SAN Banco Santander SA

DESCRIPTION OF THE NOTES

The following is a summary of certain terms of the Notes. It supplements the description of the general terms of the debt securities of any series we may issue contained in the accompanying prospectus under the heading “Description of Debt Securities”. If there is any inconsistency between the following summary and the description in the accompanying prospectus, the following summary governs.

The Notes

2023 Fixed Rate Notes

The 2023 Fixed Rate Notes will be issued in an initial aggregate principal amount of $1,000,000,000 and will mature on February 23, 2023. From and including the expected date of issuance, which is October 23, 2017, interest will accrue on the 2023 Fixed Rate Notes at a rate of 3.125% per annum. Interest will accrue from October 23, 2017. Interest will be payable semi-annually in arrears on February 23 and August 23 of each year, commencing on February 23, 2018 (therefore, there will be a short first interest period from, and including, the date of issuance to, but excluding, February 23, 2018), up to and including the maturity date or any date of earlier redemption. Interest will be paid to holders of record of the 2023 Fixed Rate Notes in respect of the principal amount thereof outstanding 15 calendar days preceding the relevant Interest Payment Date, whether or not a Business Day.

Interest on the 2023 Fixed Rate Notes will be calculated on the basis of a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months and, in the case of an incomplete month, on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed in such month. If any scheduled Interest Payment Date is not a Business Day, we will pay interest on the next Business Day, but interest on that payment will not accrue during the period from and after the scheduled Interest Payment Date. If the scheduled maturity date or date of redemption or repayment is not a Business Day, we may pay interest and principal on the next succeeding Business Day, but interest on that payment will not accrue during the period from and after the scheduled maturity date or date of redemption or repayment.

2028 Fixed Rate Notes

The 2028 Fixed Rate Notes will be issued in an initial aggregate principal amount of $1,000,000,000 and will mature on February 23, 2028. From and including the expected date of issuance, which is October 23, 2017, interest will accrue on the 2028 Fixed Rate Notes at a rate of 3.800% per annum. Interest will accrue from October 23, 2017. Interest will be payable semi-annually in arrears on February 23 and August 23 of each year, commencing on February 23, 2018 (therefore, there will be a short first interest period from, and including, the date of issuance to, but excluding, February 23, 2018), up to and including the maturity date or any date of earlier redemption. Interest will be paid to holders of record of the 2028 Fixed Rate Notes in respect of the principal amount thereof outstanding 15 calendar days preceding the relevant Interest Payment Date, whether or not a Business Day.

Interest on the 2028 Fixed Rate Notes will be calculated on the basis of a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months and, in the case of an incomplete month, on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed in such month. If any scheduled Interest Payment Date is not a Business Day, we will pay interest on the next Business Day, but interest on that payment will not accrue during the period from and after the scheduled Interest Payment Date. If the scheduled maturity date or date of redemption or repayment is not a Business Day, we may pay interest and principal on the next succeeding Business Day, but interest on that payment will not accrue during the period from and after the scheduled maturity date or date of redemption or repayment.

Floating Rate Notes

The Trustee, or such other person appointed by us, will initially act as Calculation Agent for the Floating Rate Notes.

The Floating Rate Notes will be issued in an initial aggregate principal amount of $500,000,000 and will mature on February 23, 2023. From and including the expected date of issuance, which is October 23, 2017, interest will accrue on the Floating Rate Notes at a rate determined in the manner provided below, payable quarterly in arrears on February 23, May 23, August 23 and November 23 of each year and on the maturity date or any redemption date of the Floating Rate Notes (each, a “Floating Rate Notes Interest Payment Date”), beginning on November 23, 2017 (therefore, there will be a short first interest period from, and including, the date of issuance to, but excluding, November 23, 2017). Interest will be paid to holders of record of the Floating Rate Notes in respect of the principal amount thereof outstanding 15 calendar days preceding the relevant Floating Rate Notes Interest Payment Date, whether or not a Business Day; provided , however , that interest payable on the maturity date or any redemption date shall be payable to the person to whom the principal of such Floating Rate Notes shall be payable.

If any Floating Rate Notes Interest Payment Date (other than the maturity date or any redemption date) falls on a day that is not a Business Day, the Floating Rate Notes Interest Payment Date will be postponed to the next succeeding Business Day and interest will accrue to but excluding such Floating Rate Notes Interest Payment Date, except that if such Business Day falls in the next succeeding calendar month, the applicable Floating Rate Notes Interest Payment Date will be the immediately preceding Business Day. If the maturity date or any redemption date of the Floating Rate Notes falls on a day that is not a Business Day, the payment of principal, premium and Additional Amounts, if any, and interest, if any, otherwise payable on such date will be postponed to the next succeeding Business Day, and no interest on such payment will accrue from and after the maturity date or such redemption date, as applicable.

The interest rate will be reset quarterly on February 23, May 23, August 23 and November 23 of each year, beginning on November 23, 2017 through November 23, 2022 (each an “Interest Reset Date”). However, if any Interest Reset Date would otherwise be a day that is not a Business Day, such Interest Reset Date will be the next succeeding day that is a Business Day, except that if the next succeeding Business Day falls in the next succeeding calendar month, the applicable Interest Reset Date will be the immediately preceding Business Day.

The interest rate in effect during the initial interest period from, and including, October 23, 2017 to, but excluding, November 23, 2017 will be equal to Three-Month USD LIBOR, determined by the Calculation Agent two London Business Days prior to October 23, 2017, plus 109 basis points.

A “London Business Day” is a day on which dealings in deposits in U.S. dollars are transacted in the London interbank market and the Trans-European Automated Real-time Gross Settlement Express Transfer system (the “TARGET2 System”), or any successor thereto, is open for business.

After the initial interest period, the interest periods will be the periods from and including an Interest Reset Date to but excluding the immediately succeeding Interest Reset Date, except that the final interest period will be the period from and including the Interest Reset Date immediately preceding the maturity date to but excluding the maturity date (each a “Floating Rate Notes Interest Period”). The interest rate per year for the Floating Rate Notes in any Floating Rate Notes Interest Period (which, for the avoidance of doubt, does not include the initial interest period) will be equal to Three-Month USD LIBOR plus 109 basis points (the “Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate”), as determined by the Calculation Agent. The Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate in effect for the 15 calendar days prior to any redemption date earlier than the maturity date will be the Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate in effect on the 15th day preceding such earlier redemption date.

The Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate will be limited to the maximum rate permitted by New York law, as the same may be modified by United States law of general application.

Upon the request of any holder of Floating Rate Notes, the Calculation Agent will provide the Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate then in effect and, if determined, the Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate that will become effective on the next Interest Reset Date.

The Calculation Agent will determine Three-Month USD LIBOR for each Interest Period on the second London Business Day prior to the first day of such Interest Period (the “Interest Determination Date”).

“Three-Month USD LIBOR” with respect to any Interest Determination Date, will be the offered rate for deposits of U.S. dollars having a maturity of three months that appears on “Reuters Page LIBOR01” at approximately 11:00 a.m., London time, on such Interest Determination Date. If on an Interest Determination Date, such rate does not appear on the “Reuters Page LIBOR01” as of 11:00 a.m., London time, or if “Reuters Page LIBOR01” is not available on such date, the Calculation Agent will obtain such rate from Bloomberg L.P.’s page “BBAM.”

If no offered rate appears on “Reuters Page LIBOR01” or Bloomberg L.P. page “BBAM” on an Interest Determination Date, LIBOR will be determined for such Interest Determination Date on the basis of the rates at approximately 11:00 a.m., London time, on such Interest Determination Date at which deposits in U.S. dollars are offered to prime banks in the London inter-bank market by four major banks in such market selected by Banco Santander, for a term of three months commencing on the applicable Interest Reset Date and in a principal amount equal to an amount that in the judgment of the Calculation Agent is representative for a single transaction in U.S. dollars in such market at such time. The Calculation Agent will request the principal London office of each of such banks to provide a quotation of its rate. If at least two such quotations are provided, Three-Month USD LIBOR for such Interest Period will be the arithmetic mean of such quotations. If fewer than two such quotations are provided, Three-Month USD LIBOR for such Interest Period will be the arithmetic mean of the rates quoted at approximately 11:00 a.m. in New York City on such Interest Determination Date by three major banks in New York City, selected by Banco Santander, for loans in U.S. dollars to leading European banks, for a term of three months commencing on the applicable Interest Reset Date and in a principal amount equal to an amount that in the judgment of the Calculation Agent is representative for a single transaction in U.S. dollars in such market at such time; provided, however, that if the banks so selected are not quoting as mentioned above, the then-existing Three-Month USD LIBOR rate will remain in effect for such Interest Period, or, if none, the interest rate will be the initial interest rate.

All percentages resulting from any calculation of any Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate will be rounded, if necessary, to the nearest one hundred thousandth of a percentage point, with five one-millionths of a percentage point rounded upward (e.g., 9.876545% (or .09876545) would be rounded to 9.87655% (or .0987655)), and all U.S. dollar amounts will be rounded to the nearest cent, with one-half cent being rounded upward. The amount of interest payable in respect of each Floating Rate Note will be calculated by applying the applicable Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate for such Interest Period to the outstanding principal amount of such Floating Rate Notes, multiplying the product by the actual number of days in such Interest Period and dividing by 360. Each calculation of the Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate by the Calculation Agent will (in the absence of manifest error) be final and binding on us, the trustee and the noteholders of the Floating Rate Notes.

Promptly upon such determination, the Calculation Agent will notify us and the Trustee (if the Calculation Agent is not the Trustee) of the Floating Rate Notes Interest Rate for the new Floating Rate Notes Interest Period.

General

The Notes will constitute a separate series of senior non preferred debt securities issued under an indenture dated as of April 11, 2017 (the “Base Indenture”) between us as Issuer and The Bank of New York Mellon acting through its London Branch, as trustee (the “Trustee”), as amended by a second supplemental indenture to be dated as of October 23, 2017 (the “Second Supplemental Indenture”) between us as Issuer and the Trustee. Book-entry interests in the Notes will be issued in denominations of $200,000 and integral multiples of $200,000 in excess thereof.

With respect to the Notes, the term “Business Day” means any day, other than Saturday or Sunday, that is not a Legal Holiday nor a day on which banking institutions are authorized or required by law, regulation or executive order to close in the City of New York or London nor a day when the Trans-European Automated Real-time Gross Settlement Express Transfer system (the “TARGET2 System”), or any successor thereto, is closed for business.

The principal corporate trust office of the Trustee in London, United Kingdom, is designated as the principal paying agent. We may at any time designate additional paying agents or rescind the designation of paying agents or approve a change in the office through which any paying agent acts.

We will issue the Notes in fully registered form. The Notes will be represented by one or more global securities deposited with a custodian for, and registered in the name of a nominee of, DTC. You may hold a beneficial interest in the Notes through the DTC and its participants, including Euroclear and Clearstream. The Underwriters expect to deliver the Notes through the facilities of the DTC on or about October 23, 2017. For a more detailed summary of the form of the Notes and settlement and clearance arrangements, you should read “ Description of Certain Provisions Relating to the Debt Securities and Contingent Convertible Capital Securities—Form of Securities; Book-Entry System ” in the accompanying prospectus. Indirect holders trading their beneficial interests in the Notes through the DTC must trade in the DTC’s same-day funds settlement system and pay in immediately available funds. Secondary market trading will occur in the ordinary way following the applicable rules and operating procedures of Euroclear and Clearstream Luxembourg.

Definitive debt securities will only be issued in limited circumstances described under “ Description of Certain Provisions Relating to the Debt Securities and Contingent Convertible Capital Securities—Form of Securities; Book-Entry System ” in the accompanying prospectus.

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Payment of principal of and interest on the Notes, so long as the Notes are represented by global securities, will be made in immediately available funds. Beneficial interests in the global securities will trade in the same-day funds settlement system of the DTC, and secondary market trading activity in such interests will therefore settle in same-day funds.

Status of the Notes

The payment obligations of Banco Santander under the Notes will constitute direct, unconditional, unsubordinated and unsecured senior non preferred obligations ( créditos ordinarios no preferentes ) of Banco Santander and, in accordance with Additional Provision 14.2º of Law 11/2015, but subject to any other ranking that may apply as a result of any mandatory provision of law (or otherwise), upon the insolvency of Banco Santander (and unless they qualify as subordinated claims ( créditos subordinados ) pursuant to Article 92.1º or 92.3º to 92.7º of the Spanish Insolvency Law), rank (i)  pari passu among themselves and with any Senior Non Preferred Liabilities, (ii) junior to the Senior Higher Priority Liabilities (and, accordingly, upon the insolvency of Banco Santander, the claims in respect of the Notes will be met after payment in full of the Senior Higher Priority Liabilities) and (iii) senior to any present and future subordinated obligations ( créditos subordinados ) of Banco Santander in accordance with Article 92 of the Spanish Insolvency Law.

Claims of holders of Notes in respect of interest accrued but unpaid as of the commencement of any insolvency procedure in respect of Banco Santander shall constitute subordinated claims (créditos subordinados) against Banco Santander ranking in accordance with the provisions of Article 92.3º of the Spanish Insolvency Law and no further interest shall accrue from the date of the declaration of insolvency of Banco Santander.

The obligations of Banco Santander under the Notes are subject to the Bail-in Power.

“Law 11/2015” means Law 11/2015 of 18 June on recovery and resolution of credit institutions and investment firms, as amended from time to time.

“Senior Higher Priority Liabilities” means any obligations of Banco Santander which specify their status as ordinary senior instruments and any other unsecured and unsubordinated obligations ( créditos ordinarios ) of Banco Santander, other than the Senior Non Preferred Liabilities.

“Senior Non Preferred Liabilities” means any unsubordinated and unsecured senior non preferred obligations ( créditos ordinarios no preferentes ) of Banco Santander under Additional Provision 14.2º of Law 11/2015, as amended by Royal Decree-Law 11/2017, of 23 June, on urgent measures in financial matters, and as further amended from time to time (including any Notes), and any other obligations which, by law and/or by their terms, and to the extent permitted by Spanish law, rank pari passu with the Senior Non Preferred Liabilities.

Banco Santander agrees with respect to the Notes and each holder of the Notes, by his or her acquisition of the Notes will be deemed to have agreed to the ranking as described herein. Each such holder will be deemed to have irrevocably waived his or her rights of priority which would otherwise be accorded to him or her under the laws of Spain, to the extent necessary to effectuate the ranking provisions of the Notes. In addition, each holder of the Notes by his or her acquisition of such Notes authorizes and directs the Trustee on his or her behalf to take such action as may be necessary or appropriate to effectuate the ranking of such Notes as provided in the Base Indenture and appoints the Trustee his or her attorney-in-fact for any and all such purposes.

Banco Santander expects that upon insolvency, the payment obligations in respect of principal under the Notes would rank pari passu with any obligations in respect of principal of any second ranking senior securities issued by Banco Santander or any other securities with the same ranking issued by Banco Santander.

As of June 30, 2017, Banco Santander had outstanding, €18.41 billion of unsubordinated indebtedness, including €13.24 billion of Senior Higher Priority Liabilities and €5.17 billion of Senior Non Preferred Liabilities (including the second ranking senior securities issued by Banco Santander prior to the entrance into force of Royal Decree-Law 11/2017). Additionally, as of June 30, 2017, Banco Santander had outstanding €14.08 billion of secured indebtedness and €14.72 billion of subordinated indebtedness. Banco Santander subsidiaries had €105.96 billion indebtedness outstanding as of June 30, 2017.

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Early Redemption

Early Redemption for Taxation Reasons

If (i) as a result of any change in the laws or regulations of Spain or of any political subdivision thereof or any authority or agency therein or thereof having power to tax or in the interpretation or administration of any such laws or regulations which becomes effective on or after the date of issue of the Notes, Banco Santander shall determine that (a) Banco Santander would be required to pay Additional Amounts as described in “ Description of Debt Securities—Additional Amounts ” in the accompanying prospectus or (b) Banco Santander would not be entitled to claim a deduction in computing tax liabilities in Spain in respect of any interest to be paid on the next Interest Payment Date on the Notes or the value of such deduction to Banco Santander would be materially reduced or (c) the applicable tax treatment of the Notes of one or several series changes in a material way that was not reasonably foreseeable at the issue date and (ii) such circumstances are evidenced by the delivery by Banco Santander to the Trustee of a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander stating that such circumstances prevail and describing the facts leading thereto, an opinion of independent legal advisers of recognized standing to the effect that such circumstances prevail and a copy of the Supervisory Permission for the redemption, if required, Banco Santander may, at its option and having given no less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice (ending, in the case of the Floating Rate Notes, on a Floating Rate Note Interest Payment Date) to the holders of the affected Notes in accordance with the terms described under “ Description of Debt Securities—Notices ” in the accompanying prospectus (which notice shall be irrevocable), redeem in whole, but not in part, the outstanding Notes of the affected series, in accordance with the requirements of Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time, at their early tax redemption amount, which shall be their principal amount, together with any accrued interest thereon to (but excluding) the date fixed for redemption; provided, however, that (i) in the case of (i)(a) above, no such notice of redemption may be given earlier than 90 days (or, in the case of the Floating Rate Notes a number of days which is equal to the aggregate of the number of days falling within the then current Floating Rate Notes Interest Period plus 60 days) prior to the earliest date on which Banco Santander would be obliged to pay such Additional Amounts were a payment in respect of the affected Notes then due and (ii) redemption for taxation reasons may only take place in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time and subject to Banco Santander obtaining prior Supervisory Permission therefor, if required.

“Applicable Banking Regulations” means at any time the laws, regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies relating to capital adequacy, resolution and/or solvency then applicable to Banco Santander and/or the Group including, without limitation to the generality of the foregoing, those regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies relating to capital adequacy, resolution and/or solvency then in effect of the Regulator (whether or not such requirements, guidelines or policies have the force of law and whether or not they are applied generally or specifically to Banco Santander and/or the Group).

“Regulator” means the European Central Bank, or such other or successor authority exercising primary bank supervisory authority, in each case with respect to prudential matters in relation to Banco Santander and/or the Group.

“Supervisory Permission” means, in relation to any action, such supervisory permission (or, as appropriate, waiver) from the Regulator and/or the Relevant Resolution Authority as is required therefor under Applicable Banking Regulations.

Early Redemption of Notes for a TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event

If following the TLAC/MREL Requirement Date, a TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event has occurred and is continuing and such circumstances are evidenced by the delivery by Banco Santander to the Trustee of a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander stating that such circumstances prevail and describing the facts leading thereto, an opinion of independent legal advisers of recognized standing to the effect that such circumstances prevail and a copy of the Supervisory Permission for the redemption, if required, then Banco Santander may, subject to being permitted by Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations and having given not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice (ending, in the case of the Floating Rate Notes, on a Floating Rate Note Interest Payment Date) to the holders of the affected Notes in accordance with the terms described under “ Description of Debt Securities—Notices ” in the accompanying prospectus (which notice shall be irrevocable), redeem in whole but not in part the outstanding Notes of the affected series at their principal amount, together with any accrued and unpaid interest thereon to (but excluding) the date fixed for redemption.

Redemption for regulatory reasons is subject to Banco Santander obtaining prior Supervisory Permission therefor, if required and may only take place in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time.

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“Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations” means, at any time, the laws, regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies then in effect in the Kingdom of Spain giving effect to the MREL and the principles set forth in the FSB TLAC Term Sheet or any successor principles then applicable to Banco Santander and/or the Group, including, without limitation to the generality of the foregoing, CRD IV, the BRRD and those regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies giving effect to the MREL and the principles set forth in the FSB TLAC Term Sheet or any successor principles then in effect (whether or not such requirements, guidelines or policies have the force of law and whether or not they are applied generally or specifically to Banco Santander and/or the Group).

“FSB TLAC Term Sheet” means the Total Loss-absorbing Capacity (TLAC) term sheet set forth in the document dated 9 November 2015 published by the Financial Stability Board, entitled “Principles on Loss-absorbing and Recapitalization Capacity of G-SIBs in Resolution,” as amended from time to time.

“MREL” means the “minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities” for credit institutions under the BRRD, set in accordance with Article 45 of the BRRD (as transposed in Spain), Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1450 of 23 May 2016, supplementing Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards specifying the criteria relating to the methodology for setting the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities, or any successor requirement under EU legislation and relevant implementing legislation and regulation in Spain.

“TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event” means at any time, on or following the TLAC/MREL Requirement Date, that all or part of the outstanding nominal amount of the Notes of one or several series does not fully qualify as TLAC/MREL-Eligible Instruments of Banco Santander and/or the Group, except where such non-qualification (i) was reasonably foreseeable as at the issue date of such series or (ii) is due solely to the remaining maturity of the affected Notes being less than any period prescribed for TLAC/MREL Eligible Instruments by the Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations or (iii) is as a result of the affected Notes being bought back by or on behalf of Banco Santander or a buy back of the Notes which is funded by or on behalf of Banco Santander.

For the purpose of paragraph (i) of this definition, the circumstances where any non-qualification of the Notes as TLAC/MREL Eligible Instruments shall not be “reasonably foreseeable” shall, without limitation, be deemed to include where such non-qualification arises as a result of (a) any legislation which gives effect to the EC Proposals in the Kingdom of Spain differing in any respect from the form of the EC Proposals as published by the European Commission on 23 November 2016 (the “Draft EC Proposals”) (including if the EC Proposals are not implemented in full in the Kingdom of Spain), or (b) the official interpretation or application of the Draft EC Proposals or the EC Proposals as implemented in the Kingdom of Spain (including any interpretation or pronouncement by any relevant court, tribunal or authority) differing in any respect from the manner in which the Draft EC Proposals have been reflected herein.

