BANPONCE CORP
10-K, 1997-03-21
STATE COMMERCIAL BANKS
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<PAGE>   1
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

                             Washington, D.C. 20549

                                    FORM 10-K

 X              ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
- ---            THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 [NO FEE REQUIRED,
                          EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 7, 1996]
                           
                   For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1996
                                       OR
              TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
- ---           THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED)

                           Commission File No. 0-13818

                              BANPONCE CORPORATION
                              --------------------

                 Incorporated in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico

                   IRS Employer Identification No. 66-0416582

                          Principal Executive Offices:
                          ----------------------------
                            209 Munoz Rivera Avenue
                          Hato Rey, Puerto Rico 00918
                        Telephone Number: (787) 765-9800

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT: NONE
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:

                         Common Stock ($6.00 par value)

              8.35% Non-Cumulative Monthly Income Preferred Stock,
             1994 Series A (Liquidation Preference $25.00 Per Share)

       Series A Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock Purchase Rights

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  X  No    .
                                       ---    ---

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. [ ]

             ------------------------------------------------------

As of February 28, 1997 the Corporation had 66,121,855 shares of common stock
outstanding. The aggregate market value of the common stock held by
non-affiliates of the Corporation was $2,380,387,000 based upon the reported
closing price of $36.00 on the NASDAQ National Market System on that date.

                      DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
                      -----------------------------------
                        
         (1) Portions of the Corporation's Annual Report to Shareholders for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 are incorporated herein by reference in
response to Item 1 of Part I.

         (2) Portions of the Corporation's Proxy Statement relating to the 1997
Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Corporation are incorporated herein by
reference to Items 10 through 13 of Part III.

                                                                               1
<PAGE>   2
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            Page
                                                                            ----
<S>         <C>                                                             <C>
PART I
- ------

Item 1      Business....................................................     3
Item 2      Properties..................................................    10
Item 3      Legal Proceedings...........................................    11
Item 4      Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.........    11

PART II
- -------

Item 5      Market for Registrant's Common Stock and Related
              Stockholder Matters.......................................    11
Item 6      Selected Financial Data.....................................    12
Item 7      Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
              Condition and Results of Operations.......................    12
Item 8      Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.................    13
Item 9      Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
              Accounting and Financial Disclosure.......................    13
PART III
- --------

Item 10     Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant..........    13
Item 11     Executive Compensation......................................    13
Item 12     Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
              and Management............................................    13
Item 13     Certain Relationships and Related Transactions..............    13


PART IV
- -------

Item 14     Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and
              Reports on Form 8-K.......................................    14
</TABLE>

2
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                                     PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

         BANPONCE CORPORATION (the "Corporation") is a diversified, publicly
owned bank holding company, incorporated under the General Corporation Law of
Puerto Rico in November 1984. It provides a wide variety of financial services
through its principal subsidiaries: Banco Popular de Puerto Rico ("Banco
Popular" or the "Bank"), BP Capital Markets, Inc. ("BP Capital") and Popular
International Bank, Inc. ("PIB"). The Corporation is subject to the provisions
of the U.S. Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 (the "BHC Act") and, accordingly,
subject to the supervision and regulation of the Board of Governors of the
Federal Reserve System (the "Federal Reserve Board"). Banco Popular, the
Corporation's principal banking subsidiary, was incorporated over 100 years ago
in 1893 and is Puerto Rico's largest bank with total assets of $14.0 billion,
deposits of $10.1 billion and stockholder's equity of $1.0 billion at December
31, 1996. The Bank accounted for 84% of the total consolidated assets of the
Corporation at December 31, 1996. The Bank is a full-service commercial bank,
and Puerto Rico's largest banking institution with a delivery system of 178
branches and 327 automated teller machines on the island. The Bank also has the
largest trust operation in Puerto Rico and is the largest servicer of mortgage
loans for investors. In addition, it operates the largest Hispanic bank branch
network in the mainland United States with 29 branches in New York and an agency
in Chicago. As of December 31, 1996, these branches had a total of approximately
$1.5 billion in deposits. The Bank also operates seven branches in the U.S.
Virgin Islands and one branch in the British Virgin Islands. The Bank is a
member of the Federal Reserve System and is also subject to the supervision of
the Office of the Commissioner of Financial Institutions of the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico and the Superintendent of Banks of the State of New York. Banco
Popular's deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the
"FDIC"). In addition, Banco Popular has three subsidiaries, Popular Leasing &
Rental, Inc., Puerto Rico's largest vehicle leasing and daily rental company,
Popular Consumer Services, Inc., a small-loan and secondary mortgage company
with 35 offices in Puerto Rico operating under the name of Best Finance, and
Popular Mortgage, Inc., a mortgage loan company with four offices in Puerto Rico
operating under the name of Puerto Rico Home Mortgage. BP Capital Markets, Inc.
is a direct subsidiary of the Corporation engaged in the business of securities
broker-dealer in Puerto Rico, with institutional brokerage, financial advisory,
and investment and security brokerage operations.

         PIB, incorporated under the Puerto Rico International Banking Center
Act ("IBC Act"), owns all issued and outstanding stock of BanPonce Financial
Corp ("Financial"), a Delaware corporation. PIB is principally engaged in
providing managerial services to its subsidiaries. Financial is the direct owner
of all the issued and outstanding shares of Pioneer Bancorp, Inc., a corporation
organized under the laws of Delaware and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and
a registered bank holding company under the BHC Act of 1956, which through its
wholly-owned subsidiary River Associates, Bancorp, Inc., a Delaware corporation,
owns and operates Banco Popular, Illinois (formerly Pioneer Bank & Trust
Company) a bank organized under the laws of the State of Illinois with five
branches in that state. The deposits of Banco Popular, Illinois are insured by
the FDIC. As of December 31, 1996 the assets of Banco Popular, Illinois were
$467.4 million and its deposits were $375.3 million.

         Financial is also the direct owner of all the common stock of Banco
Popular, FSB, a federal savings bank which acquired from the Resolution Trust
Corporation ("RTC") certain assets and all of the deposits of four New Jersey
branches of the former Carteret Federal Savings Bank, a federal savings bank
under Resolution Trust Corporation conservatorship. The deposits of Banco
Popular, FSB are insured by the FDIC and it is subject to the supervision of the
Office of Thrift Supervision. As a result of the ownership of Banco Popular,
FSB, the Corporation has become a registered savings and loan holding company
under the Home Owners' Loan Act.

         Banco Popular, FSB owns Equity One, Inc., a Delaware corporation
(formerly Spring Financial Services, Inc.) ("Equity One"). Equity One is a
diversified consumer finance company engaged in the business of granting
personal and mortgage loans and providing dealer financing through 102 offices
in 28 states with total assets of $1.1 billion as of December 31, 1996. Equity
One had initially been acquired by Financial on September 30, 1991, prior to
which time Financial had no significant business operations.

         On September 30, 1996, Financial acquired all of the common stock of
CombanCorp, a corporation organized under the laws of California and
headquartered in Los Angeles, and a registered bank holding company under the
BHC Act. CombanCorp owns Banco Popular, National Association (California)
("Banco Popular, N.A. (California)"), a national bank with four branches in
California. The deposits of Banco Popular, N.A. (California) are also insured by
the FDIC and it is subject to the supervision of the Office of the Comptroller
of the Currency. As of December 31, 1996, it had assets of $139.5 million and
deposits of $100.9 million.

                                                                               3
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         The Corporation is a legal entity separate and distinct from its
subsidiaries. There are various legal limitations governing the extent to which
the Corporation's banking and savings bank subsidiaries may extend credit, pay
dividends or otherwise supply funds to, or engage in transactions with, the
Corporation or certain of its other subsidiaries. The rights of the Corporation
to participate in any distribution of assets of any subsidiary upon its
liquidation or reorganization or otherwise, are subject to the prior claims of
creditors of that subsidiary, except to the extent that the Corporation may
itself be a creditor of that subsidiary and its claims are recognized. Claims on
the Corporation's subsidiaries by creditors other than the Corporation may
include long-term debt and substantial obligations with respect to deposit
liabilities, federal funds purchased, securities sold under agreements to
repurchase and commercial paper, as well as various other liabilities.

         The Corporation's business is described on pages 10 through 29 of the
Business Review Section of the Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended
December 31, 1996, information which is incorporated herein by reference.

                           REGULATION AND SUPERVISION
GENERAL

         The Corporation is a bank holding company subject to the supervision
and regulation of the Federal Reserve Board under the BHC Act. As a bank holding
company, the Corporation's activities and those of its banking and non-banking
subsidiaries are limited to the business of banking and activities closely
related to banking, and the Corporation may not directly or indirectly acquire
the ownership or control of more than 5% of any class of voting shares or
substantially all of the assets of any company, in the United States including a
bank, without the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board. In addition, bank
holding companies are generally prohibited under the BHC Act from engaging in
non-banking activities, subject to certain exceptions.

         Banco Popular is considered a foreign bank for purposes of the
International Banking Act of 1978 (the "IBA"). Under the IBA Banco Popular is
not permitted to operate a branch or agency that is located outside of its "home
state", except that a national bank with the same home state is permitted to do
so as described under "Interstate Banking and Other Recent Legislation" below.
Puerto Rico is not considered a state for purposes of these geographic
limitations. Banco Popular has designated the state of New York as its home
state. In addition, some states have laws prohibiting or restricting foreign
banks from acquiring banks located in such states and treat Puerto Rico's banks
and bank holding companies as foreign banks for such purposes.

         Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) and Banco Popular, FSB are subject to supervision and examination
by applicable federal and state banking agencies including, in the case of Banco
Popular, the Federal Reserve Board and the Office of the Commissioner of
Financial Institutions of Puerto Rico, in the case of Banco Popular, Illinois,
the FDIC and the Illinois Commissioner of Banks and Trust Companies, in the case
of Banco Popular, N.A. (California), the Office of the Comptroller of the
Currency (the "OCC") and in the case of Banco Popular, FSB, the Office of Thrift
Supervision (the "OTS") and the FDIC. Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois,
Banco Popular, N.A. (California) and Banco Popular, FSB are subject to
requirements and restrictions under federal and state law, including
requirements to maintain reserves against deposits, restrictions on the types
and amounts of loans that may be granted and the interest that may be charged
thereon, and limitations on the types of other investments that may be made and
the types of services that may be offered. Various consumer laws and regulations
also affect the operations of Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco
Popular, N.A. (California) and Banco Popular, FSB. In addition to the impact of
regulations, commercial banks are affected significantly by the actions of the
Federal Reserve Board as it attempts to control the money supply and credit
availability in order to influence the economy.

F D I C I A

         Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991
("FDICIA") the federal banking regulators must take prompt corrective action in
respect of depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital
requirements. FDICIA and regulations thereunder established five capital tiers:
"well capitalized", "adequately capitalized," "undercapitalized", "significantly
undercapitalized", and "critically undercapitalized". A depository institution
is deemed well capitalized if it maintains a leverage ratio of at least 5%, a
risk-based Tier 1 capital ratio of at least 6% and a risk-based total capital
ratio of at least 10% and is not subject to any written agreement or directive
to meet a specific capital level. A depository institution is deemed adequately
capitalized if it is not well capitalized but maintains a leverage ratio of at
least 4% (or at least 3% if given the highest regulatory rating and not
experiencing or anticipating significant growth), a risk-based Tier 1 capital
ratio of at least 4% and a risk-based total capital ratio of at least 8%. A
depository institution is deemed undercapitalized if it fails to meet the
standards for adequately capitalized institutions (unless it is deemed
significantly or critically undercapitalized). An institution is deemed
significantly undercapitalized if it has a leverage ratio of 

4
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less than 3%, a risk-based Tier 1 capital ratio of less than 3% or a risk-based
total capital ratio of less than 6%. An institution is deemed critically
undercapitalized if it has tangible equity equal to 2% or less of total assets.
A depository institution may be deemed to be in a capitalization category that
is lower than is indicated by its actual capital position if it receives a less
than satisfactory examination rating in any one of four categories.

         At December 31, 1996, Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, and Banco
Popular, FSB were well capitalized. At the same date Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) was adequately capitalized. At the end of February 1997, after
receiving an additional capital contribution of one million from Financial,
Banco Popular, N.A. (California) was well capitalized.

         FDICIA generally prohibits a depository institution from making any
capital distribution (including payment of a dividend) or paying any management
fee to its holding company if the depository institution would thereafter be
undercapitalized. Undercapitalized depository institutions are subject to
restrictions on borrowing from the Federal Reserve System. In addition,
undercapitalized depository institutions are subject to growth limitations and
are required to submit capital restoration plans. A depository institution's
holding company must guarantee the capital plan, up to an amount equal to the
lesser of five percent of the depository institution's assets at the time it
becomes undercapitalized or the amount of the capital deficiency when the
institution fails to comply with the plan. The federal banking agencies may not
accept a capital plan without determining, among other things, that the plan is
based on realistic assumptions and is likely to succeed in restoring the
depository institution's capital. If a depository institution fails to submit an
acceptable plan, it is treated as if it is significantly undercapitalized.
Significantly undercapitalized depository institutions may be subject to a
number of requirements and restrictions, including orders to sell sufficient
voting stock to become adequately capitalized, requirements to reduce total
assets, and cessation of receipt of deposits from correspondent banks.
Critically undercapitalized depository institutions are subject to appointment
of a receiver or conservator.

HOLDING COMPANY STRUCTURE

         Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) and Banco Popular, FSB are subject to restrictions under federal
law that limit the transfer of funds between them and the Corporation,
Financial, PIB and the Corporation's other non-banking subsidiaries, whether in
the form of loans, other extensions of credit, investments or asset purchases.
Such transfers by Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) or Banco Popular, FSB, respectively, to the Corporation,
Financial, or PIB, as the case may be, or to any one non-banking subsidiary,
are limited in amount to 10% of the transferring institution's capital stock
and surplus and, with respect to the Corporation and all of its non-banking
subsidiaries, to an aggregate of 20% of the transferring institution's capital
stock and surplus. Furthermore, such loans and extensions of credit are
required to be secured in specified amounts.

         Under the Federal Reserve Board policy, a bank holding company such as
the Corporation, is expected to act as a source of financial strength to each of
its subsidiary banks and to commit resources to support each subsidiary bank.
This support may be required at times when, absent such policy, the bank holding
company might not otherwise provide such support. In the event of a bank holding
company's bankruptcy, any commitment by the bank holding company to a federal
bank regulatory agency to maintain the capital of a subsidiary bank will be
assumed by the bankruptcy trustee and entitled to a priority of payment. In
addition, any capital loans by a bank holding company to any of its subsidiary
banks must be subordinated in right of payment to deposits and to certain other
indebtedness of such subsidiary bank. Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois,
Banco Popular, N.A. (California) and Banco Popular, FSB are currently the only
depository institution subsidiaries of the Corporation.

         Because the Corporation, PIB and Financial are holding companies, their
right to participate in the assets of any subsidiary upon the latter's
liquidation or reorganization will be subject to the prior claims of the
subsidiary's creditors (including depositors in the case of depository
institution subsidiaries) except to the extent that the Corporation, PIB or
Financial, as the case may be, may itself be a creditor with recognized claims
against the subsidiary.

         Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA), a depository
institution (which definition includes both banks and savings associations), the
deposits of which are insured by the FDIC, can be held liable for any loss
incurred by, or reasonably expected to be incurred by, the FDIC in connection
with (i) the default of a commonly controlled FDIC-insured depository
institution or (ii) any assistance provided by the FDIC to any commonly
controlled FDIC-insured depository institution "in danger of default". "Default"
is defined generally as the appointment of a conservator or a receiver and "in
danger of default" is defined generally as the existence of 

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certain conditions indicating that a default is likely to occur in the absence
of regulatory assistance. Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular,
N.A. (California) and Banco Popular, FSB are all currently FDIC-insured
depository institutions. In some circumstances (depending upon the amount of the
loss or anticipated loss suffered by the FDIC), cross-guarantee liability may
result in the ultimate failure or insolvency of one or more insured depository
institutions in a holding company structure. Any obligation or liability owned
by a subsidiary bank to its parent company is subordinated to the subsidiary
bank's cross-guarantee liability with respect to commonly controlled insured
depository institutions.

DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS

         The principal regular source of cash flow for the Corporation is
dividends from Banco Popular. Various statutory provisions limit the amount of
dividends Banco Popular can pay to the Corporation without regulatory approval.
As a member bank subject to the regulations of the Federal Reserve Board, Banco
Popular must obtain the approval of the Federal Reserve Board for any dividend
if the total of all dividends declared by the member bank in any calendar year
would exceed the total of its net profits, as defined by the Federal Reserve
Board, for that year, combined with its retained net profits for the preceding
two years. In addition, a member bank may not pay a dividend in an amount
greater than its undivided profits then on hand after deducting its losses and
bad debts. For this purpose, bad debts are generally defined to include the
principal amount of loans that are in arrears with respect to interest by six
months or more unless such loans are fully secured and in the process of
collection. Moreover, for purposes of this limitation, a member bank is not
permitted to add the balance in its allowance for loan losses account to its
undivided profits then on hand. However, it may net the sum of its bad debts as
so defined against the balance in its allowance for loan losses account and
deduct from undivided profits only bad debts as so defined in excess of that
account. At December 31, 1996, Banco Popular could have declared a dividend of
approximately $197.1 million without the approval of the Federal Reserve Board.
Illinois law contains similar limitations on the amount of dividends that Banco
Popular, Illinois can pay and the National Bank Act contains similar
limitations, on the amount of dividends Banco Popular, N.A. (California) can
pay. In addition, OTS regulations limit the amount of capital distributions
(whether by dividend or otherwise) that any savings association may make without
prior OTS approval, based upon the savings association's regulatory capital
levels. These limitations are applicable to Banco Popular, FSB. Also, in
connection with the acquisition by Banco Popular, FSB, from the RTC of four New
Jersey branches of the former Carteret Federal Savings Bank, the RTC provided
Banco Popular, FSB and Financial an interim financial assistance. The assistance
consisted of a 5-year term loan for $19.5 million, payable in the year 2000 in a
single lump sum installment and accruing interest, payable quarterly, at a
floating rate of 12.5 basis points over the rate payable on the 13-week U.S.
Treasury Bill. The loan is secured with the issued and outstanding shares of
common stock of Banco Popular, FSB. Pursuant to the term of such financing,
Banco Popular, FSB may not, among other things, declare or pay any dividends on
its outstanding capital stock (unless such dividends are used exclusively for
payment of principal of or interest on such promissory note) or make any
distributions of its assets until payment in full of such promissory note.

         The payment of dividends by Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois,
Banco Popular, N.A. (California) or Banco Popular, FSB may also be affected by
other regulatory requirements and policies, such as the maintenance of adequate
capital. If, in the opinion of the applicable regulatory authority, a depository
institution under its jurisdiction is engaged in, or is about to engage in, an
unsafe or unsound practice (that, depending on the financial condition of the
depository institution, could include the payment of dividends), such authority
may require, after notice and hearing, that such depository institution cease
and desist from such practice. The Federal Reserve Board has issued a policy
statement that provides that insured banks and bank holding companies should
generally pay dividends only out of current operating earnings. In addition, all
insured depository institutions are subject to the capital-based limitations
required by the FDICIA. See "FDICIA".

         See "Puerto Rico Regulation" for a description of certain restrictions
on Banco Popular's ability to pay dividends under Puerto Rico law.

FDIC INSURANCE ASSESSMENTS

         Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) and Banco Popular, FSB are subject to FDIC deposit insurance
assessments.

         Pursuant to FDICIA, the FDIC has adopted a risk-based assessment
system, under which the assessment rate for an insured 

6
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depository institution varies according to the level of risk incurred in its
activities. An institution's risk category is based partly upon whether the
institution is well capitalized, adequately capitalized or less than adequately
capitalized. Each insured depository institution is also assigned to one of the
following "supervisory subgroups": "A", "B" or "C". Group "A" institutions are
financially sound institutions with only a few minor weaknesses; Group "B"
institutions are institutions that demonstrate weaknesses that, if not
corrected, could result in significant deterioration; and Group "C" institutions
are institutions for which there is a substantial probability that the FDIC will
suffer a loss in connection with the institution unless effective action is
taken to correct the areas of weakness.

         The FDIC reduced the insurance premiums it charges on bank deposits
insured by the Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF") to the statutory minimum of $2,000.00
for "well capitalized" banks, effective January 1, 1996. On September 30, 1996,
the Deposit Insurance Funds Act of 1996 ("DIFA") was enacted and signed into
law. DIFA repealed the statutory minimum premium and, currently, premiums
related to deposits assessed by both the BIF and the Savings Association
Insurance Fund ("SAIF") are to be assessed at a rate between 0 cents and 27
cents per $100.00 of deposits. DIFA also provides for a special one-time
assessment imposed on deposits insured by the SAIF to recapitalize the SAIF to
bring it up to statutory required levels. The Corporation accrued for the
one-time assessment in the third quarter of 1996.

         DIFA also separates, effective January 1, 1997, the Financing
Corporation ("FICO") assessment to service the interest on its bond obligations
from the BIF and SAIF assessments. The amount assessed on individual
institutions by the FICO will be in addition to the amount, if any, paid for
deposit insurance according to the FDIC's risk-related assessment rate
schedules. FICO assessment rates for the first semiannual period of 1997 were
set at 1.30 basis points annually for BIF-assessable deposits and 6.48 basis
points annually for SAIF-assessable deposits. (These rates may be adjusted
quarterly to reflect changes in assessment bases for the BIF and the SAIF. By
law, the FICO rate on BIF-assessable deposits must be one-fifth the rate on
SAIF-assessable deposits until the insurance funds are merged or until January
1, 2000, whichever occurs first.) As of December 31, 1996, the Corporation had a
BIF deposit assessment base of approximately $10.1 billion and a SAIF deposit
assessment base of approximately $207 million.

BROKERED DEPOSITS

         FDIC regulations adopted under FDICIA govern the receipt of brokered
deposits. Under these regulations, a bank cannot accept, roll over or renew
brokered deposits (which term is defined also to include any deposit with an
interest rate more than 75 basis points above prevailing rates) unless (i) it is
well capitalized or (ii) it is adequately capitalized and receives a waiver from
the FDIC. A bank that is adequately capitalized may not pay an interest rate on
any deposits in excess of 75 basis points over certain prevailing market rates
specified by regulation. There are no such restrictions on a bank that is well
capitalized. The Corporation does not believe the brokered deposits regulation
has had or will have a material effect on the funding or liquidity of Banco
Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A. (California) or Banco
Popular, FSB.

CAPITAL ADEQUACY

         Information about the capital composition of the Corporation as of
December 31, 1996 and for the four previous years is presented in Table I
"Capital Adequacy Data", on page F-16 in the "Management Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" (MD&A) and is incorporated
herein by reference.

         The Federal Reserve Board has adopted risk-based capital guidelines for
bank holding companies. Under the guidelines the minimum ratio of qualifying
total capital to risk-weighted assets (including certain off-balance sheet
items, such as standby letters of credit) is 8%. At least half of the total
capital is to be comprised of common equity, retained earnings, minority
interest in unconsolidated subsidiaries, non-cumulative perpetual preferred
stock and a limited amount of cumulative perpetual preferred stock, less
goodwill, other disallowed intangibles and the disallowed portion of deferred
tax assets ("Tier 1 Capital"). The remainder may consist of a limited amount of
subordinated debt, other preferred stock, certain other instruments and a
limited amount of loan and lease loss reserves ("Tier 2 Capital").

         The Federal Reserve Board has adopted regulations with respect to
risk-based and leverage capital ratios that require most intangibles, including
core deposit intangibles, to be deducted from Tier 1 Capital. The regulations,
however, permit the inclusion of a limited amount of intangibles related to
originated and purchased mortgage servicing rights, purchased credit card
relationships and include a "grandfather" provision permitting the continued
inclusion of certain existing intangibles.

         In addition, the Federal Reserve Board has established minimum leverage
ratio (Tier 1 Capital to quarterly average assets) 

                                                                               7
<PAGE>   8
guidelines for bank holding companies and member banks. These guidelines provide
for a minimum leverage ratio of 3% for bank holding companies and member banks
that meet certain specified criteria, including that they have the highest
regulatory rating. All other bank holding companies and member banks are
required to maintain a leverage ratio of 3% plus an additional cushion of at
least 100 to 200 basis points. The guidelines also provide that banking
organizations experiencing internal growth or making acquisitions are expected
to maintain strong capital positions substantially above the minimum supervisory
levels, without significant reliance on intangible assets. Furthermore, the
guidelines indicate that the Federal Reserve Board will continue to consider a
"tangible Tier 1 leverage ratio" and other indicia of capital strength in
evaluating proposals for expansion or new activities. The tangible Tier 1
leverage ratio is the ratio of a banking organization's Tier 1 Capital less all
intangibles, to quarterly average assets less all intangibles. The Federal
Reserve Board has not advised the Corporation of any specific minimum leverage
ratio applicable to it.

         Banco Popular is subject to the risk-based and leverage capital
requirements adopted by the Federal Reserve Board. As of December 31, 1996,
Banco Popular had a tier 1 capital ratio of 11.31%, a total capital ratio of
12.57% and a leverage ratio of 6.65%.

         Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A. (California) and Banco
Popular, FSB are subject to similar capital requirements adopted by the FDIC,
the OCC and the OTS, respectively.

         Failure to meet capital guidelines could subject a bank to a variety of
enforcement remedies, including the termination of deposit insurance by the
FDIC, and to certain restrictions on its business. See "FDICIA".

         The Federal Reserve Board established a limitation on the amount of
certain deferred tax assets that may be included in Tier 1 capital for
risk-based and leverage capital purposes. Under this rules deferred tax assets
that can only be realized if an institution earns taxable income in the future
and are limited for regulatory capital purposes to the amount that the
institution expects to realize within one year of the quarter-end report date
based on its projection of taxable income or 10 percent of Tier 1 capital,
whichever is less. In addition, the Federal Reserve Board has decided to exclude
from regulatory capital the amount of net unrealized gains and losses on
securities available-for-sale, except the net unrealized losses of equity
securities with readily determinable fair values.

         Bank regulators have from time to time indicated their desire to raise
capital requirements applicable to banking organizations beyond current levels.
However, management is unable to predict whether and when higher capital
requirements would be imposed and, if so, at what levels and on what terms.

Interstate Banking and Other Recent Legislation

         The Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994
permits bank holding companies, with Federal Reserve approval, to acquire banks
located in states other than the holding company's home state without regard to
whether the transaction is prohibited under state law. In addition, commencing
June 1, 1997, national and state banks with different home states will be
permitted to merge across state lines, with approval of the appropriate federal
banking agency, unless the home state of a participating bank passes legislation
prior to May 31, 1997 expressly prohibiting interstate mergers. States may "opt
in" to permit insterstate branching by merger prior to June 1, 1997, and to
permit de novo insterstate branching. Once a bank has established branches in a
state through an interstate merger transaction, the bank may establish and
acquire additional branches at any location in the state where any bank involved
in the interstate merger transaction could have established or acquired branches
under applicable federal or state law. A bank that has established a branch in a
state through de novo branching may establish and acquire additional branches in
such state in the same manner and to the same extent as a bank having a branch
in such state as a result of an interstate merger. If a state opts out of
interstate branching within the specified time period, no bank in any other
state may establish a branch in the state which has opted out, whether through
an acquisition or de novo. A foreign bank, like Banco Popular, may branch
interstate by merger or de novo to the same extent as domestic banks in the
foreign bank's home state, which, in the case of Banco Popular, is New York.

         Various other legislation, inluding proposals to overhaul the bank
regulatory system, expand bank and bank holding company powers and limit the
investments that a depository institution may make with insured funds, is from
time to time introduced in Congress. It is impossible to predict whether or in
what form these proposals may be adopted in the future, and, if adopted, what
their effect will be on the Corporation or its subsidiaries.

8
<PAGE>   9
Puerto Rico Regulation

    General

         As a commercial bank organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico (the "Commonwealth"), Banco Popular is subject to the supervision,
examination and regulation of the Office of the Commissioner of Financial
Institutions of the Commonwealth (the "Office of the Commissioner"), pursuant to
the Puerto Rico Banking Act of 1933, as amended (the "Banking Law").

         Section 27 of the Banking Law requires that at least ten percent (10%)
of the yearly net income of Banco Popular be credited annually to a reserve
fund. This apportionment shall be done every year until the reserve fund shall
be equal to ten percent (10%) of the total deposits or the total paid-in
capital, whichever is greater. At the end of its most recent fiscal year, Banco
Popular had a fund established in compliance with these requirements.

         Section 27 of the Banking Law also provides that when the expenditures
of a bank are greater than the receipts, the excess of the former over the
latter shall be charged against the undistributed profits of the bank, and the
balance, if any, shall be charged against the reserve fund, as a reduction
thereof. If there is no reserve fund sufficient to cover such balance in whole
or in part, the outstanding amount shall be charged against the capital account
and no dividend shall be declared until said capital has been restored to its
original amount and the reserve fund to 20% of the original capital.

         Section 16 of the Banking Law requires every bank to maintain a legal
reserve which shall not be less than 20% of its demand liabilities, except
government deposits (federal, state and municipal) which are secured by actual
collateral. However, if a bank becomes a member of the Federal Reserve System,
the 20% legal reserve shall not be effective and the reserve requirements
demanded by the Federal Reserve System shall be applicable. Pursuant to an order
of the Board of Governors dated November 24, 1982, Banco Popular has been
exempted from such reserve requirements with respect to deposits payable in
Puerto Rico but is subject to Puerto Rico regulatory reserve requirements.

         Section 17 of the Banking Law permits Banco Popular to make loans to
any one person, firm, partnership or corporation, up to an aggregate amount of
fifteen percent (15%) of the paid-in capital and reserve fund of the Bank. As of
December 31, 1996, the legal lending limit for the Bank under this provision was
approximately $90 million. If such loans are secured by collateral worth at
least twenty-five percent (25%) more than the amount of the loan, the aggregate
maximum amount may reach one third of the paid-in capital of the Bank, plus its
reserve fund. There are no restrictions under Section 17 on the amount of loans
that are wholly secured by bonds, securities and other evidence of indebtedness
of the Government of the United States or the Commonwealth, or by current debt
bonds, not in default, of municipalities or instrumentalities of the
Commonwealth.

         Section 14 of the Banking Law authorizes Banco Popular to conduct
certain financial and related activities directly or through subsidiaries,
including lease financing of personal property, operating small loans companies
and mortgage loans activities. Banco Popular engages in these activities through
its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Popular Leasing & Rental, Inc., Popular Consumer
Services, Inc. and Popular Mortgage, Inc., respectively, which are organized and
operate solely in Puerto Rico.

         The Finance Board, which is a part of the Office of the Commissioner,
but also includes as its members the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of
Commerce, the Secretary of Consumer Affairs, the President of the Planning
Board, and the President of the Government Development Bank for Puerto Rico, has
the authority to regulate the maximum interest rates and finance charges that
may be charged on loans to individuals and unincorporated businesses in the
Commonwealth. The current regulations of the Finance Board provide that the
applicable interest rate on loans to individuals and unincorporated businesses
(including real estate development loans but excluding certain other personal
and commercial loans secured by mortgages on real estate properties) is to be
determined by free competition. The Finance Board also has authority to regulate
the maximum finance charges on retail installment sales contracts, which are
currently set at 21%, and for credit card purchases, which are currently set at
26%. There is no maximum rate set for installment sales contracts involving
motor vehicles, commercial, agricultural and industrial equipment, commercial
electric appliances and insurance premiums.

IBC Act

         Under the IBC Act, without the prior approval of the Office of the
Commissioner, PIB may not amend its articles of incorporation or issue
additional shares of capital stock or other securities convertible into
additional shares of capital stock unless such shares 

                                                                               9
<PAGE>   10
are issued directly to the shareholders of PIB previously identified in the
application to organize the international banking entity, in which case
notification to the Office of the Commissioner must be given within ten business
days following the date of the issue. Pursuant to the IBC Act, without the prior
approval of the Office of the Commissioner, PIB may not initiate the sale,
encumbrance, assignment, merger or other transfer of shares if by such
transaction a person or persons acting in concert could acquire direct or
indirect control of 10% or more of any class of the Company's stock. Such
authorization must be requested at least 30 days prior to the transaction.

         PIB must submit to the Office of the Commissioner a report of its
condition and results of operation on a monthly basis and its annual audited
financial statement as of the end of its fiscal year. Under the IBC Act, PIB may
not deal with "domestic persons" as such term is defined in the IBC Act. Also,
it may only engage in those activities authorized in the IBC Act, the
regulations adopted thereunder and its license.

         The IBC Act empowers the Office of the Commissioner to revoke or
suspend, after a hearing, the license of an international banking entity if,
among other things, it fails to comply with the IBC Act, regulations issued by
the Office of the Commissioner or the terms of its license or if the Office of
the Commissioner finds that the business of the international banking entity is
conducted in a manner not consistent with the public interest.

Employees

         At December 31, 1996, the Corporation employed 7,996 persons. None of
its employees are represented by a collective bargaining group.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

         As of December 31, 1996, Banco Popular owned (and wholly or partially
occupied) approximately 68 branch premises and other facilities throughout the
Commonwealth and branches premises in New York. In addition, as of such date,
Banco Popular leased properties for branch operations in approximately 113
locations in Puerto Rico, 16 locations in New York, 7 locations in the U.S.
Virgin Islands and one location in the British Virgin Islands. The Corporation's
management believes that each of its facilities is well-maintained and suitable
for its purpose. The principal properties owned by Banco Popular for banking
operations and other services are described below:

         Popular Center, the metropolitan area headquarters building, located at
209 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico, a 20 story office building.
Approximately 60% of the office space is leased to outside tenants.

         Cupey Center Complex, two buildings of three and two stories,
respectively, located at Cupey, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. The computer center,
operational and support services, and a recreational center for employees are
some of the main activities conducted at these facilities. The facilities are
fully occupied by Banco Popular's personnel.

         Stop 22 - Santurce building, a twelve story structure located in
Santurce, Puerto Rico. A branch, the accounting department, the human resources
division and the auditing department are the main activities conducted at this
facility.

         San Juan building, a twelve story structure located at Old San Juan,
Puerto Rico. Banco Popular occupies 50% of the basement, the entire ground
floor, the mezzanine and the 10th floor. The rest of the building is rented to
outside tenants.

         Mortgage Loan Center, a seven story building and a four story building,
located at 153 and 167 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico,
respectively, are fully occupied by the mortgage loans and mortgage servicing
departments.

         New York building, a nine story structure with two underground levels
located at 7 West 51st. Street, New York City, where approximately 92% of the
office space is used for banking operations. The remaining space is rented or
available for rent to outside tenants.

         At December 31, 1996 the Corporation owned a 23 story office structure
located at 268 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico. Banco Popular
occupies approximately 15% of the rented space and the rest of the building is
rented to outside tenants. At the same date, Banco Popular, N.A. (California)
owned a nine story structure located at 354 South Spring Street, Los Angeles,

10
<PAGE>   11
California in which office space is mostly rented to outside tenants. A full
service branch of Banco Popular, N.A. (California) operates in this facility.

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

         The Corporation and its subsidiaries are defendants in various lawsuits
arising in the ordinary course of business. Management believes, based on the
opinion of legal counsel, that the aggregate liabilities, if any, arising from
such actions would not have a material adverse effect on the financial position
of the Corporation.

ITEM 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

         Not Applicable.

                                     PART II

ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON STOCK AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

         The Corporation's common stock (the "Common Stock") is traded on the
National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation (NASDAQ) National
Market System under the symbol BPOP. Information concerning the range of high
and low sales prices for the Corporation's common shares for each quarterly
period during 1996 and the previous four years, as well as cash dividends
declared is contained under Table J, "Common Stock Performance", on page F-17
and under the caption "Stockholders' Equity" on page F-15 in the MD&A, and is
incorporated herein by reference.

         Information concerning legal or regulatory restrictions on the payment
of dividends by the Corporation and Banco Popular is contained under the caption
"Regulation and Supervision" in Item 1 herein.

         On April 26, 1996, the Corporation's Board of Directors authorized a
stock split of one share for each share outstandings effected in the form of a
dividend, on July 1, 1996. As a result of the split 33,000,590 shares were
issued, and $198 million were transferred from retained earnings to common
stock.

         As of February 28, 1997, the Corporation had 5,628 stockholders of
record of its Common Stock, not including beneficial owners whose shares are
held in record names of brokers or other nominees. The last sales price for the
Corporation's Common Stock on such date, as quoted on the NASDAQ was $36.00 per
share.

         The Corporation currently has outstanding $125 million subordinated
notes due December 15, 2005 with interest payable semi-annually at 6.75%. These
notes are unsecured subordinated obligations which are subordinated in right of
payment in full to all present and future senior indebtedness of the
Corporation. These notes do not provide for any sinking fund.

         The Puerto Rico Income Tax Act of 1954, as amended, generally imposes a
withholding tax on the amount of any dividends paid by corporations to
individuals, whether residents of Puerto Rico or not, trusts, estates and
special partnerships at a special 10% withholding tax rate. If the recipient is
a foreign corporation or partnership not engaged in trade or business within
Puerto Rico the rate of withholding is 10%.

         Prior to the first dividend distribution for the taxable year,
individuals who are residents of Puerto Rico may elect to be taxed on the
dividends at the regular rates, in which case the special 10% tax will not be
withheld from such year's distributions.

         United States citizens who are non-residents of Puerto Rico will not be
subject to Puerto Rico tax on dividends if said individual's gross income from
sources within Puerto Rico during the taxable year does not exceed $1,300 if
single, or $3,000 if married, and form AS 2732 of the Puerto Rico Treasury
Department "Withholding Tax Exemption Certificate for the Purpose of Section
1147", is filed with the withholding agent.

         U.S. income tax law permits a credit against U.S. income tax liability,
subject to certain limitations, for certain foreign income taxes paid or deemed
paid with respect to such dividends.

                                                                              11
<PAGE>   12
ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

         The information required by this item appears in Table B, "Selected
Financial Data" on pages F-4 and F-5 and the text under the caption "Earnings
Analysis", on page F-7 in the MD&A, and is incorporated herein by reference.

         The Corporation's ratio of earnings to fixed charges on a consolidated
basis for each of the last five years is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  Year ended December 31,
                                                  -----------------------

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges:

                                           1996     1995     1994     1993    1992
                                           ----     ----     ----     ----    ----
         <S>                                <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>     <C>
         Excluding Interest on Deposits     2.0      2.0      2.6      3.0     2.9
         Including Interest on Deposits     1.4      1.4      1.5      1.5     1.3

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and
  Preferred Stock Dividends:

         Excluding Interest on Deposits     2.0      2.0      2.5      3.0     2.9
         Including Interest on Deposits     1.4      1.4      1.5      1.5     1.3
</TABLE>

         For purposes of computing these consolidated ratios, earnings represent
income before income taxes, plus fixed charges. Fixed charges represent all
interest expense (ratios are presented both excluding and including interest on
deposits), the portion of net rental expense which is deemed representative of
the interest factor and the amortization of debt issuance expense.

         The Corporation's long-term senior debt and preferred stock on a
consolidated basis for each of the last five years ended December 31, is as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               Year ended December 31,
                                               -----------------------
                                                    
                                1996         1995         1994         1993         1992
                                ----         ----         ----         ----         ----
(In thousands)
<S>                         <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>       
Long-term obligations       $1,111,713   $  885,428   $  489,524   $  283,855   $  120,062
Non-Cumulative preferred
 stock of the Corporation      100,000      100,000      100,000          -0-          -0-
Cumulative perpetual
 preferred stock of
 Banco Popular                     -0-          -0-          -0-       11,000       11,000
</TABLE>

ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
         OF OPERATIONS

         The information required by this item appears on page F-2 through F-34
under the caption "MD&A" and is incorporated herein by reference.

         Table L, "Maturity Distribution of Earning Assets", on page F-20 in the
MD&A, has been prepared on the basis of contractual maturities. The Corporation
does not have a policy with respect to rolling over maturing loans, but rolls
over loans only on a case-by-case basis after review of such loans in accordance
with the Corporation's lending criteria.

12
<PAGE>   13
ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

         The information required by this item appears on pages F-35 through
F-75, and on page F-32 under the caption "Statistical Summary - Quarterly
Financial Data", in the MD&A and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
         FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

         Not Applicable.

                                    PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

         The information contained under the captions "Shares Beneficially Owned
by Directors, Nominees and Executive Officers of the Corporation", "Beneficial
Ownership Reporting Compliance", "Board of Directors and Committees" including
the "Nominees for Election as Directors" and "Executive Officers" of the
Corporation's definitive proxy statement filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on or about March 20, 1997 (the "Proxy Statement"), is incorporated
herein by reference.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

         The information under the caption "Executive Compensation Program", and
under the caption "BanPonce Corporation Performance Graph" of the Proxy
Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

         The information under the captions "Principal Stockholders", and under
"Shares Beneficially Owned by Directors, Nominees and Officers of the
Corporation" of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

         The information under the caption "Family Relationships" and "Other
relationships and transactions" of the Proxy Statement, is incorporated herein
by reference.

                                                                              13
<PAGE>   14
                                    PART IV

ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

A.       The following documents are part of this report and appear on the 
         pages indicated.

         (1)      Financial Statements:

<TABLE>
                  <S>                                                                            <C>
                  Report of Independent Auditors...............................................  F-35
                  Consolidated Statements of Condition as of December 31, 1996
                    and 1995...................................................................  F-36 
                  Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years in 
                    the three-year period ended December 31, 1996..............................  F-37
                  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years 
                    in the three-year period ended December 31, 1996...........................  F-38
                  Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity 
                    for each of the years in the three-year period ended 
                    December 31, 1996..........................................................  F-39
                  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...................................  F-40
</TABLE>

         (2)      Financial Statement Schedules: No schedules are presented
                  because the information is not applicable or is included in
                  the Consolidated Financial Statements described in A.1 above
                  or in the notes thereto.

         (3)      Exhibits

                  The exhibits listed on the Exhibits Index on page 17 of this
                  report are filed herewith or are incorporated herein by
                  reference.

B.       The Corporation filed one report on Form 8-K during the quarter ended
         December 31, 1996.

         Dated: October 9, 1996

         Items reported: Item 5 - Other Event

                         Item 7 - Financial Statements, Pro Forma Financial 
                                  Information and Exhibits

14
<PAGE>   15
SIGNATURES

         Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

                                    BANPONCE CORPORATION
                                         (Registrant)


                                    By: S\RICHARD L. CARRION
                                        --------------------
                                        Richard L. Carrion
                                        Chairman of the Board, President
                                        and Chief Executive Officer
Dated: 02-13-97                         (Principal Executive Officer)
      ----------

                                    By: S\JORGE A. JUNQUERA
                                        -------------------
                                        Jorge A. Junquera
                                        Senior Executive Vice President
Dated: 02-13-97                         (Principal Financial Officer)
      ----------

                                    By: S\AMILCAR L. JORDAN
                                        -------------------
                                        Amilcar L. Jordan
                                        Senior Vice President
Dated: 02-13-97                         (Principal Accounting Officer)
      ----------

         Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.


<TABLE>
<S>                                 <C>                                 <C>
S\RICHARD L. CARRION                Chairman of the Board,
- --------------------                President and Chief
Richard L. Carrion                  Executive Officer                   02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\ALFONSO F. BALLESTER              Vice Chairman of
- ----------------------              the Board                           02-13-97
Alfonso F. Ballester                                                    --------

S\ANTONIO LUIS FERRE                Vice Chairman of
- --------------------                the Board                           02-13-97
Antonio Luis Ferre                                                      --------

S\JUAN J. BERMUDEZ
- ------------------
Juan J. Bermudez                    Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\FRANCISCO J. CARRERAS
- -----------------------
Francisco J. Carreras               Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\DAVID H. CHAFEY, JR.
- ----------------------
David H. Chafey, Jr.                Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\LUIS E. DUBON, JR.
- --------------------
Luis E. Dubon, Jr.                  Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------
</TABLE>

                                                                              15
<PAGE>   16
<TABLE>
<S>                                 <C>                                 <C>
S\HECTOR R. GONZALEZ
- --------------------
Hector R. Gonzalez                  Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\JORGE A. JUNQUERA
- -------------------
Jorge A. Junquera                   Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\MANUEL MORALES, JR.
- ---------------------
Manuel Morales, Jr.                 Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\ALBERTO M. PARACCHINI
- -----------------------
Alberto M. Paracchini               Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

- -----------------------
Francisco Perez, Jr.                Director                            --------

S\FRANCISCO M. REXACH, JR.
- --------------------------
Francisco M. Rexach, Jr.            Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

- --------------------------
Jose E. Rossi                       Director                            --------

S\FELIX J. SERRALLES, JR.
- -------------------------
Felix J. Serralles, Jr.             Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\EMILIO JOSE VENEGAS
- ---------------------
Emilio Jose Venegas                 Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\JULIO E. VIZCARRONDO, JR.
- ---------------------------
Julio E. Vizcarrondo, Jr.           Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------
</TABLE>


16
<PAGE>   17
                                  EXHIBIT INDEX

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT NO.                        DESCRIPTION                                FOOTNOTE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 <S>         <C>                                                                 <C>
  3.1        Restated certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws of BanPonce
             Corporation                                                         (1)
  4.1        Form of certificate for common stock                                (1a)
  4.2        Certificates of Resolution of the Board of Directors of
             BanPonce Corporation dated August 11, 1988 creating a series
             of Preferred Stock of the Corporation designated as Series A
             Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock Purchase rights and
             the designation and amount of such series, the voting power
             preferences, and relative, participating, optional, or other
             special rights of the shares of such series, and the
             qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof. Rights
             Agreement dated as of August 11, 1988 by and between BanPonce
             Corporation and Manufacturers Hanover Trust Company regarding
             the issuance of certain Rights to the Corporation's
             shareholders.                                                       (2)
  4.3        Amendment to Rights Agreement dated as of December 11, 1990.        (3)
  4.4        Indenture, dated as of October 1, 1991, among BanPonce
             Financial Corp, BanPonce Corporation and Citibank, N.A.
             relating to the debt securities of BanPonce Financial Corp
             guaranteed by BanPonce Corporation.                                 (2a)
  4.5        Form of medium-term fixed rate note of BanPonce Financial Corp
             guaranteed by BanPonce Corporation.                                 (2b)
  4.6        Form of medium-term floating rate note of BanPonce Financial
             Corp guaranteed by BanPonce Corporation.                            (2c)
  4.7        Form of Certificate of 8.35% non-cumulative monthly Income
             Preferred Stock, 1994 Series A (Liquidation Preference $25.00
             per share).                                                         (4)
  4.8        Form S-3 filed in connection with the issuance of debt
             securities and preferred stock of BanPonce Corporation,
             Popular International Bank, Inc. and BanPonce Financial Corp
             and guaranteed by BanPonce Corporation in the aggregate amount
             of $1,000,000,000.                                                  (5)
  4.9        Subordinated indenture of BanPonce Corporation, dated November
             30, 1995, between BanPonce Corporation and the First National
             Bank of Chicago, as trustee, and related to 6 3/4%
             subordinated notes due December 15, 2005 in the aggregate
             amount of $125,000,000.                                             (6)
  4.10       Form of subordinated note of BanPonce Corporation.                  (7)
  4.11       Indenture, dated as of February 15, 1995, between BanPonce
             Corporation and the First National Bank of Chicago, as
             trustee.                                                            (15)
  4.12       Form of medium-term fixed rate note of BanPonce Corporation         (16)
  4.13       Form of medium-term floating rate note of BanPonce Corporation      (17)
 10.2        Form 8-A Filing filed in connection with the Series A
             Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock Purchase Rights.           (8)
 10.3        Senior Note Agreement dated as of January 15, 1992, between
             BanPonce Corporation and New York Life Insurance Company
             regarding the issuance by BanPonce Corporation of $30,000,000
             Senior Notes due January 15, 1997.                                  (9)
 10.8        Management Incentive Plan for certain Division Supervisors
             approved in January, 1987.                                          (10)
 10.8.1      BanPonce Corporation Senior Executive Long-Term Incentive Plan
             dated October 6, 1994.                                              (11)
 10.9        Stock Deferment Plan for outside directors effective on August
             15, 1996.
 10.10       Revolving loan agreement executed by and between Vehicle
             Equipment Leasing and BanPonce Corporation as of January 15,
             1992 in the aggregate principal amount of $30,000,000.              (12)
 10.11       $85,785,000 Banco Popular de Puerto Rico 1992 Grantor Trust 1
             Mortgage Pass - Through Certificates, Class A, offering
             memorandum dated June 25, 1992. Underwriting Agreement by and
             between Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Incorporated
             acting through its Puerto Rico branch office and Lehman
             Brothers Puerto Rico, Inc. and Banco Popular de Puerto Rico
             dated June 25, 1992; Insurance Agreement by and between
             Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation as Insurer,
             Banco Popular de Puerto Rico as Settlor, Banco Popular de
             Puerto Rico as Servicer, Banco Central as Collateral Agent and
             Banco Central as Trustee dated June 25, 1992.                       (13)
 10.12.2     Revolving Credit and competitive advance facility and credit
             agreement by and between BanPonce Corporation and BanPonce
             Financial Corp and Chemical Bank, as agent bank, for borrowing
             up to the principal amount of $500,000,000 dated as of
             November 3, 1995.                                                   (14)
 10.13       Banco Popular de Puerto Rico Bank's Note Program up to the
             aggregate amount of $600,000,000 executed on September 24,
             1996
 10.14       BanPonce Financial Corp, 6 3/4% Medium Term Notes, Series C,
             due August 9, 2001 in the aggregate principal amount of
             $75,000,000.
</TABLE>

                                                                              17
<PAGE>   18
<TABLE>
 <S>         <C>                                                                 
 12.0        Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
 13.1        Registrants Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended
             December 31, 1996
 21.1        Schedule of Subsidiaries
 23.1        Consent of Independent Auditors
 27.0        Financial Data Schedule (for SEC use only)
 99.1        Registrant's Proxy Statement for the April 25, 1997 Annual
             Meeting of Stockholders
</TABLE>

- ------------------------------
(1)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of Registration
                  Statement No.33-39028.

(1a)              Incorporated by reference to exhibit 4.1 of the Corporation's
                  Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
                  1990 (the "1990 Form 10-K").

(2)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 of Registration
                  Statement No. 33-39028.

(2a)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c) to Registration
                  Statement No. 33-41686 and to Exhibit 4(a) on Form 8-K filed
                  on February 28, 1995.

(2b)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 on Form 8-K filed on
                  October 8, 1991.

(2c)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 on Form 8-K filed on
                  October 8, 1991.

(3)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 of Registration
                  Statement No. 33-39028.

(4)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 of the 1994 Form
                  10-K.

(5)               Incorporated by reference to Registration Statement No.
                  33-61601.

(6)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(e) on Form 8-K filed on
                  December 13, 1995.

(7)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(p) on Form 8-K filed on
                  December 13, 1995.

(8)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit number 10.2 of
                  Registration Statement No. 33-00497.

(9)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 of the 1991 Form
                  10-K.

(10)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 of the 1991 Form
                  10-K.

(11)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8.1 of the 1994 Form
                  10-K.

(12)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 of the 1991 Form
                  10-K.

(13)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 of the 1992 Form
                  10-K.

(14)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12.2 of the 1994 Form
                  10-K.

(15)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c) on Form 8-K filed on
                  April 13, 1995.

(16)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) on Form 8-K filed on
                  April 13, 1995.

(17)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(b) on Form 8-K filed on
                  April 13, 1995.

<PAGE>   1



                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.9


                       STOCK DEFERMENT PLAN FOR DIRECTORS
            OF BANPONCE CORPORATION AND BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

                               EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.       THE PLAN.  Stock Deferment Plan would implement the purchase of
         BanPonce Shares by each outside director.  Each director who wishes to
         participate would sign an individual agreement with the Bank or
         BanPonce, as applicable.

2.       PURCHASE OF SHARES.  Each director may defer the $12,000 Annual 
         Retainer, plus the Additional Contribution of $0.25 per dollar, which 
         amounts shall be applied to the purchase of Shares by an agent.

3.       EFFECTIVE DATE.  August 15, 1996 (directors may defer unused portion
         of this year's retainer).

4.       DEFERRAL ELECTION.  After this year, the decision to defer any part of 
         the Annual Retainer must be made prior to April 30 (or the 
         Stockholders' Meeting), and the annual election may not be revoked
         during the Plan Year.

5.       VOTING RIGHTS; DIVIDENDS.  Directors may vote and receive dividends 
         payable on the Shares in the Plan.  (The dividends may be reinvested 
         under the Dividend Reinvestment Plan.)

6.       TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS.  The directors may not sell, transfer or
         pledge the Shares while they remain on the Board.  The Shares will be
         held in custody by Banco Popular until the director is no longer on
         the Board, and thereafter transfer restrictions will not apply.

7.       FORFEITURE.  If a director is removed from office for cause by
         appropriate corporate action or under authority of law, he or she will
         forfeit all of the Shares acquired with the Additional Contribution,
         and must sell the Retainer Shares to BanPonce at the lower of cost or
         market value.

8.       TAX TREATMENT:  The Plan is intended to allow directors to defer
         recognition of income on amounts applied for the purchase of Shares,
         until the director receives the Shares without the transfer
         restrictions.  The transfer restrictions (at paragraph 6) and the 
         forfeiture provisions (at paragraph 7) are intended to strengthen the 
         argument for deferral of income recognition.

                                                                             -1-
<PAGE>   2

                                                            EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)


                                   AGREEMENT

                             (STOCK DEFERMENT PLAN)


     AGREEMENT made as of August 15, 1996 by and between BANCO POPULAR DE
PUERTO RICO, a banking corporation organized under the laws of the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico (hereafter the "Corporation"), and JUAN A. ALBORS, a director of
the Corporation (hereinafter the "Director").  

                                  WITNESSETH

         WHEREAS, the Director has served as a director of the Corporation and
the Corporation has derived substantial benefits as a result of his work;

         WHEREAS, the Corporation has adopted a compensation program for its
outside directors pursuant to which, among other things, its outside directors
will be paid an annual retainer on a quarterly basis (the "Annual Retainer"),
and the directors have the option on a yearly basis to elect to defer all or
part of the Annual Retainer for the purchase of shares of common stock of
BanPonce Corporation ("Shares");

         WHEREAS, the Corporation has established the "Stock Deferment Plan"
(the "Plan") in order to implement the stock deferment option under its
compensation program;

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants
herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereby
agree as follows:


                                   ARTICLE I
                           PARTICIPATION IN THE PLAN

         1.1     The Director must execute and deliver an election statement (a
"Statement") on a yearly basis to the Corporation, substantially in the form of
Exhibit A hereto or in such form acceptable to the Corporation, pursuant to
which the Director shall designate the amount of the Annual Retainer which
shall be deferred for the purchase of Shares.  Said Statement must be received
by the Corporation no later than April 15 of each year (the "Election
Deadline") and shall remain in effect until April 30 of the following year
(each such period, a "Plan Year"); provided, however, that for the current Plan
Year 1996-97, the Statement must be received by the Corporation on or prior to
August 15, 1996, and will be applicable for the portion of the Annual Retainer
which as of such date shall not have been paid or disbursed in favor of the
Director.

                                                                             -2-
<PAGE>   3



                                                            EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)

         1.2     The Statement made for any Plan Year may not revoked during
such Plan Year, and shall also govern the deferral of all or any designated
portion of the Annual Retainer during the following Plan Year unless the
Director delivers a Statement to the Corporation before the Election Deadline
for the next Plan Year.

                                   ARTICLE II
         PURCHASE OF COMMON SHARES AND CONDITIONS AFFECTING SUCH SHARES

         2.1     On a quarterly basis the Corporation will apply the portion of
the Annual Retainer that the Director has elected to have deferred under the
Plan (the "Deferred Contribution") towards the purchase of  Shares on behalf of
the Director (the "Retainer Shares").

         2.2     On a quarterly basis the Corporation will also contribute and
apply an additional amount equal to 25 cents for every dollar of the Deferred
Contribution (the "Additional Contribution"), which shall also be applied
towards the purchase of Shares on behalf of the Director (the "Additional
Shares").

         2.3     (a)      The Shares will be purchased in the open market or in
negotiated transactions by an agent designated by the Corporation for all of
the directors participating in the Plan (the "Agent").  Purchase of Shares in
the open market by the Agent may be made in the over-the-counter market or on
any securities exchange where the Shares may be traded.

                 (b)      Purchases of Shares on the open market or in
negotiated transactions shall be made by the Agent during the period from and
including the fifteenth day of the month until the last day of the month in
which the funds are made available to the Agent in accordance with Sections 2.1
and 2.2 hereto (the "Investment Period"), subject to any applicable
requirements of federal or state securities laws affecting the timing and
manner of purchases of Shares under the Plan.

                 (c)      Subject to any limitations imposed by federal or
state securities laws, the Agent will have full discretion as to all matters
relating to open market purchases during each Investment Period, including the
number of Shares, if any, to be purchased on any given day or at any time of
day, the price paid for such Shares, the markets on which such Shares are to be
purchased (including on any securities exchange, in the over-the-counter market
or in negotiated transactions) and the persons (including other brokers and
dealers) from or through whom such purchases are made.

                 (d)      The Director's account under the Plan will be
credited on a quarterly basis with the number of Shares equal to the amount of
the Deferred Contribution and Additional Contribution divided by the purchase
price per Share.  The "purchase price per Share" wi ll be the weighted average
paid for all Shares purchased for all directors under the Plan during such
Investment Period.





                                                                             -3-
<PAGE>   4

                                                            EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)

         2.4     All certificates representing Shares purchased on behalf of 
the Director pursuant to the Plan (the "Certificates") shall be held in custody 
by the Corporation on behalf of the Director and will not be delivered to the 
Director until his participation in the Plan terminates as described in 
Section 3.1 hereto.

         2.5     The Director will be entitled to receive all dividends 
payable with respect to Shares held on his behalf under the Plan, and
will be entitled to all voting rights associated with Shares held on his behalf
under the Plan.

         2.6     The Director understands and agrees that until his
participation in the Plan terminates as described in Section 3.1 hereto and the
Certificates are delivered to the Director, the Director will not sell,
transfer, assign, pledge or in any way encumber Shares held on his behalf under
the Plan.

         2.7     The Corporation will prepare and deliver to the Director 
periodic statements showing the number of Shares being held on the Director's 
behalf under the Plan.  Such statements will separately itemize (i) the number 
of Retainer Shares purchased during the preceding reporting period and the 
aggregate number of Retainer Shares purchased to date and (ii) the number of 
Additional Shares purchased during the preceding reporting period and the 
aggregate number of Additional Shares purchased to date.


