclosure obligations and may limit purchases or sales of securities in respect of which Goldman Sachs is engaged in an underwriting or other distribution) and regulatory requirements, policies and reputational risk assessments.

In addition, in certain circumstances, the Investment Adviser restricts, limits or reduces the amount of a Fund's investment, or restricts the type of governance or voting rights it acquires or exercises, where the Fund (potentially together with Goldman Sachs and other Accounts) exceeds a certain ownership interest, or possesses certain degrees of voting or control or has other interests. For example, such limitations may exist if a position or transaction could require a filing or license or other regulatory or corporate consent, which could, among other things, result in additional costs and disclosure obligations for, or impose regulatory restrictions on, Goldman Sachs, including the Investment Adviser, or on other Accounts, or where exceeding a threshold is prohibited or results in regulatory or other restrictions. In certain cases, restrictions and limitations will be applied to avoid approaching such threshold. Circumstances in which such restrictions or limitations arise include, without limitation: (i) a prohibition against owning more than a certain percentage of an issuer's securities; (ii) a "poison pill" that has a dilutive impact on the holdings of the Fund should a threshold be exceeded; (iii) provisions that cause Goldman Sachs to be considered an "interested stockholder" of an issuer; (iv) provisions that cause Goldman Sachs to be considered an "affiliate" or "control person" of the issuer; and (v) the imposition by an issuer (through charter amendment, contract or otherwise) or governmental, regulatory or self-regulatory organization (through law, rule, regulation, interpretation or other guidance) of other restrictions or limitations.

In addition, due to regulatory restrictions, certain Accounts are prohibited from, or are subject to certain restrictions when, trading with or through Goldman Sachs, engaging Goldman Sachs as a service provider or purchasing investments issued or managed by Goldman Sachs.

When faced with the foregoing limitations, Goldman Sachs will generally avoid exceeding the threshold because exceeding the threshold could have an adverse impact on the ability of the Investment Adviser or Goldman Sachs to conduct its business activities. The Investment Adviser may also reduce a Fund's interest in, or restrict a Fund from participating in, an investment opportunity that has limited availability or where Goldman Sachs has determined to cap its aggregate investment in consideration of certain regulatory or other requirements so that other Accounts that pursue similar investment strategies are able to acquire an interest in the investment opportunity. In some cases, the Investment Adviser determines not to engage in certain transactions or activities beneficial to the Funds because engaging in such transactions or activities in compliance with applicable law would result in significant cost to, or administrative burden on, the Investment Adviser or create the potential risk of trade or other errors.

The Investment Adviser generally is not permitted to use material non-public information in effecting purchases and sales in transactions for the Funds that involve public securities. The Investment Adviser may limit an activity or transaction (such as a purchase or sale transaction) which might otherwise be engaged in by the Funds, including as a result of information held by Goldman Sachs (including the Investment Adviser or its personnel). For example, directors, officers and employees of Goldman Sachs may take seats on the boards of directors of, or have board of directors observer rights with respect to, companies in which Goldman Sachs invests on behalf of the Funds. To the extent a director, officer or employee of Goldman Sachs were to take a seat on the board of directors of, or have board of directors observer rights with respect to, a public company, the Investment Adviser (or certain of its investment teams) may be limited and/or restricted in its or their ability to trade in the securities of the company. In addition, any such director, officer or employee of Goldman Sachs that is a member of the board of directors of a portfolio company may have duties in his or her capacity as a director that conflict with the Investment Adviser's duties to Accounts, and may act in a manner that disadvantages or otherwise harms a Fund and/or Goldman Sachs. In addition, the Investment Adviser may, in its sole discretion, determine to limit the information it receives in respect of an investment opportunity to avoid receiving material non-public information. As a result, other investors may be in possession of information in respect of investments, which, if known to the Investment Adviser, might cause the Investment Adviser to not make such investment, to seek to dispose of, retain or increase interests in such investments, or take other actions. Any decision by the Investment Adviser to limit access to such information may be disadvantageous to an Account.

Different areas of Goldman Sachs come into possession of material non-public information regarding an issuer of securities held by an Underlying Fund in which an Account invests. In the absence of information barriers between such different areas of Goldman Sachs or under certain other circumstances, the Account will be prohibited, including by internal policies, from trading, redeeming from or otherwise disposing of such security or such Underlying Fund during the period such material non-public information is held by such other part of Goldman Sachs, which period may be substantial. As a result, the Account would not be permitted to redeem from an Underlying Fund in whole or in part during periods when it otherwise would have been able to do so, which could adversely affect the Account. Other investors in the Underlying Fund that are not subject to such restrictions may be able to redeem from the Underlying Fund during such periods.

In addition, the Investment Adviser's clients may partially or fully fund a new Account with in-kind securities in which the Investment Adviser is restricted. In such circumstances, the Investment Adviser will generally sell any such securities at the next available trading window, subject to operational and technological limitations (unless such securities are subject to another express arrangement), requiring such Accounts to dispose of investments at an earlier or later date and/or at a less favorable price than would otherwise have been the case had the Investment Adviser not been so restricted. Accounts will be responsible for all tax liabilities that result from any such sale transactions.

The Investment Adviser operates a program reasonably designed to ensure compliance generally with economic and trade sanctions- related obligations applicable directly to its activities (although such obligations are not necessarily the same obligations to which any particular Fund is subject). Such economic and trade sanctions may prohibit, among other things, transactions with and the provision of services to, directly or indirectly, certain countries, territories, entities and individuals. It should be expected that these economic and trade sanctions, if applicable, and the application by the Investment Adviser of its compliance program in respect thereof, will restrict or limit the Funds' investment activities, and may require the Investment Adviser to cause a Fund to sell its position in a particular investment at an inopportune time and/or when the Investment Adviser would otherwise not have done so.

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The Investment Adviser may determine to limit or not engage at all in transactions and activities on behalf of the Funds for reputational, legal or other reasons. Examples of when such determinations may be made include, but are not limited to, where Goldman Sachs is providing (or may provide) advice or services to an entity involved in such activity or transaction, where Goldman Sachs or an Account is or may be engaged in the same or a related activity or transaction to that being considered on behalf of the Funds, where Goldman Sachs or an Account has an interest in an entity involved in such activity or transaction, where there are political, public relations, or other reputational considerations relating to counterparties or other participants in such activity or transaction or where such activity or transaction on behalf of or in respect of the Funds could affect in tangible or intangible ways Goldman Sachs, the Investment Adviser, an Account or their activities.

Goldman Sachs has and seeks to have long-term relationships with many significant participants in the financial markets. Goldman Sachs also has and seeks to have longstanding relationships with, and regularly provides financing, investment banking services and other services to, a significant number of corporations and private equity sponsors, leveraged buyout and hedge fund purchasers, and their respective senior managers, shareholders and partners. Some of these purchasers may directly or indirectly compete with Accounts for investment opportunities. Goldman Sachs considers these relationships, as well as client relationships and reputational considerations, in its management of Accounts. In this regard, there may be certain investment opportunities or certain investment strategies that Goldman Sachs (i) does not undertake on behalf of Accounts in view of these relationships, or (ii) refers to clients (in whole or in part) instead of retaining for Accounts. Similarly, Goldman Sachs may take the existence and development of such relationships into consideration in the management of Fund portfolios. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, there may, for example, be certain strategies involving the acquisition, management or realization of particular investments that an Account will not employ in light of these relationships, as well as investment opportunities or strategies that an Account will not pursue in light of their potential impact on other areas of Goldman Sachs or on Account investments or be unable to pursue as a result of non-competition agreements or other similar undertakings made by Goldman Sachs.

Goldman Sachs will consider its client relationships and the need to preserve its reputation in its management of Accounts and, as a result, (i) there may be certain investment opportunities or strategies that Goldman Sachs will not undertake on behalf of Funds or will refer to one or more Funds but not others, (ii) there may be certain rights or activities that Goldman Sachs will not undertake on behalf of Funds (including in respect of director representation and recusal), or (iii) there may be certain investments that, in certain limited circumstances, are sold, disposed of or restructured earlier or later than otherwise expected.

In order to engage in certain transactions on behalf of a Fund, the Investment Adviser will also be subject to (or cause the Fund to become subject to) the rules, terms and/or conditions of any venues through which it trades securities, derivatives or other instruments. This includes, but is not limited to, where the Investment Adviser and/or the Fund are required to comply with the rules of certain exchanges, execution platforms, trading facilities, clearing houses and other venues, or are required to consent to the jurisdiction of any such venues. The rules, terms and/or conditions of any such venue often result in the Investment Adviser and/or the Fund being subject to, among other things, margin requirements, additional fees and other charges, disciplinary procedures, reporting and recordkeeping, position limits and other restrictions on trading, settlement risks and other related conditions on trading set out by such venues.

From time to time, a Fund, the Investment Adviser or its affiliates and/or their service providers or agents are required, or determine that it is advisable, to disclose certain information about the Fund, including, but not limited to, investments held by the Fund, and the names and percentage interest of beneficial owners thereof (and the underlying beneficial owners of such beneficial owners), to third parties, including local governmental authorities, regulatory organizations, taxing authorities, markets, exchanges, clearing facilities, custodians, brokers and trading counterparties of, or service providers to, the Investment Adviser or the Fund. The Investment Adviser generally expects to comply with requests to disclose such information as it so determines including through electronic delivery platforms; however, in some cases, the Investment Adviser will cause the sale of certain assets for the Fund rather than make certain required disclosures, at a time that is inopportune from a pricing or other standpoint. In addition, the Investment Adviser may provide third parties with aggregated data regarding the activities of, or certain performance or other metrics associated with the Accounts, and the Investment Adviser may receive compensation from such third parties for providing them such information.

Goldman Sachs may become subject to additional restrictions on its business activities that could have an impact on the Funds' activities. In addition, the Investment Adviser may restrict its investment decisions and activities on behalf of the Funds and not other Accounts, including Accounts sponsored, managed or advised by the Investment Adviser.

**Brokerage Transactions** 

Subject to applicable law, the Investment Adviser often selects U.S. and non-U.S. broker-dealers (including affiliates of the Investment Adviser) that furnish the Investment Adviser, the Funds, Investment Adviser affiliates and other Goldman Sachs personnel with proprietary or third-party brokerage and research services (collectively, "brokerage and research services") that provide, in the Investment Adviser's view, appropriate assistance to the Investment Adviser in the investment decision-making process. These brokerage and research services may be bundled with the trade execution, clearing or settlement services provided by a particular broker-dealer and, subject to applicable law, the Investment Adviser may pay for such brokerage and research services with client commissions (or "soft dollars"). There are instances or situations in which such practices are subject to restrictions under applicable law. For example, the EU's Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II ("MiFID II") restricts EU domiciled investment advisers from receiving research and other materials that do not qualify as "acceptable minor non-monetary benefits" from broker-dealers unless the research or materials are paid for by the investment advisers from their own resources or from research payment accounts funded by and with the agreement of their clients.

Accounts differ with regard to whether and to what extent they pay for brokerage and research services through commissions and, subject to applicable law, brokerage and research services may be used to service the Funds and any or all other Accounts throughout the Investment Adviser, including Accounts that do not pay commissions to the broker-dealer relating to the brokerage and research service arrangements. As a result,

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brokerage and research services (including soft dollar benefits) may disproportionately benefit other Accounts relative to the Funds based on the relative amount of commissions paid by the Funds and in particular those Accounts that do not pay for brokerage and research services or do so to a lesser extent, including in connection with the establishment of maximum budgets for research costs (and switching to execution-only pricing when maximums are met). The Investment Adviser does not attempt to allocate soft dollar benefits proportionately among clients or to track the benefits of brokerage and research services to the commissions associated with a particular Account or group of Accounts.

**Aggregation of Orders by the Investment Adviser** 

The Investment Adviser follows policies and procedures pursuant to which it may (but is not required to) combine or aggregate purchase or sale orders for the same security or other instrument for multiple Accounts (including Accounts in which Goldman Sachs or personnel of Goldman Sachs have an interest) (sometimes referred to as "bunching"), so that the orders can be executed at the same time and block trade treatment of any such orders can be elected when available. The Investment Adviser aggregates orders when the Investment Adviser considers doing so to be operationally feasible and appropriate and in the interests of its clients and may elect block trade treatment when available. In addition, under certain circumstances orders for the Funds may be aggregated with orders for Accounts that contain Goldman Sachs assets.

When a bunched order or block trade is completely filled, or if the order is only partially filled, at the end of the day, the Investment Adviser generally will allocate the securities or other instruments purchased or the proceeds of any sale pro rata among the participating Accounts, based on the Funds' relative sizes. If an order is filled at several different prices, through multiple trades (whether at a particular broker-dealer or among multiple broker-dealers), generally all participating Accounts will receive the average price and pay the average commission, however, this may not always be the case (due to, e.g., odd lots, rounding, market practice or constraints applicable to particular Accounts).

Although it may do so in certain circumstances, the Investment Adviser does not always bunch or aggregate orders for different Funds, elect block trade treatment or net buy and sell orders for the same Fund, if portfolio management decisions relating to the orders are made by different portfolio management teams or if different portfolio management processes are used for different account types, if bunching, aggregating, electing block trade treatment or netting is not appropriate or practicable from the Investment Adviser's operational or other perspective, or if doing so would not be appropriate in light of applicable regulatory considerations, which may differ among Accounts. For example, time zone differences, trading instructions, cash flows, separate trading desks or portfolio management processes may, among other factors, result in separate, non-aggregated, non-netted executions, with orders in the same instrument being entered for different Accounts at different times or, in the case of netting, buy and sell trades for the same instrument being entered for the same Account. The Investment Adviser may be able to negotiate a better price and lower commission rate on aggregated orders than on orders for Funds that are not aggregated, and incur lower transaction costs on netted orders than orders that are not netted. The Investment Adviser is under no obligation or other duty to aggregate or net for particular orders. Where orders for a Fund are not aggregated with other orders, or not netted against orders for the Fund or other Accounts, the Fund will not benefit from a better price and lower commission rate or lower transaction cost that might have been available had the orders been aggregated or netted. Aggregation and netting of orders may disproportionately benefit some Accounts relative to other Accounts, including a Fund, due to the relative amount of market savings obtained by the Accounts. The Investment Adviser may aggregate orders of Accounts that are subject to MiFID II ("MiFID II Advisory Accounts") with orders of Accounts not subject to MiFID II, including those that generate soft dollar commissions (including the Funds) and those that restrict the use of soft dollars. All Accounts included in an aggregated order with MiFID II Advisory Accounts pay (or receive) the same average price for the security and the same execution costs (measured by rate). However, MiFID II Advisory Accounts included in an aggregated order may pay commissions at "execution-only" rates below the total commission rates paid by Accounts included in the aggregated order that are not subject to MiFID II.

**Affiliated Indexes and ETFs** 

The Investment Adviser and its affiliates have in the past, and may in the future, develop, own and operate Indexes based on investment and trading strategies and concepts developed by the Investment Adviser or its affiliates ("Investment Adviser Strategies"). The Investment Adviser may in the future enter into revenue sharing arrangements with third-party co-developers of an Index pursuant to which the Investment Adviser receives a portion of the fees generated from licensing the right to use the Index or components thereof to third parties. Some of the Funds seek to track the performance of the Indexes. The Investment Adviser manages Accounts which track the same Indexes used by the Funds or which are based on the same, or substantially similar, Investment Adviser Strategies that are used in the operation of the Indexes and the Funds. The operation of the Indexes, the Funds and the Accounts in this manner gives rise to potential conflicts of interest.

For example, Accounts that track the same Indexes used by the Funds may engage in purchases and sales of securities prior to when the Index and the Funds engage in similar transactions because such Accounts may be managed and rebalanced on an ongoing basis, whereas the Funds' portfolios are only rebalanced on a periodic basis corresponding with the rebalancing of the Index. These differences may result in the Accounts having more favorable performance relative to that of the Index and the Funds or other Accounts that track the Index. Other potential conflicts include the potential for unauthorized access to Index information, allowing Index changes that benefit the Investment Adviser or other Accounts and not the investors in the Funds, and the manipulation of Index pricing to present the performance of the Funds, or tracking ability, in a preferential light.

The Investment Adviser has adopted policies and procedures that are designed to address potential conflicts that arise in connection with the Investment Adviser's operation of the Indexes, the Funds and the Accounts. The Investment Adviser has established certain information barriers and other policies designed to address the sharing of information between different businesses within the Investment Adviser, including with respect to personnel responsible for maintaining the Indexes and those involved in decision-making for the Funds. In addition, as described above in "—Code of Ethics and Personal Trading," the Investment Adviser has adopted a Code of Ethics.

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To the extent it is intended that a Fund track an Index, the Fund may not match, and may vary substantially from, the Index for any period of time. A Fund that tracks an Index may purchase, hold and sell securities at times when a non-Index fund would not do so. The Investment Adviser does not guarantee that any tracking error targets will be achieved. Funds tracking an Index may be negatively impacted by any errors in the Index, either as a result of calculation errors, inaccurate data sources or otherwise. The Investment Adviser does not guarantee the availability, timeliness, accuracy and/or completeness of an Index and the Investment Adviser is not responsible for errors, omissions or interruptions in the Index (including when the Investment Adviser or an affiliate acts as the Index provider) or the calculation thereof (including when the Investment Adviser or an affiliate acts as the calculation agent).

**CREATIONS AND REDEMPTIONS** 

The Trust issues and sells shares of the Funds only in Creation Units on a continuous basis through the Distributor, without a sales load, at the NAV next determined after receipt of an order in proper form as described in the Participant Agreement (as defined below), on any Business Day (as defined below).

In its discretion, the Investment Adviser reserves the right to increase or decrease the number of a Fund's Shares that constitute a Creation Unit. The Board reserves the right to declare a split or a consolidation in the number of shares outstanding of a Fund, and to make a corresponding change in the number of shares constituting a Creation Unit, in the event that the per share price in the secondary market rises (or declines) to an amount that falls outside the range deemed desirable by the Board.

A "Business Day" with respect to the Funds is each day the NYSE, the Exchange and the Trust are open, including any day that a Fund is required to be open under Section 22(e) of the Act, which excludes weekends and the following holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth National Independence Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Orders from large institutional investors who have entered into agreements with the Funds' Distributor to create or redeem Creation Units will only be accepted on a Business Day.

The time at which transactions and shares are priced and the time by which orders must be received may be changed in case of an emergency or if regular trading on the NYSE is stopped at a time other than its regularly scheduled closing time. The Trust reserves the right to reprocess creation and redemption transactions that were initially processed at a NAV other than a Fund's official closing NAV (as each may be subsequently adjusted), and to recover amounts from (or distribute amounts to) Authorized Participants based on the official closing NAV. The Trust reserves the right to advance the time by which creation and redemption orders must be received for same business day credit as otherwise permitted by the SEC.

**Fund Deposit** 

The consideration for purchase of Creation Units generally consists of Deposit Securities and the Cash Component. Together, the Deposit Securities and Cash Component constitute the "Fund Deposit," which represents the minimum initial and subsequent investment amount for a Creation Unit of a Fund. The portfolio of securities required may be different than the portfolio of securities such Fund will deliver upon redemption of Fund shares.

The function of the Cash Component is to compensate for any differences between the NAV per Creation Unit and the Deposit Amount (as defined below). The Cash Component would be an amount equal to the difference between the NAV of the shares (per Creation Unit) and the "Deposit Amount," which is an amount equal to the market value of the Deposit Securities. If the Cash Component is a positive number (the NAV per Creation Unit exceeds the Deposit Amount), the Authorized Participant will deliver the Cash Component. If the Cash Component is a negative number (the NAV per Creation Unit is less than the Deposit Amount), the Authorized Participant will receive the Cash Component. Computation of the Cash Component excludes any stamp duty or other similar fees and expenses payable upon transfer of beneficial ownership of the Deposit Securities, which shall be the sole responsibility of the Authorized Participant. The Cash Component may also include a "Dividend Equivalent Payment," which enables each Fund to make a complete distribution of dividends on the next dividend payment date, and is an amount equal, on a per Creation Unit basis, to the dividends on all the securities held by the Fund with ex-dividend dates within the accumulation period for such distribution (the "Accumulation Period"), net of expenses and liabilities for such period, as if all of the securities had been held by the Trust for the entire Accumulation Period. The Accumulation Period begins on the ex-dividend date for each Fund and ends on the next ex-dividend date.

BNYM, through the National Securities Clearing Corporation ("NSCC"), makes available on each Business Day, prior to the opening of business on the Exchange (currently 9:30 a.m., Eastern time), the identity and the required number or amount of each Deposit Security and the amount of the Cash Component (or cash deposit) to be included in the current Fund Deposit (based on information at the end of the previous Business Day). Such Fund Deposit is applicable, subject to any adjustments as described below, in order to effect purchases of Creation Units of that Fund until such time as the next-announced composition of the Fund Deposit is made available.

The Trust reserves the right to accept a basket of securities and/or cash that differs from a basket of Deposit Securities and/or cash published or transacted on a Business Day, or to permit or require the substitution of an amount of cash (a "cash-in-lieu" amount) to be added to the Cash Component to replace any Deposit Security.

**Procedures for Creating Creation Units** 

To be eligible to place orders with the Distributor and to create a Creation Unit of a Fund, an entity must be a member or participant of a clearing agency registered with the SEC, which has a written agreement with the Fund or one of its service providers that allows the authorized participant to place orders for the purchase and redemption of Creation Units (a "Participant Agreement," and such participants, an "Authorized Participant"). All shares of the Funds, however created, will be entered on the records of DTC in the name of its nominee for the account of a participant of DTC ("DTC Participant").

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Except as described below, and in all cases subject to the terms of the applicable Participant Agreement, all orders to create Creation Units of a Fund must be received by the Transfer Agent no later than the closing time of the regular trading session of the Exchange ("Order Cutoff Time") (ordinarily 4:00 p.m., Eastern time) in each case on the date such order is placed for creation of Creation Units to be effected based on the NAV of shares of such Fund as next determined after receipt of an order in proper form. A "Custom Order" may be placed by an Authorized Participant in the event that a Fund accepts (or delivers, in the case of a redemption) a basket of securities and/or cash that differs from a basket of Deposit Securities and/or cash published or transacted on a Business Day (discussed below). Custom Orders must be received by the Transfer Agent at such earlier time as provided in the Participant Agreement. On days when the Exchange closes earlier than normal (such as the day before a holiday), the Fund requires standard orders to create Creation Units to be placed by the earlier closing time and Custom Orders to create Creation Units must be received no later than one hour prior to the earlier closing time. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Trust may, but is not required to, permit Custom Orders until 4:00 p.m., Eastern time, or until the market close (in the event the Exchange closes early). The date on which an order to create Creation Units (or an order to redeem Creation Units, as discussed below) is placed is referred to as the "Transmittal Date." Orders must be transmitted by an Authorized Participant through the Transfer Agent's electronic order system or by telephone or other transmission method acceptable to the Transfer Agent and approved by the Distributor pursuant to procedures set forth in the Participant Agreement. Economic or market disruptions or changes, or telephone or other communication failure may impede the ability to reach the Transfer Agent, Distributor or an Authorized Participant.

All investor orders to create Creation Units shall be placed with an Authorized Participant in the form required by such Authorized Participant. In addition, an Authorized Participant may request that an investor make certain representations or enter into agreements with respect to an order (to provide for payments of cash). Investors should be aware that their particular broker may not have executed a Participant Agreement and, therefore, orders to create Creation Units of a Fund will have to be placed by the investor's broker through an Authorized Participant. In such cases, there may be additional charges to such investor. A limited number of broker-dealers are expected to execute a Participant Agreement and only a small number of such Authorized Participants are expected to have international capabilities.

Creation Units may be created in advance of the receipt by the Trust of all or a portion of the Fund Deposit. In such cases, the Authorized Participant will remain liable for the full deposit of the missing portion(s) of the Fund Deposit and will be required to post collateral with the Trust consisting of cash at least equal to a percentage of the marked to market value of such missing portion(s) that is specified in the Participant Agreement. The Trust may use such collateral to buy the missing portion(s) of the Fund Deposit at any time and will subject such Authorized Participant to liability for any shortfall between the cost to the Trust of purchasing such securities and the value of such collateral. The Trust will have no liability for any such shortfall. The Trust will return any unused portion of the collateral to the Authorized Participant once the entire Fund Deposit has been properly received by the Transfer Agent and deposited into the Trust.

Orders for Creation Units that are effected outside the clearing process through the Continuous Net Settlement System of the NSCC (the "Clearing Process") are likely to require transmittal by the DTC Participant earlier on the Transmittal Date than orders effected using the Clearing Process. Those persons placing orders outside the Clearing Process should ascertain the deadlines applicable to DTC and the Federal Reserve Bank wire system by contacting the operations department of the broker or depository institution effectuating such transfer of Deposit Securities and Cash Component.

Orders to create Creation Units of a Fund may be placed through the Clearing Process utilizing procedures applicable to domestic funds for domestic securities ("Domestic Funds") (see "Placement of Creation Orders Using Clearing Process") or outside the Clearing Process utilizing the procedures applicable to either Domestic Funds or foreign funds for foreign securities ("Foreign Funds") (see "— Placement of Creation Orders Outside Clearing Process—Domestic Funds" and "—Placement of Creation Orders Outside Clearing Process—Foreign Funds"). In the event that a Fund includes both domestic and foreign securities, the time for submitting orders is as stated in the "Placement of Creation Orders Outside Clearing Process—Foreign Funds" and "Placement of Redemption Orders Outside Clearing Process—Domestic Funds" sections below shall operate.

**Placement of Creation Orders Using Clearing Process** 

Fund Deposits must be delivered through a DTC Participant that has executed a Participant Agreement. A DTC Participant who wishes to place an order creating Creation Units of the Fund need not be a broker-dealer or other participant in the Clearing Process ("Participating Party"), but such orders must state that the creation of Creation Units will be effected through a transfer of securities and/or cash. The Fund Deposit transfer must be ordered by the DTC Participant in a manner so as to ensure the timely delivery of the requisite number of Deposit Securities through DTC to the account of the Trust and the delivery of the Cash Component (if applicable) directly to the Transfer Agent through the Federal Reserve wire system.

All questions as to the number of Deposit Securities to be delivered, and the validity, form and eligibility (including time of receipt) for the deposit of any tendered securities, will be determined by the Trust, whose determination shall be final and binding. An order to create Creation Units of a Fund is deemed received by the Transfer Agent, and approved by the Distributor on the Transmittal Date if (i) such order is received by the Transfer Agent not later than the Order Cutoff Time on such Transmittal Date; and (ii) all other procedures set forth in the Participant Agreement are properly followed. However, if the Transfer Agent does not receive both the requisite Deposit Securities and the Cash Component in a timely fashion, such order will be cancelled. Upon written notice to the Transfer Agent, such cancelled order may be resubmitted the following Business Day using the Fund Deposit as newly constituted to reflect the current NAV of the Fund. The delivery of Creation Units so created will occur by the prescribed settlement date.

Additional transaction fees may be imposed in circumstances in which any cash can be used in lieu of Deposit Securities to create Creation Units. (See "Creation Transaction Fee" section below.)

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**Placement of Creation Orders Outside Clearing Process—Domestic Funds** 

Fund Deposits created outside the Clearing Process must be delivered through a DTC Participant that has executed a Participant Agreement. A DTC Participant who wishes to place an order creating Creation Units of the Funds to be effected outside the Clearing Process need not be a Participating Party, but such orders must state that the DTC Participant is not using the Clearing Process and that the creation of Creation Units will instead be effected through a transfer of securities and cash. The Fund Deposit transfer must be ordered by the DTC Participant in a manner so as to ensure the timely delivery of the requisite number of Deposit Securities through DTC to the account of the Trust. All questions as to the number of Deposit Securities to be delivered, and the validity, form and eligibility (including time of receipt) for the deposit of any tendered securities, will be determined by the Trust, whose determination shall be final and binding. The cash equal to the Cash Component must be transferred directly to the Transfer Agent through the Federal Reserve wire system in a timely manner. An order to create Creation Units of a Fund outside the Clearing Process is deemed received by the Transfer Agent, and approved by the Distributor on the Transmittal Date if (i) such order is received by the Transfer Agent not later than the Order Cutoff Time on such Transmittal Date; and (ii) all other procedures set forth in the Participant Agreement are properly followed. However, if the Transfer Agent does not receive both the requisite Deposit Securities and the Cash Component in a timely fashion, such order will be cancelled. Upon written notice to the Transfer Agent, such cancelled order may be resubmitted the following Business Day using the Fund Deposit as newly constituted to reflect the current NAV of the applicable Fund. The delivery of Creation Units so created will occur by the prescribed settlement date.

Additional transaction fees may be imposed with respect to transactions effected outside the Clearing Process (through a DTC participant) and in circumstances in which any cash can be used in lieu of Deposit Securities to create Creation Units. (See "Creation Transaction Fee" section below.)

**Placement of Creation Orders Outside Clearing Process—Foreign Funds** 

The Transfer Agent will inform the Distributor, the Investment Adviser and the Custodian upon receipt of a Creation Order. The Custodian will then provide such information to the appropriate subcustodian. For each Fund, the Custodian will cause the subcustodian of such Fund to maintain an account into which the Deposit Securities (or the cash value of all or part of such securities, in the case of a permitted or required cash purchase or "cash-in-lieu" amount) will be delivered. Deposit Securities must be delivered to an account maintained at the applicable local custodian. The Trust must also receive, on or before the prescribed settlement date, immediately available or same day funds estimated by the Custodian to be sufficient to pay the Cash Component next determined after receipt in proper form of the purchase order, together with the creation transaction fee described below.

Once the Distributor has accepted a creation order, the Transfer Agent will confirm the issuance of a Creation Unit of a Fund against receipt of payment, at such NAV as will have been calculated after receipt in proper form of such order. The Transfer Agent will then transmit a confirmation of acceptance of such order.

Creation Units will not be issued until the transfer of good title to the Trust of the Deposit Securities and the payment of the Cash Component and applicable transaction fee have been completed. When the subcustodian has confirmed to the Custodian that the required Deposit Securities (or the cash value thereof) have been delivered to the account of the relevant subcustodian, the Distributor and the Investment Adviser will be notified of such delivery and the Transfer Agent will issue and cause the delivery of the Creation Units.

**Acceptance of Creation Orders** 

The Trust and the Distributor reserve the right to reject or revoke a purchase order for any reason, provided that such action does not result in a suspension of sales of Creation Units in contravention of Rule 6c-11 and the SEC's positions thereunder. For example, the Trust and the Distributor may reject or revoke acceptance of a creation order, including, but not limited to, when: (i) the order is not in proper form; (ii) the investor(s), upon obtaining the Shares ordered, would own 80% or more of the currently outstanding Shares of such Fund; (iii) acceptance of the Fund Deposit would, in the opinion of the Fund, be unlawful; or (iv) in the event that circumstances outside the control of the Trust, the Transfer Agent, the Distributor or the Investment Adviser make it impracticable to process creation orders. Examples of such circumstances include acts of God; public service or utility problems such as fires, floods, extreme weather conditions and power outages resulting in telephone, facsimile and computer failures; market conditions or activities causing trading halts; systems failures involving computer or other information systems affecting the Trust, the Investment Adviser, the Distributor, DTC, the Clearing Process, Federal Reserve, the Transfer Agent or any other participant in the creation process, and other extraordinary events. The Distributor shall notify the Authorized Participant acting on behalf of the creator of a Creation Unit of its rejection of the order of such person. Neither the Trust, the Transfer Agent, the Distributor nor the Investment Adviser are under any duty, however, to give notification of any defects or irregularities in the delivery of Fund Deposits nor shall any of them incur any liability for the failure to give any such notification.

All questions as to the number of shares of Deposit Securities and the validity, form, eligibility, and acceptance for deposit of any securities to be delivered and the amount and form of the Cash Component, as applicable, shall be determined by the Trust, and the Trust's determination shall be final and binding.

**Creation Transaction Fee** 

A fixed creation transaction fee payable to the Custodian is imposed on each creation transaction regardless of the number of Creation Units purchased in the transaction, in the following amounts:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Creation<br>Transaction Fee** |
|  Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | $375 |
|  Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF | $170 |
|  Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF | $115 |
|  Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF | $110 |

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In the case of cash creations or where the Trust permits or requires a creator to substitute cash in lieu of depositing a portion of the Deposit Securities, the creator may be assessed an additional variable charge to compensate the Funds for the costs associated with purchasing the applicable securities. (See "Fund Deposit" section above.) As a result, in order to seek to replicate the in-kind creation order process, the Trust expects to purchase, in the secondary market or otherwise gain exposure to, the portfolio securities that could have been delivered as a result of an in-kind creation order pursuant to local law or market convention, or for other reasons ("Market Purchases"). In such cases where the Trust makes Market Purchases, the Authorized Participant may be required to reimburse the Trust for, among other things, any difference between the market value at which the securities and/or financial instruments were purchased by the Trust and the cash in lieu amount (which amount, at the Investment Adviser's discretion, may be capped), applicable registration fees, brokerage commissions and certain taxes. The Investment Adviser may adjust the transaction fee to the extent the composition of the creation securities changes or cash in lieu is added to the Cash Component to protect existing shareholders. Creators of Creation Units are responsible for the costs of transferring the securities constituting the Deposit Securities to the account of the Trust. See "Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage" for additional information regarding certain cash creation transactions. From time to time, all or a portion of a Fund's transaction fees may be waived at the sole discretion of the Investment Adviser, including in connection with an Authorized Participant's investment of seed capital in a Fund or where an Authorized Participant is engaged in certain customized creation and redemption basket activity that is designed to benefit a Fund by facilitating index tracking in a tax efficient manner (i.e., to minimize the realization of capital gains). To the extent a Fund does not recoup the amount of costs incurred in connection with a creation transaction, those costs will be borne by the Fund and may negatively affect the Fund's performance.