“TLAC/MREL Eligible Instrument” means an instrument that complies with the TLAC/MREL Requirements.

“TLAC/MREL Requirement Date” means the time from which Banco Santander and/or the Group is obliged to meet any TLAC/MREL Requirements.

“TLAC/MREL Requirements” means the total loss-absorbing capacity requirements and/or minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities applicable to Banco Santander and/or the Group under the Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations.

Substitution and Variation

If a TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event, a tax event that would entitle Banco Santander to redeem one or several series of the Notes as set forth under “ Description of Debt Securities —Redemption and Repurchase—Early Redemption for Taxation Reasons ” in the accompanying prospectus or an Alignment Event occurs and is continuing, Banco Santander may substitute all (but not some) of the affected Notes or modify the terms of all (but not some) of the affected Notes, without any requirement for the consent or approval of the holders of the affected Notes, so that they are substituted for, or varied to, become, or remain, Qualifying Notes, subject to having given not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice to the holders of the affected Notes in accordance with the terms described under “ Description of Debt Securities—Notices ” in the accompanying prospectus and to the Trustee (which notice shall be irrevocable and shall specify the date for substitution or, as applicable, variation), and subject to obtaining Supervisory Permission therefor as required under Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations, if required.

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Any such notice shall specify the relevant details of the manner in which such substitution or variation shall take effect and where the holders of the Notes can inspect or obtain copies of the new terms and conditions of the Notes. Such substitution or variation will be effected without any cost or charge to such holders.

The affected Notes shall cease to bear interest from (and including) the date of substitution thereof.

Any holder or beneficial owner of the Notes, shall, by virtue of its acquisition of Notes or any beneficial interest therein, be deemed to accept the substitution or variation of the terms of the Notes and to grant to Banco Santander full power and authority to take any action and/or to execute and deliver any document in the name and/or on behalf of such holder which is necessary or convenient to complete the substitution or variation of the terms of the Notes.

An “Alignment Event” is deemed to have occurred if there is a change in or amendment to, the Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations, or any change in the application or interpretation thereof, that results in the requirements of unsubordinated and unsecured instruments qualifying as senior non preferred obligations ( créditos ordinarios no preferentes ) under Additional Provision 14.2º of Law 11/2015, as amended or superseded from time to time, or qualifying as TLAC/MREL-Eligible Instruments being different in any respect from the terms and conditions of the Notes. Further, an Alignment Event will be deemed to have occurred if as a result of the relevant change or amendment, only securities issued on or following a certain date which is after the issue date of the Notes may qualify as unsubordinated and unsecured senior non preferred obligations ( créditos ordinarios no preferentes ) of Banco Santander under Additional Provision 14.2º of Law 11/2015, as amended or superseded from time to time.

“Qualifying Notes” means, at any time, any securities issued directly by Banco Santander that have terms not otherwise materially less favorable to the holders of the relevant Notes than the terms of the relevant Notes, provided that Banco Santander shall have delivered a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander to that effect to the Trustee not less than five Business Days prior to (x) in the case of a substitution of the affected Notes as described above, the issue date of the affected Notes or (y) in the case of a variation of the Notes as described above, the date such variation becomes effective, provided that such securities shall:

Events of Default

If any of the following events occurs and is continuing with respect to the Notes, it shall constitute an event of default:

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Under the terms of the Base Indenture, no exercise of a resolution tool or resolution power by the Relevant Resolution Authority or any action in compliance therewith shall constitute a Senior Non Preferred Debt Security Event of Default. If a Senior Non Preferred Security Event of Default occurs as set forth in paragraph (i) above, then the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the Notes may institute proceedings for the winding up or dissolution of Banco Santander but may take no further action in respect of such default. If a Senior Non Preferred Debt Security Event of Default occurs as set forth in paragraph (ii) above, then the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the Notes may declare the Notes immediately due and payable whereupon the Notes shall, when permitted by applicable Spanish insolvency law, become immediately due and payable at their early termination amount together with all interest (if any) accrued thereon.

Without prejudice to paragraphs (i) and (ii) above, the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the Notes may at their discretion and without further notice, institute such proceedings against Banco Santander as they may think fit to enforce any obligation, condition or provision binding on Banco Santander under the Notes, provided that, except as provided in (ii) winding up above, Banco Santander shall not as a consequence of such proceedings be obliged to pay any sum or sums representing or measured by reference to principal or interest in respect of the Notes sooner than the same would otherwise have been payable by it or any damages.

Notwithstanding any contrary provisions, nothing shall impair the right of a holder, absent the holder’s consent, to sue for any payments due but unpaid with respect to the Notes.

Listing

We intend to apply for the listing of the Notes on the New York Stock Exchange in accordance with its rules.

Governing Law

The Base Indenture, the Second Supplemental Indenture, and the Notes will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, except that the authorization and execution by Banco Santander of the Base Indenture, the Second Supplemental Indenture and the Notes, and certain provisions of the Notes, the Base Indenture and the Second Supplemental Indenture related to the ranking of the Notes, shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Spanish law.

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DESCRIPTION OF DEBT SECURITIES

The following is a summary of the general terms that will apply to any debt securities that may be offered by Banco Santander. The term “debt securities” does not include the “contingent convertible capital securities” described under “Description of Contingent Convertible Capital Securities”.

Each time that Banco Santander issues debt securities, Banco Santander will file a prospectus supplement and/or free writing prospectus with the SEC, which you should read carefully. The prospectus supplement and/or free writing prospectus will summarize specific financial terms of an investor’s security and may contain additional or different terms of those debt securities to those described in this prospectus. All references in this prospectus to a prospectus supplement in respect of any series of securities include references to a free writing prospectus if a free writing prospectus is filed to set forth any terms of such series. The terms presented here, together with the terms contained in the prospectus supplement, will be a description of the material terms of the debt securities, but if there is any inconsistency between the terms presented here and those in the prospectus supplement, those in the prospectus supplement will apply and will replace those presented here. Therefore, the statements made below in this section may not apply to each investor’s debt security. Investors should also read the indentures under which Banco Santander will issue the debt securities, which have been filed with the SEC as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.

In this description of debt securities, the following expressions have the following meanings:

“Additional Tier 1 Instrument” means any contractually subordinated obligation ( créditos subordinados ) of Banco Santander according to Article 92.2º of the Spanish Insolvency Law, ranking as an additional tier 1 instrument ( instrumentos de capital adicional de nivel 1 ) under Additional Provision 14.2º(c) of Law 11/2015.

An “Alignment Event” is deemed to have occurred if, following the implementation of the Senior Ranking Amendment Legislation or an amendment thereof, the terms and conditions of Statutory Second Ranking Senior Liabilities or the most junior sub-class within the unsubordinated and unsecured liabilities class, are different in any respect from the terms and conditions of the second ranking senior debt securities set forth herein. Further, with respect to each series of second ranking senior debt securities, an Alignment Event will be deemed to have occurred if the Senior Ranking Amendment Legislation requires that only securities issued on or following a certain date which is after the issue date of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series may qualify as Statutory Second Ranking Senior Liabilities or as the most junior sub-class within the unsubordinated and unsecured liabilities class.

“Applicable Banking Regulations” means at any time the laws, regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies relating to capital adequacy, resolution and/or solvency then applicable to Banco Santander and/or the Group including, without limitation to the generality of the foregoing, those regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies relating to capital adequacy, resolution and/or solvency then in effect of the Regulator (whether or not such requirements, guidelines or policies have the force of law and whether or not they are applied generally or specifically to Banco Santander and/or the Group).

“Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations” means, at any time, the laws, regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies then in effect in the Kingdom of Spain giving effect to the MREL and the principles set forth in the FSB TLAC Term Sheet or any successor principles then applicable to Banco Santander and/or the Group, including, without limitation to the generality of the foregoing, CRD IV, the BRRD and those regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies giving effect to the MREL and the principles set forth in the FSB TLAC Term Sheet or any successor principles then in effect (whether or not such requirements, guidelines or policies have the force of law and whether or not they are applied generally or specifically to Banco Santander and/or the Group).

“Business Day” means, unless otherwise provided for in the applicable prospectus supplement, any day, other than Saturday or Sunday, that is neither a legal holiday nor a day on which banking institutions are authorized or required by law, regulation or executive order to close in the City of New York, London, Madrid or any other place or places where the principal of, or any premium or interest on, or any Additional Amounts with respect to the debt securities of that series are payable.

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“Calculation Agent” means the Trustee or such other person authorized by Banco Santander as the party responsible for calculating the rate(s) of interest and interest amount(s) and/or such other amount(s) from time to time in relation to any series of debt securities as may be specified in the relevant prospectus supplement.

“Capital Disqualification Event” means a change in Spanish law, Applicable Banking Regulations or any change in the application or official interpretation thereof that results or is likely to result in the entire outstanding aggregate principal amount of subordinated debt securities of any series ceasing to be included in, or counting towards, Banco Santander and/or the Group’s Tier 2 Capital.

“CRD IV” means any or any combination of the CRD IV Directive, the CRR, and any CRD IV Implementing Measures;

“CRD IV Directive” means Directive 2013/36/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 June 2013 on access to the activity of credit institutions and the prudential supervision of credit institutions and investment firms, amending Directive 2002/87/EC and repealing Directives 2006/48/EC and 2006/49/EC or such other directive as may come into effect in place thereof;

“CRD IV Implementing Measures” means any regulatory capital rules implementing the CRD IV Directive or the CRR which may from time to time be introduced, including, but not limited to, delegated or implementing acts (regulatory technical standards) adopted by the European Commission, national laws and regulations, and regulations and guidelines issued by the Regulator, the European Banking Authority or any other relevant authority, which are applicable to Banco Santander (on a standalone basis) or the Group (on a consolidated basis);

“CRR” means Regulation (EU) No. 575/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 June 2013 on the prudential requirements for credit institutions and investment firms and amending Regulation (EU) No. 648/2012 or such other regulation as may come into effect in place thereof;

“FSB TLAC Term Sheet” means the Total Loss-absorbing Capacity (TLAC) term sheet set forth in the document dated 9 November 2015 published by the Financial Stability Board, entitled “Principles on Loss-absorbing and Recapitalization Capacity of G-SIBs in Resolution,” as amended from time to time.

“MREL” means the “minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities” for credit institutions under the BRRD, set in accordance with Article 45 of the BRRD (as transposed in Spain), Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1450 of 23 May 2016, supplementing Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards specifying the criteria relating to the methodology for setting the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities, or any successor requirement under EU legislation and relevant implementing legislation and regulation in Spain.

“Principal Paying Agent” means any Person (which may include Banco Santander) authorized by Banco Santander to pay the principal of, or any premium or interest on, or any Additional Amounts with respect to, the debt securities of any series on behalf of Banco Santander. Unless otherwise specified in the applicable prospectus supplement, The Bank of New York Mellon acting through its London Branch will act as the Principal Paying Agent in respect of the debt securities of any series.

“Person” means any individual, company, corporation, firm, partnership, joint venture, association, organization, state or agency of a state or other entity, whether or not having separate legal personality.

“Qualifying Notes” means, with respect to each series of second ranking senior debt securities and each series of subordinated debt securities, at any time, any securities issued directly by Banco Santander that have terms not otherwise materially less favorable to the holders of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or subordinated debt securities of such series than the terms of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or subordinated debt securities of such series, as applicable, provided that Banco Santander shall have delivered a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander to that effect to the Trustee not less than five Business Days prior to (x) in the case of a substitution of the second ranking senior debt securities of any series or the subordinated debt securities of any series, as applicable, pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”, the issue date of the relevant securities or (y) in the case of a variation of the second ranking senior debt securities of any series or the subordinated debt securities of any series, as applicable, pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”, the date such variation becomes effective, provided that such securities shall:

(i) (a) in the case of second ranking senior debt securities, if the TLAC/MREL Requirement Date has occurred, contain terms which comply with the then current requirements for TLAC/MREL-Eligible Instruments as embodied in the Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations, and (b) in the case of subordinated debt securities, contain terms which comply with the then current requirements for their inclusion in the Tier 2 Capital of Banco Santander; and

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(ii) carry the same rate of interest as the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or the subordinated debt securities of such series, as applicable, prior to the relevant substitution or variation pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”; and

(iii) have the same denomination and aggregate outstanding principal amount as the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or the subordinated debt securities of such series, as applicable, prior to the relevant substitution or variation pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”; and

(iv) have the same date of maturity and the same dates for payment of interest as the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or the subordinated debt securities of such series, as applicable, prior to the relevant substitution or variation pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”; and

(v) have at least the same ranking as the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or the subordinated debt securities of such series, as applicable; and

(vi) not, immediately following such substitution or variation, (a) in the case of second ranking senior debt securities be subject to a TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event, an Alignment Event and/or a tax event that would entitle Banco Santander to redeem the debt securities as set forth under “—Redemption and Repurchase—Early Redemption for Taxation Reasons”; and (b) in the case of subordinated debt securities be subject to a Capital Disqualification Event and/or a tax event that would entitle Banco Santander to redeem the debt securities as set forth under “—Redemption and Repurchase—Early Redemption for Taxation Reasons”; and

(vii) be listed or admitted to trading on any stock exchange as selected by Banco Santander, if the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or the subordinated debt securities of such series, as applicable, were listed or admitted to trading on a stock exchange immediately prior to the relevant substitution or variation pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation.”

“Relevant Resolution Authority” means the Spanish Fund for the Orderly Restructuring of Banks or the European Single Resolution Mechanism, as the case may be, according to Law 11/2015, and any other entity with the authority to exercise the Bail-in Power or any other resolution power from time to time.

“Regulator” means the European Central Bank, or such other or successor authority exercising primary bank supervisory authority, in each case with respect to prudential matters in relation to Banco Santander and/or the Group.

“Supervisory Permission” means, in relation to any action, such supervisory permission (or, as appropriate, waiver) from the Regulator and/or the Relevant Resolution Authority as is required therefor under Applicable Banking Regulations.

“Tier 2 Capital” means at any time, with respect to Banco Santander or the Group, as the case may be, the Tier 2 capital of Banco Santander or the Group, respectively, as calculated by Banco Santander in accordance with Chapter 4 (Tier 2 capital) of Title I (Elements of own funds) of Part Two (Own Funds) of the CRR and/or Applicable Banking Regulations at such time, including any applicable transitional, phasing in or similar provisions.

“Tier 2 Instrument” means any contractually subordinated obligation ( créditos subordinados ) of Banco Santander according to Article 92.2º of the Spanish Insolvency Law, ranking as a tier 2 instrument ( instrumentos de capital de nivel 2 ) under Additional Provision 14.2º(b) of Law 11/2015.

A “TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event” shall have occurred at any time, on or following the TLAC/MREL Requirement Date, that all or part of the outstanding nominal amount of a series of second ranking senior debt securities does not fully qualify as TLAC/MREL-Eligible Instruments of Banco Santander and/or the Group, except where such non-qualification (i) was reasonably foreseeable as at the issue date of such series or (ii) is due solely to the remaining maturity of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series being less than any period

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prescribed for TLAC/MREL-Eligible Instruments by the Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations or (iii) is as a result of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series being bought back by or on behalf of Banco Santander or a buy back of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series which is funded by or on behalf of Banco Santander.

For the purpose of paragraph (i) of this definition, the circumstances where any non-qualification of any series of second ranking senior debt securities as TLAC/MREL-Eligible Instruments shall not be “reasonably foreseeable” shall, without limitation, be deemed to include where such non-qualification arises as a result of (a) any legislation which gives effect to the EC Proposals in the Kingdom of Spain differing in any respect from the form of the EC Proposals as published by the European Commission on 23 November 2016 (the “Draft EC Proposals”) (including if the EC Proposals are not implemented in full in the Kingdom of Spain), or (b) the official interpretation or application of the Draft EC Proposals or the EC Proposals as implemented in the Kingdom of Spain (including any interpretation or pronouncement by any relevant court, tribunal or authority) differing in any respect from the manner in which the Draft EC Proposals have been reflected herein.

“TLAC/MREL Eligible Instrument” means an instrument that complies with the TLAC/MREL Requirements.

“TLAC/MREL Requirement Date” means the time from which Banco Santander and/or the Group is obliged to meet any TLAC/MREL Requirements.

“TLAC/MREL Requirements” means the total loss-absorbing capacity requirements and/or minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities applicable to Banco Santander and/or the Group under the Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations.

General

The debt securities are not deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency of the United States, Spain or any other jurisdiction.

The debt securities will be direct, unconditional and unsecured debt obligations of Banco Santander. The indentures do not limit the amount of debt securities that Banco Santander may issue. Banco Santander may issue debt securities in one or more series. The relevant prospectus supplement and any related issuer free writing prospectus for any particular series of debt securities will describe the terms of the offered debt securities, including but not limited to, some or all of the following terms:

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Holders of debt securities shall have no voting rights except those described under the heading “ — Modification and Waiver ” below.

Payments of Interest

Banco Santander will make any payments of interest and principal on any particular series of debt securities on the dates and, in the case of payments of interest, at the rate or rates, that Banco Santander sets out in, or that are determined by the method of calculation described in, the relevant prospectus supplement. All payments in respect of the debt securities will be subject in all cases to any fiscal or other laws and regulations applicable thereto in the place of payment (including FATCA, any regulations or agreements thereunder, any official interpretation thereof, any intergovernmental agreements with respect thereto, or any law implementing an intergovernmental agreement or any regulations or official interpretations relating thereto), but without prejudice to the provisions described in “ — Additional Amounts ” below.

Status of the Debt Securities

Ordinary senior debt securities

Unless the relevant prospectus supplement provides otherwise, the payment obligations of Banco Santander under the ordinary senior debt securities on account of principal constitute direct, unconditional, unsubordinated and unsecured obligations ( créditos ordinarios ) of Banco Santander and, upon the insolvency of Banco Santander (and unless they qualify as subordinated claims ( créditos subordinados ) pursuant to Article 92.1º or 92.3º to 92.7º of the Spanish Insolvency Law), but subject to any other ranking that may apply as a result of any mandatory provision of law (or otherwise), rank pari passu and rateably without preference among themselves and with all other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness ( créditos ordinarios ) of Banco Santander, present or future (other than second ranking senior debt securities and claims in respect of Senior Parity Liabilities which will rank junior to them as set out below) and senior to any present and future subordinated obligations ( créditos subordinados ) of Banco Santander.

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Claims of holders of ordinary senior debt securities in respect of interest accrued but unpaid as of the commencement of any insolvency procedure in respect of Banco Santander shall constitute subordinated claims (créditos subordinados) against Banco Santander ranking in accordance with the provisions of Article 92.3º of the Spanish Insolvency Law and no further interest shall accrue from the date of the declaration of insolvency of Banco Santander.

The obligations of Banco Santander under the ordinary senior debt securities are subject to the Bail-in Power.

Second ranking senior debt securities

Unless the relevant prospectus supplement provides otherwise, the payment obligations of Banco Santander under the second ranking senior debt securities on account of principal constitute direct, unconditional, unsubordinated and unsecured obligations ( créditos ordinarios ) of Banco Santander and, upon the insolvency of Banco Santander (and unless they qualify as subordinated claims ( créditos subordinados ) pursuant to Article 92.1º or 92.3º to 92.7º of the Spanish Insolvency Law), but subject to any other ranking that may apply as a result of any mandatory provision of law (or otherwise), rank (i) within the senior and unsecured liabilities ( créditos ordinarios ) class of Banco Santander (a) junior to the claims in respect of principal under all Senior Higher Priority Liabilities and (b)  pari passu with the claims in respect of principal under any Senior Parity Liabilities, and (ii) senior to any present and future subordinated obligations ( créditos subordinados ) of Banco Santander.

Claims for principal in respect of second ranking senior debt securities are intended to constitute Statutory Second Ranking Senior Liabilities ranking below Statutory Ordinary Senior Liabilities pursuant to any Senior Ranking Amendment Legislation (to the extent permitted by such Senior Ranking Amendment Legislation) but ahead of claims in respect of present and future subordinated obligations ( créditos subordinados ) of Banco Santander.

If the Senior Ranking Amendment Legislation (if any) makes it a condition for Statutory Second Ranking Senior Liabilities or other instruments comprising the most junior sub-class within the unsubordinated and unsecured liabilities ( créditos ordinarios ) class (such as the second ranking senior debt securities), upon the insolvency ( concurso ) of Banco Santander, to rank below the obligations under any Statutory Ordinary Senior Liabilities or the rest of unsubordinated and unsecured liabilities ( créditos ordinarios ) (such as those under all Senior Higher Priority Liabilities), that the relevant contractual documentation in respect of Statutory Second Ranking Senior Liabilities or other instruments comprising the most junior sub-class within the unsubordinated and unsecured liabilities ( créditos ordinarios ) class, explicitly refers to their ranking relative to the Statutory Ordinary Senior Liabilities or the rest of unsubordinated and unsecured liabilities ( créditos ordinarios ), the holders (by virtue of their subscription and/or purchase and holding of the relevant second ranking senior debt securities) will be deemed to have irrevocably accepted the status of the second ranking senior debt securities described above for the purpose of the Senior Ranking Amendment Legislation.

