FAQs

Answer your questions about the share, dividends, tax matters, and benefits and special products for shareholders.

General

What is BBVA's business model and international footprint?

BBVA is a global financial group with a diversified business providing financial services in more than 30 countries to 71 million customers. It has a strong leadership position in the Spanish market, it is the largest financial institution in Mexico and it has leading franchises in South America and the Sunbelt region of the United States. It is also the leading shareholder in Garanti.

For more information please refer to bbva in brief

How can I obtain financial information on BBVA?

All the financial information is available in the Financials section.

How can I access BBVA's research service?

How can I access BBVA's press releases?

What are BBVA's credit ratings according to the rating agencies?

You can find detailed information in the Debt Investors/Ratings section of this website.

Who is BBVA's auditor?

The current audit firm is KPMG.

Where can I check the trading price of the BBVA share?

See our Share section on this website.

What is BBVA's ticker symbol?

Bloomberg: BBVASM

  • Reuters: BBVAMC
  • NYSE: BBVAUS

For more information visit: Share key figures

What is the nominal BBVA share value?

The nominal BBVA share value is 0.49 euros.

On what stock exchanges are BBVA shares traded?

The Bank’s shares are traded on the continuous market in Spain, as well as on the London and Mexico stock markets. BBVA American Depositary Shares (ADS) are traded on the New York Stock Exchange and also on the Lima Stock Exchange (Peru), under an exchange agreement between these two markets.

What capital increases has the Bank implemented?

The information on the BBVA Group’s capital increases can be found in the Capital issuance section.

Where can I buy BBVA shares?

You can buy BBVA shares through your bank or broker. If you are a BBVA customer you can order shares at your branch, via the BBVA helpline or online at www.bbva.es.

What costs are involved in the purchase of BBVA shares?

If you buy shares through BBVA you benefit from exemption from bank charges. You need only pay the brokerage fee (costs of the brokerage firm involved in the transaction) and stock exchange fee.

How can I check the number of BBVA shares I own?

If the purchase was made through BBVA and you still hold an account with us, you can find this information at bbva.es, visiting the share portfolio section. You can also ask your branch, which will tell you how many shares you own, when they were purchased and at what price.

If you made the purchase through another bank, you will have to consult such bank. Our Shareholder Office can also provide you with any information that is included in our shareholder register

I want to transfer my shares to BBVA. How do I do that?

Just take the most recent statement for the shares you want to transfer to any BBVA branch. The statement must be signed by all of the contract holders. The bank will take care of the rest. Once the shares have been transferred, you will be eligible for special benefits. Click here.

A transfer fee will be charged by the bank from which the securities are transferred. This fee may vary depending on the bank.

How does BBVA notify traditional dividend payments?

Once the BBVA Board of Directors approves the amount of payment, the Bank reports this information in a number of ways:

  • Notification to the Spanish National Stock Market Commission (CNMV).
  • Announcement on the Bank’s website.
  • Notification to shareholders who have subscribed to the notification service.
  • Via the Shareholder e-mail accionistas@bbva.com.

How can I find out what dividends have been paid by BBVA?

Check the history log of dividends paid out by BBVA here.

What does BBVA's Dividend Option consist of?

It is a remuneration scheme that enables shareholders to choose between different alternatives for their remuneration:

  • Receive new BBVA shares free of charge as a share capital increase by an amount equal to the dividend with no tax withholding.
  •  Sell to BBVA the free subscription rights allocated in the capital increase (in the exercise of the free allocation right commitment undertaken by the Bank) and receive the dividend in cash after deducting the tax withholding.
  • Sell the free subscription rights allocated to you in the share capital increase on the stock market, during the trading period; you receive the amount in cash after deducting tax withholding.

 

What is the dividend yield on BBVA shares?

The dividend yield on BBVA shares depends on the total dividend for the year in question and the share price. These figures are published in the quarterly results.

You can access the BBVA Group’s quarterly reports here.

What services and information can the Shareholder Office provide?

The Shareholder Office is open to all BBVA shareholders resident in Spain and offers the following services:

  • Information on the Group and the shares.
  • Resolution of issues raised by shareholders.
  • Special products offered to our shareholders.
  • Shareholder suggestions.

How can I get in touch with the Shareholder Office?

  • Shareholder helpline +34 912 24 98 21.
  • accionistas@bbva.com.
  • Shareholder Office – Ciudad BBVA- Calle Azul, 4; 28050 Madrid

My shareholder notifications are being sent to my old address, where can I report a change of address?

If you are a customer of the Bank you can notify a change of address at your branch, which will update your data in the customer and shareholder database.

 

If you are a shareholder but have no commercial relationship with the Bank, you may notify your change of address at any BBVA branch, via the Shareholder Helpline +34 912 24 98 21 or by e-mail accionistas@bbva.com, providing proof of identity. The new address will be included in our shareholder register..

When does BBVA post its results?

BBVA presents and posts its results on a quarterly basis.

Quarterly results and presentations are published on www.bbva.com in the Information for Shareholders and Investors section. You may also watch a webcast of the presentation.

Where can I check BBVA's quarterly results and the annual report?

You can view BBVA´s quarterly results here.

What taxes are payable on share sales?

The sale of shares generates a gain (profit) or loss on capital, which is determined by the difference between the sale value (after deducting any possible fees on the sale) and the purchase price (increased by any possible fees on the sale) of the shares in question. From 1 January 2016, regardless of the period in which they were generated, capital gains are included in the savings tax base and are taxed according to the following scale:

 

  • Savings tax base up to 6,000 euros –> 19%
  • 6,000 euros to 50,000 euros –> 21%
  • 50,000 euros and over –> 23%

What taxation applies to dividends?

Dividends are considered as income from capital and are included in the savings tax base, according to the following scale:

  •   Savings tax base up to 6,000 euros –> 19%
  • 6,000 euros to 50,000 euros –> 21%
  • 50,000 euros and over –>23%

 

On receiving the dividends, 19% tax withholding is applied; subsequently, dividends must be included in the shareholder’s income tax return for the year they are received.