**Redemption of Creation Units** 

Shares may be redeemed only in Creation Units at their NAV next determined after receipt of a redemption request in proper form on a Business Day and only through a Participating Party or DTC Participant who has executed a Participant Agreement. The Funds will not redeem Shares in amounts less than Creation Units (except each Fund may redeem Shares in amounts less than a Creation Unit in the event the Fund is being liquidated). Beneficial owners must accumulate enough Shares in the secondary market to constitute a Creation Unit in order to have such Shares redeemed by the Trust. There can be no assurance, however, that there will be sufficient liquidity in the public trading market at any time to permit assembly of a Creation Unit. Authorized Participants should expect to incur brokerage and other costs in connection with assembling a sufficient number of Shares to constitute a redeemable Creation Unit. All redemptions are subject to the procedures contained in the applicable Participant Agreement.

With respect to a Fund, BNYM, through the NSCC, makes available prior to the opening of business on the Exchange (currently 9:30 a.m., Eastern time) on each Business Day, the identity and number or amount of each Fund's securities ("Fund Securities") and/or an amount of cash that will be applicable (subject to possible amendment or correction) to redemption requests received in proper form (as described below) on that day. All orders are subject to acceptance by the Distributor. Fund Securities received on redemption may not be identical to Deposit Securities that are applicable to creations of Creation Units.

Unless cash only redemptions are available or specified for a Fund, the redemption proceeds for a Creation Unit will generally consist of Fund Securities – as published on the Business Day of the request for a redemption order received in proper form–plus cash in an amount equal to the difference between the NAV of the Shares being redeemed, as next determined after a receipt of a request in proper form, and the value of the Fund Securities, less the redemption transaction fee and variable fees described below. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Trust reserves the right to deliver a basket of securities and/or cash that differs from a basket of Fund Securities and/or cash published or transacted on a Business Day, or to substitute an amount of cash (a "cash-in-lieu" amount) to be added to the Cash Component to replace any Fund Security. Where "cash-in-lieu" is used, the amount of cash paid out in such cases will be equivalent to the value of the instrument listed as a Deposit Security. In the event that the Fund Securities have a value greater than the NAV of the Shares, a compensating cash payment equal to the difference is required to be made by an Authorized Participant.

Redemptions of shares for Fund Securities will be subject to compliance with applicable U.S. federal and state securities laws, and each Fund reserves the right to redeem Creation Units for cash to the extent that the Trust could not lawfully deliver specific Fund Securities upon redemptions or could not do so without first registering the Fund Securities under such laws. An Authorized Participant, or a beneficial owner of shares for which it is acting, subject to a legal restriction with respect to a particular security included in the redemption of a Creation Unit may be paid an equivalent amount of cash. This would specifically prohibit delivery of Fund Securities that are not registered in reliance upon Rule 144A under the 1933 Act to a redeeming beneficial owner of shares that is not a "qualified institutional buyer," as such term is defined under Rule 144A of the 1933 Act. The Authorized Participant may request the redeeming beneficial owner of the shares to complete an order form or to enter into agreements with respect to such matters as compensating cash payment.

The right of redemption may be suspended or the date of payment postponed with respect to a Fund: (i) for any period during which the NYSE is closed (other than customary weekend and holiday closings); (ii) for any period during which trading on the NYSE is suspended or restricted; (iii) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by the Fund of securities it owns or determination of the Fund's NAV is not reasonably practicable; or (iv) in such other circumstances as permitted by the SEC.

If the Trust determines, based on information available to the Trust when a redemption request is submitted by an Authorized Participant, that (i) the short interest of the Fund in the marketplace is greater than or equal to 100% and (ii) the orders in the aggregate from all Authorized Participants redeeming Fund Shares on a Business Day represent 25% or more of the outstanding Shares of the Fund, such Authorized Participant will be required to verify to the Trust the accuracy of its representations that are deemed to have been made by submitting a request for redemption. If, after receiving notice of the verification requirement, the Authorized Participant does not verify the accuracy of its representations that are deemed to have been made by submitting a request for redemption in accordance with this requirement, its redemption request will be considered not to have been received in proper form.

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**Redemption Transaction Fee** 

The basic redemption transaction fee is the same no matter how many Creation Units are being redeemed pursuant to any one redemption request, in the following amounts:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Fund** | **Redemption<br>Transaction Fee** |
|  Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | $375 |
|  Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF | $170 |
|  Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF | $115 |
|  Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF | $110 |

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An additional variable charge for cash redemptions or partial cash redemptions (when cash redemptions are permitted or required for a Fund) may also be imposed to compensate each applicable Fund for the costs associated with selling the applicable securities. As a result, in order to seek to replicate the in-kind redemption order process, the Trust expects to sell, in the secondary market, the portfolio securities or settle any financial instruments that may not be permitted to be re-registered in the name of the Participating Party as a result of an in-kind redemption order pursuant to local law or market convention, or for other reasons ("Market Sales"). In such cases where the Trust makes Market Sales, the Authorized Participant may be required to reimburse the Trust for, among other things, any difference between the market value at which the securities and/or financial instruments were sold or settled by the Trust and the cash in lieu amount (which amount, at the Investment Adviser's discretion, may be capped), applicable registration fees, brokerage commissions and certain taxes ("Transaction Costs"). The Investment Adviser may adjust the transaction fee to the extent the composition of the redemption securities changes or cash in lieu is added to the Cash Component to protect ongoing shareholders. In no event will fees charged by a Fund in connection with a redemption exceed 2% of the value of each Creation Unit. Investors who use the services of a broker or other such intermediary may be charged a fee for such services. See "Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage" for additional information regarding certain cash redemption transactions. From time to time, all or a portion of a Fund's transaction fees may be waived at the sole discretion of the Investment Adviser, including in connection with an Authorized Participant's investment of seed capital in a Fund or where an Authorized Participant is engaged in certain customized creation and redemption basket activity that is designed to benefit a Fund by facilitating index tracking in a tax efficient manner (i.e., to minimize the realization of capital gains). To the extent a Fund does not recoup the amount of Transaction Costs incurred in connection with a redemption from the redeeming shareholder because of the 2% cap or otherwise, those Transaction Costs will be borne by the Fund and may negatively affect the Fund's performance.

**Placement of Redemption Orders Using Clearing Process** 

Orders to redeem Creation Units of a Fund through the Clearing Process, if available, must be delivered through a Participating Party that has executed the Participant Agreement. An order to redeem Creation Units of a Fund using the Clearing Process is deemed received on the Transmittal Date if (i) such order is received by the Transfer Agent not later than 4:00 p.m. Eastern time on such Transmittal Date; and (ii) all other procedures set forth in the Participant Agreement are properly followed; such order will be effected based on the NAV of the Fund as next determined. An order to redeem Creation Units of a Fund using the Clearing Process made in proper form but received by the Fund after 4:00 p.m. Eastern time, will be deemed received on the next Business Day immediately following the Transmittal Date. The requisite Fund Securities (or contracts to purchase such Fund Securities which are expected to be delivered in a "regular way" manner) and the applicable cash payment will be transferred by the prescribed settlement date.

**Placement of Redemption Orders Outside Clearing Process—Domestic Funds** 

Orders to redeem Creation Units of a Fund outside the Clearing Process must be delivered through a DTC Participant that has executed the Participant Agreement. A DTC Participant who wishes to place an order for redemption of Creation Units of a Fund to be effected outside the Clearing Process need not be a Participating Party, but such orders must state that the DTC Participant is not using the Clearing Process and that redemption of Creation Units of the Fund will instead be effected through transfer of Creation Units of the Fund directly through DTC. An order to redeem Creation Units of a Fund outside the Clearing Process is deemed received by BNYM on the Transmittal Date if (i) such order is received by BNYM not later than 4:00 p.m. Eastern time on such Transmittal Date; (ii) such order is preceded or accompanied by the requisite number of Shares of Creation Units specified in such order; and (iii) all other procedures set forth in the Participant Agreement are properly followed.

After BNYM has deemed an order for redemption outside the Clearing Process received, BNYM will initiate procedures to transfer the requisite Fund Securities (or contracts to purchase such Fund Securities) and the cash redemption payment to the redeeming Beneficial Owner by the prescribed settlement date. Additional transaction fee may be imposed with respect to transactions effected outside the Clearing Process. (See "Redemption Transaction Fee" section above.)

**Placement of Redemption Orders Outside Clearing Process—Foreign Funds** 

Arrangements satisfactory to the Trust must be in place for the Participating Party to transfer the Creation Units through DTC on or before the prescribed settlement date. Redemptions of Shares for Fund Securities will be subject to compliance with applicable U.S. federal and state securities laws and a Fund (whether or not it otherwise permits or requires cash redemptions) reserves the right to redeem Creation Units for cash to the extent that a Fund could not lawfully deliver specific Fund Securities upon redemptions or could not do so without first registering the Fund Securities under such laws.

In connection with taking delivery of Shares for Fund Securities upon redemption of Creation Units, a redeeming shareholder or entity acting on behalf of a redeeming shareholder must maintain appropriate custody arrangements with a qualified broker dealer, bank or other custody providers in each jurisdiction in which any of the Fund Securities are customarily traded, to which account such Fund Securities will be delivered. If

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neither the redeeming shareholder nor the entity acting on behalf of a redeeming shareholder has appropriate arrangements to take delivery of the Fund Securities in the applicable foreign jurisdiction and it is not possible to make other such arrangements, or if it is not possible to effect deliveries of the Fund Securities in such jurisdictions, the Trust may, in its discretion, exercise its option to redeem such Shares in cash, and the redeeming shareholder will be required to receive its redemption proceeds in cash.

Regular Foreign Holidays. The Funds may effect deliveries of Creation Units and portfolio securities on a basis other than the normal settlement periods in order to accommodate local holiday schedules, to account for different treatment among foreign and U.S. markets of dividend record dates and ex-dividend dates or under certain other circumstances. The ability of the Trust to effect in-kind creations and redemptions within the normal settlement periods is subject, among other things, to the condition that, within the time period from the date of the order to the date of delivery of the securities, there are no days that are holidays in the applicable foreign market. For every occurrence of one or more intervening holidays in the applicable foreign market that are not holidays observed in the U.S. equity market, the redemption settlement cycle may be extended by the number of such intervening holidays. In addition to holidays, other unforeseeable closings in a foreign market due to emergencies may also prevent the Trust from delivering securities within normal settlement periods. The securities delivery cycles currently practicable for transferring portfolio securities to redeeming Authorized Participants, coupled with foreign market holiday schedules, will require a delivery process longer than seven calendar days for the Funds, in certain circumstances. In such cases, the local market settlement procedures will not commence until the end of the local holiday periods. The timing of settlement may also be affected by the proclamation of new holidays, the treatment by market participants of certain days as "informal holidays" (e.g., days on which no or limited securities transactions occur, as a result of substantially shortened trading hours), the elimination of existing holidays or changes in local securities delivery practices. Because the portfolio securities of the Funds may trade on days that the Funds' Exchange is closed or on days that are not Business Days for the Funds, Authorized Participants may not be able to redeem their shares of the Funds, or to purchase and sell shares of the Funds on the Exchange, on days when the NAV of the Funds could be significantly affected by events in the relevant non-U.S. markets.

**BOOK ENTRY ONLY SYSTEM** 

DTC acts as securities depositary for the Shares. Shares of the Funds are represented by securities registered in the name of DTC or its nominee and deposited with, or on behalf of, DTC. Certificates will not be issued for Shares.

DTC, a limited purpose trust company, was created to hold securities of the DTC Participants and to facilitate the clearance and settlement of securities transactions among the DTC Participants in such securities through electronic book entry changes in accounts of the DTC Participants, thereby eliminating the need for physical movement of securities certificates. DTC Participants include securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations and certain other organizations, some of whom (and/or their representatives) own DTC. More specifically, DTC is owned by a number of its DTC Participants and by the NYSE and FINRA. Access to the DTC system is also available to others such as banks, brokers, dealers and trust companies that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a DTC Participant, either directly or indirectly (the "Indirect Participants").

Beneficial ownership of Shares is limited to DTC Participants, Indirect Participants and persons holding interests through DTC Participants and Indirect Participants. Ownership of beneficial interests in Shares (owners of such beneficial interests are referred to herein as "Beneficial Owners") is shown on, and the transfer of ownership is effected only through, records maintained by DTC (with respect to DTC Participants) and on the records of DTC Participants (with respect to Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners that are not DTC Participants). Beneficial Owners will receive from or through the DTC Participant a written confirmation relating to their purchase of Shares.

Conveyance of all notices, statements and other communications to Beneficial Owners is effected as follows. Pursuant to the Depositary Agreement between the Trust and DTC, DTC is required to make available to the Trust upon request and for a fee to be charged to the Trust a listing of the Shares holdings of each DTC Participant. The Trust shall inquire of each such DTC Participant as to the number of Beneficial Owners holding Shares, directly or indirectly, through such DTC Participant. The Trust shall provide each such DTC Participant with copies of such notice, statement or other communication, in such form, number and at such place as such DTC Participant may reasonably request, in order that such notice, statement or communication may be transmitted by such DTC Participant, directly or indirectly, to such Beneficial Owners. In addition, the Trust shall pay to each such DTC Participant a fair and reasonable amount as reimbursement for the expenses attendant to such transmittal, all subject to applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.

Share distributions shall be made to DTC or its nominee, Cede & Co., as the registered holder of all Shares. DTC or its nominee, upon receipt of any such distributions, shall credit immediately DTC Participants' accounts with payments in amounts proportionate to their respective beneficial interests in Shares as shown on the records of DTC or its nominee. Payments by DTC Participants to Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners of Shares held through such DTC Participants will be governed by standing instructions and customary practices, as is now the case with securities held for the accounts of customers in bearer form or registered in a "street name," and will be the responsibility of such DTC Participants.

The Trust has no responsibility or liability for any aspects of the records relating to or notices to Beneficial Owners, or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests in such Shares, or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to such beneficial ownership interests or for any other aspect of the relationship between DTC and the DTC Participants or the relationship between such DTC Participants and the Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners owning through such DTC Participants.

DTC may determine to discontinue providing its service with respect to the Shares at any time by giving reasonable notice to the Trust and discharging its responsibilities with respect thereto under applicable law. Under such circumstances, the Trust shall take action either to find a replacement for DTC to perform its functions at a comparable cost or, if such a replacement is unavailable, to issue and deliver printed certificates representing ownership of Shares, unless the Trust makes other arrangements with respect thereto satisfactory to an Exchange.

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**Request for Multiple Copies of Shareholder Documents** 

To reduce expenses, it is intended that only one copy of a Fund's Prospectus and each annual and semi-annual report, when available, will be mailed to those addresses shared by two or more accounts. If you wish to receive individual copies of these documents, please contact the financial intermediary through which you hold your shares.

**DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLAN** 

The Board of Trustees of the Trust has adopted a distribution and service plan ("Plan") pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the Plan, each Fund is authorized to pay distribution fees in connection with the sale and distribution of its Shares and pay service fees in connection with the provision of ongoing services to shareholders of each Fund and the maintenance of shareholder accounts in an amount up to 0.25% of its average daily net assets each year.

No Rule 12b-1 fees are currently paid by each Fund, and there are no current plans to impose these fees. However, in the event Rule 12b-1 fees are charged in the future, because these fees are paid out of each Fund's assets on an ongoing basis, these fees will increase the cost of your investment in the Funds. By purchasing Shares subject to distribution fees and service fees, you may pay more over time than you would by purchasing Shares with other types of sales charge arrangements. Long-term shareholders may pay more than the economic equivalent of the maximum front-end sales charge permitted by the rules of FINRA. The net income attributable to Shares will be reduced by the amount of distribution fees and service fees and other expenses of the Funds.

**PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE** 

The portfolio transactions for the Funds are generally effected at a net price without a broker's commission (i.e., a dealer is dealing with the Funds as principal and receives compensation equal to the spread between the dealer's cost for a given security and the resale price of such security). In certain foreign countries, debt securities are traded on exchanges at fixed commission rates. In connection with portfolio transactions, the Management Agreement provides that the Investment Adviser shall attempt to obtain the most favorable execution and net price available. The Management Agreement provides that, on occasions when the Investment Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interests of a Fund as well as its other customers (including any other fund or other investment company or advisory account for which an Investment Adviser or an affiliate acts as Investment Adviser), the Fund, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may aggregate the securities to be sold or purchased for the Fund with those to be sold or purchased for such other customers in order to obtain the best net price and most favorable execution. In such event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by the Investment Adviser in the manner it considers to be most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to such Fund and such other customers. In some instances, this procedure may adversely affect the size and price of the position obtainable for a Fund. The Management Agreement permits the Investment Adviser, in its discretion, to purchase and sell portfolio securities to and from dealers who provide the Trust with brokerage or research services in which dealers may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to a Fund.

Brokerage and research services furnished by firms through which a Fund effects its securities transactions may be used by the Investment Adviser in servicing other accounts and not all of these services may be used by the Investment Adviser in connection with the Fund generating the brokerage credits. Such research or other services may include research reports on companies, industries and securities; economic and financial data; financial publications; computer data bases; quotation equipment and services; and research-oriented computer hardware, software and other services. The fees received under the

Management Agreement is not reduced by reason of the Investment Adviser receiving such brokerage and research services. Such services are used by the Investment Adviser in connection with all of its investment activities, and some of such services obtained in connection with the execution of transactions for the Fund may be used in managing other investment accounts. Conversely, brokers furnishing such services may be selected for the execution of transactions of such other accounts, whose aggregate assets may be larger than those of the Fund, and the services furnished by such brokers may be used by the Investment Adviser in providing management services for the Trust. The Investment Adviser may also participate in so-called "commission sharing arrangements" and "client commission arrangements" under which the Investment Adviser may execute transactions through a broker-dealer and request that the broker-dealer allocate a portion of the commissions or commission credits to another firm that provides research to the Investment Adviser. The Investment Adviser excludes from use under these arrangements those products and services that are not fully eligible under applicable law and regulatory interpretations– even as to the portion that would be eligible if accounted for separately.

The research services received as part of commission sharing and client commission arrangements will comply with Section 28(e) and may be subject to different legal requirements in the jurisdictions in which the Investment Adviser does business. Participating in commission sharing and client commission arrangements may enable the Investment Adviser to consolidate payments for research through one or more channels using accumulated client commissions or credits from transactions executed through a particular broker-dealer to obtain research provided by other firms. Such arrangements also help to ensure the continued receipt of research services while facilitating best execution in the trading process. The Investment Adviser believes such research services are useful in its investment decision-making process by, among other things, ensuring access to a variety of high quality research, access to individual analysts and availability of resources that the Investment Adviser might not be provided access to absent such arrangements.

On occasions when an Investment Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security or other financial instruments to be in the best interest of a Fund as well as its other customers (including any other fund or other investment company or advisory account for which such Investment Adviser acts as investment adviser or sub-investment adviser), the Investment Adviser, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may aggregate the securities to be sold or purchased for the Fund with those to be sold or purchased for such other customers in order to obtain the best net price and most favorable execution under the circumstances. In such event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by the Investment Adviser in the manner it considers to be equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the Fund and such other customers. In some instances, this procedure may adversely affect the price and size of the position obtainable for the Fund.

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When creation or redemption transactions consist of cash, the transactions may require the Fund to contemporaneously transact with broker-dealers for purchases of Deposit Securities or sales of Fund Securities (as defined above), as applicable. Depending on the timing of the transactions and certain other factors, such transactions will generally be placed with the purchasing or redeeming Authorized Participant in its capacity as a broker-dealer or with its affiliated broker-dealer and conditioned upon an agreement with the Authorized Participant or its affiliated broker-dealer to transact at guaranteed prices in order to reduce transaction costs incurred as a consequence of settling creation or redemption baskets in cash rather than in-kind.

Specifically, following the Fund's receipt of a creation or redemption order, to the extent such purchases or redemptions consist of a cash portion, the Fund will generally enter an order with the Authorized Participant or affiliated broker-dealer to purchase or sell the Deposit Securities or Fund Securities, as applicable. Such Authorized Participant or its affiliated broker-dealer will be required to guarantee that the Fund will achieve execution of its order at a price at least as favorable to the Fund as the Fund's valuation of the Deposit Securities/Fund Securities used for purposes of calculating the NAV applied to the creation or redemption transaction giving rise to the order, which will depend on the results achieved by the executing firm and will vary depending on market activity, timing and a variety of other factors.

An Authorized Participant is required to deposit an amount with the Fund in order to ensure that the execution of the order on the terms noted above will be honored on orders arising from creation transactions executed by an Authorized Participant or its affiliate as broker-dealer. If the broker-dealer executing the order achieves executions in market transactions at a price equal to or more favorable than the Fund's valuation of the Deposit Securities, the Authorized Participant generally will retain the benefit of the favorable executions and the deposit is returned to the Authorized Participant. If, however, the broker-dealer executing the order is unable to achieve a price at least equal to the Fund's valuation of the securities, the Fund retains the portion of the deposit equal to the full amount of the execution shortfall (including any taxes, brokerage commissions or other costs) and may require the Authorized Participant to deposit any additional amount required to cover the full amount of the actual execution transaction.

An Authorized Participant agrees to pay the shortfall amount in order to ensure that a guarantee on execution will be honored for brokerage orders arising from redemption transactions executed by an Authorized Participant or its affiliate as broker-dealer. If the broker- dealer executing the order achieves executions in market transactions at a price equal to or more favorable than the Fund's valuation of the Fund Securities, the Authorized Participant generally will retain the benefit of the favorable executions. If, however, the broker-dealer is unable to achieve executions in market transactions at a price at least equal to the Fund's valuation of the securities, the Fund will be entitled to the portion of the offset equal to the full amount of the execution shortfall (including any taxes, brokerage commissions or other costs).

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Investment Adviser reserves the right to place transactions associated with cash or partial cash creation or redemption transactions with a broker-dealer unaffiliated with the purchasing or redeeming Authorized Participant under certain circumstances.

Commission rates in the U.S. are established pursuant to negotiations with the broker based on the quality and quantity of execution services provided by the broker in the light of generally prevailing rates. The allocation of orders among brokers and the commission rates paid are reviewed periodically by the Trustees. The amount of brokerage commissions paid by the Fund may vary substantially from year to year because of differences in shareholder purchase and redemption activity, portfolio turnover rates and other factors.

For the fiscal years ended August 31, 2024, August 31, 2023, and August 31, 2022, each Fund (based on the brokerage commissions paid by its predecessor fund) paid brokerage commissions as follows:

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| | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fiscal Year**<br> **Ended**<br> **August 31,**<br> **2024** | **Total**<br>**Brokerage<br>Commissions<br>Paid** | **Total Brokerage<br>Commissions Paid<br>to Goldman<br>Sachs<sup>(1)</sup>** | **Total Brokerage<br>Commissions Paid<br>to Goldman<br>Sachs<sup>(1)</sup>** | **Total Amount of<br>Transactions on which<br>Commissions Paid<sup>(2)</sup>** | **Total Amount of<br>Transactions on which<br>Commissions Paid<sup>(2)</sup>** | **Amount of<br>Transactions<br>Effected through<br>Brokers Providing<br>Proprietary<br>Research<sup>(3)</sup>** | **Total**<br>**Brokerage<br>Commissions<br>Paid for<br>Proprietary<br>Research<sup>(3)</sup>** |
|  Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | $74985 | $2406 | 3.21% | $356244813 | 2.17% | $358752590 | $77541 |
|  Growth Opportunities ETF | $22754 | $545 | 2.40% | $123618787 | 3.86% | $123796918 | $22725 |
|  Technology Opportunities ETF | $166584 | $18178 | 10.91% | $526370798 | 9.39% | $528544302 | $166795 |
|  Value Opportunities ETF | $19953 | $941 | 4.72% | $85857023 | 4.28% | $84752669 | $20038 |

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| **Fiscal Year**<br> **Ended August 31,**<br> **2023** | **Total<br>Brokerage<br>Commissions<br>Paid** | **Total Brokerage<br>Commissions Paid<br>to Goldman Sachs<sup>(1)</sup>** | **Total Brokerage<br>Commissions Paid<br>to Goldman Sachs<sup>(1)</sup>** | **Total Amount of<br>Transactions on which<br>Commissions Paid<sup>(2)</sup>** | **Total Amount of<br>Transactions on which<br>Commissions Paid<sup>(2)</sup>** | **Amount of<br>Transactions<br>Effected<br>through<br>Brokers<br>Providing<br>Proprietary<br>Research<sup>(3)</sup>** | **Total Brokerage<br>Commissions<br>Paid for<br>Proprietary<br>Research<sup>(3)</sup>** |
|  Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | $9110 |  | 0% | $81800918 | 0% | $79324486 | $9134 |
|  Growth Opportunities ETF | $13983 | $824 | 6% | $109449250 | 3% | $101342502 | $12541 |
|  Technology Opportunities ETF | $130225 | $24904 | 19% | $496435050 | 12% | $450867177 | $123074 |
|  Value Opportunities ETF | $11219 | $354 | 3% | $73892269 | 2% | $64019076 | $10228 |

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|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fiscal Year**<br> **Ended August**<br> **31, 2022** | **Total<br>Brokerage<br>Commissions<br>Paid** | **Total Brokerage<br>Commissions Paid<br>to Goldman Sachs<sup>(1)</sup>** | **Total Brokerage<br>Commissions Paid<br>to Goldman Sachs<sup>(1)</sup>** | **Total Amount of<br>Transactions on which<br>Commissions Paid<sup>(2)</sup>** | **Total Amount of<br>Transactions on which<br>Commissions Paid<sup>(2)</sup>** | **Amount of<br>Transactions<br>Effected<br>through<br>Brokers<br>Providing<br>Proprietary<br>Research<sup>(3)</sup>** | **Total Brokerage<br>Commissions<br>Paid for<br>Proprietary<br>Research<sup>(3)</sup>** |
|  Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | $8525 | $9 | 0% | $46442720 | 0% | $45570278 | $8389 |
|  Growth Opportunities ETF | $16737 |  | 0% | $115480747 | 0% | $113081758 | $16397 |
|  Technology Opportunities ETF | $156052 | $8883 | 6% | $834473754 | 8% | $812699329 | $151104 |
|  Value Opportunities ETF | $14500 |  | 0% | $67702969 | 0% | $67561951 | $14311 |

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|:---|:---|
| *1* | *Percentages refer to percentage of total commissions paid to Goldman Sachs.*  |

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|:---|:---|
| *2* | *Percentages refer to percentage of total amount of transactions involving the payment of commissions effected through Goldman Sachs.*  |

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|:---|:---|
| *3* | *The information above reflects the full commission amounts paid to brokers that provide research to the Investment Adviser. Only a portion of such commission pays for research and the remainder of such commission is to compensate the broker for execution services, commitment of capital and other services related to the execution of brokerage transactions.*  |

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Subject to the above considerations, the Investment Adviser may use Goldman Sachs or an affiliate as a broker for the Funds. In order for Goldman Sachs or an affiliate, acting as agent, to effect securities or futures transactions for the Funds, the commissions, fees or other remuneration received by Goldman Sachs or an affiliate must be reasonable and fair compared to the commissions, fees or other remuneration received by other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving similar securities or futures contracts. Furthermore, the Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, have adopted procedures which are reasonably designed to provide that any commissions, fees or other remuneration paid to Goldman Sachs are consistent with the foregoing standard. Brokerage transactions with Goldman Sachs are also subject to such fiduciary standards as may be imposed upon Goldman Sachs by applicable law.

See "Custodian, Sub-Custodians and Provider of Administrative Services" for information regarding foreign exchange transaction services and execution of trades in connection with certain creation and redemption transactions.

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**DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE** 

In accordance with procedures approved by the Trustees, the NAV per share of the Fund's Shares is calculated by a Fund's provider of administrative services by determining the value of the net assets attributed to the Fund and dividing by the number of outstanding shares of the Fund. All securities are generally valued on each Business Day as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE (normally, but not always, 4:00p.m. Eastern time), or such other times as the NYSE or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations System ("NASDAQ") market may officially close.

For the purpose of calculating the NAV per share of the Funds, investments are valued under valuation procedures approved by the Trustees. With respect to a Fund's investments that do not have readily available market quotations, the Trustees have designated the Investment Adviser as the valuation designee to perform fair valuations pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the Investment Company Act. Portfolio securities of a Fund are generally valued as follows: (i) equity securities listed on any U.S. or foreign stock exchange or on the NASDAQ will be valued at the last sale price or the official closing price on the exchange or system in which they are principally traded on the valuation date. If there is no sale or official closing price on the valuation date, equity securities may be valued at the closing bid price for long positions or the closing ask price for short positions at the time closest to, but no later than, the NAV calculation time. If the relevant exchange or system has not closed by the above mentioned time for determining the Fund's NAV, the securities will be valued at the last sale price or official closing price, or if not available at the bid price at the time the NAV is determined; (ii) over-the-counter equity securities not quoted on NASDAQ will be valued at the last sale price on the valuation day or, if no sale occurs, at the last bid price for long positions or the last ask price for short positions at the time closest to, but no later than, the NAV calculation time; (iii) equity securities for which no prices are obtained under sections (i) or (ii), including those for which a pricing source supplies no exchange quotation or a quotation that is believed by the Investment Adviser to not represent fair value, will be valued through the use of broker quotes, if possible; (iv) fixed income securities will be valued via electronic feeds from independent pricing services to the administrator using evaluated prices provided by a recognized pricing service and dealer-supplied quotations. Fixed income securities for which a pricing service either does not supply a quotation or supplies a quotation that is believed by the Investment Adviser to not represent fair value, will be valued through the use of broker quotes, if possible; (v) fixed income securities for which vendor pricing or broker quotes are not available will be valued by the Investment Adviser based on fair valuation policies that incorporate matrix pricing or valuation models, which utilize certain inputs and assumptions, including, but not limited to, yield or price with respect to comparable fixed income securities and various other factors; (vi) investments in open-end registered investment companies (excluding investments in ETFs) and investments in private funds are valued based on the NAV of those registered investment companies or private funds (which may use fair value pricing as discussed in their prospectus or offering memorandum); (vii) spot foreign exchange rates will be valued using a pricing service at the time closest to the time used for the index calculation of the Fund and forward foreign currency contracts will be valued by adding forward points provided by an independent pricing service to the spot foreign exchange rates and interpolating based upon maturity dates of each contract or by using outright forward rates, where available (if quotations are unavailable from a pricing service or, if the quotations by the Investment Adviser are believed to be inaccurate, the contracts will be valued by calculating the mean between the last bid and ask quotations supplied by at least one dealer in such contracts); (viii) exchange-traded futures contracts will be valued at the last published settlement price on the exchange where they are principally traded (or, if a sale occurs after the last published settlement price but before the NAV calculation time, at the last sale price at the time closest to, but no later than, the NAV calculation time); (ix) exchange-traded options contracts with settlement prices will be valued at the last published settlement price on the exchange where they are principally traded (or, if a sale occurs after the last published settlement price but before the NAV calculation time, at the last sale price at the time closest to, but no later than, the NAV calculation time); (x) exchange-traded options contracts without settlement prices will be valued at the midpoint of the bid and ask prices on the exchange where they are principally traded (or, in the absence of two-way trading, at the last bid price for long positions and the last ask price for short positions at the time closest to, but no later than, the NAV calculation time); (xi) over-the-counter derivatives, including, but not limited to, interest rate swaps, credit default swaps, total return index swaps, put/call option combos, total return basket swaps, index volatility and foreign exchange ("FX") variance swaps, will be valued at their fair value as determined using counterparty supplied valuations, an independent pricing service or valuation models which use market data inputs supplied by an independent pricing service; and (xii) all other instruments, including those for which a pricing service supplies no exchange quotation/price or a quotation that is believed by the Investment Adviser to be inaccurate, will be valued in accordance with the valuation procedures approved by the Board of Trustees. Securities may also be valued at fair value in accordance with procedures approved by the Board of Trustees where a Fund's provider of administrative services is unable for other reasons to facilitate pricing of individual securities or calculate the Fund's NAV, or if the Investment Adviser believes that such quotations do not accurately reflect fair value. Fair values determined in accordance with the valuation procedures approved by the Board of Trustees may be based on subjective judgments and it is possible that the prices resulting from such valuation procedures may differ materially from the value realized on a sale.

The value of all assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies will be converted into U.S. dollar values at foreign currency exchange rates generally determined as of 4:00 p.m. Greenwich Mean Time. If such quotations are not available, the rate of exchange will be determined in good faith under procedures approved by the Board of Trustees.

Generally, trading in securities on European, Asian and Far Eastern securities exchanges and on over-the-counter markets in these regions is substantially completed at various times prior to the close of business on each Business Day in New York (i.e., a day on which the NYSE is open for trading). In addition, European, Asian or Far Eastern securities trading generally or in a particular country or countries may not take place on all Business Days in New York. Furthermore, trading takes place in various foreign markets on days which are not Business Days in New York and days on which a Fund's NAV is not calculated. Such calculation does not take place contemporaneously with the determination of the prices of the majority of the portfolio securities used in such calculation.