                                  ARTICLE III
                    TERMINATION OF PARTICIPATION IN THE PLAN

         3.1      The Director's participation in the Plan pursuant to this 
Agreement will terminate when his membership in the Board of Directors of the 
Corporation (and/or of BanPonce Corporation) terminates (for reasons other
than removal from office for cause by appropriate corporate action or under
authority of law).  At such time, all of the Certificates representing Shares
held in custody by the Corporation on behalf of the Director under the Plan
will be delivered to the Director; provided, however, that Certificates
representing Shares that have been held under the Plan for less than six months
from their date of purchase will be delivered to the Director by the
Corporation once the six-month holding period has been met.

         3.2      It is agreed by the parties that once the Director's 
participation in the Plan terminates and the delivery of the Certificates to
the Director has taken place, all restrictions under the Plandescribed in
Section 2.6 hereto above relating to the non-transferability of such Shares
will terminate.





                                                                             -4-
<PAGE>   5

                                                            EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)


                                   ARTICLE IV
                        PENALTIES FOR REMOVAL FOR CAUSE

         4.1      In the event that the Director is removed from office for 
cause by appropriate corporate action or under authority of law:

         (a)      all Additional Shares held on behalf of the Director under 
         the Plan will be forfeited to BanPonce Corporation at no cost; and

         (b)      the Director must sell to BanPonce Corporation all of the 
         Retainer Shares purchased in his name under the Plan at the lower of:

                  (i)     the purchase price per Share at the time each such 
                  Retainer Share was purchased on behalf of the Director, and 
                  (ii) the Average Market Price (as defined below) of the 
                  Shares as of the date the Director was removed from office 
                  for cause.  The "Average Market Price" shall be equal to the 
                  average of the last reported sales price of Shares on the
                  NASDAQ National Market System (or the principal exchange on 
                  which Shares may be listed) during the last twenty (20) 
                  reported trading days preceding the date of such removal from 
                  office.


         4.2      In the event that BanPonce Corporation is not permitted, 
pursuant to applicable law, contract provisions or otherwise, to purchase the 
Retainer Shares on the date of removal from office as provided in Section 
4.1(b) above, BanPonce Corporation shall be entitled to purchase the Retainer 
Shares within thirty (30) days after the lapse of such restrictions, in which 
case the "Average Market Price" shall be based upon the last twenty (20) 
reported trading days immediately preceding the date of such purchase.





                                                                             -5-
<PAGE>   6

                                                            EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)

                                   ARTICLE V
                                 MISCELLANEOUS

         5.1      This Agreement shall be binding upon the heirs, 
administrators, executors and the successors and assigns of the Director, and
the successors and assigns of the Corporation.  This Agreement shall not be
modified or amended except by an instrument in writing signed by both parties.

         5.2      Nothing contained in this Agreement and no action taken 
pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement shall create or be construed to 
create a trust of any kind, or impose any fiduciary duties on the Corporation 
in favor of the Director, his designated beneficiary(ies) or any other person.

         5.3      All costs and expenses incurred in the administration of the 
Plan shall be paid by the Corporation.

         5.4      If any provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid or 
unenforceable, such provision shall be deemed deleted from this Agreement and 
replaced by a valid and enforceable provision which, so far as possible, 
achieves the same economic and other benefits for the parties as the severed 
provision was intended to achieve, and the remaining provisions of the 
Agreement shall continue in full force and effect.

         5.5      This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and 
governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, AND INTENDING TO BE LEGALLY BOUND, the parties hereto
have each caused this Agreement to be executed in San Juan, Puerto Rico as of
the date first above written.

     BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO                                   DIRECTOR


By:  
   -----------------------------------            ------------------------------
Name:
Title:
      




                                                                             -6-
<PAGE>   7


                                                             EXHIBIT 10.9(CONT.)


                               ELECTION STATEMENT

         This election statement is delivered pursuant to, is made a part of 
and is subject to all of the terms and conditions of the Agreement by and 
between the Corporation and the undersigned dated as of August 15, 1996 related 
to the Stock Deferment Plan (the "Agreement").

         The undersigned hereby elects to defer the amount of $_________ from 
his annual retainer, which amount shall be used to purchase on the 
undersigned's behalf shares of common stock of BanPonce Corporation subject to 
the terms and conditions of the Agreement.

         In San Juan, Puerto Rico this __ day of ______________, 199_.




                                                --------------------------------
                                                                DIRECTOR


Accepted:
BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO


- ----------------------------
Name:
Title:





                                                                             -7-
<PAGE>   8



                                                            EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)


                                   AGREEMENT

                             (STOCK DEFERMENT PLAN)


     AGREEMENT made as of August 15, 1996 by and between BANPONCE CORPORATION,
a banking corporation organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto
Rico (hereafter the "Corporation"), and FRANCISCO PEREZ, JR., a director of the
Corporation (hereinafter the "Director").

                                   WITNESSETH

         WHEREAS, the Director has served as a director of the Corporation and 
the Corporation has derived substantial benefits as a result of his work;

         WHEREAS, the Corporation has adopted a compensation program for its 
outside directors pursuant to which, among other things, its outside directors 
will be paid an annual retainer on a quarterly basis (the "Annual Retainer"), 
and the directors have the option on a yearly basis to elect to defer all or 
part of the Annual Retainer for the purchase of shares of common stock of 
BanPonce Corporation ("Shares");

         WHEREAS, the Corporation has established the "Stock Deferment Plan" 
(the "Plan") in order to implement the stock deferment option under its 
compensation program;

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants 
herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereby 
agree as follows:


                                   ARTICLE I
                           PARTICIPATION IN THE PLAN

         1.1      The Director must execute and deliver an election statement 
(a "Statement") on a yearly basis to the Corporation, substantially in the 
form of Exhibit A hereto or in such form acceptable to the Corporation, 
pursuant to which the Director shall designate the amount of the Annual
Retainer which shall be deferred for the purchase of Shares.  Said Statement
must be received by the Corporation no later than April 15 of each year (the
"Election Deadline") and shall remain in effect until April 30 of the following
year (each such period, a "Plan Year"); provided, however, that for the current
Plan Year 1996-97, the Statement must be received by the Corporation on or
prior to August 15, 1996, and will be applicable for the portion of the Annual
Retainer which as of such date shall not have been paid or disbursed in favor
of the Director.

         1.2      The Statement made for any Plan Year may not revoked during 
such Plan Year, and shall also govern the deferral of all or any designated 
portion of the Annual Retainer during the following Plan Year unless
the Director delivers a Statement to the Corporation before the Election
Deadline for the next Plan Year.





                                                                             -8-
<PAGE>   9


                                                         EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)

                                   ARTICLE II
         PURCHASE OF COMMON SHARES AND CONDITIONS AFFECTING SUCH SHARES

         2.1      On a quarterly basis the Corporation will apply the portion 
of the Annual Retainer that the Director has elected to have deferred under the 
Plan (the "Deferred Contribution") towards the purchase of  Shares on
behalf of the Director (the "Retainer Shares").

         2.2      On a quarterly basis the Corporation will also contribute and 
apply an additional amount equal to 25 cents for every dollar of the Deferred 
Contribution (the "Additional Contribution"), which shall also be applied 
towards the purchase of Shares on behalf of the Director (the "Additional 
Shares").

         2.3      (a)     The Shares will be purchased in the open market or 
in negotiated transactions by an agent designated by the Corporation for all 
of the directors participating in the Plan (the "Agent").  Purchase of Shares 
in the open market by the Agent may be made in the over-the-counter market or 
on any securities exchange where the Shares may be traded.

                  (b)     Purchases of Shares on the open market or in 
negotiated transactions shall be made by the Agent during the period from and
including the fifteenth day of the month until the last day of the month in
which the funds are made available to the Agent in accordance with Sections 2.1
and 2.2 hereto (the "Investment Period"), subject to any applicable
requirements of federal or state securities laws affecting the timing and
manner of purchases of Shares under the Plan.

                  (c)     Subject to any limitations imposed by federal or 
state securities laws, the Agent will have full discretion as to all matters
relating to open market purchases during each Investment Period, including the
number of Shares, if any, to be purchased on any given day or at any time of
day, the price paid for such Shares, the markets on which such Shares are to be
purchased (including on any securities exchange, in the over-the-counter market
or in negotiated transactions) and the persons (including other brokers and
dealers) from or through whom such purchases are made.

                  (d)     The Director's account under the Plan will be 
credited on a quarterly basis with the number of Shares equal to the amount of
the Deferred Contribution and Additional Contribution divided by the purchase
price per Share.  The "purchase price per Share" will be the weighted average
paid for all Shares purchased for all directors under the Plan during such
Investment Period.

         2.4      All certificates representing Shares purchased on behalf of 
the Director pursuant to the Plan (the "Certificates") shall be held in custody
by Banco Popular de Puerto Rico on behalf of the Director and will not be 
delivered to the Director until his participation in the Plan terminates as 
described in Section 3.1 hereto.

         2.5      The Director will be entitled to receive all dividends
payable with respect to Shares held on his behalf under the Plan, and will be 
entitled to all voting rights associated with Shares held on his behalf
under the Plan.





                                                                             -9-
<PAGE>   10


                                                            EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)

         2.6      The Director understands and agrees that until his
participation in the Plan terminates as described in Section 3.1 hereto and the
Certificates are delivered to the Director, the Director will not sell,
transfer, assign, pledge or in any way encumber Shares held on his behalf under
the Plan.

         2.7      The Corporation will prepare and deliver to the Director 
periodic statements showing the number of Shares being held on the Director's 
behalf under the Plan.  Such statements will separately itemize (i) the number 
of Retainer Shares purchased during the preceding reporting period and the 
aggregate number of Retainer Shares purchased to date and (ii) the number of 
Additional Shares purchased during the preceding reporting period and the 
aggregate number of Additional Shares purchased to date.


                                  ARTICLE III
                    TERMINATION OF PARTICIPATION IN THE PLAN

         3.1      The Director's participation in the Plan pursuant to this 
Agreement will terminate when his membership in the Board of Directors of the 
Corporation terminates (for reasons other than removal from office for cause 
by appropriate corporate action or under authority of law).  At such time, all 
of the Certificates representing Shares held in custody by Banco Popular 
de Puerto Rico on behalf of the Director under the Plan will be delivered to 
the Director; provided, however, that Certificates representing Shares that 
have been held under the Plan for less than six months from their date of 
purchase will be delivered to the Director once the six-month holding period 
has been met.

         3.2      It is agreed by the parties that once the Director's
participation in the Plan terminates and the delivery of the Certificates to
the Director has taken place, all restrictions under the Plan described in
Section 2.6 hereto above relating to the non-transferability of such Shares
will terminate.


                                   ARTICLE IV
                        PENALTIES FOR REMOVAL FOR CAUSE

         4.1      In the event that the Director is removed from office for 
cause by appropriate corporate action or under authority of law:

         (a)      all Additional Shares held on behalf of the Director under 
         the Plan will be forfeited to the Corporation at no cost; and

         (b)      the Director must sell to the Corporation all of the Retainer 
         Shares purchased in his name under the Plan at the lower of:

                  (i)     the purchase price per Share at the time each such 
                  Retainer Share was purchased on behalf of the Director, and





                                                                            -10-
<PAGE>   11


                                                            EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)

                  (ii) the Average Market Price (as defined below) of the 
                  Shares as of the date the Director was removed from office 
                  for cause.  The "Average Market Price" shall be equal to the 
                  average of the last reported sales price of Shares on the 
                  NASDAQ National Market System (or the principal exchange on 
                  which Shares may be listed) during the last twenty (20)
                  reported trading days preceding the date of such removal from
                  office.

         4.2      In the event that the Corporation is not permitted, pursuant 
to applicable law, contract provisions or otherwise, to purchase the Retainer 
Shares on the date of removal from office as provided in Section 4.1(b) above, 
the Corporation shall be entitled to purchase the Retainer Shares within 
thirty (30) days after the lapse of such restrictions, in which case the 
"Average Market Price" shall be based upon the last twenty (20) reported
trading days immediately preceding the date of such purchase.

                                   ARTICLE V
                                 MISCELLANEOUS

         5.1      This Agreement shall be binding upon the heirs, 
administrators, executors and the successors and assigns of the Director, and
the successors and assigns of the Corporation.  This Agreement shall not be
modified or Amended except by an instrument in writing signed by both parties.

         5.2      Nothing contained in this Agreement and no action taken 
pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement shall create or be construed to 
create a trust of any kind, or impose any fiduciary duties on the Corporation 
in favor of the Director, his designated beneficiary(ies) or any other person.

         5.3      All costs and expenses incurred in the administration of the 
Plan shall be paid by the Corporation.

         5.4      If any provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid or 
unenforceable, such provision shall be deemed deleted from this Agreement and 
replaced by a valid and enforceable provision which, so far as possible, 
achieves the same economic and other benefits for the parties as the severed 
provision was intended to achieve, and the remaining provisions of the 
Agreement shall continue in full force and effect.

         5.5      This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and 
governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, AND INTENDING TO BE LEGALLY BOUND, the parties hereto
have each caused this Agreement to be executed in San Juan, Puerto Rico as of
the date first above written.

     BANPONCE CORPORATION                                   DIRECTOR

By:
    --------------------------------           ---------------------------------
Name:
Title:
      







                                                                            -11-
<PAGE>   12
                                                            EXHIBIT 10.9 (CONT.)



                               ELECTION STATEMENT

         This election statement is delivered pursuant to, is made a part of 
and is subject to all of the terms and conditions of the Agreement by and 
between the Corporation and the undersigned dated as of August 15, 1996 related 
to the Stock Deferment Plan (the "Agreement").

         The undersigned hereby elects to defer the amount of $_________ from 
his annual retainer, which amount shall be used to purchase on the 
undersigned's behalf shares of common stock of BanPonce Corporation subject
to the terms and conditions of the Agreement.

         In San Juan, Puerto Rico this __ day of ______________, 199_.




                                           --------------------------------
                                                             DIRECTOR


Accepted:
BANPONCE CORPORATION


- --------------------
Name:
Title:








                                                                            -12-

<PAGE>   1

OFFERING CIRCULAR                                                  EXHIBIT 10.13

                        BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO
                                $600,000,000
                                 BANK NOTES
               DUE FROM 7 DAYS TO 15 YEARS FROM DATE OF ISSUE

         Banco Popular de Puerto Rico (the "Bank") may from time to time issue
bank notes with maturities ranging from 7 days to one year from their
respective dates of issue (the "Short-Term Bank Notes") and bank notes with
maturities ranging from greater than one year to 15 years from their respective
dates of issue (the "Medium-Term Bank Notes," and together with the Short-Term
Bank Notes, the "Notes").  The aggregate principal amount of Notes will not
exceed an aggregate maximum principal amount of $600,000,000 outstanding at any
one time.  Each Note will mature on such date (the "Stated Maturity Date") as
selected by the initial purchaser and agreed to by the Bank.  The Notes may be
subject to redemption at the option of the Bank or repayment at the option of
the holder thereof, in each case, in whole or in part, prior to their Stated
Maturity Date, as set forth therein.  See "Description of Notes."  The Notes
will be issued only in fully registered form in minimum denominations of
$250,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.
         The Notes will be issued only in book-entry form and will be
represented by one or more global Notes (each, a "Global Note" and
collectively, the "Global Notes"), registered in the name of The Depository
Trust Company, as depositary (the "Depositary," which term includes any
successor thereof), or a nominee thereof.  Ownership of beneficial interests in
a Global Note will only be evidenced by, and transfers thereof will be effected
only through, records maintained by the Depositary and its participants.
Except as described under "Description of Notes -- Book-Entry Registration,"
beneficial owners of Notes issued in book-entry form will not be entitled to
receive physical delivery of Notes in definitive form.
         Notes will be issued as either Fixed Rate Notes or Floating Rate Notes
as described herein.  See "Description of Notes."  Unless otherwise specified
in the applicable Note, interest on Fixed Rate Notes having maturities of
greater than one year will be payable semi-annually on June 15 and December 15
of each year.  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, interest on
Fixed Rate Notes with maturities of one year or less will be payable only at
maturity or earlier redemption or repayment.  Interest on Floating Rate Notes
will be payable on the dates described under "Description of Notes -- Floating
Rate Notes."
         Whenever this Offering Circular indicates that information may be set
forth in a Note, such information may also be set forth in a Pricing Supplement
to this Offering Circular.

EACH NOTE ISSUED BY THE BANK WILL BE AN OBLIGATION SOLELY OF THE BANK AND WILL
NOT BE AN OBLIGATION OF, OR OTHERWISE GUARANTEED BY, ANY OTHER BANK OR BANPONCE
CORPORATION.  THE NOTES DO NOT EVIDENCE DEPOSITS OF THE BANK AND ARE NOT
INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT
AGENCY.  THE OBLIGATIONS EVIDENCED BY THE NOTES RANK PARI PASSU WITH ALL OTHER
SENIOR UNSECURED INDEBTEDNESS OF THE BANK, EXCEPT DEPOSIT LIABILITIES AND OTHER
OBLIGATIONS THAT ARE SUBJECT TO ANY PRIORITIES OR PREFERENCES.  IN A
LIQUIDATION OR OTHER RESOLUTION OF THE BANK, THE NOTES WOULD BE TREATED
DIFFERENTLY FROM, AND HOLDERS OF THE NOTES COULD RECEIVE, IF ANYTHING,
SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN HOLDERS OF, DEPOSIT LIABILITIES OF THE BANK.  SEE
"DESCRIPTION OF NOTES" AND "SUPERVISION, REGULATION AND OTHER MATTERS."

THE NOTES HAVE NOT BEEN, AND ARE NOT REQUIRED TO BE, REGISTERED UNDER THE
SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED ("1933 ACT") OR THE PUERTO RICO UNIFORM
SECURITIES ACT. THE NOTES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION OR THE
COMMISSIONER OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF PUERTO RICO NOR
HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR THE COMMISSIONER OF FINANCIAL
INSTITUTIONS OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF PUERTO RICO PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR
ADEQUACY OF THIS OFFERING CIRCULAR.  ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A
CRIMINAL OFFENSE.

THE NOTES WILL BE OFFERED ONLY TO INSTITUTIONAL INVESTORS THAT ARE "ACCREDITED
INVESTORS" WITHIN THE MEANING OF RULE 501 UNDER THE 1933 ACT.  EACH OWNER OF A
BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN A GLOBAL NOTE IS REQUIRED TO HOLD A BENEFICIAL INTEREST
IN $250,000 PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OR ANY INTEGRAL MULTIPLE OF $1,000 IN EXCESS
THEREOF OF SUCH GLOBAL NOTE AT ALL TIMES. SEE "NOTICE TO INVESTORS."


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
============================================================================================================================
                                                                      Agents' Discounts and             Proceeds to the
                                       Price to Public(1)(4)          Commissions(1)(2)(4)               Bank(1)(3)(4)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 <S>                                       <C>                         <C>                         <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Per Note  . . . . . . . . . . .               100%                        .05% - .70%                  99.95% - 99.30%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . .           $600,000,000                $300,000-$4,200,000         $599,700,000-$595,800,000
============================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
(1)      The agents listed below (each, an "Agent" and collectively, the
"Agents") will purchase the Notes as principal from the Bank for resale to
investors and other purchasers at varying prices relating to prevailing market
prices at the time of resale or, if so specified in the applicable Pricing
Supplement, for resale at a fixed public offering price.  Unless otherwise
specified in the applicable Pricing Supplement, any Note sold to an Agent as
principal will be purchased by such Agent at a price equal to 100% of the
principal amount thereof less a percentage of the principal amount which shall
be agreed upon by the Agent and the Bank.  Such Agent may also utilize its
reasonable efforts on an agency basis to solicit offers to purchase the Notes
at 100% of the principal amount thereof, unless otherwise specified in the
applicable Pricing Supplement.  See "Plan of Distribution."  The Bank will pay
a commission to each Agent ranging from .05% to .70% of the principal amount of
each Note, depending on stated maturity, sold by such Agent.  The Bank also has
reserved the right to sell Notes directly to investors on its own behalf.  No
commission will be payable nor will a discount be allowed on any direct sales
by the Bank.  
(2)      The Bank has agreed to indemnify the Agents against, and
to provide contribution with respect to, certain liabilities, including
liabilities under the federal securities laws.  See "Plan of Distribution." 
(3)      Before deducting expenses payable by the Bank.  
(4)      Because the maximum amount of Notes is stated as an outstanding
amount rather than an issuance amount, the actual amount of Notes issued
may exceed $600,000,000 and, therefore, the price to the public, the agents'
discounts and commissions and the proceeds to the Bank may exceed the dollar
amounts for each stated above. The percentages per Note would remain as stated
above, however, unless otherwise agreed to by the Bank and the Agents.  

                                  --------------

MERRILL LYNCH & CO.           BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.           CS FIRST BOSTON

                                  --------------
          The date of this Offering Circular is September 24, 1996.
<PAGE>   2

IN CONNECTION WITH THE OFFERING OF NOTES UNDERWRITTEN BY ONE OR MORE AGENTS AS
PRINCIPAL, SUCH AGENTS MAY OVER-ALLOT OR EFFECT TRANSACTIONS WHICH STABILIZE OR
MAINTAIN THE MARKET PRICE OF THE NOTES OFFERED THEREBY AT A LEVEL ABOVE THAT
WHICH MIGHT OTHERWISE PREVAIL IN THE OPEN MARKET. SUCH STABILIZING, IF
COMMENCED, MAY BE DISCONTINUED AT ANY TIME.

UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED IN THE APPLICABLE PRICING SUPPLEMENT, THE NOTES WILL
NOT BE LISTED ON ANY SECURITIES EXCHANGE AND THERE CAN BE NO ASSURANCE THAT THE
NOTES OFFERED BY THIS OFFERING CIRCULAR WILL BE SOLD OR THAT THERE WILL BE A
SECONDARY MARKET FOR THE NOTES.

IN MAKING AN INVESTMENT DECISION, INVESTORS MUST RELY ON THEIR OWN EXAMINATION
OF THE BANK AND THE TERMS OF THE OFFERING, INCLUDING THE MERITS AND RISKS
INVOLVED.  THE NOTES HAVE NOT BEEN RECOMMENDED BY ANY FEDERAL OR STATE
SECURITIES COMMISSION OR REGULATORY AUTHORITY.  FURTHERMORE, THE FOREGOING
AUTHORITIES HAVE NOT CONFIRMED THE ACCURACY OR DETERMINED THE ADEQUACY OF THIS
DOCUMENT.  ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.


               INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE

         The Bank submits quarterly to its primary federal regulator certain
reports called "Consolidated Reports of Condition and Income" (the "Call
Reports") on Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council ("FFIEC") Form
031.  Each Call Report consists of a Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Changes
in Equity Capital and other supporting schedules as of the end of the period to
which such Call Report relates.  The Call Reports are prepared in accordance
with regulatory instructions issued by the FFIEC.  Because of the special
supervisory, regulatory and economic policy needs served by the Call Reports,
those regulatory instructions do not in all cases follow generally accepted
accounting principles, including the opinions and statements of the Accounting
Principles Board or the Financial Accounting Standards Board.  While the Call
Reports are supervisory and regulatory documents, not primarily accounting
documents, and do not provide a complete range of financial disclosure about
the Bank, the Call Reports nevertheless provide important information
concerning the financial condition and results of operations of the Bank.  The
publicly available portions of each Call Report filed by the Bank and any
amendment or supplement thereto, beginning with and including the Call Report
for the period ended December 31, 1993, are incorporated herein by reference.
The publicly available portions of any subsequent Call Report filed by the Bank
with the Federal Reserve Board are incorporated herein by reference.  The
publicly available portions of the Call Reports with respect to the Bank are on
file with, and publicly available upon written request to, the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation (the "FDIC"), 550 17th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20429, Attention:  Disclosure Group, Room F-518.

         The Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of BanPonce Corporation (the
"Corporation"), a bank holding company organized in 1984 under the laws of the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and registered under the Bank Holding Company Act
of 1956, as amended ("BHCA").  In addition to the Call Reports referred to
above, the Bank also hereby incorporates by reference into this Offering
Circular the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 1995, the Corporation's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the
quarters ended March 31, 1996 and June 30, 1996 and the Corporation's Current
Report on Form 8-K dated July 9, 1996, as filed by the Corporation with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") pursuant to the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act").  Each
document filed by the Corporation pursuant to Section 13(a), 13(c) or 15(d) of
the Exchange Act subsequent to the date of this Offering Circular and prior to
the termination of the offering of the Notes shall be incorporated by reference
into this Offering Circular and deemed to be a part hereof from the date of
filing of such document.  This filed material can be inspected and copied at
the Commission's offices at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.  20549,
and the Commission's Regional Offices in New York (7 World Trade Center, 13th
Floor, New York, New York  10048) and Chicago (Citicorp Center, 500 West
Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois  60661-2511), and copies of such
materials can be obtained from the Public Reference Section of the Commission,
450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.  20549, at prescribed rates.  The
Commission maintains an Internet Web site that contains reports, proxy and
information statements and other information regarding





                                      2
<PAGE>   3

registrants that file electronically with the Commission, including the
Corporation.  The address of such Internet Web site is http://www.sec.gov.

         Any statement contained in a document incorporated or deemed to be
incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to be modified or superseded
for purposes of this Offering Circular to the extent that a statement contained
herein or in any other subsequently filed document which also is or is deemed
to be incorporated by reference herein modifies or supersedes such statement.
Any statement so modified or superseded shall not be deemed, except as so
modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this Offering Circular.

         The Bank and the Corporation will provide upon request and without
charge to each person to whom a copy of this Offering Circular is delivered a
copy of any or all of the foregoing documents incorporated herein by reference
(other than exhibits to such documents which are not specifically incorporated
therein by reference).  All written requests or telephone inquiries should be
directed to Amilcar L. Jordan (787-765-9800), BanPonce Corporation, 209 Munoz
Rivera Avenue, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico 00918.





                                      3
<PAGE>   4

                             NOTICE TO INVESTORS

         The Notes have not been, and are not required to be, registered with
the Commission under the 1933 Act or the Puerto Rico Uniform Securities Act.
Qualification of an indenture under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as
amended, is not required and no trust indenture has been entered into in
connection with the Notes.  The Notes will be offered and sold only to
institutional investors that are "accredited investors" as defined in Rule 501
under the 1933 Act ("institutional accredited investors") and each beneficial
owner of a Global Note will be required to hold a beneficial interest in
$250,000 principal amount or any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof
at all times in such Global Note.  EACH PURCHASER OF A NOTE, IN MAKING ITS
PURCHASE, WILL BE DEEMED TO HAVE REPRESENTED AND WARRANTED THAT IT IS SUCH AN
INSTITUTIONAL ACCREDITED INVESTOR, THAT IT IS PURCHASING SUCH NOTE FOR ITS OWN
ACCOUNT OR THE ACCOUNT OF ANOTHER INSTITUTIONAL ACCREDITED INVESTOR AND THAT
FOLLOWING SUCH PURCHASE IT OR SUCH OTHER INSTITUTIONAL ACCREDITED INVESTOR
HOLDING A BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN A GLOBAL NOTE WILL HOLD SUCH BENEFICIAL
INTEREST IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF $250,000 OR AN INTEGRAL MULTIPLE OF $1,000 IN
EXCESS THEREOF AT ALL TIMES.





                                      4
<PAGE>   5

                         BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

         Banco Popular de Puerto Rico is a commercial bank chartered under the
laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and  Puerto Rico's largest banking
institution based on assets.  The Bank, which is the Corporation's principal
banking subsidiary, offers a full range of commercial banking services and, in
addition, offers small personal loans, vehicle and equipment leasing and
mortgage services through its subsidiaries Popular Consumer Services, Inc.,
Popular Leasing and Rental, Inc., and Popular Mortgage, Inc.  Based on its Call
Reports, at June 30, 1996 the Bank had $13.6 billion in assets, $12.6 billion
in total liabilities and $936.7 million in total equity capital.  At June 30,
1996, the Bank operated through 170 branches throughout Puerto Rico, 29
branches in New York City, one branch in Los Angeles, California, seven
branches in the U.S. Virgin Islands, one branch in the British Virgin Islands
and a federal agency in Chicago.  At June 30, 1996, the assets of the Bank
constituted approximately 82.77% of the assets of the Corporation.  The
executive offices of the Bank are located at 209 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Hato Rey,
Puerto Rico 00918, telephone number (787) 765-9800.





                                      5
<PAGE>   6

             SELECTED UNAUDITED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE BANK

         The following tables set forth selected unaudited consolidated
financial information of the Bank and its subsidiaries, and are based on the
Call Reports of the Bank which are incorporated by reference in this Offering
Circular and should be read in conjunction therewith.  The financial
information presented is qualified in its entirety by the financial statements
and information available in the Call Reports as described above under
"Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference."  The Call Reports and the
following selected unaudited consolidated financial information were prepared
in accordance with regulatory accounting principles which differ, in certain
cases, from generally accepted accounting principles used to prepare the
consolidated financial statements of the Corporation.

                          
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO
                                                  (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                                             December 31,
                                                                                ---------------------------------------
                                                    June 30,       June 30,
                                                     1996(1)        1995(1)        1995          1994          1993
                                                   ----------     ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------
  <S>                                             <C>            <C>           <C>           <C>            <C>
  BALANCE SHEET DATA:
  ASSETS
  Cash and due from banks                         $   505,304    $   384,731   $   437,223   $   418,242    $   363,866
  Securities:
     Held to maturity                               1,694,764      3,334,599     1,651,344     2,905,805      3,329,798
     Available-for-sale                             2,858,951        883,151     2,869,896       708,698        714,566
  Federal funds sold and other money
     market investments                                21,117         75,966       113,285       265,670        262,692
  Trading securities                                  103,914          4,663        84,893         1,670          3,017
  Loans and leases, net of unearned income          7,965,474      7,150,080     7,349,053     6,825,671      5,861,832
  Allowance for loan and lease losses                 157,345        141,431       149,304       138,614        124,920 
                                                  -----------    -----------   -----------   -----------    -----------
  Loans and leases, net of unearned income          7,808,129      7,008,649     7,199,749     6,687,057      5,736,912
  Bank premises and equipment                         280,801        261,376       266,225       303,916        285,999
  Intangible assets                                    94,038        109,463       100,634        98,309        111,668
  Other real estate owned                               2,393          6,024         3,144         9,529         12,049
  Other assets                                        240,852        194,038       205,036       160,434        166,634   
                                                  -----------    -----------   -----------   -----------    -----------
     Total assets                                 $13,610,263    $12,262,660   $12,931,429   $11,559,330    $10,987,201
                                                  ===========    ===========   ===========   ===========    ===========
  LIABILITIES
  Deposits in domestic offices                    $10,021,588    $ 9,076,713   $ 9,300,713   $ 8,686,923    $ 8,505,580
  Deposits in foreign offices                          72,737         55,000        61,778        40,746         32,386
                                                  -----------    -----------   -----------   -----------    -----------
     Total deposits                                10,094,325      9,131,713     9,362,491     8,727,669      8,537,966
  Federal funds purchased and securities
     sold under agreements to repurchase            1,608,008      1,344,715     2,037,900     1,415,188        951,733
  Other short-term borrowings                         270,204        670,675       180,731       328,583        496,814
  Notes payable                                       492,138         73,795       203,790        59,600         29,692
  Subordinated notes                                       --         50,000        50,000        50,000         62,000
  Other liabilities                                   208,862        152,003       200,090       160,539        145,657
                                                  -----------    -----------   -----------   -----------    -----------
     Total liabilities                            $12,673,537    $11,422,901   $12,035,002   $10,741,579    $10,223,862
                                                  ===========    ===========   ===========   ===========    ===========
  EQUITY CAPITAL
  Preferred Stock                                          --             --            --            --         11,000
  Common Stock                                          7,710          7,710         7,710         7,710          7,710
  Surplus                                             579,617        514,617       529,617       514,617        491,046
  Undivided profits                                   358,222        274,407       300,080       269,459        211,012
  Net unrealized holding gains (losses)
     on securities available for sale                  (8,823)           168         9,020       (16,892)            --
    Capital reserves                                       --         42,857        50,000        42,857         42,571
                                                  -----------    -----------   -----------   -----------    -----------
  Total equity capital                                936,726        839,759       896,427       817,751        763,339
                                                  -----------    -----------   -----------   -----------    -----------
  Total liabilities and equity capital            $13,610,263    $12,262,660   $12,931,429   $11,559,330    $10,987,201
                                                  ===========    ===========   ===========   ===========    ===========  

</TABLE>
  _____________________

  (1)  Interim period financial data are not necessarily indicative of
       financial data for the year.





                                      6
<PAGE>   7

                         BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO
                            (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             Year to Date                           Years Ended
                                                       ------------------------         ------------------------------------
                                                          June          June
                                                       30, 1996(1)   30, 1995(1)          1995          1994         1993
                                                       ----------    ----------         --------      --------      --------
<S>                                                      <C>           <C>              <C>           <C>           <C>
INCOME STATEMENT DATA
Interest Income                                          $509,058      $449,693         $935,415      $793,740      $718,358
Interest Expense                                          219,855       202,324          421,542       311,989       261,822
  Net Interest Income                                     289,203       247,369          513,874       481,751       456,536
Provision for loan and lease losses                        35,291        20,440           54,907        44,846        62,437
Net interest income after provision                       253,912       226,930          458,967       436,905       394,099
Non interest income                                        89,771        69,385          150,025       131,233       118,393
Securities gains (losses)                                  (1,846)           (3)            (872)          224           864
Non interest expense                                      236,079       219,998          438,285       413,540       389,823
Income before taxes                                       105,757        76,313          169,835       154,822       123,533
Applicable income taxes                                    27,616        12,765           40,470        39,944        22,406
Dividends on preferred stock of Banco Popular                  --            --               --           385           770
Cumulative effect of accounting changes                        --            --               --            --         5,185
   Net Income                                             $78,142       $63,548         $129,365      $114,493      $105,542
SELECTED RATIOS
PERFORMANCE RATIOS
Return on assets                                             1.18%         1.09%            1.07%         1.02%         1.03%
Return on average equity                                    17.20%        15.18%           15.14%        14.42%        14.63%
Overhead ratio                                              50.59%        60.89%           56.10%        58.60%        59.45%
Non interest income as a % of total income                  31.04%        28.05%           29.19%        27.24%        25.93%
Earnings to fixed charges                                    2.65x         2.45x            2.45x         3.02x         3.76x
ASSET QUALITY RATIOS                                                                                                         
Net charge-offs to average loans                             0.76%         0.51%            0.62%         0.49%         0.84%
Allowance for losses to period end loans                     1.98%         1.98%            2.03%         2.03%         2.13%
Allowance for losses to non performing assets              120.47%       106.32%          107.87%       142.34%       118.56%
Non performing assets as a % of loans and                    1.64%         1.86%            1.88%         1.42%         1.79%
  leases plus OREO                                                                                                           
CAPITAL RATIOS                                                                                                               
  Tier 1                                                    11.30%        10.94%           11.74%        11.87%        11.85%
  Total                                                     12.56%        12.20%           13.01%        13.29%        13.72%
  Leverage Ratios                                            6.49%         6.47%            6.45%         6.99%         6.56%
- ---------------------                                                                                                        
</TABLE>

(1)  Interim period financial data are not necessarily indicative of financial
     data for the year.





                                      7
<PAGE>   8

                             BANPONCE CORPORATION

         BanPonce Corporation is a diversified, publicly owned bank holding
company, incorporated under the General Corporation Law of Puerto Rico in
November 1984.  It provides a wide variety of financial services through four
subsidiaries: the Bank, Vehicle Equipment Leasing Corporation ("VELCO"), BP
Capital Markets, Inc. ("BP Capital") and Popular International Bank, Inc.
("PIB").  At June 30, 1996, the Corporation had $16.4 billion in assets, $15.2
billion in total liabilities and $1.2 billion in total equity capital.

         VELCO is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Corporation engaged in
finance leasing of motor vehicles to corporations and professionals.  Effective
April 30, 1995, BP Capital became a direct subsidiary of the Corporation.  BP
Capital is a broker-dealer engaged in financial advisory and securities
brokerage, dealing and underwriting activities in Puerto Rico.  PIB is an
entity incorporated under the Puerto Rico International Banking Center Act,
which allows for the establishment of banks in Puerto Rico to do business
exclusively off island.  BanPonce Financial Corporation ("Financial"),
incorporated in Delaware, is PIB's sole subsidiary.  The subsidiaries of
Financial are Banco Popular, FSB ("FSB"), a federal savings bank, and Pioneer
Bancorp, Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware and
headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, which, through its wholly-owned subsidiary
River Associates Bancorp, Inc., a Delaware corporation, owns and operates
Pioneer Bank & Trust Company, a bank organized under the laws of the State of
Illinois.  Equity One, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned
subsidiary of FSB, is a diversified consumer financial company engaged in the
business of granting personal and mortgage loans and providing dealer
financing.  On August 26, 1996, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York approved
the application of the Corporation to acquire COMBANCORP, a bank holding
company located in Commerce, California, and thereby indirectly acquire its
national bank subsidiary, Commerce National Bank.  As of June 30, 1996,
COMBANCORP had assets of approximately $71 million, total liabilities of
approximately $65 million and total equity capital of approximately $6.0
million.

         The Corporation is subject to the provisions of the BHCA, and
accordingly, is subject to the supervision of the Federal Reserve Board. As the
indirect owner of FSB, the corporation is also subject to the provisions of the
Savings and Loan Holding Company Act, as amended, and, accordingly, is subject
to regulation by the Office of Thrift Supervision.


EACH NOTE ISSUED BY THE BANK IS SOLELY THE OBLIGATION OF THE BANK AND IS
NEITHER AN OBLIGATION OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, THE CORPORATION.


                  SUPERVISION, REGULATION AND OTHER MATTERS

GENERAL

         As a commercial bank organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico, the Bank is subject to supervision and regulation by the Office of
the Commissioner of Financial Institutions of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
(the "Office of the Commissioner"). In addition, as a result of its New York
branches,  the Bank is subject to supervision and regulation by the
Superintendent of Banks of the State of New York.  As a member of the Federal
Reserve System, the Bank is also subject to regulation by the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the "Federal Reserve Board").

DEPOSITOR PREFERENCE

         Federal law accords the claims of a receiver of an insured depository
institution for administrative expenses and the claims of holders of deposit
liabilities of such an institution (including the FDIC, as the subrogee of such
holders) priority over the claims of general unsecured creditors of such an
institution, including the holders of obligations such as the Notes, in the
event of a liquidation or other resolution of such institution.  For
information on the Bank's deposit liabilities outstanding at June 30, 1996, see
the selected unaudited financial information of the Bank presented above.





                                      8
<PAGE>   9

POWERS OF THE FDIC IN CONNECTION WITH THE INSOLVENCY OF AN INSURED DEPOSITORY
INSTITUTION

         Pursuant to certain provisions of the Financial Institutions Reform,
Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 ("FIRREA"), an insured depository
institution which is commonly controlled with another insured depository
institution is generally liable for any loss incurred, or reasonably
anticipated to be incurred, by the FDIC in connection with the default of such
commonly controlled institution, or any assistance provided by the FDIC to such
commonly controlled institution, which is in danger of default.  The term
"default" is defined to mean the appointment of a conservator or receiver for
such institution and "in danger of default" is defined generally as the
existence of certain conditions indicating  that a "default" is likely to occur
in the absence of regulatory assistance.  Thus, the Bank could incur liability
to the FDIC pursuant to this statutory provision in the event of the default of
any other insured depository institution owned or controlled by the
Corporation.  Such liability is subordinated in right of payment to deposit
liabilities, secured obligations, any other general or senior liability
(including the Notes), and any obligation subordinated to depositors or other
general creditors, other than obligations owed to any affiliate of the
depository institution (with certain exceptions) and any obligations to
shareholders in such capacity.  The Corporation currently has two insured
depository institution subsidiaries in addition to the Bank.

         In addition, if any insured depository institution becomes insolvent
and the FDIC is appointed its conservator or receiver, the FDIC may, under
FIRREA, disaffirm or repudiate any contract or lease to which such institution
is a party, the performance of which is determined to be burdensome, and the
disaffirmance or repudiation of which is determined to promote the orderly
administration of the institution's affairs.  If the FDIC were to successfully
contend that its power to repudiate "contracts" extends to obligations such as
the Notes, the effect of any such repudiation should be to accelerate the
maturity of the Notes.  Such repudiation would result in a claim of the holder
of the Notes against the receivership for principal and interest accrued
through the date of the appointment of the conservator or receiver.  The amount
paid upon this claim would depend upon, among other factors, the amount of
receivership assets available for the payment of unsecured claims and the
priority of this claim relative to the priority of other unsecured creditors
and depositors.  See "--Depositor Preference" above.  If the maturity of the
Notes were so accelerated, and a claim relating to the Notes paid by the
receivership, the holders of the Notes might not be able, depending upon
economic conditions, to reinvest any amounts paid on the Notes at a rate of
interest comparable to that paid on the Notes.  In addition, although the Notes
permit any holder of a Note to declare the principal amount of, accrued
interest and premium, if any, on such Note due and payable in the event of the
appointment of a conservator or receiver of the Bank, the FDIC as conservator
or receiver may enforce most types of contracts, including the Notes, pursuant
to their terms, notwithstanding any such provisions.  The FDIC as conservator
or receiver may also transfer to a new obligor any of the Bank's assets and
liabilities, including the Notes, without the approval or consent of the Bank's
creditors, including holders of the Notes.

         In its resolution of the problems of an insured depository institution
in default or in danger of default, the FDIC is generally obligated to satisfy
its obligations to insured depositors at the least possible cost to the deposit
insurance fund.  In addition, the FDIC may not take any action that would have
the effect of increasing the losses to a deposit insurance fund by protecting
depositors for more than the insured portion of deposits (generally $100,000
per depositor) or creditors other than depositors (such as holders of the
Notes).  FDICIA (as defined below) authorized the FDIC to settle all uninsured
and unsecured claims in the insolvency of an insured bank by making a final
settlement payment after the declaration of insolvency.  Such a payment would
constitute full payment and disposition of the FDIC's obligations to claimants.
The rate of such final settlement payment is to be a percentage rate determined
by the FDIC reflecting an average of the FDIC's receivership recovery
experience.

         As a result of the provisions described above, including those
described under "--Depositor Preference," and whether or not the FDIC seeks to
repudiate the Notes, in an insolvency of the Bank, holders of Notes would be
treated differently from, and could receive, if anything, significantly less
than, holders of deposit liabilities of the Bank.

FDICIA

         In December 1991, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Improvement Act of 1991 ("FDICIA") was signed into law.  In general, FDICIA
subjects banks to significantly increased regulation and supervision.  Among
other things, FDICIA requires federal bank regulatory authorities to take
"prompt corrective action" in respect of banks that do not meet minimum capital
requirements.  FDICIA establishes five capital ratio levels: well capitalized,





                                      9
<PAGE>   10

adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized and
critically undercapitalized.  Under applicable regulations, a bank is
considered to be well capitalized if it maintains a Tier 1 risk-based capital
ratio of at least 6%, a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10% and a
Tier 1 leverage capital ratio of at least 5%, and is not otherwise in a
"troubled condition" as specified by its appropriate federal regulatory agency.
A bank is considered to be adequately capitalized if it maintains a Tier 1
risk-based capital ratio of at least 4%, a total risk-based capital ratio of at
least 8% and a Tier 1 leverage capital ratio of at least 4% (3% for certain
highly rated institutions), and does not otherwise meet the well capitalized
definition.  The three undercapitalized categories are based upon the amount by
which the bank falls below the ratios applicable to adequately capitalized
institutions.  The capital categories are determined solely for the purposes of
applying FDICIA's prompt corrective action ("PCA") provisions, as discussed
below, and such capital categories may not constitute an accurate
representation of the overall financial condition or prospects of the Bank.

         As of June 30, 1996, the Bank met the requirements of a "well
capitalized" institution.  The capital ratios for the Bank as of June 30, 1996
are shown in the selected unaudited financial information of the Bank presented
above.

         Under FDICIA's PCA system, a bank in the undercapitalized category
must submit a capital restoration plan guaranteed by its parent company.  The
liability of the parent company under any such guarantee is limited to the
lesser of 5% of the bank's assets at the time it became undercapitalized or the
amount needed to comply with the plan.  A bank in the undercapitalized category
also is subject to limitations in numerous areas including, but not limited to,
asset growth, acquisitions, branching, new business lines, acceptance of
brokered deposits and borrowings from the Federal Reserve.  Progressively more
burdensome restrictions are applied to banks in the undercapitalized category
that fail to submit or implement a capital plan and to banks that are in the
significantly undercapitalized or critically undercapitalized categories.  In
addition, a bank's primary federal banking agency is authorized to downgrade
the bank's capital category to the next lower category upon a determination
that the bank is in an unsafe or unsound condition or is engaged in an unsafe
or unsound practice.  An unsafe or unsound practice can include receipt by the
institution of a less than satisfactory rating on its most recent examination
with respect to its asset quality, management, earnings or liquidity.

         The FDIC's deposit insurance assessments have moved under FDICIA from
a flat-rate system to a risk-based system.  The risk-based system places a bank
in one of nine risk categories, principally on the basis of its capital level
and an evaluation of the bank's risk to the BIF, and bases premiums on the
probability of loss to the FDIC with respect to each individual bank.  On
November 11, 1995, the FDIC revised its premium scheduled to provide a range
(effective January 1996) of 0% (subject to a $2,000 minimum) to .27%.  The
assessment rate schedule is subject to change by the FDIC and accordingly
assessment rates could increase in the future.

         FDICIA and the regulations issued thereunder also have (i) limited the
use of brokered deposits to well capitalized banks, and adequately capitalized
banks that have received waivers from the FDIC; (ii) implemented uniform real
estate lending rules; (iii) prescribed standards to limit the risks posed by
credit exposure between banks; (iv) revised risk-based capital rules to include
components for measuring the risk posed by interest rate changes; (v) amended
various consumer banking laws; (vi) increased restrictions on loans to a bank's
insiders; (vii) established standards in a number of areas to assure bank
safety and soundness; and (viii) implemented additional requirements for
institutions that have $500 million or more in total assets with respect to
annual independent audits, audit committees and management reports related to
financial statements, internal controls and compliance with designated laws and
regulations.

OTHER DEVELOPMENTS

         Notwithstanding state law to the contrary, the Riegle-Neal Interstate
Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994 ("IBBEA") authorizes interstate
acquisitions of banks and bank holding companies without geographic limitation
beginning September 29, 1995.  In addition, beginning June 1, 1997, IBBEA
authorizes a bank to merge with a bank in another state as long as neither of
the states has "opted out" of interstate branching between the date of
enactment of IBBEA and May 31, 1997. IBBEA further provides that states may
enact laws permitting interstate bank merger and acquisitions transactions
prior to June 1, 1997 ("opting in").  A bank may establish and operate a de
novo branch in a state in which the bank does not maintain a branch if that
state expressly permits de novo





                                      10
<PAGE>   11

branching.  As a Puerto Rico bank, the Bank is treated as a foreign bank for
interstate branching purposes and may branch interstate by merger or de novo to
the same extent as a domestic bank in the Bank's home state in the United
States, which is the State of New York.  On September 29, 1995, the Office of
the Commissioner issued a circular letter explaining that both interstate
banking and interstate branching have been authorized in Puerto Rico since
1933.  The circular letter also provides that it is intended to have the same
force and effect of "opting in" under the IBBEA.

         Various bills have been introduced into the United States Congress
that would repeal in some respects the provisions of the Glass-Steagall Act
prohibiting certain banking organizations from engaging in certain securities
activities and the provisions of the BHCA prohibiting affiliations between
banking organizations and nonbanking organizations.  The Bank cannot predict if
and when any such legislation will be enacted or the effect thereof.

PUERTO RICO REGULATION

         Section 27 of the Banking Law requires that at least 10% of the yearly
net income of the Bank be credited annually to a reserve fund.  This
apportionment shall be done every year until the reserve fund shall be equal to
10% of the total deposits or the total paid-in capital, whichever is greater.
At the end of its most recent fiscal year, the Bank had a fund established in
compliance with these requirements.

         Section 27 of the Banking Law also provides that when the expenditures
of a bank are greater than the receipts, the excess of the former over the
latter shall be charged against the undistributed profits of the bank, and the
balance, if any, shall be charged against the reserve fund, as a reduction
thereof.  If there is no reserve fund sufficient to cover such balance in whole
or in part, the outstanding amount shall be charged against the capital account
and no dividend shall be declared until said capital has been restored to its
original amount and the reserve fund to 20% of the original capital.

         Section 16 of the Banking Law requires every bank to maintain a legal
reserve which shall not be less than 20% of its demand liabilities, except
government deposits (federal, state and municipal) which are secured by actual
collateral.  However, if a bank becomes a member of the Federal Reserve System,
the 20% legal reserve shall not be effective and the reserve requirements of
the Federal Reserve System shall be applicable.  Pursuant to an order of the
Federal Reserve Board dated November 24, 1982, the Bank has been exempted from
the reserve requirements of the Federal Reserve Board with respect to deposits
payable in Puerto Rico but is subject to Puerto Rico regulatory reserve
requirements with respect to such deposits.

         Section 17 of the Banking Law permits the Bank to make loans to any
one person, firm, partnership or corporation, up to an aggregate amount of
fifteen percent of the paid-in capital and reserve fund of the Bank.  As of
June 30, 1996, the legal lending limit for the Bank under this provision was
approximately $88.1 million.  If such loans are secured by collateral worth at
least 25 percent more than the amount of the loan, the aggregate maximum amount
may reach one third of the paid-in capital of the Bank, plus its reserve fund.
There are no restrictions under Section 17 on the amount of loans which are
wholly secured by bonds, securities and other evidence of indebtedness of the
Government of the United States or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or by
current debt bonds, not in default, of municipalities or instrumentalities of
the Commonwealth.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

         On August 20, 1996, the Small Business Job Protection Act of 1996 (the
"SBJPA") was proposed.  The SBJPA provides for the repeal of Section 936 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Section 936").  In general terms,
Section 936 provides United States corporations operating in Puerto Rico ("936
corporations") with a tax credit against United States federal tax liability on
income derived from business operations and certain investments in Puerto Rico.
The SBJPA phases out the Section 936 tax credit for income derived from Puerto
Rican business operations of a 936 corporation over a ten-year period and
repeals, retroactively as of July 1, 1996, the credit against United States
federal tax liability for investments ("936 funds") made by 936 corporations in
Puerto Rico.  This credit has created a local money market (the "936 funds
market") in which funding is normally available at a cost below that prevailing
in the United States mainland or the Eurodollar market.  The volume of the 936
funds market could be reduced significantly during the Bank's current fiscal
year as a result of the enactment of the SBJPA.  As of June 30, 1996, the Bank
was a recipient of and had a balance of $2.1 billion in 936 funds, representing
17.5% of





                                      11
<PAGE>   12

the Bank's total liabilities.  The Bank anticipates that the main impact of the
SBJPA would be a moderate net increase in the Bank's cost of funds.  The
anticipated rise in the cost of funds is expected to be partially offset by a
decrease in the cost of complying with various investment requirements mandated
by local regulations that are applicable to all recipients of 936 funds.  The
repeal of Section 936 could have an adverse effect on the general economic
condition of Puerto Rico, the Bank's predominant service area.


                               USE OF PROCEEDS

         The Bank intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of the Notes
for general corporate purposes in the ordinary course of its business.


                             DESCRIPTION OF NOTES

         The following summaries of certain provisions of the Notes do not
purport to be complete and are subject to, and are qualified in their entirety
by reference to, all of the provisions of the Notes, including the definitions
therein of certain terms.  The terms and conditions set forth below will apply
to each Note unless otherwise specified herein or in any amendment or
supplement hereto, or in the applicable Note.  The terms of the Notes described
herein, including the maturities and interest rates, may differ from one Note
to another.

GENERAL

         The Bank may from time to time issue Short-Term Bank Notes and
Medium-Term Bank Notes.  The aggregate principal amount of Notes will not
exceed an aggregate maximum principal amount of $600,000,000 outstanding at any
one time.  The Bank may issue promissory notes and other obligations evidencing
indebtedness in addition to the Notes and deposit instruments in an unlimited
principal amount.  Unless previously redeemed or repaid, each Short-Term Bank
Note will mature from 7 days to one year from its date of issue and each
Medium-Term Bank Note will mature from greater than one year to 15 years from
its date of issue, in each case as selected by the initial purchaser and agreed
to by the Bank.  Unless otherwise specified in an applicable Note, the Notes
will be denominated in U.S. dollars and will be issued only in fully registered
form in minimum denominations of $250,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in
excess thereof.

         EACH NOTE WILL BE A DIRECT, UNCONDITIONAL AND UNSECURED OBLIGATION OF
THE BANK AND WILL NOT BE AN OBLIGATION OF, OR GUARANTEED BY, ANY OTHER BANK OR
THE CORPORATION.  IN EACH INSTANCE THE NOTES DO NOT EVIDENCE DEPOSITS OF THE
BANK AND ARE NOT INSURED BY THE FDIC OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY.  THE NOTES
RANK PARI PASSU WITH ALL OTHER SENIOR UNSECURED INDEBTEDNESS OF THE BANK,
EXCEPT DEPOSIT LIABILITIES AND OTHER OBLIGATIONS THAT ARE SUBJECT TO ANY
PRIORITY OR PREFERENCES.  IN A LIQUIDATION OR OTHER RESOLUTION OF THE BANK, THE
NOTES WOULD BE TREATED DIFFERENTLY FROM, AND HOLDERS OF THE NOTES COULD
RECEIVE, IF ANYTHING, SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN HOLDERS OF, DEPOSIT LIABILITIES
OF THE BANK.  SEE "SUPERVISION, REGULATION AND OTHER MATTERS."

         The Notes issued by the Bank will be issued under an Issuing and
Paying Agency Agreement, dated as of September 24, 1996 (the "Issuing and
Paying Agency Agreement"), between the Bank and The Chase Manhattan Bank as
issuing and paying agent (the "Issuing and Paying Agent").  The Issuing and
Paying Agency Agreement provides that the Issuing and Paying Agent may resign
at any time as such agent with respect to the Notes upon 90 days' written
notice to the Bank or be removed as such agent with respect to the Notes not
less than 30 days following receipt of a written instrument signed by a duly
authorized officer of the Bank.  The Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement
provides that any successor Issuing and Paying Agent shall be a bank or trust
company organized and doing business under the laws of the United States or any
state thereof, authorized under such laws to exercise corporate trust powers,
have a combined capital and surplus of at least $10,000,000 and be subject to
supervision and examination by federal or state authority; provided, however,
that the foregoing capital and surplus requirements shall not be applicable if
the Bank or any affiliate thereof is appointed as successor Issuing and Paying
Agent.

         The Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement provides that any corporation
or bank resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the
Issuing and Paying Agent is a party shall be the successor Issuing and Paying





                                      12
<PAGE>   13

Agent under the terms of the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement without the
execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of any party to
the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement.

         The Notes will not be issued pursuant to an indenture and, as such,
the Issuing and Paying Agent will not be obligated to exercise certain
responsibilities that may be exercised by an independent trustee or fiscal
agent in connection with certain other debt offerings.  Among the
responsibilities that may be exercised by an independent trustee or fiscal
agent in connection with certain other debt offerings that will not be
exercised by the Issuing and Paying Agent are discretionary actions in
connection with Events of Default.  Each holder of a Note will therefore be
responsible for acting independently with respect to certain matters affecting
such holder's Note including, but not limited to, responding to requests for
consents and waivers, giving written notice of default in the performance of
any agreement contained in the Note and accelerating the maturity of such Note
on the occurrence of an Event of Default.

         Except as described below, the Notes will be issued only in book-entry
form and will be represented by one or more Global Notes registered in the name
of the Depositary, or a nominee thereof (each beneficial interest in a Global
Note, a "DTC Book-Entry Note" and collectively, the "DTC Book-Entry Notes").
See "Book-Entry Registration" below.  Payments of principal of, premium, if
any, and interest on, DTC Book-Entry Notes will be made as specified under
"Book- Entry Registration" below.  DTC Book-Entry Notes will be transferable or
exchangeable only in the manner and to the extent set forth under "Book-Entry
Registration" below.

         The Notes will be offered on a continuous basis.  Unless otherwise
specified in an applicable Note, interest- bearing Notes will either be Fixed
Rate Notes or Floating Rate Notes as specified in the applicable Note.  Notes
may be issued at discounts from their principal amount payable at Maturity and
some Notes may not bear interest. "Maturity" means the Stated Maturity Date of
a Note or any prior date on which the principal, or an installment of
principal, of a Note becomes due and payable, whether by the declaration of
acceleration, call for redemption at the option of the Bank, repayment at the
option of the holder or otherwise.

         The Notes provide that the Bank may consolidate with or merge into any
other corporation, banking association or other legal entity or sell, convey,
transfer or lease the property of the Bank as an entirety or substantially as
an entirety if and only if:  (i) immediately after such consolidation, merger,
sale or conveyance the successor is not in default in the performance or
observance of any of the terms, covenants and conditions of the Notes to be
observed or performed by the Bank, and (ii) the successor is organized under
the laws of the United States of America, any state thereunder, the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or the District of Columbia and expressly assumes
the due and punctual payment of the principal of, premium, if any, and interest
on the Notes.

         No recourse shall be had for the payment of principal of, premium, if
any, or interest on, any Note, for any claim based thereon, or otherwise in
respect thereof, against any shareholder, employee, agent, officer or director,
as such, past, present or future, of the Bank or of any successor thereof.  The
Notes will not contain any provision that would provide protection to the
holders of the Notes against a sudden and dramatic decline in credit quality
resulting from a merger, takeover, recapitalization or similar restructuring of
the Bank or of the Corporation or any other event involving the Bank or the
Corporation that may adversely affect the credit quality of the Bank.

INTEREST

         Each Note will bear interest from and including its date of issue or
from and including the most recent Interest Payment Date (as defined below) to
which interest on such Note (or any predecessor Note) has been paid or duly
provided for at the fixed interest rate per annum, or at the floating interest
rate per annum determined by reference to the interest rate basis or bases
specified in the applicable Note, until the principal thereof is paid or made
available for payment.  Interest will be payable in arrears on each Interest
Payment Date and at Maturity.  Interest will be paid generally to the person in
whose name a Note (or any predecessor Note) is registered at the close of
business on the Record Date next preceding the applicable Interest Payment
Date; provided, however, that interest payable at Maturity will be payable to
the person to whom principal shall be payable.  The first payment of interest
on any Note originally issued between a Record Date and the Interest Payment
Date immediately following such Record Date will be made on the second Interest
Payment Date following the Issue Date of such Note to the registered holder on
the Record Date immediately preceding such second Interest Payment Date.