Deductible costs include administration costs and deposit of shares, but do not include discretionary and individualized management costs.

 

Sale of rights:
The transfer of preferential subscription rights will be treated for tax purposes as capital gains in the period when the transfer is made, and will be subject to 19% tax withholding1.
1.Until December 31, 2016, the rights transfer amount will reduce the purchase price of the shares that originate them (old shares). However, if this amount is greater than the purchase price of these shares (old shares), the difference will be considered a capital gain for the tax period in which the rights transfer takes place, without tax withholding.

What tax regime applies to the options offered by the Dividend Option?

Option to sell the rights to BBVA:
This option is equivalent to receiving a cash dividend and is subject to tax withholding upon receipt. It must be included in the savings tax base of the tax return corresponding to the year in which it is received.

Sale of rights on the stock market:

This option is not subject to tax withholding at the time the rights are sold. The tax regime applied is as follows: the rights transfer amount will reduce the purchase price of the shares that originate them (old shares). However, if this amount is greater than the purchase price of these shares (old shares), the difference will be considered a capital gain for the tax period in which the rights transfer takes place.

Subscription opion on new shares
This option is not subject to tax withholding at the time of award of the new shares.
The tax treatment applicable to future transfers for residents is as follows: the purchase price of the assigned shares (new shares) and the shares from which the rights derive (old shares) will be the result of dividing the total cost of the old shares (the new shares are completely released) by the number of shares, including the old ones and the scrip issue shares, as applicable.
The age of the completely released shares (new shares) will be the same as the shares from which the rights arise (old shares).

What benefits do I have as a BBVA shareholder?

  • A dividend.
  • Financial benefits if you have 4,000 or more shares deposited with BBVA.
  • Special products are available to quickly and easily increase your share holdings: the Dividend Reinvestment Plan and the Dividend Savings Plan.
  • The Ábaco card: This credit card allows you to invest in BBVA shares as you make purchases.
  • Ábaco Club offers a broad selection of non-financial products at special prices. A wide range of products are available, including art, gastronomy, health, technology, etc.
  • Ábaco magazine is a magazine for BBVA shareholders. It is only published online and you can view  it here (only in Spanish).
  • Exemption from fees on the purchase of BBVA shares via our Bank and exemption from custodial and administration fees on BBVA shares deposited with our Bank.
  • Direct and personal service is available via our Shareholder Helpline +34 912 24 98 21 or e-mail accionistas@bbva.com.
  • Up to date information on the Bank and special offers for shareholders via the website.
  • Exercise of your right to vote at the GSM.

 

You can view information on all products here.

What are the benefits of having BBVA shares deposited with the Bank?

BBVA shares deposited with BBVA are exempt from administration and custodial fees, and are also eligible for the Dividend Reinvestment Plan.

What are the benefits of having 4,000 or more BBVA shares deposited with the Bank?

As well as exemption from administration and custodial fees, individuals can benefit from a number of financial benefits:

  • No administration and maintenance fees for the current account associated with the share contract where the 4,000 or more shares are deposited.
  • No issuing and receiving fees for transfers in euros to Spain and EU Member States plus Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland made in euros, Swedish crowns or Romanian Leu (RON), made with charge/credit in the current account associated with the share contract.
  • Free credit or debit card. For Ahora, Después or Àbaco cards paid through the account associated with the share contract. Maximum one per account holder.
  • No fees for issuing euro-denominated checks from the account associated with the share contract and for compensation and negotiation for deposits of euro-denominated checks in Spain in the account associated with the share contract.

What products allow me to invest in BBVA shares in the most advantageous way possible?

BBVA gives you the opportunity to increase your portfolio of BBVA shares under advantageous conditions via the Dividend Reinvestment Plan, the Savings Plan and the Àbaco card.

These products are linked to a Dividend Reinvestment Account, which receives 8% nominal annual interest (8.16%). It is used only for purchasing BBVA shares at no cost, being free of all banking fees, broker fees and stock market fees. The purchase is carried out quarterly or half-yearly, depending on the option you prefer.

What is the Dividend Reinvestment Plan; what benefits does it offer and how do I sign up?

The Dividend Reinvestment Plan allows you to automatically reinvest dividends received from your BBVA shares and some other shares in your portfolio, such as Telefónica, Endesa, Santander and Repsol-YPF, when they are deposited with BBVA.

The main advantage is that it makes the best use of your dividends, which benefit from the special conditions available to Dividend Reinvestment Accounts, with a nominal 8% interest per year, while share purchases are exempted from bank fees, broker fees and stock market fees.

The only prerequisite for this product is that your shares are deposited with BBVA. To apply for the product, contact the branch where you hold your deposit contract.

What is the Savings Plan; what benefits does it offer and how do I sign up?

The Savings Plan lets you make regular monthly contributions of between 50 and 500 euros to the Special Reinvestment Account, used to purchase BBVA shares.

Investments in shares via this product benefit from the annual 8% nominal interest accrued by the Dividend Reinvestment Account. In addition, the share purchases are subject to no bank fees, broker fees or stock market fees.

To contract this product you must hold a current account at our Bank. If you meet this requirement you may apply for the Savings Plan at any BBVA branch. If you still do not have a Dividend Reinvestment Account, you can open one at the same time.

What is the Àbaco Card; what benefits does it offer and how can I get one?

The Àbaco Card is a Visa credit card that allows you to increase your shareholding while paying for goods and services.

It works like this: every time you make a payment with the card, the sum is rounded up to the nearest multiple of five. The amount added is paid to your Dividend Reinvestment Account. The balance plus interest (annual nominal 8%) is used to buy BBVA shares free of any bank, broker or stock exchange fees.

The card has other benefits too:

  • Bonus payment of 4.5% for purchases made with the card from the BBVA Services store.
  • Legal and tax advice all year round.
  • Defense for traffic fines and recovery of points lost on driver´s driving license.
  • Travel accident insurance.

