06/02/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/02/2026 07:55
Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(2)
Registration No. 333-277211
May 29, 2026
PRICING SUPPLEMENT
(To Product Supplement No. 2 dated May 8, 2024, Prospectus Supplement dated
February 21, 2024 and Prospectus dated February 21, 2024)
| HSBC USA Inc. | ||
| Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside | ||
| $920,000 Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 | ||
| ¨ | Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation (the "Underlying Stock") | |
| ¨ | Unlike ordinary debt securities, the securities do not repay a fixed amount of principal at maturity and are subject to potential automatic call prior to maturity upon the terms described below. Whether the securities are automatically called prior to maturity and, if they are not automatically called, whether you receive the face amount of your securities at maturity will depend, in each case, on the stock closing price of the Underlying Stock on the relevant call date or the final calculation day. | |
| ¨ | Quarterly Coupon. The securities will pay a fixed coupon payment on a quarterly basis until the earlier of the stated maturity date or automatic call, at a per annum rate is 10.50% per annum | |
| ¨ | Automatic Call. If the stock closing price of the Underlying Stock on any of the quarterly call dates from December 2026 to June 2027, inclusive, is greater than or equal to the starting price, the securities will be automatically called for the face amount plus a final coupon payment | |
| ¨ |
Maturity Payment Amount. If the securities are not automatically called prior to maturity, you will receive a maturity payment amount (in addition to the final coupon payment) depending on the ending price of the Underlying Stock determined as follows: ¨ If the stock closing price of the Underlying Stock is greater than or equal to the downside threshold price, you will receive the face amount ¨ If the stock closing price of the Underlying Stock on the final calculation day decreases by more than the buffer amount, we will deliver to you at maturity a number of shares of the Underlying Stock equal to the share delivery amount, which is equal to the face amount divided by the threshold price, subject to adjustment for certain corporate events. The share delivery amount is expected to be worth less than the face amount of the securities and may be worthless. The buffer amount is 20% and the downside threshold price is equal to 80% of the starting price |
|
| ¨ | If the securities are not automatically called prior to maturity, you will have downside exposure to the Underlying Stock if the ending price is less than the threshold price, but you will not participate in any appreciation of the Underlying Stock and will not receive any dividends on the Underlying Stock | |
| ¨ | All payments on the securities are subject to the credit risk of HSBC USA Inc. and you will have no ability to pursue the issuer of the Underlying Stock for payment; if HSBC USA Inc. defaults on its obligations, you could lose all or some of your investment | |
| ¨ | No exchange listing; designed to be held to maturity or earlier automatic call |
Neither the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of the securities or passed upon the accuracy or the adequacy of this document, the accompanying prospectus, prospectus supplement or product supplement. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
The securities have complex features and investing in the securities involves risks not associated with an investment in conventional debt securities. You should refer to "Selected Risk Considerations" beginning on page PS-9 of this document and "Risk Factors" beginning on page S-1 of the accompanying prospectus supplement and page PS-5 of the accompanying product supplement.
| Original Offering Price | Underwriting Discount (1) (2) | Proceeds to HSBC | ||||
| Per Security | $1,000.00 | $15.75 | $984.25 | |||
| Total | $920,000.00 | $14,490.00 | $905,510.00 |
| (1) | HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. will receive an underwriting discount of $15.75 per security, which it will pay to the agent, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC ("Wells Fargo Securities"), as a commission. The agent may resell the securities to other securities dealers at the original offering price less a concession of $10.00 per security. Such securities dealers may include Wells Fargo Advisors ("WFA") (the trade name of the retail brokerage business of Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, each an affiliate of Wells Fargo Securities). In addition to the selling concession allowed to WFA, the agent may pay $0.75 per security of the commission to WFA as a distribution expense fee for each security sold by WFA. In addition, in respect of certain securities sold in this offering, the Issuer may pay a fee of $2.00 per security to selected securities dealers in consideration for marketing and other services in connection with the distribution of the securities to other securities dealers. See "Terms of the Securities-Agent's Commission and Other Fees" in this pricing supplement and "Use of Proceeds and Hedging" in the prospectus supplement for information regarding how we may hedge our obligations under the securities. |
The estimated initial value of the securities on the pricing date is $959.30 per security, which is less than the price to public. The market value of the securities at any time will reflect many factors and cannot be predicted with accuracy. See "Terms of the Securities-Estimated Initial Value" on page PS-3 and "Selected Risk Considerations" beginning on page PS-9 of this document for additional information.
| HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. | Wells Fargo Securities |
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| Terms of the Securities |
| Issuer: | HSBC USA Inc. | |
| Market Measure: | The Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation (Bloomberg ticker symbol "IBM") (the "Underlying Stock") | |
| Original Offering Price: | $1,000 per security. | |
| Face Amount: | The principal amount of $1,000 per security. References in this pricing supplement to a "security" are to a security with a face amount of $1,000. | |
| Pricing Date: | May 29, 2026 | |
| Issue Date: | June 3, 2026 | |
| Final Calculation Day: | May 28, 2027, subject to postponement as described below under "-Market Disruption Events and Postponement Provisions." | |
| Stated Maturity Date: | June 3, 2027, subject to postponement. The securities are not subject to redemption at the option of HSBC or repayment at the option of any holder of the securities prior to maturity or automatic call. | |
| Coupon Payments: |
On each coupon payment date, you will receive a fixed coupon payment at a per annum rate equal to the coupon rate (each a "coupon payment"). Each coupon payment will be calculated per security as follows: ($1,000 × coupon rate)/4. A coupon payment will be rounded to the nearest cent, with one-half cent rounded upward. |
|
| Coupon Rate: | 10.50% per annum. | |
| Coupon Payment Dates: |
Quarterly, on the 3rd of each March, June, September, and December, commencing September 2026 and ending on the stated maturity date, unless called earlier, provided that if a call date is postponed, as described under "-Market Disruption Events and Postponement Provisions" below, the coupon payment to be made on the coupon payment date immediately following that originally scheduled call date will be made on the date that is three business days after that call date as postponed. If any coupon payment is made on a day after the relevant scheduled coupon payment date, interest on that payment will not accrue during the period from and after the scheduled coupon payment date. See "Description of Notes-Definitions" on page S-15 of the accompanying prospectus supplement for the definition of record date. |
|
| Call Dates: | Quarterly, on the third business day prior to each coupon payment date, commencing December 2026 and ending June 2027, inclusive, each subject to postponement as described below under "-Market Disruption Events and Postponement Provisions" below. | |
| Automatic Call: |
If the stock closing price of the Underlying Stock on any call date is greater than or equal to the starting price, the securities will be automatically called, and on the related call settlement date, you will be entitled to receive a cash payment per security in U.S. dollars equal to the face amount plus a final coupon payment. The securities will not be subject to automatic call until the second calculation day, which is approximately six months after the issue date. If the securities are automatically called, they will cease to be outstanding on the related call settlement date and you will have no further rights under the securities after such call settlement date. You will not receive any notice from us if the securities are automatically called. |
|
| Call Settlement Dates: | Three business days after the applicable call date (as each such call date may be postponed pursuant to "-Market Disruption Events and Postponement Provisions" below, if applicable). | |
|
Maturity Payment Amount: |
If the securities are not automatically called prior to maturity, you will be entitled to receive the maturity payment amount (in addition to the final coupon payment). The "maturity payment amount" per security will be determined as follows: • if the ending price is greater than or equal to the threshold price: a cash payment in U.S. dollars equal to $1,000; or |
PS-2
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
|
• if the ending price is less than the threshold price: a number of shares of the Underlying Stock equal to the share delivery amount If the securities are not automatically called prior to maturity and the ending price is less than the threshold price, you will receive a number of shares of the Underlying Stock at maturity that is expected to be worth less than the face amount of the securities and may be worthless. The actual value of the shares you receive at maturity will depend on the closing value of the Underlying Stock on the stated maturity date, which may be lower than its value on the final calculation day. Any positive return on the securities will be limited to the sum of your coupon payments. You will not participate in any appreciation of the Underlying Stock, but you will have downside exposure to the Underlying Stock if the ending price is less than the threshold price. |
||
| Share Delivery Amount: |
A number of shares of the Underlying Stock equal to the product of (i) the face amount divided by the threshold price and (ii) the adjustment factor as of the stated maturity date, rounded to five decimal places. The adjustment factor is initially set equal to 1.0 on the pricing date, subject to adjustment for certain corporate events relating to the Underlying Stock, as described under "General Terms of the Securities-Certain Terms for Securities Linked to an Underlying Stock- Adjustment Events" in the accompanying product supplement. For purposes of determining the share delivery amount, the adjustment factor will be subject to adjustment for events with an effective date or ex-dividend date, as applicable, from but excluding the pricing date to and including the stated maturity date. We will pay cash in lieu of delivering any fractional shares of the Underlying Stock in an amount equal to that fraction multiplied by the ending price. |
|
| Threshold Price: | $238.24, which is equal to 80% of the starting price. | |
| Buffer Amount: | 20% | |
| Starting Price: | $297.80, the stock closing price of the Underlying Stock on the pricing date. | |
| Ending Price: | The stock closing price of the Underlying Stock on the final calculation day. | |
| Stock Closing Price: | The stock closing price, the closing price and the adjustment factor have the meanings set forth under "General Terms of the Securities-Certain Terms for Securities Linked to an Underlying Stock-Certain Definitions" in the accompanying product supplement. | |
| Market Disruption Events and Postponement Provisions: | Each call date and the final calculation day are subject to postponement due to non-trading days and the occurrence of a market disruption event. In addition, the stated maturity date will be postponed if the final calculation day is postponed and will be adjusted for non-business days. For more information regarding adjustments to the call dates and the final calculation day, the call settlement dates and the stated maturity date, see "General Terms of the Securities-Consequences of a Market Disruption Event; Postponement of a Calculation Day - Securities Linked to a Single Market Measure" and "-Payment Dates" in the accompanying product supplement. For purposes of the accompanying product supplement, each call date, and the final calculation day is a "calculation day," and each coupon payment date, each call settlement date and the stated maturity date are a "payment date." In addition, for information regarding the circumstances that may result in a market disruption event, see "General Terms of the Securities-Certain Terms for Securities Linked to an Underlying Stock-Market Disruption Events" in the accompanying product supplement. | |
| Calculation Agent: | HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. | |
| Estimated Initial Value: | The estimated initial value of the securities is less than the price you pay to purchase the securities. The estimated initial value does not represent a minimum price at which we or any of our affiliates would be willing to purchase your securities in the secondary market, if any, at any time. See "Selected Risk Considerations - The Estimated Initial Value Of The Securities, Which Was Determined By Us On The Pricing Date, Is Less Than The Original Offering Price And May Differ From The Market Value Of The Securities In The Secondary Market, If Any." | |
| Material U.S. Tax Consequences: | For a discussion of the U.S. federal income and estate tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of the securities, see "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations" herein and "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations" in the accompanying prospectus supplement. | |
| Agent's Commission and Other Fees: |
HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. will receive an underwriting discount of $15.75 per security, which it will pay to the agent, Wells Fargo Securities, as a commission. The agent may resell the securities to other securities dealers at the original offering price of the securities less a concession of $10.00 per security. Such securities dealers may include WFA. In addition to the selling concession allowed to WFA, Wells Fargo Securities may pay $0.75 per security of the commission to WFA as a distribution |
PS-3
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
|
expense fee for each security sold by WFA. In addition, in respect of certain securities sold in this offering, the Issuer may pay a fee of $2.00 per security to selected securities dealers in consideration for marketing and other services in connection with the distribution of the securities to other securities dealers. We expect to hedge our obligations through the agent, one of our or its affiliates and/or another unaffiliated counterparty, which expects to realize hedging profits projected by its proprietary pricing models to the extent it assumes the risks inherent in hedging our obligations under the securities. If any dealer participating in the distribution of the securities or any of its affiliates conducts hedging activities for us in connection with the securities, that dealer or its affiliate will expect to realize a profit projected by its proprietary pricing models from such hedging activities. Any such projected profit will be in addition to any discount, concession or fee received in connection with the sale of the securities to you. |
||
| Settlement: | Delivery of the securities will be made against payment therefor in New York, New York on the issue date specified above, which is expected to be more than one business day following the pricing date. Under Rule 15c6-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, trades in the secondary market generally are required to settle in one business day, unless the parties to any such trade expressly agree otherwise. Accordingly, purchasers who wish to trade securities on any date prior to one business day before delivery will be required to specify alternative settlement arrangements to prevent a failed settlement. | |
| Denominations: | $1,000 and any integral multiple of $1,000. | |
| CUSIP / ISIN: | 40428H3S9/ US40428H3S97 |
PS-4
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| Additional Information About HSBC USA Inc. and the Securities |
This document relates to the offering of securities identified on the cover page. As a purchaser of a security, you will acquire an investment instrument linked to the Underlying Stock. Although the offering relates to the Underlying Stock, you should not construe that fact as a recommendation of the merits of acquiring an investment linked to the Underlying Stock, or as to the suitability of an investment in the securities.