                                      13
<PAGE>   14

FIXED RATE NOTES

         The applicable Fixed Rate Note will designate a fixed interest rate
per annum payable on such Fixed Rate Note.  Unless otherwise specified in an
applicable Note, the interest payment dates (the "Interest Payment Dates") for
Fixed Rate Notes having maturities of greater than one year (the "Fixed Rate
Medium-Term Bank Notes") will be June 15 and December 15 of each year, and the
Record Dates (the "Record Dates") will be the June 1 and December 1, whether or
not a Business Day, as the case may be, next preceding the applicable Interest
Payment Date.  Payments of interest on Fixed Rate Medium-Term Bank Notes will
include interest accrued to but excluding the relevant Interest Payment Date or
Maturity.  Unless otherwise specified in an applicable Note, interest on Fixed
Rate Medium-Term Bank Notes will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of
twelve 30-day months.

         Unless specified in a Fixed Rate Note, interest on Fixed Rate Notes
with maturities of one year or less (the "Fixed Rate Short-Term Bank Notes")
will be payable only at Maturity to the person to whom principal shall be
payable.  Payments of interest on Fixed Rate Short-Term Bank Notes will include
interest accrued to but excluding Maturity.  Unless otherwise specified in an
applicable Note, interest on Fixed Rate Short-Term Bank Notes will be computed
on the basis of the actual number of days in the year divided by 360.

         If any Interest Payment Date or Maturity of a Fixed Rate Note falls on
a day which is not a Business Day, the related payment of principal, premium,
if any, and interest will be made on the next succeeding Business Day with the
same force and effect as if made on the date such payment were due, and no
interest will accrue on the amount so payable for the period from and after
such Interest Payment Date or Maturity, as the case may be.

FLOATING RATE NOTES

         Except as described below or as otherwise specified in an applicable
Note, Floating Rate Notes will be issued as described below.  Unless otherwise
specified in an applicable Note, a "Record Date" shall be the fifteenth
calendar day, whether or not a Business Day (as defined below), immediately
preceding the related Interest Payment Date.  Each Floating Rate Note will
specify the "Interest Rate Basis" or "Interest Rate Bases" by reference to
which interest will be determined, which may be one or more of (i) the
"Commercial Paper Rate," in which case such Note will be a "Commercial Paper
Rate Note," (ii) the "Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate," in which case such
Note will be an "Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Note," (iii) the "Federal
Funds Rate," in which case such Note will be a "Federal Funds Rate Note," (iv)
"LIBOR," in which case such Note will be a "LIBOR Note," (v) the "Prime Rate,"
in which case such Note will be a "Prime Rate Note," (vi) the "Treasury Rate,"
in which case such Note will be a "Treasury Rate Note," or (vii) such other
Interest Rate Basis or interest rate formula as may be set forth in the
applicable Note.  Each applicable Floating Rate Note will also specify certain
additional terms with respect to which such Floating Rate Note is being
delivered, including: whether such Floating Rate Note is a "Regular Floating
Rate Note," a "Floating Rate/Fixed Rate Note" or an "Inverse Floating Rate
Note," the Initial Interest Rate, Interest Reset Dates, Record Dates, Interest
Payment Dates, the Index Maturity, the Maximum Interest Rate and Minimum
Interest Rate, if any, and the Spread and/or Spread Multiplier, if any, and if
one or more of the specified Interest Rate Bases is LIBOR, the applicable LIBOR
screen, as described below.

         The interest rate borne by a Floating Rate Note will be determined as
follows:

         (i)   Unless such Floating Rate Note is designated as a "Floating
Rate/Fixed Rate Note," an "Inverse Floating Rate Note" or as having an
"Addendum" attached, such Note will be designated a "Regular Floating Rate
Note" and, except as described below or in such Note, will bear interest at the
rate determined by reference to the applicable Interest Rate Basis or Bases (i)
plus or minus the applicable Spread, if any, and/or (ii) multiplied by the
applicable Spread Multiplier, if any.  Commencing on the Initial Interest Reset
Date, the rate at which interest on such Note shall be payable shall be reset
as of each Interest Reset Date; provided, however, that the interest rate in
effect for the period from the Original Issue Date to the Initial Interest
Reset Date will be the Initial Interest Rate.

         (ii)  If such Floating Rate Note is designated as a "Floating
Rate/Fixed Rate Note," then, except as described below or in such Note, such
Note will bear interest at the rate determined by reference to the applicable
Interest Rate Basis or Bases (i) plus or minus the applicable Spread, if any,
and/or (ii) multiplied by the applicable Spread Multiplier, if any.  Commencing
on the Initial Interest Reset Date, the rate at which interest on such Note
shall be





                                      14
<PAGE>   15

payable shall be reset as of each Interest Reset Date; provided, however, that
(i) the interest rate in effect for the period from the Original Issue Date to
the Initial Interest Reset Date will be the Initial Interest Rate; and (ii) the
interest rate in effect commencing on, and including, the Fixed Rate
Commencement Date to Maturity shall be the Fixed Interest Rate, if such rate is
specified in such Note, or if no Fixed Interest Rate is so specified, the
interest rate in effect thereon on the Business Day immediately preceding the
Fixed Rate Commencement Date.

         (iii)  If such Floating Rate Note is designated as an "Inverse
Floating Rate Note," then, except as described below or in such Note, such Note
will bear interest equal to the Fixed Interest Rate specified in such Note
minus the rate determined by reference to the Interest Rate Basis or Bases (i)
plus or minus the applicable Spread, if any, and/or (ii) multiplied by the
applicable Spread Multiplier, if any; provided, however, that, unless otherwise
specified in such Note, the interest rate thereon will not be less than zero.
Commencing on the Initial Interest Reset Date, the rate at which interest on
such Note is payable shall be reset as of each Interest Reset Date; provided,
however, that the interest rate in effect for the period from the Original
Issue Date to the Initial Interest Reset Date will be the Initial Interest
Rate.

         Notwithstanding the foregoing, if such Floating Rate Note is
designated as having an Addendum attached, such Floating Rate Note shall bear
interest in accordance with the terms described in such Addendum and the
applicable Note.

         The "Spread" is the number of basis points to be added to or
subtracted from the related Interest Rate Basis or Bases applicable to such
Floating Rate Note.  The "Spread Multiplier" is the percentage by which the
applicable Interest Rate Basis or Bases will be multiplied to determine the
applicable interest rate on such Floating Rate Note.  The "Index Maturity" is
the period to maturity of the instrument or obligation with respect to which
the Interest Rate Basis or Bases will be calculated.  The Spread, Spread
Multiplier, Index Maturity and other variable terms of the Floating Rate Notes
are subject to change by the Bank from time to time, but no such change will
affect any Floating Rate Note previously issued or as to which an offer has
been accepted by the Bank.

         Each Floating Rate Note will specify whether the rate of interest
thereon will be reset daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, semiannually, annually
or any other specified period (each, an "Interest Reset Period") and the dates
on which such Interest Rate will be reset (each, an "Interest Reset Date").
Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, the Interest Reset Date will
be, in the case of Floating Rate Notes which reset: (i) daily, each Business
Day; (ii) weekly, the Wednesday of each week (with the exception of weekly
reset Floating Rate Notes as to which the Treasury Rate is an applicable
Interest Rate Basis, which will reset the Tuesday of each week, except as
specified below); (iii) monthly, the third Wednesday of each month (with the
exception of monthly reset Floating Rate Notes as to which the Eleventh
District Cost of Funds Rate is an applicable Interest Rate Basis, which will
reset on the first calendar day of the month); (iv) quarterly, the third
Wednesday of March, June, September and December of each year; (v)
semiannually, the third Wednesday of the two months specified in the applicable
Note; and (vi) annually, the third Wednesday of the month specified in the
applicable Note; provided, however, that, with respect to Floating Rate/Fixed
Rate Notes, the fixed rate of interest in effect for the period from the Fixed
Rate Commencement Date until Maturity shall be the Fixed Interest Rate or the
interest rate in effect on the Business Day immediately preceding the Fixed
Rate Commencement Date, as specified in the applicable Note; and provided
further that no Interest Reset Date will occur after the Fixed Rate
Commencement Date.  If any Interest Reset Date for any Floating Rate Note would
otherwise be a day that is not a Business Day, such Interest Reset Date will be
postponed to the next succeeding day that is a Business Day, except that in the
case of a Floating Rate Note as to which LIBOR is an applicable Interest Rate
Basis, if such Business Day falls in the next succeeding calendar month, such
Interest Reset Date will be the immediately preceding Business Day.  As used
herein, "Business Day" means, unless otherwise specified in the applicable
Note, any day that is not a Saturday or Sunday and that in The City of New York
or in the city in which the Bank is headquartered is not a day which is a bank
holiday in Puerto Rico or a day on which banking institutions are required by
law, regulation or executive order to close and, with respect to Notes as to
which LIBOR is an applicable Interest Rate Basis, is also a London Business
Day.  As used herein, "London Business Day" means any day on which dealings in
deposits in U.S. dollars are transacted in the London interbank market.

         The interest rate applicable to each day in an Interest Reset Period
will be the rate determined as of the Interest Determination Date immediately
preceding the Interest Reset Date on which such Interest Reset Period
commenced.  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, the Interest
Determination Date with respect to the





                                      15
<PAGE>   16

Commercial Paper Rate, the Federal Funds Rate and the Prime Rate will be the
second Business Day preceding each Interest Reset Date; the Interest
Determination Date with respect to the Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate
will be the last working day of the month immediately preceding each Interest
Reset Date on which the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (the "FHLB of
San Francisco") publishes the Index (as herein defined); and the Interest
Determination Date with respect to LIBOR will be the second London Business Day
immediately preceding each Interest Reset Date.  With respect to the Treasury
Rate, the Interest Determination Date will be the day in the week in which the
related Interest Reset Date falls on which day Treasury Bills (as defined
below) are normally auctioned (Treasury Bills are normally sold at auction on
Monday of each week, unless the day is a legal holiday, in which case the
auction is normally held on the following Tuesday, except that such auction may
be held on the preceding Friday); provided, however, that if an auction is held
on the Friday of the week preceding the related Interest Reset Date, the
related Interest Determination Date will be such preceding Friday; and provided
further that if an auction falls on any Interest Reset Date, then the related
Interest Reset Date will instead be the first Business Day following such
auction.  The Interest Determination Date pertaining to a Floating Rate Note
the interest rate of which is determined with reference to two or more Interest
Rate Bases will be the latest Business Day which is at least two Business Days
prior to such Interest Reset Date for such Floating Rate Note on which each
Interest Rate Basis is determinable.  Each Interest Rate Basis will be
determined on such date, and the applicable interest rate will take effect on
the Interest Reset Date.

         Each Floating Rate Note will bear interest from the date of issue at
the rates specified therein until the principal thereof is paid or otherwise
made available for payment.  Except as provided below or in an applicable Note,
the Interest Payment Dates will be, in the case of Floating Rate Notes which
reset: (i) daily, weekly or monthly, the third Wednesday of each month or the
third Wednesday of March, June, September and December of each year, as
specified in the applicable Note; (ii) quarterly, the third Wednesday of March,
June, September and December of each year; (iii) semiannually, the third
Wednesday of the two months of each year specified in the applicable Note; and
(iv) annually, the third Wednesday of the month of each year specified in the
applicable Note and, in each case, interest will be payable at Maturity.  If
any Interest Payment Date for any Floating Rate Note (other than an Interest
Payment Date at Maturity) would otherwise be a day that is not a Business Day,
such Interest Payment Date will be postponed to the next succeeding day that is
a Business Day except that in the case of a Floating Rate Note as to which
LIBOR is an applicable Interest Rate Basis, if such Business Day falls in the
next succeeding calendar month, such Interest Payment Date will be the
immediately preceding Business Day.  If the Maturity of a Floating Rate Note
falls on a day that is not a Business Day, the payment of principal, premium,
if any, and interest will be made on the next succeeding Business Day, and no
interest on such payment will accrue for the period from and after such
Maturity.

         A Floating Rate Note may also have either or both of the following:
(i) a minimum numerical limitation, or floor, on the rate at which interest may
accrue during any interest period (a "Minimum Interest Rate"); and (ii) a
maximum numerical limitation, or ceiling, on the rate at which interest may
accrue during any interest period (a "Maximum Interest Rate").  Notwithstanding
the above provisions, the interest rate on Floating Rate Notes will in no event
be higher than the maximum rate permitted by New York law as the same may be
modified by United States law of general application.  Under present New York
law, the maximum rate of interest, subject to certain exceptions, for any loan
in an amount less than $250,000, is 16%, and for any loan in the amount of
$250,000 or more but less than $2,500,000, is 25%, per annum on a simple
interest basis.  These limits do not apply to loans of $2,500,000 or more.

         Interest payments on Floating Rate Notes will equal the amount of
interest accrued from and including the next preceding Interest Payment Date in
respect of which interest has been paid (or from and including the Original
Issue Date, if no interest has been paid with respect to such Floating Rate
Notes) to but excluding the related Interest Payment Date or Maturity, as the
case may be.

         With respect to each Floating Rate Note, accrued interest is
calculated by multiplying its face amount by an accrued interest factor.  Such
accrued interest factor is computed by adding the interest factor calculated
for each day in the period for which interest is being calculated.  Unless
otherwise specified in the applicable Note, the interest factor for each such
day will be computed by dividing the interest rate applicable to such day by
360, in the case of Notes for which an applicable Interest Rate Basis is the
Commercial Paper Rate, the Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate, the Federal
Funds Rate, LIBOR or the Prime Rate, or by the actual number of days in the
year in the case of Notes for which an applicable Interest Rate Basis is the
Treasury Rate.  Unless otherwise specified in an applicable





                                      16
<PAGE>   17

Note, the interest factor for Notes for which the interest rate is calculated
with reference to two or more Interest Rate Bases will be calculated in each
period in the same manner as if only one of the applicable Interest Rate Bases
applied as specified in the applicable Note.

         All percentages resulting from any calculation on Floating Rate Notes
will be rounded to the nearest one hundred-thousandth of a percentage point,
with five one millionths of a percentage point rounded upwards (e.g., 9.876545%
(or .09876545) would be rounded to 9.87655% (or .0987655)), and all dollar
amounts used in or resulting from such calculation on Floating Rate Notes will
be rounded to the nearest cent (with one-half cent being rounded upwards).

         Unless otherwise provided in the applicable Note, The Chase Manhattan
Bank will be the "Calculation Agent." Upon request of the holder of any
Floating Rate Note, the Calculation Agent will provide the interest rate then
in effect and, if determined, the interest rate that will become effective as a
result of a determination made for the next Interest Reset Date with respect to
such Floating Rate Note.  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note,
the "Calculation Date," if applicable, pertaining to any Interest Determination
Date will be the earlier of (i) the tenth calendar day after such Interest
Determination Date, or, if such day is not a Business Day, the next succeeding
Business Day or (ii) the Business Day immediately preceding the applicable
Interest Payment Date or Maturity, as the case may be.  The determination of
any interest rate by the Calculation Agent will be final and binding absent
manifest error.

COMMERCIAL PAPER RATE.  Commercial Paper Rate Notes will bear interest at the
rates (calculated with reference to the Commercial Paper Rate and the Spread
and/or Spread Multiplier, if any) specified in such Commercial Paper Rate
Notes.

         Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, "Commercial Paper
Rate" means, with respect to any Interest Determination Date relating to a
Commercial Paper Rate Note or any Floating Rate Note for which the interest
rate is determined with reference to the Commercial Paper Rate (a "Commercial
Paper Rate Interest Determination Date"), the Money Market Yield (as defined
below) on such date of the rate for commercial paper having the Index Maturity
specified in the applicable Note as published by the Board of Governors of the
Federal Reserve System in the weekly statistical release entitled "Statistical
Release H.15(519), Selected Interest Rates," or any successor publication of
the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System ("H.15(519)") under the
heading "Commercial Paper."  In the event that such rate is not published by
3:00 P.M., New York City time, on the related Calculation Date, then the
Commercial Paper Rate will be the Money Market Yield on such Commercial Paper
Rate Interest Determination Date of the rate for commercial paper having the
Index Maturity specified in the applicable Note as published in the daily
statistical release entitled "Composite 3:30 P.M. Quotations for U.S.
Government Securities" or any successor publication published by the Federal
Reserve Bank of New York ("Composite Quotations") under the heading "Commercial
Paper" (with an Index Maturity of one month or three months being deemed to be
equivalent to an Index Maturity of 30 days or 90 days, respectively).  If by
3:00 P.M., New York City time, on the related Calculation Date such rate is not
yet published in either H.15(519) or Composite Quotations, the Commercial Paper
Rate on such Commercial Paper Rate Interest Determination Date will be
calculated by the Calculation Agent and will be the Money Market Yield of the
arithmetic mean of the offered rates at approximately 11:00 A.M., New York City
time, on such Commercial Paper Rate Interest Determination Date of three
leading dealers of commercial paper in The City of New York (which may include
one or more of the Agents or their respective affiliates) selected by the
Calculation Agent for commercial paper having the Index Maturity designated in
the applicable Note placed for an industrial issuer whose bond rating is "AA,"
or the equivalent, from a nationally recognized securities rating agency;
provided, however, that if any of the dealers selected as aforesaid by the
Calculation Agent are not quoting as mentioned in this sentence, the Commercial
Paper Rate determined as of such Commercial Paper Rate Interest Determination
Date shall be the Commercial Paper Rate in effect on such Commercial Paper Rate
Interest Determination Date.

         "Money Market Yield" means a yield (expressed as a percentage)
calculated in accordance with the following formula.

                       Money Market Yield =      D X 360     X   100
                                              ------------
                                              360 - (D X M)





                                      17
<PAGE>   18


where "D" refers to the applicable per annum rate for commercial paper quoted
on a bank discount basis and expressed as a decimal, and "M" refers to the
actual number of days in the interest period for which interest is being
calculated.

ELEVENTH DISTRICT COST OF FUNDS RATE.  Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate
Notes will bear interest at the rates (calculated with reference to the
Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate and the Spread and/or Spread Multiplier,
if any) specified in such Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Notes.

         Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, "Eleventh District
Cost of Funds Rate" means, with respect to any Interest Determination Date
relating to an Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Note or any Floating Rate
Note for which the interest rate is determined with reference to the Eleventh
District Cost of Funds Rate (an "Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Interest
Determination Date"), the rate equal to the monthly weighted average cost of
funds for the calendar month immediately preceding the month in which such
Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Interest Determination Date falls, as set
forth under the caption "11th District" on Telerate Page 7058 (as defined
below) as of 11:00 A.M., San Francisco time, on such Eleventh District Cost of
Funds Rate Interest Determination Date.  If such rate does not appear on
Telerate Page 7058 on any related Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Interest
Determination Date, the Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate for such Eleventh
District Cost of Funds Rate Interest Determination Date shall be the monthly
weighted average cost of funds paid by member institutions of the Eleventh
Federal Home Loan Bank District that was most recently announced (the "Index")
by the FHLB of San Francisco as such cost of funds for the calendar month
immediately preceding the date of such announcement.  If the FHLB of San
Francisco fails to announce such rate for the calendar month immediately
preceding such Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Interest Determination
Date, then the Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate determined as of such
Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Interest Determination Date shall be the
Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate in effect on such Eleventh District Cost
of Funds Rate Interest Determination Date.

         "Telerate Page 7058" means the display designated as page "7058" on
the Dow Jones Telerate Service (or such other page as may replace the 7058 page
on that service for the purpose of displaying the monthly weighted average cost
of funds paid by member institutions of the Eleventh Federal Home Loan Bank
District).

FEDERAL FUNDS RATE.  Federal Funds Rate Notes will bear interest at the rates
(calculated with reference to the Federal Funds Rate and the Spread and/or
Spread Multiplier, if any) specified in such Federal Funds Rate Notes.

         Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, "Federal Funds
Rate" means, with respect to any Interest Determination Date relating to a
Federal Funds Rate Note or any Floating Rate Note for which the interest rate
is determined with reference to the Federal Funds Rate (a "Federal Funds Rate
Interest Determination Date"), the rate on such date for federal funds as
published in H.15(519) under the heading "Federal Funds (Effective)" or, if not
so published by 3:00 P.M., New York City time, on the related Calculation Date,
the rate on such Federal Funds Rate Interest Determination Date as published in
Composite Quotations under the heading "Federal Funds/Effective Rate."  If by
3:00 P.M., New York City time, on the related Calculation Date such rate is not
published in either H.15(519) or Composite Quotations, then the Federal Funds
Rate on such Federal Funds Rate Interest Determination Date will be calculated
by the Calculation Agent and will be the arithmetic mean of the rates for the
last transaction in overnight United States dollar federal funds arranged prior
to 9:00 A.M., New York City time, on such Federal Funds Rate Interest
Determination Date by three leading brokers of federal funds transactions in
The City of New York (which may include one or more of the Agents or their
respective affiliates) selected by the Calculation Agent; provided, however,
that if any of the brokers selected as aforesaid by the Calculation Agent are
not quoting as mentioned in this sentence, the Federal Funds Rate determined as
of such Federal Funds Rate Interest Determination Date shall be the Federal
Funds Rate in effect on such Federal Funds Rate Interest Determination Date.

LIBOR.  LIBOR Notes will bear interest at the rates (calculated with reference
to LIBOR and the Spread and/or Spread Multiplier, if any) specified in such
LIBOR Notes.

         Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, "LIBOR" means the
rate determined by the Calculation Agent in accordance with the following
provisions:





                                      18
<PAGE>   19

                 (a)      With respect to an Interest Determination Date
         relating to a LIBOR Note or any Floating Rate Note for which the
         interest rate is determined with reference to LIBOR (a "LIBOR Interest
         Determination Date"), LIBOR will be, as specified in the applicable
         Note, either: (i) the rate for deposits in U.S. dollars having the
         Index Maturity designated in the applicable Note, commencing on the
         second London Business Day immediately following that LIBOR Interest
         Determination Date, that appears on the Telerate Page 3750, as of
         11:00 A.M., London time, on that LIBOR Interest Determination Date
         ("LIBOR Telerate"), or (ii) the arithmetic mean of the offered rates
         for deposits in U.S. dollars having the Index Maturity designated in
         the applicable Note, commencing on the second London Business Day
         immediately following that LIBOR Interest Determination Date, that
         appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page as of 11:00 A.M., London time,
         on that LIBOR Interest Determination Date, if at least two such
         offered rates appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page ("LIBOR
         Reuters").  "Telerate Page 3750" means the display designated as page
         "3750" on the Telerate Service (or such other page as may replace the
         3750 page on that service or such other services as may be nominated
         by the British Bankers' Association for the purpose of displaying
         London interbank offered rates for U.S. dollar deposits).  "Reuters
         Screen LIBO Page" means the display designated as page "LIBO" on the
         Reuters Monitor Money Rates Service (or such other page as may replace
         the LIBO page on that service for the purpose of displaying London
         interbank offered rates of major banks).  If neither LIBOR Telerate
         nor LIBOR Reuters is specified in the applicable Note, LIBOR will be
         determined as if LIBOR Telerate had been specified.  If no rate
         appears on the Telerate Page 3750, or if fewer than two offered rates
         appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page, as applicable, LIBOR in
         respect of that LIBOR Interest Determination Date will be determined
         as if the parties had specified the rate described in (b) below.

                 (b)      With respect to a LIBOR Interest Determination Date
         on which no rate appears on Telerate Page 3750, as specified in (a)(i)
         above, or on which fewer than two offered rates appear on the Reuters
         Screen LIBO Page, as specified in (a)(ii) above, as applicable, LIBOR
         will be determined on the basis of the rates at which deposits in U.S.
         dollars having the Index Maturity designated in the applicable Note
         are offered at approximately 11:00 A.M., London time, on that LIBOR
         Interest Determination Date by four major banks in the London
         interbank market selected by the Calculation Agent ("Reference Banks")
         to prime banks in the London interbank market commencing on the second
         London Business Day immediately following that LIBOR Interest
         Determination Date and in a principal amount equal to an amount of not
         less than $1,000,000 that is representative for a single transaction
         in such market at such time.  The Calculation Agent will request the
         principal London office of each of the Reference Banks to provide a
         quotation of its rate.  If at least two such quotations are provided,
         LIBOR in respect of that LIBOR Interest Determination Date will be the
         arithmetic mean of such quotations.  If fewer than two quotations are
         provided, LIBOR in respect of that LIBOR Interest Determination Date
         will be the arithmetic mean of the rates quoted at approximately 11:00
         A.M., New York City time, on that LIBOR Interest Determination Date by
         three major banks in The City of New York selected by the Calculation
         Agent for loans in U.S. dollars to leading European banks having the
         Index Maturity designated in the applicable Note commencing on the
         second London Business Day following that LIBOR Interest Determination
         Date and in a principal amount equal to an amount of not less than
         $1,000,000 that is representative for a single transaction in such
         market at such time; provided, however, that if the banks selected as
         aforesaid by the Calculation Agent are not quoting as mentioned in
         this sentence, LIBOR with respect to such LIBOR Interest Determination
         Date will be the rate of LIBOR in effect on such date.

PRIME RATE.  Prime Rate Notes will bear interest at the rates (calculated with
reference to the Prime Rate and the Spread and/or Spread Multiplier, if any)
specified in such Prime Rate Notes.

         Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, "Prime Rate" means,
with respect to any Interest Determination Date relating to a Prime Rate Note
or any Floating Rate Note for which the interest rate is determined with
reference to the Prime Rate (a "Prime Rate Interest Determination Date"), the
rate on such date as such rate is published in H.15(519) under the heading
"Bank Prime Loan."  If such rate is not published prior to 3:00 P.M., New York
City time, on the related Calculation Date, then the Prime Rate shall be the
arithmetic mean of the rates of interest publicly announced by each bank that
appears on the Reuters Screen USPRIME1 Page (as defined below) as such bank's
prime rate or base lending rate as in effect for such Prime Rate Interest
Determination Date.  If fewer than four such rates appear on the Reuters Screen
USPRIME1 Page for such Prime Rate Interest Determination Date, the Prime Rate
shall be the arithmetic mean of the prime rates quoted on the basis of the
actual number of days in the





                                      19
<PAGE>   20

year divided by a 360-day year as of the close of business on such Prime Rate
Interest Determination Date by four major money center banks in The City of New
York (which may include affiliates of certain of the Agents) selected by the
Calculation Agent.  If fewer than four major money center banks provide such
quotations, the Prime Rate will be determined by the Calculation Agent and will
be the arithmetic mean of four prime rates, quoted on the basis of the actual
number of days in the year divided by a 360-day year, as of the close of
business on such Prime Rate Interest Determination Date as furnished in The
City of New York by the major money center banks, if any, that have provided
quotations and as many substitute banks or trust companies as is necessary in
order to obtain four such prime rate quotations, provided such substitute banks
or trust companies are organized and doing business under the laws of the
United States, or any state thereof, each having total equity capital of at
least U.S. $500 million and being subject to supervision or examination by
federal or state authority, selected by the Calculation Agent to provide such
rate or rates; provided, however, that if the banks or trust companies selected
as aforesaid are not quoting as mentioned in this sentence, the Prime Rate
determined as of such Prime Rate Interest Determination Date shall be the Prime
Rate in effect on such Prime Rate Interest Determination Date.

         "Reuters Screen USPRIME1" means the display designated as page
"USPRIME1" on the Reuters Monitor Money Rates Service (or such other page as
may replace the USPRIME1 page on that service for the purpose of displaying
prime rates or base lending rates of major United States banks).

TREASURY RATE.  Treasury Rate Notes will bear interest at the rates
(calculated with reference to the Treasury Rate and the Spread and/or Spread
Multiplier, if any) specified in such Treasury Rate Notes.

         Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, "Treasury Rate"
means, with respect to any Interest Determination Date relating to a Treasury
Rate Note or any Floating Rate Note for which the interest rate is determined
by reference to the Treasury Rate (a "Treasury Rate Interest Determination
Date"), the rate applicable to the most recent auction of direct obligations of
the United States ("Treasury Bills") having the Index Maturity specified in the
applicable Note, as such rate is published in H.15(519) under the heading
"Treasury Bills -- auction average (investment)" or, if not published by 3:00
P.M., New York City time, on the related Calculation Date, the auction average
rate (expressed as a bond equivalent on the basis of a year of 365 or 366 days,
as applicable, and applied on a daily basis) as otherwise announced by the
United States Department of the Treasury.  In the event that the results of the
auction of Treasury Bills having the Index Maturity designated in the
applicable Note are not reported as provided by 3:00 P.M., New York City time,
on such Calculation Date, or if no such auction is held in a particular week,
then the Treasury Rate will be calculated by the Calculation Agent and will be
a yield to maturity (expressed as a bond equivalent on the basis of a year of
365 or 366 days, as applicable, and applied on a daily basis) of the arithmetic
mean of the secondary market bid rates, as of approximately 3:30 P.M., New York
City time, on such Treasury Rate Interest Determination Date, of three leading
primary United States government securities dealers (which may include one or
more of the Agents or their respective affiliates) selected by the Calculation
Agent, for the issue of Treasury Bills with a remaining maturity closest to the
Index Maturity designated in the applicable Note; provided, however, that if
any of the dealers selected as aforesaid by the Calculation Agent are not
quoting as mentioned in this sentence, the Treasury Rate determined as of such
Treasury Rate Interest Determination Date shall be the Treasury Rate in effect
on such Treasury Rate Interest Determination Date.

ORIGINAL ISSUE DISCOUNT NOTES

         Notes may be issued at a price less than their redemption price at
Maturity ("Original Issue Discount Notes").  Such Original Issue Discount Notes
may currently pay no interest or interest at a rate which at the time of
issuance is below market rates.  Certain additional considerations relating to
any Original Issue Discount Notes may be described in the Note relating
thereto.  In addition, some Original Issue Discount Notes may be treated as if
they were issued with original issue discount for Federal income tax purposes
("Discount Notes"). See "Certain United States Federal Income Tax
Considerations" for a discussion of the federal income tax treatment of
Discount Notes.

FOREIGN CURRENCY NOTES

         Unless otherwise specified in an applicable Note, the Notes will be
denominated in U.S. dollars and payments of principal of, premium, if any, and
interest on, the Notes will be made in U.S. dollars.  Notes may be denominated
in a currency, including a composite currency, other than U.S. dollars
("Foreign Currency Notes").  Special





                                      20
<PAGE>   21

provisions relating to Foreign Currency Notes will be described in the
applicable Note and the Pricing Supplement relating thereto.

         An investment in Foreign Currency Notes entails significant risks that
are not associated with similar investments in debt securities that are
denominated in U.S. dollars and the payments with respect to which are made in
U.S. dollars.  Foreign Currency Notes are not an appropriate investment for
investors who are unsophisticated with respect to foreign currency
transactions.  Prospective investors should consult their own financial and
legal advisors as to the risks entailed by an investment in Foreign Currency
Notes and the suitability of Foreign Currency Notes in light of their
particular circumstances.

INDEXED NOTES

         The Notes may be issued with the amount of principal, premium, if any,
or interest payable in respect thereof to be determined with reference to the
price or prices of specified commodities or stocks or other securities, the
exchange rate of one or more specified currencies (including a composite
currency such as the ECU) relative to an indexed currency or such other price,
exchange rate or interest index ("Indexed Notes"), as set forth in the
applicable Note.  In certain cases, holders of Indexed Notes may receive a
principal amount at Maturity that is greater than or less than the face amount
of the Notes depending upon the relative value at Maturity of the specified
indexed item.  Information as to the method for determining the amount of
principal, premium, if any, or interest payable in respect of Indexed Notes,
certain historical information with respect to the specified indexed item and
tax considerations associated with investment in such Indexed Notes may be set
forth in the applicable Pricing Supplement.

         An investment in Notes indexed, as to principal, premium, if any, or
interest, to one or more values of currencies (including exchange rates between
currencies), commodities, securities or interest rate indices entails
significant risks that are not associated with similar investments in a
conventional fixed-rate debt security.  If the interest rate of an Indexed Note
is so indexed, it may result in an interest rate that is less than that payable
on a conventional fixed-rate debt security issued at the same time, including
the possibility that no interest will be paid, and, if the principal of and/or
premium, if any, on an Indexed Note is so indexed, the amount of principal
payable in respect thereof may be less than the original purchase price of such
Indexed Note if allowed pursuant to the terms thereof, including the
possibility that no such amount will be paid.  The secondary market for Indexed
Notes will be affected by a number of factors, independent of the
creditworthiness of the Bank and the value of the applicable currency,
commodity, security or interest rate index, including the volatility of the
applicable currency, commodity, security or interest rate index, the time
remaining to the maturity of such Notes, the amount outstanding of such Notes
and market interest rates.  The value of the applicable currency, commodity or
interest rate index depends on a number of interrelated factors, including
economic, financial and political events, over which the Bank has no control.
Additionally, if the formula used to determine the amount of principal,
premium, if any, or interest payable with respect to Indexed Notes contains a
multiple or leverage factor, the effect of any change in the applicable
currency, commodity, security or interest rate index will be increased.  The
historical experience of the relevant currencies, commodities, securities or
interest rate indices should not be taken as an indication of future
performance of such currencies, commodities, securities or interest rate
indices during the term of any Indexed Note.  Any credit ratings assigned to
the Bank's Bank Note Program are a reflection of the Bank's credit status and
in no way are a reflection of the potential impact of the factors discussed
above, or any other factors, on the market value of the Notes.  Accordingly,
prospective investors should consult their own financial and legal advisors as
to the risks entailed by an investment in Indexed Notes and the suitability of
Indexed Notes in light of their particular circumstances.

REDEMPTION AT THE OPTION OF THE BANK

         The Notes will not be subject to any sinking fund.  If so agreed upon
by the Bank and the purchaser thereof, a Note will be redeemable on and after a
date fixed at the time of sale and specified on the face of such Note (the
"Initial Redemption Date") either in whole or in part, at the option of the
Bank, on written notice given not more than 60 nor less than 30 calendar days
prior to the date of redemption by the Bank to the registered holder thereof
(unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note).  On and after the Initial
Redemption Date, if any, such Note will be redeemable in increments of $1,000
(provided that any remaining principal amount of such Note shall be at least
$250,000) at the option of the Bank at the applicable Redemption Price,
together with unpaid interest accrued thereon at the applicable rate borne by
such Note to the date of redemption.  The "Redemption Price" will initially be
the





                                      21
<PAGE>   22

Initial Redemption Percentage (as specified on the face of a Note) of the
principal amount of such Note to be redeemed and will decline at each
anniversary of the Initial Redemption Date by the Annual Redemption Percentage
Reduction (as specified on the face of such Note), if any, of the principal
amount to be redeemed until the Redemption Price is 100% of such principal
amount.  Whenever less than all the Notes at any time outstanding are to be
redeemed, the terms of the Notes to be so redeemed shall be selected by the
Bank.  If less than all the Notes with identical terms at any time outstanding
are to be redeemed, the Notes to be so redeemed shall be selected by the
Issuing and Paying Agent by lot or in any usual manner approved by it.  If no
Initial Redemption Date is specified on the face of a Note, such Note will not
be redeemable prior to its Stated Maturity Date.  The Issuing and Paying Agent
is not required to register the transfer of any Note that has been called for
redemption during a period beginning at the opening of business 15 calendar
days before the day of mailing of a notice of such redemption and ending at the
close of business on the day of such mailing.

REPAYMENT AT THE OPTION OF THE HOLDER

         The Notes may be subject to repayment at the option of the holders
thereof in accordance with the terms of the Notes on their respective optional
repayment dates, if any, as agreed upon by the Bank and the purchasers thereof
at the time of sale and specified in the applicable Note (each, a "Holder's
Optional Repayment Date").  If no Holder's Optional Repayment Date is specified
in a Note, such Note will not be repayable at the option of the holder thereof
prior to its Stated Maturity Date.  On any Holder's Optional Repayment Date
with respect to a Note, such Note will be repayable in whole or in part in
increments of $1,000 (provided that any remaining principal amount of such Note
will be at least $250,000) at the option of the holder thereof at a repayment
price equal to 100% of the principal amount to be repaid, together with accrued
and unpaid interest thereon payable to the date of repayment, on written notice
given not more than 60 nor less than 30 calendar days prior to the Holder's
Optional Repayment Date (unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note).

OTHER PROVISIONS; ADDENDA

         Any provisions with respect to a Note, including the determination of
an Interest Rate Basis, the specification of an Interest Rate Basis,
calculation of the interest rate applicable to a Floating Rate Note, its
Interest Payment Dates or any other matter relating thereto may be modified by
the terms as specified under "Other Provisions" in the applicable Note or in an
Addendum relating thereto, if so specified therein.

BOOK-ENTRY REGISTRATION

         Upon issuance, all DTC Book-Entry Notes of like tenor and having the
same Issue Date will be represented by one or more Global Notes.  Each Global
Note representing DTC Book-Entry Notes will be deposited with, or on behalf of,
the Depositary, located in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York, and
will be registered in the name of the Depositary or its nominee.

         Ownership of DTC Book-Entry Notes will be limited to institutions that
have accounts with such Depositary or its nominee (each, a "participant" and
collectively, the "participants") or persons that may hold interests through
participants.  In addition, ownership of DTC Book-Entry Notes by participants
will only be evidenced by, and transfers of such ownership interest will be
effected only through, records maintained by the Depositary or its nominee, and
its participants.  Ownership of DTC Book-Entry Notes by persons that hold
through participants will only be evidenced by, and transfers of such ownership
interest within such participants will be effected only through, records
maintained by such participants.

         The laws of some jurisdictions require that certain purchasers of
securities take physical delivery of such securities in definitive form.  Such
laws may impair the ability of a holder to transfer DTC Book-Entry Notes.

         The Bank has been advised by the Depositary that upon the issuance of
a Global Note or Global Notes representing DTC Book-Entry Notes, and the
deposit of such Global Note or Global Notes with or on behalf of the
Depositary, the Depositary will immediately credit, on its book-entry
registration and transfer system, the respective principal amounts of the DTC
Book-Entry Notes represented by such Global Note or Global Notes to the
accounts





                                      22
<PAGE>   23

of participants.  The accounts to be credited will be designated by the
soliciting Agent, or by the Bank if the Notes are offered and sold directly by
the Bank.

         Each owner of a beneficial interest in a Global Note must be an
institutional accredited investor and is required to hold a beneficial interest
in $250,000 principal amount or any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess
thereof of such Global Note at all times.

         Payments of principal of, premium, if any, and interest on, DTC
Book-Entry Notes represented by any Global Note or Global Notes registered in
the name of or held by the Depositary or its nominee will be made to the
Depositary or its nominee, as the case may be, as the registered owner and
holder of the Global Note or Global Notes representing such DTC Book-Entry
Notes.  Such payments to the Depositary or its nominee, as the case may be,
will be made in immediately available funds by the Issuing and Paying Agent;
provided that, in the case of payments of principal, premium, if any, and
interest at Maturity, the Global Note or Global Notes are presented to the
Issuing and Paying Agent in time for the Issuing and Paying Agent to make such
payments in such funds in accordance with its normal procedures.  Neither the
Bank nor any agent of the Bank will have any responsibility or liability for
any aspect of the Depositary's records or any participant's records relating
to, or payments made on account of, DTC Book-Entry Notes or for maintaining,
supervising or reviewing any of the Depositary's records or any participant's
records relating to such DTC Book-Entry Notes.

         The Bank has been advised by the Depositary that upon receipt of any
payment of principal of, premium, if any, or interest on, a Global Note, the
Depositary will credit, on its book-entry registration and transfer system, in
accordance with the Depositary's practice at the time, accounts of participants
with payments in amounts proportionate to their respective beneficial interests
in the principal amount of such Global Note as shown on the records of the
Depositary unless the Depositary has reason to believe that it will not receive
payment on such date.  Payments by participants (or by other persons that hold
interests for customers through participants) to owners of DTC Book-Entry Notes
held through such participants (or such other persons) will be governed by
standing instructions and customary practices, as is now the case with
securities held for the accounts of customers registered in "street name," and
will be the responsibility of such participants (or such other persons).

         No Global Note or Global Notes described above may be transferred
except as a whole by the Depositary for such Global Note or Global Notes to a
nominee of the Depositary or by a nominee of the Depositary to another nominee
of the Depositary.

         DTC Book-Entry Notes represented by a Global Note are exchangeable for
definitive Notes in registered form, of like tenor and of an equal aggregate
principal amount, only if (x) the Depositary notifies the Bank that it is
unwilling or unable to continue as Depositary for such Global Note or if at any
time the Depositary ceases to be a clearing agency registered under the
Exchange Act, and a successor depositary is not appointed by the Bank within 60
days, or (y) the Bank in its sole discretion determines not to have such DTC
Book-Entry Notes represented by one or more Global Notes.  Any Global Note
representing DTC Book-Entry Notes that is exchangeable pursuant to the
preceding sentence shall be exchangeable in whole for definitive Notes in
registered form, of like tenor and of an equal aggregate principal amount, in
minimum denominations of $250,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess
thereof.  Such definitive Notes shall be registered in the name or names of
such person or persons as the Depositary shall instruct the Issuing and Paying
Agent.  It is expected that such instructions may be based upon directions
received by the Depositary from its participants with respect to ownership of
DTC Book-Entry Notes.

         Except as provided above, owners of DTC Book-Entry Notes will not be
entitled to receive physical delivery of Notes in definitive form and no Global
Note representing DTC Book-Entry Notes shall be exchangeable, except for
another Global Note of like denomination and tenor to be registered in the name
of the Depositary or its nominee.  Accordingly, each person owning a DTC
Book-Entry Note must rely on the procedures of the Depositary and, if such
person is not a participant, on the procedures of the participant through which
such person owns its beneficial interest, to exercise any rights of a holder
under the Notes.  The Bank understands that, under existing industry practices,
in the event that (i) the Bank requests any action of holders or (ii) an owner
of a DTC Book-Entry Note desires to give or take any action which a holder is
entitled to give or take under the Notes in accordance with the terms of the
Notes and the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement, the Depositary would
authorize the participants owning the relevant DTC Book-Entry Notes to give or
take such action, and such participants would authorize beneficial owners
owning





                                      23
<PAGE>   24

through such participants to give or take such action or would otherwise act
upon the instructions of beneficial owners owning through them.

         The Depositary has advised the Bank that the Depositary is a
limited-purpose trust company organized under the New York Banking Law, a
"banking organization" within the meaning of the New York Banking Law, a member
of the Federal Reserve System, a "clearing corporation" within the meaning of
the New York Uniform Commercial Code and a "clearing agency" registered
pursuant to the provisions of Section 17A of the Exchange Act.  The Depositary
holds securities that its participants deposit with the Depositary.  The
Depositary also facilitates the settlement among participants of securities
transactions, such as transfers and pledges, in deposited securities through
electronic computerized book- entry changes in participants' accounts, thereby
eliminating the need for physical movement of securities certificates.
Participants who maintain accounts directly with the Depositary include
securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations
and certain other organizations ("direct participants").  The Depositary is
owned by a number of its direct participants and by the New York Stock
Exchange, Inc., the American Stock Exchange, Inc. and the National Association
of Securities Dealers, Inc.  Access to the Depositary system is also available
to others such as securities brokers and dealers, banks and trust companies
that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a direct
participant, either directly or indirectly.  The rules applicable to the
Depositary and its participants are on file with the Commission.

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

         The following will be "Events of Default" with respect to a Note as
the same are described with greater particularity in the Note: default in the
payment of any interest with respect to any of the Notes when due, which
continues for 30 calendar days; default in the payment of any principal of, or
premium, if any, on, any of the Notes when due; and certain events of
bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or the appointment of a conservator,
receiver or liquidator of the Bank or substantially all of its property.  Any
holder of a Note may declare the principal amount of, accrued interest and
premium, if any, on, such Note due and payable immediately by written notice to
the Bank, if an Event of Default with respect to such Note shall have occurred
and be continuing at the time of such declaration.  Upon such declaration and
notice, such principal amount, accrued interest and premium, if any, shall
become immediately due and payable.  Any Event of Default with respect to a
Note may be waived by the holder of such Note.

         Although the Notes permit any holder of a Note to accelerate the Note
in the event of the appointment of a conservator, receiver or liquidator of the
Bank, the FDIC as conservator or receiver may enforce most types of contracts
including the Notes, pursuant to their terms, notwithstanding any such
acceleration provision.  See "Supervision, Regulation and Other Matters."

GOVERNING LAW

         The Notes will be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the
laws of the State of New York and all applicable Federal laws and regulations.


           CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS

         The following summary of certain United States Federal income tax
consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the Notes is based
upon laws, regulations, rulings and decisions now in effect, all of which are
subject to change (including changes in effective dates) or possible differing
interpretations.  It deals only with Notes held as capital assets and does not
purport to deal with persons in special tax situations, such as financial
institutions, insurance companies, regulated investment companies, dealers in
securities or currencies, persons holding Notes as a hedge against currency
risks or as a position in a "straddle" for tax purposes, or persons whose
functional currency is not the U.S. dollar.  It also does not deal with holders
other than original purchasers (except where otherwise specifically noted).
Persons considering the purchase of the Notes should consult their own tax
advisors concerning the application of United States Federal income tax laws to
their particular situations as well as any consequences of the purchase,
ownership and disposition of the Notes arising under the laws of any other
taxing jurisdiction.





                                      24
<PAGE>   25

         As used herein, the term "U.S. Holder" means a beneficial owner of a
Note that is for United States Federal income tax purposes (i) a citizen or
resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation, partnership or other entity
created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or of any
political subdivision thereof, (iii) an estate or trust the income of which is
subject to United States Federal income taxation regardless of its source or
(iv) any other person whose income or gain in respect of a Note is effectively
connected with the conduct of a United States trade or business.  As used
herein, the term "non-U.S. Holder" means a beneficial owner of a Note that is
not a U.S.  Holder.

U.S. HOLDERS

PAYMENTS OF INTEREST.  Payments of interest on a Note generally will be taxable
to a U.S. Holder as ordinary interest income at the time such payments are
accrued or are received (in accordance with the U.S. Holder's regular method of
tax accounting).

ORIGINAL ISSUE DISCOUNT.  The following summary is a general discussion of the
United States Federal income tax consequences to U.S. Holders of the purchase,
ownership and disposition of Notes issued with original issue discount
("Discount Notes").  The following summary is based upon final Treasury
regulations (the "OID Regulations") released by the Internal Revenue Service
("IRS") on January 27, 1994, as amended on June 11, 1996, under the original
issue discount provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
"Code").

         For United States Federal income tax purposes, original issue discount
is the excess of the stated redemption price at maturity of a Note over its
issue price, if such excess equals or exceeds a de minimis amount (generally
1/4 of 1% of the Note's stated redemption price at maturity multiplied by the
number of complete years to its maturity from its issue date or, in the case of
a Note providing for the payment of any amount other than qualified stated
interest (as defined below) prior to maturity, multiplied by the weighted
average maturity of such Note).  The issue price of each Note in an issue of
Notes equals the first price at which a substantial amount of such Notes has
been sold (ignoring sales to bond houses, brokers or similar persons or
organizations acting in the capacity of underwriters, placement agents or
wholesalers).  The stated redemption price at maturity of a Note is the sum of
all payments provided by the Note other than "qualified stated interest"
payments.  The term "qualified stated interest" generally means stated interest
that is unconditionally payable in cash or property (other than debt
instruments of the issuer) at least annually at a single fixed rate.  In
addition, under the OID Regulations, if a Note bears interest for one or more
accrual periods at a rate below the rate applicable for the remaining term of
such Note (e.g., Notes with teaser rates or interest holidays), and if the
greater of either the resulting foregone interest on such Note or any "true"
discount on such Note (i.e., the excess of the Note's stated principal amount
over its issue price) equals or exceeds a specified de minimis amount, then the
stated interest on the Note would be treated as original issue discount rather
than qualified stated interest.

         Payments of qualified stated interest on a Note are taxable to a U.S.
Holder as ordinary interest income at the time such payments are accrued or are
received (in accordance with the U.S. Holder's regular method of tax
accounting).  A U.S. Holder of a Discount Note must include original issue
discount in income as ordinary interest for United States Federal income tax
purposes as it accrues under a constant yield method in advance of receipt of
the cash payments attributable to such income, regardless of such U.S. Holder's
regular method of tax accounting.  In general, the amount of original issue
discount included in income by the initial U.S. Holder of a Discount Note is
the sum of the daily portions of original issue discount with respect to such
Discount Note for each day during the taxable year (or portion of the taxable
year) on which such U.S. Holder held such Discount Note.  The "daily portion"
of original issue discount on any Discount Note is determined by allocating to
each day in any accrual period a ratable portion of the original issue discount
allocable to that accrual period.  An "accrual period" may be of any length and
the accrual periods may vary in length over the term of the Discount Note,
provided that each accrual period is no longer than one year and each scheduled
payment of principal or interest occurs either on the final day of an accrual
period or on the first day of an accrual period.  The amount of original issue
discount allocable to each accrual period is generally equal to the difference
between (i) the product of the Discount Note's adjusted issue price at the
beginning of such accrual period and its yield to maturity (determined on the
basis of compounding at the close of each accrual period and appropriately
adjusted to take into account the length of the particular accrual period) and
(ii) the amount of any qualified stated interest payments allocable to such
accrual period.  The "adjusted issue price" of a Discount Note at the beginning
of any accrual period is the sum of the issue price of the Discount Note plus
the amount of





                                      25
<PAGE>   26

original issue discount allocable to all prior accrual periods minus the amount
of any prior payments on the Discount Note that were not qualified stated
interest payments.  Under these rules, U.S. Holders generally will have to
include in income increasingly greater amounts of original issue discount in
successive accrual periods.

         A U.S. Holder who purchases a Discount Note for an amount that is
greater than its adjusted issue price as of the purchase date and less than or
equal to the sum of all amounts payable on the Discount Note after the purchase
date other than payments of qualified stated interest, will be considered to
have purchased the Discount Note at an "acquisition premium." Under the
acquisition premium rules, the amount of original issue discount which such
U.S. Holder must include in its gross income with respect to such Discount Note
for any taxable year (or portion thereof in which the U.S. Holder holds the
Discount Note) will be reduced (but not below zero) by the portion of the
acquisition premium properly allocable to the period.

         Under the OID Regulations, Floating Rate Notes and Indexed Notes
("Variable Notes") are subject to special rules whereby a Variable Note will
qualify as a "variable rate debt instrument" if (a) its issue price does not
exceed the total noncontingent principal payments due under the Variable Note
by more than a specified de minimis amount and (b) it provides for stated
interest, paid or compounded at least annually, at current values of (i) one or
more qualified floating rates, (ii) a single fixed rate and one or more
qualified floating rates, (iii) a single objective rate, or (iv) a single fixed
rate and a single objective rate that is a qualified inverse floating rate.

         A "qualified floating rate" is any variable rate where variations in
the value of such rate can reasonably be expected to measure contemporaneous
variations in the cost of newly borrowed funds in the currency in which the
Variable Note is denominated.  Although a multiple of a qualified floating rate
will generally not itself constitute a qualified floating rate, a variable rate
equal to the product of a qualified floating rate and a fixed multiple that is
greater than .65 but not more than 1.35 will constitute a qualified floating
rate.  A variable rate equal to the product of a qualified floating rate and a
fixed multiple that is greater than .65 but not more than 1.35, increased or
decreased by a fixed rate, will also constitute a qualified floating rate.  In
addition, under the OID Regulations, two or more qualified floating rates that
can reasonably be expected to have approximately the same values throughout the
term of the Variable Note (e.g., two or more qualified floating rates with
values within 25 basis points of each other as determined on the Variable
Note's issue date) will be treated as a single qualified floating rate.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, a variable rate that would otherwise constitute
a qualified floating rate but which is subject to one or more restrictions such
as a maximum numerical limitation (i.e., a cap) or a minimum numerical
limitation (i.e., a floor) may, under certain circumstances, fail to be treated
as a qualified floating rate under the OID Regulations unless such cap or floor
is fixed throughout the term of the Note.  An "objective rate" is a rate that
is not itself a qualified floating rate but which is determined using a single
fixed formula and that is based on objective financial or economic information.
A rate will not qualify as an objective rate if it is based on information that
is within the control of the issuer (or a related party) or that is unique to
the circumstances of the issuer (or a related party) such as dividends,
profits, or the value of the issuer's stock (although a rate does not fail to
be an objective rate merely because it is based on the credit quality of the
issuer).  A "qualified inverse floating rate" is any objective rate which is
equal to a fixed rate minus a qualified floating rate, as long as variations in
the rate can reasonably be expected to inversely reflect contemporaneous
variations in the qualified floating rate.  The OID Regulations also provide
that if a Variable Note provides for stated interest at a fixed rate for an
initial period of one year or less followed by a variable rate that is either a
qualified floating rate or an objective rate and if the variable rate on the
Variable Note's issue date is intended to approximate the fixed rate (e.g., the
value of the variable rate on the issue date does not differ from the value of
the fixed rate by more than 25 basis points), then the fixed rate and the
variable rate together will constitute either a single qualified floating rate
or objective rate, as the case may be.

         If a Variable Note that provides for stated interest at either a
single qualified floating rate or a single objective rate throughout the term
thereof qualifies as a "variable rate debt instrument" under the OID
Regulations, and if the interest on such Note is unconditionally payable in
cash or property (other than debt instruments of the issuer) at least annually
then all stated interest on such Note will constitute qualified stated interest
and will be taxed accordingly.  Thus, a Variable Note that provides for stated
interest at either a single qualified floating rate or a single objective rate
throughout the term thereof and that qualifies as a "variable rate debt
instrument" under the OID Regulations will generally not be treated as having
been issued with original issue discount unless the Variable Note is issued at
a "true" discount (i.e., at a price below the Note's stated principal amount)
in excess of a specified de minimis amount.  The amount of qualified stated
interest and the amount of original issue discount, if any, that accrues during
an accrual





                                      26
<PAGE>   27

period on such a Variable Note is determined under the rules applicable to
fixed rate debt instruments by assuming that the variable rate is a fixed rate
equal to (i) in the case of a qualified floating rate or qualified inverse
floating rate, the value, as of the issue date, of the qualified floating rate
or qualified inverse floating rate, or (ii) in the case of an objective rate
(other than a qualified inverse floating rate), a fixed rate that reflects the
yield that is reasonably expected for the Variable Note.  The qualified stated
interest allocable to an accrual period is increased (or decreased) if the
interest actually paid during an accrual period exceeds (or is less than) the
interest assumed to be paid during the accrual period pursuant to the foregoing
rules.

         In general, any other Variable Note that qualifies as a "variable rate
debt instrument" will be converted into an "equivalent" fixed rate debt
instrument for purposes of determining the amount and accrual of original issue
discount and qualified stated interest on the Variable Note.  The OID
Regulations generally require that such a Variable Note be converted into an
"equivalent" fixed rate debt instrument by substituting any qualified floating
rate or qualified inverse floating rate provided for under the terms of the
Variable Note with a fixed rate equal to the value of the qualified floating
rate or qualified inverse floating rate, as the case may be, as of the Variable
Note's issue date.  Any objective rate (other than a qualified inverse floating
rate) provided for under the terms of the Variable Note is converted into a
fixed rate that reflects the yield that is reasonably expected for the Variable
Note.  In the case of a Variable Note that qualifies as a "variable rate debt
instrument" and provides for stated interest at a fixed rate in addition to
either one or more qualified floating rates or a qualified inverse floating
rate, the fixed rate is initially converted into a qualified floating rate (or
a qualified inverse floating rate, if the Variable Note provides for a
qualified inverse floating rate).  Under such circumstances, the qualified
floating rate or qualified inverse floating rate that replaces the fixed rate
must be such that the fair market value of the Variable Note as of the Variable
Note's issue date is approximately the same as the fair market value of an
otherwise identical debt instrument that provides for either the qualified
floating rate or qualified inverse floating rate rather than the fixed rate.
Subsequent to converting the fixed rate into either a qualified floating rate
or a qualified inverse floating rate, the Variable Note is then converted into
an "equivalent" fixed rate debt instrument in the manner described above.

         Once the Variable Note is converted into an "equivalent" fixed rate
debt instrument pursuant to the foregoing rules, the amount of original issue
discount and qualified stated interest, if any, are determined for the
"equivalent" fixed rate debt instrument by applying the general original issue
discount rules to the "equivalent" fixed rate debt instrument and a U.S. Holder
of the Variable Note will account for such original issue discount and
qualified stated interest as if the U.S. Holder held the "equivalent" fixed
rate debt instrument.  Each accrual period appropriate adjustments will be made
to the amount of qualified stated interest or original issue discount assumed
to have been accrued or paid with respect to the "equivalent" fixed rate debt
instrument in the event that such amounts differ from the actual amount of
interest accrued or paid on the Variable Note during the accrual period.

         If a Variable Note does not qualify as a "variable rate debt
instrument" under the OID Regulations, then the Variable Note would be treated
as a contingent payment debt obligation.  U.S. Holders should be aware that on
June 11, 1996, the Treasury Department issued final regulations (the "CPDI
Regulations") concerning the proper United States Federal income tax treatment
of contingent payment debt instruments.  In general, the CPDI Regulations would
cause the timing and character of income, gain or loss reported on a contingent
payment debt instrument to substantially differ from the timing and character
of income, gain or loss reported on a contingent payment debt instrument under
general principles of current United States Federal income tax law.
Specifically, the CPDI Regulations generally require a U.S.  Holder of such an
instrument to include future contingent and noncontingent interest payments in
income as such interest accrues based upon a projected payment schedule.
Moreover, in general, under the CPDI Regulations, any gain recognized by a U.S.
Holder on the sale, exchange, or retirement of a contingent payment debt
instrument will be treated as ordinary income and all or a portion of any loss
realized could be treated as ordinary loss as opposed to capital loss
(depending upon the circumstances).  The CPDI Regulations apply to debt
instruments issued on or after August 13, 1996.  The proper United States
Federal income tax treatment of Variable Notes that are treated as contingent
payment debt obligations will be more fully described in the applicable Pricing
Supplement.  Furthermore, any other special United States Federal income tax
considerations, not otherwise discussed herein, which are applicable to any
particular issue of Notes will be discussed in the applicable Pricing
Supplement.

         Certain of the Notes (i) may be redeemable at the option of the Bank
prior to their stated maturity (a "call option") and/or (ii) may be repayable
at the option of the holder prior to their stated maturity (a "put option").
Notes





                                      27
<PAGE>   28

containing such features may be subject to rules that differ from the general
rules discussed above.  Investors intending to purchase Notes with such
features should consult their own tax advisors, since the original issue
discount consequences will depend, in part, on the particular terms and
features of the purchased Notes.

         U.S. Holders may generally, upon election, include in income all
interest (including stated interest, acquisition discount, original issue
discount, de minimis original issue discount, market discount, de minimis
market discount, and unstated interest, as adjusted by any amortizable bond
premium or acquisition premium) that accrues on a debt instrument by using the
constant yield method applicable to original issue discount, subject to certain
limitations and exceptions.