You must have 1,000 or more BBVA shares deposited with our Bank to be eligible for the card. You may apply at any BBVA branch. If you do not already have a Dividend Reinvestment Account you can open one at the same time.

How can I change or cancel the conditions of my reinvestment account?

Reinvestment account holders can issue an order to change the percentage of securities used for reinvestment, or the amount to be transferred monthly to the Savings Plan, provided that the order is made 10 days before the reinvestment date. A cancellation order must also be submitted 10 days prior to the reinvestment date. The balance of the reinvestment account will then be deposited in the current account, but without interest. Although the contract is indefinite, the Bank may terminate the contract if the holders give 15 days notice.

What should I do if I want to receive the Ábaco magazine?

Ábaco magazine is only published online and can be found here (only  in Spanish).

How do I join the Àbaco Club?

All BBVA shareholders are members of the Àbaco Club, regardless of the number of shares they hold. To take advantage of all the benefits of the club contact our Shareholder Helpline +34 912 24 98 21 or use the contact phone numbers provided with each offer. Find out what offers are available in the Àbaco magazine or via our website .

How can I take part in shareholder competitions and find out who won?

To take part in the competitions follow the instructions provided with each. You must first send your submission by e-mail or ordinary mail to the PO box indicated.

All competitions are held before a notary and the winners are published on the website and Àbaco magazine. You can also ask the Shareholder Office to find out who the winners are and the competition rules.

Who may attend the General Meeting?

The Company’s General Meetings may be attended by anyone owning 500 or more shares, provided that their holding is registered in the corresponding accounting records five days before the General Meeting is scheduled and that they conserve at least this same number of shares until the time when the General Meeting is held.

Holders of fewer shares may group together until achieving the required number, appointing a representative.

BBVA will issue an attendance card for access to the place where the General Meeting is being held. The Bank will provide this card to each shareholder entitled to attend the General Meeting who so requests. The card will indicate the number of shares held by its bearer. Requests for this card may be sent to the Shareholder Helpdesk, sent over the website or presented at any BBVA branch office.

Nonetheless, if holders of fewer shares than 500 wish to attend, they may apply for an invitation to the General Meeting through the Shareholder Helpdesk, the website or any BBVA branch office. They may be given an invitation after giving due consideration to inevitable space constraints in the facilities where General Meetings can be held and the very high number of shareholders in the Company.

In order to accredit the identity of shareholders and their valid proxies, persons presenting their attendance card on entering the building where the General Meeting is to be held may be asked to prove their identity by presenting their national identity document or any other official document generally accepted for such purposes.

Legal entities will act through their legal proxies, who must give due accreditation.

How many voting rights does a shareholder present or represented in the General Meeting have?

Each share present or represented in the General Meeting confers one voting right.

How you can exercise the representation to attend the General Meeting?

Any shareholder entitled to attend may be represented by another person who need not necessarily be a shareholder.

Proxies must be conferred specifically for each General Meeting, using the proxy form established by the Company, which will be recorded on the attendance card. A single shareholder may not be represented at the General Meeting by more than one proxy, except under the circumstances provided in the Act for brokering institutions.

Representation conferred to someone not eligible bylaw to act as proxy will be null and void, as will proxies conferred by holders in trust or in apparent agency.

Proxies must be conferred in writing or by remote communication media that comply with the requirements of law regarding remote voting. They must be specific for each General Meeting.

The representative with proxy may represent more than one shareholder.
There is no limit on the number of shareholders that can be represented.
When a representative has proxies from several shareholders, he/she may vote in different ways according to the instructions given by each shareholder.
Proxies will always be revocable. Should the shareholder represented attend the General Meeting in person, his/her proxy will be deemed null and void.

Revocation of proxy may be done in writing or over electronic media in compliance with the formal requirements and system established for this purpose by the Company.

The number of shares represented will be calculated for the valid constitution of the General Meeting.

How I may proxy or vote remotely?

Shareholders may grant voting proxy or vote by post, e-mail or any other remote communication media, provided the voter’s identity is duly guaranteed.

Shareholders voting remotely will be counted as in attendance for the purposes of constituting the quorum for the General Meeting.

Remote votes may be submitted using the form that the Company establishes for remote voting, which may be incorporated into the attendance card.

Shareholders wishing to vote by post may apply to the Company, once the notice of meeting has been published, through the Shareholder Helpdesk or any BBVA branch office, requesting it to issue a document for postal voting in their name. Once completed according to its instructions and within the deadlines it establishes, it must be sent to the Shareholder Helpdesk by registered post with receipt to be processed and counted. The information on postal voting will be disseminated on the Company website.

Postal votes must be received by the Shareholder Helpdesk at least 24 hours before the date on which the General Meeting is scheduled at first summons in order to leave enough time for them to be processed. Postal votes received after this deadline will not be counted.

Shareholders wishing to vote by e-mail will follow the procedures the Company establishes pursuant to law and any regulations published for such purpose, with the technical media available at any time. Shareholders will be provided with information on this over the Company website.

On what sustainability indices is BBVA listed?

The presence of BBVA in the sustainability indexes is updated quarterly in the Shareholders and Investors Website. You can check it here.

What are the main strategic initiatives of BBVA's Responsible Banking?

  • Creation of lasting and more balanced relationships with our customers through transparent, clear and responsible communication and financial literacy in the solutions that we offer.
  •  Full integration of how we do business through responsible business policies, a reputational risk model, and a peoplecentric culture throughout the Organization.
  • Promotion of responsible and sustainable growth through financial inclusion, sustainable finance, support for SMEs and responsible investment.
  • Investment in the community, with priority for financial literacy initiatives for society, entrepreneurship, knowledge and other social causes that are relevant from a local point of view.

How does BBVA manage its Responsible Banking model?