The Investment Adviser, consistent with its procedures and applicable regulatory guidance, may (but need not) determine to make an adjustment to the previous closing prices of either domestic or foreign securities in light of significant events, to reflect what it believes to be the fair value of the securities at the time of determining a Fund's NAV. Significant events that could affect a large number of securities in a particular market may include, but are not limited to: situations relating to one or more single issuers in a market sector; significant fluctuations in U.S. or foreign markets; market dislocations; market disruptions or unscheduled market closings; equipment failures; natural or man-made disasters or acts of God; armed conflicts; governmental actions or other developments; as well as the same or similar events which may affect specific issuers or the securities markets even though not tied directly to the securities markets. Other significant events that could relate to a single issuer may include, but are not limited to: corporate actions such as reorganizations, mergers and buy-outs; corporate announcements, including those relating to earnings, products and regulatory news; significant litigation; ratings downgrades; bankruptcies; and trading limits or suspensions.

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In general, fair value represents a good faith approximation of the current value of an asset and may be used when there is no public market or possibly no market at all for an asset. A security that is fair valued may be valued at a price higher or lower than actual market quotations or the value determined by other funds using their own fair valuation procedures or by other investors. The fair value of an asset may not be the price at which that asset is ultimately sold.

The proceeds received by a Fund and each other series of the Trust from the issue or sale of its Shares, and all net investment income, realized and unrealized gain and proceeds thereof, subject only to the rights of creditors, will be specifically allocated to the Fund or particular series and constitute the underlying assets of the Fund or series. The underlying assets of a Fund will be segregated on the books of account, and will be charged with the liabilities in respect of the Fund and with a share of the general liabilities of the Trust. Expenses of the Trust with respect to a Fund and the other series of the Trust are generally allocated in proportion to the NAVs of the respective Fund except where allocations of expenses can otherwise be fairly made.

Each Fund relies on various sources to calculate its NAV. The ability of a Fund's provider of administrative services to calculate the NAV per share of the Fund is subject to operational risks associated with processing or human errors, systems or technology failures, cyber attacks and errors caused by third party service providers, data sources, or trading counterparties. Such failures may result in delays in the calculation of a Fund's NAV and/or the inability to calculate NAV over extended time periods. The Funds may be unable to recover any losses associated with such failures. In addition, if the third-party service providers and/or data sources upon which a Fund directly or indirectly relies to calculate its NAV or price individual securities are unavailable or otherwise unable to calculate the NAV correctly, it may be necessary for alternative procedures to be utilized to price the securities at the time of determining the Fund's NAV.

**SHARES OF THE TRUST** 

Each Fund is a series of Goldman Sachs ETF Trust, a Delaware statutory trust formed on December 16, 2009.

The Trustees have authority under the Trust's Declaration of Trust to create and classify shares of beneficial interest in separate series, without further action by shareholders. The Trustees also have authority to classify and reclassify any series of shares into one or more classes of shares. As of [ ], the Trustees have authorized the issuance of one class of shares of each Fund ("Shares"). Additional series may be added in the future.

Each Share of a Fund represents a proportionate interest in the assets belonging to the applicable class of the Fund and all expenses of the Fund are borne at the same rate by each class of shares. In addition, the fees and expenses set forth below for Shares may be subject to fee waivers or reimbursements, as discussed more fully in the Funds' Prospectus.

Certain aspects of the Shares may be altered after advance notice to shareholders if it is deemed necessary in order to satisfy certain tax regulatory requirements.

When issued for the consideration described in the Funds' Prospectus, shares are fully paid and non-assessable. The Trustees may, however, cause shareholders, or shareholders of a particular series or class, to pay certain custodian, transfer agency, shareholder servicing or similar charges by setting off the same against declared but unpaid dividends or by reducing share ownership (or by both means). In the event of liquidation, shareholders are entitled to share pro rata in the net assets of the Funds available for distribution to such shareholders. All shares are freely transferable and have no preemptive, subscription or conversion rights. The Trustees may require Shareholders to redeem Shares for certain reasons under terms set by the Trustees.

The Act requires that where more than one series of shares exists, each series must be preferred over all other series in respect of assets specifically allocated to such series. In addition, Rule 18f-2 under the Act provides that any matter required to be submitted by the provisions of the Act or applicable state law, or otherwise, to the holders of the outstanding voting securities of an investment company such as the Trust shall not be deemed to have been effectively acted upon unless approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of each series affected by such matter. Rule 18f-2 further provides that a series shall be deemed to be affected by a matter unless the interests of each series in the matter are substantially identical or the matter does not affect any interest of such series. However, Rule 18f-2 exempts the selection of independent public accountants, the approval of principal distribution contracts and the election of trustees from the separate voting requirements of Rule 18f-2.

The Trust is not required to hold annual meetings of shareholders and does not intend to hold such meetings. In the event that a meeting of shareholders is held, each Share of the Trust will be entitled, as determined by the Trustees without the vote or consent of the shareholders, either to one vote for each share or to one vote for each dollar of NAV represented by such share on all matters presented to shareholders including the election of Trustees (this method of voting being referred to as "dollar based voting"). However, to the extent required by the Act or otherwise determined by the Trustees, series and classes of the Trust will vote separately from each other. Shareholders of the Trust do not have cumulative voting rights in the election of Trustees. Meetings of shareholders of the Trust, or any series or class thereof, may be called by the Trustees, certain officers or upon the written request of holders of 10% or more of the shares entitled to vote at such meetings. The Trustees will call a special meeting of shareholders for the purpose of electing Trustees, if, at anytime, less than a majority of Trustees holding office at the time were elected by shareholders. The shareholders of the Trust will have voting rights only with respect to the limited number of matters specified in the Declaration of Trust and such other matters as the Trustees may determine or may be required by law.

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The Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification of Trustees, officers, employees and agents of the Trust unless the recipient is adjudicated (i) to be liable by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of such person's office or (ii) not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that such person's actions were in the best interest of the Trust. The Declaration of Trust provides that, if any shareholder or former shareholder of any series is held personally liable solely by reason of being or having been a shareholder and not because of the shareholder's acts or omissions or for some other reason, the shareholder or former shareholder (or the shareholder's heirs, executors, administrators, legal representatives or general successors) shall be held harmless from and indemnified against all loss and expense arising from such liability. The Trust, acting on behalf of any affected series, must, upon request by such shareholder, assume the defense of any claim made against such shareholder for any act or obligation of the series and satisfy any judgment thereon from the assets of the series.

The Declaration of Trust states that the Trust shall continue without limitation of time but, Trustees may without Shareholder approval (i) sell and convey all or substantially all of the assets of the Trust or any affected Series to another trust, partnership, association, or corporation, or to a separate series of shares thereof, organized under the laws of any state, which trust, partnership, association, or corporation is an open-end management investment company as defined in the Investment Company Act, or is a series thereof, for adequate consideration which may include the assumption of all outstanding obligations, taxes, and other liabilities, accrued or contingent, of the Trust or any affected Series, and which may include shares of beneficial interest, stock, or other ownership interests of such trust, partnership, association, or corporation or of a series thereof; or (ii) at any time, sell and convert into money all of the assets of the Trust or any affected series.

The Declaration of Trust authorizes the Trustees, without shareholder approval, to cause the Trust, or any series thereof, to merge, reorganize or consolidate with any corporation, association, trust or other organization or sell or exchange all or substantially all of the property belonging to the Trust or any series thereof. In addition, the Trustees, without shareholder approval, may adopt a master-feeder structure by investing all or a portion of the assets of a series of the Trust in the securities of another open-end investment company with substantially the same investment objective, restrictions and policies.

The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to amend the Declaration of Trust without a shareholder vote. However, shareholders of the Trust have the right to vote on any amendment (i) that would adversely affect the voting rights of shareholders; (ii) that is required by law to be approved by shareholders; (iii) that would amend the provisions of the Declaration of Trust regarding amendments and supplements thereto; or (iv) that the Trustees determine to submit to shareholders.

**Shareholder and Trustee Liability** 

Under Delaware Law, the shareholders of the Funds are not generally subject to liability for the debts or obligations of the Trust. Similarly, Delaware law provides that a series of the Trust will not be liable for the debts or obligations of any other series of the Trust. However, no similar statutory or other authority limiting statutory trust shareholder liability exists in other states. As a result, to the extent that a Delaware statutory trust or a shareholder is subject to the jurisdiction of courts of such other states, the courts may not apply Delaware law and may thereby subject the Delaware statutory trust shareholders to liability. To guard against this risk, the Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of a series. Notice of such disclaimer will normally be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered into or executed by a series of the Trust. The Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification by the relevant series for all loss suffered by a shareholder as a result of an obligation of the series. The Declaration of Trust also provides that a series shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the series and satisfy any judgment thereon. In view of the above, the risk of personal liability of shareholders of a Delaware statutory trust is remote.

In addition to the requirements under Delaware law, the Declaration of Trust provides that shareholders of a series may bring a derivative action on behalf of the series only if the following conditions are met: (a) shareholders eligible to bring such derivative action under Delaware law who collectively hold at least 10% of the outstanding shares of the series, or 10% of the outstanding shares of the class to which such action relates, shall join in the request for the Trustees to commence such action; and (b) the Trustees must be afforded a reasonable amount of time to consider such shareholder request and to investigate the basis of such claim. The Trustees will be entitled to retain counsel or other advisers in considering the merits of the request and may require an undertaking by the shareholders making such request to reimburse the series for the expense of any such advisers in the event that the Trustees determine not to bring such action.

The Declaration of Trust further provides that the Trustees will not be liable for errors of judgment or mistakes of fact or law, but nothing in the Declaration of Trust protects a Trustee against liability to which he or she would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.

**TAXATION** 

The following are certain additional U.S. federal income tax considerations generally affecting the Funds and the purchase, ownership and disposition of shares of a Fund that are not described in the Prospectus. The discussions below and in the Prospectus are only summaries and are not intended as substitutes for careful tax planning. They do not address special tax rules applicable to certain classes of investors, such as tax-exempt entities, insurance companies and financial institutions. Each prospective shareholder is urged to consult his or her own tax adviser with respect to the specific federal, state, local and foreign tax consequences of investing in each Fund. The summary is based on the laws in effect on [ ], which are subject to change. Future changes in tax laws may adversely impact a Fund and its shareholders.

**<u>Fund Taxation</u>**

Each Fund is treated as a separate taxable entity and intends to elect to be treated and intends to qualify for each of its taxable years as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of Subtitle A, Chapter 1, of the Code.

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There are certain tax requirements that each Fund must follow if it is to avoid federal taxation. In its efforts to adhere to these requirements, the Funds may have to limit their investment activities in some types of instruments. Qualification as a regulated investment company under the Code requires, among other things, that (i) the Fund derive at least 90% of its gross income for each taxable year from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stocks or securities or foreign currencies, net income from qualified publicly traded partnerships or other income (including but not limited to gains from options, futures, and forward contracts) derived with respect to the Fund's business of investing in stocks, securities or currencies (the "90% gross income test"); and (ii) the Fund diversify its holdings so that, in general, at the close of each quarter of its taxable year, (a) at least 50% of the fair market value of the Fund's total (gross) assets is comprised of cash, cash items, U.S. Government Securities, securities of other regulated investment companies and other securities limited in respect of any one issuer to an amount not greater in value than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets and to not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (b) not more than 25% of the value of its total (gross) assets is invested in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government Securities and securities of other regulated investment companies), two or more issuers controlled by the Fund and engaged in the same, similar or related trades or businesses, or certain publicly traded partnerships.

For purposes of the 90% gross income test, income that a Fund earns from equity interests in certain entities that are not treated as corporations or as qualified publicly traded partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes (e.g., partnerships or trusts) will generally have the same character for the Fund as in the hands of such an entity; consequently, a Fund may be required to limit its equity investments in any such entities that earn fee income, rental income, or other nonqualifying income. In addition, future Treasury Regulations could provide that qualifying income under the 90% gross income test will not include gains from foreign currency transactions that are not directly related to the Fund's principal business of investing in stock or securities or options and futures with respect to stock or securities. Using foreign currency positions or entering into foreign currency options, futures and forward or swap contracts for purposes other than hedging currency risk with respect to securities in a Fund's portfolio or anticipated to be acquired may not qualify as "directly-related" under these tests.

If a Fund complies with the foregoing provisions, then in any taxable year in which the Fund distributes, in compliance with the Code's timing and other requirements, an amount at least equal to the sum of 90% of its "investment company taxable income" (which includes dividends, taxable interest, taxable accrued original issue discount and market discount income, income from securities lending, any net short-term capital gain in excess of net long-term capital loss, certain net realized foreign exchange gains and any other taxable income other than "net capital gain," as defined below, and is reduced by deductible expenses), plus 90% of the excess of its gross tax-exempt interest income (if any) over certain disallowed deductions, the Fund (but not its shareholders) will be relieved of federal income tax on any income of the Fund, including long-term capital gains, distributed to shareholders. If, instead, a Fund retains any investment company taxable income or net capital gain (the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss), it will be subject to a tax at regular corporate rates on the amount retained. Because there are some uncertainties regarding the computation of the amounts deemed distributed to Fund shareholders for these purposes — including, in particular, uncertainties regarding the portion, if any, of amounts paid in redemption of Fund shares that should be treated as such distributions — there can be no assurance that the Fund will avoid corporate-level tax in each year.

Each Fund generally intends to distribute for each taxable year to its shareholders all or substantially all of its investment company taxable income, net capital gain and any tax-exempt interest. Exchange control or other foreign laws, regulations or practices may restrict repatriation of investment income, capital or the proceeds of securities sales by foreign investors and may therefore make it more difficult for the Funds to satisfy the distribution requirements described above, as well as the excise tax distribution requirements described below. The Funds generally expect, however, to be able to obtain sufficient cash to satisfy those requirements, from new investors, the sale of securities or other sources. If for any taxable year a Fund does not qualify as a regulated investment company, it will be taxed on all of its taxable income and net capital gain at corporate rates, and its distributions to shareholders will generally be taxable as ordinary dividends to the extent of its current and accumulated earnings and profits.

If a Fund retains any net capital gain, the Fund may designate the retained amount as undistributed capital gains in a notice to its shareholders who (1) if subject to U.S. federal income tax on long-term capital gains, will be required to include in income for federal income tax purposes, as long-term capital gain, their shares of that undistributed amount, and (2) will be entitled to credit their proportionate shares of the tax paid by the Fund against their U.S. federal income tax liabilities, if any, and to claim refunds to the extent the credit exceeds those liabilities. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the tax basis of shares owned by a shareholder of the Fund will be increased by the amount of any such undistributed net capital gain included in the shareholder's gross income and decreased by the federal income tax paid by the Fund on that amount of net capital gain.

To avoid a 4% federal excise tax, each Fund must generally distribute (or be deemed to have distributed) by December 31 of each calendar year an amount at least equal to the sum of 98% of its taxable ordinary income (taking into account certain deferrals and elections) for the calendar year, 98.2% of the excess of its capital gains over its capital losses (generally computed on the basis of the one-year period ending on October 31 of such year), and all taxable ordinary income and the excess of capital gains over capital losses for all previous years that were not distributed for those years and on which the Fund paid no federal income tax. For federal income tax purposes, dividends declared by a Fund in October, November or December to shareholders of record on a specified date in such a month and paid during January of the following year are taxable to such shareholders, and deductible by the Fund, as if paid on December 31 of the year declared. Each Fund anticipates that it will generally make timely distributions of income and capital gains in compliance with these requirements so that it will generally not be required to pay the excise tax.

For federal income tax purposes, each Fund is generally permitted to carry forward a net capital loss in any taxable year to offset its own capital gains, if any. These amounts are available to be carried forward to offset future capital gains to the extent permitted by the Code and applicable tax regulations.

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Gains and losses on the sale, lapse, or other termination of options and futures contracts, options thereon and certain forward contracts (except certain foreign currency options, forward contracts and futures contracts) will generally be treated as capital gains and losses. Certain of the futures contracts, forward contracts and options held by a Fund will be required to be "marked-to-market" for federal tax purposes — that is, treated as having been sold at their fair market value on the last day of the Fund's taxable year (or, for excise tax purposes, on the last day of the relevant period). These provisions may require a Fund to recognize income or gains without a concurrent receipt of cash. Any gain or loss recognized on actual or deemed sales of these futures contracts, forward contracts, or options will (except for certain foreign currency options, forward contracts, and futures contracts) be treated as 60% long-term capital gain or loss and 40% short-term capital gain or loss. As a result of certain hedging transactions entered into by a Fund, that Fund may be required to defer the recognition of losses on futures contracts, forward contracts, and options or underlying securities or foreign currencies to the extent of any unrecognized gains on related positions held by the Fund, and the characterization of gains or losses as long-term or short-term may be changed. The tax provisions described in this paragraph may affect the amount, timing and character of the Fund's distributions to shareholders. The application of certain requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company and the application of certain other tax rules may be unclear in some respects in connection with certain investment practices such as dollar rolls, or investments in certain derivatives, including interest rate swaps, floors, caps and collars, currency swaps, total return swaps, mortgage swaps, index swaps, forward contracts and structured notes. As a result, that Fund may therefore be required to limit its investments in such transactions and it is also possible that the IRS may not agree with the Fund's tax treatment of such transactions. In addition, the tax treatment of derivatives, and certain other investments, may be affected by future legislation, Treasury Regulations and guidance issued by the IRS that could affect the timing, character and amount of a Fund's income and gains and distributions to shareholders. Certain tax elections may be available to the Funds to mitigate some of the unfavorable consequences described in this paragraph.

Section 988 of the Code contains special tax rules applicable to certain foreign currency transactions and instruments, which may affect the amount, timing and character of income, gain or loss recognized by a Fund. Under these rules, foreign exchange gain or loss realized with respect to foreign currencies and certain futures and options thereon, foreign currency-denominated debt instruments, foreign currency forward contracts, and foreign currency-denominated payables and receivables will generally be treated as ordinary income or loss, although in some cases elections may be available that would alter this treatment. If a net foreign exchange loss treated as ordinary loss under Section 988 of the Code were to exceed a Fund's investment company taxable income (computed without regard to that loss) for a taxable year, the resulting loss would not be deductible by the Fund or its shareholders in future years. Net loss, if any, from certain foreign currency transactions or instruments could exceed net investment income otherwise calculated for accounting purposes, with the result being either no dividends being paid or a portion of a Fund's dividends being treated as a return of capital for tax purposes, nontaxable to the extent of a shareholder's tax basis in his shares and, once such basis is exhausted, generally giving rise to capital gains.

A Fund's investment, if any, in zero coupon securities, deferred interest securities, certain structured securities or other securities bearing original issue discount or, if a Fund elects to include market discount in income currently, market discount, as well as any "marked-to-market" gain from certain options, futures or forward contracts, as described above, will in many cases cause it to realize income or gain before the receipt of cash payments with respect to these securities or contracts. In order to obtain cash to enable it to distribute any such income or gain, to maintain its qualification as a regulated investment company and to avoid federal income and excise taxes, a Fund may be required to liquidate portfolio investments sooner than it might otherwise have done.

Investments in lower-rated securities may present special tax issues for a Fund to the extent actual or anticipated defaults may be more likely with respect to those kinds of securities. Tax rules are not entirely clear about issues such as when an investor in such securities may cease to accrue interest, original issue discount, or market discount; when and to what extent deductions may be taken for bad debts or worthless securities; how payments received on obligations in default should be allocated between principal and income; and whether exchanges of debt obligations in a workout context are taxable. These and other issues will generally need to be addressed by a Fund, in the event it invests in such securities, so as to seek to eliminate or to minimize any adverse tax consequences.

Each Fund anticipates that it may be subject to foreign taxes on its income (possibly including, in some cases, capital gains) from foreign securities. Tax conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate those foreign taxes in some cases. The Funds will not be eligible to elect to pass through foreign taxes to the shareholders but will be entitled to deduct such taxes in computing the amounts they are required to distribute.

If a Fund acquires stock (including, under proposed regulations, an option to acquire stock such as is inherent in a convertible bond) in certain foreign corporations that receive at least 75% of their annual gross income from passive sources (such as interest, dividends, rents, royalties or capital gain) or hold at least 50% of their assets in investments producing such passive income ("passive foreign investment companies"), the Fund could be subject to federal income tax and additional interest charges on "excess distributions" received from such companies or gain from the sale of stock in such companies, even if all income or gain actually received by the Fund is timely distributed to its shareholders. The Fund will not be able to pass through to its shareholders any credit or deduction for such a tax. In some cases, elections may be available that will ameliorate these adverse tax consequences, but those elections will require the Fund to include each year certain amounts as income or gain (subject to the distribution requirements described above) without a concurrent receipt of cash. The Fund may attempt to limit and/or to manage its holdings in passive foreign investment companies to minimize its tax liability or maximize its return from these investments.

If a Fund invests in certain real estate investment trusts ("REITs") or in real estate mortgage investment conduit residual interests, a portion of the Fund's income may be classified as "excess inclusion income." A shareholder that is otherwise not subject to tax may be taxable on their share of any such excess inclusion income as "unrelated business taxable income." In addition, tax may be imposed on a Fund on the portion of any excess inclusion income allocable to any shareholders that are classified as disqualified organizations.

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**<u>Taxable U.S. Shareholders - Distributions</u>**

For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions by a Fund, whether reinvested in additional shares or paid in cash, generally will be taxable to shareholders who are subject to tax.

In general, distributions from investment company taxable income for the year will be taxable as ordinary income. However, distributions to noncorporate shareholders attributable to dividends received by the Funds from U.S. and certain foreign corporations will generally be taxed at the long-term capital gain rate (described below), as long as certain other requirements are met. For these lower rates to apply, the noncorporate shareholders must have owned their Fund shares for at least 61 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the Fund's ex-dividend date (or 91 days during the 181-day period beginning 90 days before the Fund's ex-dividend date in the case of certain preferred stock dividends paid by the Fund) and the Fund must also have owned the underlying stock for this same period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date for the stock (or 91 days during the 181-day period beginning 90 days before the Fund's ex-dividend date in the case of certain preferred stock dividends paid by the Fund). The amount of the Fund's taxable distributions that otherwise qualify for these lower rates may be reduced as a result of the Fund's securities lending activities, hedging activities or a high portfolio turnover rate.

Distributions reported to shareholders as derived from a Fund's dividend income, if any, that would be eligible for the dividends received deduction if the Fund were not a regulated investment company may be eligible for the dividends received deduction for corporate shareholders. The dividends received deduction, if available, is reduced to the extent the shares with respect to which the dividends are received are treated as debt-financed under federal income tax law and is eliminated if the shares are deemed to have been held for less than a minimum period, generally 46 days. The dividends received deduction also may be reduced as a result of the Fund's hedging activities, securities lending activities or a high portfolio turnover rate. The dividend may, if it is treated as an "extraordinary dividend" under the Code, reduce a shareholder's tax basis in its shares of the Fund. Capital gain dividends (i.e., dividends from net capital gain), if reported as such to shareholders, will be taxed to shareholders as long-term capital gain regardless of how long shares have been held by shareholders, but are not eligible for the dividends received deduction for corporations. The maximum individual rate applicable to long-term capital gains is generally either 15% or 20%, depending on whether the individual's income exceeds certain threshold amounts. Distributions, if any, that are in excess of a Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits will first reduce a shareholder's tax basis in his shares and, after such basis is reduced to zero, will generally constitute capital gains to a shareholder who holds his shares as capital assets.

Certain distributions reported by a Fund as Section 163(j) interest dividends may be treated as interest income by shareholders for purposes of the tax rules applicable to interest expense limitations under Section 163(j). Such treatment by the shareholder is generally subject to holding period requirements and other potential limitations, although the holding period requirements are generally not applicable to dividends declared by money market funds and certain other funds that declare dividends daily and pay such dividends on a monthly or more frequent basis. The amount that a Fund is eligible to report as a Section 163(j) dividend for a tax year is generally limited to the excess of the Fund's business interest income over the sum of the Fund's (i) business interest expense and (ii) other deductions properly allocable to the Fund's business interest income.

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Individuals (and certain other non-corporate entities) are generally eligible for a 20% deduction with respect to taxable ordinary dividends from REITs and certain taxable income from publicly traded partnerships through 2025. Treasury Regulations allow regulated investment companies to pass-through the deduction with respect to taxable ordinary dividends from REITs to shareholders. However, currently there is no mechanism to pass through the deductions with respect to income from publicly traded partnerships.

Different tax treatment, including penalties on certain excess contributions and deferrals, certain pre-retirement and post-retirement distributions and certain prohibited transactions, is accorded to accounts maintained as qualified retirement plans. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers for more information.

**<u>Taxable U.S. Shareholders - Sale of Shares</u>**

When a shareholder's shares are sold, redeemed or otherwise disposed of in a transaction that is treated as a sale for tax purposes, the shareholder will generally recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the shareholder's adjusted tax basis in the shares and the cash, or fair market value of any property, received. (To aid in computing that tax basis, a shareholder should generally retain its account statements for the period that it holds shares.) If the shareholder holds the shares as a capital asset at the time of sale, the character of the gain or loss should be capital, and treated as long-term if the shareholder's holding period is more than one year and short-term otherwise, subject to the rules below.

Certain special tax rules may apply to a shareholder's capital gains or losses on Fund shares. If a shareholder receives a capital gain dividend with respect to shares and such shares have a tax holding period of six months or less at the time of a sale or redemption of such shares, then any loss the shareholder realizes on the sale or redemption will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of such capital gain dividend. Additionally, any loss realized on a sale or redemption of shares of a Fund may be disallowed under "wash sale" rules to the extent the shares disposed of are replaced with other shares of the same Fund within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the shares are disposed of, such as pursuant to a dividend reinvestment in shares of the Fund. If disallowed, the loss will be reflected in an adjustment to the basis of the shares acquired. If a Fund redeems a shareholder in-kind rather than in cash, the shareholder would realize the same gain or loss as if the shareholder had been redeemed in cash. Further, the shareholder's basis in the securities received in the in-kind redemption would be the securities' fair market value on the date of the in-kind redemption.

**<u>Medicare Tax</u>**

An additional 3.8% Medicare tax is imposed on certain net investment income (including ordinary dividends and capital gain distributions received from a Fund and net gains from redemptions or other taxable dispositions of Fund shares) of U.S. individuals, estates and trusts to the extent that such person's "modified adjusted gross income" (in the case of an individual) or "adjusted gross income" (in the case of an estate or trust) exceeds certain threshold amounts.

**<u>Backup Withholding</u>**

Backup withholding may be required at a rate up to 24% with respect to distributions payable to shareholders who fail to provide their correct taxpayer identification number or to make required certifications, or who have been notified by the IRS that they are subject to backup withholding. Corporate shareholders and certain other shareholders specified in the Code generally are exempt from such backup withholding. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld may be credited against the shareholder's U.S. federal tax liability.

**<u>Non-U.S. Shareholders</u>**

The discussion above relates solely to U.S. federal income tax law as it applies to "U.S. persons" subject to tax under such law.

Except as discussed below, distributions to shareholders who, as to the United States, are not "U.S. persons," (i.e., are nonresident aliens, foreign corporations, fiduciaries of foreign trusts or estates or other non-U.S. investors) generally will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax at the rate of 30% on distributions treated as ordinary income unless the tax is reduced or eliminated pursuant to a tax treaty or the distributions are effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business of the shareholder; but distributions of net capital gain (the excess of any net long-term capital gains over any net short-term capital losses) including amounts retained by a Fund which are designated as undistributed capital gains, to such a non-U.S. shareholder will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax unless the distributions are effectively connected with the shareholder's trade or business in the United States or, in the case of a shareholder who is a nonresident alien individual, the shareholder is present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year and certain other conditions are met.

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Non-U.S. shareholders generally are not subject to U.S. federal income tax withholding on certain distributions of interest income and/or short-term capital gains that are reported by a Fund. It is expected that each Fund will generally report short-term gains, to the extent permitted, but the Fund does not intend to report any distributions attributable to interest income. Therefore, all distributions of interest income will be subject to withholding when paid to non-U.S. investors.

Any capital gain realized by a non-U.S. shareholder upon a sale or redemption of shares of a Fund will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax unless the gain is effectively connected with the shareholder's trade or business in the U.S., or in the case of a shareholder who is a nonresident alien individual, the shareholder is present in the U.S. for 183 days or more during the taxable year and certain other conditions are met.

Non-U.S. persons who fail to furnish the proper IRS Form W-8 (i.e., W-8BEN, W-8BEN-E, W-8ECI, W-8IMY or W-8EXP), or an acceptable substitute, may be subject to backup withholding at a 24% rate on dividends (including capital gain dividends) and on the proceeds of redemptions and exchanges. Also, non-U.S. shareholders of a Fund may be subject to U.S. estate tax with respect to their Fund shares.

Withholding of U.S. tax (at a 30% rate) is required with respect to payments of dividends made to certain non-U.S. entities that fail to comply (or be deemed compliant) with extensive reporting and withholding requirements designed to inform the Treasury of U.S.- owned foreign investment accounts. Shareholders may be requested to provide additional information to enable the applicable withholding agent to determine whether withholding is required.

Each shareholder who is not a U.S. person should consult his or her tax adviser regarding the U.S. and non-U.S. tax consequences of ownership of shares of, and receipt of distributions from, the Fund.

**<u>Creation Units</u>**

As a result of U.S. federal income tax requirements, the Trust on behalf of each Fund, has the right to reject an order for a creation of shares if the creator (or group of creators) would, upon obtaining the shares so ordered, own 80% or more of the outstanding shares of a Fund and if, pursuant to Section 351 of the Code, the Fund would have a basis in the Deposit Securities different from the market value of such securities on the date of deposit. The Trust also has the right to require information necessary to determine beneficial share ownership for purposes of the 80% determination. See "Creations and Redemptions."

**<u>State and Local Taxes</u>**

Each Fund may be subject to state or local taxes in jurisdictions in which the Fund is deemed to be doing business. In addition, in those states or localities that impose income taxes, the treatment of a Fund and its shareholders under those jurisdictions' tax laws may differ from the treatment under federal income tax laws, and investment in the Fund may have tax consequences for shareholders that are different from those of a direct investment in the Fund's portfolio securities. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisers concerning state and local tax matters.

**FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** 

The audited financial statements and related reports of [ ], independent registered public accounting firm for the predecessor funds, contained in the predecessor funds' filing on Form N-CSR for the most recent fiscal year end are hereby incorporated by reference. The audited financial statements in the predecessor funds' filing on Form N-CSR have been incorporated herein by reference in reliance upon such report given upon the authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing. No other parts of the applicable predecessor fund's Form N-CSR are incorporated by reference herein. A copy of the predecessor fund's financial information and the Funds' financial information (when available) may be obtained upon request and without charge by writing Goldman Sachs Funds, 71 South Wacker Drive, Suite 1200, Chicago, Illinois 60606 or by calling 1-800-621-2550.

**PROXY VOTING** 

The Trust, on behalf of the Funds, has delegated the voting of portfolio securities to the Investment Adviser. For client accounts for which the Investment Adviser has voting discretion, the Investment Adviser has adopted policies and procedures (the "Proxy Voting Policy") for the voting of proxies. Under the Proxy Voting Policy, the Investment Adviser's guiding principles in performing proxy voting are to make decisions that favor proposals that in the Investment Adviser's view tend to maximize a company's shareholder value and are not influenced by conflicts of interest. To implement these guiding principles for investments in publicly-traded equities, the Investment Adviser has developed customized proxy voting guidelines (the "Guidelines") that they generally apply when voting on behalf of client accounts. Attached as Appendix B is a summary of the Guidelines. These Guidelines address a wide variety of individual topics, including, among other matters, shareholder voting rights, anti-takeover defenses, board structures, the election of directors, executive and director compensation, reorganizations, mergers, issues of corporate social responsibility and various shareholder proposals. The Guidelines embody the positions and factors the Investment Adviser generally considers important in casting proxy votes.

The Proxy Voting Policy, including the Guidelines, is reviewed periodically to ensure that it continues to be consistent with the Investment Adviser's guiding principles.

The Investment Adviser has retained a third-party proxy voting service ("Proxy Service"), currently Institutional Shareholder Services, to assist in the implementation and administration of certain proxy voting-related functions including, without limitation, operational, recordkeeping and reporting services. The Proxy Service also prepares a written analysis and recommendation (a "Recommendation") of each proxy vote that

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reflects the Proxy Service's application of the Guidelines to particular proxy issues. While it is the Investment Adviser's policy generally to follow the Guidelines and Recommendations from the Proxy Service, the Investment Adviser's portfolio management teams ("Portfolio Management Teams") may on certain proxy votes seek approval to diverge from the Guidelines or a Recommendation by following an "override" process. Such decisions are subject to a review and approval process, including a determination that the decision is not influenced by any conflict of interest. A Portfolio Management Team that receives approval through the override process to cast a proxy vote that diverges from the Guidelines and/or a Recommendation may vote differently than other Portfolio Management Teams that did not seek to override that vote. In forming their views on particular matters, the Portfolio Management Teams are also permitted to consider applicable regional rules and practices, including codes of conduct and other guides, regarding proxy voting, in addition to the Guidelines and Recommendations. The Investment Adviser may hire other service providers to replace or supplement the Proxy Service with respect to any of the services the Investment Adviser currently receives from the Proxy Service.

GSAM conducts periodic due diligence meetings with the Proxy Service which include, but are not limited to, a review of the Proxy Service's general organizational structure, new developments with respect to research and technology, work flow improvements and internal due diligence with respect to conflicts of interest.