SHORT-TERM BANK NOTES.  Notes that have a fixed maturity of one year or less
will be treated as having been issued with original issue discount.  In
general, an individual or other cash method U.S. Holder is not required to
accrue such original issue discount unless the U.S. Holder elects to do so.  If
such an election is not made, any gain recognized by the U.S. Holder on the
sale, exchange or maturity of the Short-Term Bank Note will be ordinary income
to the extent of the original issue discount accrued on a straight-line basis,
or upon election under the constant yield method (based on daily compounding),
through the date of sale or maturity, and a portion of the deductions otherwise
allowable to the U.S. Holder for interest on borrowings allocable to the
Short-Term Bank Note will be deferred until a corresponding amount of income is
realized.  U.S. Holders who report income for United States Federal income tax
purposes under the accrual method, and certain other holders including banks
and dealers in securities, are required to accrue original issue discount on a
Short-Term Bank Note on a straight-line basis unless an election is made to
accrue the original issue discount under a constant yield method (based on
daily compounding).

MARKET DISCOUNT.  If a U.S. Holder purchases a Note, other than a Discount
Note, for an amount that is less than its issue price (or, in the case of a
subsequent purchaser, its stated redemption price at maturity) or, in the case
of a Discount Note, for an amount that is less than its adjusted issue price as
of the purchase date, such U.S. Holder will be treated as having purchased such
Note at a "market discount," unless the amount of such market discount is less
than a specified de minimis amount.

         Under the market discount rules, a U.S. Holder will be required to
treat any partial principal payment (or, in the case of a Discount Note, any
payment that does not constitute qualified stated interest) on, or any gain
realized on the sale, exchange, retirement or other disposition of, a Note as
ordinary income to the extent of the lesser of (i) the amount of such payment
or realized gain or (ii) the market discount which has not previously been
included in income and is treated as having accrued on such Note at the time of
such payment or disposition.  Market discount will be considered to accrue
ratably during the period from the date of acquisition to the maturity date of
the Note, unless the U.S. Holder elects to accrue market discount on the basis
of semiannual compounding.

         A U.S. Holder may be required to defer the deduction of all or a
portion of the interest paid or accrued on any indebtedness incurred or
maintained to purchase or carry a Note with market discount until the maturity
of the Note or certain earlier dispositions, because a current deduction is
only allowed to the extent the interest expense exceeds an allocable portion of
market discount.  A U.S. Holder may elect to include market discount in income
currently as it accrues (on either a ratable or semiannual compounding basis),
in which case the rules described above regarding the treatment as ordinary
income of gain upon the disposition of the Note and upon the receipt of certain
cash payments and regarding the deferral of interest deductions will not apply.
Generally, such currently included market discount is treated as ordinary
interest for United States Federal income tax purposes.  Such an election will
apply to all debt instruments acquired by the U.S. Holder on or after the first
day of the first taxable year to which such election applies and may be revoked
only with the consent of the IRS.

PREMIUM.  If a U.S. Holder purchases a Note for an amount that is greater than
the sum of all amounts payable on such Note after the purchase date other than
payments of qualified stated interest, such U.S. Holder will be considered to
have purchased the Note with "amortizable bond premium" equal in amount to such
excess.  A U.S. Holder may elect to amortize such premium using a constant
yield method over the remaining term of the Note and may offset interest
otherwise required to be included in respect of the Note during any taxable
year by the amortized amount of such excess for the taxable year.  However, if
the Note may be optionally redeemed after the U.S. Holder acquires it at a
price in excess of its stated redemption price at maturity, special rules would
apply which could result in a deferral of the amortization of some bond premium
until later in the term of the Note.  Any election to amortize bond





                                      28
<PAGE>   29

premium applies to all taxable debt instruments acquired by the U.S. Holder on
or after the first day of the first taxable year to which such election applies
and may be revoked only with the consent of the IRS.

DISPOSITION OF A NOTE.  Except as discussed above, upon the sale, exchange or
retirement of a Note, a U.S. Holder generally will recognize taxable gain or
loss equal to the difference between the amount realized on the sale, exchange
or retirement (other than amounts representing accrued and unpaid interest) and
such U.S. Holder's adjusted tax basis in the Note.  A U.S. Holder's adjusted
tax basis in a Note generally will equal such U.S. Holder's initial investment
in the Note increased by any original issue discount included in income (and
accrued market discount, if any, if the U.S.  Holder has included such market
discount in income) and decreased by the amount of any payments, other than
qualified stated interest payments, received and amortizable bond premium taken
with respect to such Note.  Such gain or loss generally will be long-term
capital gain or loss if the Note were held for more than one year.

FOREIGN CURRENCY NOTES

         Special tax provisions relating to Foreign Currency Notes will be set
forth in the applicable Note and the Pricing Supplement relating thereto.

NON-U.S. HOLDERS

         A non-U.S. Holder will not be subject to United States Federal income
taxes on payments of principal, premium (if any) or interest (including
original issue discount, if any) on a Note, unless such non-U.S. Holder is a
direct or indirect 10% or greater shareholder of the Bank, a controlled foreign
corporation related to the Bank or a bank receiving interest described in
section 881(c)(3)(A) of the Code.  To qualify for the exemption from taxation,
the last United States payor in the chain of payment prior to payment to a
non-U.S. Holder (the "Withholding Agent") must have received in the year in
which a payment of interest or principal occurs, or in either of the two
preceding calendar years, a statement that (i) is signed by the beneficial
owner of the Note under penalties of perjury, (ii) certifies that such owner is
not a U.S. Holder and (iii) provides the name and address of the beneficial
owner.  The statement may be made on an IRS Form W-8 or a substantially similar
form, and the beneficial owner must inform the Withholding Agent of any change
in the information on the statement within 30 days of such change.  If a Note
is held through a securities clearing organization or certain other financial
institutions, the organization or institution may provide a signed statement to
the Withholding Agent.  However, in such case, the signed statement must be
accompanied by a copy of the IRS Form W-8 or the substitute form provided by
the beneficial owner to the organization or institution.  The Treasury
Department is considering implementation of further certification requirements
aimed at determining whether the issuer of a debt obligation is related to
holders thereof.

         Generally, a non-U.S. Holder will not be subject to Federal income
taxes on any amount which constitutes capital gain upon retirement or
disposition of a Note, provided the gain is not effectively connected with the
conduct of a trade or business in the United States by the non-U.S. Holder.
Certain other exceptions may be applicable, and a non-U.S. Holder should
consult its tax advisor in this regard.

         The Notes will not be includible in the estate of a non-U.S. Holder
unless the individual is a direct or indirect 10% or greater shareholder of the
Bank or, at the time of such individual's death, payments in respect of the
Notes would have been effectively connected with the conduct by such individual
of a trade or business in the United States.

BACKUP WITHHOLDING

         Backup withholding of United States Federal income tax at a rate of
31% may apply to payments made in respect of the Notes to registered owners who
are not "exempt recipients" and who fail to provide certain identifying
information (such as the registered owner's taxpayer identification number) in
the required manner.  Generally, individuals are not exempt recipients, whereas
corporations and certain other entities generally are exempt recipients.
Payments made in respect of the Notes to a U.S. Holder must be reported to the
IRS, unless the U.S. Holder is an exempt recipient or establishes an exemption.
Compliance with the identification procedures described in the preceding
section would establish an exemption from backup withholding for those non-U.S.
Holders who are not exempt recipients.





                                      29
<PAGE>   30

         In addition, upon the sale of a Note to (or through) a broker, the
broker must withhold 31% of the entire purchase price, unless either (i) the
broker determines that the seller is a corporation or other exempt recipient or
(ii) the seller provides, in the required manner, certain identifying
information and, in the case of a non-U.S. Holder, certifies that such seller
is a non-U.S. Holder (and certain other conditions are met).  Such a sale must
also be reported by the broker to the IRS, unless either (i) the broker
determines that the seller is an exempt recipient or (ii) the seller certifies
its non-U.S. status (and certain other conditions are met).  Certification of
the registered owner's non-U.S. status would be made normally on an IRS Form
W-8 under penalties of perjury, although in certain cases it may be possible to
submit other documentary evidence.

         Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a payment
to a beneficial owner would be allowed as a refund or a credit against such
beneficial owner's United States Federal income tax provided the required
information is furnished to the IRS.


                CERTAIN PUERTO RICO INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS

         The following summary of certain Puerto Rico income tax consequences
of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the Notes is based upon laws,
regulations, rulings and decisions now in effect, all of which are subject to
change (including changes in effective dates) or possible differing
interpretations.  It does not purport to deal with all aspects of Puerto Rico
taxation that may be relevant to particular investors, some of whom may be
subject to special rules.  Persons, including corporations or partnerships
organized under the laws of Puerto Rico and foreign corporations engaged in
trade or business in Puerto Rico, considering the purchase of the Notes should
consult their own tax advisors concerning the Puerto Rico income tax
consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the Notes and the
application of the income and withholding tax provisions described below.

         Under the Puerto Rico Internal Revenue Code of 1994, as amended,
interest on Notes received by a Holder who is a foreign corporation or
partnership (i.e., not organized under the laws of Puerto Rico) not engaged in
a trade or business in Puerto Rico or a foreign trust (each, a "Non-resident
Holder") will be exempt from Puerto Rico income and withholding tax, except in
the case of any such Holder that may be regarded as a "related person" with
respect to the Bank.  For this purpose, a "related person" generally will be
one that, directly or indirectly, owns 50% or more in value of the stock of the
Bank.  A Non-resident Holder who is a "related person" would be subject to a
Puerto Rico withholding tax of 29%.  Any gain realized by a Non-resident Holder
from the sale or exchange of Notes outside Puerto Rico will not be subject to
Puerto Rico income taxation.


                             PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

         The Notes are being offered on a continuous basis for sale by the Bank
through Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated, Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. and CS First Boston Corporation, who
will purchase the Notes as principal from the Bank for resale to investors and
other purchasers at varying prices relating to prevailing market prices at the
time of resale as determined by the applicable Agent, or, if so specified in
the applicable Note, for resale at a fixed public offering price.  Unless
otherwise specified in the applicable Note, any Note sold to an Agent as
principal will be purchased by such Agent at a price equal to 100% of the
principal amount thereof less a percentage of the principal amount which shall
be agreed upon by the Agent and the Bank.  If agreed to by the Bank and the
applicable Agent, such Agent may utilize its reasonable efforts on an agency
basis to solicit offers to purchase the Notes at 100% of the principal amount
thereof, unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note.  The Bank will pay
a commission to each Agent, ranging from .05% to .70% of the principal amount
of each Note, depending on its stated maturity, sold by such Agent.

         An Agent may sell Notes it has purchased from the Bank as principal to
other dealers for resale to investors, and may allow any portion of the
discount received in connection with such purchases from the Bank to such
dealers.  After the initial public offering of Notes, the public offering price
(in the case of Notes to be resold on a fixed public offering price basis), the
concession and the discount may be changed.





                                      30
<PAGE>   31

         The Bank has reserved the right to sell Notes directly to investors on
their own behalf in those jurisdictions where they are authorized to do so or
to or through certain firms other than the Agents.  No commission will be
payable nor will a discount be allowed on any sales made directly by the Bank.
The Bank will have the sole right to accept offers to purchase Notes and may
reject any such offer in whole or in part.

         The Bank reserves the right to withdraw, cancel or modify the offer
made hereby without notice and may reject orders in whole or in part whether
placed directly with the Bank or through one of the Agents.  The Agents will
have the right, in their discretion reasonably exercised, to reject in whole or
in part any offer to purchase Notes received by them on an agency basis.

         Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Note, payment of the
purchase price of Notes will be required to be made in immediately available
funds in The City of New York on the date of settlement.

         No Notes will have an established trading market when issued.  The
Notes will not be listed on any securities exchange.  Each of the Agents may
from time to time purchase and sell Notes in the secondary market, but no Agent
is obligated to do so, and there can be no assurance that there will be a
secondary market for the Notes or liquidity in the secondary market if one
develops.  From time to time, each of the Agents may make a market in the
Notes, but no Agent is obligated to do so and an Agent may discontinue any
market-making activity at any time.

         The Notes will be offered only to institutional investors that are
"accredited investors" within the meaning of Rule 501 under the 1933 Act.
Accordingly, each purchaser of a Note will be deemed to have represented and
warranted that it is such an institutional accredited investor, that it is
purchasing the Notes for its own account or for the account of such an
institutional accredited investor and that following such purchase it or such
other institutional accredited investor holding a beneficial interest in a
Global Note will hold such beneficial interest in a principal amount of
$250,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof at all times.

         The Bank has agreed to indemnify the Agents against, and to provide
contribution with respect to, certain liabilities, including liabilities under
the federal securities laws.  The Bank has agreed to reimburse each of the
Agents for certain other expenses.

         Certain of the Agents and their affiliates may be customers of,
including borrowers from, engage in transactions with, and perform services
for, the Bank and the Corporation or their affiliates in the ordinary course of
business.





                                      31
<PAGE>   32

                              VALIDITY OF NOTES

         The validity of the Notes offered hereby and other legal matters will
be passed upon for the Bank and the Corporation by Brunilda Santos de Alvarez,
Esq., Counsel of the Bank and the Corporation and for the Bank by Pietrantoni
Mendez & Alvarez, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico.  Certain legal matters will be passed
upon for the Agents by Brown & Wood LLP, New York, New York.  Brunilda Santos
de Alvarez, Esq. and Pietrantoni Mendez & Alvarez will rely on the opinion of
Brown & Wood LLP as to matters of New York law.





                                      32
<PAGE>   33



<TABLE>
      <S>                                                         <C>
      =================================================           =================================================

      NO DEALER,  SALESPERSON OR ANY  OTHER PERSON  HAS
      BEEN  AUTHORIZED TO  GIVE ANY  INFORMATION OR  TO
      MAKE   ANY  REPRESENTATIONS   OTHER  THAN   THOSE
      CONTAINED IN THIS OFFERING CIRCULAR,  ANY PRICING                             $600,000,000
      SUPPLEMENT  HERETO OR  THE DOCUMENTS  REFERRED TO
      UNDER  "INCORPORATION  OF  CERTAIN  DOCUMENTS  BY                              BANK NOTES
      REFERENCE"   IN   CONNECTION   WITH   THE   OFFER
      CONTAINED  IN  THIS  OFFERING  CIRCULAR  AND  ANY
      PRICING SUPPLEMENT HERETO AND,  IF GIVEN OR MADE,
      SUCH  INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS  MUST NOT BE                     BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO 
      RELIED  UPON  AS HAVING  BEEN  AUTHORIZED  BY THE
      BANK,  THE CORPORATION  OR THE  AGENTS.   NEITHER
      THE  DELIVERY  OF  THIS  OFFERING  CIRCULAR,  ANY
      PRICING  SUPPLEMENT   HERETO  OR   THE  DOCUMENTS                     ----------------------------
      REFERRED  TO  UNDER   "INCORPORATION  OF  CERTAIN
      DOCUMENTS   BY  REFERENCE"  NOR   ANY  SALE  MADE                          OFFERING CIRCULAR
      HEREUNDER SHALL, UNDER  ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, CREATE
      ANY IMPLICATION THAT THERE  HAS BEEN NO CHANGE IN                     ----------------------------
      THE AFFAIRS OF THE  BANK OR THE CORPORATION SINCE
      THE  DATES AS  OF WHICH  INFORMATION IS  GIVEN IN
      THIS OFFERING  CIRCULAR.  THIS  OFFERING CIRCULAR
      AND   ANY  PRICING   SUPPLEMENT  HERETO   DO  NOT
      CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OR  SOLICITATION BY ANYONE IN
      ANY   JURISDICTION  IN   WHICH   SUCH  OFFER   OR                                                  
      SOLICITATION IS NOT  AUTHORIZED OR  IN WHICH  THE                                                  
      PERSON MAKING SUCH OFFER  OR SOLICITATION IS  NOT                                                  
      QUALIFIED TO DO  SO OR TO  ANY PERSON TO  WHOM IT                                                  
      IS UNLAWFUL TO MAKE SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION.                                                    
                                                                                                         
                                                                                                         
                 ---------------------------                                                                                        
                                                                                                         

                      TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                                   PAGE

      Incorporation of Certain Documents
          by Reference  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2                         MERRILL LYNCH & CO. 
      Notice to Investors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4                       BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC. 
      Banco Popular de Puerto Rico  . . . . . . . . . 5                           CS FIRST BOSTON 
      Selected Unaudited Financial Information                                                           
        of the Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6                                                  
      BanPonce Corporation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8                                                  
      Supervision, Regulation and Other Matters . . . 8                                                  
      Use of Proceeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  12                                                  
      Description of Notes  . . . . . . . . . . . .  12                          SEPTEMBER 24, 1996 
      Certain United States Federal Income
          Tax Considerations  . . . . . . . . . . .  25
      Certain Puerto Rico Income Tax
          Considerations  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
      Plan of Distribution  . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
      Validity of Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  32
                                                       
      =================================================           =================================================
</TABLE>
<PAGE>   34
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)



                          Banco Popular de Puerto Rico
                              Bank Notes Due From
                     7 Days to 15 Years from Date of Issue



                             DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT


                                                              September 24, 1996


MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH
                   INCORPORATED
World Financial Center
North Tower, 10th Floor
New York, New York  10281-1310

BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.
245 Park Avenue
New York, New York  10167

CS FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION
55 East 52nd Street
New York, New York  10055


Ladies and Gentlemen:


         Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, a banking corporation chartered under
the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, confirms its agreement with
Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Bear,
Stearns & Co. Inc. and CS First Boston Corporation (each referred to as an
"Agent" and collectively referred to as the "Agents") with respect to (i) the
issue and sale by it of its senior unsecured debt obligations not insured by
the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the "FDIC") with maturities from 7
days to one year from date of issue ("Short-Term Bank Notes") and (ii) the
issue and sale by it of its senior unsecured debt obligations not insured by
the FDIC with maturities of greater than one year to 15 years from date of
issue ("Medium-Term Bank
<PAGE>   35

Notes," and together with the Short-Term Bank Notes, the "Bank Notes").  Banco
Popular de Puerto Rico is referred to herein as the "Bank" with respect to Bank
Notes issued and sold by it hereunder.  The Bank Notes are to be issued
pursuant to an Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement, dated as of September 24,
1996 (the "Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement"), between the Bank and The
Chase Manhattan Bank, as the Issuing and Paying Agent (the "Issuing and Paying
Agent"). As of the date hereof, the Bank has authorized the issuance of up to
$600,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Bank Notes outstanding at any one
time.  It is understood, however, that the Bank may from time to time authorize
the issuance of an additional amount of Bank Notes and that such Bank Notes may
be distributed through or sold to one or more of the Agents pursuant to the
terms of this Agreement, all as though the issuance of such Bank Notes were
authorized as of the date hereof.  The Bank is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
BanPonce Corporation (the "Parent").

         This Agreement provides both for the sale of Bank Notes by the Bank
(i) to the Agents as principal for resale to investors and other purchasers and
for the sale of Bank Notes by the Bank, (ii) directly to investors agented by
the Agents (as may from time to time be agreed to by the Bank and the Agents),
in which case the Agents will act as agents of the Bank in soliciting Bank Note
purchasers and (iii) directly to investors.

SECTION 1.  Appointment as Agents.

         (a)  Appointment of Agents.  Subject to the terms and conditions
stated herein, and subject to the reservation by the Bank of the right to sell
Bank Notes directly to investors on its own behalf in those jurisdictions where
it is authorized to do so, the Bank hereby agrees that Bank Notes will be sold
exclusively to or through the Agents.  The Agents are authorized to engage the
services of any other broker or dealer in connection with the offer or sale of
the Bank Notes purchased by an Agent as principal for resale to others but are
not authorized to appoint sub-agents.  In connection with sales by the Agents
of Bank Notes purchased by an Agent as principal to other brokers or dealers,
an Agent may allow any portion of the discount it has received in connection
with such purchase from the Bank to such brokers or dealers.

         (b)  Sale of Bank Notes.   The Bank shall not approve the solicitation
of purchases of Bank Notes in excess of the amount which shall be authorized to
be issued or outstanding, as the case





                                       2
<PAGE>   36

may be, by the Bank from time to time or in excess of the aggregate principal
amount of Bank Notes specified in the Offering Circular (as such term is
hereinafter defined).  The Agents will have no responsibility for maintaining
records with respect to the aggregate principal amount of Bank Notes sold or
outstanding, or of otherwise monitoring the availability of Bank Notes for
sale.

         (c)  Purchases as Principal.  The Agents shall not have any obligation
to purchase Bank Notes from the Bank as principal, but the Agents may agree
from time to time to purchase Bank Notes as principal.  Any such purchase of
Bank Notes by an Agent as principal shall be made in accordance with Section
3(a) hereof.

         (d)     Solicitations as Agent.  If agreed upon by an Agent and the
Bank, the Agent acting solely as agent for the Bank and not as principal, will
solicit purchases of the Bank Notes.  The Agent will communicate to the Bank,
orally, each offer to purchase Bank Notes solicited by such Agent on an agency
basis, other than those offers rejected by the Agent.  The Agent shall have the
right, in its absolute discretion, to reject any proposed purchase of Bank
Notes, as a whole or in part, and any such rejection shall not be deemed a
breach of any Agent's agreement contained herein.  The Bank may accept or
reject any proposed purchase of the Bank Notes, in its absolute discretion, in
whole or in part and any such rejection shall not be deemed a breach of the
Bank's agreement contained herein.  The Agent shall make reasonable efforts to
assist the Bank in obtaining performance by each purchaser whose offer to
purchase Bank Notes has been solicited by the Agent and accepted by the Bank.
The Agent shall not have any liability to the Bank in the event any such agency
purchase is not consummated for any reason other than a breach by the Agent of
its obligations hereunder.  If the Bank shall default on its obligation to
deliver Bank Notes to a purchaser whose offer it has accepted, the Bank shall
(i) hold the Agent harmless against any loss, claim or damage arising from or
as a result of such default by the Bank and (ii) notwithstanding such default,
pay to the Agent any commission to which it would be entitled in connection
with such sale.

         (e)     Additional Agents.  The Bank may, from time to time, engage
additional agents either as principal or as an agent for the sale of the Bank
Notes.  In the event that the Bank elects to engage such additional agents, the
Bank shall provide advance notice as soon as reasonably possible (which advance
notice may include notice via facsimile) to the Agents then parties to this





                                       3
<PAGE>   37

Agreement.  The engagement of any additional agents shall be on terms and
conditions (including, without limitation, commission rates), substantially
similar to those set forth in this Agreement.

         (f)  Reliance.  The Bank and the Agents agree that any Bank Notes
purchased by the Agents shall be purchased, and any Bank Notes the placement of
which an Agent arranges shall be placed by such Agent, in reliance on the
representations, warranties, covenants and agreements of the Bank contained
herein and on the terms and conditions and in the manner provided herein.

SECTION 2.  Representations and Warranties.

         (a)  The Bank represents and warrants to each Agent as of the date
hereof, as of the date of each acceptance by the Bank of an offer for the
purchase of Bank Notes (whether to the Agent as principal or through the Agent
as agent), as of the date of each delivery of Bank Notes (whether to such Agent
as principal or through such Agent as agent) (the date of each such delivery to
an Agent as principal being hereafter referred to as a "Settlement Date"), and
as of the times the Offering Circular shall be amended or supplemented or there
is filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") or any
bank regulatory agency any document incorporated by reference into the Offering
Circular (each of the times referenced above being referred to hereafter as a
"Representation Date"), as follows:

                 (i)      Offering Circular.  The Bank has prepared an offering
         circular, dated September 24, 1996, to be used by the Agents in
         connection with the Agents' solicitation of purchasers of or offering
         of the Bank Notes.  Such offering circular is referred to herein as
         the "Offering Circular"; provided, however, that if any amendment or
         supplement shall be provided to the Agents for use in connection with
         the offering of the Bank Notes, the term "Offering Circular" shall be
         deemed to refer to and include such amendment or supplement from and
         after the time it is first provided to the Agents for use.  Any
         reference to the Offering Circular shall be deemed to refer to and
         include all documents incorporated by reference therein including the
         Call Reports and the Periodic Reports (as such terms are hereinafter
         defined) incorporated by reference therein, and any reference herein
         to the terms "amend," "amendment" or "supplement" with respect to the
         Offering Circular shall be deemed to include the filing of any





                                       4
<PAGE>   38

         Call Report or Periodic Report with any bank regulatory agency or the
         Commission after the date of this Agreement or the Offering Circular,
         as the case may be.  The Offering Circular, as of the date hereof,
         does not and, as of the applicable Representation Date, will not
         contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a
         material fact necessary in order to make the statements made therein,
         in the light of the circumstances under which they are made, not
         misleading; provided, however, that the representations and warranties
         in this subsection shall not apply to statements in the Offering
         Circular made in reliance upon and in conformity with information
         furnished to the Bank in writing by the Agents expressly for use
         therein.

                 The Bank will incorporate by reference in the Offering
         Circular the publicly available portions of each of its Consolidated
         Reports of Condition and Income (each, a "Call Report"), which the
         Bank has filed with the Federal Reserve Board (which forwards such
         filings to the FDIC), as well as any amendments or supplements
         thereto, beginning with and including the Call Report for the period
         ended December 31, of the third calendar year prior to the date of the
         Offering Circular to and including the most recent Call Report filed
         or published prior to an offering pursuant to the Offering Circular.
         The publicly available portions of any Call Reports filed by the Bank
         subsequent to the date of the Offering Circular and prior to the
         termination of the offering of the Bank Notes will be incorporated
         therein by reference.

                 In addition, the Bank has been authorized by the Parent to
         incorporate by reference in the Offering Circular, and will
         incorporate by reference into the Offering Circular, the Parent's
         annual reports on Form 10- K for its most recently ended fiscal year,
         quarterly reports on Form 10-Q since its most recently ended fiscal
         year, current reports on Form 8-K since its most recently ended fiscal
         year and any other document filed by the Parent with the Commission
         pursuant to Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
         1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), and the rules and regulations
         thereunder (the "Periodic Reports").

                 The documents incorporated by reference into the Offering
         Circular, at the time they were or hereafter are filed with the
         applicable federal regulatory authorities, complied or





                                       5
<PAGE>   39

         when so filed will comply in all material respects with the 1934 Act
         or the rules and regulations otherwise applicable thereto, as the case
         may be and, when read together with the other information in the
         Offering Circular, did not and will not include an untrue statement of
         a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated
         therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light
         of the circumstances in which they were or are made, not misleading.

             (ii)         Due Organization, Valid Existence and Good Standing.
         The Bank is a banking corporation duly organized, validly existing and
         in good standing under the laws of the jurisdic-tion under which it is
         chartered and is licensed, registered or qualified to conduct the
         business in which it is engaged in each jurisdiction in which the
         conduct of its business or its ownership or leasing of property
         requires such license, registration or qualification, except to the
         extent that the failure to be so licensed, registered or qualified or
         to be in good standing would not have a material adverse effect on the
         Bank and its subsidiaries taken as a whole.  The Bank is a
         wholly-owned subsidiary of the Parent, a Puerto Rico corpora-tion
         registered as a bank holding company under the Bank Holding Company
         Act of 1956 which has securities registered under the 1934 Act.

            (iii)         Due Authorization, Execution and Delivery of this
         Agreement, the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement and the Interest
         Calculation Agreement.  This Agreement, the Issuing and
         Paying Agency Agreement and the Interest Calculation Agreement dated
         as of September 24, 1996 (the "Interest Calculation Agreement"),
         between the Bank and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as calculation agent
         (the "Calculation Agent"), and the Short- Term and Medium-Term Letters
         of Representations dated September 23 , 1996 (the "Letters of
         Representations"), among the Bank, the Issuing and Paying Agent and
         The Depository Trust Company have been duly authorized, executed and
         delivered by the Bank and are valid and legally binding agreements of
         the Bank, enforceable against the Bank in accordance with their
         respective terms, subject to applicable bankruptcy, liquidation,
         insolvency, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of general
         applicability relating to, or affecting, creditors' rights and to
         general equity principles.





                                       6
<PAGE>   40


             (iv)         Due Authorization, Execution and Delivery of the Bank
         Notes.  The Bank Notes have been duly authorized and, when issued and
         authenticated against payment of the consideration therefor, the Bank
         Notes will be valid and legally binding obligations of the Bank,
         enforceable against the Bank in accordance with their respective
         terms, subject to applicable bankruptcy, liquidation, insolvency,
         reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of general applicability
         relating to, or affecting, creditors' rights and to general equity
         principles.

                 (v)      Exemption from Registration.  The Bank Notes are
         exempt from registration under Section 3(a)(2) of the Securities Act
         of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), and neither registration of the
         Bank Notes under the 1933 Act nor qualification of an indenture under
         the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended, will be required in
         connection with the offer, sale, issuance or delivery of the Bank
         Notes pursuant to this Agreement or any applicable Terms Agreement (as
         defined in Section 3(a) hereof).

             (vi)         Exemption from Investment Company Act.  The Bank is
         not required to register under the provisions of the Investment
         Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act"), or to
         take any other action with respect to or under the Investment Company
         Act.

            (vii)         No Other Approvals Required.  No consent, approval or
         authorization of or filing with any governmental body or agency is
         required for the performance by the Bank of its obligations under this
         Agreement, the Bank Notes, the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement,
         the Interest Calculation Agreement, the Letters of Representations and
         any applicable Terms Agreement, except such as may be required by the
         securities or Blue Sky laws of the various states in connection with
         the offer and sale of the Bank Notes and except for the waiver of the
         Commissioner of Financial Institutions of Puerto Rico pursuant to
         Section 14(d) of the Puerto Rico Banking Act, which waiver has been
         obtained.

           (viii)         Description of Bank Notes; Compliance with Law.  The
         Bank Notes are substantially in the form heretofore delivered to the
         Agents and conform to the description thereof contained in the
         Offering Circular under the caption "Description of





                                       7
<PAGE>   41

         Notes."  The form of the Bank Notes complies with all applicable 
         provisions of law.

             (ix)         Priority of Bank Notes.  The Bank Notes are unsecured
         and unsubordinated debt obligations of the Bank and rank pari passu
         among themselves and with all other unsecured and unsubordinated debt
         obligations of the Bank except, pursuant to Section 11(d)(11) of the
         Federal Deposit Insurance Act, the Bank's unsecured deposit
         liabilities.

                 (x)      No Violation.  Neither the Bank or any of its
         subsidiaries nor the Parent or any of its subsidiaries is in violation
         of its charter or in default in the performance or observance of any
         material obligation, agreement, covenant or condition contained in any
         contract, indenture, mortgage loan agreement, note, lease or other
         instrument to which it is a party or by which it or any of them or
         their properties may be bound.  The execution, issuance and delivery
         by the Bank of the Bank Notes, and the execution, delivery and
         performance by the Bank of this Agreement, the Issuing and Paying
         Agency Agreement, the Interest Calculation Agreement, the Letters of
         Representations and any applicable Terms Agreement, will not violate
         any law, rule, regulation, order, judgment or decree applicable to the
         Parent and its subsidiaries or to the Bank and its subsidiaries or
         violate any provision of the Bank's charter or by-laws, or conflict
         with or result in a breach of or constitute a default under, or result
         in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon
         any property or assets of the Parent and its subsidiaries or the Bank
         and its subsidiaries (including, but not limited to, Section 14(d) of
         the Banking Act of Puerto Rico) pursuant to any material contract,
         indenture, mortgage loan agreement, note, lease or other instrument to
         which the Parent or any of its subsidiaries or the Bank or any of its
         subsidiaries, or the property of any of them, is bound or subject.

             (xi)         No Material Adverse Change.  Since the respective
         dates as of which information is given in the Offering Circular, (a)
         there has not been any material adverse change in the condition,
         financial or otherwise, or business affairs or business prospects of
         the Bank and its subsidiaries or the Parent and its subsidiaries, as
         the case may be, on a consolidated basis, whether or not arising in
         the ordinary course of business, other than as set forth or
         contemplated in





                                       8
<PAGE>   42

         the Offering Circular (including the material incorporated by
         reference therein), and (b) there have been no material transactions
         entered into by the Bank or any of its subsidiaries or the Parent and
         any of its subsidiaries other than those in the ordinary course of
         business.

            (xii)         Rating.  The Bank Notes of the Bank have been rated
         by a "nationally recognized statistical rating agency" (as that term
         is defined by the Commission for purposes of Rule 436(g)(2) under the
         1933 Act), in one of its four highest categories.

           (xiii)         Financial Statements and Financial Information.  The
         consolidated financial statements and other financial information of
         the Parent and its consolidated subsidiaries included or incorporated
         by reference in the Offering Circular present fairly the consolidated
         financial position of the Parent and its consolidated subsidiaries as
         of the date indicated therein and the consolidated results of their
         operations for the periods specified therein; and except as stated
         therein, such financial statements have been prepared in conformity
         with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States
         applied on a consistent basis; the Call Reports and other financial
         information of the Bank included or incorporated by reference in the
         Offering Circular present fairly the financial position of the Bank
         and the results of operations for the periods specified therein, and
         except as stated therein, have been prepared in conformity with
         regulatory instructions issued by the Federal Financial Institution
         Examination Council applied on a consistent basis; financial
         information of certain financial institutions, if any, proposed to be
         acquired by the Parent and the Bank included or incorporated by
         reference in the Offering Circular present fairly the financial
         position of such financial institutions as of the dates indicated
         therein and the results of their operations for the periods specified
         therein.

            (xiv)         Legal Proceedings.  Except as may be set forth in the
         Offering Circular, there is no action, suit or proceeding before or by
         any court or governmental agency or body, domestic or foreign, now
         pending, or, to the knowledge of the Bank, threatened against or
         affecting, the Parent or any of its subsidiaries or the Bank or any of
         its subsidiaries, which might, in the opinion of the Bank, result in
         any material





                                       9
<PAGE>   43

         adverse change in the condition, financial or otherwise, or in the
         earnings, business affairs or business prospects of the Bank and its
         subsidiaries on a consolidated basis, or might materially and
         adversely affect the properties or assets thereof or might materially
         and adversely affect the consummation of this Agreement, the Issuing
         and Paying Agency Agreement or the Interest Calculation Agreement or
         any transaction contemplated hereby or thereby.

             (xv)         Taxes.  No taxes, withholdings or other charges are
         required to be withheld or deducted under the laws of the Commonwealth
         of Puerto Rico or any political subdivision thereof from any payment
         made by the Bank on the Bank Notes and the Bank Notes are not subject
         to any registration tax, stamp duty or similar tax or duty imposed by
         the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or any political subdivision thereof.

         (b)     Additional Certifications.  Any certificate signed by any
officer of the Bank and delivered to the Agents or to counsel for the Agents in
connection with an offering of Bank Notes, or the sale of Bank Notes to an
Agent as principal, contemplated by this Agreement shall be deemed a
representation and warranty by the Bank to the Agents as to the matters covered
thereby on the date of such certificate and at each Representation Date
referred to in Section 2(a) hereof subsequent thereto.

SECTION 3.  Purchases as Principal; Solicitations as Agents.

         (a)  Purchases as Principal.  Unless otherwise agreed by an Agent and
the Bank, Bank Notes shall be purchased by the Agent as principal.  Such
purchases shall be made in accordance with terms agreed upon by the Agent and
the Bank with respect to such information (as applicable) as is specified in
Exhibit A hereto (a "Terms Agreement") (which terms shall be agreed upon orally
and which may or may not be confirmed in a writing in the form of Exhibit A
prepared by the Agent and mailed or sent via facsimile transmission to the
Bank).  The Agent's commitment to purchase Bank Notes as principal shall be
deemed to have been made on the basis of the representations and warranties of
the Bank herein contained and shall be subject to the terms and conditions
herein set forth.  Unless otherwise negotiated, each purchase of Bank Notes
shall be at a discount from the principal amount of each such Bank Note with
such discount being agreed upon between the Bank and the applicable Agent at
the time of trade.  The Agent may engage the services of





                                       10
<PAGE>   44

any other broker or dealer in connection with the resale of the Bank Notes
purchased as principal and may allow any portion of the discount received in
connection with such purchases from the Bank to such brokers and dealers.  At
the time of each purchase of Bank Notes by an Agent as principal, the Agent
shall specify whether the officers' certificates, opinions of counsel are
required to be delivered pursuant to Sections 8(b) and 8(c) hereof.

         (b)  Solicitations as Agents.  On the basis of the representations and
warranties herein contained, but subject to the terms and conditions herein set
forth, when agreed upon by the Bank and an Agent, such Agent, as an agent of
the Bank, will use its reasonable efforts to solicit offers to purchase the
Bank Notes upon the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Offering
Circular.  All Bank Notes sold through an Agent as agent will be sold at 100%
of their principal amount unless otherwise agreed to by the Bank and the Agent.

         The Bank reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to suspend
solicitation of purchases of the Bank Notes through the Agents, as agents, or
any of them, commencing at any time for any period of time or permanently.
Upon receipt of instructions from the Bank, the Agents will forthwith suspend
solicitation of purchases from the Bank until such time as the Bank has advised
the Agents that such solicitation may be resumed.

         The Bank agrees to pay each Agent a commission, generally in the form
of a discount, equal to the applicable percentage of the principal amount of
each Bank Note sold by the Bank as a result of a solicitation made by such
Agent as set forth in Exhibit B hereto, unless otherwise negotiated.  The
Agents may reallow any portion of the commission payable pursuant hereto to
dealers in connection with the offer and sale of any Bank Notes.

         (c)  Administrative Procedures.  The purchase price, interest rate or
formula, maturity date and other terms of the Bank Notes (as applicable)
specified in Exhibit A hereto shall be agreed upon by the Bank and the
applicable Agent and set forth in a pricing supplement to the Offering Circular
to be prepared in connection with each sale of Bank Notes.   Administrative
procedures with respect to the sale of Bank Notes shall be agreed upon from
time to time by the Agents and the Bank (the "Administrative Procedures").  The
initial Administrative Procedures, as agreed upon by the Agents and the Bank,
are attached hereto as Exhibit G.  The Agents and the





                                       11
<PAGE>   45

Bank agree to perform the respective duties and obligations specifically
provided to be performed by the Agents and the Bank herein and in the
Administrative Procedures.

         (d)  Delivery.  The documents required to be delivered by Section 6
hereof shall be delivered at the office of Brown & Wood LLP, on the date
hereof, or at such other time as the Agents and the Bank may agree upon in
writing (the "Closing Time").

SECTION 4. Covenants of the Bank.

         The Bank covenants with the Agents as follows:

         (a)  Amending Offering Circular.  The Bank will give the Agents notice
of its intention to prepare any additional offering circular supplement with
respect to the sale of the Bank Notes or any amendment or supplement to the
Offering Circular and will furnish the Agents with copies of any such amendment
or supplement or other documents proposed to be distributed a reasonable time
in advance of such proposed distribution and will not distribute any such
amendment or supplement or other documents in a form to which the Agents or
counsel for the Agents shall reasonably object.  The Bank will advise the
Agents (i) of any request by any bank regulatory agency or the Commission for
any amendment of or supplement to the Offering Circular (including, without
limitation, the documents incorporated by reference therein) or for any
additional information; (ii) of the institution or threat by any bank
regulatory agency or the Commission of any proceeding with respect to the
Offering Circular (including, without limitation, the documents incorporated by
reference therein) or any amendment or supplement thereto or the offering or
sale of the Bank Notes, and (iii) of the receipt by the Bank of any
notification with respect to the suspension of the qualification of the Bank
Notes for sale in any jurisdiction or the initiation or threatening of any
proceeding for such purpose.  The Bank will use its reasonable best efforts to
prevent the issuance of any order or similar action interfering with the
offering or sale of the Bank Notes or the use of the Offering Circular, and, if
issued, to obtain as soon as possible the withdrawal thereof.

         (b)  Copies of Offering Circular.  The Bank will deliver to the Agents
as many copies of the Offering Circular (as amended or supplemented, including
documents incorporated by reference





                                       12
<PAGE>   46

therein) as the Agents shall reasonably request in connection with sales or
solicitations of offers to purchase the Bank Notes.

         (c)  Revisions of Offering Circular -- Material Changes.  Except as
otherwise provided in Subsection (d) of this Section 4, if any event shall
occur or condition exist as a result of which it is necessary, in the
reasonable opinion of counsel for the Agents or counsel for the Bank, to amend
or supplement the Offering Circular in order that the Offering Circular will
not include any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact necessary in order to make the statements made therein not misleading in
the light of the circumstances existing at the time it is delivered to a
purchaser, immediate notice shall be given, and confirmed in writing, to the
Agents to cease the solicitation of offers to purchase the Bank Notes in their
capacity as agents and to cease sales of any Bank Notes the Agents may then own
as principal, and the Bank will promptly prepare such amendment or supplement
as may be necessary to correct such untrue statement or omission.  The Agents
shall, at such time as the Bank shall have furnished to the Agents an amended
or supplemented Offering Circular in form satisfactory to the Agents and their
counsel, resume solicitation of offers to purchase Bank Notes using the
Offering Circular so amended and supplemented.

         (d)  Suspension of Certain Obligations.  The Bank shall not be
required to comply with the provisions of Subsection (c) of this Section 4
during any period from the later of the time (i) the Agents shall have
suspended solicitation of purchases of the Bank Notes in their capacity as
agents pursuant to a request from the Bank and (ii) no Agent shall then hold
any Bank Notes purchased as principal pursuant hereto, until the time the Bank
shall determine that solicitation of purchases of the Bank Notes should be
resumed or the Agent shall subsequently purchase Bank Notes from the Bank as
principal.

         (e)  Regulatory Reports.  The Bank shall provide the Agents with
copies of any publicly available reports (financial or otherwise) furnished to
or filed by either the Bank or the Parent with any United States or State
supervisory or regulatory authority as promptly as practicable after such
reports become publicly available.

         (f)     Preparation of Pricing Supplements.  The Bank will prepare,
with respect to any Bank Notes to be sold through or to





                                       13
<PAGE>   47

the Agents pursuant to this Agreement, a pricing supplement with respect to
such Bank Notes in a form previously approved by the Agents.

         (g)  Blue Sky Qualifications.  The Bank will endeavor, in cooperation
with the Agents, to qualify the Bank Notes for offering and sale under the
applicable securities laws of such States and other jurisdictions of the United
States as the Agents and the Bank may designate, and will maintain such
qualifications in effect for as long as may be required for the distribution of
the Bank Notes; provided, however, that the Bank shall not be obligated to file
any general consent to service of process or to qualify as a foreign
corporation in any jurisdiction in which it is not so qualified.  The Bank will
file such statements and reports as may be required by the laws of each
jurisdiction in which the Bank Notes have been qualified as above provided.
The Bank will promptly advise the Agents of the receipt by the Bank of any
notification with respect to the suspension of the qualification of the Bank
Notes for sale in any such State or jurisdiction or the initiating or
threatening of any proceeding for such purpose.

         (h)     Stand-Off Agreement.  In connection with a purchase by an
Agent of Bank Notes as principal, between the date of the agreement to purchase
such Bank Notes and the Settlement Date with respect to such purchase, the Bank
will not, without the prior consent of the Agent who is party to such
agreement, offer or sell in the United States, or enter into any agreement to
sell in the United States, any debt securities or deposit obligations of the
Bank (other than the Bank Notes that are to be sold pursuant to such agreement
and deposit and other bank obligations issued and sold directly by the Bank in
the ordinary course of its business).

SECTION 5.  Payment of Expenses.

         Whether or not the transactions contemplated hereunder are consummated
or this Agreement or any agreement by an Agent to purchase Bank Notes as
principal is terminated, the Bank will pay all reasonable expenses incident to
the performance of their obligations under this Agreement including:  (a) the
preparation, printing and delivery of the Offering Circular and all amendments
and supplements thereto; (b) the preparation of this Agreement; (c) the
preparation, issuance and delivery of the Bank Notes, including fees and
expenses related to the use of book-entry notes; (d) the reasonable fees and
disbursements of the Bank's counsel, of





                                       14
<PAGE>   48

the Issuing and Paying Agent and of any calculation agents or exchange rate
agents; (e) the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel to the Agents
incurred in connection with the establishment of the program relating to the
Bank Notes and incurred from time to time in connection with the transactions
contemplated thereby; (f) any fees charged by rating agencies for rating of the
Bank Notes; (g) any advertising and other actual, out-of-pocket expenses of the
Agents incurred with the approval of the Bank; (h) the qualification of the
Bank Notes under State securities laws in accordance with the provisions of
Section 4(g) hereof, including the filing fees and the reasonable fees and
disbursements of counsel for the Agents in connection therewith and in
connection with the preparation of any Blue Sky Survey and any Legal Investment
Survey; (i) the cost of preparing and providing any CUSIP or other
identification numbers for the Bank Notes; and (j) any filing fee payable to
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.

SECTION 6.  Conditions of Agents' Obligations.

         The obligations of the Agents to solicit offers to purchase the Bank
Notes as agents of the Bank, the obligations of any purchasers of Bank Notes
sold through an Agent as agent, and any obligation of an Agent to purchase Bank
Notes pursuant to any agreement by such Agent to purchase Bank Notes as
principal (or otherwise), will be subject at all times to the accuracy of the
representations and warranties on the part of the Bank herein and to the
accuracy of the statements of the Bank's and the Parent's officers made in any
certificate furnished pursuant to the provisions hereof, to the performance and
observance by the Bank of all covenants and agreements herein contained and to
the following additional conditions precedent:

         (a)     Legal Opinions.  On the date hereof, the Agents shall have
received the following legal opinions, dated as of the date hereof and in form
and substance satisfactory to the Agents:

                  (i)  Opinion of Counsel to the Bank and the Parent.  The
         opinion of Brunilda Santos de Alvarez, Counsel to the Bank and the
         Parent, substantially in the form of
                                        Exhibit C-1 hereto.

                  (ii)  Opinion of Special Counsel to the Bank and the Parent.
         The opinion of Pietrantoni Mendez & Alvarez, Special Counsel to the
         Bank and the Parent, substantially in the form of Exhibit C-2 hereto.





                                       15
<PAGE>   49


                 (iii) Opinion of Counsel to the Agents.  The opinion of Brown &
         Wood LLP, counsel to the Agents, covering such matters as they may
         reasonably request.

         (b)     Officers' Certificates.  On the date hereof and on each
Settlement Date, the Agents shall have received a certificate of (i) the Bank,
signed by the President, Senior Executive Vice President, Executive Vice
President, Senior Vice President or Vice President, and the Chief Financial
Officer, Chief Accounting Officer, Treasurer or Head of Corporate Finance of
the Bank satisfactory to the Agents, substantially in the form of Exhibit D
hereto, and (ii) the Parent, signed by the President, Senior Executive Vice
President, Executive Vice President, Senior Vice President or Vice President,
and the Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer, Treasurer or Head of
Corporate Finance of the Parent satisfactory to the Agents, substantially in
the form of Exhibit E hereto, each dated the date hereof or such Settlement
Date, as the case may be.

         (c)     Representations Certificate.  On the date hereof, the Agents
shall have received a certificate of the Parent, substantially in the form of
Exhibit F hereto.

         (d)     Other Documents.  On the date hereof and on each Settlement
Date, counsel to the Agents shall have been furnished with such documents and
opinions as such counsel may reasonably request for the purpose of enabling
such counsel to pass upon the issuance and sale of the Bank Notes as herein
contemplated and related proceedings, or in order to evidence the accuracy and
completeness of any of the representations and warranties, or the fulfillment
of any of the conditions, herein contained; and all proceedings taken by the
Bank in connection with the issuance and sale of Bank Notes as herein
contemplated shall be satisfactory in form and substance to the Agents and to
counsel to the Agents.

         If any condition specified in this Section 6 shall not have been
fulfilled when and as required to be fulfilled, this Agreement (or, at the
option of the Agent, any applicable agreement by such Agent to purchase Bank
Notes as principal) may be terminated by the Agents by notice to the Bank at
any time at or prior to the Closing Time and any such termination shall be
without liability of any party to any other party, except that the provisions
of Section 5 hereof, the indemnity and contribution agreement set forth in





                                       16
<PAGE>   50

Sections 9 and 10 hereof, and the provisions of Sections 11, 14 and 15 hereof
shall remain in effect.

SECTION 7.  Delivery of and Payment for Bank Notes Sold
            through an Agent.

         Delivery of Bank Notes sold through an Agent as agent shall be made by
the Bank to such Agent for the account of any purchaser only against payment
therefor in immediately available funds.  In the event that a purchaser shall
fail either to accept delivery of or to make payment for a Bank Note on the
date fixed for settlement, the Agent shall promptly notify the Bank and deliver
the Bank Note to the Bank, and, if the Agent has theretofore paid the Bank for
such Bank Note, the Bank will promptly return such funds to the Agent.  If such
failure shall have occurred for any reason other than default by the applicable
Agent to perform its obligations hereunder, the Bank will reimburse such Agent
on an equitable basis for its loss of the use of funds during the period when
the funds were credited to the account of the Bank.

SECTION 8.  Additional Covenants of the Bank.

         The Bank covenants and agrees with each Agent that:

         (a)     Reaffirmation of Representations and Warranties.  Each
acceptance by the Bank of an offer for the purchase of Bank Notes (whether to
an Agent as principal or through the Agent as agent), and each delivery of Bank
Notes to the Agents, shall be deemed to be an affirmation that the
representations and warranties of the Bank contained in this Agreement and in
any certificate theretofore delivered to the Agents pursuant hereto are true
and correct at the time of such acceptance or sale, as the case may be, and an
undertaking that such representations and warranties will be true and correct
at the time of delivery to the purchaser or his agent, or to the applicable
Agent, of the Bank Note or Bank Notes relating to such acceptance or sale, as
the case may be, as though made at and as of each such time (and it is
understood that such representations and warranties shall relate to the
Offering Circular as amended and supplemented to each such time, including any
amendment resulting from the incorporation by reference of documents filed by
the Bank or the Parent).

         (b)     Subsequent Delivery of Certificates.  Each time that (i) the
Offering Circular shall be amended or supplemented (other than





                                       17
<PAGE>   51

by an amendment or supplement providing solely for a change in the interest
rates of Bank Notes or similar changes), (ii) (if required by an Agent) there
is filed with the Commission or any bank regulatory agency any document
incorporated by reference into the Offering Circular, (iii) (if required by an
Agent) the Bank sells Bank Notes to such Agent as principal or (iv) the Bank
issues and sells Bank Notes in a form not previously certified to the Agents by
the Bank, the Bank shall furnish or cause to be furnished forthwith to the
Agents certificates from the Bank and the Parent dated the date of such
amendment or supplement, the date of such filing, or the Settlement Date, as
the case may be, to the effect that the statements contained in the
certificates which were last furnished to the Agents by the Bank and the Parent
pursuant to Section 6(b) hereof are true and correct at the time of such
amendment, supplement or sale, as the case may be, as though made at and as of
such time (except that such statements shall be deemed to relate to the
Offering Circular as amended and supplemented to such time, including any
amendment resulting from incorporation by reference of documents filed by the
Bank and the Parent) or, in lieu of such certificates, certificates of the same
form as the certificates referred to in said Section 6(b), modified as
necessary to relate to the Offering Circular as amended and supplemented to the
time of delivery of such certificates.

         (c)     Subsequent Delivery of Legal Opinions.  Each time that (i) the
Offering Circular shall be amended or supplemented with respect to the Bank
Notes (other than by an amendment or supplement (x) providing solely for a
change in interest rates of the Bank Notes or similar changes, or (y) setting
forth financial statements or other information as of and for a fiscal period
(unless, in the reasonable judgment of the Agents, an opinion of counsel should
be furnished in light of such an amendment)), (ii) (if required by an Agent)
there is filed with the Commission or any bank regulatory agency any document
incorporated by reference into the Offering Circular, (iii) (if required by an
Agent) the Bank sells Bank Notes to such Agent as principal or (iv) the Bank
issues and sells Bank Notes in a form not previously certified to the Agents by
the Bank, the Bank shall furnish or cause to be furnished forthwith to the
Agents and the Agents' counsel a letter from each counsel last furnishing an
opinion referred to in Sections 6(a)(i) hereof to the effect that the Agents
may rely on such last opinion to the same extent as though it were dated the
date of such letter authorizing reliance (except that statements in such last
opinion shall be deemed to relate to the Offering Circular as amended and
supple-





                                       18
<PAGE>   52

mented at the time of delivery of such letter authorizing reliance) or in lieu
of such letter, each such counsel may deliver a letter in the same form as its
letter referred to in Sections 6(a)(i), but modified as necessary to relate to
the Offering Circular as amended and supplemented at the time of delivery of
such letter.

SECTION 9.  Indemnification.

         (a)     Indemnification of Agents.  The Bank agrees to indemnify and
hold harmless each Agent and each person, if any, who controls each Agent
within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act
as follows:

                 (i)      against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage
         and expense whatsoever, as incurred, arising out of any untrue
         statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in
         the Offering Circular (or any amendment or supplement thereto), or the
         omission or alleged omission therefrom of a material fact necessary to
         make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under
         which they were made, not misleading;

             (ii)         against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage
         and expense whatsoever, as incurred, to the extent of the aggregate
         amount paid in settlement of any litigation, or investigation or
         proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or
         threatened, or of any claim whatsoever based upon any such untrue
         statement or omission, or any such alleged untrue statement or
         omission, if such settlement is effected with the written consent of
         the Bank; and

            (iii)         against any and all expense whatsoever (including the
         reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel chosen by the Agents), as
         reasonably incurred in investigating, preparing or defending against
         any litigation, or investigation or proceeding by any governmental
         agency or body, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever based
         upon any such untrue statement or omission, or any such alleged untrue
         statement or omission, to the extent that any such expense is not paid
         under (i) or (ii) above;

provided, however, that (A) the Bank will not be liable in any such case to the
extent that any such loss, claim, damage or liability arises out of or is based
upon any such untrue statement or alleged





                                       19
<PAGE>   53

untrue statement made therein in reliance upon and in conformity with written
information furnished to the Bank by such Agent specifically for use in
connection with the preparation thereof, and (B) such indemnity with respect to
the Offering Circular (or any amendment or supplement thereto) shall not inure
to the benefit of any Agent (or any person controlling any Agent) from whom the
person asserting any such loss, claim, damage or liability purchased the Bank
Notes which are the subject thereof if such Agent did not send a copy of the
Offering Circular (or any amendment or supplement thereto) excluding documents
incorporated therein by reference to such person at or prior to the
confirmation of the sale of such Notes to such person and the untrue statement
or omission of a material fact contained in the Offering Circular (or any
amendment or supplement thereto) was corrected in the Offering Circular (or any
amendment or supplement thereto).

         (b)     Indemnification of Bank.  Each Agent agrees, severally and not
jointly, to indemnify and hold harmless the Bank and each person, if any, who
controls the Bank within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section
20 of the 1934 Act against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and
expense described in the indemnity contained in Subsection (a) of this Section,
as incurred, but only with respect to untrue statements, or alleged untrue
statements, made in the Offering Circular (or any amendment or supplement
thereto) in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished
to the Bank by such Agent expressly for use in the Offering Circular (or any
amendment or supplement thereto).

         (c)     General.  Each indemnified party shall give prompt notice to
each indemnifying party of any action commenced against it in respect of which
indemnity may be sought hereunder, but failure to so notify an indemnifying
party shall not relieve such indemnifying party from any liability which it may
have otherwise than on account of this indemnity agreement.  An indemnifying
party may participate at its own expense in the defense of such action.  In no
event shall the indemnifying parties be liable for the fees and expenses of
more than one counsel (in addition to any local counsel) for all indemnified
parties in connection with any one action or separate but similar or related
actions in the same jurisdiction arising out of the same general allegations or
circumstances unless (i) the indemnifying party and the indemnified party shall
have mutually agreed to the retention of such counsel or (ii) the same counsel
would be inappropriate due to actual or potential differing interests between
the indemnified parties.





                                       20
<PAGE>   54


SECTION 10.  Contribution.

         In order to provide for just and equitable contribution in
circumstances in which the indemnity agreement provided for in Section 9 hereof
is for any reason held to be unavailable to or insufficient to hold harmless
the indemnified parties although applicable in accordance with its terms, the
Bank, on the one hand, and the Agents, on the other hand, shall contribute to
the aggregate losses, liabilities, claims, damages and expenses of the nature
contemplated by said indemnity agreement incurred by the Bank, on the one hand,
and the Agents, on the other hand, as incurred, in such proportions that each
Agent is responsible for that portion represented by the percentage that the
total commissions and underwriting discounts received by such Agent with
respect to the Notes giving rise to the liability with respect to which
indemnity is sought to the date of such liability bears to the total sales
price received by the Bank from the sale of Bank Notes giving rise to such
liability to the date of such liability, and the Bank is responsible for the
balance; provided, however, that no person guilty of fraudulent
misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the 1933 Act) shall
be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such
fraudulent misrepresentation.  For purposes of this Section, each person, if
any, who controls the Agents within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act
or Section 20 of the 1934 Act shall have the same rights to contribution as the
Agents, and each person, if any, who controls the Bank within the meaning of
Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act shall have the same
rights to contribution as the Bank.  The obligations of each of the Agents and
of the Bank under this Section to contribute are several in proportion to the
respective purchases or sales made by or through it to which such loss, claim,
damage or liability (or action in respect thereof) relates and are not joint.





                                       21
<PAGE>   55

SECTION 11.  Representations, Warranties and Agreements to
             Survive Delivery.

         All representations, warranties and agreements contained in this
Agreement or contained in certificates of officers of the Bank pursuant hereto,
shall remain operative and in full force and effect, regardless of any
investigation made by or on behalf of the Agents or any controlling person of
an Agent, or by or on behalf of the Bank, and shall survive each delivery of
and payment for any of the Bank Notes.

SECTION 12.  Termination.

         (a)  Termination of this Agreement.  This Agreement (excluding any
agreement hereunder by an Agent to purchase Bank Notes as principal) may be
terminated for any reason, at any time by either the Bank or any of the Agents
as to itself, immediately upon the giving of 30 days' written notice of such
termination to the other party hereto in accordance with the provisions of
Section 13 hereof.