At BBVA we have a differential banking model that we refer to as responsible banking, based on seeking out a return adjusted to principles, strict legal compliance, best practices and the creation of long-term value for all stakeholders. It is reflected in the Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility or Responsible Banking Policy, which is approved by the Board of Directors. The Policy’s mission is to manage the responsibility for the Bank’s impact on people and society, which is key to the delivery of BBVA’s Purpose.

All the business and support areas integrate this policy into their operational models. The Responsible Business unit coordinates their implementation and basically operates as a second line for offering support.

Where can I find more information about BBVA's Responsible Banking initiatives?

BBVA includes information on the progress of its Responsible Banking model in its quarterly and annual financial reports. In addition, it regularly publishes up-to-date contents on this topic on the website www.bbva.com.

What are ADSs? What are the benefits to a U.S. investor?

American Depositary Shares, or ADSs, are securities issued by a U.S. commercial bank that represent an established number of shares of a foreign-based company’s equity. ADSs are quoted in U.S. dollars and trade, settle and clear in the same manner as other U.S. securities. Moreover, you can buy and sell ADSs through full-service brokers or through discount or online brokers.

What is the difference between an ADS and an ordinary share?

Although the BBVA ADSs are similar to the underlying ordinary shares and carry substantially the same rights, they are not identical. For a full explanation of BBVA ADSs, please visit www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml and read the section entitled “Description of BBVA American Depositary Shares” in BBVA’s Form F-4 filed on June 29, 2007 with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

On what stock exchange are BBVA's ADSs traded?

BBVA ADSs are quoted in U.S. dollars on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “BBVA”.

Do BBVA ADSs holders have voting rights?

Yes, holders of BBVA ADSs have voting rights. Holders of BBVA ADSs as of the record date for a particular stockholder vote will be entitled to vote on proposals by instructing BNY to vote their shares on their behalf. Corporate action notifications and stockholder meeting materials will be delivered to holders of BBVA ADSs in English.

How are ADSs represented?

ADSs can be held directly through BNY Mellon’s transfer agent Computershare in physical (certificated) or book-entry (electronic) form via a method call Direct Registration System (“DRS”). With the DRS, shareholders are sent a DRS Transaction Statement evidencing their ownership of BBVA ADSs.

ADSs can also be held via a broker/advisor. In this case, it is likely that the shares are held in book-entry form only and trades are settled via The Depositary Trust Company (DTC).

What is the Direct Registration System (DRS)?

The Direct Registration System (DRS) is a non-certificate, statement-based method of holding shares registered directly with BNY Mellon’s transfer agent, Computershare. Benefits of holding shares in DRS form include:

  • DRS shares carry all the rights and privileges of certificated shares.
  • Costs associated with holding physical certificates, such as storage/safekeeping and/or certificate replacement, are eliminated.
  • DRS enables electronic transactions, such as share transfer or delivery to/from a brokerage account, without the need to deliver a physical certificate.

How can I access my DRS account with BNY Mellon's transfer agent Computershare?

You can access your account online at www.mybnymdr.com or by calling 866-415-7475.

How are dividends paid out?

ADS dividends and other cash distributions are paid in U.S. dollars at market foreign exchange rates. The depositary bank makes payments as efficiently as other cash distributions for listed U.S. securities. ADS investors receive dividend payments through their existing brokerage arrangements or, for Registered Holders, by check issued directly from the depositary bank.

Dividend History

For information on the historical dividends paid to ADS holders investors should visit BNY Mellon’s website at https://www.adrbnymellon.com and type the ticker symbol “BBVA” under the DR Directory Guide.

What are the tax consequences in Spain?

Under Spanish law, dividends paid by a Spanish company to a non-Spanish resident holder are subject to a Spanish Non-Resident Withholding Tax (NRIT) of 18%. However, under the current tax treaty between the U.S. and Spain, certain U.S. residents are subject to a 15% withholding tax at source. To benefit from the reduced rate, an individual must have on file with BNYM or their broker proof of U.S. residency via a 6166 certificate. In order to obtain the certificate 6166, one must apply for it via the Internal Revenue Service form 8802 (www.irs.gov).

The taxes are withheld from the gross dividend payment and therefore the U.S. resident will receive a net dividend payment.

BBVA recommends that all individuals seek professional tax advice.

Does the BBVA ADS program have a Dividend Reinvestment Plan?

Global BuyDIRECT is a BNY Mellon sponsored dividend reinvestment and direct purchase program for ADS programs of non-U.S. companies. BBVA’s ADS Global BuyDIRECT plan allows existing stockholders to use dividends to automatically purchase additional BBVA ADSs. The plan also allows first-time and existing investors to purchase additional BBVA ADSs on a transactional basis. These investments are made through BNY Mellon’s transfer agent, Computershare.

As a participant in BBVA’s ADS Global BuyDIRECT plan, an investor benefits from the direct ownership of his or her ADSs, the efficiency of receiving corporate communications directly from BBVA, and the savings resulting from reduced brokerage and transaction costs.

For more information about BBVA’s ADS Global BuyDIRECT plan, please visit www.mybnymdr.com or call 866-415-7475.

Do I have to pay capital gains tax in Spain when I sell my BBVA ADSs?

No, you are only required to pay a capital gains tax, if applicable, to the U.S. federal government on any gains recognized upon a sale of BBVA ADSs.

How can I convert the BBVA ADSs into BBVA ordinary shares?

In order to convert BBVA ADSs into ordinary shares, the broker will be required to have an account with a broker that is able to custodize ordinary shares in the Spanish Central Depository “Iberclear.” A broker may convert any BBVA ADSs into BBVA ordinary shares by calling BNY Mellon at 212-815-2267 or by email to adrdesk@bnymellon.com.

Does BBVA meet U.S. regulatory requirements?

BBVA complies with all U.S. regulatory requirements under the Sarbanes Oxley Act and as such, all financial information is filed with the SEC (http://www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml).

Where can investors obtain more information on BBVA'S ADS?

To learn more about BBVA ADSs, please visit https://www.adrbnymellon.com/ and type the ticker symbol “BBVA” under the DR Directory Guide.