Banco Santander agrees with respect to any series of second ranking senior debt securities and each holder of second ranking senior debt securities of any series, by his or her acquisition of a second ranking senior debt security will be deemed to have agreed to the ranking as described herein. Each such holder will be deemed to have irrevocably waived his or her rights of priority which would otherwise be accorded to him or her under the laws of Spain, to the extent necessary to effectuate the ranking provisions of the second ranking senior debt security. In addition, each holder of second ranking senior debt securities of any series by his or her acquisition of such second ranking senior debt securities authorizes and directs the applicable trustee on his or her behalf to take such action as may be necessary or appropriate to effectuate the ranking of such second ranking senior debt securities as provided herein and appoints the applicable trustee his or her attorney-in-fact for any and all such purposes.

Claims of holders of second ranking senior debt securities in respect of interest accrued but unpaid as of the commencement of any insolvency procedure in respect of Banco Santander shall constitute subordinated claims (créditos subordinados) against Banco Santander ranking in accordance with the provisions of Article 92.3º of the Spanish Insolvency Law and no further interest shall accrue from the date of the declaration of insolvency of Banco Santander.

The obligations of Banco Santander under the second ranking senior debt securities are subject to the Bail-in Power.

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“Senior Higher Priority Liabilities” means the unsubordinated and unsecured obligations ( cr é ditos ordinarios ) of Banco Santander (which will include, among others, the ordinary senior debt securities), other than those under the second ranking senior debt securities and the Senior Parity Liabilities.

“Senior Parity Liabilities” means any other unsubordinated and unsecured obligations ( créditos ordinarios ) of Banco Santander which, by law and/or by their terms, rank pari passu with Banco Santander’s obligations under the second ranking senior debt securities at that time.

“Senior Ranking Amendment Legislation” means, if and as applicable, a Spanish law that expressly provides for the possibility that, upon the insolvency ( concurso ) of a Regulated Entity issuer of debt securities (i) the obligations under certain unsubordinated and unsecured liabilities ( créditos ordinarios ) (the “Statutory Second Ranking Senior Liabilities”) may rank below those of other unsubordinated and unsecured liabilities ( créditos ordinarios ) with higher priority ranking (the “Statutory Ordinary Senior Liabilities”), or (ii) different sub-classes within the unsubordinated and unsecured liabilities ( créditos ordinarios ) class are contractually agreed.

Subordinated Debt Securities

Unless the relevant prospectus supplement provides otherwise, the payment obligations of Banco Santander under the subordinated debt securities on account of principal constitute direct, unconditional, unsecured and subordinated obligations ( créditos subordinados ) of Banco Santander according to Article 92.2º of the Spanish Insolvency Law and, in accordance with Additional Provision 14.2º of Law 11/2015, but subject to any other ranking that may apply as a result of any mandatory provision of law (or otherwise), upon the insolvency of Banco Santander (unless they qualify as subordinated claims ( créditos subordinados ) pursuant to Articles 92.3º to 92.7º of the Spanish Insolvency Law) rank for so long as the obligations of Banco Santander in respect of the subordinated debt securities constitute Tier 2 Instruments:

Banco Santander agrees with respect to any series of subordinated debt securities and each holder of subordinated debt securities of any series, by his or her acquisition of a subordinated debt security, will be deemed to have agreed to the above described subordination. Each such holder will be deemed to have irrevocably waived his or her rights of priority which would otherwise be accorded to him or her under the laws of Spain, to the extent necessary to effectuate the subordination provisions of the subordinated debt security. In addition, each holder of subordinated debt securities of any series by his or her acquisition of the securities authorizes and directs the applicable trustee on his or her behalf to take such action as may be necessary or appropriate to effectuate the subordination of the relevant subordinated debt securities as provided in the subordinated indenture and as summarized herein and appoints the applicable trustee his or her attorney-in-fact for any and all such purposes.

Claims of holders of subordinated debt securities in respect of interest accrued but unpaid as of the commencement of any insolvency procedure in respect of Banco Santander shall constitute subordinated claims (créditos subordinados) against Banco Santander ranking in accordance with the provisions of Article 92.3º of the Spanish Insolvency Law and no further interest shall accrue from the date of the declaration of insolvency of Banco Santander.

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The obligations of Banco Santander under the subordinated debt securities are subject to the Bail-in Power.

“Senior Subordinated Liabilities” means any contractually subordinated obligation ( créditos subordinados ) of Banco Santander according to Article 92.2º of the Spanish Insolvency Law, other than an Additional Tier 1 Instrument or a Tier 2 Instrument.

Additional Amounts

Unless otherwise specified in the relevant prospectus supplement, all amounts payable (whether in respect of principal, redemption amount, interest or otherwise) in respect of any series of debt securities will be made free and clear of and without withholding or deduction for or on account of any present or future taxes, duties, assessments or governmental charges of whatever nature imposed or levied by or on behalf of the Kingdom of Spain or any political subdivision thereof or any authority or agency therein or thereof having power to tax, unless the withholding or deduction of such taxes, duties, assessments or governmental charges is required by law. In that event, Banco Santander shall pay such additional amounts (“Additional Amounts”) as will result in receipt by the holders of the debt securities of the particular series of such amounts as would have been received by them had no such withholding or deduction been required.

However, Banco Santander shall not be required to pay any Additional Amounts in respect of any debt securities:

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Additional Amounts will also not be paid with respect to any payment to a holder who is a fiduciary, a partnership, a limited liability company or person other than the sole beneficial owner of that payment, to the extent that payment would be required by the laws of Spain (or any political subdivision thereof) to be included in the income, for tax purposes, of a beneficiary or settlor with respect to the fiduciary, a member of that partnership, an interest holder in that limited liability company or a beneficial owner who would not have been entitled to the Additional Amounts had it been the holder.

For the purposes of (iv) above, the “Relevant Date” means, in respect of any payment, the date on which such payment first becomes due and payable, but if the full amount of the moneys payable has not been received by the Trustee on or prior to such due date, it means the first date on which, the full amount of such moneys having been so received and being available for payment to holders of debt securities, notice to that effect shall have been duly given to the holders of the relevant series of debt securities in accordance with the indenture.

Unless the context otherwise requires, any reference in this “Additional Amounts” section to “principal” shall include any premium payable, or Redemption Amount and any other amounts in the nature of principal payable pursuant to the relevant indenture and “interest” shall include all amounts payable described under “ — Payments of Interest ” above and any other amounts in the nature of interest payable under the relevant indenture.

As used in this “Additional Amounts” section, the term “Redemption Amount” means, as appropriate, the Maturity Redemption Amount, Early Redemption Amount (Tax), Early Redemption Amount (Capital Disqualification Event), Early Redemption Amount (Call), Early Redemption Amount (Put) and Early Termination Amount or such other amount in the nature of a redemption amount as may be specified in, or determined in accordance with the provisions of, the relevant prospectus supplement.

Except where the context requires otherwise, any reference in the prospectus supplement to payment of principal of or interest on a debt security shall be deemed to include any Additional Amounts payable with respect thereto.

Additional Issuances

Banco Santander may, without the consent of the holders of the debt securities of any series, issue additional debt securities of such series having the same ranking and same interest rate, maturity date, redemption terms and other terms as the debt securities of such series described in the relevant prospectus supplement except for the price to the public, original interest accrual date, issue date and first interest payment date, provided however that such additional debt securities will not have the same CUSIP, ISIN or other identifying number as the outstanding debt securities of the relevant series unless the additional debt securities are fungible with the outstanding debt securities of the relevant series for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Any such additional debt securities, together with the debt securities of the relevant series offered by the relevant prospectus supplement, will constitute a single series of securities under the relevant indenture. There is no limitation on the amount of debt securities that Banco Santander may issue under the relevant indentures.

Redemption and Repurchase

Early Redemption for Taxation Reasons

Unless otherwise specified in the relevant prospectus supplement, if, in relation to the debt securities of any series, (i) as a result of any change in the laws or regulations of Spain or of any political subdivision thereof or any authority or agency therein or thereof having power to tax or in the interpretation or administration of any such laws or regulations which becomes effective on or after the date of issue of the first issued debt securities of such series or any earlier date specified in the relevant prospectus supplement, Banco Santander shall determine that (a) it would be required to pay additional amounts as described in “ — Additional Amounts ” above or (b) it would not be entitled to claim a deduction in computing tax liabilities in Spain in respect of any interest to be paid on the next interest payment date on such series of debt securities or the value of such deduction to Banco Santander would be

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materially reduced or (c) the applicable tax treatment of the debt securities of such series changes in a material way that was not reasonably foreseeable at the issue date and (ii) such circumstances are evidenced by the delivery by Banco Santander to the Trustee of a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander stating that such circumstances prevail and describing the facts leading thereto, an opinion of independent legal advisers of recognized standing to the effect that such circumstances prevail and, in the case of second ranking senior debt securities, a copy of the Supervisory Permission for the redemption, if required, or, in the case of subordinated debt securities, a copy of the Regulator’s consent for the redemption. Banco Santander may, at its option and having given no less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice (ending, in the case of debt securities which bear interest at a floating rate, on a day upon which interest is payable) to the holders of the debt securities of such series in accordance with the terms described under “ — Notices ” below (which notice shall be irrevocable), redeem in whole, but not in part, the outstanding debt securities of such series (in the case of subordinated debt securities and second ranking senior debt securities in accordance with the requirements of Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time) at their early tax redemption amount (the “Early Redemption Amount (Tax)”) (which shall be their principal amount or at such other Early Redemption Amount (Tax) as may be specified in or determined as described in the relevant prospectus supplement), together with accrued interest (if any) thereon; provided, however , that (i) in the case of (a) above, no such notice of redemption may be given earlier than 90 days (or, in the case of debt securities which bear interest at a floating rate a number of days which is equal to the aggregate of the number of days falling within the then current interest period applicable to the debt securities of such series plus 60 days) prior to the earliest date on which Banco Santander would be obliged to pay such additional amounts were a payment in respect of the debt securities of such series then due and (ii) in the case of second ranking senior debt securities and subordinated debt securities, redemption for taxation reasons may only take place in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time and subject to Banco Santander obtaining, with respect to the second ranking senior debt securities of such series, the prior Supervisory Permission therefor, if required, or with respect to the subordinated debt securities of such series, the prior consent of the Regulator.

Article 78(4) of the CRR provides that the Regulator may only permit the redemption of subordinated debt securities of any series before the fifth anniversary of the issue date of subordinated debt securities of such series for taxation reasons if, in addition to meeting one of the conditions referred to in paragraphs (a) or (b) of Article 78(1) of the CRR (as described below), there is a change in the applicable tax treatment of the subordinated debt securities of such series and the institution demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Regulator that such change is material and was not reasonably foreseeable at the issue date of subordinated debt securities of such series.

Early Redemption of Second Ranking Senior Debt Securities for a TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event

Unless otherwise specified in the relevant prospectus supplement, if, in relation to second ranking senior debt securities of any series, following the TLAC/MREL Requirement Date, a TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event has occurred and is continuing and such circumstances are evidenced by the delivery by Banco Santander to the Trustee of a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander stating that such circumstances prevail and describing the facts leading thereto, an opinion of independent legal advisers of recognized standing to the effect that such circumstances prevail and a copy of the Supervisory Permission for the redemption, if required, then Banco Santander may, subject to being permitted by Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations and having given not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice (ending, in the case of second ranking senior debt securities which bear interest at a floating rate, on a day upon which interest is payable) to the holders of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series in accordance with the terms described under “— Notices ” below (which notice shall be irrevocable), redeem in whole but not in part the outstanding second ranking senior debt securities of such series at their principal amount, together with any accrued and unpaid interest thereon to (but excluding) the date fixed for redemption (the “Early Redemption Amount (TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event)”).

Redemption on the basis of a TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event is subject to Banco Santander obtaining prior Supervisory Permission therefor, if required, and may only take place in accordance with Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations in force at the relevant time.

Early Redemption of Subordinated Debt Securities for Capital Disqualification Event

Unless otherwise specified in the relevant prospectus supplement, if, in relation to subordinated debt securities of any series, (i) there is a Capital Disqualification Event and (ii) such circumstances are evidenced by the delivery by Banco Santander to the Trustee of a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander stating that the said circumstances prevail and describing the facts leading thereto and a copy of the Regulator’s consent to the

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redemption, Banco Santander may, at its option and having given no less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice (ending, in the case of subordinated debt securities which bear interest at a floating rate, on a day upon which interest is payable) to the holders of the subordinated debt securities of such series in accordance with the terms described under “ — Notices ” below (which notice shall be irrevocable), redeem in whole but not in part the outstanding subordinated debt securities of such series in accordance with the requirements of Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time) at their early capital disqualification event redemption amount (the “Early Redemption Amount (Capital Disqualification Event)”) (which shall be their principal amount or such other Early Redemption Amount (Capital Disqualification Event) as may be specified in or determined in the relevant prospectus supplement), together with any accrued and unpaid interest thereon to (but excluding) the date fixed for redemption; provided, however , that the Regulator consents to redemption of the subordinated debt securities of such series.

Redemption for regulatory reasons is subject to the prior consent of the Regulator and may only take place in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time.

Article 78(4) of the CRR provides that the Regulator may only permit the redemption of subordinated debt securities of any series before the fifth anniversary of the issue date of the subordinated debt securities of such series for regulatory reasons if, in addition to meeting one of the conditions referred to in paragraphs (a) or (b) of Article 78(1) of the CRR (as described below), there is a change in the regulatory classification of the subordinated debt securities of such series that would be likely to result in their exclusion from own funds or reclassification as a lower quality form of own funds, the Regulator considers such change to be sufficiently certain and the institution demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Regulator that the regulatory classification was not reasonably foreseeable at the issue date of the subordinated debt securities of such series.

Optional Early Redemption (Call)

Unless otherwise specified in the relevant prospectus supplement, Banco Santander may, upon the expiration of the appropriate notice (described below) and subject to such conditions as may be specified in the relevant prospectus supplement (and subject, in the case of second ranking senior debt securities or subordinated debt securities to the prior consent of the Regulator) redeem in whole (but not, unless and to the extent that the relevant prospectus supplement specifies otherwise, in part) the debt securities of such series at their call early redemption amount (the “Early Redemption Amount (Call)”) (which shall be their principal amount or such other Early Redemption Amount (Call) as may be specified in or determined in the relevant prospectus supplement), together with any accrued interest (if any) thereon to (but excluding) the date fixed for redemption.

In the case of second ranking senior debt securities, early redemption at the option of Banco Santander may only take place in accordance with Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations and subject to Banco Santander obtaining prior Supervisory Permission thereof as required under Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations, if required.

In the case of second ranking senior debt securities or subordinated debt securities, redemption at the option of Banco Santander is subject to the prior consent of the Regulator and may only take place in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time. In accordance with Article 63(j) of the CRR, subordinated securities may not be called, redeemed or repurchased or repaid before five years after the date of issuance.

Article 78(1) of the CRR provides that the Regulator will give its consent to a redemption of subordinated debt securities such circumstances provided that either of the following conditions is met:

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“CRD IV Directive” means Directive 2013/36/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 June 2013 on access to the activity of credit institutions and the prudential supervision of credit institutions and investment firms, amending Directive 2002/87/EC and repealing Directives 2006/48/EC and 2006/49/EC or such other directive as may come into effect in place thereof.

Partial Redemption

If the debt securities of any series are to be redeemed in part only on any date in accordance with “ — Optional Early Redemption (Call) ” above, the debt securities to be redeemed will be selected not more than 60 days nor less than 30 days prior to such redemption date by the Trustee pro rata to their principal amounts, or by lot or by such method as the Trustee deems fair and appropriate, provided that the amount redeemed in respect of the debt securities of such series shall be equal to the minimum authorized denomination or an integral multiple thereof, subject always to compliance with all applicable laws and the requirements of any clearing system on which the debt securities of such series may be cleared and of any listing authority, stock exchange and/or quotation system on which the debt securities of such series may be listed and/or quoted. In the case of debt securities issued in global form, DTC shall select Book-Entry Interests in such debt securities as described under “ — Form of Securities; Book-Entry System ” below. The Trustee shall not be liable for selections made by it in accordance with this paragraph or for selections made by DTC. No debt securities of $2,000 or less can be redeemed in part.

In the case of second ranking senior debt securities and subordinated debt securities partial redemption is subject to the prior consent of the Regulator and may only take place in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time.

Optional Early Redemption (Put) of Ordinary Senior Debt Securities

Unless otherwise specified in the relevant prospectus supplement, Banco Santander shall, upon the exercise of the relevant option by a holder of ordinary senior debt securities of any series, redeem the ordinary senior debt securities of such series on the date or the dates specified in the relevant prospectus supplement at the put early redemption amount (the “Early Redemption Amount (Put)”) (which shall be the principal amount or such other Early Redemption Amount (Put) as may be specified in or determined in the relevant prospectus supplement), together with accrued interest (if any) thereon. In order to exercise such option, the holder of the ordinary senior debt securities of such series must, not less than 60 days before the date so specified (or such other period as may be specified in the relevant prospectus supplement), deposit a duly completed redemption notice in the form which is available from the specified office of the Trustee specifying the aggregate principal amount in respect of which such option is exercised (which must be the minimum denomination specified in the relevant prospectus supplement or an integral multiple thereof). Such notice must also be delivered in accordance with the requirements of the applicable clearing system. No option exercised may be withdrawn (except as provided in the relevant indenture).

The Early Redemption (Put) shall not apply in the case of second ranking senior debt securities or subordinated debt securities of any series and holders of second ranking senior debt securities or subordinated debt securities of any series may not redeem the second ranking senior debt securities or subordinated debt securities of such series prior to the maturity date of such series.

A holder of any series of ordinary senior debt securities may not exercise such option in respect of any series of ordinary senior debt securities which is the subject of an exercise by Banco Santander of its option to redeem such series of ordinary senior debt securities under “ — Early Redemption for Taxation Reasons ” or “ — Optional Early Redemption (Call) ” above.

Notice of Redemption

For purposes of this section “ — Redemption and Repurchase ”, the appropriate notice to be given by Banco Santander to the Trustee and the holders of the debt securities of such series, shall be signed by two duly authorized officers of Banco Santander and shall specify:

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Any such notice shall be irrevocable, and the delivery thereof shall oblige Banco Santander to make the redemption therein specified (unless the Bail-in Power is exercised by the Relevant Resolution Authority before the occurrence of such redemption).

Repurchase of Debt Securities

Banco Santander and any of its subsidiaries or any third party designated by any of them, may at any time repurchase debt securities in the open market or otherwise and at any price.

In the case of second ranking senior debt securities of any series, the repurchase of the senior-non preferred debt securities of such series by Banco Santander or any of its subsidiaries shall take place in accordance with Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations in force at the relevant time and subject to Banco Santander obtaining prior Supervisory Permission thereof, if required.

In the case of subordinated debt securities of any series, the repurchase of the subordinated debt securities of such series by Banco Santander or any of its subsidiaries shall take place in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time. Under the current Applicable Banking Regulations, an institution requires the prior permission of the Regulator (Article 77(b) of CRR) to effect the repurchase of Tier 2 Instruments, and these may not be repurchased before five years after the date of issuance (Article 63(j) of CRR).

Modification and Waiver

Modification

Banco Santander and the Trustee may make certain modifications and amendments of the applicable indenture with respect to any series of debt securities without the consent of the holders of the debt securities of that series, including for, but not limited to, any of the following purposes:

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In addition to the permitted amendments described in the preceding paragraph, Banco Santander and the Trustee may amend or supplement the relevant indenture or the debt securities of any series and the related supplemental indenture without the consent of any holders of the debt securities of such series to conform the provisions of the relevant indenture to this “Description of Debt Securities” section in this registration statement and the applicable prospectus supplement.

Banco Santander may make other modifications and amendments with the consent of the holder or holders of not less than a majority in aggregate outstanding principal amount of the debt securities of the series outstanding under the indenture that are affected by the modification or amendment, voting as one class. However, Banco Santander may not make any modification or amendment without the consent of the holder of each debt security affected that would:

In addition, material variations in the terms and conditions of debt securities of any series, including modifications relating to subordination, redemption, an Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, a Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default, (as those terms are defined under “ — Events of Default and Defaults; Limitations of Remedies ” below), may require the non-objection from, or consent of, the Regulator or its successor.

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Events of Default and Defaults; Limitation of Remedies

Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default

Unless the relevant prospectus supplement provides otherwise, an “Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default” with respect to any series of ordinary senior debt securities shall result if:

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Under the terms of the ordinary senior debt securities indenture, no exercise of a resolution tool or resolution power by the Relevant Resolution Authority or any action in compliance therewith shall constitute an Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default.

If any Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default shall occur in relation to any series of ordinary senior debt securities, the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the ordinary senior debt securities of that series may at their discretion declare that the ordinary senior debt securities of such series and all interest then accrued thereon shall be forthwith due and payable, whereupon the same shall become immediately due and payable at its early termination amount (the “Early Termination Amount”) (which shall be its principal amount or such other Early Termination Amount as may be specified in or determined in accordance with the relevant prospectus supplement, together with all interest (if any) accrued thereon), without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which Banco Santander will expressly waive, anything contained in the ordinary senior debt securities of such series to the contrary notwithstanding, unless, prior thereto, all Ordinary Senior Debt Security Events of Default in respect of the ordinary senior debt securities of such series shall have been cured.

Notwithstanding the preceding paragraph, under Spanish law, interest on debt instruments accruing after commencement of insolvency proceedings against the issuer may not be declared as due and payable after the commencement of insolvency proceedings against the issuer.

Notwithstanding any contrary provisions, nothing shall impair the right of a holder, absent the holder’s consent, to sue for any payments due but unpaid with respect to the ordinary senior debt securities.

Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default

Unless the relevant prospectus supplement provides otherwise, subject to the conditions described below, if any of the following events occurs and is continuing with respect to the second ranking senior debt securities of any series it shall constitute a “Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default”:

Under the terms of the second ranking senior debt securities indenture, no exercise of a resolution tool or resolution power by the Relevant Resolution Authority or any action in compliance therewith shall constitute a Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default.

If a Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default occurs as set forth in paragraph (i) above, then the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the second ranking senior debt securities of that series may institute proceedings for the winding up or dissolution of Banco Santander but may take no further action in respect of such default.

If a Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default occurs as set forth in paragraph (ii) above, then the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the second ranking senior debt securities of that series may declare the second ranking senior debt securities of such series immediately due and payable whereupon the second ranking senior debt securities of such series shall, when permitted by applicable Spanish insolvency law, become immediately due and payable at their Early Termination Amount together with all interest (if any) accrued thereon.

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Without prejudice to paragraphs (i) and (ii) above, the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the second ranking senior debt securities of any series may at their discretion and without further notice, institute such proceedings against Banco Santander as they may think fit to enforce any obligation, condition or provision binding on Banco Santander under the second ranking senior debt securities of such series, provided that, except as provided in (ii) winding up above, Banco Santander shall not as a consequence of such proceedings be obliged to pay any sum or sums representing or measured by reference to principal or interest in respect of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series sooner than the same would otherwise have been payable by it or any damages.

Notwithstanding any contrary provisions, nothing shall impair the right of a holder, absent the holder’s consent, to sue for any payments due but unpaid with respect to the second ranking senior debt securities of any series

Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default

Unless the relevant prospectus supplement provides otherwise, subject to the conditions described below, if any of the following events occurs and is continuing with respect to the subordinated debt securities of any series it shall constitute a “Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default”:

Under the terms of the subordinated debt securities indenture, no exercise of a resolution tool or resolution power by the Relevant Resolution Authority or any action in compliance therewith shall constitute a Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default.

If a Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default occurs as set forth in paragraph (i) above, then the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the subordinated debt securities of that series may institute proceedings for the winding up or dissolution of Banco Santander but may take no further action in respect of such default.

If a Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default occurs as set forth in paragraph (ii) above, then the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the subordinated debt securities of that series may declare the subordinated debt securities of such series immediately due and payable whereupon the subordinated debt securities of such series shall, when permitted by applicable Spanish insolvency law, become immediately due and payable at their Early Termination Amount together with all interest (if any) accrued thereon.

Without prejudice to paragraphs (i) and (ii) above, the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the subordinated debt securities of any series may at their discretion and without further notice, institute such proceedings against Banco Santander as they may think fit to enforce any obligation, condition or provision binding on Banco Santander under the subordinated debt securities of such series, provided that, except as provided in (ii) winding up above, Banco Santander shall not as a consequence of such proceedings be obliged to pay any sum or sums representing or measured by reference to principal or interest in respect of the subordinated debt securities of such series sooner than the same would otherwise have been payable by it or any damages.

Notwithstanding any contrary provisions, nothing shall impair the right of a holder, absent the holder’s consent, to sue for any payments due but unpaid with respect to the subordinated debt securities of any series.

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Events of Default and Defaults - General

The Trustee may without prejudice to its rights in respect of any subsequent Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default from time to time and at any time waive any Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default or authorize any proposed Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default by Banco Santander, provided that in its opinion the interests of the holders shall not be materially prejudiced thereby and, provided, further, that the Trustee shall not exercise any powers conferred on it by this clause in contravention of any notice in writing to the Trustee made pursuant to the terms described under “—Limitations on Suits” above but no such notice shall affect any waiver or authorization previously given or made.

The holder or holders of not less than a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of any series may waive any past Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default, except an Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default in respect of the payment of interest, if any, or principal of (or premium, if any) or payments on, any debt security or a covenant or provision of the applicable indenture which cannot be modified or amended without the consent of each holder of debt securities of such series.

Subject to the provisions of the applicable indenture relating to the duties of the Trustee, if an Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default occurs and is continuing with respect to the debt securities of any series, the Trustee will be under no obligation to any holder or holders of the debt securities of the series, unless they have offered indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee in its sole discretion. Subject to the indenture provisions for the indemnification of the Trustee, the holder or holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of any series shall have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee with respect to the series, if the direction is not in conflict with any rule of law or with the applicable indenture and the Trustee does not determine that the action would be unjustly prejudicial to the holder or holders of any debt securities of any series not taking part in that direction. The Trustee may take any other action that it deems proper which is not inconsistent with that direction.

The indentures provide that the Trustee will, within 90 days after the occurrence of an Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default with respect to the debt securities of any series, give to each holder of the debt securities of such series notice of the Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default of which the Trustee has received written notice, unless the Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default has been cured or waived. However, the Trustee shall be protected in withholding notice if it determines in good faith that withholding notice is in the interest of the holders.

Neither a cancellation of debt securities of any series, a reduction, in part or in full, of the principal amount of debt securities of any series or any accrued and unpaid interest on such debt securities, the conversion thereof into another security or obligation of Banco Santander or another person, in each case, as a result of the exercise of the Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority with respect to Banco Santander, nor the exercise of any Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority with respect to such debt securities, will be an event of default or otherwise constitute non-performance of a contractual obligation, or entitle the holders of such securities to any remedies, which are hereby expressly waived.

Substitution of Issuer

Banco Santander may, without the consent of the holders of any of the debt securities of any series, consolidate or amalgamate with, merge into any other corporation or convey or transfer or lease Banco Santander’s properties and assets substantially as an entirety to any person, provided that (a) any successor corporation formed by any such consolidation, amalgamation or merger, or any transferee or lessee of such assets, is a company organized under the laws of any part of the European Union that assumes, by a supplemental indenture, Banco Santander’s obligations

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on the debt securities of such series and under the applicable indenture, and such supplemental indenture is executed by Banco Santander and such successor entity, if applicable, and delivered to the Trustee, in form satisfactory to the Trustee; (b) immediately after giving effect to such consolidation, amalgamation, merger, conveyance or transfer, no Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default, as applicable and no event which, after notice or lapse of time or both, would become an Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default, as applicable, shall have occurred and be continuing; and (c) Banco Santander shall have delivered to the Trustee an officer’s certificate and an opinion of counsel stating that such consolidation, amalgamation, merger, conveyance or transfer and such supplemental indenture, as the case may be, comply with the indenture and all conditions precedent have been complied with.

Any direct or indirect subsidiary of Banco Santander may assume the obligations of Banco Santander under any series of debt securities, subject to the prior consent of the European Central Bank, if required, with respect to any series of subordinated debt securities or debt securities, without the consent of the holders of any series of debt securities, provided that (a) the successor entity shall expressly assume such obligations by an amendment to the relevant indenture, executed by Banco Santander and such successor entity, if applicable, and delivered to the Trustee, in form satisfactory to the Trustee, and Banco Santander shall, by amendment to the relevant indenture, unconditionally guarantee all of the obligations of such successor entity under the debt securities of such series and the relevant indenture as so modified by such amendment; (b) immediately after giving effect to such assumption of obligations, no Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default, as applicable, and no event which, after notice or lapse of time or both, would become an Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default, as applicable, shall have occurred and be continuing; and (c) Banco Santander shall have delivered to the Trustee an officer’s certificate and an opinion of counsel in such forms as are required in the relevant indenture.

In the event of any assumption, Additional Amounts under the debt securities of any series will be payable for taxes imposed by the jurisdiction of incorporation or tax residence of the assuming entity (subject to exceptions equivalent to those that apply to the obligation to pay Additional Amounts for taxes imposed by the laws of Spain) rather than taxes imposed by Spain. Additional Amounts for payments of interest or principal due prior to the date of the assumption will be payable only for taxes imposed by Spain. The assuming corporation will also be entitled to redeem the debt securities of any series in the circumstances described above under the section “ — Early Redemption for Taxation Reasons ” for any change or amendment to, or change in the application or official interpretation of, the laws or regulations of the assuming entity’s jurisdiction of incorporation or tax residence, which change or amendment must, in the case of a substituted issuer, occur subsequent to the date of such assumption if the assuming entity is not incorporated or tax resident in Spain. Upon such assumption, Banco Santander will be released from all its obligations under the applicable debt securities and indentures other than in respect of the guarantee described above.

An assumption of the obligations of Banco Santander under any series of debt securities might be considered for U.S. federal income tax purposes to be an exchange by the holders of the debt securities of such series for new debt securities, resulting in recognition of taxable gain or loss for these purposes and possible other adverse tax consequences for such holders. Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal, state and local income tax consequences of an assumption.

Waiver of Right of Set-off

Subject to applicable law, neither any holder or beneficial owner of the second ranking senior debt securities of any series, the subordinated debt securities of any series nor the Trustee acting on behalf of the holders of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or the subordinated debt securities of such series, may exercise, claim or plead any right of set-off, compensation or retention in respect of any amount owed to it by Banco Santander in respect of, or arising under, or in connection with, the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or the second ranking senior debt securities indenture or the subordinated debt securities of such series or the subordinated debt securities indenture, as applicable, and each holder and beneficial owner of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series and the subordinated debt securities of such series, by virtue of its holding of any second ranking senior debt securities of such series or any interest therein or any subordinated debt securities of such series or any interest therein, as applicable, and the Trustee acting on behalf of such holders, shall be deemed to have waived all such rights of set-off, compensation or retention. If, notwithstanding the above, any amounts due and

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payable to any holder or beneficial owner of a second ranking senior debt security of any series or any interest therein or to any holder or beneficial owner of a subordinated debt security of any series or any interest therein by Banco Santander in respect of, or arising under, the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or the subordinated debt securities of such series are discharged by set-off, such holder or beneficial owner shall, subject to applicable law, immediately pay an amount equal to the amount of such discharge to Banco Santander (or, if the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation of Banco Santander shall have occurred, the liquidator or administrator of Banco Santander, as the case may be) and, until such time as payment is made, shall hold an amount equal to such amount in trust (where possible) or otherwise for Banco Santander (or the liquidator or administrator of Banco Santander, as the case may be) and, accordingly, any such discharge shall be deemed not to have taken place.

Substitution and Variation

With respect to second ranking senior debt securities of any series, if a TLAC/MREL Disqualification Event, a tax event that would entitle Banco Santander to redeem the debt securities as set forth under “—Redemption and Repurchase—Early Redemption for Taxation Reasons” or Alignment Event occurs and is continuing, Banco Santander may substitute all (but not some) of the second ranking senior debt securities of any series or modify the terms of all (but not some) of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series, without any requirement for the consent or approval of the holders of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series, so that they are substituted for, or varied to, become, or remain, Qualifying Notes, subject to having given not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice to the holders of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series in accordance with the terms described under “— Notices ” and to the Trustee (which notice shall be irrevocable and shall specify the date for substitution or, as applicable, variation), and subject to obtaining Supervisory Permission therefor as required under Applicable TLAC/MREL Regulations, if required.

With respect to subordinated debt securities of any series, if a Capital Disqualification Event or a tax event that would entitle Banco Santander to redeem the debt securities as set forth under “—Redemption and Repurchase—Early Redemption for Taxation Reasons” occurs and is continuing, Banco Santander may substitute all (but not some) of the subordinated debt securities of any series or modify the terms of all (but not some) of the subordinated debt securities of such series, without any requirement for the consent or approval of the holders of the subordinated debt securities of such series, so that they are substituted for, or varied to, become, or remain, Qualifying Notes, subject to having given not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice to the holders of the subordinated debt securities of such series in accordance with the terms described under “— Notices ” and to the Trustee (which notice shall be irrevocable and shall specify the date for substitution or, as applicable, variation), and subject to obtaining Regulator consent, if required.

Any such notice shall specify the relevant details of the manner in which such substitution or variation shall take effect and where the holders of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or subordinated debt securities of such series, as applicable, can inspect or obtain copies of the new terms and conditions of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or subordinated debt securities of such series, as applicable. Such substitution or variation will be effected without any cost or charge to such holders.

The second ranking senior debt securities of any series and subordinated debt securities of any series, as applicable, shall cease to bear interest from (an including) the date of substitution thereof.

Any holder or beneficial owner of the second ranking senior debt securities of any series or subordinated debt securities of any series, as applicable, shall, by virtue of its acquisition of the second ranking senior debt securities of any series or any beneficial interest therein or the subordinated debt securities of any series or any beneficial interest therein, as applicable, be deemed to accept the substitution or variation of the terms of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or subordinated debt security of such series, as applicable, and to grant to Banco Santander full power and authority to take any action and/or to execute and deliver any document in the name and/or on behalf of such holder which is necessary or convenient to complete the substitution or variation of the terms of the second ranking senior debt securities of such series or subordinated debt securities of such series, as applicable.

Governing Law

The debt securities and the indentures will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York (without giving effect to the choice of law provisions), except that the authorization and

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execution by Banco Santander of the indentures and the debt securities, certain provisions of the debt securities and the indentures related to the status of the debt securities shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Spanish law.

Agreement and Acknowledgement With Respect to the Exercise of the Bail-in Power

Notwithstanding any other term of the debt securities of any series or any other agreements, arrangements, or understandings between Banco Santander and any holder of the debt securities of any series, by its acquisition of the debt securities of any series, each holder (which, for the purposes of this clause, includes each holder of a beneficial interest in the debt securities of any series) acknowledges, accepts, consents to and agrees to be bound by the exercise of any Bail-in Power (as defined herein) by the Relevant Resolution Authority that may result in the write-down or cancellation of all or a portion of the Amounts Due on the debt securities and/or the conversion of all or a portion of the Amounts Due on the debt securities into shares or other securities or other obligations of Banco Santander or another person, including by means of a variation to the terms of the debt securities to give effect to the exercise by the Relevant Resolution Authority of such Bail-in Power. Each holder of the debt securities further acknowledges and agrees that the rights of the holders of the debt securities are subject to—and will be varied, if necessary, so as to give effect to— the exercise of any Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority.

For these purposes, the “Amounts Due” are the principal amount of, premium, if any, together with any accrued but unpaid interest, and Additional Amounts, if any, due on the debt securities of any series. References to such amounts will include amounts that have become due and payable, but which have not been paid, prior to the exercise of the Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority.

For these purposes, a “Bail-in Power” means any statutory write-down and/or conversion power existing from time to time under any laws, regulations, rules or requirements in effect in the Kingdom of Spain relating to the resolution of Regulated Entities applicable to Banco Santander or other Regulated Entities of the Group, including (but not limited to) (i) the transposition of the BRRD (including but not limited to, Law 11/2015, Royal Decree 1012/2015 and any other implementing regulations) as amended or superseded from time to time, (ii) Regulation (EU) No. 806/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 July 2014, establishing uniform rules and a uniform procedure for the resolution of credit institutions and certain investment firms in the framework of the Single Resolution Mechanism and the Single Resolution Fund and amending Regulation (EU) No. 1093/2010 (as amended or superseded from time to time, the “SRM Regulation”) and (iii) the instruments, rules and standards created thereunder, pursuant to which any obligation of a Regulated Entity (or an affiliate of such Regulated Entity) can be reduced, cancelled and/or converted into shares or other securities or obligations of such Regulated Entity (or affiliate of such Regulated Entity) or any other person.

“Regulated Entities” means any legal person to which BRRD, as implemented in the Kingdom of Spain (including but not limited to, Law 11/2015, Royal Decree 1012/2015 and any other implementing regulations) as amended or superseded from time to time), the SRM Regulation, or any other Spanish law relating to Bail-in Power, applies, which includes, certain credit entities, investment firms, and certain parent or holding companies.

Upon Banco Santander being informed or notified by the Relevant Resolution Authority of the actual exercise of the date from which the Bail-in Power is effective with respect to the debt securities, Banco Santander will provide a written notice to the holders of the debt securities of such series through DTC without delay regarding such exercise of Bail-in Power. Banco Santander will also deliver a copy of such notice to the Trustee for information purposes. Any delay or failure by Banco Santander to give notice shall not affect the validity and enforceability of the Bail-in Power nor the effects on the debt securities described in this clause.

The exercise of the Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority with respect to the debt securities shall not constitute an Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default and the terms and conditions of the debt securities shall continue to apply in relation to the residual principal amount of, or outstanding amount payable with respect to, the debt securities subject to any modification of the amount of distributions payable to reflect the reduction of the principal amount, and any further modification of the terms that the Relevant Resolution Authority may decide in accordance with applicable laws and regulations relating to the resolution of credit institutions, investment firms and/or Group entities incorporated in the relevant Member State.

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No repayment or payment of Amounts Due, if any, on the debt securities of any series, will become due and payable or be paid after the exercise of any Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority if and to the extent such amounts have been reduced, converted, cancelled, amended or altered as a result of such exercise.

By its acquisition of the debt securities of any series, each holder of the debt securities of such series, (which, for the purposes of this clause, includes each holder of a beneficial interest in the debt securities of such series), to the extent permitted by the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (“Trust Indenture Act”), will waive any and all claims, in law and/or in equity, against the Trustee for, agree not to initiate a suit against the Trustee in respect of, and agree that the Trustee will not be liable for, any action that the Trustee takes, or abstains from taking, in either case in accordance with the exercise of the Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority with respect to the debt securities of such series.

Additionally, by its acquisition of the debt securities of any series, each holder of the debt securities of such series acknowledges and agrees that, upon the exercise of the Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority:

(i) the Trustee will not be required to take any further directions from the holders of the debt securities of such series with respect to any portion of the debt securities of such series that are written-down, converted to equity and/or cancelled under the relevant indenture, which authorizes holders of a majority in aggregate outstanding principal amount of the debt securities of such series to direct certain actions relating to the debt securities of such series; and

(ii) the relevant indenture will not impose any duties upon the Trustee whatsoever with respect to the exercise of the Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority;

provided, however , that notwithstanding the exercise of the Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority, so long as the debt securities of any series remain outstanding, there will at all times be a Trustee for the debt securities of such series in accordance with the relevant indenture, and the resignation and/or removal of the Trustee and the appointment of a successor Trustee will continue to be governed by the relevant indenture, including to the extent no additional supplemental indenture or amendment is agreed upon in the event the debt securities of such series remain outstanding following the completion of the exercise of the Bail-in Power.

By its acquisition of the debt securities of any series, each holder of the debt securities of such series acknowledges and agrees that neither a cancellation or deemed cancellation of the principal or interest (in each case, in whole or in part), nor the exercise of the Bail-in Power by the Relevant Resolution Authority with respect to the debt securities of such series will give rise to a default for purposes of Section 315(b) (Notice of Default) and Section 315(c) (Duties of the Trustee in Case of Default) of the Trust Indenture Act.

By purchasing the debt securities of any series, each holder (including each beneficial owner) of the debt securities of such series shall be deemed to have authorized, directed and requested DTC and any direct participant in DTC or other intermediary through which it holds the debt securities of such series to take any and all necessary action, if required, to implement the exercise of the Bail-in Power with respect to the debt securities of such series as it may be imposed, without any further action or direction on the part of such holder.

Each holder of the debt securities also acknowledges and agrees that the foregoing description of the Bail-in Power and its exercise is exhaustive on the matters described herein to the exclusion of any other agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to the application of any Bail-in Power to the debt securities.

Discharge, Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance

Banco Santander may discharge certain obligations to holders of any series of debt securities that have not already been delivered to the applicable trustee for cancellation and that have become due and payable, will become due and payable at their stated maturity within one year or, if redeemable at the option of Banco Santander, are called for redemption within one year, by depositing or causing to be deposited with the applicable trustee, in trust, funds in an amount sufficient, without reinvestment, in the opinion of an internationally recognized firm of independent public accountants, to pay and discharge the entire indebtedness on the debt securities of such series, including principal, interest, premium and any additional amounts to the date of such deposit (if the debt securities of such series have become due and payable) or to the maturity date of the debt securities of such series, as the case may be.

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Banco Santander may also elect to have its obligations under the relevant indenture discharged with respect to the outstanding debt securities of any series (“legal defeasance”). Legal defeasance means that Banco Santander will be deemed to have paid and discharged the entire indebtedness represented by the outstanding debt securities of such series under the relevant indenture, except for:

In addition, Banco Santander may elect to have its obligations released with respect only to certain covenants in the relevant indentures (“covenant defeasance”). Any omission to comply with any obligations so released will not constitute a default or an Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default, as applicable, with respect to the debt securities of any series.

In order to exercise either legal defeasance or covenant defeasance with respect to outstanding debt securities of or within any series:

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Unless otherwise provided in the relevant prospectus supplement, if, after Banco Santander has deposited funds or U.S. government obligations to effect legal defeasance or covenant defeasance with respect to the debt securities of any series,

the indebtedness represented by the debt securities of such series shall be deemed to have been and will be fully discharged and satisfied through the payment of the principal or interest, premium, and any additional amounts on the debt securities of such series as they becomes due out of the proceeds yielded by converting the amount or other property so deposited into the currency in which the debt securities of such series become payable as a result of such election or such conversion event based on the applicable market exchange rate for such currency in effect on the second business day prior to such payment date, except, with respect to a conversion event, for such foreign currency in effect at the time of the conversion event.

A “conversion event” means the cessation of use of (i) a foreign currency both by the government of the country which issued such currency and for the settlement of transactions by a central bank or other public institutions of or within the international banking community, or (ii) the euro both within the European monetary system and for the settlement of transactions by public institutions of or within the EU.