From time to time, the Investment Adviser may face regulatory, compliance, legal or logistical limits with respect to voting securities that they may purchase or hold for client accounts, which can affect the Investment Adviser's ability to vote such proxies, as well as the desirability of voting such proxies. Among other limits, federal, state and foreign regulatory restrictions or company specific ownership limits, as well as legal matters related to consolidated groups, may restrict the total percentage of an issuer's voting securities that the Investment Adviser can hold for clients and the nature of the Investment Adviser's voting in such securities. The Investment Adviser's ability to vote proxies may also be affected by, among other things: (i) late receipt of meeting notices; (ii) requirements to vote proxies in person: (iii) restrictions on a foreigner's ability to exercise votes; (iv) potential difficulties in translating the proxy; (v) requirements to provide local agents with unrestricted powers of attorney to facilitate voting instructions; and (vi) requirements that investors who exercise their voting rights surrender the right to dispose of their holdings for some specified period in proximity to the shareholder meeting.

The Investment Adviser has adopted policies and procedures designed to prevent conflicts of interest from influencing its proxy voting decisions that the Investment Adviser makes on behalf of a client account. These policies and procedures include the Investment Adviser's use of the Guidelines and Recommendations from the Proxy Service, the override approval process previously discussed, and the establishment of information barriers between the Investment Adviser and other businesses within The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. Notwithstanding such proxy voting policies and procedures, actual proxy voting decisions of the Investment Adviser may have the effect of benefitting the interests of other clients or businesses of other divisions or units of Goldman Sachs and/or its affiliates. To mitigate perceived or potential conflicts of interest when a proxy vote is for shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., the Investment Adviser will instruct that such shares be voted in the same proportion as other shares are voted with respect to a proposal.

Voting decisions with respect to fixed income securities and the securities of privately held issuers generally will be made by a Fund's managers based on their assessment of the particular transactions or other matters at issue.

Information regarding how a Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the Funds' website, or will be available as soon as reasonably practicable after the Funds' latest filing on Form N-PX with the SEC, at dfinview.com/GoldmanSachs and on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. This information may also be obtained upon request and without charge by calling Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC at the toll-free telephone number listed on the front cover of this SAI.

**PAYMENTS TO OTHERS (INCLUDING INTERMEDIARIES)** 

The Investment Adviser, and/or its affiliates may make payments to intermediaries from time to time to promote the sale, distribution and/or servicing of shares of a Fund (each, an "Intermediary"). Such payments ("Additional Payments") are made out of the Investment Adviser's, and/or its affiliates' own assets (which may come directly or indirectly from fees paid by a Fund), are not an additional charge to a Fund or its shareholders, and do not change the price paid by investors for the purchase of a Fund's shares or the amount a Fund receives as proceeds from such purchases.

The Additional Payments are intended to compensate Intermediaries for, among other things: marketing activities and presentations, educational training programs, the support or purchase of technology platforms/software and/or reporting systems. The Investment Adviser and/or its affiliates may also make payments to Intermediaries for certain printing, publishing and mailing costs associated with the Funds or materials relating to exchange-traded funds in general and/or for the provision of analytical or other data to GSAM or its affiliates. In addition, the Investment Adviser and/or its affiliates may make payments to Intermediaries that make Fund shares available to their clients or for otherwise promoting the Funds, including through provision of consultative services to GSAM or its affiliates relating to marketing of the Funds and/or sale of Fund shares. These may include Additional Payments to Intermediaries that agree not to charge their customers any trading commissions when those customers purchase or sell shares of a Fund online and/or that promote the availability of commission-free ETF trading to their customers.

GSAM and/or its affiliates may determine to make Additional Payments based on any number of metrics. For example, GSAM and/or its affiliates may make Additional Payments at year-end or other intervals in a fixed amount, an amount based upon an Intermediary's services at defined levels or an amount based on the Intermediary's net sales of one or more Goldman Sachs Funds in a year or other period or calculated in basis points based on average net assets attributed to the Intermediary.

These Additional Payments may be significant to certain Intermediaries, and may be an important factor in an Intermediary's willingness to support the sale of a Fund through its distribution system.

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The Investment Adviser and/or its affiliates may be motivated to make Additional Payments since they promote the sale of Fund shares to clients of Intermediaries and the retention of those investments by those clients. To the extent Intermediaries sell more shares of a Fund or retain shares of a Fund in their clients' accounts, the Investment Adviser benefits from the incremental management and other fees paid by a Fund with respect to those assets.

In addition, certain Intermediaries may have access to certain research and investment services from the Investment Adviser and/or its affiliates. Such research and investment services ("Additional Services") may include research reports; economic analysis; portfolio analysis, portfolio construction and similar tools and software; business planning services; certain marketing and investor education materials; and strategic asset allocation modeling. The Intermediary may not pay for these products or services or may only pay for a portion of the total cost of these products or services. The cost of the Additional Services and the particular services provided may vary from Intermediary to Intermediary.

The presence of these Additional Payments or Additional Services, the varying fee structure and the basis on which an Intermediary compensates its registered representatives or salespersons may create an incentive for a particular Intermediary, registered representative or salesperson to highlight, feature or recommend funds, including a Fund, or other investments based, at least in part, on the level of compensation paid. Additionally, if one fund sponsor makes greater distribution payments than another, an Intermediary may have an incentive to recommend one fund complex over another. Similarly, if an Intermediary receives more distribution assistance for one share class versus another, that Intermediary may have an incentive to recommend that share class. Because Intermediaries may be paid varying amounts per class of a fund for sub-transfer agency and related recordkeeping services, the service requirements of which also may vary by class, this may create an additional incentive for financial firms and their financial advisors to favor one fund complex over another, or one fund class over another. You should consider whether such incentives exist when evaluating any recommendations from an Intermediary to purchase or sell Shares of a Fund.

Your Intermediary may charge you additional fees or commissions other than those disclosed in the Prospectus. Shareholders should contact their Intermediary for more information about the Additional Payments or Additional Services they receive and any potential conflicts of interest, as well as for information regarding any fees and/or commissions it charges. For additional questions, please contact Goldman Sachs Funds at 1-800-621-2550.

Not described above are other subsidiaries of Goldman Sachs who may receive revenue from the Investment Adviser, and/or its affiliates through intra-company compensation arrangements and for financial, distribution, administrative and operational services.

Furthermore, the Investment Adviser and/or its affiliates may, to the extent permitted by applicable regulations, sponsor various trainings and educational programs and reimburse investors for certain expenses incurred in connection with accessing the Fund through portal arrangements. The Investment Adviser and its affiliates may also pay for the travel expenses, meals, lodging and entertainment of Intermediaries and their salespersons and guests in connection with educational, sales and promotional programs subject to applicable FINRA regulations. Other compensation may also be offered from time to time to the extent not prohibited by applicable federal or state laws or FINRA regulations. This compensation is not included in, and is made in addition to, the Additional Payments described above.

**OTHER INFORMATION** 

**Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings Information and Portfolio Characteristics Information** 

The Trust has adopted a policy regarding the selective disclosure of portfolio holdings information and portfolio characteristics information. The policy seeks to (1) ensure that the disclosure of portfolio holdings information and portfolio characteristics information is in the best interest of Fund shareholders; and (2) address the conflicts of interest associated with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information and portfolio characteristics information. The policy provides that neither the Fund nor the Trust's officers or Trustees, nor its Investment Adviser or any agent, nor any employee thereof ("Fund Representative"), will disclose the Fund's portfolio holdings information or portfolio characteristics information to any person other than in accordance with the policy.

For purposes of the policy, "portfolio holdings information" means a Fund's actual portfolio holdings, as well as non-public information about its trading strategies, as applicable, or pending transactions. Portfolio holdings information does not include summary or statistical information which is derived from (but does not include) individual portfolio holdings ("portfolio characteristics information").

Under the policy, neither a Fund nor any Fund Representative may solicit or accept any compensation or other consideration in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information or portfolio characteristics information. A Fund Representative may generally provide portfolio holdings information and material portfolio characteristics information to third parties if such information has been included in a Fund's public filings with the SEC, disclosed on the Funds' publicly accessible website, publicly disseminated through the NSCC or is otherwise publicly available.

*Portfolio Holdings Information*. Each Fund's complete portfolio holdings are publicly disseminated through financial reporting and news services, including the Funds' publicly accessible Internet website (am.gs.com). In addition, a basket composition file, which includes the security names and share quantities or amounts to deliver in exchange for Fund shares and may overlap with actual or expected Fund holdings, is publicly disseminated via the NSCC.

As described above under "Creations and Redemptions," following close of trading on a business day and prior to the commencement of trading on the next business day, the Investment Adviser may post an Eligible Securities List on the Fund's website and disseminate the Eligible Securities List to market makers and Authorized Participants for the Fund. Such Eligible Securities List would consist of securities that the Investment Adviser would consider purchasing on such next business day as part of the strategy for the Fund.

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Portfolio holdings information that is not filed with the SEC, disclosed on the Funds' publicly available website, publicly disseminated through the NSCC or is otherwise publicly available may be provided to third parties (including, without limitation, individuals, institutional investors, intermediaries that sell shares of the Fund, consultants and third-party data and other providers) only for legitimate business purposes and only if the third-party recipients are required to keep all such portfolio holdings information confidential and are prohibited from trading on the information they receive in violation of the federal securities laws. Disclosure to such third parties must be approved in advance by the Investment Adviser's legal or compliance department. Disclosure to providers of auditing, custody, proxy voting and other similar services; rating and ranking organizations; lenders and other third-party service providers that may obtain access to such information in the performance of their contractual duties to the Funds will generally be permitted. In general, each recipient of non-public portfolio holdings information must sign a confidentiality agreement and agree not to trade on the basis of such information in violation of the federal securities laws, although this requirement will not apply when the recipient is otherwise subject to a duty of confidentiality.

*Portfolio Characteristics Information*. Material portfolio characteristics information that is not publicly available (e.g., information that is not filed with the SEC or disclosed on the Funds' publicly available website) or calculated from publicly available information may be provided to third parties only if the third-party recipients are required to keep all such portfolio characteristics information confidential and are prohibited from trading on the information they receive in violation of the federal securities laws. Disclosure to such third parties must be approved in advance by the Investment Adviser's legal or compliance department, who must first determine that the Fund has a legitimate business purpose for doing so. In general, each recipient of material, non-public portfolio characteristics information must sign a confidentiality agreement and agree not to trade on the basis of such information in violation of the federal securities laws, although this requirement will not apply when the recipient is otherwise subject to a duty of confidentiality.

However, upon request, a Fund will provide certain non-public portfolio characteristics information to any (i) shareholder or (ii) non-shareholder (including, without limitation, individuals, institutional investors, intermediaries that sell shares of the Fund, consultants and third-party data providers) whose request for such information satisfies and/or serves a legitimate business purpose for the Fund. Examples of portfolio characteristics information include, but are not limited to, certain statistical information about a Fund's portfolio. In accordance with the policy, this type of portfolio characteristics information that is made available upon request will be disclosed in accordance with, and subject to the time lag indicated in, the schedule below. This portfolio characteristics information may be requested by calling Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC toll-free at 1-800-621-2550. Portfolio characteristics information that is otherwise publicly available may be disclosed without these time lags.

The type and volume of portfolio characteristics information that is made available upon request will vary among the Goldman Sachs Funds (depending on the investment strategies and the portfolio management team of the applicable Fund). If portfolio characteristics information is disclosed to one recipient, it must also be disclosed to all other eligible recipients requesting the same information. However, under certain circumstances, the volume of portfolio characteristics information provided to one recipient may differ from the volume of portfolio characteristics information provided to other recipients.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Type of Information** | **When Available Upon Request** |
| Financial Characteristics Information<br> Aggregate Liquidity Classification Information | **Prior to 90 Calendar Days After Month-End:** Cannot disclose without (i) a confidentiality agreement; (ii) an agreement not to trade on the basis of non-public information in violation of the federal securities laws; and (iii) legal or compliance approval.<br>**90 Calendar Days After Month-End:** May disclose to shareholders and any non-shareholder with a legitimate business purpose. |

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In addition, the Fund described in this SAI currently intend to publish certain portfolio characteristics information on the Trust's website (am.gs.com) on a daily basis. Operational disruptions and other systems disruptions may delay the posting of this information on the Trust's website or the availability of this information by calling Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC at the toll-free number listed above.

*Oversight of the Policy*. Under the policy, Fund Representatives will periodically supply the Board of the Trustees with a list of third parties who receive non-public portfolio holdings information and material, non-public portfolio characteristics information pursuant to an ongoing arrangement subject to a confidentiality agreement and agreement not to trade on the basis of such information in violation of the federal securities laws. In addition, the Board receives information, on a quarterly basis, on such arrangements that were permitted during the preceding quarter. Under the policy, the Investment Adviser's legal and compliance personnel authorize the disclosure of portfolio holdings information and portfolio characteristics information.

**Miscellaneous** 

The Prospectus and this SAI do not contain all the information included in the Registration Statement filed with the SEC under the 1933 Act with respect to the securities offered by the Prospectus. Certain portions of the Registration Statement have been omitted from the Prospectus and this SAI pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. The Registration Statement including the exhibits filed therewith may be examined at the office of the SEC in Washington, D.C.

Statements contained in the Prospectus or in this SAI as to the contents of any contract or other document referred to are not necessarily complete, and, in each instance, reference is made to the copy of such contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which the Prospectus and this SAI form a part, each such statement being qualified in all respects by such reference.

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**Corporate Actions** 

From time to time, the issuer of a security held in a Fund's portfolio may initiate a corporate action relating to that security. Corporate actions relating to equity securities may include, among others, an offer to purchase new shares, or to tender existing shares, of that security at a certain price. Corporate actions relating to debt securities may include, among others, an offer for early redemption of the debt security, or an offer to convert the debt security into stock. Certain corporate actions are voluntary, meaning that the Fund may only participate in the corporate action if it elects to do so in a timely fashion. Participation in certain corporate actions may enhance the value of a Fund's investment portfolio.

In cases where a Fund or the Investment Adviser receives sufficient advance notice of a voluntary corporate action, the Investment Adviser will exercise its discretion, in good faith, to determine whether the Fund will participate in that corporate action. If the Fund or the Investment Adviser does not receive sufficient advance notice of a voluntary corporate action, the Fund may not be able to timely elect to participate in that corporate action. Participation or lack of participation in a voluntary corporate action may result in a negative impact on the value of the Fund's investment portfolio.

**CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES** 

The Fund had not commenced operations as of [ ], and the Trust does not know of any persons who own of record or beneficially 5% or more of the outstanding Shares of the Fund or a predecessor fund as of that date.

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**APPENDIX A** 

**DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES RATINGS** 

**Short-Term Credit Ratings** 

An S&P Global Ratings ("S&P") short-term issue credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. The following summarizes the rating categories used by S&P for short-term issues:

"A-1" – A short-term obligation rated "A-1" is rated in the highest category by S&P. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on these obligations is extremely strong.

"A-2" – A short-term obligation rated "A-2" is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is satisfactory.

"A-3" – A short-term obligation rated "A-3" exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken an obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

"B" – A short-term obligation rated "B" is regarded as vulnerable and has significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties that could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.

"A" – A short-term obligation rated "C" is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

"D" – A short-term obligation rated "D" is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the "D" rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P believes that such payments will be made within any stated grace period. However, any stated grace period longer than five business days will be treated as five business days. The "D" rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. An obligation's rating is lowered to "D" if it is subject to a distressed exchange offer.

Local Currency and Foreign Currency Ratings – S&P's issuer credit ratings make a distinction between foreign currency ratings and local currency ratings. An issuer's foreign currency rating will differ from its local currency rating when the obligor has a different capacity to meet its obligations denominated in its local currency, vs. obligations denominated in a foreign currency.

Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") short-term ratings are forward-looking opinions of the relative credit risks of financial obligations with an original maturity of thirteen months or less and reflect both on the likelihood of a default on contractually promised payments and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default.

Moody's employs the following designations to indicate the relative repayment ability of rated issuers:

"P-1" – Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-1 have a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations.

"P-2" – Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-2 have a strong ability to repay short-term debt obligations.

"P-3" – Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3 have an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations. "NP" – Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories.

Fitch Ratings, Inc. ("Fitch") short-term issuer or obligation ratings are based in all cases on the short-term vulnerability to default of the rated entity and relates to the capacity to meet financial obligations in accordance with the documentation governing the relevant obligation. Short-term deposit ratings may be adjusted for loss severity. Short-Term Ratings are assigned to obligations whose initial maturity is viewed as "short term" based on market convention. Typically, this means up to 13 months for corporate, sovereign, and structured obligations and up to 36 months for obligations in U.S. public finance markets.

The following summarizes the rating categories used by Fitch for short-term obligations:

"F-1" – Securities possess the highest short-term credit quality. This designation indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added "+" to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.

"F-2" – Securities possess good short-term credit quality. This designation indicates good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.

"F-3" – Securities possess fair short-term credit quality. This designation indicates that the intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate.

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"B" – Securities possess speculative short-term credit quality. This designation indicates minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus heightened vulnerability to near term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.

"C" – Securities possess high short-term default risk. Default is a real possibility.

"RD" – Restricted Default. Indicates an entity that has defaulted on one or more of its financial commitments, although it continues to meet other financial obligations. Typically applicable to entity ratings only.

"D" – Default. Indicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of a short-term obligation.

"NR" – This designation indicates that Fitch does not publicly rate the associated issuer or issue.

"WD" – This designation indicates that the rating has been withdrawn and is no longer maintained by Fitch.

DBRS, Inc. ("DBRS") short-term debt rating scale provides an opinion on the risk that an issuer will not meet its short-term financial obligations in a timely manner. Ratings are based on quantitative and qualitative considerations relevant to the issuer and the relative ranking of claims. The "R-1" and "R-2" rating categories are further denoted by the sub-categories "(high)", "(middle)", and "(low)".

The following summarizes the ratings used by DBRS for commercial paper and short-term debt:

"R-1 (high)" – Short-term debt rated "R-1 (high)" is of the highest credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is exceptionally high. Unlikely to be adversely affected by future events.

"R-1 (middle)" – Short-term debt rated "R-1 (middle)" is of superior credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is very high. Differs from "R-1 (high)" by a relatively modest degree. Unlikely to be significantly vulnerable to future events.

"R-1 (low)" – Short-term debt rated "R-1 (low)" is of good credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is substantial. Overall strength is not as favorable as higher rating categories. May be vulnerable to future events, but qualifying negative factors are considered manageable.

"R-2 (high)" – Short-term debt rated "R-2 (high)" is considered to be at the upper end of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events.

"R-2 (middle)" – Short-term debt rated "R-2 (middle)" is considered to be of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events or may be exposed to other factors that could reduce credit quality.

"R-2 (low)" – Short-term debt rated "R-2 (low)" is considered to be at the lower end of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events. A number of challenges are present that could affect the issuer's ability to meet such obligations.

"R-3" – Short-term debt rated "R-3" is considered to be at the lowest end of adequate credit quality. There is a capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due. May be vulnerable to future events and the certainty of meeting such obligations could be impacted by a variety of developments.

"R-4" – Short-term debt rated "R-4" is considered to be of speculative credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is uncertain.

"R-5" – Short-term debt rated "R-5" is considered to be of highly speculative credit quality. There is a high level of uncertainty as to the capacity to meet short-term financial obligations as they fall due.

"D" – Short-term debt rated "D" is assigned when the issuer has filed under any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or winding up statute or there is a failure to satisfy an obligation after the exhaustion of grace periods, a downgrade to "D" may occur. DBRS may also use "SD" (Selective Default) in cases where only some securities are impacted, such as the case of a "distressed exchange".

**Long-Term Credit Ratings** 

The following summarizes the ratings used by S&P for long-term issues:

"AAA" – An obligation rated "AAA" has the highest rating assigned by S&P. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is extremely strong.

"AA" – An obligation rated "AA" differs from the highest-rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is very strong.

"A" – An obligation rated "A" is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is still strong.

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"BBB" – An obligation rated "BBB" exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

Obligations rated "BB," "B," "CCC," "CC" and "C" are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. "BB" indicates the least degree of speculation and "C" the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.

"BB" – An obligation rated "BB" is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

"B" – An obligation rated "B" is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated "BB", but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor's capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

"CCC" – An obligation rated "CCC" is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

"CC" – An obligation rated "CC" is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. The "CC" rating is used when a default has not yet occurred but S&P expects default to be a virtual certainty, regardless of the anticipated time to default.

"C" – An obligation rated "C" is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment, and the obligation is expected to have lower relative seniority or lower ultimate recovery compared with obligations that are rated higher.

"D" – An obligation rated "D" is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the "D" rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P believes that such payments will be made within five business days in the absence of a stated grace period or within the earlier of the stated grace period or 30 calendar days. The "D" rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. An obligation's rating is lowered to "D" if it is subject to a distressed exchange offer.

"NR" – This indicates that no rating has been requested, or that there is insufficient information on which to base a rating, or that S&P does not rate a particular obligation as a matter of policy.

Plus (+) or minus (-) – The ratings from "AA" to "CCC" may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.

Local Currency and Foreign Currency Ratings – S&P' issuer credit ratings make a distinction between foreign currency ratings and local currency ratings. An issuer's foreign currency rating will differ from its local currency rating when the obligor has a different capacity to meet its obligations denominated in its local currency, vs. obligations denominated in a foreign currency.

Moody's long-term ratings are forward-looking opinions of the relative credit risks of financial obligations with an original maturity of one year or more and reflect both on the likelihood of a default on contractually promised payments and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default. The following summarizes the ratings used by Moody's for long-term debt:

"Aaa" – Obligations rated "Aaa" are judged to be of the highest quality, subject to the lowest level of credit risk.

"Aa" – Obligations rated "Aa" are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.

"A" – Obligations rated "A" are judged to be upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.

"Baa" – Obligations rated "Baa" are judged to be medium-grade and subject to moderate credit risk and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.

"Ba" – Obligations rated "Ba" are judged to be speculative and are subject to substantial credit risk. "B" – Obligations rated "B" are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk.

"Caa" – Obligations rated "Caa" are judged to be speculative of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk.

"Ca" – Obligations rated "Ca" are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest.

"C" – Obligations rated "C" are the lowest rated and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.

Note: Moody's appends numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 to each generic rating classification from "Aa" through "Caa." The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category.

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The following summarizes long-term ratings used by Fitch:

"AAA" – Securities considered to be of the highest credit quality. "AAA" ratings denote the lowest expectation of credit risk. They are assigned only in cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.

"AA" – Securities considered to be of very high credit quality. "AA" ratings denote expectations of very low credit risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.

"A" – Securities considered to be of high credit quality. "A" ratings denote expectations of low credit risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.

"BBB" – Securities considered to be of good credit quality. "BBB" ratings indicate that expectations of credit risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate, but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.

"BB" – Securities considered to be speculative. "BB" ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to credit risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however, business or financial alternatives may be available to allow financial commitments to be met.

"B" – Securities considered to be highly speculative. "B" ratings indicate that material credit risk is present. "CCC" – A "CCC" rating indicates that substantial credit risk is present.

"CC" – A "CC" rating indicates very high levels of credit risk.

"C" – A "C" rating indicates exceptionally high levels of credit risk.

Defaulted obligations typically are not assigned "RD" or "D" ratings but are instead rated in the "B" to "C" rating categories, depending on their recovery prospects and other relevant characteristics. Fitch believes that this approach better aligns obligations that have comparable overall expected loss but varying vulnerability to default and loss.

Plus (+) or minus (-) may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within major rating categories. Such suffixes are not added to the "AAA" category or to categories below "CCC".

"NR" – Denotes that Fitch does not publicly rate the associated issue or issuer.

"WD" – Indicates that the rating has been withdrawn and is no longer maintained by Fitch.

The DBRS long-term rating scale provides an opinion on the risk of default. That is, the risk that an issuer will fail to satisfy its financial obligations in accordance with the terms under which an obligation has been issued. Ratings are based on quantitative and qualitative considerations relevant to the issuer, and the relative ranking of the claims. All rating categories other than "AAA" and also contain subcategories "(high)" and "(low)". The absence of either a "(high)" or "(low)" designation indicates the rating is in the middle of the category. The following summarizes the ratings used by DBRS for long-term debt:

"AAA" – Long-term debt rated "AAA" is of the highest credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is exceptionally high and unlikely to be adversely affected by future events.

"AA" – Long-term debt rated "AA" is of superior credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is considered high. Credit quality differs from "AAA" only to a small degree. Unlikely to be significantly vulnerable to future events.

"A" – Long-term debt rated "A" is of good credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is substantial, but of lesser credit quality than "AA." May be vulnerable to future events, but qualifying negative factors are considered manageable.

"BBB" – Long-term debt rated "BBB" is of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is considered acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events.

"BB" – Long-term debt rated "BB" is of speculative , non-investment grade credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is uncertain. Vulnerable to future events.

"B" – Long-term debt rated "B" is of highly speculative credit quality. There is a high level of uncertainty as to the capacity to meet financial obligations.

"CCC", "CC" and "C" – Long-term debt rated in any of these categories is of very highly speculative credit quality. In danger of defaulting on financial obligations. There is little difference between these three categories, although "CC" and "C" ratings are normally applied to obligations that are seen as highly likely to default, or subordinated to obligations rated in the "CCC" to "B" range. Obligations in respect of which default has not technically taken place but is considered inevitable may be rated in the category.

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"D" – A security rated "D" is assigned when the issuer has filed under any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or winding up statute or there is a failure to satisfy an obligation after the exhaustion of grace periods, a downgrade to "D" may occur. DBRS may also use "SD" (Selective Default) in cases where only some securities are impacted, such as the case of a "distressed exchange".

**Municipal Note Ratings** 

An S&P U.S. municipal note rating reflects S&P' opinion about the liquidity factors and market access risks unique to the notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes with an original maturity of more than three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. In determining which type of rating, if any, to assign, S&P' analysis will review the following considerations:

Amortization schedule-the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note; and Source of payment-the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note. Note rating symbols are as follows:

"SP-1" – A municipal note rated "SP-1" exhibits a strong capacity to pay principal and interest. An issue determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service is given a plus (+) designation.

"SP-2" – A municipal note rated "SP-2" exhibits a satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the notes.

"SP-3" – A municipal note rated "SP-3" exhibits a speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.

Moody's uses the Municipal Investment Grade ("MIG") scale to rate U.S. municipal bond anticipation notes of up to three years maturity. Municipal notes rated on the MIG scale may be secured by either pledged revenues or proceeds of a take-out financing received prior to note maturity. MIG ratings expire at the maturity of the obligation, and the issuer's long-term rating is only one consideration in assigning the MIG rating. MIG ratings are divided into three levels– "MIG-1" through "MIG-3"—while speculative grade short-term obligations are designated "SG." The following summarizes the ratings used by Moody's for these short-term obligations:

"MIG-1" – This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.

"MIG-2" – This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.

"MIG-3" – This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.

"SG" – This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.

In the case of variable rate demand obligations ("VRDOs"), a two-component rating is assigned; a long- or short-term debt rating and a demand obligation rating. The first element represents Moody's evaluation of risk associated with scheduled principal and interest payments. The second element represents Moody's evaluation of risk associated with the ability to receive purchase price upon demand ("demand feature"). The second element uses a rating from a variation of the MIG scale called the Variable Municipal Investment Grade ("VMIG") scale. The rating transitions on the VMIG scale differ from those on the Prime scale to reflect the risk that external liquidity support generally will terminate if the issuer's long-term rating drops below investment grade.

"VMIG-1" – This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by the superior short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.

"VMIG-2" – This designation denotes strong credit quality. Good protection is afforded by the strong short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.

"VMIG-3" – This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Adequate protection is afforded by the satisfactory short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.

"SG" – This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Demand features rated in this category may be supported by a liquidity provider that does not have an investment grade short-term rating or may lack the structural and/or legal protections necessary to ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.

"NR" – Is assigned to an unrated obligation.

Fitch uses the same ratings for municipal securities as described above for other short-term credit ratings.

**About Credit Ratings** 

An S&P issue credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation, a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program (including ratings on medium-term note programs and commercial paper programs). It takes into consideration the creditworthiness of guarantors, insurers, or other forms of credit enhancement on the obligation and takes

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into account the currency in which the obligation is denominated. The opinion reflects S&P' view of the obligor's capacity and willingness to meet its financial commitments as they come due, and this opinion may assess terms, such as collateral security and subordination, which could affect ultimate payment in the event of default.

Moody's credit ratings must be construed solely as statements of opinion and not statements of fact or recommendations to purchase, sell or hold any securities.

Fitch's credit ratings relating to issuers are an opinion on the relative ability of an entity to meet financial commitments, such as interest, preferred dividends, repayment of principal, insurance claims or counterparty obligations. Fitch credit ratings are used by investors as indications of the likelihood of receiving the money owed to them in accordance with the terms on which they invested. Fitch's credit ratings cover the global spectrum of corporate, sovereign financial, bank, insurance and public finance entities (including supranational and sub-national entities) and the securities or other obligations they issue, as well as structured finance securities backed by receivables or other financial assets.

Credit ratings provided by DBRS are forward-looking opinions about credit risk which reflect the creditworthiness of an issuer, rated entity, and/or security. Credit ratings are not statements of fact. While historical statistics and performance can be important considerations, credit ratings are not based solely on such; they include subjective considerations and involve expectations for future performance that cannot be guaranteed. To the extent that future events and economic conditions do not match expectations, credit ratings assigned to issuers and/or securities can change. Credit ratings are also based on approved and applicable methodologies, models and criteria ("Methodologies"), which are periodically updated and when material changes are deemed necessary, this may also lead to rating changes.

Credit ratings typically provide an opinion on the risk that investors may not be repaid in accordance with the terms under which the obligation was issued. In some cases, credit ratings may also include consideration for the relative ranking of claims and recovery, should default occur. Credit ratings are meant to provide opinions on relative measures of risk and are not based on expectations of any specific default probability, nor are they meant to predict such.

The data and information on which DBRS bases its opinions is not audited or verified by DBRS, although DBRS conducts a reasonableness review of information received and relied upon in accordance with its Methodologies and policies.

DBRS uses rating symbols as a concise method of expressing its opinion to the market but there are a limited number of rating categories for the possible slight risk differentials that exist across the rating spectrum and DBRS does not assert that credit ratings in the same category are of "exactly" the same quality.

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**APPENDIX B** 

**GOLDMAN SACHS ASSET MANAGEMENT'S PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES SUMMARY** 

**Effective March 2025** 

The following is a summary of the material Proxy Voting Guidelines (the "Guidelines"), which form the substantive basis of our Policy and Procedures on Proxy Voting for Investment Advisory Clients (the "Policy"). As described in the main body of the Policy, one or more Portfolio Management Teams and/or the Global Stewardship Team may diverge from the Guidelines and a related Recommendation on any particular proxy vote or in connection with any individual investment decision in accordance with the Policy.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Region: Americas** | **Region: Americas** |  |
| 1. | Business Items | 2-B |
| 2. | Board of Directors | 3-B |
| 3. | Executive and Non- Executive Compensation | 8-B |
| 4. | Shareholders Rights and Defenses | 11-B |
| 5. | Strategic Transactions and Capital Structures | 12-B |
| 6. | Other Management and Shareholder Proposals | 14-B |
| **Region: Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Proxy Items** | **Region: Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Proxy Items** |  |
| 1. | Business Items | 16-B |
| 2. | Board of Directors | 17-B |
| 3. | Remuneration | 22-B |
| 4. | Shareholder Rights and Defenses | 23-B |
| 5. | Strategic Transactions, Capital Structures and other Business Considerations | 23-B |
| 6. | Other Management and Shareholder Proposals | 25-B |
| **Region: Asia Pacific (APAC) Proxy Items** | **Region: Asia Pacific (APAC) Proxy Items** |  |
| 1. | Business Items | 27-B |
| 2. | Board of Directors | 28-B |
| 3. | Remuneration | 32-B |
| 4. | Shareholder Rights and Defenses | 34-B |
| 5. | Strategic Transactions, Capital Structures and other Business Considerations | 34-B |
| 6. | Other Management and Shareholder Proposals | 36-B |
| **Region: Japan Proxy Items** | **Region: Japan Proxy Items** |  |
| 1. | Operational Items | 37-B |
| 2. | Board of Directors and Statutory Auditors | 38-B |
| 3. | Compensation | 42-B |
| 4. | Shareholder Rights and Defenses | 42-B |
| 5. | Strategic Transactions and Capital Structures | 42-B |
| 6. | Other Management and Shareholder Proposals | 43-B |

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**Region: Americas** 

*The following section is a summary of the Guidelines, which form the substantive basis of the Policy with respect to North, Central and South American public equity investments of operating and/or holding companies. Applying these guidelines is subject to certain regional and country-specific exceptions and modifications and is not inclusive of all considerations in each market.* 

**1. Business Items** 

**Auditor Ratification** 

Generally vote FOR proposals to ratify auditors, unless any of the following apply within the last year:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• An auditor has a financial interest in or association with the company, and is therefore not independent;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is reason to believe that the independent auditor has rendered an opinion that is neither accurate nor
indicative of the company's financial position;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Poor accounting practices are identified that rise to a serious level of concern, such as: fraud; misapplication
of GAAP; or material weaknesses identified in audit-related disclosures; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Fees for non-audit services are excessive (generally over 50% or more of
the audit fees).