You should read this document together with the prospectus dated February 21, 2024, the prospectus supplement dated February 21, 2024, and the product supplement No. 2 dated May 8, 2024. If the terms of the securities offered hereby are inconsistent with those described in the accompanying product supplement, prospectus supplement or prospectus, the terms described in this pricing supplement shall control. You should carefully consider, among other things, the matters set forth in "Selected Risk Considerations" beginning on page PS-9 of this pricing supplement and in "Risk Factors" beginning on page PS-5 of the product supplement, and beginning on page S-1 of the prospectus supplement, as the securities involve risks not associated with conventional debt securities. You are urged to consult your investment, legal, tax, accounting and other advisors before you invest in the securities.
HSBC USA Inc. has filed a registration statement (including the product supplement, prospectus and prospectus supplement) with the SEC for the offering to which this pricing supplement relates. Before you invest, you should read the product supplement, prospectus and prospectus supplement in that registration statement and other documents HSBC USA Inc. has filed with the SEC for more complete information about HSBC USA Inc. and this offering. You may get these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. or any dealer participating in this offering will arrange to send you the product supplement, prospectus supplement and prospectus if you request them by calling 212-525-8010.
References to "HSBC," "the Issuer," "the Bank," "we," "us" and "our" in this pricing supplement are references to HSBC USA Inc. and not to any of our subsidiaries, unless we state otherwise or the context otherwise requires.
You may access the product supplement, the prospectus supplement and the prospectus on the SEC website www.sec.gov as follows (or if such address has changed, by reviewing our filing for the relevant date on the SEC website):
| · | Product supplement dated May 8, 2024: |
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/83246/000110465924058672/tm2413644d20_424b2.htm
| · | Prospectus supplement dated February 21, 2024: |
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/83246/000110465924025878/tm244959d1_424b2.htm
| · | Prospectus dated February 21, 2024: |
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/83246/000110465924025864/tm244959d13_424b3.htm
PS-5
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| Investor Considerations |
The securities are not appropriate for all investors. The securities may be an appropriate investment for investors who:
| § | seek an investment with fixed coupon payments at a rate of 10.50% per annum until the earlier of maturity or automatic call; |
| § | understand that if the ending price is less than the starting price by more than the buffer amount, they will receive a number of shares of the Underlying Stock at maturity that is expected to be worth less than the face amount of the securities and may be worthless; |
| § | understand that you may not receive a cash payment at maturity and are instead willing to accept delivery of shares of the Underlying Stock if the ending price is less than the threshold price; |
| § | understand that the securities may be automatically called prior to maturity and that the term of the securities may be as short as approximately six months; |
| § | are willing to forgo participation in any appreciation of the Underlying Stock and dividends or other distributions paid on the Underlying Stock; and |
| § | are willing to hold the securities to maturity or earlier automatic call. |
The securities may not be an appropriate investment for investors who:
| § | seek a liquid investment or are unable or unwilling to hold the securities to maturity or earlier automatic call; |
| § | require full payment of the face amount of the securities at maturity; |
| § | seek a security with a fixed term; |
| § | are unwilling to purchase securities with an estimated value as of the pricing date that is lower than the original offering price; |
| § | are unwilling to accept the risk that the securities are not automatically called prior to maturity and the stock closing price may decline by more than the buffer amount from the starting price, and if it is, they will receive a number of shares of the Underlying Stock at maturity that is expected to be worth less than the face amount of the securities and may be worthless; |
| § | seek exposure to the upside performance of the Underlying Stock; |
| § | are unwilling to accept the risk of exposure to the Underlying Stock; |
| § | are unwilling to accept the credit risk of HSBC; or |
| § | prefer the lower risk of conventional fixed income investments with comparable maturities issued by companies with comparable credit ratings. |
The considerations identified above are not exhaustive. Whether or not the securities are an appropriate investment for you will depend on your individual circumstances, and you should reach an investment decision only after you and your investment, legal, tax, accounting and other advisors have carefully considered the appropriateness of an investment in the securities in light of your particular circumstances. You should also review carefully the "Selected Risk Considerations" herein and "Risk Factors" in the accompanying product supplement and prospectus supplement, for risks related to an investment in the securities. For more information about the Underlying Stock, please see "The Underlying Stock" below.
PS-6
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| Determining Payment At Maturity |
If the securities have not been automatically called prior to maturity, then at maturity, you will receive (in addition to the final coupon payment) the maturity payment amount calculated as follows:
PS-7
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| Hypothetical Payout Profile |
The following profile illustrates the value of the potential maturity payment amount on the securities (excluding the final coupon payment) for a range of hypothetical performances from the starting price to the ending price, assuming the securities have not been automatically called prior to maturity. As this profile illustrates, in no event will you have a positive rate of return based solely on value of the maturity payment amount received at maturity; any positive return will be based solely on the coupon payments received during the term of the securities. This graph has been prepared for purposes of illustration only. Your actual return will depend on whether the securities are automatically called, the actual ending price and whether you hold your securities to stated maturity.
If the ending price is less than the threshold price, you will receive on the stated maturity date per security a number of shares of the Underlying Stock equal to the share delivery amount. Fractional shares will be paid in cash. For purposes of the following profile, the value of the shares received is calculated based on the ending price. The actual value of any shares received on the stated maturity date will depend on the closing price of the Underlying Stock on the stated maturity date rather than the ending price and may be less than the amounts shown.