What is BBVA's business model and international footprint?

BBVA is a global financial group with a diversified business providing financial services in more than 30 countries to 71 million customers. It has a strong leadership position in the Spanish market, it is the largest financial institution in Mexico and it has leading franchises in South America and the Sunbelt region of the United States. It is also the leading shareholder in Garanti.

For more information please refer to bbva in brief

How can I obtain financial information on BBVA?

All the financial information is available in the Financials section.

How can I access BBVA's research service?

How can I access BBVA's press releases?

What are BBVA's credit ratings according to the rating agencies?

You can find detailed information in the Debt Investors/Ratings section of this website.

Who is BBVA's auditor?

The current audit firm is KPMG.

Where can I check the trading price of the BBVA share?

See our Share section on this website.

What is BBVA's ticker symbol?

Bloomberg: BBVASM

  • Reuters: BBVAMC
  • NYSE: BBVAUS

For more information visit: Share key figures

What is the nominal BBVA share value?

The nominal BBVA share value is 0.49 euros.

On what stock exchanges are BBVA shares traded?

The Bank’s shares are traded on the continuous market in Spain, as well as on the London and Mexico stock markets. BBVA American Depositary Shares (ADS) are traded on the New York Stock Exchange and also on the Lima Stock Exchange (Peru), under an exchange agreement between these two markets.

What capital increases has the Bank implemented?

The information on the BBVA Group’s capital increases can be found in the Capital issuance section.

Where can I buy BBVA shares?

You can buy BBVA shares through your bank or broker. If you are a BBVA customer you can order shares at your branch, via the BBVA helpline or online at www.bbva.es.

What costs are involved in the purchase of BBVA shares?

If you buy shares through BBVA you benefit from exemption from bank charges. You need only pay the brokerage fee (costs of the brokerage firm involved in the transaction) and stock exchange fee.

How can I check the number of BBVA shares I own?

If the purchase was made through BBVA and you still hold an account with us, you can find this information at bbva.es, visiting the share portfolio section. You can also ask your branch, which will tell you how many shares you own, when they were purchased and at what price.

If you made the purchase through another bank, you will have to consult such bank. Our Shareholder Office can also provide you with any information that is included in our shareholder register

I want to transfer my shares to BBVA. How do I do that?

Just take the most recent statement for the shares you want to transfer to any BBVA branch. The statement must be signed by all of the contract holders. The bank will take care of the rest. Once the shares have been transferred, you will be eligible for special benefits. Click here.

A transfer fee will be charged by the bank from which the securities are transferred. This fee may vary depending on the bank.

How does BBVA notify traditional dividend payments?

Once the BBVA Board of Directors approves the amount of payment, the Bank reports this information in a number of ways:

  • Notification to the Spanish National Stock Market Commission (CNMV).
  • Announcement on the Bank’s website.
  • Notification to shareholders who have subscribed to the notification service.
  • Via the Shareholder e-mail accionistas@bbva.com.

How can I find out what dividends have been paid by BBVA?

Check the history log of dividends paid out by BBVA here.

What does BBVA's Dividend Option consist of?

It is a remuneration scheme that enables shareholders to choose between different alternatives for their remuneration:

  • Receive new BBVA shares free of charge as a share capital increase by an amount equal to the dividend with no tax withholding.
  •  Sell to BBVA the free subscription rights allocated in the capital increase (in the exercise of the free allocation right commitment undertaken by the Bank) and receive the dividend in cash after deducting the tax withholding.
  • Sell the free subscription rights allocated to you in the share capital increase on the stock market, during the trading period; you receive the amount in cash after deducting tax withholding.

 

What is the dividend yield on BBVA shares?

The dividend yield on BBVA shares depends on the total dividend for the year in question and the share price. These figures are published in the quarterly results.

You can access the BBVA Group’s quarterly reports here.

What services and information can the Shareholder Office provide?

The Shareholder Office is open to all BBVA shareholders resident in Spain and offers the following services:

  • Information on the Group and the shares.
  • Resolution of issues raised by shareholders.
  • Special products offered to our shareholders.
  • Shareholder suggestions.

How can I get in touch with the Shareholder Office?

  • Shareholder helpline +34 912 24 98 21.
  • accionistas@bbva.com.
  • Shareholder Office – Ciudad BBVA- Calle Azul, 4; 28050 Madrid

My shareholder notifications are being sent to my old address, where can I report a change of address?

If you are a customer of the Bank you can notify a change of address at your branch, which will update your data in the customer and shareholder database.

 

If you are a shareholder but have no commercial relationship with the Bank, you may notify your change of address at any BBVA branch, via the Shareholder Helpline +34 912 24 98 21 or by e-mail accionistas@bbva.com, providing proof of identity. The new address will be included in our shareholder register..

When does BBVA post its results?

BBVA presents and posts its results on a quarterly basis.

Quarterly results and presentations are published on www.bbva.com in the Information for Shareholders and Investors section. You may also watch a webcast of the presentation.

Where can I check BBVA's quarterly results and the annual report?

You can view BBVA´s quarterly results here.

What taxes are payable on share sales?

The sale of shares generates a gain (profit) or loss on capital, which is determined by the difference between the sale value (after deducting any possible fees on the sale) and the purchase price (increased by any possible fees on the sale) of the shares in question. From 1 January 2016, regardless of the period in which they were generated, capital gains are included in the savings tax base and are taxed according to the following scale:

 

  • Savings tax base up to 6,000 euros –> 19%
  • 6,000 euros to 50,000 euros –> 21%
  • 50,000 euros and over –> 23%

What taxation applies to dividends?

Dividends are considered as income from capital and are included in the savings tax base, according to the following scale:

  •   Savings tax base up to 6,000 euros –> 19%
  • 6,000 euros to 50,000 euros –> 21%
  • 50,000 euros and over –>23%

 

On receiving the dividends, 19% tax withholding is applied; subsequently, dividends must be included in the shareholder’s income tax return for the year they are received.