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking companies to prohibit or limit their auditors from engaging in non-audit services or asking for audit firm rotation.

**Reincorporation Proposals** 

We may support management proposals to reincorporate as long as the reincorporation would not substantially diminish shareholder rights. We may not support shareholder proposals for reincorporation unless the current jurisdiction of incorporation is substantially less shareholder friendly than the proposed reincorporation, there is a strong economic case to reincorporate or the company has a history of making decisions that are not shareholder friendly.

**Exclusive Venue for Shareholder Lawsuits** 

Generally vote FOR on exclusive venue proposals, taking into account:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has been materially harmed by shareholder litigation outside its jurisdiction of
incorporation, based on disclosure in the company's proxy statement;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has the following governance features:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Majority independent board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Independent key committees;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• An annually elected board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A majority vote standard in uncontested director elections;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The absence of a poison pill, unless the pill was approved by shareholders; and/or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Separate Chairman CEO role or, if combined, an independent chairman with clearly delineated duties.

**Virtual Meetings** 

Generally vote FOR management proposals allowing for the convening of hybrid\* shareholder meetings if it is clear that it is not the intention to hold virtual-only AGMs. Generally vote AGAINST proposals allowing for the convening of virtual-only\* shareholder meetings.

Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals requesting in person shareholder meetings if a meeting of shareholders is held exclusively through the use of online technology without a corresponding in-person meeting.

\* The phrase "virtual-only shareholder meeting" refers to a meeting of shareholders that is held exclusively through the use of online technology without a corresponding in-person meeting. The term "hybrid shareholder meeting" refers to an in-person, or physical, meeting in which shareholders are permitted to participate online.

**Public Benefit Corporation Proposals (United States)** 

Generally vote FOR management proposals and CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals related to the conversion of the company into a public benefit corporation.

**Amend Articles of Incorporation to Provide for Officer and Director Exculpation (United States)** 

Generally vote FOR management proposals to amend the company's certificate of incorporation to reflect new Delaware law provisions regarding officer and director exculpation.

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**Transact Other Business** 

Generally vote AGAINST other business when it appears as a voting item.

**Administrative Requests** 

Generally vote FOR non-contentious administrative management requests.

**2. Board of Directors** 

The board of directors should promote the interests of shareholders by acting in an oversight and/or advisory role; should consist of a majority of independent directors and/or meet local best practice expectations; should be composed of directors with diverse backgrounds and perspectives; and should be held accountable for actions and results related to their responsibilities. The board of directors should seek to comply with commonly accepted corporate governance best practices as well as the corporate governance standards that are applicable in their country and state of incorporation. The board of directors should establish committees to oversee areas such as, but not limited to, audit, executive and non-executive compensation, and director nominations and appointments. The responsibilities of the committees should be publicly disclosed.

**Voting on Director Nominees in Uncontested Elections** 

Vote on director nominees should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis taking into consideration the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Adequate disclosure has not been provided in a timely manner; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are clear concerns over questionable finances or restatements; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There have been questionable transactions or conflicts of interest; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are any records of abuses against minority shareholder interests; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board fails to meet minimum corporate governance standards; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are reservations about:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Director terms

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bundling of proposals to elect directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Disclosure of named nominees

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Overboarded directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Director independence

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Specific concerns about the individual or company, such as criminal wrongdoing or breach of fiduciary
responsibilities; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are other considerations which may include sanction from government or authority, violations of laws and
regulations, or other issues relate to improper business practice, failure to replace management, or egregious actions related to service on other boards.

Generally vote FOR employee and/or labor representatives if they sit on either the audit or compensation committee and are required by law to be on those committees.

Generally vote AGAINST employee and/or labor representatives if they sit on either the audit or compensation committee, if they are not required to be on those committees.

**Director Commitments** 

Generally vote AGAINST or WITHHOLD from individual directors who, without further explanation:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Sit on more than five public company boards; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Are CEOs of public companies who sit on the boards of more than two public companies besides their own--withhold only at their outside boards.

**Director Independence (United States)** 

At companies incorporated in the US, where applicable, the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ Listing Standards definition is to be used to classify directors as inside directors, affiliated outside directors, or independent outside directors.

Additionally, we will consider compensation committee interlocking directors to be affiliated (defined as CEOs who sit on each other's compensation committees).

**Director Independence** 

**Classification of Directors** 

**Executive Director** 

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Employee or executive of the company; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is classified as a non-executive, but receives salary,
fees, bonus, and/or other benefits that are in line with the highest-paid executives of the company.

**Non-Independent Non-Executive Director (NED)** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is attested by the board to be a non-independent NED;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director specifically designated as a representative of a significant shareholder of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is also an employee or executive of a significant shareholder of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Beneficial owner (direct or indirect) of at least 10% of the company's stock, either in economic terms or in
voting rights (this may be aggregated if voting power is distributed among more than one member of a defined group, e.g., family members who beneficially own less than 10% individually, but collectively own more than 10%), unless market best
practice dictates a lower ownership and/or disclosure threshold (and in other special market-specific circumstances);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Government representative;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Currently provides (or a relative provides) professional services to the company, to an affiliate of the company,
or to an individual officer of the company or of one of its affiliates in excess of $10,000 per year;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Represents customer, supplier, creditor, banker, or other entity with which company maintains
transactional/commercial relationship (unless company discloses information to apply a materiality test);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who has conflicting or cross-directorships with executive directors or the chairman of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Relative of a current employee of the company or its affiliates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Relative of a former executive of the company or its affiliates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A new appointee elected other than by a formal process through the General Meeting (such as a contractual
appointment by a substantial shareholder);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Founder/co-founder/member of founding family but not currently an
employee;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Former executive (a cooling off period may be applied);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Years of service is generally not a determining factor unless it is recommended best practice in a market and/or
in extreme circumstances, in which case it may be considered; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any additional relationship or principle considered to compromise independence under local corporate governance
best practice guidance.

**Independent NED** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• No material connection, either directly or indirectly, to the company other than a board seat.

**Employee Representative** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Represents employees or employee shareholders of the company (classified as "employee representative"
but considered a non-independent NED).

**Director Accountability** 

Generally vote AGAINST or WITHHOLD from individual directors who attend less than 75% of the board and committee meetings without a disclosed valid excuse.

Generally, vote FOR the bundled election of management nominees, unless adequate disclosures of the nominees have not been provided in a timely manner or if one or more of the nominees does not meet the expectation of our policy.

Other items considered for an AGAINST vote include specific concerns about the individual or the company, such as criminal wrongdoing or breach of fiduciary responsibilities, sanctions from government or authority, violations of laws and regulations, the presence of inappropriate related party transactions, or other issues related to improper business practices.

**Committee Responsibilities and Expectations** 

The board of directors should establish committees to oversee areas such as, but not limited to, audit, executive and non-executive compensation, and director nominations and appointments. The responsibilities of the committees should be publicly disclosed.

We generally support incumbent directors, taking into consideration the below factors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Material failures of governance, stewardship, or fiduciary responsibilities at the company including but not
limited to violations of global norms principles and/or other significant global standards;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Failure to disclose material information;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Egregious actions related to the director(s)' service on other boards that raise substantial doubt about his
or her ability to effectively oversee management and serve the best interests of shareholders at any company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board failed to act on a shareholder proposal that received approval of the majority of shares cast the
previous year (a management proposal with other than a FOR recommendation by management will not be considered as sufficient action taken); an adopted proposal that is substantially similar to the original shareholder proposal will be deemed
sufficient; (vote against members of the committee of the board that is responsible for the issue under consideration). If we did not support the shareholder proposal, we may still vote against the committee member(s).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company's poison pill has a dead-hand or modified dead-hand feature for two or more years. Vote
against/withhold every year until this feature is removed; however, vote against the poison pill if there is one on the ballot with this feature rather than the director;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board adopts or renews a poison pill without shareholder approval, does not commit to putting it to
shareholder vote within 12 months of adoption (or in the case of a newly public company, does not commit to put the pill to a shareholder vote within 12 months following the IPO), or reneges on a commitment to put the pill to a vote, and has not yet
received a withhold/against recommendation for this issue;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board failed to act on takeover offers where the majority of the shareholders tendered their shares;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If in an extreme situation the board lacks accountability and oversight, coupled with sustained poor performance
relative to peers.

**Audit Committee** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on members of the Audit Committee if poor accounting practices, which rise to a level of serious concern are identified, such as, but not limited to, fraud, misapplication of GAAP, excessive non-audit fees, excessive pledging or hedging of stock by executives, and material weaknesses identified in audit-related disclosures.

Examine the severity, breadth, chronological sequence and duration, as well as the company's efforts at remediation or corrective actions, in determining whether negative vote recommendations are warranted against the members of the Audit Committee who are responsible for the poor accounting practices, or the entire board.

**Compensation Committee (North America)** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on members of the Compensation Committee, factors considered may include whether:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We voted against the company's management say on pay proposal (MSOP) in the previous year, the
company's previous MSOP received significant opposition of votes cast and we are voting against this year's MSOP;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board implements a MSOP on a less frequent basis than the frequency that received the plurality of votes
cast; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The MSOP or equity-based incentive plan proposal item is not on the ballot and the company maintains problematic
pay practices.

**Nominating/Governance Committee** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on members of the Nominating/Governance Committee considering if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A company does not meet the board diversity requirements of local listing rules, corporate governance codes,
national targets, or the board diversity is significantly below that of the average in its market; provided that company performance, or other factors, will generally be taken into consideration;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The level of board independence does not meet the requirements of local regulations, listing rules, corporate
governance codes, or local market best practices;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the average board tenure exceeds 15 years, and there has not been a new nominee in the past 5 years;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A company maintains a classified board structure without a sunset provision, has opted into, or failed to opt out
of, state laws requiring a classified board structure or has a capital structure with unequal voting rights (United States);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• At the previous board election, any director received more than 50% withhold/against votes of the shares cast and
the company has failed to address the underlying issue(s) that caused the high withhold/against vote;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board amends the company's bylaws or charter without shareholder approval in a manner that materially
diminishes shareholders' rights or could adversely impact shareholders; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board has materially limited shareholders' right to proxy access (United States).

**Voting on Director Nominees in Contested Elections** 

Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis in contested elections of directors, e.g., the election of shareholder nominees or the dismissal of incumbent directors, determining which directors are best suited to add value for shareholders.

The analysis will generally be based on, but not limited to, the following major decision factors:

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Company performance relative to its peers;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Strategy of the incumbents versus the dissidents;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Independence of board candidates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Experience and skills of board candidates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Governance profile of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Evidence of management entrenchment;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Responsiveness to shareholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether a takeover offer has been rebuffed; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether minority or majority representation is being sought.

**Proxy Access (United States)** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder or management proposals asking for proxy access.

We may support proxy access as an important right for shareholders and as an alternative to costly proxy contests and as a method for us to vote for directors on an individual basis, as appropriate, rather than voting on one slate or the other. While this could be an important shareholder right, the following factors will be taken into account when evaluating the shareholder proposals:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The ownership thresholds, percentage and duration proposed (we generally will not support if the ownership
threshold is less than 3%);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The maximum proportion of directors that shareholders may nominate each year (we generally will not support if
the proportion of directors is greater than 25%); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Other restricting factors that when taken in combination could serve to materially limit the proxy access
provision.

We will take the above factors into account when evaluating proposals proactively adopted by the company or in response to a shareholder proposal to adopt or amend the right.

**Reimbursing Proxy Solicitation Expenses** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to reimburse proxy solicitation expenses

**Other Board Related Proposals (Management and Shareholder)** 

Generally vote AGAINST management and shareholder proposals introducing classified boards.

Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals regarding mandatory retirement ages for directors.

Generally vote AGAINST management and shareholder proposals to alter board structure or size in the context of a fight for control of the company or the board.

**Independent Board Chair (for applicable markets)** 

We will generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals requiring that the chairman's position be filled by an independent director, if the company satisfies 3 of the 4 following criteria:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Two-thirds independent board, or majority in countries where employee
representation is common practice;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A designated, or a rotating, lead director, elected by and from the independent board members with clearly
delineated and comprehensive duties;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Fully independent key committees; and/or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Established, publicly disclosed, governance guidelines and director biographies/profiles.

**Proposals Regarding Board Declassification** 

We will generally vote FOR management and shareholder proposals regarding the adoption of a declassified board structure.

**Majority Vote Shareholder Proposals** 

We will generally vote FOR proposals requesting that the board adopt majority voting in the election of directors provided it does not conflict with the law where the company is incorporated. We also look for companies to adopt a post-election policy outlining how the company will address the situation of a holdover director.

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**Cumulative Vote Shareholder Proposals** 

We will generally vote FOR shareholder proposals to restore or provide cumulative voting unless the company has adopted (i) majority vote standard with a carve-out for plurality voting in situations where there are more nominees than seats and (ii) a director resignation policy to address failed elections.

**3. Executive and Non- Executive Compensation** 

**Pay Practices** 

Good pay practices should align management's interests with long-term shareholder value creation. Detailed disclosure of compensation criteria is preferred; proof that companies follow the criteria should be evident and retroactive performance target changes without proper disclosure is not viewed favorably. Compensation practices should allow a company to attract and retain proven talent. Some examples of poor pay practices include: abnormally large bonus payouts without justifiable performance linkage or proper disclosure, egregious employment contracts, excessive severance and/or change in control provisions, repricing or replacing of underwater stock options/stock appreciation rights without prior shareholder approval, and excessive perquisites. A company should also have an appropriate balance of short-term vs. long-term metrics and the metrics should be aligned with business goals and objectives.

If the company maintains problematic or poor pay practices, generally vote:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• AGAINST Management Say on Pay (MSOP) Proposals; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• AGAINST an equity-based incentive plan proposal if excessive non-performance-based equity awards are the major contributor to a pay-for-performance misalignment.

**Equity Compensation Plans** 

We will generally vote FOR management proposals on equity-based compensation plans. Evaluation takes into account potential plan cost, plan features and grant practices. While a negative combination of these factors may cause a vote AGAINST, other reasons to consider a vote AGAINST the equity plan could include the following factors:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The plan permits the repricing of stock options/stock appreciation rights (SARs) without prior shareholder
approval; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is more than one problematic material feature of the plan, which could include one of the following:
unfavorable change-in-control features, presence of gross ups and options reload.

**Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation (Say-on-Pay, MSOP) Management Proposals (North America)** 

Generally vote FOR annual frequency and AGAINST all proposals asking for any frequency less than annual.

We will generally vote FOR management proposals for an advisory vote on executive compensation considering the context of each company's specific circumstances and the board's disclosed rationale for its practices.

<u>When a disconnect between pay and performance exists, pay practices that may result in a vote AGAINST management proposals on an advisory vote on executive compensation may include:</u>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lack of transparent disclosure of compensation philosophy and goals and targets, including details on short-term
and long-term performance incentives;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Long term incentive awards consisting of less than 50% performance-based awards;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lack of the board's response to failed MSOP vote the previous year;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Abnormally large bonus payouts without justifiable performance linkage or proper disclosure;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Egregious employment or retention contracts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Excessive perquisites or excessive severance and/or change in control provisions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Extraordinary relocation benefits;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Long term incentive awards evaluated over a time period of less than three years;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board used discretion without sufficient disclosure;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board changed the targets and/or performance metrics during the pay period;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board awarded a multi-year guaranteed cash bonus or non-performance equity award;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board retested performance goals or awarded a pay for failure pay plan;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The plan allows for the single trigger acceleration of unvested equity awards and/or provides excise tax gross
ups;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Repricing or replacing of underwater stock options without prior shareholder approval;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Egregious pension/SERP (supplemental executive retirement plan) payouts; and

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board has adopted other pay practices that may increase risk to shareholders.

**Other Compensation Proposals and Policies** 

**Employee Stock Purchase Plans — Non-Qualified Plans** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on nonqualified employee stock purchase plans taking into account the following factors:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Broad-based participation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Limits on employee contributions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Company matching contributions; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Presence of a discount on the stock price on the date of purchase.

**Option Exchange Programs/Repricing Options** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on management proposals seeking approval to exchange/reprice options, taking into consideration:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Historic trading patterns--the stock price should not be so volatile that
the options are likely to be back "in-the-money" over the near term;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Rationale for the re-pricing;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If it is a value-for-value exchange;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If surrendered stock options are added back to the plan reserve;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Option vesting;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Term of the option--the term should remain the same as that of the
replaced option;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Exercise price—should be set at fair market or a premium to market; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Participants—executive officers and directors should be excluded.

Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals to put option repricings to a shareholder vote.

**Stock Retention Holding Period** 

Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals asking for a policy requiring that senior executives retain a significant percentage of shares acquired through equity compensation programs if the policy requests retention for two years or less following the termination of their employment (through retirement or otherwise) **and** a holding threshold percentage of 50% or less.

Also consider whether the company has any holding period, retention ratio, or officer ownership requirements in place and the terms/provisions of awards already granted.

**Elimination of Accelerated Vesting in the Event of a Change in Control** 

Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals seeking a policy eliminating the accelerated vesting of time-based equity awards in the event of a change-in-control.

**Performance-based Equity Awards and Pay-for-Superior-Performance Proposals** 

Generally vote FOR unless there is sufficient evidence that the current compensation structure is already substantially performance-based. We consider performance-based awards to include awards that are tied to shareholder return or other metrics that are relevant to the business.

**Say on Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans (SERP)** 

Generally vote AGAINST proposals asking for shareholder votes on SERP.

**4. Shareholders Rights and Defenses** 

**Shareholder Ability to Act by Written Consent** 

Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals that provide shareholders with the ability to act by written consent, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company already gives shareholders the right to call special meetings at a threshold of 25% or lower; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company has a history of strong governance practices.

**Special Meetings Arrangements** 

Generally vote FOR management proposals that provide shareholders with the ability to call special meetings.

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Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals that provide shareholders with the ability to call special meetings at a threshold of 25% or lower if the company currently does not give shareholders the right to call special meetings. However, if a company already gives shareholders the right to call special meetings at a threshold of at least 25%, vote AGAINST shareholder proposals to further reduce the threshold**.**

Generally vote AGAINST management proposals seeking shareholder approval for the company to hold special meetings with 14 days notice unless the company offers shareholders the ability to vote by electronic means and a proposal to reduce the period of notice to not less than 14 days has received majority support.

**Advance Notice Requirements for Shareholder Proposals/Nominations** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on advance notice proposals, giving support to proposals that allow shareholders to submit proposals/nominations reasonably close to the meeting date and within the broadest window possible, recognizing the need to allow sufficient notice for company, regulatory and shareholder review.

**Shareholder Voting Requirements** 

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to require a supermajority shareholder vote. Generally vote FOR management and shareholder proposals to reduce supermajority vote requirements.

**Poison Pills** 

Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals requesting that the company submit its poison pill to a shareholder vote or redeem it, unless the company has:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a shareholder-approved poison pill in place; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• adopted a policy concerning the adoption of a pill in the future specifying certain shareholder friendly
provisions.

Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals calling for poison pills to be put to a vote within a time period of less than one year after adoption.

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on management proposals on poison pill ratification, focusing on the features of the shareholder rights plan.

In addition, the rationale for adopting the pill should be thoroughly explained by the company. In examining the request for the pill, take into consideration the company's existing governance structure, including: board independence, existing takeover defenses, and any problematic governance concerns.

**5. Strategic Transactions and Capital Structures** 

**Reorganizations/Restructurings** 

Vote reorganizations and restructurings on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Mergers and Acquisitions** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on mergers and acquisitions taking into account the following based on publicly available information:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Valuation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Market reaction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Strategic rationale;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Management's track record of successful integration of historical acquisitions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Presence of conflicts of interest; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Governance profile of the combined company.

**Dual Class Structures** 

Generally vote FOR resolutions that seek to maintain or convert to a one-share, one-vote capital structure.

Generally vote AGAINST requests for the creation or continuation of dual-class capital structures or the creation of new or additional super voting shares.

**Share Issuance Requests** 

*General Issuances:* Generally vote FOR issuance requests with preemptive rights to a maximum of 100% over currently issued capital or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law.

Generally vote FOR issuance requests without preemptive rights to a maximum of 20% of currently issued capital or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law.

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*Specific Issuances:* 

Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis on all requests, with or without preemptive rights.

**Increases in Authorized Capital** 

Generally vote FOR non-specific proposals to increase authorized capital up to 100% over the current authorization unless the increase would leave the company with less than 30% of its new authorization outstanding, or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law.

Generally vote FOR specific proposals to increase authorized capital to any amount, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The specific purpose of the increase (such as a share-based acquisition or merger) does not meet guidelines for
the purpose being proposed; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The increase would leave the company with less than 30% of its new authorization outstanding after adjusting for
all proposed issuances or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to adopt unlimited capital authorizations.

**Reduction of Capital** 

Generally vote FOR proposals to reduce capital for routine accounting purposes unless the terms are unfavorable to shareholders.

Vote proposals to reduce capital in connection with corporate restructuring on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Preferred Stock** 

Generally vote FOR the creation of a new class of preferred stock or for issuances of preferred stock up to 50% of issued capital unless the terms of the preferred stock would adversely affect the rights of existing shareholders.

Generally vote FOR the creation/issuance of convertible preferred stock as long as the maximum number of common shares that could be issued upon conversion meets guidelines on equity issuance requests.

Generally vote AGAINST the creation of a new class of preference shares that would carry superior voting rights to the common shares.

Generally vote AGAINST the creation of blank check preferred stock unless the board clearly states that the authorization will not be used to thwart a takeover bid.

Vote proposals to increase blank check preferred authorizations on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Debt Issuance Requests** 

Vote non-convertible debt issuance requests on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, with or without preemptive rights.

Generally vote FOR the creation/issuance of convertible debt instruments as long as the maximum number of common shares that could be issued upon conversion meets guidelines on equity issuance requests.

Generally vote FOR proposals to restructure existing debt arrangements unless the terms of the restructuring would adversely affect the rights of shareholders.

**Increase in Borrowing Powers** 

Vote proposals to approve increases in a company's borrowing powers on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Share Repurchase Plans** 

We will generally vote FOR share repurchase programs taking into account whether:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The share repurchase program can be used as a takeover defense;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is clear evidence of historical abuse;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is no safeguard in the share repurchase program against selective buybacks; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Pricing provisions and safeguards in the share repurchase program are deemed to be unreasonable in light of
market practice.

**Reissuance of Repurchased Shares** 

Generally vote FOR requests to reissue any repurchased shares unless there is clear evidence of abuse of this authority in the past.

**Capitalization of Reserves for Bonus Issues/Increase in Par Value** 

Generally vote FOR requests to capitalize reserves for bonus issues of shares or to increase par value.

**Related-Party Transactions** 

Vote related-party transactions on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering factors including, but not limited to, the following:

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The parties on either side of the transaction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The nature of the asset to be transferred/service to be provided;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The pricing of the transaction (and any associated professional valuation);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The views of independent directors (where provided);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The views of an independent financial adviser (where appointed);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether any entities party to the transaction (including advisers) is conflicted; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The stated rationale for the transaction, including discussions of timing

**Common and Preferred Stock Authorization** 

Generally vote FOR proposals to increase the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance.

Generally vote FOR proposals to increase the number of shares of preferred stock, as long as there is a commitment to not use the shares for anti-takeover purposes.

**6. Other Management and Shareholder Proposals** 

**Overall Approach** 

Management and shareholder proposals considered under this category could include, among others, requests that a company:

Publish a report or additional information related to the company's business and impact on stakeholders;

Disclose policies related to specific business practices and/or services;

Conduct third party audits, reports or studies related to the company's business practices, services and/or impact on stakeholders

When evaluating management and shareholder proposals, the following factors are generally considered:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the subject of the proposal is considered to be material to the company's business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company's current level of publicly available disclosure, including if the company already discloses
similar information through existing reports or policies;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the company has implemented or formally committed to the implementation of a reporting program based on a
recognized industry group standards or recommendations, such as the International Sustainability Standards Board's Sustainability Accounting Standards, the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board's (SASB) standards, the European
Sustainability Reporting Standards, the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosure's (TCFD) recommendations, or a similar standard;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the information requested concerns business issues that relate to a meaningful percentage of the
company's business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The degree to which the company's stated position on the issues raised in the proposal could affect its
reputation or sales, or leave it vulnerable to a boycott or selective purchasing;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has already responded in some appropriate manner to the request embodied in the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• What other companies in the relevant industry have done in response to the issue addressed in the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the proposal itself is well framed and the cost of preparing the report and/or the implementation is
reasonable;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the subject of the proposal is best left to the discretion of the board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the proposal is legally binding for the board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has material fines or violations in the area and if so, if appropriate actions have already
been taken to remedy going forward; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether providing this information would reveal proprietary or confidential information that would place the
company at a competitive disadvantage.

**Region: Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Proxy Items** 

*The following section is a broad summary of the Guidelines, which form the basis of the Policy with respect to EMEA public equity investments of operating and/or holding companies. Applying these guidelines is subject to certain regional and country-specific exceptions and modifications and is not inclusive of all considerations in each market.* 

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**1. Business Items** 

**Financial Results/Director and Auditor Reports** 

Generally vote FOR approval of financial statements and director and auditor reports, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are serious concerns about the accounts presented, audit procedures used or audit opinion rendered; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company is not responsive to shareholder questions about specific items that should be publicly disclosed.

**Appointment of Auditors and Auditor Fees** 

Generally vote FOR the re-election of auditors and proposals authorizing the board to fix auditor fees unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are serious concerns about the accounts presented, audit procedures used or audit opinion rendered;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is reason to believe that the auditor has rendered an opinion that is neither accurate nor indicative of
the company's financial position;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Name of the proposed auditor has not been published;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The auditors are being changed without explanation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Non-audit-related fees are substantial, or are in excess of standard
annual audit-related fees, or in excess of permitted local limits and guidelines; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The appointment of external auditors if they have previously served the company in an executive capacity or can
otherwise be considered affiliated with the company.

**Appointment of Internal Statutory Auditors** 

Generally vote FOR the appointment or re-election of statutory auditors, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are serious concerns about the statutory reports presented or the audit procedures used;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Questions exist concerning any of the statutory auditors being appointed; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The auditors have previously served the company in an executive capacity or can otherwise be considered
affiliated with the company.

**Reincorporation Proposals** 

Vote reincorporation proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis

**Allocation of Income** 

Generally vote FOR approval of the allocation of income, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The dividend payout ratio has been consistently low without adequate explanation; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The payout is excessive given the company's financial position.

**Stock (Scrip) Dividend Alternative** 

Generally vote FOR most stock (scrip) dividend proposals.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals that do not allow for a cash option unless management demonstrates that the cash option is harmful to shareholder value.

**Amendments to Articles of Association** 

Vote amendments to the articles of association on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Change in Company Fiscal Term** 

Generally vote FOR resolutions to change a company's fiscal term unless a company's motivation for the change is to postpone its annual general meeting.

**Lower Disclosure Threshold for Stock Ownership** 

Generally vote AGAINST resolutions to lower the stock ownership disclosure threshold below 5% unless specific reasons exist to implement a lower threshold.

**Amend Quorum Requirements** 

Vote proposals to amend quorum requirements for shareholder meetings on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Virtual Meetings** 

Generally vote FOR management proposals allowing for the convening of hybrid\* shareholder meetings if it is clear that it is not the intention to hold virtual-only AGMs. Generally vote AGAINST proposals allowing for the convening of virtual-only\* shareholder meetings.

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\* The phrase "virtual-only shareholder meeting" refers to a meeting of shareholders that is held exclusively through the use of online technology without a corresponding in-person meeting. The term "hybrid shareholder meeting" refers to an in-person, or physical, meeting in which shareholders are permitted to participate online.

**Public Benefit Corporation Proposals** 

Generally vote FOR management proposals and CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals related to the conversion of the company into a public benefit corporation.

**Transact Other Business** 

Generally vote AGAINST other business when it appears as a voting item.

**Administrative Requests** 

Generally vote FOR non-contentious administrative management requests.

**2. Board of Directors** 

The board of directors should promote the interests of shareholders by acting in an oversight and/or advisory role; should consist of a majority of independent directors and/or meet local best practice expectations; should be composed of directors with diverse backgrounds and perspectives; and should be held accountable for actions and results related to their responsibilities. The board of directors should seek to comply with commonly accepted corporate governance best practices as well as the corporate governance standards that are applicable in their country and state of incorporation. The board of directors should establish committees to oversee areas such as, but not limited to, audit, executive and non-executive compensation, and director nominations and appointments. The responsibilities of the committees should be publicly disclosed.

**Voting on Director Nominees in Uncontested Elections** 

Vote on director nominees should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis taking into consideration the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Adequate disclosure has not been provided in a timely manner; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are clear concerns over questionable finances or restatements; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There have been questionable transactions or conflicts of interest; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are any records of abuses against minority shareholder interests; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board fails to meet minimum corporate governance standards; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are reservations about:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Director terms

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bundling of proposals to elect directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Disclosure of named nominees

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Overboarded directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Director independence

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Specific concerns about the individual or company, such as criminal wrongdoing or breach of fiduciary
responsibilities; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are other considerations which may include sanction from government or authority, violations of laws and
regulations, or other issues relate to improper business practice, failure to replace management, or egregious actions related to service on other boards.

Generally vote FOR employee and/or labor representatives if they sit on either the audit or compensation committee and are required by law to be on those committees.

Generally vote AGAINST employee and/or labor representatives if they sit on either the audit or compensation committee, if they are not required to be on those committees.

**Director Independence** 

**Classification of Directors** 

**Executive Director** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Employee or executive of the company; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is classified as a non-executive, but receives salary,
fees, bonus, and/or other benefits that are in line with the highest-paid executives of the company.

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**Non-Independent Non-Executive Director (NED)** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is attested by the board to be a non-independent NED;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director specifically designated as a representative of a significant shareholder of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is also an employee or executive of a significant shareholder of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Beneficial owner (direct or indirect) of at least 10% of the company's stock, either in economic terms or in
voting rights (this may be aggregated if voting power is distributed among more than one member of a defined group, e.g., family members who beneficially own less than 10% individually, but collectively own more than 10%), unless market best
practice dictates a lower ownership and/or disclosure threshold (and in other special market-specific circumstances);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Government representative;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Currently provides (or a relative provides) professional services to the company, to an affiliate of the company,
or to an individual officer of the company or of one of its affiliates in excess of $10,000 per year;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Represents customer, supplier, creditor, banker, or other entity with which company maintains
transactional/commercial relationship (unless company discloses information to apply a materiality test);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who has conflicting or cross-directorships with executive directors or the chairman of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Relative of a current employee of the company or its affiliates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Relative of a former executive of the company or its affiliates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A new appointee elected other than by a formal process through the General Meeting (such as a contractual
appointment by a substantial shareholder);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Founder/co-founder/member of founding family but not currently an
employee;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Former executive (a cooling off period may be applied);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Years of service is generally not a determining factor unless it is recommended best practice in a market and/or
in extreme circumstances, in which case it may be considered; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any additional relationship or principle considered to compromise independence under local corporate governance
best practice guidance.

**Independent NED** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• No material connection, either directly or indirectly, to the company other than a board seat.

**Employee Representative** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Represents employees or employee shareholders of the company (classified as "employee representative"
but considered a non-independent NED).

**Director Accountability** 

Generally vote AGAINST individual directors who attend less than 75% of the board and committee meetings without a disclosed valid excuse.

Generally, vote FOR the bundled election of management nominees, unless adequate disclosures of the nominees have not been provided in a timely manner or if one or more of the nominees does not meet the expectation of our policy.

Other items considered for an AGAINST vote include specific concerns about the individual or the company, such as criminal wrongdoing or breach of fiduciary responsibilities, sanctions from government or authority, violations of laws and regulations, the presence of inappropriate related party transactions, or other issues related to improper business practices.

**Discharge of Directors** 

Generally vote FOR the discharge of directors, including members of the management board and/or supervisory board, unless there is reliable information about significant and compelling controversies that the board is not fulfilling its fiduciary duties warranted by:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A lack of oversight or actions by board members which invoke shareholder distrust related to malfeasance or poor
supervision, such as operating in private or company interest rather than in shareholder interest; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any legal issues (e.g., civil/criminal) aiming to hold the board responsible for breach of trust in the past or
related to currently alleged actions yet to be confirmed (and not only the fiscal year in question), such as price fixing, insider trading, bribery, fraud, and other illegal actions; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Other egregious governance issues where shareholders may bring legal action against the company or its directors;
or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis
where a vote against other agenda items are deemed inappropriate.

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**Committee Responsibilities and Expectations** 

The board of directors should establish committees to oversee areas such as, but not limited to, audit, executive and non-executive compensation, and director nominations and appointments. The responsibilities of the committees should be publicly disclosed.

We generally support incumbent directors, taking into consideration the below factors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Material failures of governance, stewardship, or fiduciary responsibilities at the company, including but not
limited to violations of global norms principles and/or other significant global standards;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Failure to disclose material information;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Egregious actions related to the director(s)' service on other boards that raise substantial doubt about his
or her ability to effectively oversee management and serve the best interests of shareholders at any company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board failed to act on a shareholder proposal that received approval of the majority of shares cast for
previous year (a management proposal with other than a FOR recommendation by management will not be considered as sufficient action taken); an adopted proposal that is substantially similar to the original shareholder proposal will be deemed
sufficient; (vote against members of the committee of the board that is responsible for the issue under consideration). If we did not support the shareholder proposal, we may still vote against the committee member(s).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board failed to act on takeover offers where the majority of the shareholders tendered their shares; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If in an extreme situation the board lacks accountability and oversight, coupled with sustained poor performance
relative to peers.