In the event Banco Santander effects covenant defeasance with respect to any series of debt securities and the debt securities of such series are declared due and payable because of the occurrence of any Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default, as applicable, the amount in money and U.S. government obligations deposited in trust will be sufficient to pay amounts due on the debt securities of such series at the time of their stated maturity. They may not, however, be sufficient to pay amounts due on the debt securities of such series at the time of the acceleration resulting from such Ordinary Senior Debt Security Event of Default, Second Ranking Senior Debt Security Event of Default or Subordinated Debt Security Event of Default, as applicable. In this case, Banco Santander will remain liable to make payment of such amounts due at the time of acceleration.

The relevant prospectus supplement may further describe the provisions permitting legal defeasance or covenant defeasance, including any modifications to the provisions described above, with respect to the debt securities of a particular series.

Upon the exercise of the Bail-in Power with respect to a series of debt securities which results in the cancellation, or the conversion into other securities, of all the principal amount of, and interest on the debt securities of such series or the debt securities of such series otherwise ceasing to be outstanding, the relevant indenture shall be satisfied and discharged as to such series.

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Limitation on Suits

No holder of debt securities will be entitled to proceed directly against Banco Santander, except as described below.

Subject to any further limitations provided in the relevant prospectus supplement and supplemental indenture establishing any series of debt securities, before a holder of the debt securities may bypass the Trustee and bring its own lawsuit or other formal legal action or take other steps to enforce its rights or protect its interests relating to the debt securities, the following must occur:

Notwithstanding any other provision of the debt securities indenture or the relevant debt securities, the right of any holder of debt securities to receive payment of the principal amount of and interest on, the debt securities, on or after the due dates thereof or to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment on or after such respective dates, will not be impaired or affected without the consent of such holder.

Notices

All notices to holders of registered debt securities shall be validly given if in writing and mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to them at their respective addresses in the register maintained by the Trustee.

If and for so long as the debt securities of the relevant series are admitted to trading on a stock exchange, notices will also be given in accordance with any applicable requirements of such stock exchange.

No Obligations to Beneficial Owners

None of Banco Santander, the Trustee, the paying agent or the debt security registrar shall have any responsibility or obligation to any beneficial owner in a global security, an agent member or other person with respect to the accuracy of the records of the depositary or its nominee or of any agent member, with respect to any ownership interest in the debt securities or with respect to the delivery to any agent member, beneficial owner or other person (other than the depository) of any notice (including any notice of redemption) or the payment of any amount, under or with respect to such debt securities. All notices and communications to be given to the holders and all payments to be made to holders under the debt securities and the respective indenture shall be given or made only to or upon the order of the registered holders (which shall be the depositary or its nominee in the case of the global security). The rights of beneficial owners in the global security shall be exercised only through the depositary subject to the applicable procedures. Banco Santander, the Trustee, the paying agent and the debt security registrar shall be entitled to rely and shall be fully protected in relying upon information furnished by the depositary with respect to its members, participants and any beneficial owners. Banco Santander, the Trustee, the paying agent and the debt security registrar shall be entitled to deal with the depositary, and any nominee thereof, that is the registered holder of any global security for all purposes of the indenture relating to such global security (including the payment of principal, premium, if any, and interest and additional amounts, if any, and the giving of instructions or directions by or to the owner or holder of a beneficial ownership interest in such global security) as the sole holder of such

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global security and shall have no obligations to the beneficial owners thereof. None of Banco Santander, the Trustee, the paying agent or the debt security registrar shall have any responsibility or liability for any acts or omissions of the depositary with respect to such global security, for the records of any such depositary, including records in respect of beneficial ownership interests in respect of any such global security, for any transactions between the depositary and any agent member or between or among the depositary, any such agent member and/or any holder or owner of a beneficial interest in such global security, or for any transfers of beneficial interests in any such global security.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to any global security, nothing herein shall prevent Banco Santander, the Trustee, or any agent of Banco Santander or the Trustee from giving effect to any written certification, proxy or other authorization furnished by any depositary (or its nominee), as a holder, with respect to such global security or shall impair, as between such depositary and owners of beneficial interests in such global security, the operation of customary practices governing the exercise of the rights of such depositary (or its nominee) as holder of such global security.

Subsequent Holders’ Agreement

Holders and beneficial owners of the debt securities of any series or beneficial interests therein that acquire the debt securities of such series in the secondary market shall be deemed to acknowledge, agree to be bound by and consent to the same provisions specified herein to the same extent as the holders and beneficial owners of the debt securities of such series that acquire the debt securities of such series upon their initial issuance, including, without limitation, with respect to the acknowledgment and agreement to be bound by and consent to the terms of the debt securities of such series, including in relation to the Bail-in Power.

The Trustee

The Bank of New York Mellon acting through its London Branch, is the Trustee under the indentures with respect to the debt securities. The Trustee shall have and be subject to all the duties and responsibilities specified with respect to an indenture Trustee under the Trust Indenture Act. Subject to the provisions of the relevant indentures and the Trust Indenture Act, the Trustee is under no obligation to exercise any of the powers vested in it by the indentures at the request of any holder of debt securities, unless offered indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee in its sole discretion by the holder against the costs, expense and liabilities which might be incurred thereby. Banco Santander and certain of its subsidiaries maintain deposit accounts and conduct other banking transactions with The Bank of New York Mellon in the ordinary course of their business. The Bank of New York Mellon is also the book-entry depositary and Principal Paying Agent with respect to Banco Santander’s debt securities.

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DESCRIPTION OF CONTINGENT CONVERTIBLE CAPITAL SECURITIES

The following is a summary of the general terms that will apply to any contingent convertible capital securities that may be offered by Banco Santander.

Each time that Banco Santander issues contingent convertible capital securities, it will file a prospectus supplement and/or free writing prospectus with the SEC, which investors should read carefully. The prospectus supplement and/or free writing prospectus will summarize specific financial terms of your security and may contain additional or different terms of those contingent convertible capital securities to those described in this prospectus. All references in this prospectus to a prospectus supplement in respect of any series of securities include references to a free writing prospectus if a free writing prospectus is filed to set forth any terms of such series. The terms presented here, together with the terms contained in the prospectus supplement, will be a description of the material terms of the contingent convertible capital securities, but if there is any inconsistency between the terms presented here and those in the prospectus supplement, those in the prospectus supplement will apply and will replace those presented here. Therefore, the statements made below in this section may not apply to each investor’s contingent convertible capital security. Contingent convertible capital securities will be issued by Banco Santander under a contingent convertible capital securities indenture. The contingent convertible capital securities indenture is a contract between Banco Santander, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee. The contingent convertible capital securities indenture does not limit Banco Santander’s ability to incur additional indebtedness, including the issuance of further contingent convertible capital securities. Investors should also read the contingent convertible capital securities indenture and any related supplemental indenture establishing such contingent convertible capital convertible securities, which have been filed with the SEC as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.

General

The contingent convertible capital securities are Banco Santander’s perpetual subordinated convertible debt securities mandatorily convertible into Banco Santander’s ordinary shares only upon the occurrence of certain events. The contingent convertible capital securities are not deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency of the United States or the Kingdom of Spain.

Banco Santander may issue contingent convertible capital securities in one or more series. The relevant prospectus supplement for any particular series of contingent convertible capital securities will describe the terms of the offered contingent convertible capital securities, including, but not limited to, some or all of the following terms, to the extent such terms differ from or are in addition to those set forth in this prospectus:

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Holders of contingent convertible capital securities shall have no voting rights except those described under the heading “ — Modification and Waiver ” below, unless and until such contingent convertible capital securities are converted into Banco Santander’s ordinary shares, in which case holders will have the voting rights described under “Description of Ordinary Shares”.

Certain Defined Terms

In this “Description of Contingent Convertible Capital Securities” the following terms have the following meanings:

“Accounting Currency” means EUR or such other primary currency used in the presentation of the Group’s accounts from time to time;

“Additional Tier 1 Instrument” means any contractually subordinated obligation ( crédito subordinado ) of Banco Santander according to Article 92.2º of the Spanish Insolvency Law, ranking as an additional tier 1 instrument ( instrumentos de capital adicional de nivel 1 ) under Additional Provision 14.2º. (c) of Law 11/2015;

“ADS Depositary” means The Bank of New York Mellon, as the depositary under Banco Santander’s ordinary share American Depository Facility or any successor ADS depositary;

“Agents” means the agents appointed in accordance with the contingent convertible capital securities indenture or applicable supplemental indenture;

“Applicable Banking Regulations” means at any time the laws, regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies relating to capital adequacy, resolution and/or solvency then applicable to Banco Santander and/or the Group including, without limitation to the generality of the foregoing, those regulations, requirements, guidelines and policies relating to capital adequacy, resolution and/or solvency then in effect of the Regulator (whether or not such requirements, guidelines or policies have the force of law and whether or not they are applied generally or specifically to Banco Santander and/or the Group);

“Available Distributable Items” means, in respect of the payment of a Distribution at any time, those profits and reserves (if any) of Banco Santander which are available, in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations for the payment of such Distribution.

As at the date of this registration statement, Article 4(1)(128) of the CRR provides as follows:

“Distributable Items” means the amount of the profits at the end of the last financial year plus any profits brought forward and reserves available for that purpose before distributions to holders of own funds instruments less any losses brought forward, profits which are non-distributable pursuant to provisions in legislation or the institution’s bylaws and sums placed to non-distributable reserves in accordance with applicable national law or the statutes of the institution, those losses and reserves being determined on the basis of the individual accounts of the institution and not on the basis of the consolidated accounts.

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“Business Day” means any day, other than Saturday or Sunday, that is neither a legal holiday nor a day on which banking institutions are authorized or required by law, regulation or executive order to close in the City of New York, London, Madrid or any other place or places where the Liquidation Preference of, or any Distributions on, or any Additional Amounts with respect to the contingent convertible capital securities of that series are payable.

“Calculation Agent” means the Trustee or such other person authorized by Banco Santander as the party responsible for calculating the Distributions and/or such other amount(s) from time to time in relation to any series of contingent convertible capital securities.

“Capital Event” means a change in Spanish law, Applicable Banking Regulations or any change in the application or official interpretation thereof that Banco Santander determines results or is likely to result in the entire outstanding aggregate Liquidation Preference of the contingent convertible capital securities of the relevant series ceasing to be included in, or counting towards, the Group’s or Banco Santander’s Tier 1 Capital;

“Cash Dividend” means (i) any Dividend which is to be paid or made in cash (in whatever currency), but other than falling within paragraph (b) of the definition of “Spin-Off” and (ii) any Dividend determined to be a Cash Dividend pursuant to paragraph (a) of the definition of “Dividend”, but a Dividend falling within paragraph (c) or (d) of the definition of “Dividend” shall be treated as being a Non-Cash Dividend;

“CET1 Capital” means at any time, the Common Equity Tier 1 Capital of Banco Santander or the Group, respectively, as calculated in accordance with Chapter 2 (Common Equity Tier 1 Capital) of Title I (Elements of own funds) of Part Two (Own Funds) of the CRR and/or Applicable Banking Regulations at such time, including any applicable transitional, phasing in or similar provisions;

“CET1 ratio” means, at any time, with respect to Banco Santander or the Group, as the case may be, the ratio (expressed as a percentage) of the aggregate amount (in the Accounting Currency) of the CET1 Capital of Banco Santander or the Group, respectively, at such time divided by the Risk Weighted Assets Amount of Banco Santander or the Group, respectively, at such time;

“Clearing System” means DTC or any of the European Clearing Systems, as applicable;

“Clearing System Contingent Convertible Capital Securities” means, for so long as any contingent convertible capital securities of a series is represented by a global contingent convertible capital security held by or on behalf of a Clearing System, any particular Liquidation Preference of such series of the contingent convertible capital securities shown in the records of a Clearing System as being held by a holder of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series;

“CNMV” means the Spanish Market Securities Commission ( Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores );

“Common Shares” means ordinary shares in the capital of Banco Santander, each of which confers on the holder one vote at general meetings of Banco Santander and is credited as fully paid up;

“Conversion Price” means, in respect of the Trigger Event Notice Date, if the Common Shares are:

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For the avoidance of doubt, the translation into U.S. dollars at the Prevailing Rate described above shall in no circumstances imply that any Common Share will be issued at a price of less than its nominal value expressed in the Share Currency.

“Conversion Settlement Date” means the date on which the relevant Common Shares are to be delivered following Trigger Conversion, which shall be as soon as practicable and in any event not later than one month following (or such other period as Applicable Banking Regulations may require) the Trigger Event Notice Date and notice of the expected Conversion Settlement Date and of the Conversion Price shall be given to holders of contingent convertible capital securities in accordance with “— Notices ” below not more than 10 Business Days following the Trigger Event Notice Date;

“Conversion Shares” means the number of Common Shares to be issued on Trigger Conversion in respect of each contingent convertible capital security of any series to be converted;

“CRD IV” means any or any combination of the CRD IV Directive, the CRR, and any CRD IV Implementing Measures;

“CRD IV Directive” means Directive 2013/36/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 June 2013 on access to the activity of credit institutions and the prudential supervision of credit institutions and investment firms, amending Directive 2002/87/EC and repealing Directives 2006/48/EC and 2006/49/EC or such other directive as may come into effect in place thereof;

“CRD IV Implementing Measures” means any regulatory capital rules implementing the CRD IV Directive or the CRR which may from time to time be introduced, including, but not limited to, delegated or implementing acts (regulatory technical standards) adopted by the European Commission, national laws and regulations, and regulations and guidelines issued by the Regulator, the European Banking Authority or any other relevant authority, which are applicable to Banco Santander (on a standalone basis) or the Group (on a consolidated basis);

“CRR” means Regulation (EU) No. 575/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 June 2013 on the prudential requirements for credit institutions and investment firms and amending Regulation (EU) No. 648/2012 or such other regulation as may come into effect in place thereof;

“Current Market Price” means, in respect of a Common Share at a particular date, the average of the daily Volume Weighted Average Price of a Common Share on each of the 5 consecutive dealing days ending on the dealing day immediately preceding such date (the “Relevant Period”) (rounded if necessary to the nearest cent with 0.5 cents being rounded upwards); provided that if at any time during the Relevant Period the Volume Weighted Average Price shall have been based on a price ex-Dividend (or ex-any other entitlement) and during some other part of that period the Volume Weighted Average Price shall have been based on a price cum-Dividend (or cum-any other entitlement), then:

and provided further that:

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In making any calculation or determination of Current Market Price, such adjustments (if any) shall be made as an Independent Financial Adviser determines in good faith appropriate to reflect any consolidation or sub-division of the Common Shares or any issue of Common Shares by way of capitalization of profits or reserves, or any like or similar event.

“dealing day” means a day on which the Relevant Stock Exchange or relevant stock exchange or securities market is open for business and on which Common Shares, Securities, Spin-Off Securities, options, warrants or other rights (as the case may be) may be dealt in (other than a day on which the Relevant Stock Exchange or relevant stock exchange or securities market is scheduled to or does close prior to its regular weekday closing time);

“Delivery Notice” means a notice in the form for the time being currently available from the specified office of any Paying and Conversion Agent or in such form as may be acceptable to DTC from time to time, which contains the relevant account and related details for the delivery of any ADSs or Common Shares and all relevant certifications and/or representations as may be required by applicable law and regulations (or is deemed to constitute the confirmation thereof), and which are required to be delivered in connection with a conversion of the contingent convertible capital securities and the delivery of the ADSs or Common Shares;

“Distribution” means the non-cumulative cash distribution in respect of the contingent convertible capital securities and a Distribution Period determined in accordance with “— Distributions ” below;

“Distribution Payment Date” shall have the meaning as determined in the relevant prospectus supplement;

“Distribution Period” means the period from and including one Distribution Payment Date (or, in the case of the first Distribution Period, the date of issuance) to but excluding the next Distribution Payment Date;

“Distribution Rate” means the rate at which the contingent convertible capital securities accrue Distributions in accordance with “— Distributions ” below;

“Dividend” means any dividend or distribution to Shareholders in respect of the Common Shares (including a Spin-Off) whether of cash, assets or other property (and for these purposes a distribution of assets includes without limitation an issue of Common Shares or other Securities credited as fully or partly paid up by way of capitalization of profits or reserves), and however described and whether payable out of share premium account, profits, retained earnings or any other capital or revenue reserve or account, and including a distribution or payment to Shareholders upon or in connection with a reduction of capital provided that:

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“equity share capital” means, in relation to any entity, its issued share capital excluding any part of that capital which, in respect of dividends and capital, does not carry any right to participate beyond a specific amount in a distribution;

“EUR”, “€” and “euro” means the currency introduced at the start of the third stage of European economic and monetary union pursuant to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, as amended;

“European Clearing System” means Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V. (“Euroclear Bank”), as operator of the Euroclear System (“Euroclear”) and/or Clearstream Banking, société anonyme (“Clearstream Luxembourg”);

“Existing Shareholders” has the meaning given in the definition of “Newco Scheme”;

“Fair Market Value” means, with respect to any property on any date, the fair market value of that property as determined by an Independent Financial Adviser in good faith provided that (a) the Fair Market Value of a Cash Dividend shall be the amount of such Cash Dividend; (b) the Fair Market Value of any other cash amount shall be the amount of such cash; (c) where Securities, Spin-Off Securities, options, warrants or other rights are publicly traded on a stock exchange or securities market of adequate liquidity (as determined by an Independent Financial Adviser in good faith), the Fair Market Value (i) of such Securities or Spin-Off Securities shall equal the arithmetic mean of the daily Volume Weighted Average Prices of such Securities or Spin-Off Securities and (ii) of such options, warrants or other rights shall equal the arithmetic mean of the daily closing prices of such options, warrants or other rights, in the case of both (i) and (ii) above during the period of 5 dealing days on the relevant stock exchange or securities market commencing on such date (or, if later, the first such dealing day such Securities, Spin-Off Securities, options, warrants or other rights are publicly traded) or such shorter period as such Securities, Spin-Off Securities, options, warrants or other rights are publicly traded; and (d) where Securities, Spin-Off Securities, options, warrants or other rights are not publicly traded on a stock exchange or securities market of adequate liquidity (as aforesaid), the Fair Market Value of such Securities, Spin-Off Securities, options, warrants or other rights shall be determined by an Independent Financial Adviser in good faith, on the basis of a commonly accepted market valuation method and taking account of such factors as it considers appropriate, including the market price per Common Share, the dividend yield of a Common Share, the volatility of such market price, prevailing interest rates and the terms of such Securities, Spin-Off Securities, options, warrants or other rights, including as to the expiry date and exercise price (if any) thereof. Such amounts shall, in the case of (a) above, be translated into the Share Currency (if such Cash Dividend is declared or paid or payable in a currency other than the Share Currency) at the rate of exchange used to determine the amount payable to Shareholders who were paid or are to be paid or are entitled to be paid the Cash Dividend in the Share Currency; and in any other case, shall be translated into the Share Currency (if expressed in a currency other than the Share Currency) at the Prevailing Rate on that date. In addition, in the case of (a) and (b) above, the Fair Market Value shall be determined on a gross basis and disregarding any withholding or deduction required to be made for or on account of tax, and disregarding any associated tax credit;

“Floor Price” means the price per Common Share determined in the relevant prospectus supplement, subject to adjustment in accordance with “— Anti-Dilution Adjustment of the Floor Price ” below;

“Further Contingent Convertible Capital Securities” means any securities which are contingently convertible into Common Shares of Banco Santander pursuant to their terms in the event that the CET1 ratio of Banco Santander or the Group is less than a specified percentage;

“Iberclear” means the Spanish clearing and settlement system ( Sociedad de Gestión de los Sistemas de Registro, Compensación y Liquidación de Valores, S.A., Sociedad Unipersonal );

“Independent Financial Adviser” means an independent financial institution of international repute appointed by Banco Santander at its own expense;

“Initial Margin” means the percent per annum determined in the relevant prospectus supplement;

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“Law 11/2015” means Law 11/2015 of 18 June, on recovery and resolution of credit entities and investment firms ( Ley 11/2015, de 18 de junio , de recuperaci ó n y resoluci ó n de entidades de crédito y empresas de servicios de inversi ó n ) as amended from time to time;

“Liquidation Distribution” means the Liquidation Preference per contingent convertible capital security plus, if applicable, where not cancelled pursuant to, or otherwise subject to the limitations on payment set out in, “— Distributions ”, an amount equal to accrued and unpaid Distributions for the then current Distribution Period to (but excluding) the date of payment of the Liquidation Distribution;

“Liquidation Preference” shall have the meaning set forth in the relevant prospectus supplement;

“Maximum Distributable Amount” means any maximum distributable amount required to be calculated in accordance with Article 48 of Law 10/2014 and Articles 73 and 74 of Royal Decree 84/2015, each interpreted in light of Article 141 of the CRD IV Directive;

“Newco Scheme” means a scheme of arrangement or analogous proceeding (Scheme of Arrangement which effects the interposition of a limited liability company (“Newco”) between the Shareholders of Banco Santander immediately prior to the Scheme of Arrangement (the “Existing Shareholders”) and Banco Santander, provided that:

“Non-Cash Dividend” means any Dividend which is not a Cash Dividend, and shall include a Spin-Off;

“Parity Securities” means any preferred securities ( participaciones preferentes ) issued under Law 13/1985 and/or Royal Decree – Law 14/2013 of 29 November (“RD-L 14/2013”) and/or Law 10/2014 and/or under the CRR from time to time by Banco Santander or by any Subsidiary and which are guaranteed by Banco Santander or any preferential participations, preferential shares or preference shares ( acciones preferentes ) ranking pari passu with any preferred securities ( participaciones preferentes ) issued from time to time by Banco Santander or by any Subsidiary and which are guaranteed by Banco Santander or any other instrument issued or guaranteed by Banco Santander ranking pari passu with the contingent convertible capital securities;

“Paying and Conversion Agent” means the Principal Paying Agent and any other paying and conversion agent appointed in accordance with the contingent convertible capital securities indenture or any supplemental indenture and includes any successors thereto appointed from time to time in accordance with the contingent convertible capital securities indenture or any supplemental indenture;

“Payment Business Day” means (i) a day on which commercial banks and foreign exchange markets settle payments and are open for general business (including dealing in foreign exchange and foreign currency deposits) in New York City and London and (ii) in the case of contingent convertible capital securities in definitive form only, a day on which commercial banks and foreign exchange markets settle payments and are open for general business (including dealing in foreign exchange and foreign currency deposits) in the relevant place of presentation;

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“Prevailing Rate” means, in respect of any currencies on any day, the spot rate of exchange between the relevant currencies prevailing as at 12 noon (London time) on that date as appearing on or derived from Reuters page ECB37 or, if not available, from any other Reference Page or, if such a rate cannot be determined at such time, the rate prevailing as at 12 noon (London time) on the immediately preceding day on which such rate can be so determined or, if such rate cannot be so determined by reference to the Reference Page, the rate determined in such other manner as an Independent Financial Adviser in good faith shall prescribe;

“Principal Paying Agent” means any Person (which may include Banco Santander) authorized by Banco Santander to pay the Liquidation Preference of, or Distributions on, or any Additional Amounts with respect to, the contingent convertible capital securities of any series on behalf of Banco Santander. Unless otherwise specified in the applicable prospectus supplement, The Bank of New York Mellon, acting through its London Branch will act as Principal Paying Agent in respect of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series;

“Qualifying Notes” means, with respect to each series of contingent convertible capital securities, at any time, any securities issued directly by Banco Santander that have terms not otherwise materially less favorable to the holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series than the terms of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series, provided that Banco Santander shall have delivered a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander to that effect to the Trustee not less than five Business Days prior to (x) in the case of a substitution of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”, the issue date of the relevant securities or (y) in the case of a variation of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”, the date such variation becomes effective, provided that such securities shall:

(i) contain terms which comply with the then current requirements for their inclusion in the Tier 1 Capital of Banco Santander; and

(ii) carry the same rate of interest as the contingent convertible capital securities of such series prior to the relevant substitution or variation pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”; and

(iii) have the same denomination and aggregate outstanding principal amount as the contingent convertible capital securities prior to the relevant substitution or variation pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”; and

(iv) have the same date of maturity, if applicable, and the same dates for payment of interest as the contingent convertible capital securities prior to the relevant substitution or variation pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation”; and

(v) have at least the same ranking as the contingent convertible capital securities; and

(vi) not, immediately following such substitution or variation, be subject to a Capital Event and/or a Tax Event; and

(vii) be listed or admitted to trading on any stock exchange as selected by Banco Santander, if the contingent convertible capital securities were listed or admitted to trading on a stock exchange immediately prior to the relevant substitution or variation pursuant to “—Substitution and Variation.”