         (b)  Termination of an Agreement to Purchase Bank Notes as Principal.
An Agent may terminate an agreement hereunder by such Agent to purchase Bank
Notes as principal, immediately upon notice to the Bank, at any time prior to
the Settlement Date relating thereto (i) if there has been, since the date of
such agreement or since the respective dates as of which information is given
in the Offering Circular, any material adverse change in the condition,
financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business affairs or business
prospects of the Bank and its subsidiaries, or of the Parent and its
subsidiaries, as the case may be, on a consolidated basis, whether or not
arising in the ordinary course of business, or (ii) if there shall have
occurred any material adverse change in the financial markets in the United
States or any outbreak or escalation of hostilities or other national or
international calamity or crisis the effect of which is such as to make it, in
the judgment of such Agent, impracticable to market the Bank Notes or enforce
contracts for the sale of the Bank Notes, or (iii) if trading in any securities
of the Bank or the Parent shall have been suspended by the Commission or a
national securities exchange, or if trading generally on the New York Stock
Exchange, the American Stock Exchange, or Chicago Board of Trade shall have
been suspended, or minimum or maximum prices for trading shall have been fixed,
or maximum ranges for prices for securities shall have been





                                       22
<PAGE>   56

required, by either of said exchanges or by order of the Commission or any
other governmental authority, or if a banking moratorium shall have been
declared by either federal, New York State or Puerto Rico authorities, as the
case may be, or (iv) if the rating assigned by any nationally recognized
securities rating agency to any debt securities of the Bank as of the date of
any agreement by an Agent to purchase the Bank Notes as principal shall have
been lowered since that date or if any such rating agency shall have publicly
announced that it has placed under surveillance or review, other than with
positive implications, its rating of any debt securities or deposits of the
Bank, or (v) if there shall have come to such Agent's attention any facts that
would cause such Agent to believe that the Offering Circular or any amendments
thereto or supplements thereof, at the time it was required to be delivered to
a purchaser of Bank Notes, contained an untrue statement of a material fact or
omitted to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements
therein, in light of the circumstances existing at the time of such delivery,
not misleading.

         (c)  General.  In the event of any such termination, none of the
parties will have any liability to the other parties hereto, except that (i)
the Agents shall be entitled to any commissions earned in accordance with the
third paragraph of Section 3(b) hereof, (ii) if at the time of termination (a)
an Agent shall own any Bank Notes purchased with the intention of reselling
them or (b) an offer to purchase any of the Bank Notes has been accepted by the
Bank but the time of delivery to the purchaser or his agent of the Bank Note or
Bank Notes relating thereto has not occurred, the covenants set forth in
Sections 4 and 8 hereof shall remain in effect until such Bank Notes are so
resold or delivered, as the case may be, and (iii) the provisions of Section 5
hereof, the indemnity and contribution agreements set forth in Sections 9 and
10 hereof, and the provisions of Sections 11, 14 and 15 hereof shall remain in
effect.

SECTION 13.  Notices.

         Unless otherwise provided herein, all notices required under the terms
and provisions hereof shall be in writing, either delivered by hand, by mail or
by telex, telecopier or telegram, and any such notice shall be effective when
received at the address specified below.






                                       23
<PAGE>   57
         If to the Bank:


                 Banco Popular de Puerto Rico
                 209 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Suite 913
                 Hato Rey, Puerto Rico 00918
                 Attention:  Richard Barrios
                 Facsimile Number:  (787) 754-9290

         If to the Parent:

                 BanPonce Corporation
                 209 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Suite 1112
                 Hato Rey, Puerto Rico 00918
                 Attention:  Jose L. Lopez
                 Facsimile Number:  (787) 751-2137

         If to Merrill Lynch & Co.:

                 Merrill Lynch & Co.
                 Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated
                 World Financial Center
                 North Tower, 10th Floor
                 New York, New York  10281-1310
                 Attention:  Product Management-Bank Notes
                 Facsimile Number:  (212) 449-2234

         If to Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc.:

                 Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc.
                 245 Park Avenue
                 New York, New York  10167
                 Attention: Medium-Term Notes Department
                 Facsimile Number: (212) 272-6227

         If to CS First Boston Corporation:

                 CS First Boston Corporation
                 55 East 52nd Street
                 New York, New York  10055
                 Attention: Short-Medium Term Finance Group
                 Facsimile Number: (212) 318-1498

or at such other address as such party may designate from time to time by
notice duly given in accordance with the terms of this Section 13.





                                       24
<PAGE>   58

SECTION 14.  Parties.

         This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the
Agents, the Bank and its respective successors.  Nothing expressed or mentioned
in this Agreement is intended or shall be construed to give any person, firm or
corporation, other than the parties hereto and their respective successors and
the controlling persons and officers and directors referred to in Sections 9
and 10 and their heirs and legal representatives, any legal or equitable right,
remedy or claim under or in respect of this Agreement or any provision herein
or therein contained.  This Agreement and all conditions and provisions hereof
and thereof are intended to be for the sole and exclusive benefit of the
parties hereto and respective successors and said controlling persons and
officers and directors and their heirs and legal representatives, and for the
benefit of no other person, firm or corporation.  No purchaser of Bank Notes
shall be deemed to be a successor by reason merely of such purchase.

SECTION 15.  Governing Law.

         This Agreement and all the rights and obligations of the parties shall
be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of New York applicable
to agreements made and to be performed in such State.





                                       25
<PAGE>   59

SECTION 16.  Counterparts.

         This Agreement may be executed by any one or more of the parties
hereto in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an
original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same
instrument.





                                       26
<PAGE>   60

         If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding of our
agreement, please sign and return to the Bank a counterpart hereof, whereupon
this instrument along with all counterparts will become a binding agreement
between each of the Agents and the Bank in accordance with its terms.

                                   Very truly yours,
                                   
                                   BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO
                                   
                                   
                                   By: ____________________________
                                            Name:
                                            Title:
                                   
                                   
                                   By: ____________________________
                                            Name:
                                            Title:

CONFIRMED AND ACCEPTED,
as of the date first above written:

MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH
                INCORPORATED


By:__________________________________
   Name:
   Title:


BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.


By:__________________________________
   Name:
   Title:


CS FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION


By:__________________________________
   Name:
   Title:





                                       27
<PAGE>   61
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)
                                                                       EXHIBIT A


         The following terms, if applicable, shall be agreed to by the Agent
and the Bank in connection with each sale of Bank Notes to the Agent as
principal:

                 Principal Amount: $_______

                 Choose One:
                 [ ] Medium-Term Bank Note
                 [ ] Short-Term Bank Note

                 Interest Rate:
                          If Fixed Rate Note, Interest Rate:

                          If Floating Rate Note:

                                  Interest Rate Basis:
                                  Initial Interest Rate:
                                  Spread or Spread Multiplier, if any:
                                  Interest Reset Date(s):
                                  Interest Payment Date(s):
                                  Index Maturity:
                         Maximum Interest Rate, if any:
                                  Minimum Interest Rate, if any:
                                  Interest Reset Period:
                                  Interest Payment Period:
                                  Calculation Agent:

                          If Redeemable:

                                  Initial Redemption Date:
                                  Additional Redemption Dates:
                                  Initial Redemption Percentage:
                                  Annual Redemption Percentage Reduction:

                          If Repayable:

                                  Optional Repayment Date(s):

                 Date of Maturity:
                 Purchase Price:  ________%
                 Settlement Date and Time:





                                      A-1
<PAGE>   62

                          Additional Terms:

Also, in connection with the purchase of Bank Notes by the Agent as principal,
agreement as to whether the following will be required:

                 (a)      Officers' Certificates pursuant to Section 8(b) of
                          the Distribution Agreement.  
                 (b)      Legal Opinions pursuant to Section 8(c) of the 
                          Distribution Agreement.





                                      A-2
<PAGE>   63
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)
                                                                       EXHIBIT B


         Unless otherwise negotiated, compensation for the services of the
Agents when acting as agents hereunder, the Bank shall pay the applicable
Agent, on a discount basis, a commission for the sale of each Bank Note equal
to the principal amount of such Bank Note multiplied by the appropriate
percentage set forth below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    PERCENT OF
MATURITY RANGES                                  PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
- ---------------                                  ----------------
<S>                                                    <C>
From 7 days to less than 9 months.............         .050%

From 9 months to less than 1 year.............         .125

From 1 year to less than 18 months............         .150

From 18 months to less than 2 years...........         .200

From 2 years to less than 3 years.............         .250

From 3 years to less than 4 years.............         .350

From 4 years to less than 5 years.............         .450

From 5 years to less than 6 years.............         .500

From 6 years to less than 7 years.............         .550

From 7 years to less than 10 years............         .600

From 10 years to less than 15 years...........         .625

15 years......................................         .700
</TABLE>





                                     B-1
<PAGE>   64
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)
                                                                     EXHIBIT C-1


            [FORM OF OPINION OF COUNSEL TO THE BANK AND THE PARENT]

                                                              ___________, 199__


MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH
                   INCORPORATED
World Financial Center
North Tower, 10th Floor
New York, New York  10281-1310

BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.
245 Park Avenue
New York, New York  10167

CS FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION
55 East 52nd Street
New York, New York  10055


Ladies and Gentlemen:


         In connection with the execution today (i) by you and Banco Popular de
Puerto Rico (the "Bank"), of the Distribution Agreement (the "Distribution
Agreement"), (ii) by BanPonce Corporation (the "Parent") of the Representations
Certificate pursuant to Section 6(c) of the Distribution Agreement (the
"Representations Certifi-cate"), (iii) by the Bank and The Chase Manhattan Bank
(in such capacity, the "Issuing and Paying Agent") of the Issuing and Paying
Agency Agreement (the "Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement"), (iv) by the Bank
and The Chase Manhattan Bank (in such capacity, the "Calculation Agent") of the
Interest Calculation Agreement (the "Interest Calculation Agreement") and (v)
by the Bank, the Issuing and Paying Agent and The Depository Trust Company of
the Short-Term and Medium-Term Letters of Representations (the "Letters of
Representations"), all of which are dated September 23, 1996, relating to the
issuance and sale by the Bank of its Bank Notes due from 7 days to 15 years
from the date of issue (the "Bank Notes"), I, as counsel for the Bank and the
Parent, the parent corporation





                                     C-1-1
<PAGE>   65

and the bank holding company of the Bank, have examined such corporate records,
certificates and other documents, and such questions of law, as I have
considered necessary or appropriate for the purposes of this opinion.  Upon the
basis of such examination, it is my opinion that:

                 (i)  The Bank is a banking corporation duly organized, validly
         existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of
         its incorporation, the Parent is a corporation duly organized, validly
         existing, and in good standing under the laws of the Commonwealth of
         Puerto Rico and each of the Bank and the Parent is licensed,
         registered or qualified to conduct the business in which it is engaged
         in each jurisdiction in which the conduct of its business or its
         ownership or leasing of property requires such license, registration
         or qualification, except to the extent that the failure to be so
         licensed, registered or qualified or to be in good standing would not
         have a material adverse effect on it and its subsidiaries and the
         Parent and its subsidiaries taken as a whole.  The Bank is a
         wholly-owned subsidiary of the Parent, a bank holding company which
         has securities registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
         as amended (the "1934 Act").

                 (ii)  Neither the Bank or any of its subsidiaries nor the
         Parent or any of its subsidiaries is in violation of its charter or in
         default in the performance or observance of any material obligation,
         agreement, covenant or condition contained in any material contract,
         indenture, mortgage, loan agreement, note, lease or other instrument
         to which it is a party or by which it or any of them or their
         properties may be bound.  The execution, issuance and delivery by the
         Bank of the Bank Notes, the execution, delivery and performance by the
         Bank of the Distribution Agreement, the Issuing and Paying Agency
         Agreement, the Interest Calculation Agreement, the Letters of
         Representations and any agreement by an agent party to the
         Distribution Agreement to purchase the Bank Notes as principal, and
         the execution, delivery and performance by the Parent of the
         Representations Certificate, will not violate any law, rule,
         regulation, order, judgment or decree applic-able to the Parent and
         its subsidiaries or to the Bank and any of its subsidiaries or violate
         any provision of the Bank's or the Parent's Charter, Bylaws, Articles
         of Incorporation or Articles of Association, as the case may be, or,
         conflict with





                                     C-1-2
<PAGE>   66

         or result in a breach of or constitute a default under, or result in
         the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any
         property or assets of the Parent and its subsidiaries or the Bank and
         its subsidiaries pursuant to any material contract, indenture,
         mortgage loan agreement, note, lease or other instrument to which the
         Parent or any of its subsidiaries or the Bank or any of its
         subsidiaries, or the property of any of them, is bound or subject,
         except for any conflict, breach or violation that would, individually
         or in the aggregate, not have a material adverse effect on the
         financial condition, business or results of operations of the Parent
         or its subsidiaries (including the Bank); provided, however, that, for
         purposes of this paragraph (ii), I express no opinion with respect to
         federal or state securities laws, antifraud laws, fraudulent transfer
         laws, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and related
         laws or laws that restrict transactions between United States persons
         and citizens or residents of certain foreign countries; provided,
         further, that insofar as performance by the Bank or the Parent of its
         obligations under the Distribution Agree-ment, the Issuing and Paying
         Agency Agreement, the Interest Calculation Agreement, the Bank Notes,
         the Letters of Representations and any other related agreement is
         concerned, I express no opinion as to bankruptcy, liquidation,
         insol-vency, reorganization, moratorium, receivership and similar laws
         of general applicability relating to, or affecting, creditors' rights
         generally and specifically the rights of creditors of the FDIC -
         insured institutions and to general equity principles.

                 (iii)  Except as may be set forth in the Offering Circular,
         there is no action, suit or proceeding before or by any court or
         governmental agency or body, domestic or foreign, now pending, or, to
         my knowledge, threatened against or affecting, the Parent or any of
         its subsidiaries or the Bank or any of its subsidiaries, which might
         result in any material adverse change in the condition, financial or
         otherwise, or in the earnings, business affairs or business prospects
         of the Bank and its subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, or might
         materially and adversely affect the properties or assets thereof or
         would reasonably be expected to materially and adversely affect the
         consummation of this Agreement, the Issuing and Paying Agency
         Agreement, the Interest Calculation





                                     C-1-3
<PAGE>   67

         Agreement, the Letters of Representations or any transaction
         contemplated hereby or thereby.

                 (iv)  The Representations Certificate has been duly
         authorized, executed and delivered by a duly authorized officer of the
         Parent and is a valid and legally binding agreement of the Parent
         enforceable in accordance with its terms, subject to applicable
         bankruptcy, liquidation, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium,
         receivership and similar laws of general applicability relating to, or
         affecting, creditors' rights and to general equity principles.

                 (v)  I have no knowledge of any facts that would lead me to
         believe that the Offering Circular (other than financial statements
         and other financial data included therein, as to which I express no
         opinion) as of its date contained any untrue statement of a material
         fact or omitted to state any material fact necessary in order to make
         the statements made therein, in light of the circumstances under which
         they were made, not misleading.

         The foregoing opinion is limited to the federal laws of the United
States and the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and I am expressing no
opinion as to the effect of the laws of any other jurisdiction.  Capitalized
terms used herein and not otherwise defined have the meanings set forth in the
Distribution Agreement.

         This opinion letter is solely for the benefit of the parties to whom
it is addressed.  It may be relied upon by Brown & Wood LLP as to matters of
the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico but it may not be relied upon, nor
may copies be delivered to, any other parties or persons without my prior
written consent.

                                        Very truly yours,





                                     C-1-4
<PAGE>   68
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)
                                                                     EXHIBIT C-2

            [FORM OF OPINION OF COUNSEL TO THE BANK AND THE PARENT]

                                                                __________, 199_


MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH
                   INCORPORATED
World Financial Center
North Tower, 10th Floor
New York, New York  10281-1310

BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.
245 Park Avenue
New York, New York  10167

CS FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION
55 East 52nd Street
New York, New York  10055


Ladies and Gentlemen:


         In connection with the execution today (i) by you and Banco Popular de
Puerto Rico (the "Bank"), of the Distribution Agreement (the "Distribution
Agreement"), (ii) by BanPonce Corporation (the "Parent") of the Representations
Certificate pursuant to Section 6(c) of the Distribution Agreement (the
"Representations Certifi-cate"), (iii) by the Bank and The Chase Manhattan Bank
(in such capacity, the "Issuing and Paying Agent") of the Issuing and Paying
Agency Agreement (the "Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement"), (iv) by the Bank
and The Chase Manhattan Bank (in such capacity, the "Calculation Agent") of the
Interest Calculation Agreement (the "Interest Calculation Agreement") and (v)
by the Bank, the Issuing and Paying Agent and The Depository Trust Company of
the Short-Term and Medium-Term Letters of Representations (the "Letters of
Representations"), all of which are dated September 23, 1996, relating to the
issuance and sale by the Bank of its Bank Notes due from 7 days to 15 years
from the date of issue (the "Bank Notes"), I, as counsel for the Bank and the
Parent, the parent corporation and the bank holding company of the Bank, have
examined such





                                     C-2-1
<PAGE>   69

corporate records, certificates and other documents, and such questions of law,
as I have considered necessary or appropriate for the purposes of this opinion.
Upon the basis of such examination, it is my opinion that:

                 (vi)  The Distribution Agreement, the Issuing and Paying
         Agency Agreement, the Interest Calculation Agreement and the Letters
         of Representations have been duly authorized, executed and delivered
         by the Bank and are valid and legally binding agreements of the Bank,
         [enforceable in accordance with their respective terms,] subject to
         applicable bankruptcy, liquida-tion, insolvency, reorganization,
         moratorium, receivership and similar laws of general applicability
         relating to, or affecting, creditors' rights generally and
         specifically the rights of creditors of the FDIC - insured
         institutions and to general equity principles or by safety and
         soundness concerns raised by the applicable banking regulators.

                 (vii)  The Bank Notes of the Bank have been duly authorized
         and, when issued and authenticated against payment of the
         consideration therefor, the Bank Notes will be valid and binding
         obligations of the Bank, enforceable in accordance with their
         respective terms, subject to applicable bankruptcy, fraudulent
         transfer, liquidation, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium,
         receivership and similar laws of general applicability relating to, or
         affecting, creditors' rights generally and specifically the rights of
         creditors of the FDIC - insured institutions and to general equity
         principles  or by safety and soundness concerns raised by the
         applicable banking regulators.

                 (viii)  The Bank Notes of the Bank are exempt from
         registration under Section 3(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as
         amended (the "1933 Act").  Neither registration of the Bank Notes
         under the 1933 Act nor qualification of an indenture under the Trust
         Indenture Act of 1939, as amended, will be required in connection with
         the offer, sale, issuance or delivery of such Bank Notes pursuant to
         the Distribution Agreement or any applicable agreement by an agent
         party to the Distribution Agreement.

                 (ix)  The Bank is not required to register under the
         provisions of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended





                                     C-2-2
<PAGE>   70

         (the "Investment Company Act"), or to take any other action with
         respect to or under the Investment Company Act.

                 (x)  No consent, approval or authorization of or filing with
         any governmental body or agency is required for the performance by the
         Bank of any obligation under the Distribution Agreement, the Bank
         Notes, the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement, the Interest
         Calculation Agreement, the Letters of Representations and any
         applicable agreement by an Agent party to the Distribution Agreement
         to purchase the Bank Notes as principal, except such as may be
         required by the securities or Blue Sky laws of the various states in
         connection with the offer and sale of the Bank Notes, the rules of the
         National Association of Securities Dealers in connection with the sale
         and distribution of the Notes by the Agents and except for the waiver
         of the Commissioner of Financial Institutions of Puerto Rico pursuant
         to Section 14(d) of the Puerto Rico Banking Act, which waiver has been
         obtained.

                 (xi)  The Bank Notes are substantially in the form delivered
         to the Agents and conform to the description thereof contained in the
         Offering Circular under the caption "Description of Notes."

                 (xii)  The Bank Notes are unsecured and unsubordinated debt
         obligations of the Bank and rank pari passu with all other unsecured
         and unsubordinated debt obligations of the Bank except, pursuant to
         Section 11(d)(11) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, the Bank's
         unsecured deposit liabilities.

                 [(xiii)  No taxes, withholdings or other charges imposed by
         the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or any political subdivision thereof,
         the United States, the State of New York or the City of New York are
         required to be withheld or charged in respect of any payment by the
         Bank on the Bank Notes and the Bank Notes are not subject to any
         registration tax, stamp duty or similar tax or duty imposed by the
         Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or any political subdivision thereof.]

         The foregoing opinion is limited to the federal laws of the United
States and the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and I am expressing no
opinion as to the effect of the laws of any





                                     C-2-3
<PAGE>   71

other jurisdiction.  Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined
have the meanings set forth in the Distribution Agreement.

         This opinion letter is solely for the benefit of the parties to whom
it is addressed.  It may be relied upon by Brown & Wood LLP as to matters of
the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico but it may not be relied upon, nor
may copies be delivered to, any other parties or persons without our prior
written consent.

                                        Very truly yours,





                                     C-2-4
<PAGE>   72
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)
                                                                       EXHIBIT D


                          BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO


                             OFFICERS' CERTIFICATE


         We, [Officers' Names], [Officers' Titles], respectively, of Banco
Popular de Puerto Rico, a banking corporation chartered under the laws of the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (the "Bank"), pursuant to Section 6(b)(i) of the
Distribution Agreement, dated September __, 1996 (the "Distribution
Agreement"), among the Bank, Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner
& Smith Incorporated, Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. and CS First Boston Corporation
hereby certify on behalf of the Bank that [to the best of our knowledge]:

         (i)     Since ________, 19__, there has been no material adverse
change in the condition, financial or otherwise, of the Bank and its
subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, or in the earnings, business affairs or
business prospects of the Bank and its subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis,
whether or not arising in the ordinary course of business other than as set
forth or contemplated in the Offering Circular, dated September 24, 1996, as
amended or supplemented to the date hereof, relating to the Bank's Bank Notes;

         (ii)    The other representations and warranties of the Bank contained
in Section 2 of the Distribution Agreement are true and correct with the same
force and effect as though expressly made at and as of the date hereof; and

         (iii)   The Bank has performed or complied with the Distribution
Agreement and with all agreements and documentation executed in connection
therewith and satisfied all conditions on its part to be performed or satisfied
at or prior to the date hereof.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto signed our names and affixed the
seal of the Bank this ___ day of __________, 19 ___.


                                       BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO
                                    
                                    
                                       By: ______________________________
                                           Name:
                                           Title:
[SEAL]
                                       By: ________________________
                                           Name:
                                           Title:


                                      D-1
<PAGE>   73
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)
                                                                       EXHIBIT E

                              BANPONCE CORPORATION

                             OFFICERS' CERTIFICATE

         We, [Officers' Names], [Officers' Titles], respectively, of BanPonce
Corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico (the "Parent"), pursuant to Section 6(b)(ii) of the Distribution
Agreement, dated September __, 1996 (the "Distribution Agreement"), among the
Bank, Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated,
Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. and CS First Boston Corporation hereby certify on
behalf of the Bank that [to the best of our knowledge]:

         1.      Since ________, 19__, there has been no material adverse
change in the condition, financial or otherwise, of the Bank and its
subsidiaries or the Parent and its subsidiaries, as the case may be, on a
consolidated basis, or in the earning, business affairs or business prospects
of the Bank and its subsidiaries or the Parent and its subsidiaries, as the
case may be, on a consolidated basis, whether or not arising in the ordinary
course of business other than as set forth or contemplated in the Offering
Circular, dated September 24, 1996, as amended or supplemented to the date
hereof, relating to the Bank's Bank Notes;

         2.      The representations and warranties of the Parent contained in
the Representations Certificate dated September __, 1996, furnished by the
Parent to the Agents pursuant to Section 6(c) of the Distribution Agreement,
are true and correct with the same force and effect as though expressly made at
and as of the date hereof; and

         3.      The Parent has performed or complied with the Distribution
Agreement and with all agreements and documentation executed in connection
therewith and satisfied all conditions on its part to be performed or satisfied
at or prior to the date hereof.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto signed our names and affixed the
seal of the Parent the ___ day of _______, 19__.

                              BANPONCE CORPORATION

                                           By: ______________________________
                                               Name:
                                               Title:
[SEAL]                                      
                                            
                                           By: ______________________________
                                               Name:
                                               Title:






                                      E-1
<PAGE>   74
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)
                                                                       EXHIBIT F


                     REPRESENTATIONS CERTIFICATE OF PARENT


         To induce Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated, Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. and CS First Boston Corporation (each
referred to as an "Agent" and collectively referred to as the "Agents") to
enter into the Distribution Agreement of even date herewith (the "Distribution
Agreement") among Banco Popular de Puerto Rico (the "Bank") and the Agents, to
induce The Chase Manhattan Bank to enter into the Issuing and Paying Agency
Agreement (the "Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement") between the Bank and The
Chase Manhattan Bank and to induce The Chase Manhattan Bank to enter into the
Interest Calculation Agreement (the "Interest Calculation Agreement") between
the Bank and The Chase Manhattan Bank, each with respect to the issue and sale
by the Bank of its Bank Notes (the "Bank Notes"), the undersigned, [Officers'
Names], [Officers' Titles in accordance with Section 6(c) of the Distribution
Agreement] of BanPonce Corporation (the "Parent"), hereby represent and warrant
on behalf of the Parent to each Agent and to The Chase Manhattan Bank as of the
date hereof, as of each time that there is filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the "Commission") any document relating to the Parent
incorporated by reference in the Offering Circular, dated September 24, 1996,
as of the date of each acceptance by the Bank of an offer for the purchase of
Bank Notes (whether by an Agent as principal or through such Agent as agent),
as of each applicable Settlement Date and as of each applicable Representation
Date, as follows:

                 (i)      Authorization to Incorporate by Reference.  The
         Parent has authorized the Bank to incorporate by reference in the
         Offering Circular its annual reports on Form 10-K for its most
         recently ended fiscal year, quarterly reports on Form  10-Q since its
         most recently ended fiscal year, current reports on Form 8-K since its
         most recently ended fiscal year and any other document filed by the
         Parent with the Commission pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
         Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act") and the
         rules and regulations thereunder (the "Incorporated Documents").





                                      F-1
<PAGE>   75

              (ii)  Incorporated Documents.  The Incorporated Documents,
         at the time they were or hereafter are filed with the applicable
         federal regulatory authorities, complied or when so filed will comply,
         as the case may be, in all material respects with the requirements of
         the 1934 Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder or
         the rules and regulations otherwise applicable thereto, as the case
         may be, and, when read together with the other information in the
         Offering Circular, did not and will not contain an untrue statement of
         a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated
         therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the
         light of the circumstances under which they were or are made, not
         misleading.

              (iii) Due Organization, Valid Existence and Good Standing.  The
         Parent is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good
         standing under the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and is
         licensed, registered or qualified to conduct the business in which it
         is engaged in each jurisdiction in which the conduct of its business
         or its ownership or leasing of property requires such license,
         registration or qualification, except to the extent that the failure
         to be so licensed, registered or qualified or to be in good standing
         would not have a material adverse effect on the Parent and its
         subsidiaries taken as a whole.

              (iv)  No Material Adverse Change.  Since the respective
         dates as of which information is given in the Offering Circular, there
         has not been any material adverse change, or any development which
         could be expected to result in a material adverse change, in the
         condition, financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business
         affairs or business prospects of the Bank and its subsidiaries or the
         Parent and its subsidiaries, as the case may be, on a consolidated
         basis, whether or not arising in the ordinary course of business,
         other than as set forth or contemplated in the Offering Circular.

         In addition, to induce the Agents to enter into the Distribution
Agreement, the Parent agrees to indemnify and hold harmless each Agent and each
person, if any, who controls each Agent within the meaning of Section 15 of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or Section 20 of the 1934 Act (each, a
"Controlling Person") to the same extent and upon the same terms that the Bank
agrees to indemnify and hold harmless each Agent and each such





                                      F-2
<PAGE>   76

Controlling Person in Section 9 of the Distribution Agreement and to contribute
to the payment of any losses, liabilities, claims, damages or expenses incurred
by each Agent or each such Controlling Person to the same extent and upon the
same terms that the Bank agrees to contribute in Section 10 of the Distribution
Agreement; provided, however, that such indemnification or contribution granted
by the Parent shall be an obligation of the Parent if and only to the extent
that such indemnification or contribution granted by the Bank is unavailable to
or insufficient to hold such Agent or Controlling Person harmless with respect
to any losses, liabilities, claims, damages or expenses (or actions in respect
thereof) referred to above.

         All representations and warranties contained in this certificate shall
remain operative and in full force and effect, regardless of any investigation
made by or on behalf of the Agents or any Controlling Person of the Agents, or
by or on behalf of the Parent and shall survive each delivery of and payment
for any of the Bank Notes.

         All terms used herein but not otherwise defined shall have the
meanings assigned to such terms in the Distribution Agreement.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto signed my name on behalf of the
Parent the ___ day of _______, 19__.


                                    BANPONCE CORPORATION
                                   
                                   
                                    By: ______________________________
                                        Name:
                                        Title:
                                   
                                   
                                    By: ______________________________
                                        Name:
                                        Title:





                                      F-3
<PAGE>   77
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)
                                                                       EXHIBIT G



                           ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
                  FOR FIXED RATE AND FLOATING RATE BANK NOTES
                     With maturities of 7 days to 15 years
                        (Dated as of September 24, 1996)


                 The Short-Term Bank Notes ("Short-Term Notes"), Medium-Term
Bank Notes ("Medium-Term Notes," and together with the Short-Term Senior Notes,
the "Notes") are to be offered on a continuous basis for sale by Banco Popular
de Puerto Rico (the "Bank") through each of Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch,
Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. and CS First
Boston Corporation who, as agents (each, an "Agent" and collectively, the
"Agents"), will purchase the Notes, as principal from the Bank for resale to
investors and other purchasers at varying prices relating to prevailing market
prices at the time of resale as determined by the applicable Agent or, if so
specified in the applicable Pricing Supplement, for resale at a fixed public
offering price.  If agreed to by the Bank and the applicable Agent, such Agent
may utilize its reasonable efforts on an agency basis to solicit offers to
purchase the Notes at 100% of the principal amount thereof.  Only those
provisions in these Administrative Procedures that are applicable to the
particular role that an Agent will perform shall apply.

                 The Notes are being sold pursuant to a Distribution Agreement
dated September 24, 1996 (the "Distribution Agreement") between the Bank and
the Agents.  The Distribution Agreement provides both for the sale of Notes by
the Bank to the Agents as principal for resale to investors and other
purchasers and for the sale of Notes by the Bank through the Agents as agents
and not as principal in which case the Agents will act as agents of the Bank in
soliciting Note purchases.  The Notes will be issued pursuant to an issuing and
paying agency agreement dated as of September 24, 1996 (the "Issuing and Paying
Agency Agreement") between the Bank and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as issuing
and paying agent (the "Issuing and Paying Agent").  As used herein, the term
"Offering Circular" refers to the most recent offering circular, as such
document may be amended or supplemented, which has been prepared by the Bank
for use by the Agents in connection with the offering of the Notes.





                                      G-1
<PAGE>   78


              The Notes will be issued in book-entry form (each beneficial
interest in a global Note, a "Book-Entry Note" and collectively, the
"Book-Entry Notes") and represented by one or more fully registered global
Notes (each, a "Global Note" and collectively, the "Global Notes") delivered to
the Issuing and Paying Agent, as agent for The Depository Trust Company, as
depositary ("DTC," which term includes any successor thereof), and recorded in
the book- entry system maintained by DTC.  Book-Entry Notes represented by a
Global Note are exchangeable for definitive Notes in registered form, of like
tenor and of an equal aggregate principal amount, by the owners of such
Book-Entry Notes only upon certain limited circumstances described in the
Offering Circular and the applicable Global Note.

         In connection with the qualification of Book-Entry Notes for 
eligibility in the book-entry system maintained by DTC, the Issuing and Paying
Agent will perform the custodial, document control and administrative functions
described below, in accordance with its respective obligations under the
Short-Term and Medium-Term Letters of Representations from the Bank and the
Issuing and Paying Agent to DTC, dated September 23, 1996, and a Certificate
Agreement, dated December 2, 1988, as amended September 24, 1996, between the
Issuing and Paying Agent and DTC (the "Certificate Agreement"), and its
obligations as a participant in DTC, including DTC's Same-Day Funds Settlement
System ("SDFS").

         Capitalized terms used herein that are not otherwise defined shall
have the meanings ascribed thereto in the Notes.


Date of Issuance/ 
  Authentication:                       Each Note will be dated as of the date 
                                        of its authentication by the Issuing 
                                        and Paying Agent.  Each Note shall
                                        also bear an original issue date (the
                                        "Original Issue Date") which shall be
                                        the settle-ment date for such Note. 
                                        The Original Issue Date shall remain
                                        the same for all Notes subsequently
                                        issued upon transfer, exchange or
                                        substitution of an original Note
                                        regardless of their dates of
                                        authentication.





                                      G-2
<PAGE>   79

Maturities:                                Each Short-Term Note will mature on
                                           a date (the "Maturity Date")
                                           selected by the purchaser and agreed
                                           to by the Bank which is not less
                                           than seven days and not more than
                                           one year from its Original Issue
                                           Date, as selected by the initial
                                           purchaser and agreed to by the Bank;
                                           and each Medium-Term Note will have
                                           a Maturity Date selected by the
                                           purchaser and agreed to by the Bank
                                           which is from more than one year to
                                           not more than 15 years from its
                                           Original Issue Date; provided,
                                           however, that Floating Rate Notes
                                           will mature on an Interest Payment
                                           Date.

Registration:                              Notes will be issued only in fully
                                           registered form.
        
Calculation of 
  Interest:                                Unless otherwise
                                           specified therein and in the
                                           applicable Pricing Supplement,
                                           interest (including payments for
                                           partial periods) on Fixed Rate Notes
                                           having maturities of more than one
                                           year will be computed and paid on
                                           the basis of a 360-day year of
                                           twelve 30-day months.  Unless
                                           otherwise specified therein and in
                                           the applicable Pricing Supplement,
                                           interest on Fixed Rate Notes having
                                           maturities of one year or less will
                                           be computed on the basis of the
                                           actual number of days of the year
                                           divided by 360 and will be payable
                                           only at maturity.  Unless otherwise
                                           specified therein and in the
                                           applicable Pricing Supplement,
                                           interest on Floating Rate Notes will
                                           be calculated and paid on the basis
                                           of the actual number of days in the
                                           year divided by 360 in the case of
                                           Commercial Paper Rate Notes, LIBOR
                                           Notes, Federal Funds Rate Notes,
                                           Prime Rate Notes and Eleventh
                                           District Cost of Funds Rate Notes,
                                           and by the actual number of days in
                                           the year divided by 365 or 366,





                                      G-3
<PAGE>   80

                                           as the case may be, in the case of
                                           Treasury Rate Notes.

Redemption/Repayment:                      The Notes will be subject to
                                           redemption by the Bank on and after
                                           their respective Initial Redemption
                                           Dates, if any.  Initial Redemption
                                           Dates, if any, will be fixed at the
                                           time of sale and set forth in the
                                           applicable Pricing Supplement and in
                                           the applicable Note.  If no Initial
                                           Redemption Dates are indicated with
                                           respect to a Note, such Note will
                                           not be redeemable prior to its
                                           Maturity Date.

                                           The Notes will be subject to
                                           repayment at the option of the
                                           holders thereof in accordance with
                                           the terms of the Notes on their
                                           respective Holder's  Optional
                                           Repayment Dates, if any. Holder's
                                           Optional Repayment Dates, if any,
                                           will be fixed at the time of sale
                                           and set forth in the applicable
                                           Pricing Supplement and in the
                                           applicable Note.  If no Holder's
                                           Optional Repayment Dates are
                                           indicated with respect to a Note,
                                           such Note will not be repayable at
                                           the option of the holder prior to
                                           its Maturity Date.

Acceptance and 
  Rejection of Offers:                     When the Agent is soliciting offers 
                                           to purchase the Notes, the Bank
                                           shall have the sole right to accept
                                           offers to purchase Notes and may
                                           reject any such offer, in whole or
                                           in part.  Each Agent shall promptly
                                           communicate to the Bank, orally,
                                           each offer to purchase Notes
                                           solicited by such Agent on an agency
                                           basis, other than those offers
                                           rejected by the Agent.  Each Agent
                                           shall have the right, without notice
                                           to the Bank, to reject any proposed
                                           purchase of Notes through it, in
                                           whole or in part.







                                      G-4
<PAGE>   81
Preparation of 

  Pricing Supplement:                      If any offer to purchase a Note is
                                           accepted by the Bank, the Bank, with
                                           the approval of the Agent which
                                           presented such offer (the
                                           "Presenting Agent"), will prepare a
                                           Pricing Supplement reflecting the
                                           terms of such Note.

Procedure for Changing 
  Rates or Other 
  Variable Terms:                          When the Agents are soliciting
                                           offers to purchase the Notes from
                                           the Bank and a decision has been
                                           reached to change the interest rate
                                           or any other variable term on any
                                           Notes being sold by the Bank, the
                                           Bank will promptly advise the Agents
                                           and the Agents will forthwith
                                           suspend solicitation of offers to
                                           purchase such Notes.  The Agents
                                           will telephone the Bank with
                                           recommendations as to the changed
                                           interest rates or other variable
                                           terms.  At such time as the Bank
                                           advises the Agents of the new
                                           interest rates or other variable
                                           terms, the Agents may resume
                                           solicitation of offers to purchase
                                           such Notes. Until such time, only
                                           "indications of interest" may be
                                           recorded.  Immediately after
                                           acceptance by the Bank of an offer
                                           to purchase at a new interest rate
                                           or new variable term, the Bank and
                                           the Presenting Agent shall follow
                                           the procedures set forth under the
                                           applicable "Settlement Procedures."

Suspension of Solici- 
  tation; Amendment 
  or Supplement:                           While the Agents are soliciting
                                           offers to purchase Notes from the
                                           Bank, the Bank may instruct the
                                           Agents to suspend solicitation of
                                           offers to purchase Notes at any
                                           time.  Upon receipt of such
                                           instructions, the Agents will
                                           forthwith suspend solicitation of
                                           offers to purchase Notes from the
                                           Bank until such time as the Bank has
                                           advised them that





                                      G-5
<PAGE>   82

                                           solicitation of offers to purchase 
                                           may be resumed.  If the Bank 
                                           decides to amend the Offering 
                                           Circular (including incorporating any
                                           documents by reference therein) or
                                           supplement any of such documents
                                           (other than to change rates or other
                                           variable terms), it will immediately
                                           notify, with confirmation in writing
                                           to follow, the Agents and will
                                           furnish the Agents and their counsel
                                           with copies of the proposed
                                           amendment (including any document
                                           proposed to be incorporated by
                                           reference therein) or supplement;
                                           provided, however, that the Bank
                                           shall be required to provide such
                                           notice and copies only to the extent
                                           that it is required to do so
                                           pursuant to the terms of the
                                           Distribution Agreement.  One copy of
                                           such proposed amendment or
                                           supplement will be delivered or
                                           mailed to the Agents at the
                                           following respective addresses:
                                           Merrill Lynch & Co., World Financial
                                           Center, North Tower, 10th Floor, New
                                           York, New York 10281-1310, (212)
                                           449-0393, telecopier: (212)
                                           449-2234, Attention: Product
                                           Management - Medium-Term Notes;
                                           Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc., 245 Park
                                           Avenue, New York, New York 10167,
                                           (212) 272-6227, telecopier: (212)
                                           272-5371, Attention:  Medium-Term
                                           Notes Department; and CS First
                                           Boston Corporation, 55 East 52nd
                                           Street, New York, New York 10038,
                                           (212) 909-7198, telecopier: (212)
                                           318-1498, Attention: Short-Medium
                                           Term Finance Group.

                                           In the event that at the time the
                                           solicitation of offers to purchase
                                           from the Bank is suspended (other
                                           than to change interest rates,
                                           maturities, prices or other similar
                                           variable terms with respect to the
                                           Notes) there shall be any offers to
                                           purchase Notes that have been
                                           accepted





                                      G-6
<PAGE>   83

                                           by the Bank which have not been
                                           settled, the Bank will promptly
                                           advise the Agents whether such
                                           offers may be settled and whether
                                           copies of the Offering Circular, as
                                           theretofore amended and/or
                                           supplemented, as in effect at the
                                           time of such suspension may be
                                           delivered in connection with the
                                           settlement of such orders.  The Bank
                                           will have the sole responsibility
                                           for such decision and for any
                                           arrangements which may be made in
                                           the event that the Bank determines
                                           that such orders may not be settled
                                           or that copies of such Offering
                                           Circular may not be so delivered.

Delivery of
  Offering Circular:                       A copy of the most recent Offering
                                           Circular and Pricing Supplement must
                                           accompany or precede the earlier of
                                           (a) the written confirmation of a
                                           sale sent to a customer or his agent
                                           and (b) the delivery of Notes to a
                                           customer or his agent.

Authenticity of
  Signatures:                              The Agents will have no obligations
                                           or liability to the Bank or the
                                           Issuing and Paying Agent in respect
                                           of the authenticity of the signature
                                           of any officer, employee or agent of
                                           the Bank or the Issuing and Paying
                                           Agent on any Note.

Documents Incorpo-
  rated by Reference:                      The Bank shall supply the Agents
                                           with an adequate supply of all
                                           documents incorporated by reference
                                           in the Offering Circular.

Business Day:                              "Business Day" means, with respect
                                           to any Note, any day that is not a
                                           Saturday or Sunday and that is not a
                                           day which is a bank holiday in
                                           Puerto Rico or a day on which
                                           banking institutions in The City of
                                           New York or in the city in which the
                                           Bank





                                      G-7
<PAGE>   84

                                           is headquartered are authorized or
                                           required by law, regulation or
                                           executive order to close, and with
                                           respect to LIBOR Notes only, any day
                                           that is also a London Business Day.
                                           "London Business Day" means any day
                                           on which dealings in deposits in
                                           U.S. dollars are transacted in the
                                           London interbank market.

Issuance:                                  All Fixed Rate Notes of the Bank
                                           issued in book-entry form having the
                                           same Original Issue Date, Interest
                                           Rate, Interest Payment Dates,
                                           Regular Record Dates, Default Rate,
                                           Maturity Date, redemption and/or
                                           repayment terms, if any, original
                                           issue discount terms, if any, and
                                           otherwise having identical terms and
                                           provisions (collectively, the "Fixed
                                           Rate Terms") will be represented
                                           initially by a single Global Note in
                                           fully registered form; and all
                                           Floating Rate Notes of the Bank
                                           issued in book-entry form having the
                                           same Original Issue Date, interest
                                           rate basis upon which interest may
                                           be determined (each, an "Interest
                                           Rate Basis"), which may be the
                                           Commercial Paper Rate, LIBOR, the
                                           Treasury Rate, the Federal Funds
                                           Rate, the Prime Rate, the Eleventh
                                           District Cost of Funds Rate and any
                                           other rate set forth by the Bank in
                                           a Floating Rate Note, Initial
                                           Interest Rate, Index Maturity,
                                           Spread and/or Spread Multiplier, if
                                           any, Regular Record Dates, Maximum
                                           Interest Rate, if any, Minimum
                                           Interest Rate, if any, Interest
                                           Payment Dates, Interest Payment
                                           Period, Interest Reset Dates,
                                           Interest Reset Period, Alternate
                                           Rate Event Spread, LIBOR Screen, if
                                           any, Calculation Agent, Default
                                           Rate, Maturity Date, redemption or
                                           repayment terms, if any, original
                                           issue discount terms, if any, and
                                           otherwise having identical terms and





                                      G-8
<PAGE>   85

                                           provisions, (collectively, the
                                           "Floating Rate Terms") will be
                                           represented initially by a single
                                           Global Note.

Identification:                            The Bank has arranged with the CUSIP
                                           Service Bureau of Standard & Poor's
                                           Ratings Group (the "CUSIP Service
                                           Bureau") for the reservation of one
                                           series of CUSIP numbers assignable
                                           to Notes with maturities more than
                                           one year and one series of CUSIP
                                           numbers assignable to Notes with
                                           maturities of 7 days or more up to
                                           and including one year, each of
                                           which series consists of
                                           approximately 900 CUSIP numbers
                                           which have been reserved for and
                                           relating to Global Notes, and the
                                           Bank has delivered to DTC such list
                                           of such CUSIP numbers.  The Issuing
                                           and Paying Agent will assign CUSIP
                                           numbers to Global Notes as described
                                           below under Settlement Procedure C.
                                           DTC will notify the CUSIP Service
                                           Bureau periodically of the CUSIP
                                           numbers that the Issuing and Paying
                                           Agent has assigned to the Global
                                           Notes.  The Issuing and Paying Agent
                                           will notify the Bank at any time
                                           when fewer than 100 of the reserved
                                           CUSIP numbers of any series remain
                                           unassigned to Global Notes and, if
                                           it deems it necessary, the Bank will
                                           reserve additional CUSIP numbers of
                                           such series for assignment to Global
                                           Notes.  Upon obtaining such
                                           additional CUSIP numbers, the Bank
                                           will deliver a list of such
                                           additional numbers to the Issuing
                                           and Paying Agent and DTC.
                                           Book-Entry Notes having an aggregate
                                           principal amount in excess of
                                           $200,000,000 and otherwise required
                                           to be represented by the same Global
                                           Note will instead be represented by
                                           two or more Global Notes which shall
                                           all be assigned the same CUSIP
                                           number.





                                      G-9
<PAGE>   86

Registration:                              Unless otherwise specified by DTC,
                                           each Global Note will be registered
                                           in the name of Cede & Co., as
                                           nominee for DTC, on the register
                                           maintained by the Issuing and Paying
                                           Agent.  The owner of a Book-Entry
                                           Note (i.e., an owner of a beneficial 
                                           interest in a Global Note) (or one
                                           or more indirect participants in DTC 
                                           designated by such owner) will
                                           designate one or more participants
                                           in DTC (with respect to such
                                           Book-Entry Note, the "Participants")
                                           to act as agent for such beneficial
                                           owner in connection with the
                                           book-entry system maintained by DTC,
                                           and DTC will record in book-entry
                                           form, in accordance with
                                           instructions provided by such
                                           Participants, a credit balance with
                                           respect to such Book- Entry Notes in
                                           the account of such Participants. 
                                           The ownership interest of such
                                           beneficial owner in such Global Note
                                           will be recorded through the records
                                           of such Participants or through the
                                           separate records of such
                                           Participants and one or more
                                           indirect participants in DTC.

Transfers:                                 Transfers of a beneficial interest
                                           in a Global Note will be
                                           accomplished by book entries made by
                                           DTC and, in turn, by Participants
                                           (and in certain cases, one or more
                                           indirect participants in DTC) acting
                                           on behalf of beneficial transferors
                                           and transferees of such Global Note.

Exchanges:                                 The Issuing and Paying Agent may
                                           deliver to DTC and the CUSIP Service
                                           Bureau at any time a written notice
                                           specifying (a) the CUSIP numbers of
                                           two or more Global Notes outstanding
                                           on such date that represent Notes
                                           having the same Fixed Rate Terms or
                                           Floating Rate Terms, as the case may
                                           be (other than Original Issue
                                           Dates), and for which interest has
                                           been





                                      G-10
<PAGE>   87

                                           paid to the same date; (b) a date,
                                           occurring at least 30 days after
                                           such written notice is delivered and
                                           at least 30 days before the next
                                           Interest Payment Date for the
                                           related Book-Entry Notes, on which
                                           such Global Notes shall be exchanged
                                           for one or more replacement Global
                                           Notes; and (c) a new CUSIP number,
                                           obtained from the Issuing and Paying
                                           Agent, to be assigned to such
                                           replacement Global Note.  Upon
                                           receipt of such notice, DTC will
                                           send to its Participants a written
                                           reorganization notice to the effect
                                           that such exchange will occur on
                                           such date.  Prior to the specified
                                           exchange date, the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent will deliver to the
                                           CUSIP Service Bureau written notice
                                           setting forth such exchange date and
                                           the new CUSIP number and stating
                                           that, as of such exchange date, the
                                           CUSIP numbers of the Global Notes to
                                           be exchanged will no longer be
                                           valid.  On the specified exchange
                                           date, the Issuing and Paying Agent
                                           will exchange such Global Notes for
                                           a single Global Note bearing the new
                                           CUSIP number, and the CUSIP numbers
                                           of the exchanged Global Notes will,
                                           in accordance with CUSIP Service
                                           Bureau procedures, be cancelled and
                                           not immediately reassigned.
                                           Notwithstanding the foregoing, if
                                           the Global Notes to be exchanged
                                           exceed $200,000,000 in aggregate
                                           principal amount, one replacement
                                           Global Note will be authenticated
                                           and issued to represent each
                                           $200,000,000 of principal amount of
                                           the exchanged Global Notes and an
                                           additional Global Note or Global
                                           Notes will be authenticated and
                                           issued in exchange for any remaining
                                           principal amount of such exchanged
                                           Global Notes representing such
                                           Book-Entry Notes (see
                                           "Denominations" below).





                                      G-11
<PAGE>   88

Denominations:                             All Book-Entry Notes will be
                                           denominated in U.S. dollars.
                                           Book-Entry Notes will be issued in
                                           minimum denominations of $250,000
                                           and integral multiples of $1,000 in
                                           excess thereof.  Global Notes
                                           representing Book-Entry Notes will
                                           be denominated in principal amounts
                                           not in excess of $200,000,000.  If
                                           one or more Book-Entry Notes having
                                           an aggregate principal amount in
                                           excess of $200,000,000 would, but
                                           for the preceding sentence, be
                                           represented by a single Global Note,
                                           then one Global Note will be issued
                                           to represent each $200,000,000
                                           principal amount of such Book-Entry
                                           Note or Notes and an additional
                                           Global Note or Global Notes will be
                                           issued to represent any remaining
                                           principal amount of such Book-Entry
                                           Notes.  In such case, each of the
                                           Global Notes representing such
                                           Book-Entry Notes shall be assigned
                                           the same CUSIP number.  Each owner
                                           of a beneficial interest in one or
                                           more Book-Entry Notes is required to
                                           hold that beneficial interest in
                                           denominations of $250,000 principal
                                           amount or any integral multiple of
                                           $1,000 in excess thereof of each
                                           such Book-Entry Note at all times.

Interest:                                  General.  Interest on each
                                           Book-Entry Note will accrue from the
                                           Original Issue Date or the most
                                           recent Interest Payment Date for
                                           which interest has been paid.  Each
                                           payment of interest on a Book-Entry
                                           Note shall include interest accrued
                                           through the day preceding, as the
                                           case may be, the Interest Payment
                                           Date, Maturity Date or date of
                                           earlier redemption or repayment.
                                           Interest payable on the Maturity
                                           Date or date of earlier redemption
                                           or repayment of a Book-Entry Note
                                           will be payable to the holder to
                                           whom the principal of such
                                           Book-Entry Note is payable.  DTC
                                           will





                                      G-12
<PAGE>   89

                                           arrange for each pending deposit
                                           message described under Settlement
                                           Procedure D below to be transmitted
                                           to Standard & Poor's Ratings Group,
                                           which will use the information in
                                           the message to include certain terms
                                           of the related Book- Entry Note in
                                           the appropriate daily bond report
                                           published by Standard & Poor's
                                           Ratings Group.

                                           Regular Record Dates.  Unless
                                           otherwise specified in the
                                           applicable Pricing Supplement, the
                                           Regular Record Date with respect to
                                           any Interest Payment Date for a
                                           Fixed Rate Book-Entry Note with a
                                           maturity of more than one year shall
                                           be the June 1 or December 1 next
                                           preceding the applicable Interest
                                           Payment Date. The Regular Record
                                           Date with respect to any Interest
                                           Payment Date for a Floating Rate
                                           Book-Entry Note shall be the date 15
                                           calendar days (whether or not a
                                           Business Day) prior to such Interest
                                           Payment Date. Unless otherwise
                                           specified in the applicable Pricing
                                           Supplement, interest on a Fixed Rate
                                           Book- Entry Note with a maturity of
                                           one year or less will be payable
                                           only at maturity to the person to
                                           whom principal shall be payable.

                                           Interest Payment Dates.  Interest
                                           payments will be made on each
                                           Interest Payment Date commencing
                                           with the first Interest Payment Date
                                           following the Original Issue Date;
                                           provided, however, that the first
                                           payment of interest on any Note
                                           originally issued between a Regular
                                           Record Date and an Interest Payment
                                           Date will be made on the second
                                           Interest Payment Date following the
                                           Original Issue Date.  If any
                                           Interest Payment Date of a Fixed
                                           Rate Book-Entry Note falls on a day
                                           which is not a Business Day, the
                                           related payment of interest on such
                                           Fixed Rate





                                      G-13
<PAGE>   90

                                           Book-Entry Note shall be made on the
                                           next succeeding Business Day with
                                           the same force and effect as if made
                                           on the date such payment was due,
                                           and no interest shall accrue on the
                                           amount so payable for the period
                                           from and after such Interest Payment
                                           Date. If any Interest Payment Date
                                           with respect to any Floating Rate
                                           Book-Entry Note would otherwise be a
                                           day that is not a Business Day, such
                                           Interest Payment Date will be the
                                           next succeeding Business Day, except
                                           that in the case of a LIBOR
                                           Book-Entry Note, if such Business
                                           Day is in the next succeeding
                                           calendar month, such Interest
                                           Payment Date will be the immediately
                                           preceding Business Day.

                                           Fixed Rate Book-Entry Notes.  Unless
                                           otherwise specified in the
                                           applicable Pricing Supplement,
                                           interest payments on Fixed Rate
                                           Book-Entry Notes having maturities
                                           of more than one year will be
                                           payable semi-annually on June 15 and
                                           December 15 of each year and on the
                                           Maturity Date.  Unless otherwise
                                           specified in the applicable Pricing
                                           Supplement, interest on Fixed Rate
                                           Book-Entry Notes having maturities
                                           of one year or less will be payable
                                           only at maturity.

                                           Floating Rate Notes.  
                                           Unless otherwise specified in the
                                           applicable Pricing Supplement,
                                           interest payments on Floating Rate
                                           Book-Entry Notes will be made as
                                           specified in the Floating Rate
                                           Book-Entry Note.

                                           Notice of Interest Payments and 
                                           Regular Record Dates.  On the first 
                                           Business Day after any Regular 
                                           Record Date, the Issuing and Paying 
                                           Agent will deliver to DTC a written 
                                           list of Regular Record Dates and 
                                           Interest Payment Dates that will 
                                           occur during the six-month period





                                      G-14
<PAGE>   91

                                           beginning on such first Business Day
                                           with respect to Floating Rate
                                           Book-Entry Notes.  Promptly after
                                           each Interest Determination Date for
                                           Floating Rate Book-Entry Notes, the
                                           Issuing and Paying Agent will notify
                                           Standard & Poor's Ratings Group of
                                           the interest rates determined on
                                           such Interest Determination Date.

Payments of Principal
  and Interest:                            Payments of Interest Only.  Promptly
                                           after each Regular Record Date, the
                                           Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                           deliver to the Bank and DTC a
                                           written notice specifying by CUSIP
                                           number the amount of interest to be
                                           paid on each Book- Entry Note on the
                                           following Interest Payment Date
                                           (other than an Interest Payment Date
                                           coinciding with the Maturity Date)
                                           and the total of such amounts.  DTC
                                           will confirm the amount payable on
                                           each Book-Entry Note on such
                                           Interest Payment Date by reference
                                           to the daily bond reports published
                                           by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group.
                                           On such Interest Payment Date, the
                                           Bank will pay to the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent, and the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent in turn will pay to
                                           DTC, an amount sufficient to pay the
                                           total amount of interest then due
                                           and owing (other than on the
                                           Maturity Date), at the times and in
                                           the manner set forth below under
                                           "Manner of Payment."

                                           Payments on the Maturity Date.
                                           On or about the first Business Day
                                           of each month, the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent will deliver to DTC a
                                           written list of principal of,
                                           premium, if any, and interest on,
                                           each Book-Entry Note maturing on any
                                           Maturity Date, date of earlier
                                           redemption or Holder's Optional
                                           Repayment Date in the following
                                           month.  The Issuing and Paying Agent
                                           and DTC will confirm the amounts of
                                           such principal of,





                                      G-15
<PAGE>   92

                                           premium, if any, and interest on, a
                                           Book-Entry Note on or about the
                                           fifth Business Day preceding the
                                           Maturity Date of such Book-Entry
                                           Note.  On such Maturity Date, the
                                           Bank will pay to the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent, and the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent in turn will pay to
                                           DTC, the principal amount of such
                                           Book-Entry Note, together with
                                           interest and premium, if any, due on
                                           such Maturity Date, at the times and
                                           in the manner set forth below under
                                           "Manner of Payment." If any Maturity
                                           Date or date of earlier redemption
                                           or repayment of a Fixed Rate
                                           Book-Entry Note falls on a day which
                                           is not a Business Day, the related
                                           payment of principal of, premium, if
                                           any, or interest on, such Fixed Rate
                                           Book-Entry Note shall be made on the
                                           next succeeding Business Day with
                                           the same force and effect as if made
                                           on the date such payment were due,
                                           and no interest shall accrue on the
                                           amount so payable for the period
                                           from and after such Maturity Date or
                                           date of earlier redemption or
                                           repayment, as the case may be.
                                           Floating Rate Book-Entry Notes will
                                           mature on an Interest Payment Date.
                                           If any Interest Payment Date or date
                                           of earlier redemption or repayment
                                           with respect to any Floating Rate
                                           Book-Entry Note would otherwise be a
                                           day that is not a Business Day, such
                                           Interest Payment Date or date of
                                           earlier redemption or repayment will
                                           be the next succeeding Business Day,
                                           except that in the case of a LIBOR
                                           Note, if such Business Day is in the
                                           next succeeding calendar month, such
                                           Interest Payment Date or date of
                                           earlier redemption or repayment will
                                           be the immediately preceding
                                           Business Day.  Promptly after
                                           payment to DTC of the principal of,
                                           premium, if any, and interest due
                                           on, the Maturity Date or





                                      G-16
<PAGE>   93
                                           Interest Payment Date of all
                                           Book-Entry Notes represented by a
                                           Global Note, the Issuing and Paying
                                           Agent will cancel such Global Note
                                           and deliver such Global Note to the
                                           Bank with an appropriate debit
                                           advice.  On the first Business Day
                                           of each month, the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent will deliver to the
                                           Bank a written statement indicating
                                           the total principal amount of
                                           outstanding Global Notes as of the
                                           close of business on the immediately
                                           preceding Business Day.