PS-8
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| Selected Risk Considerations |
The securities have complex features and investing in the securities will involve risks not associated with an investment in conventional debt securities. Some of the risks that apply to an investment in the securities are summarized below, but we urge you to read the more detailed explanation of the risks relating to the securities generally in the "Risk Factors" beginning on page PS-5 of the accompanying product supplement, page S-1 of the prospectus supplement and page 1 of the prospectus. You should reach an investment decision only after you have carefully considered with your advisors the appropriateness of an investment in the securities in light of your particular circumstances.
Risks Relating To The Structure Of The Securities
If The Securities Are Not Automatically Called Prior To Maturity, You May Lose Some Or All Of The Face Amount Of Your Securities At Maturity.
We will not repay you a fixed amount on the securities at maturity. If the securities are not automatically called prior to maturity, you will receive a maturity payment amount that will be equal to or less than the face amount, depending on the ending price of the Underlying Stock on the final calculation day.
If the securities are not automatically called prior to maturity and the ending price is less than the threshold price, you will not be repaid the face amount of your securities at maturity and, instead, will receive a number of shares of the Underlying Stock that will likely be worth less than the face amount and may be worth nothing. The value of those shares may decrease further between the final calculation day and the maturity date. You should not invest in the securities if you are unwilling or unable to bear the risk of losing the entire face amount of your securities.
At maturity, if the ending price is less than the threshold price, you will have similar downside market risk as a purchaser of the Underlying Stock at the threshold price (except that you will not receive any dividends). This will result in a smaller loss on the securities (disregarding dividends) than would be incurred by a purchaser of the Underlying Stock at the starting price, unless the ending price is zero. However, you will be exposed to any decline in the value of the Underlying Stock below the threshold price at a greater rate. For example, assuming that the Underlying Stock declines by 50% from its starting price to its closing price on the stated maturity date, the value of the shares you receive would be approximately 62.50% of the face amount, and if the Underlying Stock declines by 75% from its starting price to its closing price on the stated maturity date, the value of the shares you receive would be approximately 31.25% of the face amount. Therefore, the lower the closing price of the Underlying Stock on the stated maturity date, the closer the loss on your face amount will be to the percentage decline of the Underlying Stock from the starting price. If the closing price of the Underlying Stock on the stated maturity date is zero, the value of the shares you receive will be worthless.
You May Be Exposed To A Decline In The Underlying Stock In Excess Of The Buffer Amount, But Will Not Participate In Any Positive Performance Of The Underlying Stock, And Your Maximum Possible Return On The Securities Will Be Limited To The Sum Of All Coupon Payments.
Even though you will be exposed to a decline in the price if the ending price is below the threshold price, you will not participate in any increase in the price of the Underlying Stock over the term of the securities. Your maximum possible return on the securities will be limited to the sum of the coupon payments you receive. Consequently, your return on the securities may be significantly less than the return you could achieve on an alternative investment that provides for participation in an increase in the price of the Underlying Stock.
Higher Coupon Rates Are Associated With Greater Risk.
The securities offer coupon payments at a higher rate than the rate we would pay on conventional debt securities of the same maturity. These higher coupon payments are associated with greater levels of expected risk as of the pricing date as compared to conventional debt securities, including the risk that you may lose a substantial portion, and possibly all, of the face amount at maturity. The volatility of the Underlying Stock is an important factor affecting this risk. Volatility is a measurement of the size and frequency of daily fluctuations in the value of the Underlying Stock, typically observed over a specified period of time. Volatility can be measured in a variety of ways, including on a historical basis or on an expected basis as implied by option prices in the market. Greater expected volatility of the Underlying Stock as of the pricing date may result in a higher coupon rate, but it also represents a greater expected likelihood as of the pricing date that the ending price will be less than the threshold price on the final calculation day such that you will lose a substantial portion, and possibly all, of the face amount at maturity. In general, the higher the coupon rate is relative to the fixed rate we would pay on conventional debt securities, the greater the expected risk that you will lose a substantial portion, and possibly all, of the face amount at maturity.
You Will Be Subject To Reinvestment Risk.
If your securities are automatically called, the term of the securities may be reduced to as short as approximately six months. There is no guarantee that you would be able to reinvest the proceeds from an investment in the securities at a comparable return for a similar level of risk in the event the securities are automatically called prior to maturity.
A Coupon Payment Date, A Call Settlement Date And The Stated Maturity Date May Be Postponed If A Call Date Or The Final Calculation Day Is Postponed.
A call date and the final calculation day with respect to the Underlying Stock will be postponed if such originally scheduled day is not a trading day with respect to the Underlying Stock or if the calculation agent determines that a market disruption event has occurred or is
PS-9
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
continuing with respect to that Underlying Stock on that day. If such a postponement occurs with respect to a call date, then the related coupon payment date or call settlement date, as applicable, will be postponed. If such a postponement occurs with respect to the final calculation day, the stated maturity date will be the later of (i) the initial stated maturity date and (ii) the third business day after the last final calculation day as postponed.
Risk Relating To The Credit Risk Of HSBC
The Securities Are Subject To The Credit Risk Of HSBC USA Inc.
The securities are our obligations exclusively and are not, either directly or indirectly, an obligation of any third party. Any amounts payable under the securities are subject to our creditworthiness, and you will have no ability to pursue the issuer of the Underlying Stock for payment. As a result, our actual and perceived creditworthiness and actual or anticipated decreases in our credit ratings may affect the value of the securities and, in the event we were to default on our obligations, you may not receive any amounts owed to you under the terms of the securities. See "Description of Senior Debt Securities-Events of Default" in the prospectus.
Risks Relating To The Estimated Value Of The Securities And Any Secondary Market
The Estimated Initial Value Of The Securities, Which Was Determined By Us On The Pricing Date, Is Less Than The Original Offering Price And May Differ From The Market Value Of The Securities In The Secondary Market, If Any.