“Recognized Stock Exchange” means a regulated regularly operating, recognized stock exchange or securities market in an OECD member state;

“Redemption Price” means, per contingent convertible capital security, the Liquidation Preference plus, if applicable, where not cancelled pursuant to, or otherwise subject to the limitations on payment set out in “ — Distributions ”, an amount equal to accrued and unpaid Distributions for the then current Distribution Period to (but excluding) the date fixed for redemption of the contingent convertible capital securities of the relevant series;

“Reference Page” means the relevant page on Bloomberg or Reuters or such other information service provider that displays the relevant information;

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“Regulator” means the European Central Bank, the Bank of Spain or such other or successor authority exercising primary bank supervisory authority, in each case with respect to prudential matters in relation to Banco Santander and/or the Group from time to time;

“Relevant Resolution Authority” means the Spanish Fund for the Orderly Restructuring of Banks or the European Single Resolution Mechanism, as the case may be, according to Law 11/2015, and any other entity with the authority to exercise the Bail-in Power or any other resolution power from time to time.

“Relevant Stock Exchange” means the Spanish Stock Exchanges or if at the relevant time the Common Shares are not at that time listed and admitted to trading on the Spanish Stock Exchanges, the principal stock exchange or securities market on which the Common Shares are then listed, admitted to trading or quoted or accepted for dealing;

“Risk Weighted Assets Amount” means at any time, with respect to Banco Santander or the Group, as the case may be, the aggregate amount (in the Accounting Currency) of the risk weighted assets of Banco Santander or the Group, respectively, calculated in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations at such time;

“Scheme of Arrangement” has the meaning given in the definition of “Newco Scheme”;

“Securities” means any securities including, without limitation, shares in the capital of Banco Santander, or options, warrants or other rights to subscribe for or purchase or acquire shares in the capital of Banco Santander;

“Settlement Shares Depository” means a reputable independent financial institution, trust company or similar entity to be appointed by Banco Santander on or prior to any date when a function ascribed to the Settlement Shares Depository is required to be performed to perform such functions and who will hold Common Shares in Iberclear or any of its participating entities in a designated trust or custody account for the benefit of the holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series and otherwise on terms consistent with the terms of the contingent convertible capital securities and the contingent convertible capital securities indenture;

“Share Currency” means euro or such other currency in which the Common Shares are quoted or dealt in on the Relevant Stock Exchange at the relevant time or for the purposes of the relevant calculation or determination;

“Shareholders” means the holders of Common Shares;

“Spanish Companies Act” means the consolidated text of the Spanish Companies Act ( Ley de Sociedades de Capital ), as amended, approved by the Royal Decree Legislative 1/2010, of 2 July 2010;

“Spanish Stock Exchanges” means the Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao and Valencia stock exchanges and the Automated Quotation System -Continuous Market ( Sistema de Interconexión Bursátil -Mercado Continuo (SIBE ));

“Specified Date” has the meanings given in sub-paragraphs (d), (f), (g) and (h) of “— Anti-Dilution Adjustment of the Floor Price ” below, as applicable;

“Spin-Off Securities” means equity share capital of an entity other than Banco Santander or options, warrants or other rights to subscribe for or purchase equity share capital of an entity other than Banco Santander;

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“Subsidiary” means any entity over which Banco Santander may have, directly or indirectly, control in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations;

“Tax Event” in respect of any series of contingent convertible capital securities, means that as a result of any change in the laws or regulations of Spain or in either case of any political subdivision thereof or any authority or agency therein or thereof having power to tax or in the interpretation or administration of any such laws or regulations which becomes effective on or after the date of issue of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series Banco Santander shall determine that (a) Banco Santander would not be entitled to claim a deduction in computing taxation liabilities in Spain (as defined in “— Additional Amounts ” below) in respect of any Distribution to be made on the next Distribution Payment Date or the value of such deduction to Banco Santander would be materially reduced, or (b) Banco Santander would be required to pay Additional Amounts (as defined below), or (c) the applicable tax treatment of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series changes in a material way that was not reasonably foreseeable at the issue date;

“Tier 1 Capital” means at any time, with respect to Banco Santander or the Group, as the case may be, the Tier 1 capital of Banco Santander or the Group, respectively, as calculated by Banco Santander in accordance with Chapters 1, 2 and 3 (Tier 1 Capital, Common Equity Tier 1 Capital and Additional Tier 1 capital) of Title I (Elements of own funds) of Part Two (Own Funds) of the CRR and/or Applicable Banking Regulations at such time, including any applicable transitional, phasing in or similar provisions;

“Tier 2 Capital” means at any time, with respect to Banco Santander or the Group, as the case may be, the Tier 2 capital of Banco Santander or the Group, respectively, as calculated by Banco Santander in accordance with Chapter 4 (Tier 2 capital) of Title I (Elements of own funds) of Part Two (Own Funds) of the CRR and/or Applicable Banking Regulations at such time, including any applicable transitional, phasing in or similar provisions.

“Trigger Conversion” has the meaning given in “— Conversion Procedures ” below;

“Trigger Event” means if, at any time, the CET1 ratio of Banco Santander or the Group calculated in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations is less than 5.125 percent, as determined by Banco Santander or the Regulator;

“Trigger Event Notice” has the meaning given in “— Conversion Procedures ” below;

“Trigger Event Notice Date” means the date on which a Trigger Event Notice is given;

“U.S.$” and “U.S. dollars” means the lawful currency of the United States of America;

“U.S. Government Securities Business Day” means any day except for a Saturday, Sunday or a day on which the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association recommends that the fixed income departments of its members be closed for the entire day for the purposes of trading in U.S. government securities;

“Volume Weighted Average Price” means, in respect of a Common Share, Security or, as the case may be, a Spin-Off Security on any dealing day, the order book volume-weighted average price of a Common Share, Security or, as the case may be, a Spin-Off Security published by or derived (in the case of a Common Share) from the Reference Page or (in the case of a Security (other than Common Shares) or Spin-Off Security) from the principal stock exchange or securities market on which such Securities or Spin-Off Securities are then listed or quoted or dealt in, if any or, in any such case, such other source as shall be determined in good faith to be appropriate by an Independent Financial Adviser on such dealing day, provided that if on any such dealing day such price is not available or cannot otherwise be determined as provided above, the Volume Weighted Average Price of a Common Share, Security or a Spin-Off Security, as the case may be, in respect of such dealing day shall be the Volume Weighted Average Price, determined as provided above, on the immediately preceding dealing day on which the same can be so determined or as an Independent Financial Adviser might otherwise determine in good faith to be appropriate; and

“Voting Rights” means the right generally to vote at a general meeting of Shareholders of Banco Santander (irrespective of whether or not, at the time, stock of any other class or classes shall have, or might have, voting power by reason of the happening of any contingency).

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References to any act or statute or any provision of any act or statute shall be deemed also to refer to any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof or any statutory instrument, order or regulation made in accordance therewith or under such modification or re-enactment.

References to any issue or offer or grant to Shareholders or Existing Shareholders “as a class” or “by way of rights” shall be taken to be references to an issue or offer or grant to all or substantially all Shareholders or Existing Shareholders, as the case may be, other than Shareholders or Existing Shareholders, as the case may be, to whom, by reason of the laws of any territory or requirements of any recognised regulatory body or any other stock exchange or securities market in any territory or in connection with fractional entitlements, it is determined not to make such issue or offer or grant.

Payments

Banco Santander will make any payments of Distributions and Liquidation Preference on any particular series of contingent convertible capital securities on the dates and, in the case of payments of Distributions, in the amounts that are determined by the method of calculation described in, the relevant prospectus supplement. All payments in respect of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series will be subject in all cases to any fiscal or other laws and regulations applicable thereto in the place of payment (including FATCA, any regulations or agreements thereunder, any official interpretation thereof, any intergovernmental agreements with respect thereto, or any law implementing an intergovernmental agreement or any regulations or official interpretations relating thereto), but without prejudice to the provisions of “— Additional Amounts ” below.

Distributions

The contingent convertible capital securities of any series will accrue non-cumulative cash distributions (“Distributions”) as may be specified in, or determined in accordance with the provisions of, the relevant prospectus supplement.

Distributions Discretionary

Banco Santander may elect, in its sole and absolute discretion, to cancel the payment of any Distribution in whole or in part at any time that it deems necessary or desirable, and for any reason.

Distributions on the contingent convertible capital securities will be non-cumulative. Accordingly, if any Distribution (or part thereof) is not paid in respect of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series as a result of any election of Banco Santander to cancel such Distribution pursuant this section “— Distributions Discretionary ” or the limitations on payment set out in “— Restrictions on Payments ” below then the right of the holders to receive the relevant Distribution (or part thereof) in respect of the relevant Distribution Period will be extinguished and Banco Santander will have no obligation to pay such Distribution (or part thereof) accrued for such Distribution Period or to pay any interest thereon, whether or not Distributions on the contingent convertible capital securities of such series are paid in respect of any future Distribution Period.

No such election to cancel the payment of any Distribution (or part thereof) or non-payment of any Distribution (or part thereof) as a result of the limitations on payment set out in “— Restrictions on Payments ” below will constitute an event of default, an Enforcement Event or the occurrence of any event related to the insolvency of Banco Santander or entitle holders to take any action to cause such Distribution to be paid or the liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of Banco Santander or in any way limit or restrict Banco Santander from making any distribution or equivalent payment in connection with any instrument ranking junior to the contingent convertible capital securities of such series (including, without limitation, any CET1 Capital of Banco Santander or the Group) or in respect of any other Parity Security or other security.

Restrictions on Payments

To the extent that (i) Banco Santander has insufficient Available Distributable Items to make Distributions on the contingent convertible capital securities of such series scheduled for payment in the then current financial year and any equivalent payments scheduled to be made in the then current financial year in respect of any other Parity Securities or CET1 Capital securities then outstanding to the extent permitted by the Applicable Banking Regulations, in each case excluding any portion of such payments already accounted for in determining the Available Distributable Items, and/or (ii) the Regulator, in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations,

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requires Banco Santander to cancel the relevant Distribution in whole or in part, then Banco Santander will, without prejudice to the right above to cancel at its discretion the payment of any such Distributions on the contingent convertible capital securities of such series at any time, make partial or, as the case may be, no payment of the relevant Distribution on the contingent convertible capital securities of such series.

No Distribution will be made on the contingent convertible capital securities of any series until the Maximum Distributable Amount (if required) is calculated and if and to the extent that such payment would cause the Maximum Distributable Amount (if any) then applicable to Banco Santander and/or the Group to be exceeded.

Agreement to Distribution Cancellation

By acquiring contingent convertible capital securities, holders and beneficial owners of the contingent convertible capital securities acknowledge and agree that:

(a) Distributions are payable solely at Banco Santander’s discretion, and no amount of Distribution shall become or remain due and payable in respect of the relevant Distribution Period to the extent that it has been cancelled by Banco Santander at Banco Santander’s sole discretion and/or deemed cancelled as a result of our having insufficient Available Distributable Items or as a result of the Regulator requiring Banco Santander to cancel the Distributions or as a result of exceeding the Maximum Distributable Amount (if any) then applicable to Banco Santander and/or the Group; and

(b) a cancellation or deemed cancellation of Distributions (in each case, in whole or in part) in accordance with the terms of the contingent convertible capital securities indenture or applicable supplemental indenture and the contingent convertible capital securities shall not constitute an Enforcement Event or other default under the terms of the contingent convertible capital securities or the contingent convertible capital securities indenture or applicable supplemental indenture.

Distributions will only be due and payable on a Distribution Payment Date to the extent they are not cancelled or deemed cancelled previously or thereafter in accordance with the provisions described under “ — Distributions ”, “— Liquidation Distribution ” and “— Conversion Upon Trigger Event ”. Any Distributions cancelled or deemed cancelled (in each case, in whole or in part) in the circumstances described herein shall not be due and shall not accumulate or be payable at any time thereafter, and holders of the contingent convertible capital securities shall have no rights thereto or to receive any additional Distributions or compensation as a result of such cancellation or deemed cancellation.

Notice of Distribution Cancellation

If practicable, Banco Santander will provide notice of any cancellation or deemed cancellation of Distributions (in each case, in whole or in part) to the holders of the contingent convertible capital securities through the relevant Clearing System (or, if the contingent convertible capital securities are held in definitive form, to the holders of the contingent convertible capital securities directly at their addresses shown on the register for the contingent convertible capital securities) and to the Trustee directly on or prior to the relevant Distribution Payment Date. Failure to provide such notice will have no impact on the effectiveness of, or otherwise invalidate, any such cancellation or deemed cancellation of Distributions (and accordingly, such Distributions will not be due and payable), or give the holders of the contingent convertible capital securities any rights as a result of such failure.

Liquidation Distribution

Except as set forth in the following paragraph, in the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation of Banco Santander (a “Liquidation Event”), holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series (unless previously converted into Common Shares pursuant to “— Conversion Upon Trigger Event ” below) shall be entitled to receive out of the assets of Banco Santander available for distribution to holders of such series, the Liquidation Distribution. Such entitlement will arise before any distribution of assets is made to holders of Common Shares or any other instrument of Banco Santander ranking junior to the contingent convertible capital securities of such series.

If, before the occurrence of a Liquidation Event, the Trigger Event occurs but the relevant conversion of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series into Common Shares pursuant to “— Conversion Upon Trigger Event ” below is still to take place, holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series will

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be entitled to receive out of the relevant assets of Banco Santander a monetary amount equal to that which holders of such contingent convertible capital securities of such series would have received on any distribution of the assets of Banco Santander if such conversion had taken place immediately prior to such liquidation.

After payment of the relevant entitlement in respect of a contingent convertible capital security as described in this section, such contingent convertible capital security will confer no further right or claim to any of the remaining assets of Banco Santander.

Subordination

Unless previously converted into Common Shares pursuant to section “— Conversion Upon Trigger Event ” below, the payment obligations of Banco Santander under the contingent convertible capital securities on account of the Liquidation Preference or otherwise of principal constitute direct, unconditional, unsecured and subordinated obligations ( créditos subordinados) of Banco Santander and, in accordance with Additional Provision 14.2º of Law 11/2015, but subject to any other ranking that may apply as a result of any mandatory provision of law (or otherwise), upon the insolvency of Banco Santander for so long as the obligations of Banco Santander in respect of the contingent convertible capital securities constitute an Additional Tier 1 Instrument, rank:

Banco Santander agrees with respect to any series of contingent convertible capital securities and each holder of contingent convertible capital securities of any series, by his or her acquisition of a contingent convertible capital security, will be deemed to have agreed to the above described subordination. Each such holder will be deemed to have irrevocably waived his or her rights of priority which would otherwise be accorded to him or her under the laws of Spain, to the extent necessary to effectuate the subordination provisions of the contingent convertible capital security. In addition, each holder of contingent convertible capital securities of any series by his or her acquisition of the securities authorizes and directs the applicable trustee on his or her behalf to take such action as may be necessary or appropriate to effectuate the subordination of the relevant contingent convertible capital securities as provided in the contingent convertible capital securities indenture and as summarized herein and appoints the applicable trustee his or her attorney-in-fact for any and all such purposes.

Banco Santander may not issue, or guarantee the issue of, any Parity Securities or other instruments equivalent to Parity Securities, either directly or through a guarantee, ranking senior to the contingent convertible capital securities of any series, unless the terms and conditions of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series are amended so as to rank pari passu with any such issue of senior securities.

Redemption and Repurchase

The contingent convertible capital securities are perpetual and are only redeemable in accordance with the following provisions of the contingent convertible capital securities indenture described in this section “ — Redemption and Repurchase ”.

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Optional Redemption

Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus supplement, subject to certain exceptions described further below, the contingent convertible capital securities shall not be redeemable prior to the date specified in the relevant prospectus supplement. The contingent convertible capital securities of any series may be redeemed by Banco Santander following such date in whole but not in part, unless otherwise provided by the applicable prospectus supplement, subject to (i) the prior consent of the Regulator and (ii) the final paragraph of “Redemption Procedures” below, on the date or dates specified in the relevant prospectus supplement at the Redemption Price (and otherwise in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations then in force).

Pre-Conditions to Redemptions and Repurchases

Article 78(1) of the CRR provides that the Regulator will give its consent to a redemption of the contingent convertible capital securities provided that either of the following conditions is met:

(a) on or before such redemption of the contingent convertible capital securities, Banco Santander replaces the contingent convertible capital securities with instruments qualifying as Tier 1 Capital of an equal or higher quality on terms that are sustainable for the income capacity of Banco Santander; or

(b) Banco Santander has demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regulator that its Tier 1 Capital and Tier 2 Capital would, following such redemption, exceed the requirements set forth in Article 92(1) of the CRR and the combined buffer requirement as defined in point (6) of Article 128 of the CRD IV Directive by a margin that the Regulator may consider necessary on the basis of Article 104(3) of the CRD IV Directive.

Redemption Due to a Capital Event

Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus supplement, if, on or after the issue date of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series, (i) there is a Capital Event, and (ii) such circumstances are evidenced by the delivery by Banco Santander to the Trustee of a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander stating that the said circumstances prevail and describing the facts leading thereto and a copy of the Regulator’s consent to the redemption, the contingent convertible capital securities of such series may be redeemed, in whole but not in part, at the option of Banco Santander, subject to the prior consent of the Regulator and otherwise in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations then in force, at any time, at the Redemption Price.

Article 78(4) of the CRR provides that the Regulator may only permit Banco Santander to redeem any series contingent convertible capital securities before the fifth anniversary of the date of issuance of contingent convertible capital securities of such series in the case of a Capital Event if, in addition to meeting one of the conditions referred to in paragraphs (a) or (b) of Article 78(1) of the CRR (as described above), there is a change in the regulatory classification of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series that would be likely to result in their exclusion from own funds or reclassification as a lower quality form of own funds, the Regulator considers such change to be sufficiently certain and Banco Santander demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Regulator that the regulatory classification was not reasonably foreseeable at the date of issuance of contingent convertible capital securities of such series.

Redemption Due to a Tax Event

Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus supplement, if, on or after the date of issuance of any series of contingent convertible capital securities, (i) there is a Tax Event, and (ii) such circumstances are evidenced by the delivery by Banco Santander to the Trustee of a certificate signed by two directors of Banco Santander stating that the said circumstances prevail and describing the facts leading thereto and a copy of the Regulator’s consent to the redemption, the contingent convertible capital securities of such series may be redeemed, in whole but not in part, at the option of Banco Santander, subject to the prior consent of the Regulator and otherwise in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations then in force, at any time, at the Redemption Price per contingent convertible capital security.

