Predictor data structure for use in pipelined processing

A method of facilitating processing within a processing environment, the method comprising:

• using a predictor data structure for pipelined processing by a pipelined processor, said predictor data structure comprising a predicted address to be used in return from execution of a selected instruction, and a predicted operating state associated with the predicted address;
• based on determining a selected return instruction is to be executed, obtaining from the predictor data structure the predicted address to which processing is to be returned;
• and
• based on determining the selected return instruction is to be executed, predicting a transitional operating state to be entered based on the predicted operating state stored in the predictor data structure, wherein at least one of the predicted address and the predicted transitional operating state are to be used to validate execution of the selected return instruction.