Dividend Declaration

Banco Santander Central Hispano SA
19 January 2001



                           Third Dividend

As from 31st January 2001, Banco Santander Central Hispano will pay a dividend
on all currently outstanding ordinary shares as follows:


         GROSS DIVIDEND      18% WITHHOLDING      NET DIVIDEND
                                   TAX       

         0.066111 Euros        0.0119 Euros      0.054211 Euros
          (11 Pesetas)        (1.98 Pesetas)     (9.02 Pesetas)


The dividend is the third, payable on a quarterly basis, charged to year 2000
earnings.