                                           Manner of Payment.  The total amount
                                           of any principal of, premium, if
                                           any, and interest on, Book-Entry
                                           Notes due on any Interest Payment
                                           Date or Maturity Date shall be paid
                                           by the Bank to the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent in immediately
                                           available funds available for use by
                                           the Issuing and Paying Agent no
                                           later than 10:00 A.M., New York City
                                           time, on such date.  The Bank will
                                           make such payment on such Book-Entry
                                           Notes by instructing the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent to withdraw funds from
                                           an account maintained by the Bank at
                                           the Issuing and Paying Agent.  The
                                           Bank will confirm such instructions
                                           in writing to the Issuing and Paying
                                           Agent.  Upon receipt of such funds,
                                           the Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                           pay by separate wire transfer (using
                                           message entry instructions in a form
                                           previously specified by DTC) to an
                                           account previously specified by DTC,
                                           in funds available for immediate use
                                           by DTC, each payment of principal
                                           of, premium, if any, and interest
                                           on, a Book-Entry Note on such date.
                                           Thereafter on such date, DTC will
                                           pay, in accordance with its SDFS
                                           operating procedures then in effect,
                                           such amounts in funds available for
                                           immediate use to the respective
                                           Participants in whose names
                                           Book-Entry Notes are recorded





                                      G-17
<PAGE>   94

                                           in the book-entry system maintained 
                                           by DTC.  Neither the Bank nor the
                                           Issuing and Paying Agent will have
                                           any responsibility or liability for
                                           the payment by DTC of the principal
                                           of, premium, if any, or interest on,
                                           the Book-Entry Notes to such
                                           Participants.

                                           Withholding Taxes.  The amount of any
                                           taxes required under applicable law
                                           to be withheld from any interest
                                           payment on a Book-Entry Note will be
                                           determined and withheld by the
                                           Participant, indirect participant in
                                           DTC or other person responsible for
                                           forwarding payments and materials
                                           directly to the beneficial owner of
                                           such Book-Entry Note.

Settlement
  Procedures:                              Settlement Procedures with regard to
                                           Book-Entry Notes purchased by each
                                           Agent as principal or sold by each
                                           Agent, as agent of the Bank, will be
                                           as follows:

                                           A.    The Presenting Agent will 
                                                 advise the Bank by telephone,
                                                 confirmed by facsimile, of the
                                                 following settlement
                                                 information:

                                                 1.  Taxpayer identification
                                                     number of the purchaser.

                                                 2.  Principal amount of such
                                                     Book-Entry Notes.

                                                 3.  (a) Fixed Rate Book-Entry
                                                         Notes:

                                                         (i)  Interest Rate;
                                                        (ii)  Interest Payment 
                                                              Dates for Fixed 
                                                              Rate Book- Entry
                                                              Notes; and
                                                       (iii)  Regular Record 
                                                              Dates for Fixed
                                                              Rate Book-Entry 
                                                              Notes with





                                      G-18
<PAGE>   95

                                                  maturities of more than one 
                                                  year (if other than the June 
                                                  1 or December 1 prior to each
                                                  Interest Payment Date).

                                        (b)     Floating Rate Book-Entry
                                                Notes:

                                                (i)  Initial Interest Rate;
                                               (ii)  Interest Rate Basis;
                                              (iii)  Index Maturity;
                                               (iv)  Spread and/or Spread
                                                     Multiplier, if any;
                                                (v)  Regular Record Dates (if
                                                     other than the 15th day 
                                                     prior to each Interest 
                                                     Payment Date);
                                               (vi)  Maximum Interest Rate, 
                                                     if any;
                                              (vii)  Minimum Interest Rate, if 
                                                     any;
                                             (viii)  Interest Payment Dates;
                                               (ix)  Interest Payment Period;
                                                (x)  Interest Reset Dates;
                                               (xi)  Calculation Agent;
                                              (xii)  Interest Reset Period;
                                             (xiii)  Alternate Rate Event 
                                                     Spread;
                                              (xiv)  LIBOR Screen, if any;

                                        4.     Price to public, if any, of such
                                               Book-Entry Notes (if such Book-
                                               Entry Notes are not being 
                                               offered "at the market").

                                        5.     Trade Date.





                                      G-19
<PAGE>   96

                                        6.     Settlement Date (Original Issue
                                               Date).

                                        7.     Maturity Date.

                                        8.     Redemption provisions, if any,
                                               including:  Initial
                                               Redemption Date, Initial
                                               Redemption Percentage and
                                               Annual Redemption Percentage
                                               Reduction.

                                               Repayment provisions, if any,
                                               including:  Holder's Optional
                                               Repayment Date(s).

                                        9.     Net proceeds to the Bank.

                                        10.    Whether such Book-Entry Notes
                                               are being sold to the
                                               Presenting Agent as principal
                                               or to an investor or other
                                               purchaser through the
                                               Presenting Agent acting as
                                               agent for the Bank.

                                        11.    The Presenting Agent's
                                               commission or discount, as
                                               applicable.

                                        12.    Whether such Book-Entry Notes
                                               are being issued with Original 
                                               Issue Discount and the terms 
                                               thereof.

                                        13.    Default Rate.

                                        14.    Such other information specified
                                               with respect to such Book-Entry
                                               Notes.

                                  B.    If any offer to purchase a Note
                                        is accepted by the Bank, the Bank, with
                                        the approval of the Presenting
                                        Agent, will prepare a Pricing
                                        Supplement reflecting the information
                                        set forth in Settlement Procedure A
                                        above, and will transmit the Pricing
                                        Supplement





                                      G-20
<PAGE>   97

                                        to the Presenting Agent by electronic
                                        or facsimile transmission.

                                  C.    The Bank will advise the Issuing
                                        and Paying Agent by electronic means,
                                        telephone (confirmed in writing at any
                                        time on the same date), facsimile
                                        transmission or by other acceptable
                                        means of the information set forth in
                                        Settlement Procedure A above, and the
                                        name of the Presenting Agent.  The
                                        Issuing and Paying Agent, on behalf of
                                        the Bank, will assign a CUSIP number of
                                        the appropriate series to the Global
                                        Note representing such Book-Entry Notes
                                        and will notify the Bank by facsimile
                                        transmission or other electronic
                                        transmission of such CUSIP number as
                                        soon as practicable, and as soon
                                        thereafter as practicable, the Bank
                                        will notify the Presenting Agent by
                                        telephone of such CUSIP number.  Each
                                        such instruction given by the Bank to
                                        the Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                        constitute a representation and
                                        warranty by the Bank to the Issuing and
                                        Paying Agent and the Agents that (i)
                                        the issuance and delivery of such
                                        Global Note has been duly and validly
                                        authorized by the Bank and (ii) that
                                        such Global Note, when completed,
                                        authenticated and delivered pursuant to
                                        the Issuing and Paying Agency
                                        Agreement, will constitute the valid
                                        and legally binding obligation of the
                                        Bank.

                                  D.    The Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                        communicate to DTC and the
                                        Presenting Agent through DTC's
                                        Participant Terminal System, a pending
                                        deposit message specifying the
                                        following settlement information:






                                      G-21
<PAGE>   98

                                        1.     The information set forth in
                                               Settlement Procedure A.

                                        2.     The identification numbers of
                                               the participant accounts
                                               maintained by DTC on behalf
                                               of the Issuing and Paying
                                               Agent and the Presenting
                                               Agent.

                                        3.     Identification as a Fixed Rate
                                               Book-Entry Note or Floating
                                               Rate Book-Entry Note.

                                        4.     The initial Interest Payment
                                               Date for each Global Note
                                               representing such Book-Entry
                                               Notes, the number of days by
                                               which such date succeeds the
                                               related Regular Record Date
                                               for DTC purposes and, if then
                                               calculable, the amount of
                                               interest payable on such
                                               Interest Payment Date (which
                                               amount shall have been
                                               confirmed by the Issuing and
                                               Paying Agent).

                                        5.     The CUSIP number of each Global
                                               Note representing such Book-
                                               Entry Notes.

                                        6.     Whether such Global Note
                                               represents any other Notes
                                               issued or to be issued in
                                               book-entry form.

                                  E.    The Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                        complete, authenticate and deliver
                                        to DTC by retention as custodian for
                                        DTC the Global Note representing such
                                        Book-Entry Notes in a form that has
                                        been approved by the Bank, the Issuing
                                        and Paying Agent and the Agents.





                                      G-22
<PAGE>   99

                                  F.    DTC will credit the Book-Entry
                                        Notes represented by such
                                        Global Note to the participant account
                                        of the Issuing and Paying Agent
                                        maintained by DTC except as provided in
                                        Settlement Procedure H below.

                                  G.    The Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                        enter an SDFS deliver order
                                        through DTC's Participant Terminal
                                        System instructing DTC (i) to debit
                                        such Book-Entry Notes to the Issuing
                                        and Paying Agent's participant account
                                        and credit such Book-Entry Notes to the
                                        participant account of the Presenting
                                        Agent maintained by DTC and (ii) to
                                        debit the settlement account of the
                                        Presenting Agent and credit the
                                        settlement account of the Issuing and
                                        Paying Agent maintained by DTC, in an
                                        amount equal to the price of such
                                        Book-Entry Notes less such Agent's
                                        commission.  Any entry of such deliver
                                        order shall be deemed to constitute a
                                        representation and warranty by the
                                        Issuing and Paying Agent to DTC that
                                        (i) the Global Note representing such
                                        Book-Entry Notes has been issued and
                                        authenticated and (ii) the Issuing and
                                        Paying Agent is holding such Global
                                        Note pursuant to the Certificate
                                        Agreement.

                                  H.    In the case of Book-Entry Notes
                                        sold through an Agent acting as
                                        agent, the Presenting Agent will enter
                                        an SDFS deliver order through DTC's
                                        Participant Terminal System instructing
                                        DTC (i) to debit such Book- Entry Notes
                                        to the Presenting Agent's participant
                                        account and credit such Book-Entry
                                        Notes to the participant account of the
                                        Participants maintained by DTC and (ii)
                                        to debit 





                                      G-23
<PAGE>   100

                                           the settlement accounts of such
                                           Participants and credit the
                                           settlement account of the Presenting
                                           Agent maintained by DTC, in an
                                           amount equal to the initial public
                                           offering price of such Book-Entry
                                           Notes.

                                     I.    Transfers of funds in accordance
                                           with SDFS deliver orders described 
                                           in Settlement Procedures G and H 
                                           will be settled in accordance
                                           with SDFS operating procedures in
                                           effect on the Settlement Date.

                                     J.    The Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                           credit to an account of the Bank
                                           maintained at the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent funds available for
                                           immediate use in the amount
                                           transferred to the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent in accordance with
                                           Settlement Procedure G.

                                     K.    In the case of Book-Entry Notes
                                           sold through an Agent acting as
                                           agent, the Presenting Agent will
                                           confirm the purchase of such
                                           Book-Entry Notes to the purchaser
                                           either by transmitting to the
                                           Participant with respect to such
                                           Book-Entry Notes a confirmation
                                           order through DTC's Participant
                                           Terminal System or by mailing a
                                           written confirmation to such
                                           purchaser.

Settlement Procedures
  Timetable:                               For offers to purchase Book-Entry
                                           Notes accepted by the Bank,
                                           Settlement Procedures A through K
                                           set forth above shall be completed
                                           as soon as possible.  However, all
                                           information on sales settling one
                                           day or more after the Trade Date
                                           will be transmitted to DTC no later
                                           than 10:00 a.m. on the Settlement
                                           Date.





                                      G-24
<PAGE>   101


                                           If a sale is to be settled on the 
                                           same Business Day as the Trade Date,
                                           Settlement Procedure A shall be
                                           completed no later than 11:00 a.m.
                                           on such Business Day, Settlement
                                           Procedure C shall be completed no
                                           later than 12:00 p.m. on such
                                           Business Day, and Settlement
                                           Procedure D shall be completed no
                                           later than 1:00 p.m. on such
                                           Business Day.

                                           If a sale is to be settled more than
                                           one Business Day after the Trade
                                           Date, Settlement Procedures A and B
                                           must be completed no later than 4:00
                                           p.m. on the Trade Date and
                                           Settlement Procedures C and D may,
                                           if necessary, be completed at any
                                           time on the first Business Day after
                                           such Trade Date.  Settlement
                                           Procedure I is subject to extension
                                           in accordance with any extension of
                                           Fedwire closing deadlines and in the
                                           other events specified in the SDFS
                                           operating procedures in effect on
                                           the Settlement Date.

                                           If settlement of a Book-Entry Note is
                                           rescheduled or cancelled, the
                                           Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                           deliver to DTC, through DTC's
                                           Participant Terminal System, a
                                           cancellation message to such effect
                                           by no later than 2:00 p.m., New York
                                           City time, on the Business Day
                                           immediately preceding the scheduled
                                           Settlement Date.

Failure to Settle:                         If the Issuing and Paying Agent
                                           fails to enter an SDFS deliver order
                                           with respect to a Book-Entry Note
                                           pursuant to Settlement Procedure G,
                                           then the Issuing and Paying Agent
                                           may deliver to DTC, through DTC's
                                           Participant Terminal System, as soon
                                           as practicable a withdrawal message
                                           instructing DTC to debit such
                                           Book-Entry Note to the participant
                                           account of the Issuing and Paying
                                           Agent





                                      G-25
<PAGE>   102

                                           maintained at DTC.  DTC will process
                                           the withdrawal message, provided
                                           that such participant account
                                           contains a principal amount of the
                                           Global Note representing such
                                           Book-Entry Note that is at least
                                           equal to the principal amount to be
                                           debited.  If withdrawal messages are
                                           processed with respect to all
                                           Book-Entry Notes represented by a
                                           Global Note, the Issuing and Paying
                                           Agent will mark such Global Note
                                           "cancelled," make appropriate
                                           entries in its records and return
                                           such Global Note to the Bank.  The
                                           CUSIP number assigned to such Global
                                           Note shall, in accordance with CUSIP
                                           Service Bureau procedures, be
                                           cancelled and not immediately
                                           reassigned.  If withdrawal messages
                                           are processed with respect to some
                                           of the Book-Entry Notes represented
                                           by a Global Note, the Issuing and
                                           Paying Agent will exchange such
                                           Global Note for two Global Notes,
                                           one of which shall represent the
                                           Book-Entry Notes for which such
                                           withdrawal messages are processed
                                           and shall be cancelled immediately
                                           after issuance, and the other of
                                           which shall represent the other
                                           Book-Entry Notes previously
                                           represented by the surrendered
                                           Global Note and shall bear the CUSIP
                                           number of the surrendered Global
                                           Note.

                                           In the case of any Book-Entry Note 
                                           sold through an Agent, acting as 
                                           agent, if the purchase price for any
                                           Book-Entry Note is not timely paid
                                           to the Participants with respect to
                                           such Book-Entry Note by the
                                           beneficial purchaser thereof (or a
                                           person, including an indirect
                                           participant in DTC, acting on behalf
                                           of such purchaser), such
                                           Participants and, in turn, the
                                           applicable Agent may enter SDFS
                                           deliver orders through DTC's
                                           Participant Terminal System
                                           reversing the orders entered
                                           pursuant to Settlement Procedures





                                      G-26
<PAGE>   103

                                           G and H, respectively. Thereafter, 
                                           the Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                           deliver the withdrawal message and
                                           take the related actions described
                                           in the preceding paragraph.  If such
                                           failure shall have occurred for any
                                           reason other than default by the
                                           applicable Agent to perform its
                                           obligations hereunder or under the
                                           Distribution Agreement, the Bank
                                           will reimburse such Agent on an
                                           equitable basis for its loss of the
                                           use of funds during the period when
                                           the funds were credited to the
                                           account of the Bank.

                                           Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon
                                           any failure to settle with respect 
                                           to a Book-Entry Note, DTC may take 
                                           any actions in accordance with its 
                                           SDFS operating procedures then in 
                                           effect. In the event of a failure to 
                                           settle with respect to a Book-Entry
                                           Note that was to have been
                                           represented by a Global Note also
                                           representing other Book-Entry Notes,
                                           the Issuing and Paying Agent will
                                           provide, in accordance with
                                           Settlement Procedure E, for the
                                           authentication and issuance of a
                                           Global Note representing such
                                           remaining Book- Entry Notes and will
                                           make appropriate entries in its
                                           records. 





                                      G-27
<PAGE>   104
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 (CONT.)




                          BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO


                      ISSUING AND PAYING AGENCY AGREEMENT


                 THIS AGREEMENT, dated as of September 24, 1996, between Banco
Popular de Puerto Rico, a banking association chartered under the laws of the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (the "Bank") and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as
issuing and paying agent (the "Issuing and Paying Agent," which term shall also
refer to any duly appointed successor thereto).

                                  WITNESSETH:

                 Section 1.  Appointment of Issuing and Paying Agent.  The Bank
proposes to issue from time to time its Bank Notes (each, a "Bank Note" and
collectively, the "Bank Notes") in such amounts as may be duly authorized by
the Bank pursuant to the Distribution Agreement dated September 24, 1996 (the
"Distribution Agreement"), among the Bank and the agents named therein (the
"Agents").

         Each Bank Note will be issued in book-entry form and will be
represented by a global certificate (each, a "Global Bank Note" and
collectively, the "Global Bank Notes") registered in the name of The Depository
Trust Company, as depository ("DTC", which term includes any successor
thereof), or a nominee thereof (which successor shall be a clearing agency
registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, if so
required by applicable law) (each beneficial interest in a Global Bank Note, a
"Book-Entry Bank Note" and collectively, the "Book-Entry Bank Notes").

         The Bank hereby appoints the Issuing and Paying Agent to act, on the
terms and conditions specified herein, as issuing and paying agent for the
Global Bank Notes and as registrar, transfer agent and authenticating agent for
the Global Bank Notes and to perform such other responsibilities as are
described herein and in the Administrative Procedures attached as Exhibit G to
the Distribution Agreement as such Administrative Procedures may be amended
from time to time by agreement of the Bank and the Agents with notice of such
amendments to the Issuing and Paying Agent, and the Issuing
<PAGE>   105

and Paying Agent hereby accepts such appointments.  The aggregate principal
amount of the Global Bank Notes which may be issued pursuant to this Agreement
outstanding at any one time is unlimited.

         The Issuing and Paying Agent shall exercise due care in the
performance of its obligations hereunder and shall perform such obligations in
a manner consistent with industry standards.





                                       2
<PAGE>   106

                 Section 2.  Global Bank Note Forms; Terms; Execution.

                 (i)      The Global Bank Notes shall be substantially (i) in
the form set forth in Exhibit A-1 hereto if such Global Bank Note bears
interest at a fixed rate of interest (each such Global Bank Note, a "Fixed Rate
Global Bank Note" and collectively, the  "Fixed Rate Global Bank Notes"), (ii)
in the form of Exhibit A-2 hereto if such Global Bank Note bears interest at a
floating rate of interest determined by reference to an interest rate basis
specified therein (each such Global Bank Note, a "Floating Rate Global Bank
Note" and collectively, the "Floating Rate Global Bank Notes"), or (iii) in
such other form as the Bank may from time to time designate.

                 (ii)     Each issued Bank Note shall have a maturity of 7 days
to 15 years from its original date of issuance.  The Bank Notes shall be issued
in minimum denominations of $250,000 and in integral multiples of $1,000 in
excess thereof.

                 The interest rate borne by any particular Global Bank Note may
vary from the interest rates borne by any other Global Bank Notes.  Any such
variation shall not affect the interest rate borne by any other Global Bank
Notes previously issued hereunder.

                 (iii)    The Bank will from time to time deliver or cause to
be delivered to the Issuing and Paying Agent a supply of blank Global Bank
Notes in such quantities as the Bank shall determine, bearing consecutive
control numbers.  Each Global Bank Note will have been executed by the manual
or facsimile signature of an Authorized Representative (as defined in Section 3
hereof) of the Bank.  The Issuing and Paying Agent will acknowledge receipt of
the Global Bank Notes delivered to it and will hold such blank Global Bank
Notes in safekeeping in accordance with its customary practice and shall
complete, authenticate and deliver such Global Bank Notes in accordance with
the provisions hereof.

                 Section 3.  Authorized Representatives.  From time to time,
the Bank will furnish the Issuing and Paying Agent with a certificate executed
by an officer of the Bank certifying the incumbency and specimen signatures of
those officers of the Bank authorized to execute Global Bank Notes on behalf of
the Bank by manual or facsimile signature and to give instructions and notices
on behalf of the Bank hereunder (the "Authorized Representatives").  Until the
Issuing and Paying Agent receives a subsequent certificate, the Issuing and
Paying Agent shall be entitled to rely





                                       3
<PAGE>   107

on the last such certificate delivered to it for the purposes of determining
the identities of Authorized Representatives of the Bank.  Any Global Bank Note
bearing the manual or facsimile signatures of persons who are Authorized
Representatives of the Bank on the date such signatures are affixed shall bind
the Bank after the completion, authentication and delivery thereof by the
Issuing and Paying Agent, notwithstanding that such persons shall have ceased
to hold office on the date such Global Bank Note is so completed, authenticated
and delivered by the Issuing and Paying Agent.

                 Section 4.  Issuance Instructions; Completion, Authentication
and Delivery of Global Bank Notes.

                 (i)      All instructions regarding the completion,
authentication and delivery of Global Bank Notes shall be given by an
Authorized Representative of the Bank by telephone (confirmed in writing), by
facsimile transmission or by other acceptable written means by such Authorized
Representative.

                 (ii)     Upon receipt of the instructions described above, the
Issuing and Paying Agent shall cause to be withdrawn the necessary and
applicable Global Bank Notes from safekeeping and, in accordance with such
instructions, shall:

                 (a)      complete each Global Bank Note;

                 (b)      record each Global Bank Note in the Bank Note
                          Register (as defined in Section 10 hereof);

                 (c)      cause each Global Bank Note to be manually
                          authenticated by any one of the signatories of the
                          Issuing and Paying Agent duly authorized and
                          designated by it for such purpose; and

                 (d)      hold each Global Bank Note in safekeeping on behalf
                          of the registered holder thereof;

provided that instructions regarding the completion and authentication of a
Global Bank Note, whether delivered by facsimile transmission or by other
written means, are received by the Issuing and Paying Agent by 11:00 A.M., New
York City time, on the Business Day immediately preceding the date of
settlement relating to such Global Bank Note (or 9:00 A.M., New York City time,
on the date of





                                       4
<PAGE>   108

settlement relating to such Bank Note if the trade date and the date of
settlement relating to such Bank Note are the same day).  As used in this
Agreement, the term "Business Day" shall mean any day that is not a Saturday or
Sunday and that is not a day which is a bank holiday in Puerto Rico or a day on
which banking institutions in The City of New York or the city in which the
Bank is headquartered are authorized or required by law, regulation or
executive order to close, and with respect to LIBOR Notes (as defined in the
applicable Floating Rate Global Bank Note) only, any day that is also a London
Business Day.  As used in this Agreement, "London Business Day" means any day
on which dealings in deposits in U.S. dollars are transacted in the London
interbank market.

                 Section 5.  Reliance on Instructions; Request for
Instructions.  The Issuing and Paying Agent shall incur no liability to the
Bank in acting hereunder upon instructions contemplated hereby which the
Issuing and Paying Agent reasonably believed in good faith to have been given
by an Authorized Representative of the Bank.  In the event a discrepancy exists
between the instructions as originally received by the Issuing and Paying Agent
and any subsequent written confirmation thereof, such original instructions
will be deemed controlling; provided that the Issuing and Paying Agent gives
notice to the Bank of such discrepancy promptly upon the receipt of such
written confirmation.

         Any application by the Issuing and Paying Agent for written
instructions from the Bank may, at the option of the Issuing and Paying Agent,
set forth in writing any action proposed to be taken or omitted by the Issuing
and Paying Agent under this Agreement and the date on and/or after which such
action shall be taken or such omission shall be effective.  The Issuing and
Paying Agent shall not be required, however, to follow any such proposal in the
absence of further written instructions from the Bank.  The Issuing and Paying
Agent shall not be liable for any action taken by, or omission of, the Issuing
and Paying Agent in accordance with a proposal included in such application on
or after the date specified in such application (which date shall not be less
than three Business Days after the date any officer of the Bank actually
receives such application, unless any such officer shall have consented in
writing to any earlier date) unless prior to taking any such action (or the
effective date in the case of an omission), the Issuing and Paying Agent shall
have received written instructions in response to such application specifying
the action to be taken or omitted.





                                       5
<PAGE>   109


                 Section 6.  The Bank's Representations and Warranties.  Each
instruction given to the Issuing and Paying Agent in accordance with Section 4
hereof shall constitute a representation and warranty to the Issuing and Paying
Agent by the Bank that the issuance and delivery of the Global Bank Notes have
been duly and validly authorized by the Bank and that the Global Bank Notes,
when completed and authenticated pursuant hereto, will constitute the valid and
legally binding obligations of the Bank subject to applicable bankruptcy,
liquidation, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of general
applicability relating to, or affecting, creditors' rights and to general
equity principles.  The Bank further warrants that it is free to enter into
this Agreement and to perform the terms hereof.

                 Section 7.  Payments of Interest; Interest Payment Dates;
Record Dates.  Interest payments on Global Bank Notes with maturities of more
than one year will be made: (i) in the case of the Fixed Rate Global Bank
Notes, semi-annually on June 15 and December 15 of each year (unless otherwise
specified in any applicable Fixed Rate Global Bank Notes) and (ii) in the case
of Floating Rate Global Bank Notes, on such dates as are specified therein
(collectively, the "Interest Payment Dates") and, in each case, at maturity or
upon earlier redemption or repayment if so indicated in the applicable Global
Bank Note.  All such interest payments (other than interest due at maturity or
upon earlier redemption or repayment) will be made to the Holders (as defined
in Section 10 hereof) in whose names Fixed Rate Global Bank Notes are
registered at the close of business on the June 1 or December 1 (unless
otherwise specified in any applicable Fixed Rate Global Bank Notes) (whether or
not a Business Day) next preceding such Interest Payment Dates and in whose
names Floating Rate Global Bank Notes are registered at the close of business
on the fifteenth calendar day (whether or not a Business Day) prior to each
such Interest Payment Date (each such June 1, December 1 and fifteenth calendar
day, a "Record Date").  Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Original Issue
Date of any Global Bank Note with a maturity of more than one year occurs
between a Record Date and the next succeeding Interest Payment Date, the first
payment of interest on any such Global Bank Note will be made on the second
Interest Payment Date succeeding the Original Issue Date (as defined in the
Global Bank Notes).  Interest payments will be calculated and made in the
manner provided in the applicable Global Bank Note.





                                       6
<PAGE>   110

         If the Bank does not deposit adequate funds pursuant to Section 9
hereof with respect to the interest due on a Global Bank Note with a maturity
of more than one year on an Interest Payment Date, such interest will cease to
be due to the Holder of such Global Bank Note as of the close of business on
the Record Date relating to such Interest Payment Date and will be paid to the
Holder of such Global Bank Note as of the close of business on a special record
date to be fixed by the Issuing and Paying Agent when funds for the payment of
such interest have been deposited pursuant to Section 9 hereof.  Notice of such
special record date shall be given by the Issuing and Paying Agent, at the
Bank's expense, to the registered Holder of such Global Bank Note not less than
10 calendar days prior to such special record date.

         Interest payments on Fixed Rate Global Bank Notes with maturities of
one year or less will be made only upon maturity upon presentation and
surrender of the applicable Fixed Rate Global Bank Note (unless otherwise
specified in the applicable Fixed Rate Global Bank Note).  Interest payments on
Fixed Rate Global Bank Notes with maturities of one year or more will be
calculated in the manner provided in the applicable Fixed Rate Global Bank
Note.  Interest payments on Floating Rate Global Bank Notes with maturities of
one year or more will be made on the Interest Payment Dates specified in such
Floating Rate Global Bank Note and, in each case, at maturity or upon earlier
redemption or repayment.  Interest payments on Floating Rate Global Bank Notes
with maturities of one year or less will be calculated in the manner provided
in the applicable Floating Rate Global Bank Note.

                 Section 8.  Payment of Principal.  The Issuing and Paying
Agent will pay the Holder of each Global Bank Note the principal amount of each
such Global Bank Note, together with accrued interest and premium, if any, at
maturity or upon earlier redemption or repayment.

                 Section 9.  Deposit of Funds.  The total amount of any
principal of, premium, if any, and interest due on Global Bank Notes on any
Interest Payment Date or any maturity date or date of redemption or repayment
shall be paid by the Bank to the Issuing and Paying Agent as of 10:00 A.M., New
York City time, in funds available for use by the Issuing and Paying Agent on
such date.  The Bank will make such payment on such Global Bank Notes via
Fedwire to an account specified by the Issuing and Paying Agent.  Upon receipt
of funds from the Bank, on such date or as soon as





                                       7
<PAGE>   111

possible thereafter, the Issuing and Paying Agent will pay by separate wire
transfer (using message entry instructions in a form previously specified by
DTC) to an account previously specified by DTC, in funds available for
immediate use by DTC, each payment of principal of, premium, if any, and
interest due on a Global Bank Note on such date.

         The Issuing and Paying Agent shall hold such amounts paid to it by the
Bank in trust for the Holders but shall, pending payment by it to the account
specified above, not be under any liability for interest on monies at any time
received by it pursuant to any of the terms of this Agreement or of the Global
Bank Notes, nor shall the Issuing and Paying Agent be required to invest such
monies.

                 Section 10.  Bank Note Register; Registration, Transfer,
Exchange; Persons Deemed Owners.

                 (i)      The Issuing and Paying Agent shall maintain at its
offices the Bank Note Register.  The Issuing and Paying Agent is hereby
appointed as Registrar for the purpose of registering each Global Bank Note and
transfers of each Global Bank Note as herein provided.  The term "Bank Note
Register" shall mean the definitive record in which shall be recorded the
names, addresses and taxpayer identifying numbers of the holders of the Global
Bank Notes (the "Holders"), the serial and CUSIP numbers of each such Global
Bank Note and the Original Issue Date thereof and details with respect to the
transfer and exchange of each Global Bank Note.

                 (ii)     Upon surrender for registration of transfer of any
Global Bank Note at the offices of the Issuing and Paying Agent, the Bank shall
execute, and the Issuing and Paying Agent shall complete, authenticate and
deliver, in the name of the designated transferee or transferees, one or more
new Global Bank Notes, of any authorized denominations and having identical
terms and provisions and for an equal aggregate principal amount.

                 (iii)    At the option of the Holder of a Global Bank Note,
such Global Bank Note may be exchanged for other Global Bank Notes of any
authorized denominations of an equal aggregate principal amount and having
identical terms and provisions, upon surrender of the Global Bank Notes to be
exchanged at the designated offices of the Issuing and Paying Agent.  Whenever
any Global Bank Notes are so surrendered for exchange, the Bank shall execute,
and the





                                       8
<PAGE>   112

Issuing and Paying Agent shall complete, authenticate and deliver, the Global
Bank Notes which the Holder of the Global Bank Note making the exchange is
entitled to receive.  Except as provided below, owners of beneficial interests
in a Global Bank Note representing Book-Entry Bank Notes will not be entitled
to have such Book-Entry Bank Notes registered in their names, will not receive
or be entitled to receive physical delivery of Bank Notes in certificated form
and will not be considered the owners or holders thereof under this Agreement.
However, if DTC notifies the Bank that it is unwilling or unable to continue as
depositary or if at any time DTC ceases to be a clearing agency registered
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and a successor
depositary is not appointed by the Bank within 60 days, or the Bank in its sole
discretion determines not to have Book-Entry Bank Notes represented by one or
more Global Bank Notes, then Global Bank Notes representing Book-Entry Bank
Notes may be exchanged in whole for definitive Bank Notes in registered form,
of like tenor and of an equal aggregate principal amount, in minimum
denominations of $250,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof,
upon surrender of the Global Bank Notes to be exchanged at the offices of the
Issuing and Paying Agent.

             (iv)         Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Issuing and Paying
Agent shall not register the transfer of or exchange (i) any Global Bank Note
that has been called for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed
portion of Global Bank Notes being redeemed in part, (ii) any Global Bank Note
during the period beginning at the opening of business 15 days before the
mailing of a notice of such redemption and ending at the close of business on
the day of such mailing, or (iii) any Global Bank Note in violation of the
legend contained on the face of such Global Bank Note.

             (v)      All Global Bank Notes issued upon any registration of
transfer or exchange of Global Bank Notes shall be the valid obligations of the
Bank, evidencing the same debt, and entitled to the same benefits as the Global
Bank Notes surrendered upon such registration of transfer or exchange.

             (vi)         Every Global Bank Note presented or surrendered for
registration of transfer or for exchange shall be duly endorsed, or be
accompanied by a written instrument of transfer with such evidence of due
authorization and guaranty of signature as may reasonably be required by the
Issuing and Paying Agent, in form





                                       9
<PAGE>   113

satisfactory to the Issuing and Paying Agent, duly executed by the Holder
thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing.

                 (vii)    No service charge shall be made to a Holder of Global
Bank Notes for any transfer or exchange of Global Bank Notes, but the Bank may
require the payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental
charge that may be imposed in connection therewith.

                 (viii)   The Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent, and any
agent of the Bank or the Issuing and Paying Agent may treat the Holder in whose
name a Global Bank Note is registered as the owner of such Global Bank Note for
all purposes, whether or not such Global Bank Note be overdue, and neither the
Bank, the Issuing and Paying Agent nor any such agent shall be affected by
notice to the contrary except as required by applicable law.

                 Section 11.  Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost, or Stolen Global Bank
Notes.  In case any Global Bank Note shall at any time become mutilated,
destroyed, lost or stolen, and such Global Bank Note or evidence of the loss,
theft or destruction thereof satisfactory to the Bank and the Issuing and
Paying Agent (together with indemnity hereinafter referred to and such other
documents or proof as may be required by the Bank and the Issuing and Paying
Agent) shall be delivered to the Issuing and Paying Agent, the Bank shall
execute a new Global Bank Note, of like tenor and principal amount, having a
serial number not contemporaneously outstanding, in exchange and substitution
for the mutilated Global Bank Note or in lieu of the Global Bank Note
destroyed, lost or stolen but, in the case of any destroyed, lost or stolen
Global Bank Note, only upon receipt of evidence satisfactory to Issuing and
Paying Agent and the Bank that such Global Bank Note was destroyed, stolen or
lost, and, if required, upon receipt of indemnity satisfactory to each of them.
The Issuing and Paying Agent shall authenticate any such substituted Global
Bank Note and deliver the same upon the written request or authorization of any
Authorized Representative of the Bank.  Upon the issuance of any substituted
Global Bank Note, the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent may require the
payment of a sum sufficient to cover all expenses and reasonable charges
connected with the preparation, authentication and delivery of a new Global
Bank Note.  If any Global Bank Note which has matured or has been redeemed or
repaid or is about to mature or to be redeemed or repaid shall become
mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen, the Bank may, instead of issuing a
substitute Global Bank Note, pay or





                                       10
<PAGE>   114

authorize the payment of the same (without surrender thereof except in the case
of a mutilated Global Bank Note) upon compliance by the Holder with the
provisions of this Section.

                 Section 12.  Cancellation.  All Global Bank Notes surrendered
for payment, registration of transfer or exchange shall, if surrendered to any
person other than the Issuing and Paying Agent, be delivered to the Issuing and
Paying Agent and shall be promptly cancelled by it.  The Bank may at any time
deliver to the Issuing and Paying Agent for cancellation any Global Bank Notes
previously authenticated and delivered hereunder which the Bank may have
acquired in any manner whatsoever, and all Global Bank Notes so delivered shall
be promptly cancelled by the Issuing and Paying Agent.  No Global Bank Note
shall be authenticated in lieu of or in exchange for any Global Bank Note
cancelled as provided in this Section, except as expressly permitted by this
Agreement.  All cancelled Global Bank Notes held by the Issuing and Paying
Agent shall be returned to the Bank.

                 Section 13.  Redemption of Global Bank Notes.

                 (i)      If any Global Bank Notes are to be redeemed prior to
maturity, the Bank shall notify the Issuing and Paying Agent not more than 60
nor less than 45 calendar days prior to the date fixed by the Bank for such
redemption (the "Redemption Date") of the Bank's election to redeem such Global
Bank Notes in whole or in part in increments of $1,000 (provided that any
remaining principal amount of such Global Bank Notes shall be at least
$250,000).

                 (ii)     Whenever less than all the Global Bank Notes at any
time outstanding are to be redeemed, the terms of the Global Bank Notes to be
so redeemed shall be selected by the Bank.  If less than all the Global Bank
Notes with identical terms at any time outstanding are to be redeemed, the
Global Bank Notes to be so redeemed shall be selected by the Issuing and Paying
Agent by lot or in any usual manner approved by it.  The Issuing and Paying
Agent shall promptly notify the Bank in writing of the Global Bank Notes
selected for redemption and, in the case of Global Bank Notes selected for
partial redemption, the principal amount thereof to be redeemed.

                 (iii)    Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Global
Bank Note, notice of redemption shall be given by the Issuing and Paying Agent,
at the Bank's expense, by first-class mail, postage





                                       11
<PAGE>   115

prepaid, mailed not more than 60 nor less than 30 calendar days prior to the
Redemption Date, to each Holder of such Global Bank Note to be redeemed, at its
address appearing in the Bank Note Register.  All notices of redemption shall
identify the Global Bank Notes to be redeemed (including CUSIP number) and
shall state:  (i) the Redemption Date; (ii) the redemption price, which shall
be determined in accordance with the terms of the Global Bank Note (the
"Redemption Price"), (iii) if less than all of the Global Bank Notes at any
time outstanding are to be redeemed, the identification (and, in the case of
partial redemption, the principal amounts) of the particular Global Bank Notes
to be redeemed; (iv) that on the Redemption Date the Redemption Price plus
accrued interest, if any, to the Redemption Date will become due and payable
with respect to each Global Bank Note to be redeemed and that interest thereon
will cease to accrue on and after said date; and (v) the place or places where
such Global Bank Notes are to be surrendered for payment.

                 (iv)     Notice of redemption having been given as described
above, the Global Bank Notes so to be redeemed shall, on the Redemption Date,
become due and payable at the Redemption Price, and from and after such date
such Global Bank Notes shall cease to bear interest.  The Bank shall deposit
funds with the Issuing and Paying Agent prior to the Redemption Date which are
sufficient to redeem such Global Bank Notes which are scheduled to be so
redeemed.  Upon surrender of any such Global Bank Notes for redemption in
accordance with such notice, the Issuing and Paying Agent shall pay such Global
Bank Notes at the Redemption Price, together with unpaid interest accrued on
such Global Bank Notes at the applicable rate borne by such Global Bank Notes
to the Redemption Date.

                 (v)      Any Global Bank Note which is to be redeemed only in
part shall be surrendered to the Issuing and Paying Agent, and the Issuing and
Paying Agent shall complete, authenticate and deliver to the Holder of such
Global Bank Note, without service charge, a new Global Bank Note or Global Bank
Notes, of any authorized denomination as requested by such Holder (which shall
be $250,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof), in an
aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for the unredeemed portion
of the principal of the Global Bank Note so surrendered.





                                       12
<PAGE>   116

                 (vi)     The Bank, in issuing the Global Bank Notes, may use
"CUSIP" numbers (if then generally in use) and, if so, the Issuing and Paying
Agent shall use "CUSIP" numbers in notices of redemption as a convenience to
Holders; provided, however, that any such notice may state that no
representation is made as to the correctness of such numbers either as printed
on the Global Bank Notes or as contained in any notice of a redemption and that
reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers printed on the
Global Bank Notes, and any such redemption shall not be affected by any defect
in or omission of such numbers.

                 Section 14.  Repayment of Global Bank Notes.

                 (i)      In order for any Global Bank Note to be repaid in
whole or in part at the option of the Holder thereof, such Global Bank Note
must be delivered by the Holder thereof, with the form entitled "Option to
Elect Repayment" (set forth in such Global Bank Note) duly completed, to the
Issuing and Paying Agent at its offices located at the address set forth in
Section 20 hereof, or such other place or places of which the Bank shall from
time to time notify the Holders of the Global Bank Notes, not more than 60 nor
less than 30 calendar days prior to any date fixed for such repayment of such
Global Bank Notes (the "Optional Repayment Date").

                 (ii)     Upon surrender of any Global Bank Note for repayment
in accordance with the provisions set forth above, the Global Bank Note to be
repaid shall, on the Optional Repayment Date, become due and payable, and the
Issuing and Paying Agent shall pay such Global Bank Note on the Optional
Repayment Date at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof,
together with accrued interest to the Optional Repayment Date.

                 (iii)    If less than the entire principal amount of any
Global Bank Note is to be repaid, the Holder thereof shall specify the portion
thereof (which shall be in increments of $1,000) which such Holder elects to
have repaid and shall surrender such Global Bank Note to the Issuing and Paying
Agent, and the Issuing and Paying Agent shall complete, authenticate and
deliver to the Holder of such Global Bank Note, without service charge, a new
Global Bank Note or Global Bank Notes in an aggregate principal amount equal to
and in exchange for the unrepaid portion of the principal of the Global Bank
Note so surrendered and in such denominations as shall





                                       13
<PAGE>   117

be specified by such Holder (which shall be $250,000 or an integral multiple of
$1,000 in excess thereof).

                 Section 15.  Acceleration of Maturity.     If an Event of
Default (as defined in the applicable Global Bank Note) with respect to a Bank
Note shall occur, then the Holder of the applicable Bank Note may declare the
principal amount of, and accrued interest and premium, if any, on such Bank
Note due and payable by written notice to the Bank.  Upon such declaration and
notice, such principal amount, accrued interest and premium, if any, shall
become immediately due and payable.  The Bank shall promptly notify, and
provide copies of any such notice to, the Issuing and Paying Agent, and the
Issuing and Paying Agent shall promptly mail by first-class mail, postage
prepaid, copies of such notice to the Holders of the Bank Notes upon the
occurrence of an Event of Default or of the curing or waiver of an Event of
Default.  Any Event of Default with respect to a Bank Note may be waived by the
Holder thereof.

                 Section 16.  Application of Funds; Return of Unclaimed Funds.
Any monies paid by the Bank and held by the Issuing and Paying Agent in trust
for payment of principal of, premium, if any, or interest on, any Global Bank
Notes that remain unclaimed for two years following the date on which such
principal, premium or interest shall have become due and payable shall be
returned to the Bank by the Issuing and Paying Agent and the Issuing and Paying
Agent shall inform the Bank as to the specific Global Bank Notes to which such
monies related, and any Holder shall thereafter look, as an unsecured general
creditor, only to the Bank for the payment thereof and all liability of the
Issuing and Paying Agent with respect to such trust monies shall thereupon
cease.  Any funds deposited by the Bank with the Issuing and Paying Agent for
the payment of principal of, premium, if any, or interest on, any Bank Note
shall be held in trust on behalf of the Bank by the Issuing and Paying Agent
for the payment of principal of, premium, if any, or interest on, any Bank Note
until paid or returned to the Bank.

                 Section 17.  Cancellation of Unissued Notes.  Upon the written
request of the Bank, the Issuing and Paying Agent promptly shall cancel and
return to the Bank all unissued Bank Notes in its possession.

                 Section 18.  Liability.  Neither the Issuing and Paying Agent
nor its directors, officers, employees or agents shall be





                                       14
<PAGE>   118

liable to the Bank for any act or omission hereunder except in the case of
gross negligence or willful misconduct.  The duties and obligations of the
Issuing and Paying Agent, its directors, officers and employees shall be
determined by the express provisions of this Agreement and no implied covenants
shall be read into this Agreement against any of them.  Notwithstanding any
other provision elsewhere contained in this Agreement, the Issuing and Paying
Agent is acting solely as agent of the Bank and does not assume any obligation
or relationship of trust or agency for or with any Holders.  Neither the
Issuing and Paying Agent nor any of its directors, officers or employees shall
be required to ascertain whether any issuance or sale of Bank Notes (or any
amendment or termination of this Agreement) has been duly authorized (provided
that the Issuing and Paying Agent in good faith has determined that the
facsimile or manual signature of the Authorized Representative or any person
who has been designated by the Authorized Representative in writing to the
Issuing and Paying Agent reasonably resembles the specimen signatures filed
with the Issuing and Paying Agent) or is in compliance with any other agreement
to which the Bank is a party (whether or not the Issuing and Paying Agent is
also a party to such other agreement), and the Issuing and Paying Agent and
each of its officers and employees shall be entitled to rely upon any
instructions reasonably believed (in accordance with Section 3 hereof) by the
Issuing and Paying Agent and its officers and employees to be given on behalf
of the Bank by an Authorized Representative or by any person who has been
designated by an Authorized Representative in writing to the Issuing and Paying
Agent as a person authorized to give such instructions hereunder, whether or
not in fact given by the Authorized Representative or such designated person.

         The Issuing and Paying Agent may execute any of the trusts or powers
hereunder or perform any duties hereunder either directly or by or through
agents or attorneys and the Issuing and Paying Agent shall not be responsible
for any misconduct or gross negligence on the part of any agent or attorney
appointed with due care by it hereunder.  The Issuing and Paying Agent may
consult with counsel of its selection and the advice of such counsel or any
opinion of counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in
respect of any action taken, suffered or omitted by it hereunder in good faith
and in reliance thereon.  The Issuing and Paying Agent shall not be liable for
any action taken, suffered, or omitted to be taken by it in good faith and
reasonably believed by it to be





                                       15
<PAGE>   119

authorized or within the discretion or rights or powers conferred upon it by
this Agreement.

                 Section 19.  Indemnification, Risk of Funds.  The Bank shall
indemnify and hold harmless the Issuing and Paying Agent, its directors,
officers, employees and agents from and against all actions, claims, losses,
damages, liabilities, losses and expenses (including reasonable legal fees and
expenses) relating to or arising out of their actions or inactions taken or
omitted to be taken by the Issuing and Paying Agent in good faith in connection
with its performance under this Agreement including, but not limited to, any
actions taken or omitted upon instructions by the Bank (in accordance with
Section 3) or the issuance, delivery, payment or non-payment of any Bank Note
or interest thereon, or other receipt or other funds for the payment of the
Bank Notes or interest or premium thereon; provided, however, that the Issuing
and Paying Agent shall be liable for any liabilities, losses, claims, damages,
costs and expenses (including reasonable legal fees and expenses) caused by the
gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct of its directors, officers,
employees or agents.  This indemnity shall survive the termination of this
Agreement.

         No provision of this Agreement shall require the Issuing and Paying
Agent to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise incur any financial
liability in the performance of any of its duties hereunder, or in the exercise
of any of its rights or powers, if it shall have reasonable grounds for
believing that repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk
or liability is not reasonably assured to it.

                 Section 20.  Compensation of the Issuing and Paying Agent.
The Bank agrees to pay the compensation of the Issuing and Paying Agent, at
such rates as shall be mutually agreed upon in writing between the Bank and the
Issuing and Paying Agent from time to time.  The Bank shall reimburse upon
demand the Issuing and Paying Agent for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
(including reasonable legal fees and expenses), disbursements and advances
incurred or made by the Issuing and Paying Agent with respect to the Bank in
accordance with any provisions of this Agreement, except any such expense,
disbursement or advance proven to be attributable to the breach of this
Agreement or the gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct of the
Issuing and Paying Agent, upon receipt of such invoices as the Bank may





                                       16
<PAGE>   120

reasonably require.  The provisions of this Section 20 shall survive the
termination of this Agreement.

                 Section 21.  Notices.

                 (i)      All communications by or on behalf of the Bank
relating to the issuance, transfer, exchange or payment of Bank Notes or
interest thereon shall be directed to the offices of the Issuing and Paying
Agent located at 450 West 33rd Street, New York, New York 10001, Telecopy:
(212) 946-7682, Attention: Agency Administration, or to such other offices as
the Issuing and Paying Agent shall specify in writing to the Bank.  The Bank
will send all Global Bank Notes to be completed and delivered by the Issuing
and Paying Agent to such offices or such other offices as the Issuing and
Paying Agent shall specify in writing to the Bank.

                 (ii)     All other notices and communications hereunder shall
be in writing and shall be addressed as follows:

                 (a)      if to the Bank:

                          Banco Popular de Puerto Rico
                          209 Munoz Rivera Avenue
                          Hato Rey, Puerto Rico  00918
                          Attention:  Richard Barrios
                          Telecopy:   (787) 754-9290

                 (b)      if to the Issuing and Paying Agent:

                          The Chase Manhattan Bank
                          450 West 33rd Street
                          New York, New York  10001
                          Attention:  Agency Administration
                          Telecopy:  (212) 946-7682

                 Section 22.  Resignation or Removal of Issuing and Paying
Agent and Appointment of Successor Issuing and Paying Agent; Merger, Conversion
and Consolidation.  The Bank agrees, for the benefit of the Holders from time
to time of the Bank Notes, that there shall at all times be an Issuing and
Paying Agent hereunder which shall be a bank or trust company organized and
doing business under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico authorized under such laws to exercise corporate
trust powers, having a combined capital and surplus of at





                                       17
<PAGE>   121

least $10,000,000 and subject to supervision and examination by federal, state
or Commonwealth authority, until all the Global Bank Notes authenticated and
delivered hereunder (A) shall have been delivered to the Issuing and Paying
Agent for cancellation or (B) shall have become due and payable and funds
sufficient to pay the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on, the
Global Bank Notes shall have been made available for payment and either paid or
returned to the Bank, whichever event occurs earlier.  The foregoing capital
and surplus requirements shall not be applicable if the Bank or an affiliate of
the Bank is appointed as successor Issuing and Paying Agent.

                  The Issuing and Paying Agent may resign at any time as such
agent upon written notice to the Bank of such intention on its part, specifying
the date on which its desired resignation shall become effective; provided,
however, that such date shall be not less than 90 calendar days after the
giving of such notice by the Issuing and Paying Agent to the Bank.  The Issuing
and Paying Agent may be removed at any time as such agent by the filing with it
of an instrument in writing signed by a duly authorized officer of the Bank and
specifying such removal and the date, which shall be at least 30 calendar days
following receipt of such written notice, upon which it is intended to become
effective.  Any such resignation or removal shall take effect on the date of
the appointment by the Bank of a successor issuing and paying agent and the
acceptance of such appointment by such successor issuing and paying agent that
qualifies as such under the first paragraph of this Section.  In the event of
the resignation or removal of the Issuing and Paying Agent, if a successor
issuing and paying agent has not been appointed by the Bank within 90 calendar
days after the giving of notice of resignation or within 30 calendar days after
receipt of notice of removal, the Issuing and Paying Agent may, at the expense
of the Bank, petition any court of competent jurisdiction for appointment of a
successor Issuing and Paying Agent.  Upon any such resignation or removal, the
Issuing and Paying Agent shall transfer to the successor Issuing and Paying
Agent (or, if none shall have been appointed, to the Bank) all monies held by
the Issuing and Paying Agent on behalf of the Bank in respect of any Global
Bank Notes, any unissued Global Bank Notes and all books and records or copies
thereof related to Global Bank Notes maintained by the Issuing and Paying
Agent, including a copy of the Bank Note Register.  Any resignation or removal
hereunder shall not affect the Issuing and Paying Agent's rights to the





                                       18
<PAGE>   122

payment of fees earned or charges incurred through the effective date of such
resignation or removal.

                 Any corporation or bank into which the Issuing and Paying
Agent hereunder may be merged or converted, or any corporation or bank with
which the Issuing and Paying Agent may be consolidated, or any corporation or
bank resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the
Issuing and Paying Agent shall be a party, or any corporation or bank to which
the Issuing and Paying Agent shall sell or otherwise transfer all or
substantially all of the assets and business of the Issuing and Paying Agent,
provided that it shall be qualified under the first paragraph of this Section,
shall be the successor Issuing and Paying Agent under this Agreement without
the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of any of
the parties hereto.

                 Section 23.  Benefit of Agreement.  This Agreement is solely
for the benefit of the parties hereto, Holders of Bank Notes, and their
successors and assigns, and nothing herein, express or implied, shall give to
any other persons any benefits or any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim
under or by virtue of this Agreement.  No party hereto may assign any of its
rights or obligations hereunder except with the prior written consent of all
the parties hereto.

                 Section 24.  Bank Notes Held by the Issuing and Paying Agent.
The Issuing and Paying Agent, in its individual or other capacity, may become
the owner or pledgee of the Bank Notes with the same rights it would have if it
were not acting as an issuing and paying agent hereunder.

                 Section 25.  Amendment.  This Agreement shall not be amended
by any party hereto except in writing executed by the duly authorized officers
of all parties.

                 Section 26.  Governing Law.  This Agreement shall be governed
by, construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of New
York applicable to agreements made and to be performed in such State, without
regard to conflicts of laws principles.

                 Section 27.  Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed by
the parties hereto in any number of counterparts, and by each of the parties
hereto in separate counterparts, and each such





                                       19
<PAGE>   123

counterpart, when so executed and delivered, shall be deemed to be an original,
but all such counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same
instrument.





                                       20
<PAGE>   124

                 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this
Agreement to be executed on their behalf by their officers thereunto duly
authorized, all as of the day and year first above written.


                                   BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO
                                  
                                  
                                   By:______________________________
                                      Name:
                                      Title:
                                  
                                  
                                   By:______________________________
                                      Name:
                                      Title:
                                  
                                  
                                   THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK
                                            as Issuing and Paying Agent
                                  
                                  
                                   By:_______________________________
                                      Name:
                                      Title:





                                       21
<PAGE>   125
                                                           
                                                             EXHIBIT 10.13 CONT.

                                                             EXHIBIT A-1

THIS NOTE IS AN OBLIGATION SOLELY OF BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO (THE "BANK")
AND WILL NOT BE AN OBLIGATION OF, OR OTHERWISE GUARANTEED BY, ANY OTHER BANK OR
BANPONCE CORPORATION.  THIS NOTE DOES NOT EVIDENCE DEPOSITS OF THE BANK AND IS
NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER
GOVERNMENT AGENCY.  THE OBLIGATIONS EVIDENCED BY THIS NOTE RANK PARI PASSU WITH
ALL OTHER SENIOR UNSECURED INDEBTEDNESS OF THE BANK, EXCEPT DEPOSIT LIABILITIES
(AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 11(D)(11) OF THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE ACT) AND
OTHER OBLIGATIONS THAT ARE SUBJECT TO ANY PRIORITIES OR PREFERENCES.  IN A
LIQUIDATION OR OTHER RESOLUTION OF THE BANK, THIS NOTE WOULD BE TREATED
DIFFERENTLY FROM, AND HOLDERS OF THIS NOTE COULD RECEIVE, IF ANYTHING,
SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN HOLDERS OF, DEPOSIT LIABILITIES OF THE BANK.

UNLESS THIS NOTE IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY
TRUST COMPANY (55 WATER STREET, NEW YORK, NEW YORK) (THE "DEPOSITARY") TO THE
BANK OR ITS AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY
NOTE ISSUED UPON REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER OF, OR IN EXCHANGE FOR, OR IN LIEU
OF, THIS NOTE IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER NAME AS
REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITARY AND ANY PAYMENT
HEREON IS MADE TO CEDE & CO., ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR
VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL SINCE THE REGISTERED OWNER
HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.

THIS GLOBAL SECURITY MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED EXCEPT AS A WHOLE BY THE DEPOSITARY
TO A NOMINEE OF THE DEPOSITARY OR BY THE DEPOSITARY OR ANY SUCH NOMINEE TO A
SUCCESSOR DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE OF SUCH SUCCESSOR DEPOSITARY.

THIS NOTE IS ISSUABLE ONLY IN FULLY REGISTERED FORM IN MINIMUM DENOMINATIONS OF
$250,000 AND INTEGRAL MULTIPLES OF $1,000 IN EXCESS THEREOF.  EACH OWNER OF A
BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN THIS NOTE MUST BE AN INSTITUTIONAL INVESTOR WHO IS AN
"ACCREDITED INVESTOR" WITHIN THE MEANING OF RULE 501 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT
OF 1933, AS AMENDED, AND IS REQUIRED TO HOLD A BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN $250,000
PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OR ANY INTEGRAL MULTIPLE OF $1,000 IN EXCESS THEREOF OF THIS
NOTE AT ALL TIMES.





                                     A-1-1
<PAGE>   126
No. FXR-________
CUSIP NO.: _________
                                                                      REGISTERED


                          BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO
                                GLOBAL BANK NOTE
                                  (Fixed Rate)


<TABLE>
<S>                                         <C>
ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE:                        PRINCIPAL AMOUNT:
                                         
INTEREST RATE:  ______%                     MATURITY DATE:
                                         
INTEREST PAYMENT DATE(S):                   REGULAR RECORD DATES (FOR
 [ ] At Maturity only                       NOTES WITH MATURITIES OF
 [ ] May 15 and November 15                 GREATER THAN ONE YEAR)
 [ ] Other:                                 (if other than May 1 or November 1,
                                            prior to each Interest Payment Date):
                                         
INITIAL REDEMPTION                          INITIAL REDEMPTION
DATE:                                       PERCENTAGE:
                                         
ANNUAL REDEMPTION                           HOLDER'S OPTIONAL
PERCENTAGE REDUCTION:                       REPAYMENT DATE(S):
                                         
DAY COUNT CONVENTION                     
[  ]  30/360 FOR THE PERIOD FROM                         TO           .
[  ]  ACTUAL/360 FOR THE PERIOD FROM                     TO           .
[  ]  ACTUAL/ACTUAL FOR THE PERIOD FROM                  TO           .
                                         
ADDENDUM ATTACHED:                          ORIGINAL ISSUE DISCOUNT:
[  ]  Yes                                   [  ] Yes
[  ]  No                                    [  ] No
                                            Total Amount of OID:
DEFAULT RATE:  _____%                       Yield to Maturity:
                                            Initial Accrual Period:
OTHER PROVISIONS:                        
</TABLE>




The Bank, for value received, hereby promises to pay to CEDE & CO., or
registered assigns, the principal sum of ______________________________ United
States Dollars on the Maturity Date specified above (except to the extent
redeemed or repaid prior to the Maturity Date) and to pay interest thereon from
and including the Original Issue Date specified above or from and including the
most recent interest payment date to which interest





                                     A-1-2
<PAGE>   127

on this Note (or any predecessor Note) has been paid or duly provided for,
semi-annually on May 15 and November 15 of each year (unless otherwise
specified on the face hereof) (each, an "Interest Payment Date") and at
maturity or upon earlier redemption or repayment, if applicable, commencing on
the first Interest Payment Date next succeeding the Original Issue Date (or, if
the Original Issue Date is between a Regular Record Date (as defined below) and
the Interest Payment Date immediately following such Regular Record Date, on
the second Interest Payment Date following the Original Issue Date), at the
Interest Rate per annum specified above, until the principal hereof is paid or
made available for payment, and (to the extent that the payment of such
interest shall be legally enforceable) at the Default Rate per annum specified
above on any overdue principal and premium, if any, and on any overdue
installment of interest.  If no Default Rate is specified above, the Default
Rate shall be the Interest Rate on this Note specified above.  The interest so
payable, and punctually paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date
will be paid to the person in whose name this Note (or any predecessor Note) is
registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date, which shall be
the May 1 and November 1 (whether or not a Business Day (as defined below)), as
the case may be, prior to such Interest Payment Date (unless otherwise
specified on the face hereof) (each, a "Regular Record Date"); provided,
however, that interest payable at maturity or upon earlier redemption or
repayment, if applicable, will be payable to the person to whom principal shall
be payable.  Any such interest not so punctually paid or duly provided for
shall forthwith cease to be payable to the holder as of the close of business
on such Regular Record Date, and may either be paid to the person in whose name
this Note (or any predecessor Note) is registered at the close of business on a
special record date for the payment of such defaulted interest (the "Special
Record Date") to be fixed by the Bank, notice of which shall be given to the
holders of Notes not less than 10 calendar days prior to such Special Record
Date, or be paid at any time in any other lawful manner.