**Audit Committee** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on members of the Audit Committee if poor accounting practices, which rise to a level of serious concern are identified, such as, but not limited to, fraud, misapplication of GAAP, excessive non-audit fees, excessive pledging or hedging of stock by executives, and material weaknesses identified in audit-related disclosures.

Examine the severity, breadth, chronological sequence and duration, as well as the company's efforts at remediation or corrective actions, in determining whether negative vote recommendations are warranted against the members of the Audit Committee who are responsible for the poor accounting practices, or the entire board.

**Remuneration Committee** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on members of the Remuneration Committee, factors considered may include whether:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We voted against the company's MSOP in the previous year, the company's previous MSOP received
significant opposition of votes cast and we are voting against this year's MSOP;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board implements a MSOP on a less frequent basis than the frequency that received the plurality of votes
cast; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The MSOP or equity-based incentive plan proposal item is not on the ballot and the company maintains problematic
pay practices.

**Nominating/Governance Committee** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on members of the Nominating/Governance Committee considering if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A company does not meet the board diversity requirements of local listing rules, corporate governance codes,
national targets, or the board diversity is significantly below that of the average in its market; provided that company performance, or other factors, will generally be taken into consideration;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The level of board independence does not meet the requirements of local regulations, listing rules, corporate
governance codes, or local market best practices;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• At the previous board election, any director received more than 50% withhold/against votes of the shares cast and
the company has failed to address the underlying issue(s) that caused the high withhold/against vote; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board amends the company's bylaws or charter without shareholder approval in a manner that materially
diminishes shareholders' rights or could adversely impact shareholders.

**Voting on Director Nominees in Contested Elections** 

Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis in contested elections of directors, e.g., the election of shareholder nominees or the dismissal of incumbent directors, determining which directors are best suited to add value for shareholders.

The analysis will generally be based on, but not limited to, the following major decision factors:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Company performance relative to its peers;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Strategy of the incumbents versus the dissidents;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Independence of board candidates;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Experience and skills of board candidates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Governance profile of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Evidence of management entrenchment;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Responsiveness to shareholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether a takeover offer has been rebuffed; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether minority or majority representation is being sought.

**Other Board Related Proposals (Management and Shareholder)** 

Generally vote AGAINST management and shareholder proposals introducing classified boards.

Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals regarding mandatory retirement ages for directors.

Generally vote AGAINST management and shareholder proposals to alter board structure or size in the context of a fight for control of the company or the board.

**Independent Board Chair** (for applicable markets)

We will generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals requiring that the chairman's position be filled by an independent director, if the company satisfies 3 of the 4 following criteria:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Two-thirds independent board, or majority in countries where employee
representation is common practice;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A designated, or a rotating, lead director, elected by and from the independent board members with clearly
delineated and comprehensive duties;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Fully independent key committees; and/or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Established, publicly disclosed, governance guidelines and director biographies/profiles.

**3. Remuneration** 

**Pay Practices** 

Good pay practices should align management's interests with long-term shareholder value creation. Detailed disclosure of remuneration criteria is preferred; proof that companies follow the criteria should be evident and retroactive performance target changes without proper disclosure is not viewed favorably. Remuneration practices should allow a company to attract and retain proven talent. Some examples of poor pay practices include: abnormally large bonus payouts without justifiable performance linkage or proper disclosure, egregious employment contracts, excessive severance and/or change in control provisions, repricing or replacing of underwater stock options/stock appreciation rights without prior shareholder approval, and excessive perquisites. A company should also have an appropriate balance of short-term vs. long-term metrics and the metrics should be aligned with business goals and objectives.

If the company maintains problematic or poor pay practices, generally vote:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• AGAINST Management Say on Pay (MSOP) Proposals, Remuneration Reports; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• AGAINST an equity-based incentive plan proposal if excessive non-performance-based equity awards are the major contributor to a pay-for-performance misalignment.

**Remuneration Plans** 

When a disconnect between pay and performance exists, pay practices that may result in a vote AGAINST management proposals on an advisory vote on executive compensation may include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lack of transparent disclosure of compensation philosophy and goals and targets, including details on short-term
and long-term performance incentives;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Long term incentive awards consisting of less than 50% performance-based awards;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lack of the board's response to failed MSOP vote the previous year;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Abnormally large bonus payouts without justifiable performance linkage or proper disclosure;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Egregious employment or retention contracts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Excessive perquisites or excessive severance and/or change in control provisions; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Extraordinary relocation benefits.

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**Non-Executive Director Compensation** 

Generally vote FOR proposals to award cash fees to non-executive directors unless the amounts are excessive relative to other companies in the country or industry.

Vote non-executive director compensation proposals that include both cash and share-based components on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

Vote proposals that bundle compensation for both non-executive and executive directors into a single resolution on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to introduce retirement benefits for non-executive directors.

**Director, Officer, and Auditor Indemnification and Liability Provisions** 

Vote proposals seeking indemnification and liability protection for directors and officers on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to indemnify auditors.

**Other Remuneration Related Proposals** 

Vote on other remuneration related proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**4. Shareholder Rights and Defenses** 

**Antitakeover Mechanisms** 

Generally vote AGAINST all antitakeover proposals, unless they are structured in such a way that they give shareholders the ultimate decision on any proposal or offer.

For the Netherlands, vote recommendations regarding management proposals to approve protective preference shares will be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

For French companies listed on a regulated market, generally vote AGAINST any general authorities impacting the share capital (i.e. authorities for share repurchase plans and any general share issuances with or without preemptive rights) if they can be used for antitakeover purposes without shareholders' prior explicit approval.

**5. Strategic Transactions, Capital Structures and other Business Considerations** 

**Reorganizations/Restructurings** 

Vote reorganizations and restructurings on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Mergers and Acquisitions** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on mergers and acquisitions taking into account the following based on publicly available information:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Valuation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Market reaction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Strategic rationale;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Management's track record of successful integration of historical acquisitions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Presence of conflicts of interest; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Governance profile of the combined company.

**Dual Class Structures** 

Generally vote FOR resolutions that seek to maintain or convert to a one-share, one-vote capital structure.

Generally vote AGAINST requests for the creation or continuation of dual-class capital structures or the creation of new or additional super voting shares.

**Share Issuance Requests** 

*General Issuances:* 

Generally vote FOR issuance requests with preemptive rights to a maximum of 100% over currently issued capital or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law.

Generally vote FOR issuance requests without preemptive rights to a maximum of 20% of currently issued capital or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law.

*Specific Issuances:* 

Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis on all requests, with or without preemptive rights.

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**Increases in Authorized Capital** 

Generally vote FOR non-specific proposals to increase authorized capital up to 100% over the current authorization unless the increase would leave the company with less than 30% of its new authorization outstanding, or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law.

Generally vote FOR specific proposals to increase authorized capital to any amount, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The specific purpose of the increase (such as a share-based acquisition or merger) does not meet guidelines for
the purpose being proposed; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The increase would leave the company with less than 30% of its new authorization outstanding after adjusting for
all proposed issuances or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to adopt unlimited capital authorizations.

**Reduction of Capital** 

Generally vote FOR proposals to reduce capital for routine accounting purposes unless the terms are unfavorable to shareholders.

Vote proposals to reduce capital in connection with corporate restructuring on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Preferred Stock** 

Generally vote FOR the creation of a new class of preferred stock or for issuances of preferred stock up to 50% of issued capital unless the terms of the preferred stock would adversely affect the rights of existing shareholders.

Generally vote FOR the creation/issuance of convertible preferred stock as long as the maximum number of common

shares that could be issued upon conversion meets guidelines on equity issuance requests.

Generally vote AGAINST the creation of a new class of preference shares that would carry superior voting rights to the common shares.

Generally vote AGAINST the creation of blank check preferred stock unless the board clearly states that the authorization will not be used to thwart a takeover bid.

Vote proposals to increase blank check preferred authorizations on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Debt Issuance Requests** 

Vote non-convertible debt issuance requests on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, with or without preemptive rights.

Generally vote FOR the creation/issuance of convertible debt instruments as long as the maximum number of common shares that could be issued upon conversion meets guidelines on equity issuance requests.

Generally vote FOR proposals to restructure existing debt arrangements unless the terms of the restructuring would adversely affect the rights of shareholders.

**Increase in Borrowing Powers** 

Vote proposals to approve increases in a company's borrowing powers on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Share Repurchase Plans** 

We will generally vote FOR share repurchase programs taking into account whether:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The share repurchase program can be used as a takeover defense;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is clear evidence of historical abuse;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is no safeguard in the share repurchase program against selective buybacks; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Pricing provisions and safeguards in the share repurchase program are deemed to be unreasonable in light of
market practice.

**Reissuance of Repurchased Shares** 

Generally vote FOR requests to reissue any repurchased shares unless there is clear evidence of abuse of this authority in the past.

**Capitalization of Reserves for Bonus Issues/Increase in Par Value** 

Generally vote FOR requests to capitalize reserves for bonus issues of shares or to increase par value.

**Related-Party Transactions** 

Vote related-party transactions on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering factors including, but not limited to, the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The parties on either side of the transaction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The nature of the asset to be transferred/service to be provided;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The pricing of the transaction (and any associated professional valuation);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The views of independent directors (where provided);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The views of an independent financial adviser (where appointed);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether any entities party to the transaction (including advisers) is conflicted; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The stated rationale for the transaction, including discussions of timing

**6. Other Management and Shareholder Proposals** 

**Overall Approach** 

Management and shareholder proposals considered under this category could include, among others, requests that a

**company:** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Publish a report or additional information related to the company's business and impact on stakeholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Disclose policies related to specific business practices and/or services;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Conduct third party audits, reports or studies related to the company's business practices, services and/or
impact on stakeholders

When evaluating management and shareholder proposals, the following factors are generally considered:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the subject of the proposal is considered to be material to the company's business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company's current level of publicly available disclosure, including if the company already discloses
similar information through existing reports or policies;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the company has implemented or formally committed to the implementation of a reporting program based on a
recognized industry group standards or recommendations, such as the International Sustainability Standards Board's Sustainability Accounting Standards, the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board's (SASB) standards, the European
Sustainability Reporting Standards, the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosure's (TCFD) recommendations, or a similar standard;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the information requested concerns business issues that relate to a meaningful percentage of the
company's business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The degree to which the company's stated position on the issues raised in the proposal could affect its
reputation or sales, or leave it vulnerable to a boycott or selective purchasing;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has already responded in some appropriate manner to the request embodied in the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• What other companies in the relevant industry have done in response to the issue addressed in the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the proposal itself is well framed and the cost of preparing the report and/or the implementation is
reasonable;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the subject of the proposal is best left to the discretion of the board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the proposal is legally binding for the board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has material fines or violations in the area and if so, if appropriate actions have already
been taken to remedy going forward; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether providing this information would reveal proprietary or confidential information that would place the
company at a competitive disadvantage.

**Region: Asia Pacific (APAC) Proxy Items** 

*The following section is a broad summary of the Guidelines, which form the basis of the Policy with respect to APAC public equity investments of operating and/or holding companies. Applying these guidelines is subject to certain regional and country-specific exceptions and modifications and is not inclusive of all considerations in each market. For Japan-specific policies, see the Japan Proxy Items section.* 

**1. Business Items** 

**Financial Results/Director and Auditor Reports** 

Generally vote FOR approval of financial statements and director and auditor reports, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are serious concerns about the accounts presented, audit procedures used or audit opinion rendered; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company is not responsive to shareholder questions about specific items that should be publicly disclosed.

**Appointment of Auditors and Auditor Fees** 

Generally vote FOR the re-election of auditors and proposals authorizing the board to fix auditor fees unless:

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are serious concerns about the accounts presented, audit procedures used or audit opinion rendered;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is reason to believe that the auditor has rendered an opinion that is neither accurate nor indicative of
the company's financial position;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Name of the proposed auditor has not been published;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The auditors are being changed without explanation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Non-audit-related fees are substantial, or are in excess of standard
annual audit-related fees, or in excess of permitted local limits and guidelines; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The appointment of external auditors if they have previously served the company in an executive capacity or can
otherwise be considered affiliated with the company.

**Allocation of Income** 

Generally vote FOR approval of the allocation of income, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The dividend payout ratio has been consistently low without adequate explanation; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The payout is excessive given the company's financial position.

**Stock (Scrip) Dividend Alternative** 

Generally vote FOR most stock (scrip) dividend proposals.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals that do not allow for a cash option unless management demonstrates that the cash option is harmful to shareholder value.

**Amendments to Articles of Association and Company Bylaws** 

Vote amendments to the articles of association and Company Bylaws on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Change in Company Fiscal Term** 

Generally vote FOR resolutions to change a company's fiscal term unless a company's motivation for the change is to postpone its annual general meeting.

**Lower Disclosure Threshold for Stock Ownership** 

Generally vote AGAINST resolutions to lower the stock ownership disclosure threshold below 5% unless specific reasons exist to implement a lower threshold.

**Amend Quorum Requirements** 

Vote proposals to amend quorum requirements for shareholder meetings on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Virtual Meetings** 

Generally vote FOR proposals allowing for the convening of hybrid\* shareholder meetings if it is clear that it is not the intention to hold virtual-only AGMs. Generally vote AGAINST proposals allowing for the convening of virtual- only\* shareholder meetings.

\* The phrase "virtual-only shareholder meeting" refers to a meeting of shareholders that is held exclusively through the use of online technology without a corresponding in-person meeting. The term "hybrid shareholder meeting" refers to an in-person, or physical, meeting in which shareholders are permitted to participate online.

**Transact Other Business** 

Generally vote AGAINST other business when it appears as a voting item.

**Administrative Requests** 

Generally vote FOR non-contentious administrative management requests.

**2. Board of Directors** 

The board of directors should promote the interests of shareholders by acting in an oversight and/or advisory role; should consist of a majority of independent directors and/or meet local best practice expectations; should be composed of directors with diverse backgrounds and perspectives; and should be held accountable for actions and results related to their responsibilities. The board of directors should seek to comply with commonly accepted corporate governance best practices as well as the corporate governance standards that are applicable in their country and state of incorporation. The board of directors should establish committees to oversee areas such as, but not limited to, audit, executive and non-executive compensation, and director nominations and appointments. The responsibilities of the committees should be publicly disclosed.

**Voting on Director Nominees in Uncontested Elections** 

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Vote on director nominees should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis taking into consideration the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Adequate disclosure has not been provided in a timely manner; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are clear concerns over questionable finances or restatements; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There have been questionable transactions or conflicts of interest; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are any records of abuses against minority shareholder interests; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board fails to meet minimum corporate governance standards; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are reservations about:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Director terms

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bundling of proposals to elect directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Disclosure of named nominees

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Overboarded directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Director independence

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Specific concerns about the individual or company, such as criminal wrongdoing or breach of fiduciary
responsibilities; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are other considerations which may include sanction from government or authority, violations of laws and
regulations, or other issues relate to improper business practice, failure to replace management, or egregious actions related to service on other boards.

**Director Independence** 

**Classification of Directors** 

**Executive Director** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Employee or executive of the company; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is classified as a non-executive, but receives salary,
fees, bonus, and/or other benefits that are in line with the highest-paid executives of the company.

**Non-Independent Non-Executive Director (NED)** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is attested by the board to be a non-independent NED;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director specifically designated as a representative of a significant shareholder of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is also an employee or executive of a significant shareholder of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Beneficial owner (direct or indirect) of at least 10% of the company's stock, either in economic terms or in
voting rights (this may be aggregated if voting power is distributed among more than one member of a defined group, e.g., family members who beneficially own less than 10% individually, but collectively own more than 10%), unless market best
practice dictates a lower ownership and/or disclosure threshold (and in other special market-specific circumstances);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Government representative;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Currently provides (or a relative provides) professional services to the company, to an affiliate of the company,
or to an individual officer of the company or of one of its affiliates in excess of $10,000 per year;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Represents customer, supplier, creditor, banker, or other entity with which company maintains
transactional/commercial relationship (unless company discloses information to apply a materiality test);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who has conflicting or cross-directorships with executive directors or the chairman of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Relative of a current employee of the company or its affiliates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Relative of a former executive of the company or its affiliates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A new appointee elected other than by a formal process through the General Meeting (such as a contractual
appointment by a substantial shareholder);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Founder/co-founder/member of founding family but not currently an
employee;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Former executive (a cooling off period may be applied);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• In markets where local regulations or standards require a maximum tenure, directors with excess tenure will be
considered non-independent, except in certain cases where the company discloses a clear justification; and

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any additional relationship or principle considered to compromise independence under local corporate governance
best practice guidance.

**Independent NED** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• No material connection, either directly or indirectly, to the company other than a board seat.

**Employee Representative** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Represents employees or employee shareholders of the company (classified as "employee representative"
but considered a non-independent NED).

**Director Accountability** 

Generally vote AGAINST individual directors who attend less than 75% of the board and committee meetings without a disclosed valid excuse.

Generally, vote FOR the bundled election of management nominees, unless adequate disclosures of the nominees have not been provided in a timely manner or if one or more of the nominees does not meet the expectation of our policy.

Other items considered for an AGAINST vote include specific concerns about the individual or the company, such as criminal wrongdoing or breach of fiduciary responsibilities, sanctions from government or authority, violations of laws and regulations, the presence of inappropriate related party transactions, or other issues related to improper business practices

**Discharge of Directors** 

Generally vote FOR the discharge of directors, including members of the management board and/or supervisory board, unless there is reliable information about significant and compelling controversies that the board is not fulfilling its fiduciary duties warranted by:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A lack of oversight or actions by board members which invoke shareholder distrust related to malfeasance or poor
supervision, such as operating in private or company interest rather than in shareholder interest; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any legal issues (e.g., civil/criminal) aiming to hold the board responsible for breach of trust in the past or
related to currently alleged actions yet to be confirmed (and not only the fiscal year in question), such as price fixing, insider trading, bribery, fraud, and other illegal actions; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Other egregious governance issues where shareholders may bring legal action against the company or its directors;
or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis
where a vote against other agenda items are deemed inappropriate.

**Committee Responsibilities and Expectations** 

The board of directors should establish committees to oversee areas such as, but not limited to, audit, executive and non-executive compensation, and director nominations and appointments. The responsibilities of the committees should be publicly disclosed.

We generally support incumbent directors, taking into consideration the below factors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Material failures of governance, stewardship, or fiduciary responsibilities at the company, including but not
limited to violations of global norms principles and/or other significant global standards;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Failure to disclose material information;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Egregious actions related to the director(s)' service on other boards that raise substantial doubt about his
or her ability to effectively oversee management and serve the best interests of shareholders at any company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board failed to act on a shareholder proposal that received approval of the majority of shares cast the
previous year (a management proposal with other than a FOR recommendation by management will not be considered as sufficient action taken); an adopted proposal that is substantially similar to the original shareholder proposal will be deemed
sufficient; (vote against members of the committee of the board that is responsible for the issue under consideration). If we did not support the shareholder proposal, we may still vote against the committee member(s).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board failed to act on takeover offers where the majority of the shareholders tendered their shares; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If in an extreme situation the board lacks accountability and oversight, coupled with sustained poor performance
relative to peers.

**Audit Committee** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on members of the Audit Committee if poor accounting practices, which rise to a level of serious concern are identified, such as, but not limited to, fraud, misapplication of GAAP, excessive non-audit fees, excessive pledging or hedging of stock by executives, and material weaknesses identified in aduti-related disclosures.

Examine the severity, breadth, chronological sequence and duration, as well as the company's efforts at remediation or corrective actions, in determining whether negative vote recommendations are warranted against the members of the Audit Committee who are responsible for the poor accounting practices, or the entire board.

Generally vote AGAINST Audit Committee members who are classified as promoters or beneficial owners in the company (India).

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**Remuneration Committee (Australia)** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on members of the Remuneration Committee, factors considered may include whether:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We voted against the company's Remuneration Report in the previous year, the company's previous
Remuneration Report received significant opposition of votes cast and we are voting against this year's Remuneration Report; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The remuneration structure is widely inconsistent with local market best practices or regulations.

**Nominating Committee** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on members of the Nominating/Governance Committee considering if:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A company does not meet the board diversity requirements of local listing rules, corporate governance codes,
national targets, or the board diversity is significantly below that of the average in its market; provided that company performance, or other factors, will generally be taken into consideration; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The level of board independence does not meet the requirements of local regulations, listing rules, corporate
governance codes, or local market best practices.

**Voting on Director Nominees in Contested Elections** 

Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis in contested elections of directors, e.g., the election of shareholder nominees or the dismissal of incumbent directors, determining which directors are best suited to add value for shareholders.

The analysis will generally be based on, but not limited to, the following major decision factors:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Company performance relative to its peers;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Strategy of the incumbents versus the dissidents;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Independence of board candidates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Experience and skills of board candidates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Governance profile of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Evidence of management entrenchment;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Responsiveness to shareholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether a takeover offer has been rebuffed; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether minority or majority representation is being sought.

**Other Board Related Proposals (Management and Shareholder)** 

Generally vote AGAINST management and shareholder proposals introducing classified boards.

Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals regarding mandatory retirement ages for directors.

Generally vote AGAINST management and shareholder proposals to alter board structure or size in the context of a fight for control of the company or the board.

**Independent Board Chair (applicable markets)** 

We will generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals requiring that the chairman's position be filled by an independent director, if the company satisfies 3 of the 4 following criteria:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Two-thirds independent board, or majority in countries where employee
representation is common practice;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A designated, or a rotating, lead director, elected by and from the independent board members with clearly
delineated and comprehensive duties;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Fully independent key committees; and/or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Established, publicly disclosed, governance guidelines and director biographies/profiles.

**3. Remuneration** 

**Pay Practices** 

Good pay practices should align management's interests with long-term shareholder value creation. Detailed disclosure of remuneration criteria is preferred; proof that companies follow the criteria should be evident and retroactive performance target changes without proper disclosure is not viewed favorably. Remuneration practices should allow a company to attract and retain proven talent. Some examples of poor pay practices include: abnormally large bonus payouts without justifiable performance linkage or proper disclosure, egregious employment contracts, excessive severance

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and/or change in control provisions, repricing or replacing of underwater stock options/stock appreciation rights without prior shareholder approval, and excessive perquisites. A company should also have an appropriate balance of short-term vs. long-term metrics and the metrics should be aligned with business goals and objectives.

If the company maintains problematic or poor pay practices, generally vote:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• AGAINST Remuneration Reports; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• AGAINST an equity-based incentive plan proposal if excessive non-performance-based equity awards are the major contributor to a pay-for-performance misalignment.

**Remuneration Reports (Australia)** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on management proposals for a vote on remuneration reports, considering the following factors in the context of each company's specific circumstances and the board's disclosed rationale for its practices.

When a disconnect between pay and performance exists, pay practices that may result in a vote AGAINST management proposals the company's remuneration report may include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lack of transparent disclosure of compensation philosophy and goals and targets, including details on short-term
and long-term performance incentives;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Long term incentive awards consisting of less than 50% performance-based awards;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Lack of the board's response to failed MSOP vote the previous year;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Abnormally large bonus payouts without justifiable performance linkage or proper disclosure;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Egregious employment or retention contracts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Excessive perquisites or excessive severance and/or change in control provisions; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Extraordinary relocation benefits.

**Equity-based / Stock Option Compensation Plans** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on equity compensation plans, considering factors such as:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Level of potential dilution (generally within 5% for mature companies and 10% for growth companies, or within
local market best practices);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Length of vesting period;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Appropriate performance hurdles;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Adequate disclosure of the remuneration plan;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Governance and administration of the remuneration plan; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any other concerns which may negatively impact shareholder value or alignment of incentives.

**Non-Executive Director Compensation** 

Generally vote FOR proposals to award cash fees to non-executive directors unless the amounts are excessive relative to other companies in the country or industry.

Vote non-executive director compensation proposals that include both cash and share-based components on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

Vote proposals that bundle compensation for both non-executive and executive directors into a single resolution on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to introduce retirement benefits for non-executive directors.

**Director, Officer, and Auditor Indemnification and Liability Provisions** 

Vote proposals seeking indemnification and liability protection for directors and officers on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to indemnify auditors.

**Other Remuneration Related Proposals** 

Vote on other remuneration related proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**4. Shareholder Rights and Defenses** 

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**Antitakeover Mechanisms** 

Generally vote AGAINST all antitakeover proposals, unless they are structured in such a way that they give shareholders the ultimate decision on any proposal or offer.

**5. Strategic Transactions, Capital Structures and other Business Considerations** 

**Reorganizations/Restructurings** 

Vote reorganizations and restructurings on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Mergers and Acquisitions** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on mergers and acquisitions taking into account the following based on publicly available information:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Valuation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Market reaction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Strategic rationale;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Management's track record of successful integration of historical acquisitions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Presence of conflicts of interest; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Governance profile of the combined company.

**Dual Class Structures** 

Generally vote FOR resolutions that seek to maintain or convert to a one-share, one-vote capital structure.

Generally vote AGAINST requests for the creation or continuation of dual-class capital structures or the creation of new or additional super voting shares.

**Share Issuance Requests** 

*General Issuances:* 

Generally vote FOR issuance requests with preemptive rights to a maximum of 100% over currently issued capital or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law (50% in Singapore).

Generally vote FOR issuance requests without preemptive rights to a maximum of 20% of currently issued capital or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law (15% in Australia, 10% in Hong Kong and Singapore Mainboard).

Generally vote FOR issuance requests without preemptive rights to a maximum of 25% of currently issued capital (India).

*Specific Issuances:* 

Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis on all requests, with or without preemptive rights.

**Increases in Authorized Capital** 

Generally vote FOR non-specific proposals to increase authorized capital up to 100% over the current authorization unless the increase would leave the company with less than 30% of its new authorization outstanding, or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law.

Generally vote FOR specific proposals to increase authorized capital to any amount, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The specific purpose of the increase (such as a share-based acquisition or merger) does not meet guidelines for
the purpose being proposed; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The increase would leave the company with less than 30% of its new authorization outstanding after adjusting for
all proposed issuances, or any stricter limit set in local best practice recommendations or law

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to adopt unlimited capital authorizations.

**Reduction of Capital** 

Generally vote FOR proposals to reduce capital for routine accounting purposes unless the terms are unfavorable to shareholders.

Vote proposals to reduce capital in connection with corporate restructuring on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Preferred Stock** 

Generally vote FOR the creation of a new class of preferred stock or for issuances of preferred stock up to 50% of issued capital unless the terms of the preferred stock would adversely affect the rights of existing shareholders.

Generally vote FOR the creation/issuance of convertible preferred stock as long as the maximum number of common shares that could be issued upon conversion meets guidelines on equity issuance requests.

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Generally vote AGAINST the creation of a new class of preference shares that would carry superior voting rights to the common shares.

Generally vote AGAINST the creation of blank check preferred stock unless the board clearly states that the authorization will not be used to thwart a takeover bid.

**Debt Issuance Requests** 

Vote non-convertible debt issuance requests on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, with or without preemptive rights.

Generally vote FOR the creation/issuance of convertible debt instruments as long as the maximum number of common shares that could be issued upon conversion meets guidelines on equity issuance requests.

Generally vote FOR proposals to restructure existing debt arrangements unless the terms of the restructuring would adversely affect the rights of shareholders.

**Increase in Borrowing Powers** 

Vote proposals to approve increases in a company's borrowing powers on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Share Repurchase Plans** 

We will generally vote FOR share repurchase programs taking into account whether:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The share repurchase program can be used as a takeover defense;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is clear evidence of historical abuse;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is no safeguard in the share repurchase program against selective buybacks; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Pricing provisions and safeguards in the share repurchase program are deemed to be unreasonable in light of
market practice.

**Reissuance of Repurchased Shares** 

Generally vote FOR requests to reissue any repurchased shares unless there is clear evidence of abuse of this authority in the past.

**Capitalization of Reserves for Bonus Issues/Increase in Par Value** 

Generally vote FOR requests to capitalize reserves for bonus issues of shares or to increase par value.

**Related-Party Transactions** 

Vote related-party transactions on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering factors including, but not limited to, the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The parties on either side of the transaction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The nature of the asset to be transferred/service to be provided;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The pricing of the transaction (and any associated professional valuation);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The views of independent directors (where provided);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The views of an independent financial adviser (where appointed);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether any entities party to the transaction (including advisers) is conflicted; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The stated rationale for the transaction, including discussions of timing

**6. Other Management and Shareholder Proposals** 

**Overall Approach** 

Management and shareholder proposals considered under this category could include, among others, requests that a company:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Publish a report or additional information related to the company's business and impact on stakeholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Disclose policies related to specific business practices and/or services;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Conduct third party audits, reports or studies related to the company's business practices, services and/or
impact on stakeholders

When evaluating management and shareholder proposals, the following factors are generally considered:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the subject of the proposal is considered to be material to the company's business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company's current level of publicly available disclosure, including if the company already discloses
similar information through existing reports or policies;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the company has implemented or formally committed to the implementation of a reporting program based on a
recognized industry group standards or recommendations, such as the International Sustainability Standards Board's Sustainability Accounting Standards, the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board's (SASB) standards, the European
Sustainability Reporting Standards, the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosure's (TCFD) recommendations, or a similar standard;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the information requested concerns business issues that relate to a meaningful percentage of the
company's business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The degree to which the company's stated position on the issues raised in the proposal could affect its
reputation or sales, or leave it vulnerable to a boycott or selective purchasing;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has already responded in some appropriate manner to the request embodied in the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• What other companies in the relevant industry have done in response to the issue addressed in the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the proposal itself is well framed and the cost of preparing the report and/or the implementation is
reasonable;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the subject of the proposal is best left to the discretion of the board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the proposal is legally binding for the board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has material fines or violations in the area and if so, if appropriate actions have already
been taken to remedy going forward; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether providing this information would reveal proprietary or confidential information that would place the
company at a competitive disadvantage.

**Region: Japan Proxy Items** 

*The following section is a broad summary of the Guidelines, which form the basis of the Policy with respect to Japanese public equity investments of operating and/or holding companies. Applying these guidelines is not inclusive of all considerations in the Japanese market.* 

**1. Operational Items** 

**Financial Results/Director and Auditor Reports** 

Generally vote FOR approval of financial statements and director and auditor reports, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are concerns about the accounts presented or audit procedures used; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company is not responsive to shareholder questions about specific items that should be publicly disclosed.

**Appointment of Auditors and Auditor Fees** 

Generally vote FOR the re-election of auditors and proposals authorizing the board to fix auditor fees, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are serious concerns about the accounts presented, audit procedures used or audit opinion rendered;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is reason to believe that the auditor has rendered an opinion that is neither accurate nor indicative of
the company's financial position;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Name of the proposed auditor has not been published;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The auditors are being changed without explanation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Non-audit-related fees are substantial or are in excess of standard
annual audit-related fees; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The appointment of external auditors if they have previously served the company in an executive capacity or can
otherwise be considered affiliated with the company.

**Allocation of Income** 

Generally vote FOR approval of the allocation of income, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The dividend payout ratio has been consistently low without adequate explanation; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The payout is excessive given the company's financial position;

**Amendments to Articles of Association** 

Vote amendments to the articles of association on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Change in Company Fiscal Term** 

Generally vote FOR resolutions to change a company's fiscal term unless a company's motivation for the change is to postpone its annual general meeting.

**Amend Quorum Requirements** 

Vote proposals to amend quorum requirements for shareholder meetings on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

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**Virtual Meetings** 

Generally vote AGAINST management proposals allowing for the convening of virtual-only\* shareholder meetings.

\* The phrase "virtual-only shareholder meeting" refers to a meeting of shareholders that is held exclusively through the use of online technology without a corresponding in-person meeting. The term "hybrid shareholder meeting" refers to an in-person, or physical, meeting in which shareholders are permitted to participate online.

**2. Board of Directors and Statutory Auditors** 

The board of directors should promote the interests of shareholders by acting in an oversight and/or advisory role; should consist of a majority of independent directors and/or meet local best practice expectations; should be composed of directors with diverse backgrounds and perspectives; and should be held accountable for actions and results related to their responsibilities. The board of directors should seek to comply with commonly accepted corporate governance best practices as well as the corporate governance standards that are applicable in this market. The board of directors should establish committees to oversee areas such as, but not limited to, audit, executive and non-executive compensation, and director nominations and appointments. The responsibilities of the committees should be publicly disclosed.

**Voting on Director Nominees in Uncontested Elections** 

Vote on director nominees should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis taking into consideration the following:.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company's committee structure: statutory auditor board structure, U.S.-type three committee structure,
or audit committee structure; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Adequate disclosure has not been provided in a timely manner; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are clear concerns over questionable finances or restatements; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There have been questionable transactions or conflicts of interest; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are any records of abuses against minority shareholder interests; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board fails to meet minimum corporate governance standards; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are reservations about:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Director terms

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bundling of proposals to elect directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Disclosure of named nominees

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Overboarded directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Director independence

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Specific concerns about the individual or company, such as criminal wrongdoing or breach of fiduciary
responsibilities; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are other considerations which may include sanctions from government or authority, violations of laws and
regulations, or other issues related to improper business practice, failure to replace management, or egregious actions related to service on other boards.

Generally vote AGAINST top executives when the company has an excessive amount of strategic shareholdings.

Generally vote AGAINST top executives when the company has posted average return on equity (ROE) of less than five percent over the last five fiscal years.