The estimated initial value of the securities was calculated by us on the pricing date and is less than the original offering price. The estimated initial value reflects our and our affiliates' internal funding rate, which is the borrowing rate paid to issue market-linked securities, as well as the mid-market value of the embedded derivatives in the securities. This internal funding rate is typically lower than the rate we would use when we issue conventional fixed or floating rate debt securities. As a result of the difference between our internal funding rate and the rate we would use when we issue conventional fixed or floating rate debt securities, the estimated initial value of the securities may be lower if it were based on the prices at which our fixed or floating rate debt securities trade in the secondary market. In addition, if we were to use the rate we use for our conventional fixed or floating rate debt issuances, we would expect the economic terms of the securities to be more favorable to you. We determined the value of the embedded derivatives in the securities by reference to our or our affiliates' internal pricing models. These pricing models consider certain assumptions and variables, which can include volatility and interest rates. Different pricing models and assumptions could provide valuations for the securities that are different from our estimated initial value. These pricing models rely in part on certain forecasts about future events, which may prove to be incorrect. The estimated initial value does not represent a minimum price at which we or any of our affiliates would be willing to purchase your securities in the secondary market (if any exists) at any time.
The Price Of Your Securities In The Secondary Market, If Any, Immediately After The Pricing Date Is Expected To Be Less Than The Original Offering Price.
The original offering price takes into account certain costs. These costs include the underwriting discount, our hedge counterparty's projected hedging profits (which may or may not be realized) for assuming risks inherent in hedging our obligations under the securities and the costs associated with structuring and hedging our obligations under the securities. These costs, except for the underwriting discount, will be used or retained by us or one of our affiliates. If you were to sell your securities in the secondary market, if any, the price you would receive for your securities may be less than the price you paid for them because secondary market prices will not take into account these costs. The price of your securities in the secondary market, if any, at any time after issuance will vary based on many factors, including the price of the Underlying Stock and changes in market conditions, and cannot be predicted with accuracy. The securities are not designed to be short-term trading instruments, and you should, therefore, be able and willing to hold the securities to maturity. Any sale of the securities prior to maturity could result in a loss to you.
If HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. Or The Agent Were To Repurchase Your Securities Immediately After The Issue Date, The Price You Receive May Be Higher Than The Estimated Initial Value Of The Securities.
Assuming that all relevant factors remain constant after the issue date, the price at which HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. or the agent may initially buy or sell the securities in the secondary market, if any, and the value used for customer account statements, if any, may exceed the estimated initial value on the pricing date for a temporary period expected to be approximately 3 months after the issue date. This temporary price difference may exist because, in its discretion, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. or the agent may elect to effectively reimburse to investors a portion of the estimated hedging cost and other costs in connection with the securities that will no longer be incurred over the term of the securities. This discretionary election will be made, and the temporary reimbursement period will be determined, on the basis of a number of factors, including the tenor of the securities and any agreement we may have with the distributors of the securities. The amount of the estimated costs which may be effectively reimbursed to investors in this way may not be allocated ratably throughout the reimbursement period, and such reimbursement may be discontinued at any time, or the duration of the reimbursement period may be shortened after the issue date of the securities based on changes in market conditions and other factors that cannot be predicted.
The Value Of The Securities Prior To Maturity Or Automatic Call Will Be Affected By Numerous Factors, Some Of Which Are Related In Complex Ways.
The value of the securities prior to maturity or automatic call will be affected by the then-current price of the Underlying Stock, interest rates at that time and a number of other factors, some of which are interrelated in complex ways. The effect of any one factor may be offset or magnified by the effect of another factor. The following factors, among others, are expected to affect the value of the securities: performance of the Underlying Stock; volatility of the Underlying Stock; economic and other conditions generally; interest rates; dividend yields; our credit ratings or credit spreads; and time remaining to maturity. When we refer to the "value" of your security, we mean the value you could receive for your security if you are able to sell it in the open market before the stated maturity date.
PS-10
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
The value of the securities will also be limited by the automatic call feature because if the securities are automatically called, you will not receive the coupon payments that would have accrued had the securities been called on a later call date or held until the stated maturity date. You should understand that the impact of one of the factors specified above, such as a change in interest rates, may offset some or all of any change in the value of the securities attributable to another factor, such as a change in the price of the Underlying Stock. Because numerous factors are expected to affect the value of the securities, changes in the prices of the Underlying Stock may not result in a comparable change in the value of the securities.
The Securities Will Not Be Listed On Any Securities Exchange And We Do Not Expect A Trading Market For The Securities To Develop.
The securities will not be listed on any securities exchange. Although Wells Fargo Securities and/or its affiliates may purchase the securities from holders, they are not obligated to do so and are not required to make a market for the securities. There can be no assurance that a secondary market will develop for the securities. Because we do not expect that any market makers will participate in a secondary market for the securities, the price at which you may be able to sell your securities is likely to depend on the price, if any, at which Wells Fargo Securities and/or its affiliates are willing to buy your securities.
If a secondary market does exist, it may be limited. Accordingly, there may be a limited number of buyers if you decide to sell your securities prior to maturity or automatic call. This may affect the price you receive upon such sale. Consequently, you should be willing to hold the securities to maturity or automatic call.
Risks Relating To The Underlying Stock
The Securities Will Be Subject To Single Stock Risk.
The price of the Underlying Stock can rise or fall sharply due to factors specific to that Underlying Stock and its issuer, such as stock price volatility, earnings, financial conditions, corporate, industry and regulatory developments, management changes and decisions and other events, as well as general market factors, such as general stock market volatility and prices, interest rates and economic and political conditions.
The Maturity Payment Amount And Whether The Securities Are Automatically Called Will Depend Upon The Performance Of The Underlying Stock And Therefore The Securities Are Subject To The Following Risks, Each As Discussed In More Detail In The Accompanying Product Supplement.
| · | Investing In The Securities Is Not The Same As Investing In The Underlying Stock. Investing in the securities is not equivalent to investing in the Underlying Stock. As an investor in the securities, your return will not reflect the return you would realize if you actually owned and held the Underlying Stock for a period similar to the term of the securities because you will not receive any dividend payments, distributions or any other payments paid on the Underlying Stock. As a holder of the securities, you will not have any voting rights or any other rights that holders of the Underlying Stock would have. |
| · | Historical Prices Of The Underlying Stock Should Not Be Taken As An Indication Of Its Future Performance During The Term Of The Securities. |
| · | The Securities May Become Linked To The Common Stock Of A Company Other Than The Original Underlying Stock Issuer. |
| · | We, The Agent And Our Respective Affiliates Cannot Control Actions By The Underlying Stock Issuer. |
| · | We, The Agent And Our Respective Affiliates Have No Affiliation With The Underlying Stock Issuer And Have Not Independently Verified Its Public Disclosure Of Information. |
| · | You Have Limited Anti-dilution Protection. |
Risks Relating To Conflicts Of Interest
Our Economic Interests And Those Of Any Dealer Participating In The Offering Of Securities Will Potentially Be Adverse To Your Interests.