Deductible costs include administration costs and deposit of shares, but do not include discretionary and individualized management costs.

 

Sale of rights:
The transfer of preferential subscription rights will be treated for tax purposes as capital gains in the period when the transfer is made, and will be subject to 19% tax withholding1.
1.Until December 31, 2016, the rights transfer amount will reduce the purchase price of the shares that originate them (old shares). However, if this amount is greater than the purchase price of these shares (old shares), the difference will be considered a capital gain for the tax period in which the rights transfer takes place, without tax withholding.

What tax regime applies to the options offered by the Dividend Option?

Option to sell the rights to BBVA:
This option is equivalent to receiving a cash dividend and is subject to tax withholding upon receipt. It must be included in the savings tax base of the tax return corresponding to the year in which it is received.

Sale of rights on the stock market:

This option is not subject to tax withholding at the time the rights are sold. The tax regime applied is as follows: the rights transfer amount will reduce the purchase price of the shares that originate them (old shares). However, if this amount is greater than the purchase price of these shares (old shares), the difference will be considered a capital gain for the tax period in which the rights transfer takes place.

Subscription opion on new shares
This option is not subject to tax withholding at the time of award of the new shares.
The tax treatment applicable to future transfers for residents is as follows: the purchase price of the assigned shares (new shares) and the shares from which the rights derive (old shares) will be the result of dividing the total cost of the old shares (the new shares are completely released) by the number of shares, including the old ones and the scrip issue shares, as applicable.
The age of the completely released shares (new shares) will be the same as the shares from which the rights arise (old shares).

What benefits do I have as a BBVA shareholder?

  • A dividend.
  • Financial benefits if you have 4,000 or more shares deposited with BBVA.
  • Special products are available to quickly and easily increase your share holdings: the Dividend Reinvestment Plan and the Dividend Savings Plan.
  • The Ábaco card: This credit card allows you to invest in BBVA shares as you make purchases.
  • Ábaco Club offers a broad selection of non-financial products at special prices. A wide range of products are available, including art, gastronomy, health, technology, etc.
  • Ábaco magazine is a magazine for BBVA shareholders. It is only published online and you can view  it here (only in Spanish).
  • Exemption from fees on the purchase of BBVA shares via our Bank and exemption from custodial and administration fees on BBVA shares deposited with our Bank.
  • Direct and personal service is available via our Shareholder Helpline +34 912 24 98 21 or e-mail accionistas@bbva.com.
  • Up to date information on the Bank and special offers for shareholders via the website.
  • Exercise of your right to vote at the GSM.

 

You can view information on all products here.

What are the benefits of having BBVA shares deposited with the Bank?

BBVA shares deposited with BBVA are exempt from administration and custodial fees, and are also eligible for the Dividend Reinvestment Plan.

What are the benefits of having 4,000 or more BBVA shares deposited with the Bank?

As well as exemption from administration and custodial fees, individuals can benefit from a number of financial benefits:

  • No administration and maintenance fees for the current account associated with the share contract where the 4,000 or more shares are deposited.
  • No issuing and receiving fees for transfers in euros to Spain and EU Member States plus Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland made in euros, Swedish crowns or Romanian Leu (RON), made with charge/credit in the current account associated with the share contract.
  • Free credit or debit card. For Ahora, Después or Àbaco cards paid through the account associated with the share contract. Maximum one per account holder.
  • No fees for issuing euro-denominated checks from the account associated with the share contract and for compensation and negotiation for deposits of euro-denominated checks in Spain in the account associated with the share contract.

What products allow me to invest in BBVA shares in the most advantageous way possible?

BBVA gives you the opportunity to increase your portfolio of BBVA shares under advantageous conditions via the Dividend Reinvestment Plan, the Savings Plan and the Àbaco card.

These products are linked to a Dividend Reinvestment Account, which receives 8% nominal annual interest (8.16%). It is used only for purchasing BBVA shares at no cost, being free of all banking fees, broker fees and stock market fees. The purchase is carried out quarterly or half-yearly, depending on the option you prefer.

What is the Dividend Reinvestment Plan; what benefits does it offer and how do I sign up?

The Dividend Reinvestment Plan allows you to automatically reinvest dividends received from your BBVA shares and some other shares in your portfolio, such as Telefónica, Endesa, Santander and Repsol-YPF, when they are deposited with BBVA.

The main advantage is that it makes the best use of your dividends, which benefit from the special conditions available to Dividend Reinvestment Accounts, with a nominal 8% interest per year, while share purchases are exempted from bank fees, broker fees and stock market fees.

The only prerequisite for this product is that your shares are deposited with BBVA. To apply for the product, contact the branch where you hold your deposit contract.

What is the Savings Plan; what benefits does it offer and how do I sign up?

The Savings Plan lets you make regular monthly contributions of between 50 and 500 euros to the Special Reinvestment Account, used to purchase BBVA shares.

Investments in shares via this product benefit from the annual 8% nominal interest accrued by the Dividend Reinvestment Account. In addition, the share purchases are subject to no bank fees, broker fees or stock market fees.

To contract this product you must hold a current account at our Bank. If you meet this requirement you may apply for the Savings Plan at any BBVA branch. If you still do not have a Dividend Reinvestment Account, you can open one at the same time.

What is the Àbaco Card; what benefits does it offer and how can I get one?

The Àbaco Card is a Visa credit card that allows you to increase your shareholding while paying for goods and services.

It works like this: every time you make a payment with the card, the sum is rounded up to the nearest multiple of five. The amount added is paid to your Dividend Reinvestment Account. The balance plus interest (annual nominal 8%) is used to buy BBVA shares free of any bank, broker or stock exchange fees.

The card has other benefits too:

  • Bonus payment of 4.5% for purchases made with the card from the BBVA Services store.
  • Legal and tax advice all year round.
  • Defense for traffic fines and recovery of points lost on driver´s driving license.
  • Travel accident insurance.