Article 78(4) of the CRR provides that the Regulator may only permit Banco Santander to redeem the contingent convertible capital securities of any series before the fifth anniversary of the date of issuance of contingent convertible capital securities of such series in the case of a Tax Event if, in addition to meeting one of the

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conditions referred to in paragraphs (a) or (b) of Article 78(1) of the CRR (as described above), there is a change in the applicable tax treatment of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series and Banco Santander demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Regulator that such Tax Event is material and was not reasonably foreseeable at the date of issuance of contingent convertible capital securities of such series.

Redemption Procedures

The decision to redeem the contingent convertible capital securities must be irrevocably notified by Banco Santander to holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice prior to the relevant redemption date (i) through the filing of a relevant event ( hecho relevante ) announcement with the CNMV and its publication in accordance with the rules and regulations of any applicable stock exchange or other relevant authority and (ii) in accordance with “ — Notices ” below, and to the Trustee at least five (5) Business Days prior to such date, unless a shorter notice period shall be satisfactory to the Trustee.

Any notice of redemption will state: the redemption date; that on the redemption date the Redemption Price will, subject to the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in the contingent convertible capital securities indenture become due and payable upon each contingent convertible capital security being redeemed and that, subject to certain exceptions, Distributions will cease to accrue on or after that date; the place or places where the contingent convertible capital securities are to be surrendered for payment of the redemption price; and the CUSIP, Common Code and/or ISIN number or numbers, if any, with respect to the contingent convertible capital securities being redeemed.

If Banco Santander gives notice of redemption of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series, then by 12:00 noon (London time) on the relevant redemption date, Banco Santander will:

(a) irrevocably deposit with the Principal Paying Agent funds sufficient to pay the Redemption Price; and

(b) give the Principal Paying Agent irrevocable instructions and authority to pay the Redemption Price to the holders.

If the notice of redemption has been given on any series of contingent convertible capital securities, and the funds deposited and instructions and authority to pay given as required above, then on the date of such deposit:

(a) Distributions on the contingent convertible capital securities of such series shall cease to accrue;

(b) such contingent convertible capital securities of such series will no longer be considered outstanding; and

(c) the holders of contingent convertible capital securities of such series will no longer have any rights as holders except the right to receive the Redemption Price.

Non-payment of Redemption Price

If in connection with any series of contingent convertible capital securities either the notice of redemption has been given and the funds are not deposited as required on the date of such deposit or if Banco Santander improperly withholds or refuses to pay the Redemption Price of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series, Distributions will continue to accrue, subject as provided in “— Distributions ” above, at the rate specified from the redemption date to (but excluding) the date of actual payment of the Redemption Price.

Banco Santander may not give a notice of redemption pursuant to this section “— Redemption and Repurchase ” if a Trigger Event Notice has been given. If a Trigger Event Notice is given after a notice of redemption shall have been given by Banco Santander but before the redemption has occurred, such notice of redemption shall automatically be revoked and be null and void and the relevant redemption shall not be made.

Repurchases of Contingent Convertible Capital Securities

Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus supplement, Banco Santander and any of its subsidiaries or any third party designated by any of them, may at any time repurchase contingent convertible capital securities of any series in the open market or otherwise at any price, in accordance with Applicable Banking Regulations in force at the relevant time.

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Notwithstanding any other provision of “— Settlement Procedures ” below and subject to compliance with the provisions of the Spanish Companies Act and/or with any Applicable Banking Regulations, Banco Santander or any member of the Group may exercise such rights as it may from time to time enjoy to purchase or redeem or buy back any shares of Banco Santander (including Conversion Shares) or any depositary or other receipts or certificates representing the same without the consent of the holders.

Conversion Upon Trigger Event

If the Trigger Event occurs at any time on or after the issue date of any series of contingent convertible capital securities, then Banco Santander will:

(a) not declare or pay any Distribution on the contingent convertible capital securities of such series, including any accrued and unpaid Distributions, which shall be cancelled by Banco Santander in accordance with “ — Distributions—Restrictions on Payments ” above; and

(b) irrevocably and mandatorily (and without any requirement for the consent or approval of the holders of contingent convertible capital securities of such series) convert all the contingent convertible capital securities of such series into Common Shares (the “Trigger Conversion”) to be delivered on the relevant Conversion Settlement Date. If the Trigger Event occurs, the contingent convertible capital securities of any series will be converted in whole and not in part.

For the purposes of Banco Santander determining whether the Trigger Event has occurred, it will calculate the CET1 ratio based on information (whether or not published) available to management of Banco Santander, including information internally reported within Banco Santander pursuant to its procedures for ensuring effective ongoing monitoring of the capital ratios of Banco Santander and the Group. Banco Santander publishes the CET1 ratio on at least a quarterly basis. Banco Santander’s or the Regulator’s calculation shall be binding on the Trustee and the holders of the relevant series of contingent convertible capital securities.

Except as provided below with respect to fractions, the number of Conversion Shares shall be determined by dividing the Liquidation Preference of such contingent convertible capital security by the relevant Conversion Price in effect on the relevant Trigger Event Notice Date. Fractions of Common Shares will not be issued on Trigger Conversion and no cash payment or other adjustment will be made in lieu thereof. Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, if one or more Delivery Notices and the related contingent convertible capital securities are received by or on behalf of the Paying and Conversion Agent such that the Conversion Shares or related ADSs to be delivered by or on behalf of the Settlement Shares Depository are to be registered in the same name or delivered to the same Clearing Agency participant account, the number of such Conversion Shares to be delivered in respect thereof shall be calculated on the basis of the aggregate Liquidation Preference of such contingent convertible capital securities being so converted and rounded down to the nearest whole number of Common Shares or related ADSs, as applicable.

Upon any Trigger Event of any series of contingent convertible capital securities, holders shall have no claim against Banco Santander in respect of (i) any Liquidation Preference of such series of contingent convertible capital securities or (ii) any accrued and unpaid Distributions cancelled or otherwise unpaid in respect of contingent convertible capital securities of such series and the contingent convertible capital securities of such series shall cease to represent any right other than the right to receive Common Shares, if elected, or ADSs from or on behalf of the Settlement Shares Depository.

On the Conversion Settlement Date, Banco Santander shall deliver to the Settlement Shares Depository such number of Common Shares as is required to satisfy in full Banco Santander’s obligation to deliver Common Shares in respect of the Trigger Conversion of the aggregate Liquidation Preference of contingent convertible capital securities of such series outstanding on the Trigger Event Notice Date.

The obligation of Banco Santander to issue and deliver Conversion Shares to a holder of contingent convertible capital securities of any series on the relevant Conversion Settlement Date shall be satisfied by the delivery of such Conversion Shares to the Settlement Shares Depository. Receipt of the relevant Conversion Shares by the Settlement Shares Depository shall discharge Banco Santander’s obligations in respect of such contingent convertible capital securities.

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Holders of any series of contingent convertible capital securities shall have recourse to Banco Santander only for the issue and delivery of the relevant Conversion Shares to the Settlement Shares Depository. After such delivery, holders of any series of contingent convertible capital securities shall have recourse to the Settlement Shares Depository only for the delivery to them of such Conversion Shares or related ADSs, in the circumstances described in “— Settlement Procedures ” below.

Conversion Price

“Conversion Price” means, on the Trigger Event Notice Date, if the Common Shares are:

Anti-Dilution Adjustment of the Floor Price

For the purposes of this section “— Anti-Dilution Adjustment of the Floor Price ” only (a) references to the “issue” of Common Shares or Common Shares being issued shall, if not otherwise expressly specified in this “Description of Contingent Convertible Capital Securities”, include the transfer and/or delivery of Common Shares, whether newly issued and allotted or previously existing or held by or on behalf of Banco Santander or any member of the Group, and (b) Common Shares held by or on behalf of Banco Santander or any member of the Group (and which, in the case of sub-paragraphs (d) and (f) below, do not rank for the relevant right or other entitlement) shall not be considered as or treated as in issue or issued or entitled to receive any Dividend, right or other entitlement.

Upon the happening of any of the events described below and unless otherwise provided in the relevant prospectus supplement, the Floor Price of any series of contingent convertible capital securities shall be adjusted as follows:

(a) If and whenever there shall be a consolidation, reclassification/redesignation or subdivision affecting the number of Common Shares, the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately prior to such consolidation, reclassification/redesignation or subdivision by the following fraction:

A

B

where:

Such adjustment shall become effective on the date the consolidation, reclassification/redesignation or subdivision, as the case may be, takes effect.

(b) If and whenever Banco Santander shall issue any Common Shares credited as fully paid to Shareholders by way of capitalization of profits or reserves (including any share premium account or capital redemption reserve) other than (i) where any such Common Shares are or are to be issued instead of the whole or part of a Cash Dividend which Shareholders would or could otherwise have elected to receive, (ii) where Shareholders may elect to receive a Cash Dividend in lieu of such Common Shares or (iii) where any such Common Shares are or are expressed to be

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issued in lieu of a Dividend (whether or not a Cash Dividend equivalent or amount is announced or would otherwise be payable to Shareholders, whether at their election or otherwise), the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately prior to such issue by the following fraction:

A

B

where:

Such adjustment shall become effective on the first day on which Common Shares are traded ex-rights on the relevant Stock Exchange.

(c) (i) If and whenever Banco Santander shall pay any Extraordinary Dividend to its shareholders, the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately prior to the Effective Date by the following fraction:

A – B

A – C

where:

Such adjustment shall become effective on the Effective Date or, if later, the first date upon which the Fair Market Value of the relevant Extraordinary Dividend can be determined.

“Effective Date” means, in respect of this sub-paragraph (i), the first date on which the Common Shares are traded ex-the relevant Cash Dividend on the Relevant Stock Exchange.

“Extraordinary Dividend” means (i) any Cash Dividend which is expressly declared by Banco Santander to be a capital distribution, extraordinary dividend, extraordinary distribution, special dividend, special distribution or return of value to its shareholders or any analogous or similar term (including any distribution made as a result of any capital reduction), in which case the Extraordinary Dividend shall be such Cash Dividend; or (ii) any Cash Dividend (the “Relevant Dividend”) paid or made in a financial year of Banco Santander (the “Relevant Year”) if (A) the Fair Market Value of the Relevant Dividend per Common Share or (B) the sum of (I) the Fair Market Value of the Relevant Dividend per Common Share and (II) an amount equal to the aggregate of the Fair Market Value or Fair Market Values of any other Cash Dividend or Cash Dividends per Common Share paid or made in the Relevant Year (other than any Cash Dividend or part thereof previously determined to be an Extraordinary Dividend paid or made in such Relevant Year), exceeds the Reference Amount, and in that case the Extraordinary Dividend shall be the amount by which the Reference Amount is so exceeded.

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“Reference Amount” means an amount per Ordinary Share that is consistent with the dividend policy of Banco Santander as applied or to be applied for a period or projected period of at least three years.

(ii) If and whenever Banco Santander shall pay or make any Non-Cash Dividend to Shareholders, the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately prior to the Effective Date by the following fraction:

A – B

A

where:

Such adjustment shall become effective on the Effective Date or, if later, the first date upon which the Fair Market Value of the relevant Non-Cash Dividend is capable of being determined as provided herein.

“Effective Date” means, in respect of this sub-paragraph (ii), the first date on which the Common Shares are traded ex-the relevant Dividend on the Relevant Stock Exchange or, in the case of a purchase, redemption or buy back of Common Shares or any depositary or other receipts or certificates representing Common Shares by or on behalf of Banco Santander or any member of the Group, the date on which such purchase, redemption or buy back is made (or, in any such case if later, the first date upon which the Fair Market Value of the relevant Dividend is capable of being determined as provided herein) or in the case of a Spin-Off, the first date on which the Common Shares are traded ex-the relevant Spin-Off on the Relevant Stock Exchange.

(iii) For the purposes of the above, Fair Market Value shall (subject as provided in paragraph (a) of the definition of “Dividend” and in the definition of “Fair Market Value”) be determined as at the Effective Date.

(iv) In making any calculations for the purposes of this paragraph (c), such adjustments (if any) shall be made as an Independent Financial Adviser may determine in good faith to be appropriate to reflect (A) any consolidation or sub-division of any Common Shares or (B) the issue of Common Shares by way of capitalization of profits or reserves (or any like or similar event) or (C) any increase in the number of Common Shares in issue in the Relevant Year in question.

(d) If and whenever Banco Santander shall issue Common Shares to its shareholders as a class by way of rights, or Banco Santander or any member of the Group or (at the direction or request or pursuant to any arrangements with Banco Santander or any member of the Group) any other company, person or entity shall issue or grant to its shareholders as a class by way of rights, any options, warrants or other rights to subscribe for or purchase or otherwise acquire any Common Shares, or any Securities which by their terms of issue carry (directly or indirectly) rights of conversion into, or exchange or subscription for, or the right to acquire, any Common Shares (or shall grant any such rights in respect of existing Securities so issued), in each case at a price per Common Share which is less than 95 percent. of the Current Market Price per Common Share on the Effective Date, the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately prior to the Effective Date by the following fraction:

A + B

A + C

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where:

provided that if at the first date on which the Common Shares are traded ex-rights, ex-options or ex-warrants on the Relevant Stock Exchange (as used in this sub-paragraph(d), the “Specified Date”) such number of Common Shares is to be determined by reference to the application of a formula or other variable feature or the occurrence of any event at some subsequent time, then for the purposes of this sub-paragraph (d), “C” shall be determined by the application of such formula or variable feature or as if the relevant event occurs or had occurred as at the Specified Date and as if such conversion, exchange, subscription, purchase or acquisition had taken place on the Specified Date.

Such adjustment shall become effective on the Effective Date.

“Effective Date” means, in respect of this sub-paragraph (d), the first date on which the Common Shares are traded ex-rights, ex-options or ex-warrants on the Relevant Stock Exchange.

(e) If and whenever Banco Santander or any member of the Group or (at the direction or request or pursuant to any arrangements with Banco Santander or any member of the Group) any other company, person or entity shall issue any Securities (other than Common Shares or options, warrants or other rights to subscribe for or purchase or otherwise acquire any Common Shares or Securities which by their terms carry (directly or indirectly) rights of conversion into, or exchange or subscription for, or rights to otherwise acquire, Common Shares) to its shareholders as a class by way of rights or grant to its shareholders as a class by way of rights any options, warrants or other rights to subscribe for or purchase or otherwise acquire any Securities (other than Common Shares or options, warrants or other rights to subscribe for or purchase or otherwise acquire Common Shares or Securities which by their term carry (directly or indirectly) rights of conversion into, or exchange or subscription for, rights to otherwise acquire, Common Shares), the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately prior to the Effective Date by the following fraction:

A – B

A

where:

Such adjustment shall become effective on the Effective Date.

“Effective Date” means, in respect of this sub-paragraph (e), the first date on which the Common Shares are traded ex-the relevant Securities or ex-rights, ex-option or ex-warrants on the Relevant Stock Exchange.

(f) If and whenever Banco Santander shall issue (otherwise than as mentioned in sub-paragraph (d) above) wholly for cash or for no consideration any Common Shares (other than Common Shares issued on conversion of the any series of contingent convertible capital securities or on the exercise of any rights of conversion into, or

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exchange or subscription for or purchase of, or right to otherwise acquire Common Shares) or if and whenever Banco Santander or any member of the Group or (at the direction or request or pursuance to any arrangements with Banco Santander or any member of the Group) any other company, person or entity shall issue or grant (otherwise than as mentioned in sub-paragraph (d) above) wholly for cash or for no consideration any options, warrants or other rights to subscribe for or purchase or otherwise acquire any Common Shares (other than the contingent convertible capital securities of any series, which for this purpose include any Further Contingent Convertible Capital Securities), in each case at a price per Common Share which is less than 95 percent of the Current Market Price per Common Share on the date of the first public announcement of the terms of such issue or grant, the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately prior to the Effective Date by the following fraction:

A + B

A + C

where:

provided that if at the time of issue of such Common Shares or date of issue or grant of such options, warrants or rights (as used in this sub-paragraph (f), the “Specified Date”), such number of Common Shares is to be determined by reference to the application of a formula or other variable feature or the occurrence of any event at some subsequent time, then for the purposes of this sub-paragraph (f), “C” shall be determined by the application of such formula or variable feature or as if the relevant event occurs or had occurred as at the Specified Date and as if such conversion, exchange, subscription, purchase or acquisition had taken place on the Specified Date.

Such adjustment shall become effective on the Effective Date.

“Effective Date” means, in respect of this sub-paragraph (f), the date of issue of such Common Shares or, as the case may be, the grant of such options, warrants or rights.

(g) If and whenever Banco Santander or any member of the Group or (at the direction or request of or pursuant to any arrangements with Banco Santander or any member of the Group) any other company, person or entity (otherwise than as mentioned in sub-paragraphs (d), (e) or (f) above) shall issue wholly for cash or for no consideration any Securities (other than contingent convertible capital securities of any series) which by their terms of issue carry (directly or indirectly) rights of conversion into, or exchange or subscription for, purchase of, or rights to otherwise acquire, Common Shares (or shall grant any such rights in respect of existing Securities so issued) or Securities which by their terms might be reclassified/redesignated as Common Shares, and the consideration per Common Share receivable upon conversion, exchange, subscription, purchase, acquisition or redesignation is less than 95 percent of the Current Market Price per Common Share on the date of the first public announcement of the terms of issue of such Securities (or the terms of such grant), the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately prior to the Effective Date by the following fraction:

A + B

A + C

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where:

provided that if at the time of issue of the relevant Securities or date of grant of such rights (as used in this sub-paragraph (g), the “Specified Date”) such number of Common Shares is to be determined by reference to the application of a formula or other variable feature or the occurrence of any event at some subsequent time (which may be when such Securities are converted or exchanged or rights of subscription, purchase or acquisition are exercised or, as the case may be, such Securities are reclassified/redesignated or at such other time as may be provided), then for the purposes of this sub-paragraph (g), “C” shall be determined by the application of such formula or variable feature or as if the relevant event occurs or had occurred as at the Specified Date and as if such conversion, exchange, subscription, purchase or acquisition or, as the case may be, reclassification/redesignation had taken place on the Specified Date.

Such adjustment shall become effective on the Effective Date.

“Effective Date” means, in respect of this sub-paragraph (g), the date of issue of such Securities or, as the case may be, the grant of such rights.

(h) If and whenever there shall be any modification of the rights of conversion, exchange, subscription, purchase or acquisition attaching to any Securities (other than the contingent convertible capital securities of any series) as are mentioned in sub-paragraph (g) above (other than in accordance with the terms (including terms as to adjustment) applicable to such Securities upon issue) so that following such modification the consideration per Common Share receivable has been reduced and is less than 95 percent of the Current Market Price per Common Share on the date of the first public announcement of the proposals for such modification, the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately prior to the Effective Date by the following fraction:

A + B

A + C

where:

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provided that if at the time of such modification (as used in this sub-paragraph (h), the “Specified Date”) such number of Common Shares is to be determined by reference to the application of a formula or other variable feature or the occurrence of any event at some subsequent time (which may be when such Securities are converted or exchanged or rights of subscription, purchase or acquisition are exercised or at such other time as may be provided) then for the purposes of this sub-paragraph (h), “C” shall be determined by the application of such formula or variable feature or as if the relevant event occurs or had occurred as at the Specified Date and as if such conversion, exchange, subscription, purchase or acquisition had taken place on the Specified Date.

Such adjustment shall become effective on the Effective Date.

“Effective Date” means, in respect of this sub-paragraph (h), the date of modification of the rights of conversion, exchange, subscription, purchase or acquisition attaching to such Securities.

(i) If and whenever Banco Santander or any member of the Group or (at the direction or request of or pursuant to any arrangements with Banco Santander or any member of the Group) any other company, person or entity shall offer any Securities in connection with which its shareholders as a class are entitled to participate in arrangements whereby such Securities may be acquired by them (except where the Floor Price falls to be adjusted under sub-paragraphs (b), (c), (d), (e) or (f) above or sub-paragraph (j) below (or would fall to be so adjusted if the relevant issue or grant was at less than 95 percent of the Current Market Price per Common Share on the relevant dealing day under sub-paragraph (e) above)) the Floor Price shall be adjusted by multiplying the Floor Price in force immediately before the Effective Date by the following fraction:

A – B

A

where:

Such adjustment shall become effective on the Effective Date.

“Effective Date” means, in respect of this sub-paragraph (i), the first date on which the Common Shares are traded ex-rights on the Relevant Stock Exchange.

(j) If Banco Santander determines that a reduction to the Floor Price should be made for whatever reason, the Floor Price will be reduced (either generally or for a specified period as notified to holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such relevant series) in such manner and with effect from such date as Banco Santander shall determine and notify to the holders of the relevant series of contingent convertible capital securities.

Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions:

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For the purpose of any calculation of the consideration receivable or price pursuant to sub-paragraphs (d), (f), (g) and (h) above, the following provisions shall apply:

If the record date in respect of any consolidation, reclassification/redesignation or sub-division as is mentioned in sub-paragraph (a) above, or the record date or other due date for the establishment of entitlement for any such issue, distribution, grant or offer (as the case may be) as is mentioned in sub-paragraphs (b), (c), (d), (e) or (i) above,

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or the date of the first public announcement of the terms of any such issue or grant as is mentioned in sub-paragraphs (f) and (g) above or of the terms of any such modification as is mentioned in sub-paragraph (h) above, shall be after the Trigger Event Notice Date in relation to the conversion of any contingent convertible capital security of any series but before the date on which the resolution of issuance of the relevant Common Shares is approved, then Banco Santander shall procure the execution of the corresponding adjustment mechanism pursuant to this section “ — Anti-Dilution Adjustment of the Floor Price ” so that there shall be issued and delivered to the Settlement Shares Depository, for onward delivery to the holders of the relevant contingent convertible capital securities, in accordance with the instructions contained in the Delivery Notices received by the Settlement Shares Depository, such number of Common Shares that could be required to be issued and delivered on such conversion taking into account the relevant adjustment to the Floor Price pursuant to this section “ — Anti-Dilution Adjustment of the Floor Price ” and all references to the issue and/or delivery of Common Shares or Conversion Shares in this prospectus and the contingent convertible capital securities indenture shall be construed accordingly.