You should be aware of the following ways in which our economic interests and those of any dealer participating in the distribution of the securities, which we refer to as a "participating dealer," will potentially be adverse to your interests as an investor in the securities. In engaging in certain of the activities described below and as discussed in more detail in the accompanying product supplement, our affiliates or any participating dealer or its affiliates may take actions that may adversely affect the value of and your return on the securities, and in so doing they will have no obligation to consider your interests as an investor in the securities. Our affiliates or any participating dealer or its affiliates may realize a profit from these activities even if investors do not receive a favorable investment return on the securities.
| · | The calculation agent is our affiliate and may be required to make discretionary judgments that affect the return you receive on the securities. HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., which is our affiliate, will be the calculation agent for the securities. As calculation agent, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. will determine any values of the Underlying Stock and make any other determinations necessary to calculate any payments on the securities. In making these determinations, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. may be required to make discretionary judgments that may adversely affect any payments on the |
PS-11
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| securities. See the sections entitled "General Terms of the Securities-Certain Terms for Securities Linked to an Underlying Stock-Market Disruption Events" and "-Adjustment Events" in the accompanying product supplement. In making these discretionary judgments, the fact that HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. is our affiliate may cause it to have economic interests that are adverse to your interests as an investor in the securities, and HSBC Securities (USA) Inc.'s determinations as calculation agent may adversely affect your return on the securities. |
| · | Research reports by our affiliates or any participating dealer or its affiliates may be inconsistent with an investment in the securities and may adversely affect the price of the Underlying Stock. |
| · | Business activities of our affiliates or any participating dealer or its affiliates with the Underlying Stock Issuer may adversely affect the price of the Underlying Stock. |
| · | Hedging activities by our affiliates or any participating dealer or its affiliates may adversely affect the price of the Underlying Stock. |
| · | Trading activities by our affiliates or any participating dealer or its affiliates may adversely affect the price of the Underlying Stock. |
| · | A participating dealer or its affiliates may realize hedging profits projected by its proprietary pricing models in addition to any selling concession and/or any fee, creating a further incentive for the participating dealer to sell the securities to you. |
| · | An affiliate of HSBC has a minority equity interest in the owner of an electronic platform, through which we may make available certain structured investments offering materials. |
Risks Relating To Tax
The U.S. Federal Tax Consequences Of An Investment In The Securities Are Unclear.
There is no direct legal authority as to the proper tax treatment of the securities, and therefore significant aspects of the tax treatment of the securities are uncertain as to both the timing and character of any inclusion in income in respect of the securities.
For a discussion of the U.S. federal income and estate tax consequences of your investment in a security, please see the discussion under "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations" herein and the discussion under "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations" in the accompanying prospectus supplement.
PS-12
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| Hypothetical Returns |
If the securities are automatically called:
If the securities are automatically called prior to maturity, you will receive the face amount of your securities plus a final coupon payment on the call settlement date. In the event the securities are automatically called, your total return on the securities will equal the coupon payments received prior to the call settlement date and the coupon payment received on the call settlement date.
If the securities are not automatically called:
If the securities are not automatically called prior to maturity, the following table illustrates, for a range of hypothetical performance factors, the hypothetical value of the maturity payment amount payable at maturity per security (excluding the final coupon payment). For purposes of the below table, the "performance factor" means the ending price expressed as a percentage of the starting price (i.e., the ending price divided by the starting price).
| Hypothetical Performance Factor |
Hypothetical Value of the Maturity Payment Amount Per Security* |
||
| 175.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 160.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 150.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 140.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 130.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 120.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 110.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 100.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 90.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 80.00% | $1,000.00 | ||
| 79.00% | $987.50 | ||
| 70.00% | $875.00 | ||
| 60.00% | $750.00 | ||
| 50.00% | $625.00 | ||
| 40.00% | $500.00 | ||
| 30.00% | $375.00 | ||
| 25.00% | $312.50 | ||
| 0.00% | $0.00 |
*If the ending price is less than the threshold price, you will receive on the stated maturity date per security a number of shares of the Underlying Stock equal to the share delivery amount. Fractional shares will be paid in cash. For purposes of the table above and the examples below, the value of the shares received is calculated based on the ending price as of the final calculation day. The actual value of the shares you receive at maturity will depend on the closing value of the Underlying Stock on the stated maturity date, which may be lower than its value on the final calculation day.
The above figures do not take into account coupon payments received during the term of the securities. As evidenced above, in no event will you have a positive return based solely on the maturity payment amount (excluding the final coupon payment); any positive return will be based solely on the coupon payments received during the term of the securities.
The above figures are for purposes of illustration only and may have been rounded for ease of analysis. If the securities are not automatically called prior to stated maturity, the actual value of what you receive at stated maturity will depend on the actual ending price and, if you receive shares, the closing price of the Underlying Stock on the stated maturity date.
PS-13
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| Hypothetical Maturity Payment Amount |
Set forth below are examples of calculations of the hypothetical value of the maturity payment amount payable or deliverable at stated maturity, assuming that the securities have not been automatically called prior to stated maturity and assuming the hypothetical starting price, threshold price and ending prices of the Underlying Stock indicated in the examples. The examples below also assume a hypothetical share delivery amount equal to 12.50000, which is equal to the face amount divided by the hypothetical threshold price multiplied by an adjustment factor of 1.0 (assuming the adjustment factor remains constant over the term of the securities). The terms used for purposes of these hypothetical examples do not represent any actual starting price or threshold price. The hypothetical starting price of $100.00 for the Underlying Stock has been chosen for illustrative purposes only and does not represent the actual starting price for the Underlying Stock. The actual starting price and threshold price for the Underlying Stock are set forth under "Terms of the Securities" above. For historical data regarding the actual closing prices of the Underlying Stock, see the historical information provided below. These examples are for purposes of illustration only and the values used in the examples may have been rounded for ease of analysis.
