Goldman Sachs AM Launches GS Plus Gold ETF with NISA Options

Introduction

Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM) is set to launch the "GS Plus Gold" (with and without currency hedge) ETF on December 9, 2025. This new fund aims to provide investors with direct exposure to the gold market while catering to the growing demand for unique investment options amidst fluctuating economic conditions.

Fund Highlights

1. Direct Gold Investment
The ETF is designed to reflect the price movements of physical gold investments, enabling investors to access the gold market without the hassle of direct ownership. This innovative structure helps minimize the complexities often associated with holding physical assets.
2. Flexible Hedge Options
Investors can choose between two fund options: one with currency hedging and another without. This flexibility allows investors to align their choices with their investment objectives and risk appetite.
3. No Initial Purchase Fees
The fund is structured as a no-load product, meaning there are no purchase fees at the time of investment, which can be a significant advantage as it promotes further investment without immediate costs.

The Current Economic Landscape

In recent years, the global economy has faced unprecedented changes, leading to increased uncertainty. Amid such turbulence, gold is often viewed as a safe haven due to its rarity, inflation resilience, and ability to offer stability during economic fluctuations. The introduction of the GS Plus Gold ETF represents a timely response to the diverse and evolving needs of investors seeking to diversify their portfolios.

The New GS Plus Fund Series

The GS Plus Gold ETF follows the launch of the "GS Plus Global Equity (All-Country)" fund, placing it as the second addition to the GS Plus series. The goal is to provide a platform for effectively capitalizing on the benefits of gold investments, particularly for a broad range of investors, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Additionally, this fund can be utilized under Japan's NISA growth investment framework, further enhancing its appeal.

Gold as an Investment

Historically, gold has demonstrated a consistent upward trend as a long-term asset. It has reached record trading prices recently in international markets, reflecting its enduring strength as an investment. The scarcity of gold – with only about 220,000 tons mined throughout history, and annual production remaining below 5,000 tons – contributes significantly to its value. This scarcity makes gold less susceptible to risks associated with specific countries, prompting central banks worldwide to increase their gold reserves as part of their preparations.

Inflation Hedge and Market Stabilization

Gold has established a reputation for preserving value during inflationary periods. Its ability to hold value, especially when real currency values depreciate, has drawn interest from investors seeking a hedge against rising prices. Furthermore, during recessionary times, the demand for safe-haven assets tends to increase, leading gold to show stable price movements compared to riskier assets like stocks, thereby potentially reducing portfolio volatility.

Goldman Sachs Asset Management Overview

Goldman Sachs Asset Management boasts a substantial asset management capacity of over 440 trillion yen (as of June 2025), servicing institutional and individual investors, including high-net-worth individuals. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1869, GSAM has maintained a strong global presence across nearly 90 locations in over 40 countries, continuing to offer diverse investment services and solutions.

Conclusion

The upcoming GS Plus Gold ETF not only offers a unique opportunity for investors to enter the gold market effectively but also showcases Goldman Sachs' commitment to innovation in response to changing investor needs. Whether you're new to gold investments or a seasoned investor, this offering aims to enhance your portfolio's performance and stability. For further details on this fund, visit their dedicated page.