         Payment of principal of, premium, if any, and interest on this Note
will be made in such coin or currency of the United States of America as at the
time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts.  The
Bank will at all times appoint and maintain an issuing and paying agent (the
"Issuing and Paying Agent", which term shall include any successor Issuing and
Paying Agent), authorized by the Bank to pay principal of, premium, if





                                     A-1-3
<PAGE>   128

any, and interest on this Note on behalf of the Bank pursuant to an issuing and
paying agency agreement (the "Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement") and having
an office or agency (the "Issuing and Paying Agent Office") in The City of New
York or the city in which the Bank is headquartered (the "Place of Payment"),
where this Note may be presented or surrendered for payment and where notices,
designations or requests in respect of payments with respect to this Note may
be served.  The Bank has initially appointed The Chase Manhattan Bank as the
Issuing and Paying Agent, with the Issuing and Paying Agent Office currently
located at 450 West 33rd Street, New York, New York 10001, Attention: Agency
Administration.  The Bank may remove the Issuing and Paying Agent pursuant to
the terms of the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement and may appoint a
successor Issuing and Paying Agent.

         Payment of principal of, premium, if any, and interest on this Note
due at maturity or upon earlier redemption or repayment, if applicable, will be
made in immediately available funds upon presentation and surrender of this
Note to the Issuing and Paying Agent at the Issuing and Paying Agent Office;
provided that this Note is presented to the Issuing and Paying Agent in time
for the Issuing and Paying Agent to make such payment in accordance with its
normal procedures.  Payments of interest on this Note (other than at maturity
or upon earlier redemption or repayment) will be made by wire transfer to such
account as has been appropriately designated to the Issuing and Paying Agent by
the person entitled to such payments.

         Reference herein to "this Note", "hereof", "herein" and comparable
terms shall include an Addendum hereto if an Addendum is specified above.

         Reference is hereby made to the further provisions of this Note set
forth on the reverse hereof, which further provisions shall for all purposes
have the same effect as if set forth at this place.





                                     A-1-4
<PAGE>   129

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Bank has caused this Note to be duly executed.


                                           By:      
                                               --------------------------------
                                                    Authorized Signatory



                                           By:                                 
                                               --------------------------------
                                                    Authorized Signatory

Dated:





ISSUING AND PAYING AGENT'S CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION

This is one of the Notes referred to in the Issuing and Paying Agency
Agreement.


THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK
  as Issuing and Paying Agent


By:  
   ------------------------------------
          Authorized Signatory





                                     A-1-5
<PAGE>   130
                                                             EXHIBIT 10.13 CONT.
                                                                               
                                   [Reverse]


         This Note is one of a duly authorized issue of Bank Notes due from 7
days to 15 years from date of issue of the Bank (the "Notes").

         Payments of interest hereon will include interest accrued to but
excluding the relevant Interest Payment Date or Maturity Date or date of
earlier redemption or repayment, as the case may be.  Unless otherwise
specified on the face hereof, interest on Notes with maturities of more than
one year will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day
months.  Unless otherwise specified on the face hereof, interest on Notes with
maturities of one year or less will be computed on the basis of the actual
number of days in the year divided by 360 and will be payable only at maturity
to the person to whom principal shall be payable.

         Any provision contained herein with respect to the calculation of the
rate of interest applicable to this Note, its Interest Payment Dates or any
other matter relating hereto may be modified as specified in an Addendum
relating hereto if so specified on the face hereof.

         If any Interest Payment Date, Maturity Date or date of earlier
redemption or repayment of this Note falls on a day which is not a Business
Day, the related payment of principal of, premium, if any, or interest on this
Note shall be made on the next succeeding Business Day with the same force and
effect as if made on the date such payment was due, and no interest shall
accrue on the amount so payable for the period from and after such Interest
Payment Date, Maturity Date or date of earlier redemption or repayment, as the
case may be.  "Business Day" means, unless otherwise specified on the face
hereof, any day that is not a Saturday or Sunday and that in The City of New
York or in the city in which the Bank is headquartered is not a bank holiday or
a day on which banking institutions are required by law, regulation or
executive order to close.

         This Note will not be subject to any sinking fund.  If so provided on
the face of this Note, this Note may be redeemed by the Bank either in whole or
in part on (unless otherwise specified on the face hereof) and after the
Initial Redemption Date, if any, specified on the face hereof.  If no Initial
Redemption Date is





                                     A-1-6
<PAGE>   131

specified on the face hereof, this Note may not be redeemed prior to the
Maturity Date.  On and after the Initial Redemption Date, if any, this Note may
be redeemed in increments of $1,000 (provided that any remaining principal
amount hereof shall be at least $250,000) at the option of the Bank at the
applicable Redemption Price (as defined below), together with unpaid interest
accrued hereon at the applicable rate borne by this Note to the date of
redemption (each such date, a "Redemption Date"), on written notice given not
more than 60 nor less than 30 calendar days prior to the Redemption Date to the
registered holder hereof (unless otherwise specified on the face hereof).
Whenever less than all the Notes at any time outstanding are to be redeemed,
the terms of the Notes to be so redeemed shall be selected by the Bank.  If
less than all the Notes with identical terms at any time outstanding are to be
redeemed, the Notes to be so redeemed shall be selected by the Issuing and
Paying Agent by lot or in any usual manner approved by it.  In the event of
redemption of this Note in part only, a new Note for the unredeemed portion
hereof shall be issued in the name of the holder hereof upon the surrender
hereof.

         The "Redemption Price" shall initially be the Initial Redemption
Percentage specified on the face hereof of the principal amount of this Note to
be redeemed and shall decline at each anniversary of the Initial Redemption
Date specified on the face hereof by the Annual Redemption Percentage
Reduction, if any, specified on the face hereof, of the principal amount to be
redeemed until the Redemption Price is 100% of such principal amount.

         This Note may be subject to repayment at the option of the holder
hereof in accordance with the terms hereof on any Holder's Optional Repayment
Date(s), if any, specified on the face hereof.  If no Holder's Optional
Repayment Date is specified on the face hereof, this Note will not be repayable
at the option of the holder hereof prior to maturity.  On any Holder's Optional
Repayment Date, this Note will be repayable in whole or in part in increments
of $1,000 (provided that any remaining principal amount hereof will be at least
$250,000) at the option of the holder hereof at a repayment price equal to 100%
of the principal amount to be repaid, together with accrued and unpaid interest
hereon payable to the date of repayment.  For this Note to be repaid in whole
or in part at the option of the holder hereof on a Holder's Optional Repayment
Date, this Note must be delivered, with the form entitled "Option to Elect
Repayment" attached hereto duly completed, to the Issuing





                                     A-1-7
<PAGE>   132

and Paying Agent at its offices located at 450 West 33rd Street, New York, New
York 10001, Attention: Agency Administration, or at such other address which
the Bank shall from time to time notify the holders of the Notes, not more than
60 nor less than 30 calendar days prior to such Holder's Optional Repayment
Date.  In the event of repayment of this Note in part only, a new Note for the
unrepaid portion hereof shall be issued in the name of the holder hereof upon
the surrender hereof.  Exercise of such repayment option by the holder hereof
shall be irrevocable.

         If this Note is an Original Issue Discount Note and if an Event of
Default with respect to this Note shall have occurred and be continuing, the
Default Amount (as defined hereafter) of this Note may be declared due and
payable in the manner and with the effect provided herein.  The "Default
Amount" shall be equal to the adjusted issue price as of the first day of the
accrual period as determined under Final Treasury Regulation Section
1.1275-1(b) (or successor regulation) under the United States Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended, in which the date of acceleration occurs increased by
the daily portion of the original issue discount for each day in such accrual
period ending on the date of acceleration, as determined under Final Treasury
Regulation Section 1.1272-1(b) (or successor regulation) under the United
States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.  Upon payment of (i) the
principal, or premium, if any, so declared due and payable and (ii) interest on
any overdue principal and overdue interest or premium, if any (in each case to
the extent that the payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable), all
of the Bank's obligations in respect of the payment of principal of, premium,
if any, and interest on this Note shall terminate.

         In case any Note shall at any time become mutilated, destroyed, lost
or stolen, and such Note or evidence of the loss, theft or destruction thereof
satisfactory to the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent and such other
documents or proof as may be required by the Bank and the Issuing and Paying
Agent shall be delivered to the Issuing and Paying Agent, the Bank shall issue
a new Note, of like tenor and principal amount, having a serial number not
contemporaneously outstanding, in exchange and substitution for the mutilated
Note or in lieu of the Note destroyed, lost or stolen but, in the case of any
destroyed, lost or stolen Note, only upon receipt of evidence satisfactory to
the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent that such Note was destroyed, stolen
or lost, and, if required, upon receipt of indemnity





                                     A-1-8
<PAGE>   133

satisfactory to the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent.  Upon the issuance
of any substituted Note, the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent may require
the payment of a sum sufficient to cover all expenses and reasonable charges
connected with the preparation and delivery of a new Note.  If any Note which
has matured or has been redeemed or repaid or is about to mature or to be
redeemed or repaid shall become mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen, the Bank
may, instead of issuing a substitute Note, pay or authorize the payment of the
same (without surrender thereof except in the case of a mutilated Note) upon
compliance by the holder with the provisions of this paragraph.

         No recourse shall be had for the payment of principal of, premium, if
any, or interest on this Note for any claim based hereon, or otherwise in
respect hereof, against any shareholder, employee, agent, officer or director,
as such, past, present or future, of the Bank or of any successor corporation,
banking association or other legal entity (collectively, "corporation"), either
directly or through the Bank or any corporation, whether by virtue of any
constitution, statute or rule of law or by the enforcement of any assessment or
penalty or otherwise, all such liability being, by the acceptance hereof and as
part of the consideration for the issue hereof, expressly waived and released.

         The occurrence of any of the following events shall constitute an
"Event of Default" with respect to this Note: (i) default in the payment of any
interest with respect to any of the Notes issued by the Bank when due, which
continues for 30 calendar days; (ii) default in the payment of any principal
of, or premium, if any, on any of the Notes issued by the Bank when due; (iii)
the entry by a court having jurisdiction in the premises of (a) a decree or
order for relief in respect of the Bank in an involuntary case or proceeding
under any applicable United States federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency,
reorganization or other similar law or (b) a decree or order appointing a
conservator, receiver, liquidator, assignee, trustee, sequestrator or any other
similar official of the Bank, or of substantially all of the property of the
Bank, or ordering the winding up or liquidation of the affairs of the Bank, and
the continuance of any such decree or order for relief or any such other decree
or order unstayed and in effect for a period of 60 consecutive days; or (iv)
the commencement by the Bank of a voluntary case or proceeding under any
applicable United States federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency,
reorganization or other similar law or of any other case or proceeding to be
adjudicated as





                                     A-1-9
<PAGE>   134

bankrupt or insolvent, or the consent by the Bank to the entry of a decree or
order for relief in an involuntary case or proceeding under any applicable
United States federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other
similar law or to the commencement of any bankruptcy or insolvency case or
proceeding, or the filing by the Bank of a petition or answer or consent
seeking reorganization or relief under any applicable United States federal or
state bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar law, or the consent by
the Bank to the filing of such petition or to the appointment of or taking
possession by a custodian, conservator, receiver, liquidator, assignee,
trustee, sequestrator or similar official of the Bank or of substantially all
of the property of the Bank, or the making by the Bank of an assignment for the
benefit of creditors, or the taking of corporate action by the Bank in
furtherance of any such action.  If an Event of Default shall occur and be
continuing, the holder of this Note may declare the principal amount of,
accrued interest and premium, if any, on this Note due and payable immediately
by written notice to the Bank.  Upon such declaration and notice, such
principal amount, accrued interest and premium, if any, shall become
immediately due and payable.  Any Event of Default with respect to this Note
may be waived by the holder hereof.

         The Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement provides that the Bank will
promptly notify, and provide copies of any such notice to, the Issuing and
Paying Agent, and the Issuing and Paying Agent will promptly mail by
first-class mail, postage prepaid, copies of such notice to the holders of the
Notes, upon the occurrence of an Event of Default or of the curing or waiver of
an Event of Default.

         Nothing contained herein shall prevent any consolidation or merger of
the Bank with any other corporation or successive consolidations or mergers in
which the Bank or its successor or successors shall be a party or parties, or
shall prevent any sale, conveyance, transfer or lease of the property of the
Bank as an entirety or substantially as an entirety to any other corporation
authorized to acquire and operate the same; provided, however (and the Bank
hereby covenants and agrees) that any such consolidation, merger, sale or
conveyance shall be upon the condition that:  (i) immediately after such
consolidation, merger, sale or conveyance the corporation (whether the Bank or
such other corporation) formed by or surviving any such consolidation or
merger, or the corporation to which such sale or conveyance shall have been
made, shall not be in default in the performance or observance of any of





                                     A-1-10
<PAGE>   135

the terms, covenants and conditions of the Notes to be observed or performed by
the Bank; and (ii) the corporation (if other than the Bank) formed by or
surviving any such consolidation or merger, or the corporation to which such
sale or conveyance shall have been made, shall be organized under the laws of
the United States of America, any state thereof, the District of Columbia or
the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and shall expressly assume the due and punctual
payment of the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on this Note.  In
case of any such consolidation, merger, sale, conveyance, transfer or lease,
and upon the assumption by the successor corporation of the due and punctual
performance of all of the covenants in the Notes to be performed or observed by
the Bank, such successor corporation shall succeed to and be substituted for
the Bank with the same effect as if it had been named in this Note as the Bank
and thereafter the predecessor corporation shall be relieved of all obligations
and covenants in this Note and may be liquidated and dissolved.

         Any action by the holder of this Note shall bind all future holders of
this Note, and of any Note issued in exchange or substitution herefor or in
place hereof, in respect of anything done or permitted by the Bank or by the
Issuing and Paying Agent in pursuance of such action.

         The Issuing and Paying Agent shall maintain at its offices a register
(the register maintained in such office or any other office or agency of the
Issuing and Paying Agent in The City of New York herein referred to as the
"Note Register") in which, subject to such reasonable regulations as it may
prescribe, the Issuing and Paying Agent shall provide for the registration of
the Notes and of transfers of the Notes.

         The transfer of this Note is registrable in the Note Register, upon
surrender of this Note for registration of transfer at the office or agency of
the Issuing and Paying Agent in the Place of Payment, duly endorsed by, or
accompanied by a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the
Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent duly executed by, the holder hereof or
his attorney duly authorized in writing, and thereupon one or more new Notes of
like tenor, of authorized denominations and for the same aggregate principal
amount, will be issued to the designated transferee or transferees.





                                     A-1-11
<PAGE>   136

         No provision of this Note shall alter or impair the obligation of the
Bank, which is absolute and unconditional, to pay principal of,  premium, if
any, and interest on this Note in U.S. dollars at the times, places and rate
herein prescribed in accordance with its terms.

         No service charge shall be made to a holder of this Note for any
transfer or exchange of this Note, but the Bank may require payment of a sum
sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in
connection therewith.

         Beneficial interests represented by this Note are exchangeable for
definitive Notes in registered form, of like tenor and of an equal aggregate
principal amount, only if (x) The Depository Trust Company, as Depositary (the
"Depositary") notifies the Bank that it is unwilling or unable to continue as
Depositary for this Note or if at any time the Depositary ceases to be a
clearing agency registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended, and a successor depositary is not appointed by the Bank within 60
calendar days, or (y) the Bank in its sole discretion determines not to have
such beneficial interests represented by this Note.  Any Note representing such
beneficial interests that is exchangeable pursuant to the preceding sentence
shall be exchangeable in whole for definitive Notes in registered form, of like
tenor and of an equal aggregate principal amount, in minimum denominations of
$250,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.  Such definitive
Notes shall be registered in the name or names of such person or persons as the
Depositary shall instruct the Issuing and Paying Agent.

         Prior to due presentment of this Note for registration of transfer,
the Bank, the Issuing and Paying Agent or any agent of the Bank or the Issuing
and Paying Agent may treat the holder in whose name this Note is registered as
the owner hereof for all purposes, whether or not this Note be overdue, and
neither the Bank, the Issuing and Paying Agent nor any such agent shall be
affected by notice to the contrary except as required by applicable law.

         All notices to the Bank under this Note shall be in writing and
addressed to the Bank at 209 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Suite 913, Hato Rey, Puerto
Rico 00918, Attention: Richard Barrios, or to such other address of the Bank as
the Bank may notify the holders of the Notes.





                                     A-1-12
<PAGE>   137


         This Note shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the
laws of the State of New York, without regard to conflicts of laws principles
and all applicable federal laws and regulations.





                                     A-1-13
<PAGE>   138

                                 ABBREVIATIONS

         The following abbreviations, when used in the inscription on the face
of the within Note, shall be construed as though they were written out in full
according to applicable laws or regulations.

                 TEN COM - as tenants in common

                 TEN ENT - as tenants by the entireties

                 JT TEN -  as joint tenants with right of         
                           survivorship and not as tenants        
                           in common                              

                 UNIF GIFT MIN ACT -                Custodian          
                                     --------------           ---------
                                        (Cust)                 (Minor)
                                     under Uniform Gifts to Minors Act

                                     __________________________________
                                                     (State)

                 Additional abbreviations may also be used
                          though not in the above list.





                                     A-1-14
<PAGE>   139

                                   ASSIGNMENT


                 FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned hereby

sell(s), assign(s) and transfer(s) unto ________________________

________________________________________________________________

PLEASE INSERT SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR OTHER IDENTIFYING NUMBER OF ASSIGNEE

                         ____________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________
                 (Please print or typewrite name and address,
                   including postal zip code, of assignee)


the within Note and all rights thereunder, and hereby

irrevocably constitutes and appoints                             
                                    _____________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

to transfer said Note on the books of the Issuing and Paying

Agent, with full power of substitution in the premises.


Dated: __________________           _________________________________
                                    NOTICE:  The signature to this
                                    assignment must correspond with
                                    the name as written upon the face
                                    of the within Note in every
                                    particular, without alteration or
                                    enlargement or any change
                                    whatsoever.








________________________________
     Signature Guarantee





                                     A-1-15
<PAGE>   140

                           OPTION TO ELECT REPAYMENT


         The undersigned hereby irrevocably request(s) and instruct(s) the Bank
to repay this Note (or portion hereof specified below) pursuant to its terms at
a price equal to 100% of the principal amount hereof to be repaid, together
with accrued and unpaid interest hereon, payable to the date of repayment, to
the undersigned, at ___________________________________________________________.
                 (Please print or typewrite name and address of the undersigned)

         For this Note to be repaid, the undersigned must give notice to the
Issuing and Paying Agent at its offices located at 450 West 33rd Street, New
York, New York 10001, Attention: Agency Administration, or at such other place
or places of which the Bank shall from time to time notify the holders of the
Notes, not more than 60 nor less than 30 calendar days prior to the date of
repayment, with this "Option to Elect Repayment" form duly completed.

         If less than the entire principal amount of this Note is to be repaid,
specify the portion hereof (which shall be increments of $1,000) which the
holder elects to have repaid and specify the denomination or denominations
(which shall be $250,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof)
of the Notes to be issued to the holder for the portion of this Note not being
repaid (in the absence of any such specification, one such Note will be issued
for the portion not being repaid):


$______________________________   ______________________________
                                  NOTICE:  The signature on this
Dated: ________________________   "Option to Elect Repayment" form 
                                  must correspond with the name as 
                                  written upon the face of the 
                                  within Note in every particular, 
                                  without alteration or enlargement
                                  or any change whatsoever.






________________________________
     Signature Guarantee




                                     A-1-16
<PAGE>   141
                                                           EXHIBIT 10.13 CONT. 

                                                                   EXHIBIT A-2 

THIS NOTE IS AN OBLIGATION SOLELY OF BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO (THE "BANK")
AND WILL NOT BE AN OBLIGATION OF, OR OTHERWISE GUARANTEED BY, ANY OTHER BANK OR
BANPONCE CORPORATION.  THIS NOTE DOES NOT EVIDENCE DEPOSITS OF THE BANK AND IS
NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER
GOVERNMENT AGENCY.  THE OBLIGATIONS EVIDENCED BY THIS NOTE RANK PARI PASSU WITH
ALL OTHER SENIOR UNSECURED INDEBTEDNESS OF THE BANK, EXCEPT DEPOSIT LIABILITIES
(AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 11(D)(11) OF THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE ACT) AND
OTHER OBLIGATIONS THAT ARE SUBJECT TO ANY PRIORITIES OR PREFERENCES.  IN A
LIQUIDATION OR OTHER RESOLUTION OF THE BANK, THIS NOTE WOULD BE TREATED
DIFFERENTLY FROM, AND HOLDERS OF THIS NOTE COULD RECEIVE, IF ANYTHING,
SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN HOLDERS OF, DEPOSIT LIABILITIES OF THE BANK.

UNLESS THIS NOTE IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY
TRUST COMPANY (55 WATER STREET, NEW YORK, NEW YORK) (THE "DEPOSITARY") TO THE
BANK OR ITS AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY
NOTE ISSUED UPON REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER OF, OR IN EXCHANGE FOR, OR IN LIEU
OF, THIS NOTE IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER NAME AS
REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITARY AND ANY PAYMENT
HEREON IS MADE TO CEDE & CO., ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR
VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL SINCE THE REGISTERED OWNER
HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.

THIS GLOBAL SECURITY MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED EXCEPT AS A WHOLE BY THE DEPOSITARY
TO A NOMINEE OF THE DEPOSITARY OR BY THE DEPOSITARY OR ANY SUCH NOMINEE TO A
SUCCESSOR DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE OF SUCH SUCCESSOR DEPOSITARY.

THIS NOTE IS ISSUABLE ONLY IN FULLY REGISTERED FORM IN MINIMUM DENOMINATIONS OF
$250,000 AND INTEGRAL MULTIPLES OF $1,000 IN EXCESS THEREOF.  EACH OWNER OF A
BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN THIS NOTE MUST BE AN INSTITUTIONAL INVESTOR WHO IS AN
"ACCREDITED INVESTOR" WITHIN THE MEANING OF RULE 501 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT
OF 1933, AS AMENDED, AND IS REQUIRED TO HOLD A BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN $250,000
PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OR ANY INTEGRAL MULTIPLE OF $1,000 IN EXCESS THEREOF OF THIS
NOTE AT ALL TIMES.





                                     A-2-1
<PAGE>   142

No. FLR-__________
CUSIP NO.:____________                                   REGISTERED

                         BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO
                               GLOBAL BANK NOTE
                               (Floating Rate)
<TABLE>
<S>                                        <C>
ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE:                       PRINCIPAL AMOUNT:

INITIAL INTEREST RATE:  _____%             MATURITY DATE:

INTEREST RATE BASIS OR BASES:              INDEX MATURITY:

IF LIBOR:                                  REGULAR RECORD
         [ ]     Libor Telerate            DATES (if other than the 15th day
         [ ]     Libor Reuters              prior to each Interest Payment Date):

INDEX CURRENCY:

                                           MINIMUM INTEREST RATE:
SPREAD (PLUS OR MINUS)
AND/OR SPREAD MULTIPLIER:                  INTEREST PAYMENT PERIOD:

MAXIMUM INTEREST RATE:                     INTEREST RESET PERIOD:

INTEREST PAYMENT DATES:                    CALCULATION AGENT:

INITIAL INTEREST RESET DATES:              ANNUAL REDEMPTION
                                           PERCENTAGE REDUCTION:
INTEREST RESET DATES:
                                           HOLDER'S OPTIONAL
                                           REPAYMENT DATE(S):
INITIAL REDEMPTION DATE:
                                           DAY COUNT CONVENTION
                                                    [ ] 30/360 for the period
INITIAL REDEMPTION PERCENTAGE:                          from        to           .

                                           [ ] Actual/360 for the period
                                               from         to          .
INTEREST CALCULATION:
[ ] Regular Floating Rate Note             [ ] Actual/Actual for the period
[ ] Floating Rate/Fixed Rate                   from              to          .
    Fixed Rate Commencement Date:
    Fixed Interest Rate:                   ORIGINAL ISSUE DISCOUNT
[ ] Inverse Floating Rate Note             [ ] Yes
    Fixed Interest Rate:                   [ ] No
</TABLE>




                                    A-2-2
<PAGE>   143

<TABLE>
<S>                                                <C>
ADDENDUM ATTACHED:                                 Total Amount of OID:
[ ] Yes                                            Yield to Maturity:
[ ] No                                             Initial Accrual Period:

OTHER PROVISIONS:                                  DEFAULT RATE: _____%
</TABLE>





                                     A-2-3
<PAGE>   144
The Bank, for value received, hereby promises to pay to CEDE & CO., or
registered assigns, the principal sum of ______________________________________
United States Dollars on the Maturity Date specified above (except to the extent
redeemed or repaid prior to the Maturity Date) and to pay interest thereon from
and including the Original Issue Date specified above or from and including the
most recent interest payment date to which interest on this Note (or any
predecessor Note) has been paid or duly provided for, on the Interest Payment
Dates specified above (each, an "Interest Payment Date") and at maturity or upon
earlier redemption or repayment, if applicable, commencing on the first Interest
Payment Date next succeeding the Original Issue Date (or, if the Original Issue
Date is between a Regular Record Date (as defined below) and the Interest
Payment Date immediately following such Regular Record Date, on the second
Interest Payment Date following the Original Issue Date), at a rate per annum
equal to the Initial Interest Rate specified above until the Initial Interest
Reset Date specified above and thereafter at a rate per annum determined in
accordance with the provisions hereof and any Addendum relating hereto depending
upon the Interest Rate Basis or Bases, if any, and such other terms specified
above, until the principal hereof is paid or made available for payment, and (to
the extent that the payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable) at
the Default Rate per annum specified above on any overdue principal and premium,
if any, and on any overdue installment of interest.  If no Default Rate is
specified above, the Default Rate shall be the Interest Rate on this Note
specified above.  The interest so payable, and punctually paid or duly provided
for, on any Interest Payment Date will be paid to the person in whose name this
Note (or any predecessor Note) is registered at the close of business on the
Regular Record Date, which shall be the 15th calendar day (whether or not a
Business Day (as defined below)) prior to such Interest Payment Date (unless
otherwise specified on the face hereof) (each, a "Regular Record Date");
provided, however, that interest payable at maturity or upon earlier redemption
or repayment, if applicable, will be payable to the person to whom principal
shall be payable.  Any such interest not so punctually paid or duly provided for
shall forthwith cease to be payable to the holder as of the close of business on
such Regular Record Date and may either be paid to the person in whose name this
Note (or any predecessor Note) is registered at the close of business on a
special record date for





                                     A-2-4
<PAGE>   145

the payment of such defaulted interest (the "Special Record Date") to be fixed
by the Bank, notice of which shall be given to the holders of Notes not less
than 10 calendar days prior to such Special Record Date, or be paid at any time
in any other lawful manner.

         Payment of principal of, premium, if any, and interest on this Note
will be made in such coin or currency of the United States of America as at the
time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts.  The
Bank will at all times appoint and maintain an issuing and paying agent (the
"Issuing and Paying Agent", which term shall include any successor Issuing and
Paying Agent), authorized by the Bank to pay principal of, premium, if any, and
interest on this Note on behalf of the Bank pursuant to an issuing and paying
agency agreement (the "Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement") and having an
office or agency (the "Issuing and Paying Agent Office") in The City of New
York or the city in which the Bank is headquartered (the "Place of Payment"),
where this Note may be presented or surrendered for payment and where notices,
designations or requests in respect of payments with respect to this Note may
be served.  The Bank has initially appointed The Chase Manhattan Bank as the
Issuing and Paying Agent, with the Issuing and Paying Agent Office currently
located at 450 West 33rd Street, New York, New York 10001, Attention: Agency
Administration.  The Bank may remove the Issuing and Paying Agent pursuant to
the terms of the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement and may appoint a
successor Issuing and Paying Agent.

         Payment of principal of, premium, if any, and interest on this Note
due at maturity or upon earlier redemption or repayment, if applicable, will be
made in immediately available funds upon presentation and surrender of this
Note to the Issuing and Paying Agent at the Issuing and Paying Agent Office;
provided that this Note is presented to the Issuing and Paying Agent in time
for the Issuing and Paying Agent to make such payment in accordance with its
normal procedures.  Payments of interest on this Note (other than at maturity
or upon earlier redemption or repayment) will be made by wire transfer to such
account as has been appropriately designated to the Issuing and Paying Agent by
the person entitled to such payments.





                                     A-2-5
<PAGE>   146

         Reference herein to "this Note", "hereof", "herein" and comparable
terms shall include an Addendum hereto if an Addendum is specified above.

         Reference is hereby made to the further provisions of this Note set
forth on the reverse hereof, which further provisions shall for all purposes
have the same effect as if set forth at this place.





                                     A-2-6
<PAGE>   147

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Bank has caused this Note to be duly executed.




                                           By:                                 
                                               --------------------------------
                                                    Authorized Signatory



                                           By:                                
                                               --------------------------------
                                                    Authorized Signatory


Dated:





ISSUING AND PAYING AGENT'S CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION

This is one of the Notes referred to in the Issuing and Paying Agency
Agreement.


THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK
  as Issuing and Paying Agent


By:  ___________________________________
            Authorized Signatory





                                     A-2-7
<PAGE>   148


                                   [Reverse]


         This Note is one of a duly authorized issue of Bank Notes due from 30
days to 15 years from date of issue of the Bank (the "Notes").

         If any Interest Payment Date (other than an Interest Payment Date at
the Maturity Date or date of earlier redemption or repayment of this Note)
would otherwise fall on a day that is not a Business Day, such Interest Payment
Date shall be postponed to the next succeeding day that is a Business Day,
except that if an  Interest Rate Basis is LIBOR, as indicated on the face
hereof, and such next Business Day falls in the next succeeding calendar month,
such Interest Payment Date shall be the immediately preceding day that is a
Business Day.  Except as provided above, interest payments will be made on the
Interest Payment Dates shown on the face hereof.  If the Maturity Date or date
of earlier redemption or repayment of this Note falls on a day which is not a
Business Day, the related payment of principal of, premium, if any, or interest
on this Note will be made on the next succeeding Business Day with the same
force and effect as if made on the date such payment was due, and no interest
shall accrue on the amount so payable for the period from and after such
Maturity Date or date of earlier redemption or repayment, as the case may be.

         This Note will not be subject to any sinking fund.  If so provided on
the face of this Note, this Note may be redeemed by the Bank either in whole or
in part on (unless otherwise specified on the face hereof) and after the
Initial Redemption Date, if any, specified on the face hereof.  If no Initial
Redemption Date is specified on the face hereof, this Note may not be redeemed
prior to the Maturity Date.  On and after the Initial Redemption Date, if any,
this Note may be redeemed in increments of $1,000 (provided that any remaining
principal amount hereof shall be at least $250,000) at the option of the Bank
at the applicable Redemption Price (as defined below), together with unpaid
interest accrued hereon at the applicable rate borne by this Note to the date
of redemption (each such date, a "Redemption Date"), on written notice given
not more than 60 nor less than 30 calendar days prior to the Redemption Date to
the registered holder hereof (unless otherwise





                                     A-2-8
<PAGE>   149

specified on the face hereof).  Whenever less than all the Notes at any time
outstanding are to be redeemed, the terms of the Notes to be so redeemed shall
be selected by the Bank.  If less than all the Notes with identical terms at
any time outstanding are to be redeemed, the Notes to be so redeemed shall be
selected by the Issuing and Paying Agent by lot or in any usual manner approved
by it.  In the event of redemption of this Note in part only, a new Note for
the unredeemed portion hereof shall be issued in the name of the holder hereof
upon the surrender hereof.

         The "Redemption Price" shall initially be the Initial Redemption
Percentage specified on the face hereof of the principal amount of this Note to
be redeemed and shall decline at each anniversary of the Initial Redemption
Date specified on the face hereof by the Annual Redemption Percentage
Reduction, if any, specified on the face hereof, of the principal amount to be
redeemed until the Redemption Price is 100% of such principal amount.

         This Note may be subject to repayment at the option of the holder
hereof in accordance with the terms hereof on any Holder's Optional Repayment
Date(s), if any, specified on the face hereof.  If no Holder's Optional
Repayment Date is specified on the face hereof, this Note will not be repayable
at the option of the holder hereof prior to maturity.  On any Holder's Optional
Repayment Date, this Note will be repayable in whole or in part in increments
of $1,000 (provided that any remaining principal amount hereof will be at least
$250,000) at the option of the holder hereof at a repayment price equal to 100%
of the principal amount to be repaid, together with accrued and unpaid interest
hereon payable to the date of repayment.  For this Note to be repaid in whole
or in part at the option of the holder hereof on a Holder's Optional Repayment
Date, this Note must be delivered, with the form entitled "Option to Elect
Repayment" attached hereto duly completed, to the Issuing and Paying Agent at
its offices located at 450 West 33rd Street, New York, New York 10001,
Attention: Agency Administration, or at such other address which the Bank shall
from time to time notify the holders of the Notes, not more than 60 nor less
than 30 calendar days prior to such Holder's Optional Repayment Date.  In the
event of repayment of this Note in part only, a new Note for the unrepaid
portion hereof shall be issued in the name of the





                                     A-2-9
<PAGE>   150

holder hereof upon the surrender hereof.  Exercise of such repayment option by
the holder hereof shall be irrevocable.

         The interest rate borne by this Note shall be determined as follows:

1.       If this Note is designated as a Regular Floating Rate Note on the face
hereof or if no designation is made for Interest Calculation on the face
hereof, then, except as described below or in an Addendum hereto, this Note
shall bear interest at the rate determined by reference to the applicable
Interest Rate Basis or Bases shown on the face hereof (i) plus or minus the
applicable Spread, if any, and/or (ii) multiplied by the applicable Spread
Multiplier, if any, specified and applied in the manner described on the face
hereof.  Commencing on the Initial Interest Reset Date, the rate at which
interest on this Note is payable shall be reset as of each Interest Reset Date
specified on the face hereof; provided, however, that the interest rate in
effect for the period from the Original Issue Date to the Initial Interest
Reset Date will be the Initial Interest Rate.

                 2.       If this Note is designated as a Floating Rate/Fixed
         Rate Note on the face hereof, then, except as described below or in an
         Addendum hereto, this Note shall bear interest at the rate determined
         by reference to the applicable Interest Rate Basis or Bases shown on
         the face hereof (i) plus or minus the applicable Spread, if any,
         and/or (ii) multiplied by the applicable Spread Multiplier, if any,
         specified and applied in the manner described on the face hereof.
         Commencing on the Initial Interest Reset Date, the rate at which
         interest on this Note is payable shall be reset as of each Interest
         Reset Date specified on the face hereof; provided, however, that (i)
         the interest rate in effect for the period from the Original Issue
         Date to the Initial Interest Reset Date shall be the Initial Interest
         Rate; and (ii) the interest rate in effect commencing on, and
         including, the Fixed Rate Commencement Date to the Maturity Date or
         date of earlier redemption or repayment shall be the Fixed Interest
         Rate, if such a rate is specified on the face hereof, or if no such
         Fixed Interest Rate is so specified, the interest rate in effect
         hereon on





                                     A-2-10
<PAGE>   151

         the Business Day immediately preceding the Fixed Rate Commencement
         Date.

                 3.       If this Note is designated as an Inverse Floating
         Rate Note on the face hereof, then, except as described below or in an
         Addendum hereto, this Note shall bear interest equal to the Fixed
         Interest Rate indicated on the face hereof minus the rate determined
         by reference to the applicable Interest Rate Basis or Bases shown on
         the face hereof (i) plus or minus the applicable Spread, if any,
         and/or (ii) multiplied by the applicable Spread Multiplier, if any,
         specified and applied in the manner described on the face hereof;
         provided, however, that, unless otherwise specified on the face
         hereof, the interest rate hereon will not be less than zero percent.
         Commencing on the Initial Interest Reset Date, the rate at which
         interest on this Note is payable shall be reset as of each Interest
         Reset Date specified on the face hereof; provided, however, that the 
         interest rate in effect for the period from the Original Issue
         Date to the Initial Interest Reset Date shall be the Initial Interest
         Rate.

         Notwithstanding the foregoing, if this Note is designated on the face
hereof as having an Addendum attached, this Note shall bear interest in
accordance with the terms described in such Addendum.

         Except as provided above, the interest rate in effect on each day
shall be (a) if such day is an Interest Reset Date, the interest rate
determined as of the Interest Determination Date (as defined below) immediately
preceding such Interest Reset Date or (b) if such day is not an Interest Reset
Date, the interest rate determined as of the Interest Determination Date
immediately preceding the next preceding Interest Reset Date.  Each Interest
Rate Basis shall be the rate determined in accordance with the applicable
provision below.  If any Interest Reset Date (which term includes the term
Initial Interest Reset Date unless the context otherwise requires) would
otherwise be a day that is not a Business Day, such Interest Reset Date shall
be postponed to the next succeeding day that is a Business Day, except that if
an Interest Rate Basis specified on the face hereof is LIBOR and such next
Business Day falls in the next succeeding calendar month, such





                                     A-2-11
<PAGE>   152

Interest Reset Date shall be the immediately preceding Business Day.

         Unless otherwise specified on the face hereof, interest payable on
this Note on any Interest Payment Date shall be the amount of interest accrued
from and including the next preceding Interest Payment Date in respect of which
interest has been paid (or from and including the Original Issue Date specified
on the face hereof, if no interest has been paid), to but excluding the related
Interest Payment Date or Maturity Date or date of earlier redemption or
repayment, as the case may be.

         Unless otherwise specified on the face hereof, accrued interest hereon
shall be an amount calculated by multiplying the face amount hereof by an
accrued interest factor.  Such accrued interest factor shall be computed by
adding the interest factor calculated for each day in the period for which
accrued interest is being calculated.  Unless otherwise specified on the face
hereof, the interest factor for each such day shall be computed and paid on the
basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months if the Day Count Convention
specified on the face hereof is "30/360" for the period specified thereunder,
or by dividing the interest rate applicable to such day by 360 if the Day Count
Convention specified on the face hereof is "Actual/360" for the period
specified thereunder or by the actual number of days in the year if the Day
Count Convention specified on the face hereof is "Actual/Actual" for the period
specified thereunder.  If interest on this Note is to be calculated with
reference to two or more Interest Rate Bases as specified on the face hereof,
the interest factor will be calculated in each period in the same manner as if
only one of the applicable Interest Rate Bases applied.

         Unless otherwise specified on the face hereof, the "Interest
Determination Date" with respect to the Commercial Paper Rate, the Federal
Funds Rate and the Prime Rate will be the second Business Day preceding each
Interest Reset Date; the "Interest Determination Date" with respect to the
Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate will be the last working day of the month
immediately preceding each Interest Reset Date on which the Federal Home Loan
Bank of San Francisco (the "FHLB of San Francisco") publishes the Index (as
defined below); the "Interest Determination Date" with respect to LIBOR shall
be the second London Business Day (as defined below)





                                     A-2-12
<PAGE>   153

preceding each Interest Reset Date; the "Interest Determination Date" with
respect to the Treasury Rate will be the day in the week in which the related
Interest Reset Date falls on which day Treasury Bills (as defined below) are
normally auctioned (Treasury Bills are normally sold at auction on Monday of
each week, unless that day is a legal holiday, in which case the auction is
normally held on the following Tuesday, except that such auction may be held on
the preceding Friday); provided, however, that if an auction is held on the
Friday of the week preceding the related Interest Reset Date, the related
Interest Determination Date shall be such preceding Friday; and provided,
further, that if an auction shall fall on any Interest Reset Date, then the
Interest Reset Date shall instead be the first Business Day following such
auction.  If the interest rate of this Note is determined with reference to two
or more Interest Rate Bases as specified on the face hereof, the Interest
Determination Date pertaining to this Note will be the latest  Business Day
which is at least two Business Days prior to such Interest Reset Date on which
each Interest Rate Basis is determinable.  Each Interest Rate Basis shall be
determined on such date, and the applicable interest rate shall take effect on
the Interest Reset Date.

         Unless otherwise specified on the face hereof, the "Calculation Date"
pertaining to any Interest Determination Date will be the earlier of (i) the
tenth calendar day after such Interest Determination Date or, if such day is
not a Business Day, the next succeeding Business Day and (ii) the Business Day
immediately preceding the applicable Interest Payment Date or Maturity Date or
date of earlier redemption or repayment, as the case may be.  All calculations
on this Note shall be made by the Calculation Agent specified on the face
hereof or such successor thereto as is duly appointed by the Bank.

         All percentages resulting from any calculation on this Note 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 0.09876545) would be rounded to 9.87655% (or 0.0987655) and
9.876544% (or 0.09876544) would be rounded to 9.87654% (or 0.0987654)), and all
dollar amounts used in or resulting from such calculation will be rounded to
the nearest cent (with one-half cent being rounded upward).





                                     A-2-13
<PAGE>   154


         As used herein, "Business Day" means, unless otherwise specified on
the face hereof, any day that is not a Saturday or Sunday and that in The City
of New York or in the city in which the Bank is headquartered is not a bank
holiday or a day on which banking institutions are required by law, regulation
or executive order to close and, if an Interest Rate Basis shown on the face
hereof is LIBOR, is also a London Business Day.

         As used herein, unless otherwise specified on the face hereof, "London
Business Day" means any day on which dealings in deposits in U.S. dollars are
transacted in the London interbank market.

         Determination of Commercial Paper Rate.  If an Interest Rate Basis 
for this Note is the Commercial Paper Rate, as indicated on the face hereof,
the Commercial Paper Rate shall be determined as of the applicable Interest
Determination Date (a "Commercial Paper Rate Interest Determination Date"), as
the Money Market Yield (as defined below) on such date of the rate for
commercial paper having the Index Maturity specified on the face hereof as
published by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System in the weekly
statistical release entitled "Statistical Release H.15(519), Selected Interest
Rates," or any successor publication of the Board of Governors of the Federal
Reserve System ("H.15(519)") under the heading "Commercial Paper".  In the
event that such rate is not published by 3:00 P.M., New York City time, on the
related Calculation Date, then the Commercial Paper Rate shall be the Money
Market Yield on such Commercial Paper Rate Interest Determination Date of the
rate for commercial paper having the Index Maturity shown on the face hereof as
published in the daily statistical release entitled "Composite 3:30 P.M.
Quotations for U.S.  Government Securities" or any successor publication
published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York ("Composite Quotations")
under the heading "Commercial Paper" (with an Index Maturity of one month or
three months being deemed to be equivalent to an Index Maturity of 30 days or
90 days, respectively).  If by 3:00 P.M., New York City time, on the related
Calculation Date such rate is not yet published in either H.15(519) or
Composite Quotations, then the Commercial Paper Rate on such Commercial Paper
Rate Interest Determination Date shall be calculated by the Calculation Agent
and shall be the Money Market Yield of the arithmetic mean of the offered rates
at approximately 11:00 A.M., New York City time, on such Commercial Paper Rate
Interest Determination Date of three





                                     A-2-14
<PAGE>   155

leading dealers of commercial paper in The City of New York selected by the
Calculation Agent for commercial paper having the Index Maturity specified on
the face hereof placed for an industrial issuer whose bond rating is "AA," or
the equivalent, from a nationally recognized securities rating agency;
provided, however, that if any of the dealers selected as aforesaid by the
Calculation Agent are not quoting as mentioned in this sentence, the Commercial
Paper Rate determined as of such Commercial Paper Rate Interest Determination
Date shall be the rate in effect on such Commercial Paper Rate Interest
Determination Date.

         "Money Market Yield" shall be a yield (expressed as a percentage)
calculated in accordance with the following formula:

<TABLE>
                          <S>                   <C>        <C>
                          Money Market Yield =
                                                D x 360    x 100
                                              ------------      
                                               360-(D x M)
</TABLE>

where "D" refers to the applicable per annum rate for commercial paper quoted
on a bank discount basis and expressed as a decimal and "M" refers to the
actual number of days in the interest period for which interest is being
calculated.

         Determination of Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate.  If an Interest
Rate Basis for this Note is the Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate, as
indicated on the face hereof, the Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate shall be
determined as of the applicable Interest Determination Date (an "Eleventh
District Cost of Funds Rate Interest Determination Date"), as the rate equal to
the monthly weighted average cost of funds for the calendar month immediately
preceding the month in which such Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Interest
Determination Date falls, as set forth under the caption "11th District" on
Telerate Page 7058 as of 11:00 A.M., San Francisco time, on such Eleventh
District Cost of Funds Rate Interest Determination Date.  If such rate does not
appear on Telerate Page 7058 on any related Eleventh District Cost of Funds
Rate Interest Determination Date, the Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate for
such Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Interest Determination Date shall be
the monthly weighted average cost of funds paid by member institutions of the
Eleventh Federal Home Loan Bank District that was most recently announced (the
"Index") by the FHLB of San Francisco as such cost of funds for the calendar
month immediately preceding the date of such announcement.  If the FHLB





                                     A-2-15
<PAGE>   156

of San Francisco fails to announce such rate for the calendar month immediately
preceding such Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Interest Determination
Date, then the Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate determined as of such
Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate Interest Determination Date shall be the
Eleventh District Cost of Funds Rate in effect on such Eleventh District Cost
of Funds Rate Interest Determination Date.

         "Telerate Page 7058" means the display designated as page "7058" on
the Dow Jones Telerate Service (or such other page as may replace the 7058 page
on that service for the purpose of displaying the monthly weighted average cost
of funds paid by member institutions of the Eleventh Federal Home Loan Bank
District).

         Determination of Federal Funds Rate.  If an Interest Rate Basis for 
this Note is the Federal Funds Rate, as indicated on the face hereof, the
Federal Funds Rate shall be determined as of the applicable Interest
Determination Date (a "Federal Funds Rate Interest Determination Date"), as the
rate on such date for federal funds as published in H.15(519) under the heading
"Federal Funds (Effective)" or, if not so published by 3:00 P.M., New York City
time, on the related Calculation Date, the rate on such Federal Funds Rate
Interest Determination Date, as published in Composite Quotations under the
heading "Federal Funds/Effective Rate."  If by 3:00 P.M., New York City time,
on the related Calculation Date such rate is not published in either H.15(519)
or Composite Quotations, then the Federal Funds Rate on such Federal Funds Rate
Interest Determination Date shall be calculated by the Calculation Agent and
shall be the arithmetic mean of the rates for the last transaction in overnight
United States dollar federal funds arranged prior to 9:00 A.M., New York City
time, on such Federal Funds Rate Interest Determination Date by three leading
brokers of federal funds transactions in The City of New York selected by the
Calculation Agent; provided, however, that if any of the brokers selected as
aforesaid by the Calculation Agent are not quoting as mentioned in this
sentence, the Federal Funds Rate determined as of such Federal Funds Rate
Interest Determination Date shall be the Federal Funds Rate in effect on such
Federal Funds Rate Interest Determination Date.

         Determination of LIBOR.  If an Interest Rate Basis for this Note is
LIBOR, as indicated on the face hereof, LIBOR shall be





                                     A-2-16
<PAGE>   157

determined by the Calculation Agent as of the applicable Interest Determination
Date (a "LIBOR Interest Determination Date") in accordance with the following
provisions:

                 (a)      With respect to any LIBOR Interest Determination
         Date, LIBOR will be, as specified on the face hereof, either:  (i) the
         rate for deposits in U.S. dollars having the Index Maturity designated
         on the face hereof, commencing on the second London Business Day
         immediately following that LIBOR Interest Determination Date, that
         appears on the Telerate Page 3750 as of 11:00 A.M., London time, on
         that LIBOR Interest Determination Date ("LIBOR Telerate") or (ii) the
         arithmetic mean of the offered rates for deposits in U.S.  dollars
         having the Index Maturity designated on the face hereof, commencing on
         the second London Business Day immediately following that LIBOR
         Interest Determination Date, that appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO
         Page as of 11:00 A.M., London time, on that LIBOR Interest
         Determination Date, if at least two such offered rates appear on the
         Reuters Screen LIBO Page ("LIBOR Reuters").  "Telerate Page 3750"
         means the display designated as page "3750" on the Telerate Service
         (or such other page as may replace the 3750 page on that service or
         such other service or services as may be nominated by the British
         Bankers' Association for the purpose of displaying London interbank
         offered rates for U.S. dollar deposits).  "Reuters Screen LIBO Page"
         means the display designated as page "LIBO" on the Reuters Monitor
         Money Rates Service (or such other page as may replace the LIBO page
         on that service for the purpose of displaying London interbank offered
         rates of major banks).  If neither LIBOR Telerate nor LIBOR Reuters is
         specified on the face hereof, LIBOR will be determined as if LIBOR
         Telerate had been specified.  If no rate appears on the Telerate Page
         3750, or if fewer than two offered rates appear on the Reuters Screen
         LIBO Page, as applicable, LIBOR in respect of that LIBOR Interest
         Determination Date will be determined as if the parties had specified
         the rate described in (b) below.

                 (b)  With respect to a LIBOR Interest Determination Date on
         which no rate appears on Telerate Page 3750, as specified in (a)(i)
         above, or on which fewer than two offered rates appear on the Reuters
         Screen LIBO Page, as specified in (a)(ii) above, as applicable, LIBOR
         will be determined on the





                                     A-2-17
<PAGE>   158

         basis of the rates at which deposits in U.S. dollars having the Index
         Maturity designated on the face hereof, are offered at approximately
         11:00 A.M., London time, on that LIBOR Interest Determination Date by
         four major banks in the London interbank market selected by the
         Calculation Agent ("Reference Banks") to prime banks in the London
         interbank market commencing on the second London Business Day
         immediately following that LIBOR Interest Determination Date and in a
         principal amount equal to an amount of not less than $1,000,000 that
         is representative for a single transaction in such market at such
         time.  The Calculation Agent will request the principal London office
         of each of the Reference Banks to provide a quotation of its rate.  If
         at least two such quotations are provided, LIBOR in respect of that
         LIBOR Interest Determination Date will be the arithmetic mean of such
         quotations.  If fewer than two quotations are provided, LIBOR in
         respect of that LIBOR Interest Determination Date will be the
         arithmetic mean of the rates quoted at approximately 11:00 A.M., New
         York City time, on that LIBOR Interest Determination Date by three
         major banks in The City of New York selected by the Calculation Agent
         for loans in U.S. dollars to leading European banks having the Index
         Maturity designated on the face hereof, commencing on the second
         London Business Day immediately following that LIBOR Interest
         Determination Date and in a principal amount equal to an amount of not
         less than $1,000,000 that is representative for a single transaction
         in such market at such time; provided, however, that if the banks
         selected as aforesaid by the Calculation Agent are not quoting as
         mentioned in this sentence, LIBOR with respect to such LIBOR Interest
         Determination Date will be the rate of LIBOR in effect on such date.

         Determination of Prime Rate.  If an Interest Rate Basis for this Note
is the Prime Rate, as indicated on the face hereof, the Prime Rate shall be
determined as of the applicable Interest Determination Date (a "Prime Rate
Interest Determination Date") as the rate on such date as such rate is
published in H.15(519) under the heading "Bank Prime Loan".  If such rate is
not published prior to 3:00 P.M., New York City time, on the related
Calculation Date, then the Prime Rate shall be the arithmetic mean of the rates
of interest publicly announced by each bank that appears on the





                                     A-2-18
<PAGE>   159

Reuters Screen USPRIME1 Page (as defined below) as such bank's prime rate or
base lending rate as in effect for such Prime Rate Interest Determination Date.
If fewer than four such rates appear on the Reuters Screen USPRIME1 Page for
such Prime Rate Interest Determination Date, the Prime Rate shall be the
arithmetic mean of the prime rates quoted on the basis of the actual number of
days in the year divided by a 360-day year as of the close of business on such
Prime Rate Interest Determination Date by four major money center banks in The
City of New York selected by the Calculation Agent.  If fewer than four major
money center banks provide such quotations, the Prime Rate will be determined
by the Calculation Agent and will be the arithmetic mean of four prime rates,
quoted on the basis of the actual number of days in the year divided by a
360-day year, as of the close of business on such Prime Rate Interest
Determination Date as furnished in The City of New York by the major money
center banks, if any, that have provided quotations and as many substitute
banks or trust companies as is necessary in order to obtain four such prime
rate quotations, provided such substitute banks or trust companies are
organized and doing business under the laws of the United States, or any state
thereof, each having total equity capital of at least U.S. $500 million and
being subject to supervision or examination by federal or state authority,
selected by the Calculation Agent to provide such rate or rates; provided,
however, that if the banks or trust companies selected as aforesaid are not
quoting as mentioned in this sentence, the Prime Rate determined as of such
Prime Rate Interest Determination Date shall be the Prime Rate in effect on
such Prime Rate Interest Determination Date.

         "Reuters Screen USPRIME1 Page" means the display designated as page
"USPRIME1" on the Reuters Monitor Money Rates Service (or such other page as
may replace the USPRIME1 page on that service for the purpose of displaying
prime rates or base lending rates of major United States banks).

         Determination of Treasury Rate.  If an Interest Rate Basis for this
Note is the Treasury Rate, as specified on the face hereof, the Treasury Rate
shall be determined as of the applicable Interest Determination Date (a
"Treasury Rate Interest Determination Date") as the rate applicable to the most
recent auction of direct obligations of the United States ("Treasury Bills")
having the Index Maturity specified on the face hereof, as such rate is





                                     A-2-19
<PAGE>   160

published in H.15(519) under the heading "Treasury Bills -- auction average
(investment)" or, if not published by 3:00 P.M., New York City time, on the
related Calculation Date, the auction average rate (expressed as a bond
equivalent on the basis of a year of 365 or 366 days, as applicable, and
applied on a daily basis) as otherwise announced by the United States
Department of the Treasury.  In the event that the results of the auction of
Treasury Bills having the Index Maturity specified on the face hereof are not
reported as provided by 3:00 P.M., New York City time, on such Calculation
Date, or if no such auction is held in a particular week, then the Treasury
Rate shall be calculated by the Calculation Agent and shall be a yield to
maturity (expressed as a bond equivalent on the basis of a year of 365 or 366
days, as applicable, and applied on a daily basis) of the arithmetic mean of
the secondary market bid rates, as of approximately 3:30 P.M., New York City
time, on such Treasury Rate Interest Determination Date, of three leading
primary United States government securities dealers selected by the Calculation
Agent, for the issue of Treasury Bills with a remaining maturity closest to the
Index Maturity specified on the face hereof; provided, however, that if any of
the dealers selected as aforesaid by the Calculation Agent are not quoting as
mentioned in this sentence, the Treasury Rate determined as of such Treasury
Rate Interest Determination Date shall be the Treasury Rate in effect on such
Treasury Rate Interest Determination Date.

         Any provision contained herein, including the determination of an
Interest Rate Basis, the specification of an Interest Rate Basis, calculation
of the interest rate applicable to this Note, its Interest Payment Dates or any
other matter relating hereto may be modified as specified in an Addendum
relating hereto if so specified on the face hereof.

         Notwithstanding the foregoing, the interest rate hereon shall not be
greater than the Maximum Interest Rate, if any, or  less than the Minimum
Interest Rate, if any, specified on the face hereof.  In addition to any
Maximum Interest Rate applicable hereto pursuant to the above provisions, the
interest rate on this Note will in no event be higher than the maximum rate
permitted by New York law, as the same may be modified by United States law of
general application.  The Calculation Agent shall calculate the interest rate
hereon in accordance with the foregoing on or before





                                     A-2-20
<PAGE>   161

each Calculation Date.  Unless otherwise specified on the face hereof, The
Chase Manhattan Bank will be the Calculation Agent.

         At the request of the Holder hereof, the Calculation Agent shall
provide to the Holder hereof the interest rate hereon then in effect and, if
determined, the interest rate which shall become effective as of the next
Interest Reset Date.

         If this Note is an Original Issue Discount Note and if an Event of
Default with respect to this Note shall have occurred and be continuing, the
Default Amount (as defined hereafter) of this Note may be declared due and
payable in the manner and with the effect provided herein.  The "Default
Amount" shall be equal to the adjusted issue price as of the first day of the
accrual period as determined under Final Treasury Regulation Section
1.1275-1(b) (or successor regulation) under the United States Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended, in which the date of acceleration occurs increased by
the daily portion of the original issue discount for each day in such accrual
period ending on the date of acceleration, as determined under Final Treasury
Regulation Section 1.1272-1(b) (or successor regulation) under the United
States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.  Upon payment of (i) the
principal, or premium, if any, so declared due and payable and (ii) interest on
any overdue principal and overdue interest or premium, if any (in each case to
the extent that the payment of such interest shall be legally enforceable), all
of the Bank's obligations in respect of the payment of principal of, premium,
if any, and interest on this Note shall terminate.

         In case any Note shall at any time become mutilated, destroyed, lost
or stolen, and such Note or evidence of the loss, theft or destruction thereof
satisfactory to the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent and such other
documents or proof as may be required by the Bank and the Issuing and Paying
Agent shall be delivered to the Issuing and Paying Agent, the Bank shall issue
a new Note, of like tenor and principal amount, having a serial number not
contemporaneously outstanding, in exchange and substitution for the mutilated
Note or in lieu of the Note destroyed, lost or stolen but, in the case of any
destroyed, lost or stolen Note, only upon receipt of evidence satisfactory to
the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent that such Note was destroyed, stolen
or lost, and, if required, upon receipt of indemnity





                                     A-2-21
<PAGE>   162

satisfactory to the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent.  Upon the issuance
of any substituted Note, the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent may require
the payment of a sum sufficient to cover all expenses and reasonable charges
connected with the preparation and delivery of a new Note.  If any Note which
has matured or has been redeemed or repaid or is about to mature or to be
redeemed or repaid shall become mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen, the Bank
may, instead of issuing a substitute Note, pay or authorize the payment of the
same (without surrender thereof except in the case of a mutilated Note) upon
compliance by the holder with the provisions of this paragraph.

         No recourse shall be had for the payment of principal of, premium, if
any, or interest on this Note for any claim based hereon, or otherwise in
respect hereof, against any shareholder, employee, agent, officer or director,
as such, past, present or future, of the Bank or of any successor corporation,
banking association or other legal entity (collectively, "corporation"), either
directly or through the Bank or any corporation, whether by virtue of any
constitution, statute or rule of law or by the enforcement of any assessment or
penalty or otherwise, all such liability being, by the acceptance hereof and as
part of the consideration for the issue hereof, expressly waived and released.