Example 1. The ending price is greater than the starting price, the maturity payment amount is equal to the face amount of your securities at maturity and you receive a final coupon payment:
| IBM | |
| Hypothetical starting price : | $100.00 |
| Hypothetical ending price: | $145.00 |
| Hypothetical threshold price: | $80.00 |
Since the hypothetical ending price is greater than its hypothetical threshold price, the maturity payment amount would be a cash payment per security equal to the face amount. Although the hypothetical ending price is significantly greater than its hypothetical starting price in this scenario, the maturity payment amount will not exceed the face amount.
In addition to the coupon payments received during the term of the securities, at maturity you would receive $1,000 per security as well as a final coupon payment.
Example 2. The ending price is less than the starting price but greater than the threshold price, the maturity payment amount is equal to the face amount of your securities at maturity and you receive a final coupon payment:
| IBM | |
| Hypothetical starting price : | $100.00 |
| Hypothetical ending price: | $95.00 |
| Hypothetical threshold price: | $80.00 |
Since the hypothetical ending price is less than its hypothetical starting price, but not by more than 20%, you would receive the face amount of your securities at maturity.
In addition to the coupon payments received during the term of the securities, at maturity you would receive $1,000 per security as well as a final coupon payment.
Example 3. The ending price is less than the threshold price, the maturity payment amount is a number of shares of the Underlier equal to the share delivery amount:
| IBM | |
| Hypothetical starting price : | $100.00 |
| Hypothetical ending price: | $50.00 |
| Hypothetical threshold price: | $80.00 |
| Hypothetical share delivery amount: | 12.50000 |
Since the hypothetical ending price is less than the hypothetical threshold price, the maturity payment amount would be a number of shares of the Underlying Stock equal to the share delivery amount.
In this scenario, in addition to the coupon payments received during the term of the securities, on the stated maturity date we will pay you a final coupon payment and deliver to you a number of shares of the Underlying Stock equal to the share delivery amount for every security you hold and will pay cash based on the ending price for any fractional shares. In this scenario, the value of the shares you receive on the stated maturity date, based on the ending price, would be $625.00*.
*The value of shares received at maturity depends on the closing value of the Underlying Stock on the stated maturity date, rather than the final calculation day, and is expected to be worth less than the face amount or may be worthless.
PS-14
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
These examples illustrate that you will not participate in any appreciation of the Underlying Stock, but will be exposed to a decrease in the Underlying Stock if the ending price is less than the threshold price.
To the extent that the actual starting price, threshold price, share delivery amount and ending price differ from the values assumed above, the results indicated above would be different.
PS-15
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| The Underlying Stock |
International Business Machines Corporation
International Business Machines Corporation is a technology company that provides software, consulting services, hybrid cloud infrastructure and financing. Information filed by the company with the SEC can be located by reference to its SEC file number: 001-02360, or its CIK Code: 0000051143. This Underlying Stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "IBM."
Historical Data
We obtained the closing prices of IBM in the graph below from Bloomberg Finance L.P. ("Bloomberg") without independent verification. The historical performance of IBM should not be taken as an indication of future performance, and no assurances can be given as to the closing price of IBM on any call date or the final calculation day. We cannot give you assurance that the performance of IBM will result in the return of any of your investment.
The following graph sets forth stock closing prices of IBM for the period from January 1, 2021 to May 29, 2026. The closing price of IBM on May 29, 2026 was $297.80.
Historical Performance of IBM
Source: Bloomberg
PS-16
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations |
You should carefully consider, among other things, the matters set forth in the section "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations" in the accompanying prospectus supplement. The following discussion summarizes the U.S. federal income and estate tax consequences of the beneficial ownership and disposition of the securities. This summary supplements the section "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations" in the accompanying prospectus supplement and supersedes it to the extent inconsistent therewith.
There is no direct legal authority as to the proper tax treatment of the securities, and therefore significant aspects of the tax treatment of the securities are uncertain as to both the timing and character of any inclusion in income in respect of the securities. Under one approach, each security should be treated as a put option written by you (the "Put Option") with respect to the Underlying Stock that permits us to "cash settle" the Put Option and a deposit with us of cash in an amount equal to the Principal Amount of the security (the "Deposit") to secure your potential obligation under the Put Option, as described in the accompanying prospectus supplement under the heading "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations - Tax Treatment of U.S Holders - Certain Notes Treated as a Put Option and a Deposit or an Executory Contract - Certain Notes Treated as a Put Option and a Deposit." We intend to treat each security consistent with this approach, and we intend to treat the Deposit as a non-contingent debt instrument for U.S. federal income tax purposes. By purchasing the securities, you agree (in the absence of an administrative determination or judicial ruling to the contrary) to treat each security as consisting of the Deposit and the Put Option for all U.S. federal income tax purposes. Subject to the limitations described therein, and based on certain factual representations received from us, in the opinion of our special U.S. tax counsel, Mayer Brown LLP, it is reasonable to treat a security as consisting of the Deposit and the Put Option for all U.S. federal income tax purposes. Because there are no statutory provisions, regulations, published rulings or judicial decisions addressing the characterization for U.S. federal income tax purposes of securities with terms that are substantially the same as those of the securities, other characterizations and treatments are possible and the timing and character of income in respect of the securities might differ materially and adversely from the treatment described above. For example, securities that have a term of one year or less could be treated as short-term debt instruments for U.S. federal income tax purposes subject to the treatment described under the heading "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations - Tax Treatment of U.S. Holders - U.S. Federal Income Tax Treatment of the Notes as Indebtedness for U.S. Federal Income Tax Purposes - Short-Term Notes" in the accompanying prospectus supplement. Securities that have a term of more than one year could be treated as debt instruments that are "contingent payment debt instruments" for U.S. federal income tax purposes subject to the treatment described under the heading "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations - Tax Treatment of U.S. Holders - U.S. Federal Income Tax Treatment of the Notes as Indebtedness for U.S. Federal Income Tax Purposes - Contingent Notes" in the accompanying prospectus supplement.
