Goldman Sachs Group Inc. reported record earnings for both the fourth quarter and 2005 overall.

The venerable investment bank reported net earnings of US$5.63 billion for the year ended November 25. Earnings per share were up 26% from 2004.

Fourth quarter net earnings were US$1.63 billion.

The firm says that it generated record net revenues, net earnings and diluted earnings per common share in the year. Investment banking generated net revenues of US$3.67 billion, its best annual performance in four years. The firm also ranked first in both worldwide announced and completed mergers and acquisitions as well as worldwide equity and equity-related offerings.

Its Fixed Income, Currency and Commodities division generated record net revenues of US$8.48 billion, 16% higher than the previous record set in 2004. Equities generated record net revenues of US$5.65 billion, 21% higher than 2004. Asset management achieved record net revenues of US$2.96 billion, 16% higher than the previous record set in 2004. And, its Securities Services group achieved record net revenues of US$1.79 billion, 38% higher than the previous record set in 2004.

“We are very pleased to report another record year for the firm, with virtually every area producing strong results,” said Henry Paulson Jr., chairman and chief executive officer. “Looking forward, we are optimistic that global growth will continue to create opportunities for our clients, and we will remain intensely focused on serving their needs.”