**Director Independence** 

**Classification of Directors** 

**Inside Director** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Employee or executive of the company; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is not classified as an outside director of the company.

**Non-Independent Non-Executive Director (affiliated outsider)** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director specifically designated as a representative of a significant shareholder of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who is/was also an employee or executive of a significant shareholder of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Beneficial owner (direct or indirect) of at least 10% of the company's stock, or one of the top 10
shareholders, either in economic terms or in voting rights (this may be aggregated if voting power is distributed among more than one member of a defined group, e.g., family members who beneficially own less than 10% individually, but collectively
own more than 10%)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Individuals who are employees or were previously employed at main lenders/banks of the company;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Relative of a current employee of the company or its affiliates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who works or has worked at a company whose shares are held by the company in question as strategic
shareholdings (i.e. "cross-shareholdings")

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any director who has served at a company as an outside director for 12 years or more;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Any additional relationship or principle considered to compromise independence

**Independent Non-Executive Directors (independent outsider)** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• No material connection, either directly or indirectly, to the company other than a board seat.

At companies adopting a board with a statutory auditor committee structure or an audit committee structure, generally vote AGAINST top executives when the board consists of fewer than two independent outside directors or less than 1/3 of the board consists of independent outside directors. Additionally, if the company is a member of the TOPIX 100 index, generally vote AGAINST top executives when less than 1/2 of the board consists of outside directors.

At companies adopting an audit committee structure, generally vote AGAINST affiliated outside directors who are audit committee members.

At companies adopting a U.S.-type three committee structure, generally vote AGAINST members of the Nominating Committee when less than a majority of the board consists of independent outside directors.

At controlled companies adopting board with a statutory auditor structure or an audit committee structure, generally vote AGAINST top executives if the board does not consist of majority independent outside directors.

**Director Accountability** 

Generally vote AGAINST individual outside directors who attend less than 75% of the board and/or committee meetings without a disclosed valid excuse.

Other items considered for an AGAINST vote include specific concerns about the individual or the company, such as criminal wrongdoing or breach of fiduciary responsibilities, sanctions from government or authority, violations of laws and regulations, the presence of inappropriate related party transactions, or other issues related to improper business practices

**Committee Responsibilities and Expectations** 

The board of directors should establish committees to oversee areas such as, but not limited to, audit, executive and non-executive compensation, and director nominations and appointments. The responsibilities of the committees should be publicly disclosed.

We generally support incumbent directors, taking into consideration the below factors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Material failures of governance, stewardship, or fiduciary responsibilities at the company, including but not
limited to violations of global norms principles and/or other significant global standards;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Failure to disclose material information;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Egregious actions related to the director(s)' service on other boards that raise substantial doubt about his
or her ability to effectively oversee management and serve the best interests of shareholders at any company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board adopts or renews a poison pill without shareholder approval, does not commit to putting it to
shareholder vote within 12 months of adoption (or in the case of a newly public company, does not commit to put the pill to a shareholder vote within 12 months following the IPO), or reneges on a commitment to put the pill to a vote, and has not yet
received a withhold/against recommendation for this issue;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board failed to act on takeover offers where the majority of the shareholders tendered their shares; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If in an extreme situation the board lacks accountability and oversight, coupled with sustained poor performance
relative to peers.

Generally vote AGAINST members of the Nominating Committee or top executives if the board diversity is significantly below that of the average in its market; provided that company performance, or other factors, will generally be taken into consideration.

**Voting on Director Nominees in Contested Elections** 

Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis in contested elections of directors, e.g., the election of shareholder nominees or the dismissal of incumbent directors, determining which directors are best suited to add value for shareholders.

The analysis will generally be based on, but not limited to, the following major decision factors:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Company performance relative to its peers;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Strategy of the incumbents versus the dissidents;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Independence of board candidates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Experience and skills of board candidates;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Governance profile of the company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Evidence of management entrenchment;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Responsiveness to shareholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether a takeover offer has been rebuffed;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether minority or majority representation is being sought.

**Other Board Related Proposals (Management and Shareholder)** 

Generally vote AGAINST management and shareholder proposals introducing classified boards.

Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals regarding mandatory retirement ages for directors.

Generally vote AGAINST management and shareholder proposals to alter board structure or size in the context of a fight for control of the company or the board.

**Independent Board Chair (applicable markets)** 

We will generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals requiring that the chairman's position be filled by an independent director, if the company satisfies 3 of the 4 following criteria:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Two-thirds independent board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A designated, or a rotating, lead director, elected by and from the independent board members with clearly
delineated and comprehensive duties;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Fully independent key committees; and/or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Established, publicly disclosed, governance guidelines and director biographies/profiles.

**Statutory Auditor Elections** 

Generally vote AGAINST affiliated outside statutory auditors.

For definition of affiliated outsiders, see "Classification of Directors"

Generally vote FOR management nominees taking into consideration the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Adequate disclosure has not been provided in a timely manner;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are clear concerns over questionable finances or restatements;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There have been questionable transactions or conflicts of interest;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There are any records of abuses against minority shareholder interests;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The board fails to meet minimum corporate governance standards;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Specific concerns about the individual or company, such as criminal wrongdoing or breach of fiduciary
responsibilities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Outside statutory auditor's attendance at less than 75% of the board and statutory auditor meetings without
a disclosed valid excuse; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unless there are other considerations which may include sanctions from government or authority, violations of
laws and regulations, or other issues related to improper business practice, failure to replace management, or egregious actions related to service on other boards.

**3. Compensation** 

**Director Compensation** 

Generally vote FOR proposals to award cash fees to non-executive directors unless the amounts are excessive relative to other companies in the country or industry.

Vote non-executive director compensation proposals that include both cash and share-based components on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

Vote proposals that bundle compensation for both non-executive and executive directors into a single resolution on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to introduce retirement bonuses for outside directors and/or outside statutory auditors, unless the amounts are disclosed and are not excessive relative to other companies in the country or industry.

**Director, Officer, and Auditor Indemnification and Liability Provisions** 

Vote proposals seeking indemnification and liability protection for directors and statutory auditors on a CASE-BY- CASE basis.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to indemnify auditors.

------

**4. Shareholder Rights and Defenses** 

**Antitakeover Mechanisms** 

Generally vote AGAINST all antitakeover proposals, unless certain conditions are met to ensure the proposal is intended to enhance shareholder value, including consideration of the company's governance structure, the anti- takeover defense duration, the trigger mechanism and governance, and the intended purpose of the antitakeover defense.

**5. Strategic Transactions and Capital Structures** 

**Reorganizations/Restructurings** 

Vote reorganizations and restructurings on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Mergers and Acquisitions** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on mergers and acquisitions, and third-party share issuance requests, taking into account the following based on publicly available information:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Valuation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Market reaction;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Strategic rationale;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Management's track record of successful integration of historical acquisitions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Presence of conflicts of interest; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Governance profile of the combined company.

**Dual Class Structures** 

Generally vote FOR resolutions that seek to maintain or convert to a one-share, one-vote capital structure.

Generally vote AGAINST requests for the creation or continuation of dual-class capital structures or the creation of new or additional super voting shares.

**Increases in Authorized Capital** 

Generally vote FOR non-specific proposals to increase authorized capital up to 100% over the current authorization unless the increase would leave the company with less than 30% of its new authorization outstanding. The increase should also not be intended as a takeover defense.

Generally vote FOR specific proposals to increase authorized capital to any amount, unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The specific purpose of the increase (such as a share-based acquisition or merger) does not meet guidelines for
the purpose being proposed.

Generally vote AGAINST proposals to adopt unlimited capital authorizations.

**Reduction of Capital** 

Generally vote FOR proposals to reduce capital for routine accounting purposes unless the terms are unfavorable to shareholders.

Vote proposals to reduce capital in connection with corporate restructuring on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.

**Preferred Stock** 

Vote CASE-BY-CASE on any requests to issue or modify preferred shares or other share classes

**Share Repurchase Plans** 

We will generally vote FOR share repurchase programs taking into account whether:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The share repurchase program can be used as a takeover defense;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is clear evidence of historical abuse;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• There is no safeguard in the share repurchase program against selective buybacks;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Pricing provisions and safeguards in the share repurchase program are deemed to be unreasonable in light of
market practice.

**6. Other Management and Shareholder Proposals** 

**Overall Approach** 

Management and shareholder proposals considered under this category could include, among others, requests that a company:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Publish a report or additional information related to the company's business and impact on stakeholders;

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Disclose policies related to specific business practices and/or services;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Conduct third party audits, reports or studies related to the company's business practices, services and/or
impact on stakeholders

When evaluating management and shareholder proposals, the following factors are generally considered:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the subject of the proposal is considered to be material to the company's business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The company's current level of publicly available disclosure, including if the company already discloses
similar information through existing reports or policies;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Ift the company has implemented or formally committed to the implementation of a reporting program based on a
recognized industry group standards or recommendations, such as the International Sustainability Standards Board's Sustainability Accounting Standards, the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board's (SASB) standards, the European
Sustainability Reporting Standards, the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosure's (TCFD) recommendations, or a similar standard;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the information requested concerns business issues that relate to a meaningful percentage of the
company's business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The degree to which the company's stated position on the issues raised in the proposal could affect its
reputation or sales, or leave it vulnerable to a boycott or selective purchasing;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has already responded in some appropriate manner to the request embodied in the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• What other companies in the relevant industry have done in response to the issue addressed in the proposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the proposal itself is well framed and the cost of preparing the report and/or the implementation is
reasonable;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the subject of the proposal is best left to the discretion of the board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the proposal is legally binding for the board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether the company has material fines or violations in the area and if so, if appropriate actions have already
been taken to remedy going forward; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Whether providing this information would reveal proprietary or confidential information that would place the
company at a competitive disadvantage.

------

**PART C: OTHER INFORMATION** 

**Item 28. Exhibits** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| (a) | (1) | [Certificate of Trust of the Registrant dated December 16, 2009 (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed May 4, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515169270/d837615dex99a1.htm) |
|  | (2) | [Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated September 20, 2022 (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 466 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed September 30, 2022)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312522255448/d379801dex99a2.htm) |
|  | (3) | [Form of Amended Schedule A dated June 18, 2025 to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated September 20, 2022 (filed herewith)](d941167dex99a3.htm) |
| (b) | [Amended and Restated By-laws dated July 22, 2021 (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 369 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed July 26, 2021)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312521224388/d176692dex99b.htm) | [Amended and Restated By-laws dated July 22, 2021 (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 369 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed July 26, 2021)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312521224388/d176692dex99b.htm) |
| (c) | Not applicable. | Not applicable. |
| (d) | (1) | [Management Agreement between Registrant and Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. (with respect to ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF) (incorporated by reference from Pre- Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed September 11, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515318140/d837615dex99d.htm) |
|  | (2) | [Form of Management Agreement between Registrant and Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. (with respect to ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Europe Equity ETF, ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF, ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Japan Equity ETF, ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF and ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Small Cap Equity ETF) (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 10 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed May 25, 2016)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312516602261/d195912dex99d2.htm) |
|  | (3) | [Form of Amended Annex A to the Management Agreement between Registrant and Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. (with respect to all series of Registrant except ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF) (filed herewith)](d941167dex99d3.htm) |
| (e) | (1) | [Distribution Agreement dated March 26, 2015 between Registrant and ALPS Distributors, Inc. (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed August 7, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515282875/d837615dex99e.htm) |
|  | (2) | [Distribution Agreement dated April 16, 2018 between Registrant and ALPS Distributors, Inc. (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 126 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed August 27, 2018)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312518258822/d570991dex99e1.htm) |
|  | (3) | [Form of Amendment to Distribution Agreement between Registrant and ALPS Distributors, Inc. (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 126 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed August 27, 2018)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312518258822/d570991dex99e2.htm) |
| (f) | Not applicable. | Not applicable. |
| (g) | (1) | [Custody Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 279 to Goldman Sachs Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 33-17619, filed April 28, 2011)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/822977/000095012311041091/b88801exv99wgw43.htm) |
|  | (2) | [Letter Amendment to the Custodian Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed August 7, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515282875/d837615dex99g2.htm) |

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(3) [Letter Amendment dated October 20, 2015 to the Custodian Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 518 to Goldman Sachs Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 33-17619, filed January 15, 2016)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/822977/000119312516430638/d222601dex99g67.htm)

(4) [Amendment dated January 6, 2016 to the Custodian Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 523 to Goldman Sachs Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 33-17619, filed January 29, 2016)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/822977/000119312516444378/d52911dex99g68.htm)

(5) [Amendment dated March 1, 2016 to the Custodian Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (Goldman Sachs Financial Square Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund and Goldman Sachs Investor Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund) (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 559 to Goldman Sachs Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 33-17619, filed May 20, 2016)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/822977/000119312516597635/d161702dex99g69.htm)

(6) [Amendment dated June 13, 2016 to the Custodian Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF) (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 93 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 22, 2017)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312517377613/d450037dex99g6.htm)

(7) [Amendment dated August 29, 2016 to the Custodian Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (Goldman Sachs Treasury Access 0-1 Year ETF) (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 93 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 22, 2017)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312517377613/d450037dex99g7.htm)

(8) [Amendment dated April 5, 2017 to the Custodian Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets Local Currency Bond ETF, Goldman Sachs Access High Yield Corporate Bond ETF and Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF) (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 93 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 22, 2017)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312517377613/d450037dex99g8.htm)

(9) [Amendment dated May 10, 2017 to the Custodian Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (Goldman Sachs Equal Weight U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF) (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 93 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 22, 2017)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312517377613/d450037dex99g9.htm)

(10) [Amendment dated December 10, 2018 to the Custody Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 202 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed May 10, 2019)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312519144100/d493672dex99g10.htm)

(11) [Amendment dated July 12, 2019 to the Custody Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (certain equity funds) (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 778 to the Goldman Sachs Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 33-17619, filed December 20, 2019)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/822977/000119312519321151/d822947dex99g71.htm)

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | (12) | [Amendment dated December 13, 2019 to the Custody Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 281 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed July 6, 2020)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312520187791/d755444dex99g12.htm) |
|  | (13) | [Letter Amendment dated March 10, 2022 to the Custody Agreement between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC, and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 498 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 27, 2022)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312522312645/d384303dex99g13.htm) |
|  | (14) | [Amendment dated October 12, 2023 to the Custody Agreement between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC, and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 618 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 27, 2023)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312523304142/d556196dex99g14.htm) |
|  | (15) | [Amendment dated June 9, 2025 to the Custody Agreement between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC, and The Bank of New York Mellon (filed herewith)](d941167dex99g15.htm) |
| (h) | (1) | [Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed September 11, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515318140/d837615dex99h1.htm) |
|  | (2) | [Amendment dated December 10, 2018 to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 202 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed May 10, 2019)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312519144100/d493672dex99h2.htm) |
|  | (3) | [Amendment dated December 13, 2019 to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 281 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed July 6, 2020)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312520187791/d755444dex99h3.htm) |
|  | (4) | [Form of Authorized Participant Agreement (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed August 7, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515282875/d837615dex99h2.htm) |
|  | (5) | [Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 279 to the Goldman Sachs Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 33-17619, filed April 28, 2011)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/822977/000095012311041091/b88801exv99whw27.htm) |
|  | (6) | [Letter Amendment to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed August 7, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515282875/d837615dex99h4.htm) |
|  | (7) | [License Agreement between the Trust and Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed September 11, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515318140/d837615dex99h5.htm) |

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------

(8) [Letter Amendment dated October 20, 2015 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed February 8, 2016)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312516453980/d55076dex99h6.htm)

(9) [Amendment dated January 6, 2016 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 523 to Goldman Sachs Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 33-17619, filed January 29, 2016)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/822977/000119312516444378/d52911dex99h42.htm)

(10) [Amendment dated March 1, 2016 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (Goldman Sachs Financial Square Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund and Goldman Sachs Investor Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund) (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 559 to Goldman Sachs Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 33-17619, filed May 20, 2016)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/822977/000119312516597635/d161702dex99h44.htm)

(11) [Amendment dated December 10, 2018 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 202 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed May 10, 2019)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312519144100/d493672dex99h10.htm)

(12) [Amendment dated July 12, 2019 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon (certain equity funds) (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 778 to the Goldman Sachs Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 33-17619, filed December 20, 2019)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312519144100/d493672dex99h10.htm)

(13) [Amendment dated December 13, 2019 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 28, 2016 between Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 281 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed July 6, 2020)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312520187791/d755444dex99h13.htm)

(14) [Expense Limitation Agreement between Registrant and Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. relating to Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 72 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed July 6, 2017)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312517223196/d282745dex99h9.htm)

(15) [Letter Amendment dated March 10, 2022 to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 498 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 27, 2022)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312522312645/d384303dex99h15.htm)

(16) [Letter Amendment dated March 17, 2022 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust II, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund and Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 498 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 27, 2022)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312522312645/d384303dex99h16.htm)

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | (17) | [Form of Fund of Funds Investment Agreement (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 498 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 27, 2022)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312522312645/d384303dex99h17.htm) |
|  | (18) | [Amendment dated October 12, 2023 to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 618 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 27, 2023)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312523304142/d556196dex99h19.htm) |
|  | (19) | [Amendment dated October 12, 2023 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund and Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 618 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 27, 2023)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312523304142/d556196dex99h18.htm) |
|  | (20) | [Amendment dated May 31, 2024 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund and Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC and The Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 672 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 26, 2024)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312524284998/d861631dex99h20.htm) |
|  | (21) | [Amendment dated June 9, 2025 to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II and The Bank of New York Mellon (filed herewith)](d941167dex99h21.htm) |
|  | (22) | [Amendment dated June 9, 2025 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund and Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC and The Bank of New York Mellon (filed herewith)](d941167dex99h22.htm) |
| (i) | Opinion and Consent of Dechert LLP (to be filed by amendment) | Opinion and Consent of Dechert LLP (to be filed by amendment) |
| (j) | Not applicable. | Not applicable. |
| (k) | Not applicable. | Not applicable. |
| (l) | [Subscription Letter related to Initial Capital provided by The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed August 7, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515282875/d837615dex99l.htm) | [Subscription Letter related to Initial Capital provided by The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed August 7, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515282875/d837615dex99l.htm) |
| (m) | [Distribution and Service Plan (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed September 11, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515318140/d837615dex99m.htm) | [Distribution and Service Plan (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed September 11, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515318140/d837615dex99m.htm) |
| (n) | Not applicable. | Not applicable. |
| (p) | (1) | [Code of Ethics – Goldman Sachs ETF Trust (incorporated by reference from Post-Effective Amendment No. 310 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed December 28, 2020)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312520327816/d906937dex99p1.htm) |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | (2) | [Code of Ethics – Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. (incorporated by reference from Post- Effective Amendment No. 533 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed April 28, 2023)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312523127156/d491200dex99p2.htm) |
|  | (3) | [Code of Ethics – ALPS Distributors, Inc. (incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Trust's registration statement, SEC File No. 333-200933, filed September 11, 2015)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515318140/d837615dex99p3.htm) |
| (q) | [Powers of Attorney for James A. McNamara, Joseph F. DiMaria, Gregory G. Weaver, Cheryl K. Beebe, Dwight L. Bush, Kathryn A. Cassidy, John G. Chou, Joaquin Delgado, Eileen H. Dowling, Lawrence Hughes, John F. Killian, Steven D. Krichmar, Michael Latham and Lawrence W. Stranghoener (filed herewith)](d941167dex99q.htm) | [Powers of Attorney for James A. McNamara, Joseph F. DiMaria, Gregory G. Weaver, Cheryl K. Beebe, Dwight L. Bush, Kathryn A. Cassidy, John G. Chou, Joaquin Delgado, Eileen H. Dowling, Lawrence Hughes, John F. Killian, Steven D. Krichmar, Michael Latham and Lawrence W. Stranghoener (filed herewith)](d941167dex99q.htm) |

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**Item 29. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with the Fund** 

Not applicable.

**Item 30. Indemnification** 

Article VII, Section 7.5 of the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of the Registrant, a Delaware statutory trust, provides for indemnification of the Trustees, officers and employees of the Registrant by the Registrant, subject to certain limitations. [The Declaration of Trust is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312515169270/d837615dex99a2.htm).

Section 6 of the Distribution Agreement between the Registrant and Distributor dated March 26, 2015, provides that the Registrant will indemnify Distributor against certain liabilities, subject to certain conditions. A copy of the Distribution Agreement is incorporated by reference as [Exhibit (e)](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1479026/000119312518258822/d570991dex99e1.htm), to the Registrant's Registration Statement.

Fund and trustees and officers liability policies purchased jointly by the Registrant and other registered investment companies for which the trustees and officers serve as such insure such persons and their respective trustees, partners, officers and employees, subject to the policies' coverage limits and exclusions and varying deductibles, against loss resulting from claims by reason of any act, error, omission, misstatement, misleading statement, neglect or breach of duty.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, the Registrant has been informed that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is therefore unenforceable.

**Item 31. Business and Other Connections of Investment Adviser** 

Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. ("GSAM") is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. and serves as investment adviser to the Registrant. GSAM is engaged in the investment advisory business. GSAM is part of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., a public company that is a bank holding company, financial holding company and a world-wide, full-service financial services organization. GSAM Holdings LLC is the general partner and principal owner of GSAM. Information about the officers and partners of GSAM is included in their Form ADV filed with the Commission (registration number 801-37591) and is incorporated herein by reference.

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**Item 32. Principal Underwriters** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) ALPS Distributors, Inc. acts as the distributor for the Registrant and the following investment companies: 1290 Funds, 1WS Credit Income Fund, abrdn ETFs, Accordant ODCE Index Fund, Alpha Alternative Assets Fund, ALPS Series Trust, Alternative Credit Income Fund, Apollo Diversified Credit Fund, Apollo Diversified Real Estate Fund, AQR Funds, Axonic Alternative Income Fund, Axonic Funds, BBH Trust, Bluerock High Income Institutional Credit Fund, Bluerock Total Income + Real Estate Fund, Bridge Builder Trust, Cambria ETF Trust, Centre Funds, CION Ares Diversified Credit Fund, Columbia ETF Trust, Columbia ETF Trust I, Columbia ETF Trust II, CRM Mutual Fund Trust, DBX ETF Trust, ETF Series Solutions (Vident Series), Financial Investors Trust, Firsthand Funds, Flat Rock Core Income Fund, Flat Rock Opportunity Fund, FS Credit Income Fund, FS Energy Total Return Fund, FS Multi-Alternative Income Fund, FS Series Trust, FS MVP Private Markets Fund, Goehring & Rozencwajg Investment Funds, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Graniteshares ETF Trust, Hartford Funds Exchange-Traded Trust, Heartland Group, Inc., IndexIQ Active ETF Trust, IndexIQ ETF Trust, Investment Managers Series Trust II (AXS-Advised Funds), Janus Detroit Street Trust, Lattice Strategies Trust, Litman Gregory Funds Trust, Manager Directed Portfolios (Spyglass Growth Fund), Meridian Fund, Inc., Natixis ETF Trust, Natixis ETF Trust II, Opportunistic Credit Interval Fund, PRIMECAP Odyssey Funds, Principal Exchange-Traded Funds, RiverNorth Funds, RiverNorth Opportunities Fund, Inc., RiverNorth/DoubleLine Strategic Opportunity Fund, Inc., RiverNorth Opportunistic Municipal Income Fund, Inc., RiverNorth Managed Duration Municipal Income Fund, Inc., RiverNorth Flexible Municipal Income Fund, Inc., RiverNorth Capital and Income Fund, Inc., RiverNorth Flexible Municipal Income Fund II, Inc., RiverNorth Managed Duration Municipal Income Fund II, Inc., SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust, SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust, SPDR S&P MidCap 400 ETF Trust, Sprott Funds Trust, Stone Ridge Trust, Stone Ridge Trust II, Stone Ridge Trust IV, Stone Ridge Trust V, Stone Ridge Trust VIII, The Arbitrage Funds, Themes ETF Trust, Thrivent ETF Trust, USCF ETF Trust, Valkyrie ETF Trust II, Wasatch Funds, WesMark Funds, Wilmington Funds, X-Square Balanced Fund and X-Square Series Trust.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) To the best of Registrant's knowledge, the directors and executive officers of ALPS Distributors, Inc., are as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name\*** | **Position with Underwriter** | **Positions with Fund** |
| Stephen J. Kyllo | President, Chief Operating Officer, Director, Chief Compliance Officer | None |
| Brian Schell \*\* | Vice President and Treasurer | None |
| Eric Parsons | Vice President, Controller and Assistant Treasurer | None |
| Jason White\*\*\* | Secretary | None |
| Richard C. Noyes | Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Assistant Secretary | None |
| Eric Theroff^ | Assistant Secretary | None |
| Adam Girard^^ | Tax Officer | None |
| Liza Price | Vice President, Managing Counsel | None |
| Jed Stahl | Vice President, Managing Counsel | None |
| Terence Digan | Vice President | None |
| James Stegall | Vice President | None |

---

\* Except as otherwise noted, the principal business address for each of the above directors and executive officers is 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, Colorado 80203.

\*\* The principal business address for Mr. Schell is 100 South Wacker Drive, 19th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606.

\*\*\* The principal business address for Mr. White is 4 Times Square, New York, NY 10036.

^ The principal business address for Mr. Theroff is 1055 Broadway Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64105.

^^ The principal business address for Mr. Girard is 80 Lamberton Road, Windsor, CT 06095.

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Not applicable.

**Item 33. Location of Accounts and Records** 

The Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, Amended and Restated By-laws and minute books of the Registrant and certain investment adviser records will be in the physical possession of GSAM, 200 West Street, New York, New York 10282. All other accounts, books and other documents required to be maintained under Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the rules promulgated thereunder will be in the physical possession of The Bank of New York Mellon, 240 Greenwich Street, New York, New York 10286.

**Item 34. Management Services** 

Not applicable.

**Item 35. Undertakings** 

Not applicable.

------

**SIGNATURES** 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant certifies that it has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 692 to its Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City and State of New York on the 20<sup>th</sup> day of June, 2025.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST**<br> (A Delaware statutory trust) | **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST**<br> (A Delaware statutory trust) |
| By: | /s/ Robert Griffith |
|  | Robert Griffith<br> Secretary |

---

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Post-Effective Amendment to said Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and on the date indicated.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name** | **Title** | **Date** |
| <sup>1</sup>James A. McNamara | President (Chief Executive Officer) and Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| James A. McNamara |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Joseph F. DiMaria | Treasurer, Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer | June 20, 2025 |
| Joseph F. DiMaria |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Gregory G. Weaver | Chair and Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Gregory G. Weaver |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Cheryl K. Beebe | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Cheryl K. Beebe |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Dwight L. Bush | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Dwight L. Bush |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Kathryn A. Cassidy | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Kathryn A. Cassidy |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>John G. Chou | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| John G. Chou |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Joaquin Delgado | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Joaquin Delgado |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Eileen H. Dowling | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Eileen H. Dowling |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Lawrence Hughes | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Lawrence Hughes |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>John F. Killian | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| John F. Killian |  |  |

---

------

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| <sup>1</sup>Steven D. Krichmar | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Steven D. Krichmar |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Michael Latham | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Michael Latham |  |  |
| <sup>1</sup>Lawrence W. Stranghoener | Trustee | June 20, 2025 |
| Lawrence W. Stranghoener |  |  |

---

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| By: | /s/ Robert Griffith |
| Robert Griffith, | Robert Griffith, |
| Attorney-In-Fact | Attorney-In-Fact |

---

<sup>1</sup> Pursuant to powers of attorney filed herewith.

------

**CERTIFICATE** 

The undersigned Secretary for Goldman Sachs ETF Trust (the "Trust") hereby certifies that the Board of Trustees of the Trust duly adopted the following resolution at a meeting of the Board held on June 18, 2025.

**RESOLVED,** that the Trustees and Officers of the Trusts who may be required to sign the Trusts' Registration Statements or any amendments thereto be, and each hereby is, authorized to execute a power of attorney appointing James A. McNamara, Caroline L. Kraus, Joseph F. DiMaria and Robert Griffith jointly and severally, their attorneys-in-fact, until the earlier of his or her resignation or removal as an officer of the Trusts, each with power of substitution, for said Trustees and Officers in any and all capacities to sign the Registration Statements under the Securities Act and the 1940 Act of the Trusts and any and all amendments to such Registration Statements, and to file the same, with exhibits thereto, if any, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC and with other federal, state, foreign and quasi-governmental agencies and such other instruments related to compliance with certain of the federal securities laws and other applicable federal, state, foreign and quasi-government filings, the Trustees and Officers hereby ratifying and confirming all that each of said attorneys-in-fact, or his or her substitute or substitutes, may do or cause to be done by virtue thereof.

Dated: June 20, 2025

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Robert Griffith |
| Robert Griffith, |
| Secretary |

---

------

**EXHIBIT INDEX** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
|  (a)(3) | [Form of Amended Schedule A dated June 18, 2025 to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated September 20, 2022](d941167dex99a3.htm) |
|  (d)(3) | [Form of Amended Annex A to the Management Agreement between Registrant and Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. (with respect to all series of Registrant except ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF)](d941167dex99d3.htm) |
|  (g)(15) | [Amendment dated June 9, 2025 to the Custody Agreement between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC and The Bank of New York Mellon](d941167dex99g15.htm) |
|  (h)(21) | [Amendment dated June 9, 2025 to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II and The Bank of New York Mellon](d941167dex99h21.htm) |
|  (h)(22) | [Amendment dated June 9, 2025 to the Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Registrant, Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund and Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC and The Bank of New York Mellon](d941167dex99h22.htm) |
| (q) | [Powers of Attorney for James A. McNamara, Joseph F. DiMaria, Gregory G. Weaver, Cheryl K. Beebe, Dwight L. Bush, Kathryn A. Cassidy, John G. Chou, Joaquin Delgado, Eileen H. Dowling, Lawrence Hughes, John F. Killian, Steven D. Krichmar, Michael Latham and Lawrence W. Stranghoener](d941167dex99q.htm) |

---

## Ex-99.(A)(3)

**EX-99.(a)(3)** 

**<u>Form of Schedule A</u>**

**Goldman Sachs ETF Trust** 

**June 18, 2025** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Series of Shares | Date Established |
| Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets USD Bond ETF | March 14, 2018 |
| Goldman Sachs Access High Yield Corporate Bond ETF | March 15, 2017 |
| Goldman Sachs Access Inflation Protected USD Bond ETF | March 14, 2018 |
| Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 1-5 Year Bond ETF | June 4, 2019 |
| Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 10+ Year Bond ETF | June 4, 2019 |
| Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF | March 15, 2017 |
| Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Floating Rate ETF | September 20, 2018 |
| Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Preferred Stock & Hybrid Securities ETF | June 7, 2023 |
| Goldman Sachs Access Treasury 0-1 Year ETF | April 12, 2016 |
| Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF | June 21, 2019 |
| Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Treasury Bond ETF | June 4, 2019 |
| Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF | April 16, 2015 |
| Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Low Vol Plus Equity ETF | July 22, 2022 |
| Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Europe Equity ETF | April 16, 2015 |
| Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF | April 16, 2015 |
| Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Japan Equity ETF | April 16, 2015 |
| Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF | April 16, 2015 |
| Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Small Cap Equity ETF | April 16, 2015 |
| Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> World Low Vol Plus Equity ETF | November 3, 2021 |
| Goldman Sachs Community Municipal Bond ETF | June 10, 2022 |
| Goldman Sachs Core Bond ETF | February 12, 2025 |
| Goldman Sachs Corporate Bond ETF | February 12, 2025 |
| Goldman Sachs Dynamic California Municipal Income ETF | April 17, 2024 |
| Goldman Sachs Dynamic New York Municipal Income ETF | April 17, 2024 |
| Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | June 18, 2025 |
| Goldman Sachs Equal Weight U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF | March 15, 2017 |
| Goldman Sachs Future Consumer Equity ETF | March 17, 2021 |
| Goldman Sachs Future Planet Equity ETF | January 21, 2021 |
| Goldman Sachs Future Health Care Equity ETF | March 17, 2021 |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF | December 2, 2020 |
| Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF | June 18, 2025 |
| Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF | July 23, 2015 |
| Goldman Sachs India Equity ETF | September 18, 2024 |
| Goldman Sachs Innovate Equity ETF | February 19, 2020 |
| Goldman Sachs JUST U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF | December 8, 2017 |
| Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF | June 4, 2019 |
| Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF | June 4, 2019 |
| Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> International Small Cap Equity ETF | June 4, 2019 |
| Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Russell 1000 Growth ETF | July 20, 2023 |
| Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Russell 1000 Value ETF | July 20, 2023 |
| Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Equity ETF | June 4, 2019 |
| Goldman Sachs Municipal Income ETF | April 17, 2024 |
| Goldman Sachs Nasdaq-100 Premium Income ETF | April 27, 2023 |
| Goldman Sachs Small Cap Core Equity ETF | June 7, 2023 |
| Goldman Sachs S&P 500 Premium Income ETF | April 27, 2023 |
| Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF | June 18, 2025 |
| Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Municipal Income ETF | April 17, 2024 |
| Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF | September 20, 2018 |
| Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 1 ETF | July 20, 2023 |
| Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 2 ETF | July 20, 2023 |
| Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 3 ETF | July 20, 2023 |
| Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF | June 18, 2025 |

---

## Ex-99.(D)(3)

**EX-99.(d)(3)** 

**FORM OF AMENDED ANNEX A** 

**Goldman Sachs Asset Management L.P.** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Fund | Fee (Annual Rate) | Initial Date |
|  Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets Local Currency Bond ETF | 0.45% | May 17, 2017 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets USD Bond ETF | 0.30% | June 6, 2018 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access High Yield Corporate Bond ETF | 0.15% | May 17, 2017 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access Inflation Protected USD Bond ETF | 0.12% | June 6, 2018 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 1-5 Year Bond ETF | 0.08% | September 18, 2019 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 10+ Year Bond ETF | 0.08% | September 18, 2019 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF | 0.08% | May 17, 2017 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access Treasury 0-1 Year ETF | 0.14% | July 19, 2016 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF | 0.08% | September 18, 2019 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Preferred Stock and Hybrid Securities ETF | 0.45% | February 14, 2024 |
|  Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Treasury Bond ETF | 0.07% | September 18, 2019 |
|  Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Low Vol Plus Equity ETF | 0.45% | September 20, 2022 |
|  Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Europe Equity ETF | 0.25% | April 16, 2015 |
|  Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF | 0.25% | April 16, 2015 |
|  Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Japan Equity ETF | 0.25% | April 16, 2015 |
|  Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF | 0.09% | April 16, 2015 |
|  Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Low Vol Plus Equity ETF | 0.15% | December 2, 2022 |
|  Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Small Cap Equity ETF | 0.20% | April 16, 2015 |
|  Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> World Low Vol Plus Equity ETF | 0.25% | December 1, 2021 |
|  Goldman Sachs Community Municipal Bond ETF | 0.08% | September 20, 2022 |
|  Goldman Sachs Core Bond ETF | 0.25% | April 16, 2025 |
|  Goldman Sachs Corporate Bond ETF | 0.29% | April 16, 2025 |
|  Goldman Sachs Equal Weight U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF | 0.09% | May 17, 2017 |
|  Goldman Sachs Dynamic California Municipal Income ETF | 0.35% | June 12, 2024 |
|  Goldman Sachs Dynamic New York Municipal Income ETF | 0.35% | June 12, 2024 |
|  Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity ETF | 0.30% | June 18, 2025 |
|  Goldman Sachs Future Consumer Equity ETF | 0.75% | June 9, 2021 |
|  Goldman Sachs Future Health Care Equity ETF | 0.75% | June 9, 2021 |
|  Goldman Sachs Future Planet Equity ETF | 0.75% | March 17, 2021 |
|  Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF | 0.75% | March 17, 2021 |
|  Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities ETF | 0.45% | June 18, 2025 |
|  Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF | 0.45% | April 12, 2016 |
|  Goldman Sachs India Equity ETF | 0.75% | September 18, 2024 |
|  Goldman Sachs Innovate Equity ETF | 0.50% | July 27, 2020 |
|  Goldman Sachs JUST U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF | 0.20% | March 14, 2018 |
|  Goldman Sachs MarketBeta Emerging Markets Equity ETF | 0.45% | September 18, 2019 |
|  Goldman Sachs MarketBeta International Equity ETF | 0.25% | September 18, 2019 |
|  Goldman Sachs MarketBeta International Small Cap Equity ETF | 0.30% | September 18, 2019 |
|  Goldman Sachs MarketBeta Russell 1000 Growth Equity ETF | 0.12% | July 20, 2023 |
|  Goldman Sachs MarketBeta Russell 1000 Value Equity ETF | 0.12% | July 20, 2023 |
|  Goldman Sachs MarketBeta U.S. Equity ETF | 0.09% | September 18, 2019 |
|  Goldman Sachs Municipal Income ETF | 0.18% | June 12, 2024 |
|  Goldman Sachs Nasdaq-100 Premium Income ETF | 0.35% | April 27, 2023 |
|  Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF | 0.20% | November 28, 2018 |
|  Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Municipal Income ETF | 0.16% | June 12, 2024 |
|  Goldman Sachs Small Cap Equity ETF | 0.80% | July 14, 2023 |
|  Goldman Sachs S&P 500 Premium Income ETF | 0.35% | April 27, 2023 |
|  Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities ETF | 0.65% | April 18, 2025 |
|  Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 1 ETF | 0.50% | June 12, 2024 |
|  Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 2 ETF | 0.50% | June 12, 2024 |
|  Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 3 ETF | 0.50% | June 12, 2024 |
|  Goldman Sachs Value Opportunities ETF | 0.45% | June 18, 2025 |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** | **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** |
| By: |  |
| Name: | James McNamara |
| Title: | President |
| **GOLDMAN SACHS ASSET MANAGEMENT, L.P.** | **GOLDMAN SACHS ASSET MANAGEMENT, L.P.** |
| By: |  |
| Name: |  |
| Title: |  |
| Dated: |  |

---

## Ex-99.(G)(15)

**EX-99.(g)(15)** 

EXECUTION

**AMENDMENT** 

**TO** 

**CUSTODY AGREEMENT** 

This Amendment ("Amendment") is made as of June 9, 2025 (the "Effective Date"), by and between each of Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II and GS REFT FI TRS Ltd., separately and not jointly (collectively, the "Funds"), and The Bank of New York Mellon ("BNY").