If any doubt shall arise as to whether an adjustment falls to be made to the Floor Price or as to the appropriate adjustment to the Floor Price, and following consultation between Banco Santander and an Independent Financial Adviser, a written determination of such Independent Financial Adviser in respect thereof shall be conclusive and binding on all parties, save in the case of willful default, bad faith or manifest error.

No adjustment will be made to the Floor Price where Common Shares or other Securities (including rights, warrants and options) are issued, offered, exercised, allotted, purchased, appropriated, modified or granted to, or for the benefit of, employees or former employees (including directors holding or formerly holding executive or non-executive office or the personal service company of any such person) or their spouses or relatives, in each case, of Banco Santander or any of member of the Group or any associated company or to a Trustee or Trustees or intermediary to be held for the benefit of any such person, in any such case pursuant to any share or option or similar scheme.

On any adjustment, the resultant Floor Price, if a number of more decimal places than the initial Floor Price, shall be rounded down to such decimal place. No adjustment shall be made to the Floor Price where such adjustment (rounded down if applicable) would be less than 1 percent of the Floor Price then in effect. Any adjustment not required to be made and/or any amount by which the Floor Price has been rounded down, shall be carried forward and taken into account in any subsequent adjustment, and such subsequent adjustment shall be made on the basis that the adjustment not required to be made had been made at the relevant time and/or, as the case may be, that the relevant rounding down had not been made.

Notice of any adjustments to the Floor Price shall be given by Banco Santander to holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series through the filing of a relevant event ( hecho relevante ) announcement with the CNMV and its publication in accordance with the rules and regulations of any applicable stock exchange or other relevant authority and in accordance with “ — Notices ” below promptly after the determination thereof.

Conversion Procedures

If the Trigger Event occurs at any time on or after the issue date of any series of contingent convertible capital securities, then Banco Santander will: notify the Regulator and holders of such series of contingent convertible capital securities immediately through (i) the filing of a relevant event ( hecho relevante ) announcement with the CNMV and its publication in accordance with the rules and regulations of any applicable stock exchange or other relevant authority and (ii) to the Regulator, holders and the Trustee in accordance with “ — Notices ” below (the “Trigger Event Notice”);

A Trigger Event Notice shall be a written notice specifying the following information:

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The failure to notify the Regulator and holders of such series contingent convertible capital securities as aforesaid will not invalidate the conversion.

The date on which the Trigger Event Notice shall be deemed to have been given shall be the date on which it is dispatched by Banco Santander to DTC.

Upon Banco Santander’s determination that a Trigger Event has occurred, it shall immediately inform the Regulator and shall, prior to giving a Trigger Event Notice, deliver to the Trustee a certificate stating that a Trigger Event has occurred, which the Trustee shall accept without any further enquiry as sufficient evidence of such matters, in which event such certificate will be conclusive and binding on the Trustee, the holders and beneficial owners of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series.

Within two (2) Business Days after its receipt of the Trigger Event Notice, the Trustee shall transmit the Trigger Event Notice to DTC and promptly following its receipt of the Trigger Event Notice, pursuant to DTC’s procedures currently in effect, DTC will post the Trigger Event Notice to its Reorganization Inquiry for Participants System.

Notwithstanding anything set forth in this prospectus to the contrary, once Banco Santander has delivered a Trigger Event Notice following the occurrence of a Trigger Event, (i) subject to the right of holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of the relevant series relating to a breach of the Performance Obligation (as defined below) in the event of a failure by Banco Santander to issue and deliver any Common Shares to the Settlement Shares Depository on the Conversion Settlement Date, the contingent convertible capital securities indenture shall impose no duties upon the Trustee whatsoever with regard to a Trigger Conversion and the holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series shall have no rights whatsoever under the contingent convertible capital securities indenture or the contingent convertible capital securities of such series to instruct the Trustee to take any action whatsoever and (ii) as of the date of the Trigger Event Notice, except for any indemnity and/or security provided by any holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series in such direction or related to such direction, any direction previously given to the Trustee by any holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series shall cease automatically and shall be null and void and of no further effect.

Banco Santander’s obligations to indemnify the Trustee in accordance with the contingent convertible capital securities indenture shall survive any Trigger Conversion.

Agreement and Waiver with Respect to a Trigger Conversion

The contingent convertible capital securities of any series are not convertible into Common Shares at the option of holders of contingent convertible capital securities of any series at any time and are not redeemable in cash as a result of a Trigger Event. Notwithstanding any other provision herein, by its acquisition of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series, each holder and beneficial owner shall be deemed to have (i) agreed to all the terms and conditions of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series, including, without limitation, those related to (x) Trigger Conversion following a Trigger Event and (y) the appointment of the Settlement Shares Depository, the issuance of the Settlement Shares to the Settlement Shares Depository (or to the relevant recipient in accordance with the terms of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series), and acknowledged that

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such events in (x) and (y) may occur without any further action on the part of the holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series or the Trustee, (ii) agreed that effective upon, and following, the Trigger Conversion, no amount shall be due and payable to the holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series, and Banco Santander’s liability to pay any such amounts (including the Liquidation Preference of, or any Distribution in respect of, the contingent convertible capital securities of such series), except as noted under “ — Settlement Procedures ” with respect to certain stamp and similar taxes, shall be automatically released, and the holders shall not have the right to give a direction to the Trustee with respect to the Trigger Event and any related Trigger Conversion, (iii) waived, to the extent permitted by the Trust Indenture Act, any claim against the Trustee arising out of its acceptance of its trusteeship under, and the performance of its duties, powers and rights in respect of, the contingent convertible capital securities indenture and in connection with the contingent convertible capital securities of such series, including, without limitation, claims related to or arising out of or in connection with a Trigger Event and/or any Trigger Conversion and (iv) authorized, directed and requested DTC, the European Clearing Systems and any direct participant in DTC, the European Clearing Systems or other intermediary through which it holds such contingent convertible capital securities to take any and all necessary action, if required, to implement the Trigger Conversion without any further action or direction on the part of such holder or beneficial owner of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series or the Trustee.

Settlement Procedures

Delivery of the Common Shares to the holders of any series of contingent convertible capital securities upon a Trigger Event shall be made in accordance with the following procedures. The procedures set forth in this section are subject to change to reflect changes in clearing system practices.

Holders of any series of contingent convertible capital securities cleared and settled through DTC may elect to have their Common Shares delivered in the form of Common Shares or ADSs in accordance with the procedures described below. The obligation to deliver ADSs if a holder elects to have its Common Shares delivered in such form will apply only if at the time of any Trigger Conversion Banco Santander continues to maintain an ADS depositary facility. For further information on the ADSs and Banco Santander’s current ADS deposit agreement, see “Description of American Depositary Shares”.

DTC Suspension . The Trigger Event Notice shall specify the Suspension Date. On the Suspension Date, DTC shall suspend all clearance and settlement of transactions in the relevant series of contingent convertible capital securities. As a result, holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series will not be able to settle any transfers of any contingent convertible capital securities of such series following the Suspension Date, and any sale or other transfer of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series that a holder of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series may have initiated prior to the Suspension Date that is scheduled to settle after the Suspension Date will be rejected by DTC and will not be settled through DTC. The contingent convertible capital securities of such series may cease to be admitted to trading on any stock exchange on which the contingent convertible capital securities of such series are then listed or admitted to trading after the Suspension Date.

Settlement Request Notice . On the Suspension Date, Banco Santander shall deliver a notice in accordance with “ — Notices ” below to the Trustee and to the holders of the contingent convertible capital securities of the relevant series (a “Settlement Request Notice”) requesting that holders and beneficial owners of the contingent convertible capital securities of such series complete a notice to be delivered to the Paying and Conversion Agent, with a copy to the Trustee (a “Delivery Notice”). The Settlement Request Notice shall specify the date by which the Delivery Notice must be received by the Paying and Conversion Agent (the “Notice Cut-off Date”) and (ii) the date on which the Contingent Convertible Capital Securities of such series in relation to which no Delivery Notice has been received by the Paying and Conversion Agent on or before the Notice Cut-off Date shall be cancelled, which will be no more than twelve Business Days after the Conversion Settlement Date (the “Final Cancellation Date”), as set forth in “ — Failure to Deliver a Delivery Notice ” below.

Delivery Notice . In order to obtain delivery of the relevant Common Shares, or, if the holder elects, ADSs, a holder or beneficial owner must deliver its contingent convertible capital securities and Delivery Notice to the Paying and Conversion Agent (including, the delivery of such contingent convertible capital securities and Delivery Notice to the Paying and Conversion Agent through DTC) on or before the Notice Cut-off Date. If such delivery is made after the end of normal business hours at the specified office of the Paying and Conversion Agent, such delivery shall be deemed for all purposes to have been made or given on the following Business Day. The Delivery Notice shall contain: (i) the name of the holder or beneficial owner of the applicable series of contingent convertible

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capital securities; (ii) the aggregate Liquidation Preference held by such holder or beneficial owner of such series of contingent convertible capital securities on the date of such notice; (iii) the name in which the Common Shares or ADSs, as applicable, are to be registered, if applicable (iv) whether Common Shares or ADSs are to be delivered to the holder or beneficial owner of such series of contingent convertible capital securities; (v) the details of the DTC, Iberclear or other clearing system account (subject to the limitations set out below) to which the ADSs or Common Shares are to be credited, details of the registered account in Banco Santander’s ADS facility if direct registration ADSs are to be issued, or, if the Common Shares are not a participating security in Iberclear or another clearing system, the address to which the Common Shares should be delivered; and (vi) such other details as may be required by the Paying and Conversion Agent.

The Delivery Notice must be given and the contingent convertible capital securities delivered in accordance with the applicable procedures of DTC (which may include the notice being given to the Paying and Conversion Agent by electronic means) and in a form acceptable to DTC and the Paying and Conversion Agent.

Any Delivery Notice shall be irrevocable. Failure properly to complete and deliver a Delivery Notice and deliver the relevant contingent convertible capital securities may result in such Delivery Notice being treated as null and void and Banco Santander shall be entitled to procure the sale of any applicable Common Shares to which the relevant holder may be entitled in accordance with this section “ — Settlement Procedures ”. Any determination as to whether any Delivery Notice has been properly completed and delivered as provided in this section “ — Settlement Procedures ” shall be made by Banco Santander in its sole discretion, acting in good faith, and shall, in the absence of manifest error, be conclusive and binding on the relevant holders.

Subject as provided herein and provided the contingent convertible capital securities and Delivery Notice are delivered on or before the Notice Cut-off Date, the Paying and Conversion Agent shall give instructions to the Settlement Shares Depository that the Settlement Shares Depository shall deliver the relevant Common Shares (rounded down to the nearest whole number of Common Shares) to, or shall deposit such relevant Common Shares with the ADS Depositary on behalf of, the holder or beneficial owner of the relevant contingent convertible capital securities completing the relevant Delivery Notice or its nominee in accordance with the instructions given in such Delivery Notice on the applicable Conversion Settlement Date.

Delivery of ADSs . In respect of any Conversion Shares that holders elect to receive in the form of ADSs as specified in the Delivery Notice, the Settlement Shares Depository shall deposit with the custodian for the ADS Depositary the number of Conversion Shares to be issued upon Trigger Conversion of the relevant series of contingent convertible capital securities, and the ADS Depositary shall issue the corresponding number of ADSs to the DTC Participant account or registered ADS facility account specified by such holders (per the ADS-to-ordinary share ratio in effect on the Conversion Settlement Date). However, the issuance of the ADSs by the ADS Depositary may be delayed until the depositary bank or the custodian receives confirmation that all required approvals have been given and that the Conversion Shares have been duly transferred to the custodian and that all applicable depositary fees and payments have been paid to the ADS Depositary. For further information on the ADSs or the ADS deposit agreement, see “Description of American Depositary Shares”.

Failure to Deliver a Delivery Notice . If a duly completed Delivery Notice and the relevant contingent convertible capital securities are not delivered to the Paying and Conversion Agent as provided above on or before the Notice Cut-off Date, then at any time following the Notice Cut-off Date and prior to the 10th Business Day after the Conversion Settlement Date Banco Santander may in its sole and absolute discretion (and the relevant holders of such contingent convertible capital securities shall be deemed to agree thereto), elect to appoint a person (the “Selling Agent”) to procure that all Common Shares held by the Settlement Shares Depository in respect of which the applicable contingent convertible capital securities and completed Delivery Notice have not been delivered on or before the Notice Cut-off Date as aforesaid shall be sold by or on behalf of the Selling Agent as soon as reasonably practicable. If the applicable contingent convertible capital securities and Delivery Notice are not delivered to the Paying and Conversion Agent on or before the Notice Cut-off Date, the Settlement Shares Depository shall continue to hold any Conversion Shares not sold by the Selling Agent until a Delivery Notice is so delivered or the Final Cancellation Date (as defined below), whichever is earlier. However, any holder or beneficial owner of the contingent convertible capital securities delivering a Delivery Notice after the Notice Cut-off Date will have to provide evidence of its entitlement to the relevant Common Shares, or if the holder so elects, ADSs, satisfactory to the Settlement Shares Depository in its sole and absolute discretion in order to receive delivery of such Common Shares or ADSs (if so elected to be deposited with the ADS Depositary on its behalf).

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Subject to the deduction by or on behalf of the Selling Agent of any amount payable in respect of its liability to taxation and the payment of any capital, stamp, issue, registration and/or transfer taxes and duties (if any) and any fees or costs incurred by or on behalf of the Selling Agent in connection with the issue, allotment and sale thereof, and the conversion of any proceeds of such sale into U.S. dollars, the net proceeds of such sale, converted into U.S. dollars at the Prevailing Rate on the Notice Cut-off Date, if necessary, shall as soon as reasonably practicable be distributed rateably to the relevant holders in such manner and at such time as Banco Santander shall determine and notify to the relevant holders.

Such payment shall for all purposes discharge the obligations of Banco Santander, the Settlement Shares Depository, the Paying and Conversion Agent and the Selling Agent to such holders in respect of the Trigger Conversion.

Banco Santander, the Settlement Shares Depository and the Selling Agent shall have no liability in respect of the exercise or non-exercise of any discretion or power pursuant to this section “ — Settlement Procedures ” or in respect of any sale of any Common Shares, whether for the timing of any such sale or the price at or manner in which any such Common Shares are sold or the inability to sell any such Common Shares.

If Banco Santander does not appoint the Selling Agent by the 10th Business Day after the Conversion Settlement Date, or if any Common Shares are not sold by the Selling Agent in accordance with this section “Settlement Procedures”, such Common Shares for which a Delivery Notice has not been received will be cancelled on the Final Cancellation Date.

Certain Taxes

A holder of the contingent convertible capital securities of any series or Selling Agent (as defined below) must pay (in the case of the Selling Agent by means of deduction from the net proceeds of sale referred to in “ — Failure to Deliver a Delivery Notice ” below) any taxes and capital, stamp, issue and registration and transfer taxes or duties arising on Trigger Conversion (other than any taxes or capital, issue and registration and transfer taxes or stamp duties payable in Spain by Banco Santander in respect of the issue and delivery of the Common Shares in accordance with a Delivery Notice delivered pursuant to the contingent convertible capital securities indenture which shall be paid by Banco Santander) and such holder or the Selling Agent (as the case may be) must pay (in the case of the Selling Agent, by way of deduction from the net proceeds of sale as aforesaid) all, if any, taxes arising by reference to any disposal or deemed disposal of a contingent convertible capital security or interest therein.

If Banco Santander shall fail to pay any capital, stamp, issue, registration and transfer taxes and duties for which it is responsible as provided above, the holder or Selling Agent, as the case may be, shall be entitled (but shall not be obliged) to tender and pay the same and Banco Santander as a separate and independent obligation, undertakes to reimburse and indemnify each holder or Selling Agent, as the case may be, in respect of any payment thereof and any penalties payable in respect thereof.

Status of the Conversion Shares

The Common Shares issued on Trigger Conversion will be fully paid and will in all respects rank pari passu with the fully paid Common Shares in issue on the Trigger Event Notice Date, except in any such case for any right excluded by mandatory provisions of applicable law and except that such Common Shares will not rank for (or, as the case may be, the relevant holder shall not be entitled to receive) any rights, dividends or payments the record date or other due date for the establishment of entitlement for which falls prior to the date that the resolution of issuance of the relevant Common Shares is approved.

Additional Amounts

Unless otherwise specified in the relevant prospectus supplement, all payments of Distributions and other amounts payable in respect of contingent convertible capital securities by Banco Santander will be made free and clear of and without withholding or deduction for or on account of any present or future taxes, duties, assessments or governmental charges (collectively “Taxes”) of whatever nature imposed or levied by or on behalf of Spain or any political subdivision thereof or any authority or agency therein or thereof having power to tax, unless the withholding or deduction of such taxes, duties, assessments or governmental charges is required by law. In that event, Banco Santander shall pay, in respect of any withholding or deduction imposed on payments of Distributions only (and not Liquidation Preference) such additional amounts

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(“Additional Amounts”) as will result in holders of any series of outstanding contingent convertible capital securities receiving such amounts as they would have received had no such withholding or deduction been required, provided that no payments of Additional Amounts will be made if and to the extent that Banco Santander has insufficient Available Distributable Items to pay such additional amounts, Distributions on the contingent convertible capital securities of any series scheduled for payment in the then current financial year and any equivalent payments scheduled to be made in the then current financial year in respect of any other Parity Securities and CET1 Capital securities then outstanding, in each case excluding any portion of such payments already accounted for in determining the Available Distributable Items.

However, Banco Santander shall not be required to pay any Additional Amounts in relation to any payment in respect of any contingent convertible capital securities:

(a) to, or to a third party on behalf of, a holder if the holder or the beneficial owner of contingent convertible capital securities is liable for such Taxes in respect of such contingent convertible capital security by reason of his having some connection with Spain other than the mere holding of such contingent convertible capital security; or

(b) to, or to a third party on behalf of, a holder or the beneficial owner in respect of whose contingent convertible capital securities Banco Santander does not receive such information as may be required in order to comply with the applicable Spanish tax reporting obligations (as amended or restated from time to time), including but not limited to the receipt in a timely manner of a duly executed and completed certificate in accordance with Law 10/2014 and Royal Decree 1065/2007, as amended, and any implementing legislation or regulation; or

(c) to, or to a third party on behalf of, a holder if the holder or the beneficial owner of contingent convertible capital securities of any series failed to make any necessary claim or to comply with any certification, identification or other requirements concerning the nationality, residence, identity or connection with the taxing jurisdiction of such holder or beneficial owner, if such claim or compliance is required by statute, treaty, regulation or administrative practice of the taxing jurisdiction of Banco Santander as a condition to relief or exemption from such taxes; or

(d) presented for payment (where presentation is required) more than 30 days after the Relevant Date, except to the extent that the relevant holder would have been entitled to such Additional Amounts on presenting the same for payment on the expiry of such period of 30 days; or

(e) in relation to any estate, inheritance, gift, sales, transfer or similar taxes; or

(f) to, or to a third party on behalf of, individuals resident for tax purposes in the Kingdom of Spain; or

(g) to, or to a third party on behalf of, a Spanish-resident legal entity subject to Spanish corporation tax if the Spanish tax authorities determine that the contingent convertible capital securities of any series do not comply with exemption requirements specified in the Reply to a Consultation of the Directorate General for Taxation ( Dirección General de Tributos ) dated 27 July 2004 and require a withholding to be made; or

(h) where the withholding or deduction is required pursuant to an agreement described in Section 1471(b) of the Code or otherwise imposed pursuant to Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, any regulations or agreements thereunder, any official interpretations thereof, any intergovernmental agreements with respect thereto (including the intergovernmental agreement between the United States and Spain on the implementation of FATCA), or any law implementing an intergovernmental agreement or any regulations or official interpretations relating thereto.

In addition, Additional Amounts will not be payable with respect to any Taxes that are imposed in respect of any combination of the items listed in (a) through (h) set forth above.

Additional Amounts will also not be paid with respect to any payment to a holder who is a fiduciary, a partnership, a limited liability company or person other than the sole beneficial owner of that payment, to the extent that payment would be required by the laws of Spain (or any political subdivision thereof) to be included in the income, for tax purposes, of a beneficiary or settlor with respect to the fiduciary, a member of that partnership, an interest holder in that limited liability company or a beneficial owner who would not have been entitled to the Additional Amounts had it been the holder.

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For the purposes of this section:

“Relevant Date” means, in respect of any payment, the date on which such payment first becomes due and payable, except that, if the full amount of the moneys payable has not been duly received by the Principal Paying Agent on or prior to such due date, it means the date on which, the full amount of such moneys having been so received and being available for payment to holders, notice to that effect is duly given to the holders in accordance with“ — Notices ” below.

Except where the context requires otherwise, any reference in this prospectus and the relevant prospectus supplement to Distributions in respect of the contingent convertible capital securities shall include any Additional Amounts payable with respect thereto.