You must have 1,000 or more BBVA shares deposited with our Bank to be eligible for the card. You may apply at any BBVA branch. If you do not already have a Dividend Reinvestment Account you can open one at the same time.

How can I change or cancel the conditions of my reinvestment account?

Reinvestment account holders can issue an order to change the percentage of securities used for reinvestment, or the amount to be transferred monthly to the Savings Plan, provided that the order is made 10 days before the reinvestment date. A cancellation order must also be submitted 10 days prior to the reinvestment date. The balance of the reinvestment account will then be deposited in the current account, but without interest. Although the contract is indefinite, the Bank may terminate the contract if the holders give 15 days notice.

What should I do if I want to receive the Ábaco magazine?

Ábaco magazine is only published online and can be found here (only  in Spanish).

How do I join the Àbaco Club?

All BBVA shareholders are members of the Àbaco Club, regardless of the number of shares they hold. To take advantage of all the benefits of the club contact our Shareholder Helpline +34 912 24 98 21 or use the contact phone numbers provided with each offer. Find out what offers are available in the Àbaco magazine or via our website .

How can I take part in shareholder competitions and find out who won?

To take part in the competitions follow the instructions provided with each. You must first send your submission by e-mail or ordinary mail to the PO box indicated.

All competitions are held before a notary and the winners are published on the website and Àbaco magazine. You can also ask the Shareholder Office to find out who the winners are and the competition rules.

Who may attend the General Meeting?

The Company’s General Meetings may be attended by anyone owning 500 or more shares, provided that their holding is registered in the corresponding accounting records five days before the General Meeting is scheduled and that they conserve at least this same number of shares until the time when the General Meeting is held.

Holders of fewer shares may group together until achieving the required number, appointing a representative.

BBVA will issue an attendance card for access to the place where the General Meeting is being held. The Bank will provide this card to each shareholder entitled to attend the General Meeting who so requests. The card will indicate the number of shares held by its bearer. Requests for this card may be sent to the Shareholder Helpdesk, sent over the website or presented at any BBVA branch office.

Nonetheless, if holders of fewer shares than 500 wish to attend, they may apply for an invitation to the General Meeting through the Shareholder Helpdesk, the website or any BBVA branch office. They may be given an invitation after giving due consideration to inevitable space constraints in the facilities where General Meetings can be held and the very high number of shareholders in the Company.

In order to accredit the identity of shareholders and their valid proxies, persons presenting their attendance card on entering the building where the General Meeting is to be held may be asked to prove their identity by presenting their national identity document or any other official document generally accepted for such purposes.

Legal entities will act through their legal proxies, who must give due accreditation.

How many voting rights does a shareholder present or represented in the General Meeting have?

Each share present or represented in the General Meeting confers one voting right.

How you can exercise the representation to attend the General Meeting?

Any shareholder entitled to attend may be represented by another person who need not necessarily be a shareholder.

Proxies must be conferred specifically for each General Meeting, using the proxy form established by the Company, which will be recorded on the attendance card. A single shareholder may not be represented at the General Meeting by more than one proxy, except under the circumstances provided in the Act for brokering institutions.

Representation conferred to someone not eligible bylaw to act as proxy will be null and void, as will proxies conferred by holders in trust or in apparent agency.

Proxies must be conferred in writing or by remote communication media that comply with the requirements of law regarding remote voting. They must be specific for each General Meeting.

The representative with proxy may represent more than one shareholder.
There is no limit on the number of shareholders that can be represented.
When a representative has proxies from several shareholders, he/she may vote in different ways according to the instructions given by each shareholder.
Proxies will always be revocable. Should the shareholder represented attend the General Meeting in person, his/her proxy will be deemed null and void.

Revocation of proxy may be done in writing or over electronic media in compliance with the formal requirements and system established for this purpose by the Company.

The number of shares represented will be calculated for the valid constitution of the General Meeting.

How I may proxy or vote remotely?

Shareholders may grant voting proxy or vote by post, e-mail or any other remote communication media, provided the voter’s identity is duly guaranteed.

Shareholders voting remotely will be counted as in attendance for the purposes of constituting the quorum for the General Meeting.

Remote votes may be submitted using the form that the Company establishes for remote voting, which may be incorporated into the attendance card.

Shareholders wishing to vote by post may apply to the Company, once the notice of meeting has been published, through the Shareholder Helpdesk or any BBVA branch office, requesting it to issue a document for postal voting in their name. Once completed according to its instructions and within the deadlines it establishes, it must be sent to the Shareholder Helpdesk by registered post with receipt to be processed and counted. The information on postal voting will be disseminated on the Company website.

Postal votes must be received by the Shareholder Helpdesk at least 24 hours before the date on which the General Meeting is scheduled at first summons in order to leave enough time for them to be processed. Postal votes received after this deadline will not be counted.

Shareholders wishing to vote by e-mail will follow the procedures the Company establishes pursuant to law and any regulations published for such purpose, with the technical media available at any time. Shareholders will be provided with information on this over the Company website.

On what sustainability indices is BBVA listed?

The presence of BBVA in the sustainability indexes is updated quarterly in the Shareholders and Investors Website. You can check it here.

What are the main strategic initiatives of BBVA's Responsible Banking?

  • Creation of lasting and more balanced relationships with our customers through transparent, clear and responsible communication and financial literacy in the solutions that we offer.
  •  Full integration of how we do business through responsible business policies, a reputational risk model, and a peoplecentric culture throughout the Organization.
  • Promotion of responsible and sustainable growth through financial inclusion, sustainable finance, support for SMEs and responsible investment.
  • Investment in the community, with priority for financial literacy initiatives for society, entrepreneurship, knowledge and other social causes that are relevant from a local point of view.

How does BBVA manage its Responsible Banking model?

At BBVA we have a differential banking model that we refer to as responsible banking, based on seeking out a return adjusted to principles, strict legal compliance, best practices and the creation of long-term value for all stakeholders. It is reflected in the Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility or Responsible Banking Policy, which is approved by the Board of Directors. The Policy’s mission is to manage the responsibility for the Bank’s impact on people and society, which is key to the delivery of BBVA’s Purpose.