We will not attempt to ascertain whether the Underlying Stock would be treated as a passive foreign investment company ("PFIC") or United States real property holding corporation ("USRPHC"), both as defined for U.S. federal income tax purposes. If the Underlying Stock were so treated, certain adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences might apply. You should refer to information filed with the SEC and other authorities by the Underlying Stock and consult your tax advisor regarding the possible consequences to you if the Underlying Stock is or becomes a PFIC or a USRPHC.
U.S. Holders. Please see the discussion under the heading "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations - Tax Treatment of U.S Holders - Certain Notes Treated as a Put Option and a Deposit or an Executory Contract - Certain Notes Treated as a Put Option and a Deposit" in the accompanying prospectus supplement for further discussion of U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to U.S. holders (as defined in the accompanying prospectus supplement). If upon maturity of the securities, you receive shares of the Underlying Stock and cash in lieu of any fractional Underlying Stock, you should generally recognize capital gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount of cash received in lieu of any fractional Underlying Stock and the pro rata portion of your tax basis in the securities that is allocable to such fractional Underlying Stock, based on the amount of cash received and the fair market value of the Underlying Stock received. Although no assurances can be provided in this regard, you may generally expect not to recognize any gain or loss with respect to any Underlying Stock received. You should generally have a basis in the Underlying Stock equal to your tax basis in the securities, other than any amount allocated to a fractional Underlying Stock. The holding period for such Underlying Stock should start on the day after receipt. For purposes of dividing the annual coupon rate of 10.50% on the securities among interest on the Deposit and premium on the Put Option, 4.13% constitutes interest on the Deposit and 6.37% constitutes premium on the Put Option. If the securities are redeemed prior to maturity, you should recognize the total Put Premium received as short-term capital gain at that time.
Non-U.S. Holders. Please see the discussion under the heading "U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations - Tax Treatment of Non-U.S. Holders" in the accompanying prospectus supplement for further discussion of U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to non-U.S. holders (as defined in the accompanying prospectus supplement). Because the U.S. federal income tax treatment (including the applicability of withholding) of the coupon payments is uncertain, the entire amount of the coupon payments will be subject to U.S. federal income tax withholding at a 30% rate (or at a lower rate under an applicable income tax treaty). We, our agents, including WFS, or the applicable paying agent, will not pay any additional amounts in respect of such withholding.
Under current law, while the matter is not entirely clear, individual non-U.S. holders, and entities whose property is potentially includible in those individuals' gross estates for U.S. federal estate tax purposes (for example, a trust funded by such an individual and with respect to which the individual has retained certain interests or powers), should note that, absent an applicable treaty benefit, the securities are likely to be treated as U.S. situs property, subject to U.S. federal estate tax. These individuals and entities should consult their tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal estate tax consequences of investing in the securities.
PS-17
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
A "dividend equivalent" payment is treated as a dividend from sources within the United States and such payments generally would be subject to a 30% U.S. withholding tax (which may be reduced by an applicable income tax treaty) if paid to a non-U.S. holder under Section 871(m) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Section 871(m)"). Under U.S. Treasury Department regulations, payments (including deemed payments) with respect to equity-linked instruments ("ELIs") that are "specified ELIs" may be treated as dividend equivalents if such specified ELIs reference an interest in an "underlying security," which is generally any interest in an entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes if a payment with respect to such interest could give rise to a U.S. source dividend. However, Internal Revenue Service guidance provides that withholding on dividend equivalent payments will not apply to specified ELIs that are not "delta-one" instruments and that are issued before January 1, 2027. Based on the Issuer's determination that the securities are not delta-one instruments and, therefore, non-U.S. holders should not be subject to withholding on dividend equivalent payments, if any, under the securities. A determination that the securities are not subject to Section 871(m) is not binding on the Internal Revenue Service, and the Internal Revenue Service may disagree with this treatment. Moreover, Section 871(m) is complex and its application may depend on your particular circumstances, including your other transactions. Furthermore, the application of Section 871(m) will depend on our determinations on the date the terms of the securities are set. It is possible that the securities could be treated as deemed reissued for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the occurrence of certain events affecting the Underlying Stock or the securities, and following such occurrence the securities could be treated as delta-one specified ELIs subject to withholding on dividend equivalent payments. Non-U.S. holders that enter, or have entered, into other transactions in respect of the Underlying Stock or the securities should consult their tax advisors as to the application of the dividend equivalent withholding tax in the context of the securities and their other transactions. If any payments are treated as dividend equivalents subject to withholding, we, our agents, including WFS, or the applicable paying agent, would be entitled to withhold taxes without being required to pay any additional amounts with respect to amounts so withheld.
PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS OF SECURITIES SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS AS TO THE FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, AND OTHER TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF THE OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF SECURITIES.
PS-18
|
Market Linked Securities-Auto-Callable with Fixed Coupon and Geared Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the Capital Stock of International Business Machines Corporation due June 3, 2027 |
| Validity Of The Securities |
In the opinion of Mayer Brown LLP, as counsel to the Issuer, when this pricing supplement has been attached to, and duly notated on, the master note that represents the securities pursuant to the Senior Indenture referred to in the prospectus supplement dated February 21, 2024, and issued and paid for as contemplated herein, the securities offered by this pricing supplement will be valid, binding and enforceable obligations of the Issuer, entitled to the benefits of the Senior Indenture, subject to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting creditors' rights generally, concepts of reasonableness and equitable principles of general applicability (including, without limitation, concepts of good faith, fair dealing and the lack of bad faith). This opinion is given as of the date hereof and is limited to the laws of the State of New York, the Maryland General Corporation Law (including the statutory provisions, all applicable provisions of the Maryland Constitution and the reported judicial decisions interpreting the foregoing) and the federal laws of the United States of America. This opinion is subject to customary assumptions about the trustee's authorization, execution and delivery of the Senior Indenture and the genuineness of signatures and to such counsel's reliance on the Issuer and other sources as to certain factual matters, all as stated in the legal opinion dated February 21, 2024, which has been filed as Exhibit 5.3 to the Issuer's registration statement on Form S-3 dated February 21, 2024.
PS-19