**BACKGROUND:** 

A. BNY and certain of the Funds are parties to a Custody Agreement dated as of April 5, 2011 (as amended to
date, the "Agreement"), relating to BNY's provision of custody services to the Funds and each Series or subsidiary of a Fund, as applicable, listed on Schedule I to the Agreement, as such Schedule I may be amended from time to time.

B. The parties desire to amend the Agreement as set forth herein.

**TERMS:** 

The parties hereby agree that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Schedule I to the Agreement is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with Schedule I attached hereto.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. <u>Miscellaneous.</u> 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Amendment shall have the meaning given to such terms in the
Agreement. In the event of a conflict between the terms of this Amendment and the Agreement, this Amendment shall control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) As hereby amended and supplemented, the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The Agreement, as amended hereby, constitutes the complete understanding and agreement of the parties with
respect to the subject matter thereof and supersedes all prior communications with respect thereto.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) The parties expressly agree that this Amendment may be executed in one or more counterparts and expressly agree
that such execution may occur by manual signature on a physically delivered copy of this Amendment, by a manual signature on a copy of this Amendment transmitted by facsimile transmission, by a manual signature on a copy of this Amendment
transmitted as an imaged document attached to an email, or by "Electronic Signature", which is hereby defined to mean inserting an image,

------

EXECUTION

representation or symbol of a signature into an electronic copy of this Amendment by electronic, digital or other technological methods. Each counterpart executed in accordance with the foregoing shall be deemed an original, with all such counterparts together constituting one and the same instrument. The exchange of executed counterparts of this Amendment or of executed signature pages to counterparts of this Amendment, in either case by facsimile transmission or as an imaged document attached to an email transmission, shall constitute effective execution and delivery of this Amendment and may be used for all purposes in lieu of a manually executed and physically delivered copy of this Amendment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) This Amendment shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to its principles of
conflicts of laws.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) For clarity, pursuant to the amendment to the Agreement dated August 8, 2023, GS REIT Operating
Partnership L.P. and GS REIT FI TRS Ltd. are not required to execute this Amendment.

------

EXECUTION

**IN WITNESS WHEREOF**, each of the parties hereto has caused this Amendment to be executed as of the Effective Date by its duly authorized representative indicated below. An authorized representative, if executing this Amendment by Electronic Signature, affirms authorization to execute this Amendment by Electronic Signature and that the Electronic Signature represents an intent to enter into this Amendment and an agreement with its terms.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **GOLDMAN SACHS TRUST** | **GOLDMAN SACHS TRUST** |
| On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule I attached hereto | On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule I attached hereto |
| By: | /s/ Chris Bradford |
| Name: | Chris Bradford |
| Title: | Vice President |
| **GOLDMAN SACHS VARIABLE INSURANCE TRUST** | **GOLDMAN SACHS VARIABLE INSURANCE TRUST** |
| On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule I attached hereto | On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule I attached hereto |
| By: | /s/ Chris Bradford |
| Name: | Chris Bradford |
| Title: | Vice President |
| **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** | **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** |
| On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule I attached hereto | On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule I attached hereto |
| By: | /s/ Chris Bradford |
| Name: | Chris Bradford |
| Title: | Vice President |
| **THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON** | **THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON** |
| By: | /s/ Michael Gronsky |
| Name: | Michael Gronsky |
| Title: | Senior Vice President Date: June 3, 2025 |

---

------

EXECUTION

**SCHEDULE I** 

(Amended and Restated as of June 9, 2025)

**CAYMAN COMMODITY-MFS, LLC**<sup>1</sup>

**GOLDMAN SACHS TRUST** 

Goldman Sachs Large Cap Equity Fund<sup>1</sup> <sup>2</sup>

Goldman Sachs China Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Dynamic Municipal Income Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Ex. China Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity Fund <sup>8</sup>

Goldman Sachs Enhanced Dividend Global Equity Portfolio<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Equity Income Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs ESG Emerging Markets Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Federal Instruments Fund

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Government Fund

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Treasury Instruments Fund

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Treasury Obligations Fund

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Treasury Solutions Fund

Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Global Infrastructure Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Growth Fund<sup>1</sup> 3

Goldman Sachs High Yield Municipal Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs International Equity ESG Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs International Equity Income Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs International Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs International Tax-Managed Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Investor Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Investor Tax-Exempt California Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Investor Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Investor Tax-Exempt New York Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Large Cap Growth Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Managed Futures Strategy Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Municipal Income Completion Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs Short Duration Tax-Free Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs Real Estate Securities Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Growth Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

------

EXECUTION

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small/Mid Cap Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small/Mid Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Tax-Advantaged Global Equity Portfolio<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs U.S. Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs U.S. Tax-Managed Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

**GOLDMAN SACHS VARIABLE INSURANCE TRUST** 

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs Core Fixed Income Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs Trend Driven Allocation Fund <sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs Government Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs International Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs Small Cap Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust—Goldman Sachs U.S. Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

**GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** 

Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets Local Currency Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets USD Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access High Yield Corporate Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access Inflation Protected USD Bond ETF

Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access Treasury 0-1 Year ETF

Goldman Sachs Access China Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 1-5 Year Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 10+ Year Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Total Bond Market ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Treasury Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF<sup>+9</sup>

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Europe Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Japan Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Low Vol Plus Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Small Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Equal Weight U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Consumer Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Health Care Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Planet Equity ETF

------

EXECUTION

Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF

Goldman Sachs Innovate Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs JUST U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> International Small Cap Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> World Low Vol Plus Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Access Municipal Bond ETF<sup>11</sup>

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Paris-Aligned Climate Emerging Markets Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Paris Aligned Climate International Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Paris-Aligned Climate High Yield Corporate Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Small Cap Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Low Vol Plus Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Treasury 0-6 Month ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Defensive Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Nasdaq-100 Premium Income ETF<sup>5</sup>

Goldman Sachs S&P 500 Premium Income ETF<sup>6</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Equity ETF<sup>7</sup>

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Russell 1000 Value Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Russell 1000 Growth Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Preferred Stock and Hybrid Securities ETF

Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs Dynamic California Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs Dynamic New York Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 1 ETF

Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 2 ETF

Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 3 ETF

Goldman Sachs India Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Core Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Corporate Bond ETF\*

**GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST II** 

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. 1000 Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Total International Equity ETF

**GOLDMAN SACHS REAL ESTATE DIVERSIFIED INCOME FUND<sup>1</sup>** 

DIF Investments LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary<sup>1</sup>

DIF Investments II LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary<sup>1</sup>

DIF Investments III LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary<sup>1</sup>

**GS REIT OPERATING PARTNERSHIP L.P.**<sup>4</sup>

**GS REIT FI TRS LTD.**<sup>4</sup>

------

EXECUTION

**GS REFT FI TRS LTD.**<sup>4</sup>

\* The Fund has not yet commenced operations. Goldman Sachs Asset Management will provide notice to BNY to commence services upon the Fund's launch.

+ The service set forth in section (o) of Schedule IV will apply.

<sup>1</sup> BNY shall provide the services set forth in Schedules I and II to the Agreement except that BNY shall not provide, and the Fund shall not receive, the following services:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schedule I – item number 2 (Provide monthly and weekly, or as mutually agreed by the parties, portfolio
holdings information and other information required to be posted on the Fund's website pursuant to Rule 2a-7(c)(12) under the 1940 Act)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schedule II –

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section I, item 5 (Daily Yields) and item 6 (Prepare Money Market Fee Waiver Spreadsheet as requested by Fund
Controllers);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section II; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section III, item 11 (Monthly Money Market Fee Waiver Spreadsheet in agreed-upon format as requested by Fund
Controllers).

For clarity, Schedules III and IV to the Agreement do not apply

<sup>2</sup> Named has been changed from Goldman Sachs Large Cap Core Fund.

<sup>3</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund.

<sup>4</sup> BNY shall provide the services set forth in Schedules I and II to the Agreement except that BNY shall not provide, and the Fund shall not receive, the following services:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Expense Budgeting services as set forth in the amendment to the Agreement dated January 6, 2016

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Calculation and invoicing of variable expenses

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Calculation of net asset value per share

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schedule I –

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 1 (Subject to approval by the Fund Controllers team and legal counsel, coordinate the preparation,
filing, printing and dissemination of periodic reports and other information to the SEC and the Fund's shareholders, including annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders, Form N-CEN, Form N-CSR, Form N-PORT, and notices pursuant to Rule
24(f)-2);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 2 (Provide monthly and weekly, or as mutually agreed by the parties, portfolio holdings information
and other information required to be posted on the Fund's website pursuant to Rule 2a-7(c)(12) under the 1940 Act);

------

EXECUTION

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 3 (Prepare statistical reports for outside information services as mutually agreed by the parties);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 4 (Prepare reports to rating agencies, including Standard & Poors, Moody's and Fitch);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 5 (Attend shareholder and Board meetings as requested from time to time); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 7 (Provide wash sale reporting on a periodic basis)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schedule II –

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section I, item 3 (Statement of net asset value per share), item 5 (Daily yields), and item 6 (Prepare Money
Market Fee Waiver Spreadsheet as requested by Fund Controllers)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section II

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section III, item 4 (Subscriptions Journal), item 5 (Redemptions Journal), item 8 (Open Subscriptions/Redemption
Reports), item 10 (Broker Net Trades Reports), and item 11 (Monthly Money Market Fee Waiver Spreadsheet in agreed upon format as requested by Fund Controllers)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section V, item 5 (Capital stock sold) and item 6 (Capital stock redeemed)

For clarity, (1) Schedules III and IV to the Agreement do not apply and (2) services specifically related to investment companies registered under the 1940 Act do not apply.

<sup>5</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Nasdaq-100 Core Premium Income ETF

<sup>6</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs S&P 500 Core Premium Income ETF

<sup>7</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Small Cap Core Equity ETF

<sup>8</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Enhanced Core Equity Fund.

<sup>9</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Access Ultra Short Bond ETF

<sup>10</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs U.S. Equity ESG Fund

<sup>11</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Community Municipal Bond ETF

## Ex-99.(H)(21)

**EX-99.(h)(21)** 

EXECUTION

**AMENDMENT** 

**TO** 

**TRANSFER AGENCY AND SERVICES AGREEMENT** 

This Amendment ("Amendment") is made as of June 9, 2025 ("Effective Date"), by and between each of Goldman Sachs ETF Trust, and Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, separately and not jointly (each a "Trust" and collectively, the "Trusts"), and THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON (the "Bank").

**BACKGROUND:** 

A. The Bank and certain of the Trusts are parties to a Transfer Agency and Services Agreement dated as of
April 22, 2015, as amended to date (the "Agreement"), relating to the Bank's provision of services to the Trusts and each of its series listed on Schedule A to the Agreement, as such Schedule A may be amended from time to time
(each a "Fund").

B. The parties desire to amend the Agreement as set forth herein.

**TERMS:** 

The parties hereby agree that:

1. Schedule A to the Agreement is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with Schedule A attached hereto.

2. <u>Miscellaneous.</u> 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Capitalized terms not defined in this Amendment shall remain in full force and effect. In the event of a
conflict between the terms hereof and the Agreement, this Amendment shall control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) As hereby amended and supplemented, the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The Agreement, as amended hereby, constitutes the complete understanding and agreement of the parties with
respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior communications with respect thereto.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) The parties expressly agree that this Amendment may be executed in one or more counterparts and expressly agree
that such execution may occur by manual signature on a physically delivered copy of this Amendment, by a manual signature on a copy of this Amendment transmitted by facsimile transmission, by a manual signature on a copy of this Amendment
transmitted as an imaged document attached to an email, or by "Electronic Signature", which is hereby defined to mean inserting an image, representation or symbol of a signature into an electronic copy of this Amendment by electronic,
digital or other technological methods. Each counterpart executed in accordance with the foregoing shall be deemed an original, with all such counterparts together constituting one and the same instrument. The exchange of executed counterparts of
this Amendment or of executed signature pages to counterparts of this

------

Amendment, in either case by facsimile transmission or as an imaged document attached to an email transmission, shall constitute effective execution and delivery of this Amendment and may be used for all purposes in lieu of a manually executed and physically delivered copy of this Amendment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) This Amendment shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to its principles of
conflicts of laws.

------

**IN WITNESS WHEREOF**, each of the parties hereto has caused this Amendment to be executed as of the Effective Date by its duly authorized representative indicated below. An authorized representative, if executing this Amendment by Electronic Signature, affirms authorization to execute this Amendment by Electronic Signature and that the Electronic Signature represents an intent to enter into this Amendment and an agreement with its terms.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** | **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** |
| On behalf of each of its Funds identified on | On behalf of each of its Funds identified on |
| Schedule A attached hereto | Schedule A attached hereto |
| By: | /s/ Chris Bradford |
| Name: | Chris Bradford |
| Title: | Vice President |
| **THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON** | **THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON** |
| By: | /s/ Michael Gronsky |
| Name: | Michael Gronsky |
| Title: | Senior Vice President Date: June 3, 2025 |

---

------

**SCHEDULE A** 

**(Amended and Restated as of June 9, 2025)** 

**GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** 

Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets Local Currency Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets USD Bond ETF

Goldman Sachs Access High Yield Corporate Bond ETF

Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF

Goldman Sachs Access Inflation Protected USD Bond ETF

Goldman Sachs Access Treasury 0-1 Year ETF

Goldman Sachs Access China Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 1-5 Year Bond ETF

Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 10+ Year Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Total Bond Market ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Treasury Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Europe Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Japan Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Low Vol Plus Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Small Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Equal Weight U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Consumer Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Health Care Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Planet Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF

Goldman Sachs Innovate Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs JUST U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> International Small Cap Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Paris-Aligned Climate High Yield Corporate Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> World Low Vol Plus Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Access Municipal Bond ETF<sup>2</sup>

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Paris-Aligned Climate Emerging Markets Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Paris-Aligned Climate International Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Small Cap Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Low Vol Plus Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Treasury 0-6 Month ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Nasdaq-100 Premium Income ETF<sup>3</sup>

------

Goldman Sachs S&P 500 Premium Income ETF<sup>4</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Equity ETF<sup>5</sup>

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Russell 1000 Value Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Russell 1000 Growth Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Preferred Stock and Hybrid Securities ETF

Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs Dynamic California Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs Dynamic New York Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 1 ETF

Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 2 ETF

Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 3 ETF

Goldman Sachs India Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Core Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Corporate Bond ETF\*

**GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST II** 

Goldman Sachs <sub>MarketBeta</sub><sup>®</sup> U.S. 1000 Equity ETF Goldman

Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Total International Equity ETF

\* The Fund has not yet commenced operations. GSAM will provide the Bank notice to commence services upon the Fund's launch.

<sup>1</sup> Fund name was changed from Goldman Sachs Access Ultra Short Bond ETF

<sup>2</sup> Fund name was changed from Goldman Sachs Community Municipal Bond ETF

<sup>3</sup> Fund name was changed from Goldman Sachs Nasdaq-100 Core Premium Income ETF

<sup>4</sup> Fund name was changed from Goldman Sachs S&P 500 Core Premium Income ETF

<sup>5</sup> Fund name was changed from Goldman Sachs Small Cap Core Equity ETF

## Ex-99.(H)(22)

**EX-99.(h)(22)** 

EXECUTION

**AMENDMENT** 

**TO** 

**FUND ADMINISTRATION AND ACCOUNTING AGREEMENT** 

This Amendment ("**Amendment**") is made as of June 9, 2025 (the "**Effective Date**"), by and between each of Goldman Sachs Trust, Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust, Goldman Sachs ETF Trust II, Goldman Sachs Real Estate Diversified Income Fund, Cayman Commodity-MFS, LLC and GS REFT FI TRS Ltd., separately and not jointly (collectively, the "**Funds**"), and The Bank of New York Mellon ("**BNY**").

**BACKGROUND:** 

A. BNY and certain of the Funds are parties to that certain Fund Administration and Accounting Agreement dated as
of April 5, 2011 (as amended to date, the "**Agreement** "), relating to BNY's provision of services to the Funds and each Series or subsidiary of a Series or a Fund, as applicable, listed on Exhibit A to the Agreement, as such
Exhibit A has been amended from time to time.

B. The parties desire to amend the Agreement as set forth herein.

**TERMS:** 

The parties hereby agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Exhibit A to the Agreement is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with Exhibit A attached hereto.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. The Agreement is hereby amended as of the Effective Date by adding the following to Section 4
("Delivery of Documents"):

"(d) The Funds acknowledge and agree that that the records maintained and reports provided by BNY in the course of its Start of Day Net Asset Valuation Service are for the Funds' internal purposes only. No third party shall be entitled to rely on any of the information provided by BNY in the course of its Start of Day Net Asset Valuation Service. Neither BNY nor any of its Affiliates will be liable for any investment or other decisions that are made by any third party on the basis of any information provide by BNY related to its Start of Day Net Asset Valuation Service."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. Miscellaneous

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;a. Capitalized terms not defined in this Amendment shall have the meaning given to such terms in the Agreement. In the event of a conflict between the terms of this Amendment and the Agreement, this Amendment shall control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;b. As hereby amended and supplemented, the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.

------

EXECUTION

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;c. The Agreement, as amended hereby, constitutes the complete understanding and agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter thereof and supersedes all prior communications with respect thereto.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;d. The parties expressly agree that this Amendment may be executed in one or more counterparts and expressly agree that such execution may occur by manual signature on a physically delivered copy of this Amendment, by a manual signature on a copy of this Amendment transmitted by facsimile transmission, by a manual signature on a copy of this Amendment transmitted as an imaged document attached to an email, or by "**Electronic Signature**", which is hereby defined to mean inserting an image, representation or symbol of a signature into an electronic copy of this Amendment by electronic, digital or other technological methods. Each counterpart executed in accordance with the foregoing shall be deemed an original, with all such counterparts together constituting one and the same instrument. The exchange of executed counterparts of this Amendment or of executed signature pages to counterparts of this Amendment, in either case by facsimile transmission or as an imaged document attached to an email transmission, shall constitute effective execution and delivery of this Amendment and may be used for all purposes in lieu of a manually executed and physically delivered copy of this Amendment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;e. This Amendment shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to its principles of conflicts of laws.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;f. For clarity, pursuant to the amendment to the Agreement dated August 8, 2023, GS REIT Operating Partnership L.P. and GS REIT FI TRS Ltd. are not required to execute this Amendment.

[Signature Pages Follow]

------

EXECUTION

**IN WITNESS WHEREOF,** the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed by their duly authorized officers and their seals to be hereunto affixed, all as of the Effective Date. An authorized representative, if executing this Amendment by Electronic Signature, affirms authorization to execute this Amendment by Electronic Signature and that the Electronic Signature represents an intent to enter into this Amendment and an agreement with its terms.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **GOLDMAN SACHS TRUST** | **GOLDMAN SACHS TRUST** |
| On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule | On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule |
| I attached hereto | I attached hereto |
| By: | /s/ Chris Bradford |
| Name: | Chris Bradford |
| Title: | Vice President |
| **GOLDMAN SACHS VARIABLE INSURANCE TRUST** | **GOLDMAN SACHS VARIABLE INSURANCE TRUST** |
| On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule | On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule |
| I attached hereto | I attached hereto |
| By: | /s/ Chris Bradford |
| Name: | Chris Bradford |
| Title: | Vice President |
| **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** | **GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** |
| On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule | On behalf of each of its Series identified on Schedule |
| I attached hereto | I attached hereto |
| By: | /s/ Chris Bradford |
| Name: | Chris Bradford |
| Title: | Vice President |
| **THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON** | **THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON** |
| By: | /s/ Michael Gronsky |
| Name: | Michael Gronsky |
| Title: | Senior Vice President Date: June 3, 2025 |

---

------

EXECUTION

**EXHIBIT A** 

(Amended and Restated as of June 9, 2025)

**CAYMAN COMMODITY-MFS, LLC**<sup>1</sup>

**GOLDMAN SACHS TRUST** 

Goldman Sachs Large Cap Equity Fund<sup>1</sup> <sup>2</sup>

Goldman Sachs China Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Dynamic Municipal Income Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Ex. China Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Enhanced U.S. Equity Fund<sup>8</sup>

Goldman Sachs Enhanced Dividend Global Equity Portfolio<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Equity Income Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs ESG Emerging Markets Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Federal Instruments Fund

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Government Fund

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Treasury Instruments Fund

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Treasury Obligations Fund

Goldman Sachs Financial Square Treasury Solutions Fund

Goldman Sachs Focused Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Global Infrastructure Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Growth Fund<sup>1</sup> 3

Goldman Sachs High Yield Municipal Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs International Equity ESG Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs International Equity Income Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs International Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs International Tax-Managed Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Investor Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Investor Tax-Exempt California Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Investor Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Investor Tax-Exempt New York Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Large Cap Growth Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Managed Futures Strategy Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Municipal Income Completion Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs Short Duration Tax-Free Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs Real Estate Securities Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Growth Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

------

EXECUTION

Goldman Sachs Small/Mid Cap Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small/Mid Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Tax-Advantaged Global Equity Portfolio<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Technology Opportunities Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs U.S. Equity ESG Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs U.S. Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs U.S. Tax-Managed Equity Fund<sup>1</sup>

**GOLDMAN SACHS VARIABLE INSURANCE TRUST** 

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs Core Fixed Income Fund<sup>1</sup> +

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs Trend Driven Allocation Fund <sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs Government Money Market Fund

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs International Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs Small Cap Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund<sup>1</sup>

Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust - Goldman Sachs U.S. Equity Insights Fund<sup>1</sup>

**GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** 

Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets Local Currency Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Emerging Markets USD Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access High Yield Corporate Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access Inflation Protected USD Bond ETF

Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access Treasury 0-1 Year ETF

Goldman Sachs Access China Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 1-5 Year Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access Investment Grade Corporate 10+ Year Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Total Bond Market ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF<sup>+</sup>

Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Treasury Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Bond ETF<sup>+9</sup>

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Europe Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Japan Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Low Vol Plus Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Small Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Equal Weight U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Consumer Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Health Care Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Planet Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF

------

EXECUTION

Goldman Sachs Hedge Industry VIP ETF

Goldman Sachs Innovate Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs JUST U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> International Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> International Small Cap Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> World Low Vol Plus Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Access Municipal Bond ETF<sup>10</sup>

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Paris-Aligned Climate Emerging Markets Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Paris Aligned Climate International Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Paris-Aligned Climate High Yield Corporate Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. Small Cap Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta<sup>®</sup> Emerging Markets Low Vol Plus Equity ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Access Treasury 0-6 Month ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Defensive Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Nasdaq-100 Premium Income ETF<sup>5</sup>

Goldman Sachs S&P 500 Premium Income ETF<sup>6</sup>

Goldman Sachs Small Cap Equity ETF<sup>7</sup>

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Russell 1000 Value Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Russell 1000 Growth Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Access U.S. Preferred Stock and Hybrid Securities ETF

Goldman Sachs Ultra Short Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs Dynamic California Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs Dynamic New York Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs Municipal Income ETF

Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 1 ETF

Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 2 ETF

Goldman Sachs U.S. Large Cap Buffer 3 ETF

Goldman Sachs India Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs Core Bond ETF\*

Goldman Sachs Corporate Bond ETF\*

**GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST II** 

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> U.S. 1000 Equity ETF

Goldman Sachs MarketBeta<sup>®</sup> Total International Equity ETF

**GOLDMAN SACHS REAL ESTATE DIVERSIFIED INCOME FUND<sup>1</sup>** 

DIF Investments LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary<sup>1</sup>

DIF Investments II LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary<sup>1</sup>

DIF Investments III LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary<sup>1</sup>

**GS REIT OPERATING PARTNERSHIP L.P.**<sup>4</sup>

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**GS REIT FI TRS LTD.<sup>4</sup>** 

**GS REFT FI TRS LTD.<sup>4</sup>** 

\* The Fund has not yet commenced operations. Goldman Sachs Asset Management will provide notice to BNY to commence services upon the Fund's launch.

<sup>1</sup> BNY shall provide the services set forth in Schedules I and II to the Agreement except that BNY shall not provide, and the Fund shall not receive, the following services:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schedule I – item number 2 (Provide monthly and weekly, or as mutually agreed by the parties, portfolio
holdings information and other information required to be posted on the Fund's website pursuant to Rule 2a-7(c)(12) under the 1940 Act)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schedule II –

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section I, item 5 (Daily Yields) and item 6 (Prepare Money Market Fee Waiver Spreadsheet as requested by Fund
Controllers);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section II; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section III, item 11 (Monthly Money Market Fee Waiver Spreadsheet in agreed-upon format as requested by Fund
Controllers).

For clarity, Schedules III and IV to the Agreement do not apply

<sup>2</sup> Named has been changed from Goldman Sachs Large Cap Core Fund.

<sup>3</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund.

<sup>4</sup> BNY shall provide the services set forth in Schedules I and II to the Agreement except that BNY shall not provide, and the Fund shall not receive, the following services:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Expense Budgeting services as set forth in the amendment to the Agreement dated January 6, 2016

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Calculation and invoicing of variable expenses

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Calculation of net asset value per share

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schedule I –

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 1 (Subject to approval by the Fund Controllers team and legal counsel, coordinate the preparation, filing,
printing and dissemination of periodic reports and other information to the SEC and the Fund's shareholders, including annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders, Form N-CEN, Form N-CSR, Form N-PORT, and notices pursuant to Rule 24(f)-2);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 2 (Provide monthly and weekly, or as mutually agreed by the parties, portfolio holdings information and
other information required to be posted on the Fund's website pursuant to Rule 2a-7(c)(12) under the 1940 Act);

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 3 (Prepare statistical reports for outside information services as mutually agreed by the parties);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 4 (Prepare reports to rating agencies, including Standard & Poors, Moody's and Fitch);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 5 (Attend shareholder and Board meetings as requested from time to time); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Item 7 (Provide wash sale reporting on a periodic basis)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Schedule II –

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section I, item 3 (Statement of net asset value per share), item 5 (Daily yields), and item 6 (Prepare Money
Market Fee Waiver Spreadsheet as requested by Fund Controllers)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section II

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section III, item 4 (Subscriptions Journal), item 5 (Redemptions Journal), item 8 (Open Subscriptions/Redemption
Reports), item 10 (Broker Net Trades Reports), and item 11 (Monthly Money Market Fee Waiver Spreadsheet in agreed upon format as requested by Fund Controllers)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Section V, item 5 (Capital stock sold) and item 6 (Capital stock redeemed)

For clarity, (1) Schedules III and IV to the Agreement do not apply and (2) services specifically related to investment companies registered under the 1940 Act do not apply

+ The service set forth in section (o) of Schedule IV will apply.

<sup>5</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Nasdaq-100 Core Premium Income ETF

<sup>6</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs S&P 500 Core Premium Income ETF

<sup>7</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Small Cap Core Equity ETF

<sup>8</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Enhanced Core Equity Fund.

<sup>9</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Access Ultra Short Bond ETF.

<sup>10</sup> Name has been changed from Goldman Sachs Community Municipal Bond ETF

## Ex-99.(Q)

**EX-99.(q)** 

**GOLDMAN SACHS ETF TRUST** 

**<u>Power of Attorney</u>**

**Know All Persons By These Presents,** that each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints James A. McNamara, Caroline L. Kraus, Joseph F. DiMaria and Robert Griffith, jointly and severally, and each of them, his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, until the earlier of his or her resignation or removal as an officer of Goldman Sachs ETF Trust (the "Trust"), each with power and authority of substitution and resubstitution, for him or her in any and all capacities to sign the Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, of the Trust and any and all amendments to such Registration Statement, and to file the same, with exhibits thereto, and other instruments or documents in connection therewith, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all that each of said attorneys-in-fact, or his or her substitute or substitutes, may do or cause to be done by virtue thereof.

This Power of Attorney may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but which taken together shall constitute one instrument.

WITNESS our hands on the date(s) set forth below.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name** | **Title** | **Date** |
| /s/ James A. McNamara | President (Chief Executive Officer)<br> and Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| James A. McNamara | President (Chief Executive Officer)<br> and Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Joseph F. DiMaria | Treasurer, Principal Financial Officer and<br> Principal Accounting Officer | June 18, 2025 |
| Joseph F. DiMaria | Treasurer, Principal Financial Officer and<br> Principal Accounting Officer | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Gregory G. Weaver | Chair and Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Gregory G. Weaver | Chair and Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Cheryl K. Beebe | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Cheryl K. Beebe | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Dwight L. Bush | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Dwight L. Bush | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Kathryn A. Cassidy | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Kathryn A. Cassidy | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ John G. Chou | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| John G. Chou | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Joaquin Delgado | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Joaquin Delgado | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Eileen H. Dowling | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Eileen H. Dowling | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Lawrence Hughes | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Lawrence Hughes | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| /s/ John F. Killian | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| John F. Killian | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Steven D. Krichmar | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Steven D. Krichmar | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Michael Latham | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Michael Latham | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| /s/ Lawrence W. Stranghoener | Trustee | June 18, 2025 |
| Lawrence W. Stranghoener |  |  |

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