All the business and support areas integrate this policy into their operational models. The Responsible Business unit coordinates their implementation and basically operates as a second line for offering support.

Where can I find more information about BBVA's Responsible Banking initiatives?

BBVA includes information on the progress of its Responsible Banking model in its quarterly and annual financial reports. In addition, it regularly publishes up-to-date contents on this topic on the website www.bbva.com.

What are ADSs? What are the benefits to a U.S. investor?

American Depositary Shares, or ADSs, are securities issued by a U.S. commercial bank that represent an established number of shares of a foreign-based company’s equity. ADSs are quoted in U.S. dollars and trade, settle and clear in the same manner as other U.S. securities. Moreover, you can buy and sell ADSs through full-service brokers or through discount or online brokers.

What is the difference between an ADS and an ordinary share?

Although the BBVA ADSs are similar to the underlying ordinary shares and carry substantially the same rights, they are not identical. For a full explanation of BBVA ADSs, please visit www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml and read the section entitled “Description of BBVA American Depositary Shares” in BBVA’s Form F-4 filed on June 29, 2007 with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

On what stock exchange are BBVA's ADSs traded?

BBVA ADSs are quoted in U.S. dollars on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “BBVA”.

Do BBVA ADSs holders have voting rights?

Yes, holders of BBVA ADSs have voting rights. Holders of BBVA ADSs as of the record date for a particular stockholder vote will be entitled to vote on proposals by instructing BNY to vote their shares on their behalf. Corporate action notifications and stockholder meeting materials will be delivered to holders of BBVA ADSs in English.

How are ADSs represented?

ADSs can be held directly through BNY Mellon’s transfer agent Computershare in physical (certificated) or book-entry (electronic) form via a method call Direct Registration System (“DRS”). With the DRS, shareholders are sent a DRS Transaction Statement evidencing their ownership of BBVA ADSs.

ADSs can also be held via a broker/advisor. In this case, it is likely that the shares are held in book-entry form only and trades are settled via The Depositary Trust Company (DTC).

What is the Direct Registration System (DRS)?

The Direct Registration System (DRS) is a non-certificate, statement-based method of holding shares registered directly with BNY Mellon’s transfer agent, Computershare. Benefits of holding shares in DRS form include:

  • DRS shares carry all the rights and privileges of certificated shares.
  • Costs associated with holding physical certificates, such as storage/safekeeping and/or certificate replacement, are eliminated.
  • DRS enables electronic transactions, such as share transfer or delivery to/from a brokerage account, without the need to deliver a physical certificate.

How can I access my DRS account with BNY Mellon's transfer agent Computershare?

You can access your account online at www.mybnymdr.com or by calling 866-415-7475.

How are dividends paid out?

ADS dividends and other cash distributions are paid in U.S. dollars at market foreign exchange rates. The depositary bank makes payments as efficiently as other cash distributions for listed U.S. securities. ADS investors receive dividend payments through their existing brokerage arrangements or, for Registered Holders, by check issued directly from the depositary bank.

Dividend History

For information on the historical dividends paid to ADS holders investors should visit BNY Mellon’s website at https://www.adrbnymellon.com and type the ticker symbol “BBVA” under the DR Directory Guide.

What are the tax consequences in Spain?

Under Spanish law, dividends paid by a Spanish company to a non-Spanish resident holder are subject to a Spanish Non-Resident Withholding Tax (NRIT) of 18%. However, under the current tax treaty between the U.S. and Spain, certain U.S. residents are subject to a 15% withholding tax at source. To benefit from the reduced rate, an individual must have on file with BNYM or their broker proof of U.S. residency via a 6166 certificate. In order to obtain the certificate 6166, one must apply for it via the Internal Revenue Service form 8802 (www.irs.gov).

The taxes are withheld from the gross dividend payment and therefore the U.S. resident will receive a net dividend payment.

BBVA recommends that all individuals seek professional tax advice.

Does the BBVA ADS program have a Dividend Reinvestment Plan?

Global BuyDIRECT is a BNY Mellon sponsored dividend reinvestment and direct purchase program for ADS programs of non-U.S. companies. BBVA’s ADS Global BuyDIRECT plan allows existing stockholders to use dividends to automatically purchase additional BBVA ADSs. The plan also allows first-time and existing investors to purchase additional BBVA ADSs on a transactional basis. These investments are made through BNY Mellon’s transfer agent, Computershare.

As a participant in BBVA’s ADS Global BuyDIRECT plan, an investor benefits from the direct ownership of his or her ADSs, the efficiency of receiving corporate communications directly from BBVA, and the savings resulting from reduced brokerage and transaction costs.

For more information about BBVA’s ADS Global BuyDIRECT plan, please visit www.mybnymdr.com or call 866-415-7475.

Do I have to pay capital gains tax in Spain when I sell my BBVA ADSs?

No, you are only required to pay a capital gains tax, if applicable, to the U.S. federal government on any gains recognized upon a sale of BBVA ADSs.

How can I convert the BBVA ADSs into BBVA ordinary shares?

In order to convert BBVA ADSs into ordinary shares, the broker will be required to have an account with a broker that is able to custodize ordinary shares in the Spanish Central Depository “Iberclear.” A broker may convert any BBVA ADSs into BBVA ordinary shares by calling BNY Mellon at 212-815-2267 or by email to adrdesk@bnymellon.com.

Does BBVA meet U.S. regulatory requirements?

BBVA complies with all U.S. regulatory requirements under the Sarbanes Oxley Act and as such, all financial information is filed with the SEC (http://www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml).

Where can investors obtain more information on BBVA'S ADS?

To learn more about BBVA ADSs, please visit https://www.adrbnymellon.com/ and type the ticker symbol “BBVA” under the DR Directory Guide.

Updated page 11 May 2017