         The occurrence of any of the following events shall constitute an
"Event of Default" with respect to this Note: (i) default in the payment of any
interest with respect to any of the Notes issued by the Bank when due, which
continues for 30 calendar days; (ii) default in the payment of any principal
of, or premium, if any, on any of the Notes issued by the Bank when due; (iii)
the entry by a court having jurisdiction in the premises of (a) a decree or
order for relief in respect of the Bank in an involuntary case or proceeding
under any applicable United States federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency,
reorganization or other similar law or (b) a decree or order appointing a
conservator, receiver, liquidator, assignee, trustee, sequestrator or any other
similar official of the Bank, or of substantially all of the property of the
Bank, or ordering the winding up or liquidation of the affairs of the Bank, and
the continuance of any such decree or order for relief or any such other decree
or order unstayed and in effect for a period of 60 consecutive days; or (iv)
the commencement by the Bank of a voluntary case or proceeding under any
applicable United States





                                     A-2-22
<PAGE>   163

federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other similar law or
of any other case or proceeding to be adjudicated as bankrupt or insolvent, or
the consent by the Bank to the entry of a decree or order for relief in an
involuntary case or proceeding under any applicable United States federal or
state bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other similar law or to the
commencement of any bankruptcy or insolvency case or proceeding, or the filing
by the Bank of a petition or answer or consent seeking reorganization or relief
under any applicable United States federal or state bankruptcy, insolvency,
reorganization or similar law, or the consent by the Bank to the filing of such
petition or to the appointment of or taking possession by a custodian,
conservator, receiver, liquidator, assignee, trustee, sequestrator or similar
official of the Bank or of substantially all of the property of the Bank, or
the making by the Bank of an assignment for the benefit of creditors, or the
taking of corporate action by the Bank in furtherance of any such action.  If
an Event of Default shall occur and be continuing, the holder of this Note may
declare the principal amount of, accrued interest and premium, if any, on this
Note due and payable immediately by written notice to the Bank.  Upon such
declaration and notice, such principal amount, accrued interest and premium, if
any, shall become immediately due and payable.  Any Event of Default with
respect to this Note may be waived by the holder hereof.

         The Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement provides that the Bank will
promptly notify, and provide copies of any such notice to, the Issuing and
Paying Agent, and the Issuing and Paying Agent will promptly mail by
first-class mail, postage prepaid, copies of such notice to the holders of the
Notes, upon the occurrence of an Event of Default or of the curing or waiver of
an Event of Default.

         Nothing contained herein shall prevent any consolidation or merger of
the Bank with any other corporation or successive consolidations or mergers in
which the Bank or its successor or successors shall be a party or parties, or
shall prevent any sale, conveyance, transfer or lease of the property of the
Bank as an entirety or substantially as an entirety to any other corporation
authorized to acquire and operate the same; provided, however (and the Bank
hereby covenants and agrees) that any such consolidation, merger, sale or
conveyance shall be upon the condition that: (i) immediately after such
consolidation, merger, sale or conveyance





                                     A-2-23
<PAGE>   164

the corporation (whether the Bank or such other corporation) formed by or
surviving any such consolidation or merger, or the corporation to which such
sale or conveyance shall have been made, shall not be in default in the
performance or observance of any of the terms, covenants and conditions of the
Notes to be observed or performed by the Bank; and (ii) the corporation (if
other than the Bank) formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger,
or the corporation to which such sale or conveyance shall have been made, shall
be organized under the laws of the United States of America, any state thereof,
the District of Columbia or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and shall expressly
assume the due and punctual payment of the principal of, premium, if any, and
interest on this Note.  In case of any such consolidation, merger, sale,
conveyance, transfer or lease, and upon the assumption by the successor
corporation of the due and punctual performance of all of the covenants in the
Notes to be performed or observed by the Bank, such successor corporation shall
succeed to and be substituted for the Bank with the same effect as if it had
been named in this Note as the Bank and thereafter the predecessor corporation
shall be relieved of all obligations and covenants in this Note and may be
liquidated and dissolved.

         Any action by the holder of this Note shall bind all future holders of
this Note, and of any Note issued in exchange or substitution herefor or in
place hereof, in respect of anything done or permitted by the Bank or by the
Issuing and Paying Agent in pursuance of such action.

         The Issuing and Paying Agent shall maintain at its offices a register
(the register maintained in such office or any other office or agency of the
Issuing and Paying Agent in The City of New York herein referred to as the
"Note Register") in which, subject to such reasonable regulations as it may
prescribe, the Issuing and Paying Agent shall provide for the registration of
the Notes and of transfers of the Notes.

         The transfer of this Note is registrable in the Note Register, upon
surrender of this Note for registration of transfer at the office or agency of
the Issuing and Paying Agent in the Place of Payment, duly endorsed by, or
accompanied by a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the
Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent duly executed by, the holder hereof or
his attorney





                                     A-2-24
<PAGE>   165

duly authorized in writing, and thereupon one or more new Notes of like tenor,
of authorized denominations and for the same aggregate principal amount, will
be issued to the designated transferee or transferees.

         No provision of this Note shall alter or impair the obligation of the
Bank, which is absolute and unconditional, to pay principal of, premium, if
any, and interest on this Note in U.S. dollars at the times, places and rate
herein prescribed in accordance with its terms.

         No service charge shall be made to a holder of this Note for any
transfer or exchange of this Note, but the Bank may require payment of a sum
sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in
connection therewith.

          Beneficial interests represented by this Note are exchangeable for
definitive Notes in registered form, of like tenor and of an equal aggregate
principal amount, only if (x) The Depository Trust Company, as Depositary (the
"Depositary") notifies the Bank that it is unwilling or unable to continue as
Depositary for this Note or if at any time the Depositary ceases to be a
clearing agency registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended, and a successor depositary is not appointed by the Bank within 60
calendar days, or (y) the Bank in its sole discretion determines not to have
such beneficial interests represented by this Note.  Any Note representing such
beneficial interests that is exchangeable pursuant to the preceding sentence
shall be exchangeable in whole for definitive Notes in registered form, of like
tenor and of an equal aggregate principal amount, in minimum denominations of
$250,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.  Such definitive
Notes shall be registered in the name or names of such person or persons as the
Depositary shall instruct the Issuing and Paying Agent.

         Prior to due presentment of this Note for registration of transfer,
the Bank, the Issuing and Paying Agent or any agent of the Bank or the Issuing
and Paying Agent may treat the holder in whose name this Note is registered as
the owner hereof for all purposes, whether or not this Note be overdue, and
neither the Bank, the Issuing and Paying Agent nor any such agent shall be





                                     A-2-25
<PAGE>   166

affected by notice to the contrary except as required by applicable law.

         All notices to the Bank under this Note shall be in writing and
addressed to the Bank at 209 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Suite 913, Hato Rey, Puerto
Rico 00918, Attention: Richard Barrios, or to such other address of the Bank as
the Bank may notify the holders of the Notes.

         This Note shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the
laws of the State of New York, without regard to conflicts of laws principles
and all applicable federal laws and regulations.





                                     A-2-26
<PAGE>   167

                                 ABBREVIATIONS

         The following abbreviations, when used in the inscription on the face
of the within Note, shall be construed as though they were written out in full
according to applicable laws or regulations.

                 TEN COM - as tenants in common

                 TEN ENT - as tenants by the entireties

                 JT TEN -  as joint tenants with right of
                           survivorship and not as tenants
                           in common

                 UNIF GIFT MIN ACT -            Custodian          
                                     ----------           ---------           
                                     (Cust)                 (Minor)
                                     under Uniform Gifts to Minors Act


                                     __________________________________
                                                 (State)

                 Additional abbreviations may also be used
                          though not in the above list.





                                     A-2-27
<PAGE>   168

                                   ASSIGNMENT


                 FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned hereby

sell(s), assign(s) and transfer(s) unto                          
                                        _________________________

_________________________________________________________________

PLEASE INSERT SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR OTHER IDENTIFYING NUMBER OF ASSIGNEE

                         ____________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________
                (Please print or typewrite name and address,
                   including postal zip code, of assignee)


the within Note and all rights thereunder, and hereby

irrevocably constitutes and appoints                             
                                    _____________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________
to transfer said Note on the books of the Issuing and Paying

Agent, with full power of substitution in the premises.


Dated:__________________          ___________________________________
                                  NOTICE:  The signature to this assignment 
                                  must correspond with the name as written 
                                  upon the face of the within Note in every 
                                  particular, without alteration or enlargement
                                  or any change whatsoever.





________________________________
     Signature Guarantee





                                     A-2-28
<PAGE>   169

                           OPTION TO ELECT REPAYMENT

         The undersigned hereby irrevocably request(s) and instruct(s) the Bank
to repay this Note (or portion hereof specified below) pursuant to its terms at
a price equal to 100% of the principal amount hereof to be repaid, together
with accrued and unpaid interest hereon, payable to the date of repayment, to
the undersigned, at ___________________________________________________________.
                 (Please print or typewrite name and address of the undersigned)

         For this Note to be repaid, the undersigned must give to the Issuing
and Paying Agent at its offices located at 450 West 33rd Street, New York, New
York 10001, Attention: Agency Administration, or at such other place or places
of which the Bank shall from time to time notify the holders of the Notes, not
more than 60 nor less than 30 calendar days prior to the date of repayment,
with this "Option to Elect Repayment" form duly completed.

         If less than the entire principal amount of this Note is to be repaid,
specify the portion hereof (which shall be increments of $1,000) which the
holder elects to have repaid and specify the denomination or denominations
(which shall be $250,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof)
of the Notes to be issued to the holder for the portion of this Note not being
repaid (in the absence of any such specification, one such Note will be issued
for the portion not being repaid):


$______________________________   ______________________________
                                  NOTICE:  The signature on this
Dated: ________________________   "Option to Elect Repayment" form must 
                                  correspond with the name as written upon the
                                  face of the within Note in every particular, 
                                  without alteration or enlargement or any
                                  change whatsoever.






________________________________
     Signature Guarantee




                                     A-2-29
<PAGE>   170

                                                            EXHIBIT 10.13 CONT.


                         INTEREST CALCULATION AGREEMENT


                                    Between


                          BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO


                                      and


                            THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK


         THIS AGREEMENT is made as of September 24, 1996 between Banco Popular
de Puerto Rico, a banking association chartered under the laws of the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (the "Bank") and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as the
interest calculation agent (the "Calculation Agent," which term shall include
any successor thereto).

         WHEREAS, the Bank proposes to issue and sell on a continuous basis
floating rate bank notes ("Floating Rate Notes") and fixed rate bank notes
("Fixed Rate Notes") (the Fixed Rate Notes and Floating Rate Notes are
collectively referred to herein as the "Notes") pursuant to the terms and
conditions of a Distribution Agreement, dated September 24, 1996 (the
"Distribution Agreement"), by and among the Bank and the agents named therein
(the "Agents," such term to include any additional agent that may be appointed
by the Bank and described in a written notice to the Agents, the Issuing and
Paying Agent (as defined below) and the Calculation Agent) up to such aggregate
principal amount as may from time to time be authorized by the Bank to be at
any time outstanding;

         WHEREAS, the Bank desires to appoint The Chase Manhattan Bank as
Calculation Agent and The Chase Manhattan Bank desires to accept such
appointment, pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth herein; and

         WHEREAS, the Bank is entitled to the benefits of the Issuing and
Paying Agency Agreement dated as of September 24, 1996 (the "Issuing and Paying
Agency Agreement"), between the Bank and The
<PAGE>   171

Chase Manhattan Bank as Issuing and Paying Agent (the "Issuing and Paying
Agent");

         NOW IT IS HEREBY AGREED THAT:

         SECTION 1. Appointment of Calculation Agent.  The Bank hereby appoints
The Chase Manhattan Bank as calculation agent with respect to any Floating Rate
Notes to be issued by the Bank under the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement.
The Calculation Agent hereby accepts its appointment as an independent party
for the purposes of calculating the interest rate of, and the amount of
interest payable on, the Floating Rate Notes, for each interest accrual period,
upon the terms and conditions set forth herein.  The calculation of the
interest rate bases for the interest rates applicable to a Floating Rate Note
shall be determined by reference to such interest rate basis or bases specified
in the form of each Floating Rate Note supplied to the Calculation Agent.

         SECTION 2. Calculation of Interest Rate Bases.  (a)  The Calculation
Agent shall calculate the interest rate of, and the amount of interest payable
on, the Floating Rate Notes for each interest accrual period and shall
communicate the same to the Bank and the Issuing and Paying Agent upon the
terms and conditions contained herein.  The Bank shall cause the Issuing and
Paying Agent to provide the Calculation Agent with not less than two (2) but
not more than seven (7) Business Days' notice of the Interest Determination
Date (as defined in the applicable Floating Rate Note) with respect to which a
particular Floating Rate Note calculation is to be made by the Calculation
Agent, and the Calculation Agent shall notify the Issuing and Paying Agent of
such Floating Rate Note calculation on or before the applicable Calculation
Date (as defined in the Floating Rate Note) and shall confirm such calculation
in writing within twenty-four (24) hours after so notifying the Issuing and
Paying Agent.

         (b)     In no event shall the interest rate on the Floating Rate Notes
be less than the Minimum Interest Rate, if any, or higher than the Maximum
Interest Rate, if any, designated in the applicable Floating Rate Note and
related pricing supplement (each, a "Pricing Supplement"), and in no event
shall the interest rate on the Floating Rate Notes be higher than the maximum
rate permitted by applicable law.





                                       2
<PAGE>   172

         (c)     The Calculation Agent shall calculate the amount of interest
payable on each Floating Rate Note in the manner and at the times set forth in
each such Floating Rate Note.

         (d)     The Calculation Agent will, upon the request of any holder of
a Floating Rate Note, provide the interest rate then in effect, and the
interest rate which will become effective as a result of a determination made
on the most recent Interest Determination Date with respect to such Floating
Rate Note.

         SECTION 3. Status of Calculation Agent.  Any acts taken by the
Calculation Agent under this Agreement or in connection with any Floating Rate
Notes, including, specifically, but without limitation, the calculation of any
interest rate for a Floating Rate Note, shall be deemed to have been taken by
the Calculation Agent solely in its capacity as an agent acting on behalf of
the Bank and shall not create or imply any obligation to, or any trust or
agency relationship with, any of the owners or holders of the Floating Rate
Notes.

         SECTION 4. Fees and Expenses.  The Calculation Agent shall be entitled
to such compensation for its services under this Agreement as may be agreed
upon with the Bank, and the Bank shall pay such compensation and shall
reimburse the Calculation Agent for all reasonable expenses, disbursements and
advances (including reasonable legal fees and expenses) incurred or made by the
Calculation Agent pursuant to the services rendered by it under this Agreement
upon receipt of such invoices as the Bank may reasonably require.

         SECTION 5. Rights and Liabilities of the Calculation Agent.  From time
to time, the Bank will furnish the Calculation Agent with a written list of the
names of officers of the Bank authorized to give instructions and notices on
behalf of the Bank hereunder (each, an "Instructing Representative").  The
Calculation Agent shall be protected and shall incur no liability for, or in
respect of, any action taken or omitted to be taken, or suffered by it in
reliance upon any Floating Rate Note or written instruction, notice, request,
direction, order, certificate, consent, report, affidavit, statement or other
paper, document or communication reasonably believed by it in good faith to be
genuine and to have been approved or signed by the proper party or parties.
Any instruction, notice, request, direction, order, certificate, consent,
report, affidavit, statement or other paper, document or





                                       3
<PAGE>   173

communication from the Bank or given by it and sent, delivered or directed to
the Calculation Agent under, pursuant to, or as permitted by, any provision of
this Agreement shall be sufficient for purposes of this Agreement if such
instruction, notice, request, direction, order, certificate, consent, report,
affidavit, statement, or other paper, document, communication or comment is in
writing and signed by an Instructing Representative.  The Calculation Agent may
conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements expressed therein, upon
any order, written instruction, notice, request, direction, certificate,
consent, report, affidavit, statement, or other paper, document or
communication, reasonably believed by it in good faith to be genuine, from the
Bank or given by it and sent, delivered or directed to the Calculation Agent
and conforming to the requirements of this Agreement, and the Calculation Agent
shall be protected in acting upon any such order, written instruction, notice,
request, direction, certificate, consent, report, affidavit, statement, or
other paper, document or communication.  The Calculation Agent may consult with
counsel satisfactory to it and the advice of such counsel or any opinion of
counsel shall constitute full and complete authorization and protection of the
Calculation Agent with respect to any action taken, omitted to be taken, or
suffered by it hereunder in good faith and in accordance with and in reliance
upon the advice of such counsel.  The Calculation Agent shall not be liable for
any error resulting from the use of or reliance on a source or publication
required to be used by any Floating Rate Note, this Agreement or any other
document.  Neither the Calculation Agent nor its officers, directors,
employees, agents or attorneys shall be liable to the Bank or any other party
for any act or omission hereunder, or for any error of judgment made in good
faith by it or them except in the case of gross negligence or willful
misconduct.  No party shall be liable for any default resulting from force
majeure, which shall be deemed to include any circumstances beyond the
reasonable control of the party affected.

         SECTION 6. Duties of Calculation Agent.  The Calculation Agent shall
be obligated only to perform such duties as are specifically set forth herein
and no other duties or obligations on the part of the Calculation Agent, in its
capacity as such, shall be implied by this Agreement.

         SECTION 7. Termination, Resignation or Removal of the Calculation
Agent.  The Calculation Agent may at any time terminate this Agreement by
giving written notice to the Bank and the Issuing and





                                       4
<PAGE>   174

Paying Agent specifying the date on which the desired resignation shall become
effective (the "Effective Date"); provided that such notice shall be given not
less than ninety (90) days prior to the Effective Date unless the Bank
otherwise agrees in writing.  The Bank may terminate this Agreement at any time
by giving written notice to the Calculation Agent and specifying the Effective
Date of such termination.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, no termination by
either the Calculation Agent or the Bank shall become effective prior to the
date of the appointment of a successor Calculation Agent and the acceptance of
such appointment by such successor Calculation Agent as provided in Section 8
hereof.  Upon termination by either party pursuant to the provisions of this
Section, the Calculation Agent shall be entitled to the payment of any
compensation owed to it by the Bank hereunder and to the reimbursement of all
reasonable expenses incurred in connection with the services rendered by it
hereunder, as provided by Section 4 hereof.  The provisions of Sections 5, 9
and 13 hereof shall remain in full force and effect following termination by
either party.

         SECTION 8. Appointment of Successor Calculation Agent.  In the event
of the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Section 7 hereof, the Bank
shall promptly appoint a successor Calculation Agent whose appointment shall
become effective as of the Effective Date.  Any successor Calculation Agent
appointed by the Bank and approved by the Issuing and Paying Agent following
termination of this Agreement pursuant to the provisions of Section 7 hereof,
shall execute and deliver to the original Calculation Agent, the Bank and the
Issuing and Paying Agent an instrument accepting such appointment.  Thereupon,
such successor Calculation Agent shall, without any further act, deed or
conveyance, become vested with all the authority, rights, powers, trusts,
immunities, duties and obligations of the Calculation Agent and with like
effect as if originally named as Calculation Agent hereunder, and the original
Calculation Agent shall thereupon be obligated to transfer and deliver such
relevant records or copies thereof maintained by the Calculation Agent in
connection with the performance of its obligations hereunder.  Upon the
appointment of a successor Calculation Agent and acceptance by it of such
appointment the Calculation Agent so superseded shall cease to be such
Calculation Agent hereunder.  In the event of termination of this Agreement by
the Calculation Agent or the Bank pursuant to Section 7 hereof, if a successor
Calculation Agent has not been appointed by the Bank by the Effective Date of
such termination, the Calculation Agent may, at the expense of the Bank,
petition any





                                       5
<PAGE>   175

court of competent jurisdiction for appointment of a successor Calculation
Agent.  Any successor Calculation Agent so appointed by such court shall
immediately and without further act be superseded by any successor Calculation
Agent appointed as provided above within one year from the date of the
appointment by such court.

         SECTION 9. Indemnification.  The Bank shall indemnify and hold
harmless the Calculation Agent, its officers, directors, agents or attorneys
and employees from and against all actions, claims, damages, liabilities,
losses and expenses (including reasonable legal and other professional fees and
expenses) relating to or arising out of actions or omissions in any capacity
hereunder, except actions, claims, damages, liabilities, losses and expenses
caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Calculation Agent,
its officers, directors or employees.  The Calculation Agent shall incur no
liability and shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Bank for any error
resulting from use of or reliance on a source of publication required to be
used by the Floating Rate Notes or this Agreement.  The Calculation Agent shall
incur no liability and shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Bank for,
or in respect of, any actions taken, omitted to be taken or suffered to be
taken in good faith by the Calculation Agent in reliance upon (i) an opinion or
advice of counsel, or (ii) a written instruction from the Bank.  The provisions
of this Section shall survive the termination of this Agreement.

         SECTION 10.  Merger, Consolidation or Sale of Business by the
Calculation Agent.  Any corporation into which the Calculation Agent may be
merged or consolidated, or any corporation resulting from any merger or
consolidation to which the Calculation Agent may be a party, or any corporation
to which the Calculation Agent may sell or otherwise transfer all or
substantially all of its assets and business and which assumes the obligations
of the Calculation Agent hereunder, shall, to the extent permitted by
applicable law, become the Calculation Agent under this Agreement without the
execution or filing of any paper or any further act by the parties hereto.
Notice in writing of any such merger, consolidation or sale shall be given by
the Calculation Agent to the Bank and to the Issuing and Paying Agent prior to
or upon the effectiveness of such merger, consolidation or sale.

         SECTION 11.  Notices.  Any notice or other communication required to
be given hereunder shall be delivered in person, sent by letter or by telecopy
to the addresses given below or such other





                                       6
<PAGE>   176

address as a party hereto may have subsequently specified in writing:

                 If to the Bank:

                          Banco Popular de Puerto Rico
                          209 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Suite 913
                          Hato Rey, Puerto Rico  00918
                          Attention:  Richard Barrios
                          Telecopy:   (787) 754-9290

         If to the Calculation Agent or the Issuing and Paying Agent:

                          The Chase Manhattan Bank
                          450 West 33rd Street
                          New York, New York 10001
                          Attention:  Agency Administration
                          Telecopy:   (212) 946-7682

         Any notice hereunder given by letter or telecopy shall be deemed to
have been received when it would have been received in the ordinary course of
post or transmission, as the case may be.

         SECTION 12.  Benefit of Agreement.  Except as provided herein, this
Agreement is solely for the benefit of the parties hereto and their successors
and assigns and no other person shall acquire or have any rights under or by
virtue hereof.  The terms "successors" and "assigns" shall not include any
purchaser of any Floating Rate Notes by reason merely of such purchase.

         SECTION 13.  Governing Law.  This Agreement is to be delivered and
performed in, and shall be construed and enforced in accordance with, and the
rights of the parties shall be governed by, the laws of the State of New York
applicable to agreements to be entered into and to be performed in such state
without regard to conflicts of laws principles.

         SECTION 14.  Severability.  If any provision of this Agreement shall
be held or deemed to be or shall, in fact, be invalid, inoperative or
unenforceable as applied in any particular case in any or all jurisdictions
because it conflicts with any provision of any constitution, statute, rule or
public policy or for any other reason, such circumstances shall not have the
effect of rendering the provision in question invalid, inoperative or
unenforceable in





                                       7
<PAGE>   177

any other case, circumstances or jurisdiction, or of rendering any other
provision or provisions of this Agreement invalid, inoperative or
unenforceable, to any extent whatsoever.

         SECTION 15.  Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed by the
parties hereto in any number of counterparts, and by each of the parties hereto
in separate counterparts, each of such counterparts, when so executed and
delivered, shall be deemed to be an original, but all such counterparts shall
together constitute one and the same instrument.

         SECTION 16.  Amendments.  This Agreement may be amended from time to
time by any instrument in writing executed and delivered by each of the parties
hereto.

          SECTION 17. Amendment of the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement.
Anything in the Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement to the contrary
notwithstanding, any amendment or supplement thereto shall not become effective
with respect to this Agreement or the Calculation Agent in its capacity as such
unless and until the Calculation Agent shall have consented in writing to such
amendment or supplement.

         SECTION 18.  Amendments to Forms of Notes.  The Bank shall not,
without first obtaining the prior written consent of the Calculation Agent,
make any change to the Notes if such change would materially and adversely
affect the Calculation Agent's duties and obligations under this Agreement.

         SECTION 19.  Complete Agreement.  This Agreement embodies the entire
understanding between the parties hereto and supersedes all prior agreements
and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.

         SECTION 20.  Conflicts with Other Agreements.  In any conflict
relating to the rights or obligations of the Calculation Agent in connection
with calculation of interest on the Floating Rate Notes, the terms of this
Agreement shall govern such rights and obligations.

         SECTION 21.  Ownership of Securities.  The Calculation Agent, its
officers, employees and shareholders may become the  owners of or acquire any
interest in any Notes, with the same rights that it or they would have if it
were not the Calculation Agent, and may





                                       8
<PAGE>   178

engage or be interested in any financial or other transaction with the Bank as
freely as if it were not the Calculation Agent.

         SECTION 22.  Successors and Assigns.  All covenants and agreements
contained in this Agreement by or on behalf of any of the parties hereto shall
bind and inure to the benefit of the respective successors and assigns of the
parties hereto, whether so expressed or not; provided, however, this Section 22
shall not by itself authorize any delegation of duties by the Calculation Agent
or any assignment other than any assignment expressly permitted by the terms of
this Agreement.

         SECTION 23.  Definitions.  Capitalized terms used herein and not
otherwise defined shall have the respective meanings assigned to them in the
Issuing and Paying Agency Agreement.

         SECTION 24.  Pricing Supplements.  The Bank shall promptly deliver
copies of each Pricing Supplement to the Calculation Agent.





                                       9
<PAGE>   179

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been entered into the day and
year first above written.


                                     BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO
                                     

                                     By:
                                        ------------------------------
                                        Name:
                                        Title:


                                     By:
                                        ------------------------------
                                        Name:
                                        Title:
                                     
                                     
                                     THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK,
                                         as Calculation Agent
                                     
                                     
                                     By:
                                        -----------------------------------
                                        Name:
                                        Title:





                                       10

<PAGE>   1

                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.14
                            BanPonce Financial Corp.
                            (a Delaware Corporation)
        6.75% Medium-Term Fixed Rate Notes, Series C due August 9, 2001

        Unconditionally Guaranteed as to Payment of Principal, Premium,
                  if any, and Interest by BanPonce Corporation

                                TERMS AGREEMENT

                                    August 6, 1996

BanPonce Financial Corp.,
521 Fellowship Road,
Mt. Laurel, New Jersey  08045

BanPonce Corporation,
209 Munoz Rivera Avenue,
Hato Rey, Puerto Rico  00918

Ladies and Gentlemen:

         We understand that BanPonce Financial Corp., a Delaware corporation
(the "Company"), proposes to issue and sell $75,000,000 aggregate principal
amount of its 6.75% Medium-Term Fixed Rate Notes, Series C due August 9, 2001
(the "Notes"), unconditionally guaranteed as to payment of principal, premium
if any, and interest by BanPonce Corporation (the "Guarantees" and, together
with the Notes, the "Underwritten Securities") which are part of a series of
Medium-Term Notes of the Company.  subject to the terms and conditions set
forth herein or incorporated by reference herein, the underwriters named below
(the "Underwriters") offer to purchase as principals pursuant to Section 3(b)
of the Distribution Agreement, dated October 11, 1991, as amended on December
2, 1993 and on October 6, 1995 among the Company, BanPonce Corporation and the
Agents listed therein (the "Distribution Agreement") severally and not jointly,
the principal amount of Underwritten Securities set forth below opposite their
respective names at 99.06% of the principal amount thereof, together with
accured interest, if any, from August 9, 1996.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Principal
Underwriter                                                              Amount
- -----------                                                              ------
<S>                                                               <C>
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
                 Incorporated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $  52,500,000
CS First Boston Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    22,500,000
                                                                  -------------
         Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $  75,000,000
                                                                  =============
</TABLE>





                                                                               1
<PAGE>   2

                                                          EXHIBIT 10.14 (CONT.) 

The Underwritten Securities shall have the following terms:

<TABLE>
         <S>                      <C>
         Title of Security:       6.75% Medium-Term Fixed Rate Notes,
                                  Series C due August 9, 2001.

         Principal Amount
         to be issued:            $75,000,000

         Interest rate:                    6.75%

         Current ratings:         Moody's Investors Service, Inc. A3;
                                  Standard & Poor's Ratings Services BBB+

         Interest payable:        June 15 and December 15 of each year and at maturity (each, an 
                                  "Interest Payment Date"), commencing on December 15, 1996 to 
                                  the holder of record on the fifteenth calendar day (whether or not 
                                  a Business Day, as defined in the Prospectus Supplement, dated October                         
                                  6, 1995, relating to the Company's Medium-Term Notes, 
                                  Series C Due Nine Months or More From Date of Issue) immediately 
                                  preceding such Interest Payment Date.

         Started Maturity
         Date:                    August 9, 2001

         Purchase Price           99.06% ($74,295,000), plus accrued interest, if any, form August 
                                  9, 1996.

         Settlement Date,
         Time and Place:          August 9, 1996, at 10:00 am New York City time at the offices of 
                                  Brown & Wood, One World Trade Center, New York, NY  10048

         Redemption
         provisions:              None

         Repayment
         provisions:              None

         Specified
         Currency:                U.S. dollars

         Authorized
         Denominations:           $1,000 and integral multiples thereof
</TABLE>





                                                                               2
<PAGE>   3


                                                          EXHIBIT 10.14 (CONT.) 

         Additional/Other 
         Terms:           None


         Unless inconsistent with this Terms Agreement, all provisions
contained in the Distribution Agreement, which is attached hereto as Annex A,
are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety herein and shall be
deemed to be a part of this Terms Agreement to the same extent as if such
provisions had been set forth in full herein.  Capitalized terms not defined
herein shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Distribution Agreement.

         The following documents will be required on the Settlement Date:
Officer's Certificate pursuant to Section 7(b) of the Distribution Agreement;
and Legal Opinion pursuant to Section 7(c) of the Distribution Agreement.

                                        Very truly yours,

                                        MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH
                                                       INCORPORATED

                                        By:
                                           ------------------------------------
                                        Name: 
                                        Title:

                                        CS FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION

                                        By:
                                           ------------------------------------
                                        Name: 
                                        Title:

Accepted:

BANPONCE FINANCIAL CORP.

By:
   ----------------------------------------
Name:
Title:

BANPONCE CORPORATION

By: 
   ----------------------------------------
Name:
Title:





                                                                               3
<PAGE>   4

                                                          EXHIBIT 10.14 (CONT.) 

                                Cross-Receipt

         Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and CS First Boston
Corporation, as the underwriters (the "Underwriters") named in the Terms
Agreement, dated August 6, 1996 (the "Underwriting Agreement"), between
BanPonce Financial Corp. (the "Company"), a Delaware corporation, BanPonce
Corporation, a Puerto Rico corporation (the "Guarantor"), and the Underwriters,
hereby acknowledge receipt of $75,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the
Company's 6.75% Medium-Term Fixed Rate Notes, Series C due August 9, 2001 (the
"Notes"),  unconditionally guaranteed as to payment of principal, premium if
any, and interest by the Guarantor, in the denominations and registered in the
names requested.

         The Company hereby acknowledges from the Underwriters of a wire
transfer of immediately available funds in the aggregate amount of $74,295,000,
representing payment for the above-mentioned Notes at 99.06% of their principal
amount.

August 9, 1996
New York, New York

                                        MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH
                                                       INCORPORATED

                                        By:
                                            -----------------------------------
                                                Name: 
                                                Title:

                                                CS FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION

                                        By:
                                            -----------------------------------
                                                Name:  Michael Martin
                                                Title: Managing Director

                                                BANPONCE FINANCIAL CORP.

                                        By:
                                           ------------------------------------
                                                Name:  Jose Luis Lopez-Calderon 
                                                Title: Senior Vice President

                                                BANPONCE CORPORATION

                                        By:
                                           ------------------------------------
                                                Name:  Jose Luis Lopez-Calderon
                                                Title: Senior Vice President





                                                                               4
<PAGE>   5

                                                          EXHIBIT 10.14 (CONT.) 

                            BANPONCE CORPORATION
                       BANPONCE FINANCIAL CORPORATION

                            Officer's Certificate

         I, Jose Luis Lopez-Calderon, Senior Vice President of BanPonce
Financial Corp., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), and Senior Vice
President of BanPonce Corporation, a Puerto Rico corporation (the
"Corporation"), pursuant to the Terms Agreement, dated August 6, 1996, among
the Company, the Corporation, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated and CS First Boston Corporation, hereby certify that, to the best
of my knowledge, after reasonable investigation:

                 1.  The representations and warranties of the Company and the
         Corporation contained in Section 2 of the Distribution Agreement,
         dated October 11, 1991, as amended on December 2, 1993 and October 6,
         1995 and as supplemented on June 16, 1993 and August 1, 1994 (as so
         amended and supplemented, the "Distribution Agreement"), among the
         Company, the Corporation, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
         Incorporated, CS First Boston Corporation and First Chicago Capital
         Markets, Inc. are true and correct as of the date hereof with the same
         force and effect as though made at and as of this date;

                 2.  The Company and the Corporation have performed or complied
         with all agreements and satisfied all conditions on their respective
         parts to be performed or satisfied pursuant to the Distribution
         Agreement, as applicable, at or prior to the date hereof;

                                                           





                                                                               5
<PAGE>   6
                                                          EXHIBIT 10.14 (CONT.)

                 3.  No stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
         Registration Statement  on Form S-3 (No. 33-61601) of the Company,
         the Corporation and Popular International Bank, Inc. (the
         "Registration Statement") under the Securities Act of 1933 has been
         issued and no proceedings for that purpose have been initiated or
         threatened by the Securities and Exchange Commission; and

                 4.  Since the respective dates as of which information is
         given in each part of such Registration Statement and the prospectus
         contained therein, as supplemented by the prospectus supplement dated
         October 6, 1995 and the pricing supplement dated August 6, 1996 (as so
         supplemented, the "Prospectus"), there has been no material adverse
         change in the condition, financial or otherwise, or in the earnings
         business affairs or business prospects of the Company or the
         Corporation and its subsidiaries considered as one enterprise, whether
         or not arising in the ordinary course of business, other than as may
         have already been disclosed in the Registration Statement and the
         Prospectus. 

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto signed my name.

Dated: August 9, 1996
                                                  
                                                  -----------------------------
                                                  Jose Luis Lopez-Calderon 
                                                  Senior Vice President 
                                                  BanPonce Financial Corp.

                                        

                                                  -----------------------------
                                                  Jose Luis Lopez-Calderon 
                                                  Senior Vice President 
                                                  BanPonce Corporation





                                                                               6
<PAGE>   7

                                                           EXHIBIT 10.14 (CONT.)

                    Pricing Supplement, dated August 6, 1996
                   to Prospectus dated September 27, 1995 and
                  Prospectus Supplement dated October 6, 1995


                         BANPONCE FINANCIAL CORPORATION
                          MEDIUM-TERM NOTES, SERIES C
              DUE FROM NINE MONTHS TO 30 YEARS FROM DATE OF ISSUE
 Unconditionally  Guaranteed as to Payment of Principal, Premium, if any, and
                                  Interest by
                              BANPONCE CORPORATION



<TABLE>
<S>                                                        <C>
PRINCIPAL AMOUNT  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  U.S.  $75,000,000.00

ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  August 9, 1996

MATURITY DATE  . .  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  August 9, 2001

GLOBAL SECURITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  Yes

INTEREST RATE PER ANNUM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  6.75%

INTEREST RATE BASIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  Fixed

INTEREST PAYMENT DATES  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  June 15 and December 15 of each
                                                           year and at Maturity, commencing on
                                                           December 15, 1996.
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    Price to    Underwriting   Proceeds
                                                    Public (1)  Discount (2)   to Company (1)(3)
                                                    ----------  ------------   -----------------
<S>                                               <C>           <C>            <C>
Per Note  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       99.56%      0.50%            99.06%
Total     . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $74,670,000   $375,000       $74,295,000
- ---------  
</TABLE>

(1)  Plus accrued interest form August 9, 1996, if any.
(2)  The Company has agreed to indemnify the Underwriters against certain
             liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of
             1933.
(3)  Before deducting expenses payable by the Company.


                                -------------

         The Notes offered hereby are offered by the several Underwriters, as
specified herein, subject to receipt and acceptance by them and subject to
their right to reject any order in whole or in part.  It is expected that the
Notes will be ready for delivery in New York, New  York on or about August 9,
1996, against payment therefor in immediately available funds.

MERRILL LYNCH & CO.                                              CS FIRST BOSTON





                                                                               7
<PAGE>   8


                                                           EXHIBIT 10.14 (CONT.)

                              RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

         The U.S. Congress has approved legislation (the "Legislation") that
would, among other things, repeal Section 936 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code
("Section 936").  The Legislation has not yet been signed into law by the
President of the United States.  In general terms, Section 936 provides U.S.
corporations operating in Puerto Rico ("936 Corporations") with a tax credit
against U. S. federal tax liability on income derived from business operations
and certain investments in Puerto Rico.  The Legislation phases out the Section
936 tax credit for income derived from Puerto Rican business operations of a
936 Corporation over a 10-year period.  The Legislation would repeal,
retroactively as of July 1, 1996, the credit against U.S. federal tax liability
for investments made by 936 Corporations in Puerto Rico ("936 Funds").  This
credit has created a local money market (the "936 funds market") whose cost is
usually below that of the U.S. mainland or the Eurodollar market.  The volume
of the 936 funds market could be reduced substantially during BanPonce
Corporation's (the "Corporation") current fiscal year, if the Legislation
becomes law.  As of June 30, 1996, the Corporation was a recipient of and had a
balance of $2.9 billion in 936 Funds. representing 19.15% of the Corporation's
total liabilities.  Management believes that the main impact of the
Legislation, if signed into law, would be a moderate net increase in the
Corporation's cost of funds.  The anticipated rise in the cost of funds is
expected to be partially offset by a decrease in the cost of complying with
various investment requirements mandated by local regulations that are
applicable to all recipients of 936 Funds.  The repeal of Section 936 could
have an adverse effect on the general economic condition of Puerto Rico, the
Corporation's predominant service area.

                                USE OF PROCEEDS

         The proceeds from the issuance of the Notes to which this Pricing
Supplement relates will be used to finance the Corporation's subsidiaries.

                  CERTAIN ADDITIONAL FEDERAL TAX CONSEQUENCES

         Recently proposed U.S. Treasury regulations (the "Proposed
Regulations") would establish alternative methods for providing the
certification that is required, as described in the Prospectus Supplement under
the caption "United States Taxation--United States Alien Holders", for payments
on the Notes to be free from United States withholding tax, information
reporting requirements and backup withholding tax.  The Proposed Regulations
also would require, in the case of Notes held by foreign partnerships, that (x)
the certification described above be provided by the partners rather than by
the foreign partnership and (y) the partnership provide certain information,
including a United States taxpayer identification number.  A look-through rule
would apply in the case of certain tiered partnerships.  The Proposed
Regulations are proposed to be effective for payments made after December 31,
1997.  There can be no assurance that the Proposed Regulations will be adopted
or as to the provisions that they will include if and when adopted in temporary
or final form.





                                                                               8
<PAGE>   9


                                                           EXHIBIT 10.14 (CONT.)

                                  UNDERWRITING

         Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in a terms agreement
(the "Terms Agreement") among BanPonce Financial Corporation (the "Company"),
the Corporation and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and CS
First Boston Corporation (the "Underwriters"), the Company has agreed to sell
to the Underwriters, and the Underwriters have severally agreed to purchase the
respective principal amount of Notes set forth after their names below.  The
Terms Agreement provides that the obligations of the Underwriters are subject
to certain conditions precedent and that the Underwriters will be obligated to
purchase all of the Notes if any are purchased.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              Principal 
                        Underwriter                              Amount
                        -----------                              ------
         <S>                                                  <C>
         Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
                        Incorporated . . . . . . . . . . .    $52,500,000

         CS First Boston Corporation . . . . . . . . . . .     22,500,000

                        Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $75,000,000
</TABLE>

         The Underwriters have advised the Company that they propose initially
to offer the Notes to the public at the public offering price set forth on the
cover page of this Pricing Supplement, and to certain dealers at such price
less a concession not in excess of .3% of the principal amount.  The
Underwriters may allow, and such dealers may reallow, a discount not in excess
of .25% of the principal amount of the Notes to certain other dealers.  After
the initial public offering, the public offering price, concession and discount
may be changed.

         The Company has agreed to indemnify the several Underwriters against
certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933.

         The Underwriters and certain of their affiliates and associates are
customers of, including borrowers from, engage in transactions with, and/or
perform services for, the Corporation and its subsidiaries, in the ordinary
course of business.  Also, in the ordinary course of their respective
businesses, affiliates of the Underwriters engage, and may in the future
engage, in commercial banking and investment banking transactions with the
Corporation and its subsidiaries.  The Underwriters have performed investment
banking services for the Corporation in the last two years and have received
fees in connection therewith.





                                                                               9
<PAGE>   10

                                                          EXHIBIT 10.14 (CONT.) 
August 9, 1996



Merrill Lynch & Co.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner
   & Smith Incorporated
World Financial Center
North Tower, 23rd Floor
New York, NY  10281

CS First Boston Corporation
55 East 52nd Street
New York, NY  10055

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen:

         In connection with the several purchases today by you pursuant to the
Terms Agreement, dated August 6, 1996, among BanPonce Financial Corp., a
Delaware corporation (the "Company"), BanPonce Corporation, a Puerto Rico
corporation (the "Guarantor"), and you, of $75,000,000 principal amount of the
Company's Medium-Term Notes, Series C, endorsed with the guarantees of the
Guarantor, to be issued pursuant to the Indenture, dated as of October 1, 1991,
as supplemented by the First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 28,
1995, among the Company, the Guarantor and The First National Bank of Chicago,
as successor trustee to Citibank, N.A., I, as Counsel to the Company and the
Guarantor, refer to my opinion of October 6, 1995, addressed to you and to
First Chicago Capital Markets, Inc. (the "Opinion Letter"), relating to an
offering, at an aggregate initial offering price not to exceed $1,000,000,000,
of the Company's Medium-Term Notes, Series C, endorsed with the guarantees of
the Guarantor.  Capitalized terms not defined herein shall have the meanings
assigned to them in the Opinion Letter.

         I reaffirm as of the date hereof (and as though made on the date
hereof) all of the opinions made in the Opinion Letter except that, for
purposes of this opinion letter, (i) all references to the Registration
Statement shall be deemed to be a reference to each part of the Registration
statement filed with the Commission through the date hereof, as of the date
such part became effective, and (ii) all references to the Basic Prospectus
shall be deemed to be a reference to the Basic Prospectus as the same has been
amended and supplemented by the Prospectus Supplement and the pricing
supplement, dated August 6, 1996 (the "Pricing Supplement"), as of the date of
the Pricing Supplement.


Very truly yours,

Brunilda Santos de Alvarez
Legal Counsel





                                                                              10


<PAGE>   1
                                                                  EXHIBIT 12.0  
               
  
                             BANPONCE CORPORATION
               COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
                         AND PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS
                            (Dollars in thousands)
                                       
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION> 
                                                        ---------- Year Ended December 31, ------------
                                                          1996     1995     1994      1993       1992               
<S>                                                     <C>      <C>      <C>        <C>         <C>  
Income before income taxes                               256,028  206,130  175,177    132,140    100,145            
                                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                    
Fixed charges :                                                                                                     
                                                                                                                    
  Interest expense                                       591,540  521,624  351,633    280,008    300,135            
  Estimated interest component                                                                                      
    of net rental payments                                 7,065    6,012    5,568      4,827      4,691            
                                                                                                                    
  Total fixed charges including                                                                                     
    interest on deposits                                 598,605  527,636  357,201    284,835    304,826            
                                                                                                                    
  Less: Interest on deposits                             350,221  329,783  247,726    219,447    253,375            
                                                                                                                    
  Total fixed charges excluding                                                                                     
    interest on deposits                                 248,384  197,853  109,475     65,388     51,451            
                                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                    
Income before income taxes and                                                                                      
  fixed charges(including interest                                                                                  
  on deposits)                                          $854,633 $733,766 $532,378   $416,975   $404,971            
                                                                                                                    
Income before income taxes and                                                                                      
  fixed charges(excluding interest                                                                                  
  on deposits)                                          $504,412 $403,983 $284,652   $197,528   $151,596            
                                                                                                                    
Preferred stock dividends                                  8,350    8,350 $  4,630   $    770   $    770            
                                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                    
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges                                                                                  
                                                                                                                    
  Including Interest on Deposits                             1.4      1.4      1.5        1.5        1.3            
                                                                                                                    
  Excluding Interest on Deposits                             2.0      2.0      2.6        3.0        2.9            

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges & Preferred 
  Stock Dividends

  Including Interest on Deposits                             1.4      1.4      1.5        1.5        1.3

  Excluding Interest on Deposits                             2.0      2.0      2.5        3.0        2.9
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   1
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

                             Washington, D.C. 20549

                                    FORM 10-K

 X              ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
- ---            THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 [NO FEE REQUIRED,
                          EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 7, 1996]
                           
                   For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1996
                                       OR
              TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
- ---           THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED)

                           Commission File No. 0-13818

                              BANPONCE CORPORATION
                              --------------------

                 Incorporated in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico

                   IRS Employer Identification No. 66-0416582

                          Principal Executive Offices:
                          ----------------------------
                            209 Munoz Rivera Avenue
                          Hato Rey, Puerto Rico 00918
                        Telephone Number: (787) 765-9800

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT: NONE
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:

                         Common Stock ($6.00 par value)

              8.35% Non-Cumulative Monthly Income Preferred Stock,
             1994 Series A (Liquidation Preference $25.00 Per Share)

       Series A Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock Purchase Rights

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  X  No    .
                                       ---    ---

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. [ ]

             ------------------------------------------------------

As of February 28, 1997 the Corporation had 66,121,855 shares of common stock
outstanding. The aggregate market value of the common stock held by
non-affiliates of the Corporation was $2,380,387,000 based upon the reported
closing price of $36.00 on the NASDAQ National Market System on that date.

                      DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
                      -----------------------------------
                        
         (1) Portions of the Corporation's Annual Report to Shareholders for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 are incorporated herein by reference in
response to Item 1 of Part I.

         (2) Portions of the Corporation's Proxy Statement relating to the 1997
Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Corporation are incorporated herein by
reference to Items 10 through 13 of Part III.

                                                                               1
<PAGE>   2
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            Page
                                                                            ----
<S>         <C>                                                             <C>
PART I
- ------

Item 1      Business....................................................     3
Item 2      Properties..................................................    10
Item 3      Legal Proceedings...........................................    11
Item 4      Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.........    11

PART II
- -------

Item 5      Market for Registrant's Common Stock and Related
              Stockholder Matters.......................................    11
Item 6      Selected Financial Data.....................................    12
Item 7      Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
              Condition and Results of Operations.......................    12
Item 8      Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.................    13
Item 9      Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
              Accounting and Financial Disclosure.......................    13
PART III
- --------

Item 10     Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant..........    13
Item 11     Executive Compensation......................................    13
Item 12     Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
              and Management............................................    13
Item 13     Certain Relationships and Related Transactions..............    13


PART IV
- -------

Item 14     Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and
              Reports on Form 8-K.......................................    14
</TABLE>

2
<PAGE>   3
                                     PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

         BANPONCE CORPORATION (the "Corporation") is a diversified, publicly
owned bank holding company, incorporated under the General Corporation Law of
Puerto Rico in November 1984. It provides a wide variety of financial services
through its principal subsidiaries: Banco Popular de Puerto Rico ("Banco
Popular" or the "Bank"), BP Capital Markets, Inc. ("BP Capital") and Popular
International Bank, Inc. ("PIB"). The Corporation is subject to the provisions
of the U.S. Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 (the "BHC Act") and, accordingly,
subject to the supervision and regulation of the Board of Governors of the
Federal Reserve System (the "Federal Reserve Board"). Banco Popular, the
Corporation's principal banking subsidiary, was incorporated over 100 years ago
in 1893 and is Puerto Rico's largest bank with total assets of $14.0 billion,
deposits of $10.1 billion and stockholder's equity of $1.0 billion at December
31, 1996. The Bank accounted for 84% of the total consolidated assets of the
Corporation at December 31, 1996. The Bank is a full-service commercial bank,
and Puerto Rico's largest banking institution with a delivery system of 178
branches and 327 automated teller machines on the island. The Bank also has the
largest trust operation in Puerto Rico and is the largest servicer of mortgage
loans for investors. In addition, it operates the largest Hispanic bank branch
network in the mainland United States with 29 branches in New York and an agency
in Chicago. As of December 31, 1996, these branches had a total of approximately
$1.5 billion in deposits. The Bank also operates seven branches in the U.S.
Virgin Islands and one branch in the British Virgin Islands. The Bank is a
member of the Federal Reserve System and is also subject to the supervision of
the Office of the Commissioner of Financial Institutions of the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico and the Superintendent of Banks of the State of New York. Banco
Popular's deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the
"FDIC"). In addition, Banco Popular has three subsidiaries, Popular Leasing &
Rental, Inc., Puerto Rico's largest vehicle leasing and daily rental company,
Popular Consumer Services, Inc., a small-loan and secondary mortgage company
with 35 offices in Puerto Rico operating under the name of Best Finance, and
Popular Mortgage, Inc., a mortgage loan company with four offices in Puerto Rico
operating under the name of Puerto Rico Home Mortgage. BP Capital Markets, Inc.
is a direct subsidiary of the Corporation engaged in the business of securities
broker-dealer in Puerto Rico, with institutional brokerage, financial advisory,
and investment and security brokerage operations.

         PIB, incorporated under the Puerto Rico International Banking Center
Act ("IBC Act"), owns all issued and outstanding stock of BanPonce Financial
Corp ("Financial"), a Delaware corporation. PIB is principally engaged in
providing managerial services to its subsidiaries. Financial is the direct owner
of all the issued and outstanding shares of Pioneer Bancorp, Inc., a corporation
organized under the laws of Delaware and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and
a registered bank holding company under the BHC Act of 1956, which through its
wholly-owned subsidiary River Associates, Bancorp, Inc., a Delaware corporation,
owns and operates Banco Popular, Illinois (formerly Pioneer Bank & Trust
Company) a bank organized under the laws of the State of Illinois with five
branches in that state. The deposits of Banco Popular, Illinois are insured by
the FDIC. As of December 31, 1996 the assets of Banco Popular, Illinois were
$467.4 million and its deposits were $375.3 million.

         Financial is also the direct owner of all the common stock of Banco
Popular, FSB, a federal savings bank which acquired from the Resolution Trust
Corporation ("RTC") certain assets and all of the deposits of four New Jersey
branches of the former Carteret Federal Savings Bank, a federal savings bank
under Resolution Trust Corporation conservatorship. The deposits of Banco
Popular, FSB are insured by the FDIC and it is subject to the supervision of the
Office of Thrift Supervision. As a result of the ownership of Banco Popular,
FSB, the Corporation has become a registered savings and loan holding company
under the Home Owners' Loan Act.

         Banco Popular, FSB owns Equity One, Inc., a Delaware corporation
(formerly Spring Financial Services, Inc.) ("Equity One"). Equity One is a
diversified consumer finance company engaged in the business of granting
personal and mortgage loans and providing dealer financing through 102 offices
in 28 states with total assets of $1.1 billion as of December 31, 1996. Equity
One had initially been acquired by Financial on September 30, 1991, prior to
which time Financial had no significant business operations.

         On September 30, 1996, Financial acquired all of the common stock of
CombanCorp, a corporation organized under the laws of California and
headquartered in Los Angeles, and a registered bank holding company under the
BHC Act. CombanCorp owns Banco Popular, National Association (California)
("Banco Popular, N.A. (California)"), a national bank with four branches in
California. The deposits of Banco Popular, N.A. (California) are also insured by
the FDIC and it is subject to the supervision of the Office of the Comptroller
of the Currency. As of December 31, 1996, it had assets of $139.5 million and
deposits of $100.9 million.

                                                                               3
<PAGE>   4
         The Corporation is a legal entity separate and distinct from its
subsidiaries. There are various legal limitations governing the extent to which
the Corporation's banking and savings bank subsidiaries may extend credit, pay
dividends or otherwise supply funds to, or engage in transactions with, the
Corporation or certain of its other subsidiaries. The rights of the Corporation
to participate in any distribution of assets of any subsidiary upon its
liquidation or reorganization or otherwise, are subject to the prior claims of
creditors of that subsidiary, except to the extent that the Corporation may
itself be a creditor of that subsidiary and its claims are recognized. Claims on
the Corporation's subsidiaries by creditors other than the Corporation may
include long-term debt and substantial obligations with respect to deposit
liabilities, federal funds purchased, securities sold under agreements to
repurchase and commercial paper, as well as various other liabilities.

         The Corporation's business is described on pages 10 through 29 of the
Business Review Section of the Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended
December 31, 1996, information which is incorporated herein by reference.

                           REGULATION AND SUPERVISION
GENERAL

         The Corporation is a bank holding company subject to the supervision
and regulation of the Federal Reserve Board under the BHC Act. As a bank holding
company, the Corporation's activities and those of its banking and non-banking
subsidiaries are limited to the business of banking and activities closely
related to banking, and the Corporation may not directly or indirectly acquire
the ownership or control of more than 5% of any class of voting shares or
substantially all of the assets of any company, in the United States including a
bank, without the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board. In addition, bank
holding companies are generally prohibited under the BHC Act from engaging in
non-banking activities, subject to certain exceptions.

         Banco Popular is considered a foreign bank for purposes of the
International Banking Act of 1978 (the "IBA"). Under the IBA Banco Popular is
not permitted to operate a branch or agency that is located outside of its "home
state", except that a national bank with the same home state is permitted to do
so as described under "Interstate Banking and Other Recent Legislation" below.
Puerto Rico is not considered a state for purposes of these geographic
limitations. Banco Popular has designated the state of New York as its home
state. In addition, some states have laws prohibiting or restricting foreign
banks from acquiring banks located in such states and treat Puerto Rico's banks
and bank holding companies as foreign banks for such purposes.

         Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) and Banco Popular, FSB are subject to supervision and examination
by applicable federal and state banking agencies including, in the case of Banco
Popular, the Federal Reserve Board and the Office of the Commissioner of
Financial Institutions of Puerto Rico, in the case of Banco Popular, Illinois,
the FDIC and the Illinois Commissioner of Banks and Trust Companies, in the case
of Banco Popular, N.A. (California), the Office of the Comptroller of the
Currency (the "OCC") and in the case of Banco Popular, FSB, the Office of Thrift
Supervision (the "OTS") and the FDIC. Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois,
Banco Popular, N.A. (California) and Banco Popular, FSB are subject to
requirements and restrictions under federal and state law, including
requirements to maintain reserves against deposits, restrictions on the types
and amounts of loans that may be granted and the interest that may be charged
thereon, and limitations on the types of other investments that may be made and
the types of services that may be offered. Various consumer laws and regulations
also affect the operations of Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco
Popular, N.A. (California) and Banco Popular, FSB. In addition to the impact of
regulations, commercial banks are affected significantly by the actions of the
Federal Reserve Board as it attempts to control the money supply and credit
availability in order to influence the economy.

F D I C I A

         Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991
("FDICIA") the federal banking regulators must take prompt corrective action in
respect of depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital
requirements. FDICIA and regulations thereunder established five capital tiers:
"well capitalized", "adequately capitalized," "undercapitalized", "significantly
undercapitalized", and "critically undercapitalized". A depository institution
is deemed well capitalized if it maintains a leverage ratio of at least 5%, a
risk-based Tier 1 capital ratio of at least 6% and a risk-based total capital
ratio of at least 10% and is not subject to any written agreement or directive
to meet a specific capital level. A depository institution is deemed adequately
capitalized if it is not well capitalized but maintains a leverage ratio of at
least 4% (or at least 3% if given the highest regulatory rating and not
experiencing or anticipating significant growth), a risk-based Tier 1 capital
ratio of at least 4% and a risk-based total capital ratio of at least 8%. A
depository institution is deemed undercapitalized if it fails to meet the
standards for adequately capitalized institutions (unless it is deemed
significantly or critically undercapitalized). An institution is deemed
significantly undercapitalized if it has a leverage ratio of 

4
<PAGE>   5
less than 3%, a risk-based Tier 1 capital ratio of less than 3% or a risk-based
total capital ratio of less than 6%. An institution is deemed critically
undercapitalized if it has tangible equity equal to 2% or less of total assets.
A depository institution may be deemed to be in a capitalization category that
is lower than is indicated by its actual capital position if it receives a less
than satisfactory examination rating in any one of four categories.

         At December 31, 1996, Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, and Banco
Popular, FSB were well capitalized. At the same date Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) was adequately capitalized. At the end of February 1997, after
receiving an additional capital contribution of one million from Financial,
Banco Popular, N.A. (California) was well capitalized.

         FDICIA generally prohibits a depository institution from making any
capital distribution (including payment of a dividend) or paying any management
fee to its holding company if the depository institution would thereafter be
undercapitalized. Undercapitalized depository institutions are subject to
restrictions on borrowing from the Federal Reserve System. In addition,
undercapitalized depository institutions are subject to growth limitations and
are required to submit capital restoration plans. A depository institution's
holding company must guarantee the capital plan, up to an amount equal to the
lesser of five percent of the depository institution's assets at the time it
becomes undercapitalized or the amount of the capital deficiency when the
institution fails to comply with the plan. The federal banking agencies may not
accept a capital plan without determining, among other things, that the plan is
based on realistic assumptions and is likely to succeed in restoring the
depository institution's capital. If a depository institution fails to submit an
acceptable plan, it is treated as if it is significantly undercapitalized.
Significantly undercapitalized depository institutions may be subject to a
number of requirements and restrictions, including orders to sell sufficient
voting stock to become adequately capitalized, requirements to reduce total
assets, and cessation of receipt of deposits from correspondent banks.
Critically undercapitalized depository institutions are subject to appointment
of a receiver or conservator.

HOLDING COMPANY STRUCTURE

         Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) and Banco Popular, FSB are subject to restrictions under federal
law that limit the transfer of funds between them and the Corporation,
Financial, PIB and the Corporation's other non-banking subsidiaries, whether in
the form of loans, other extensions of credit, investments or asset purchases.
Such transfers by Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) or Banco Popular, FSB, respectively, to the Corporation,
Financial, or PIB, as the case may be, or to any one non-banking subsidiary,
are limited in amount to 10% of the transferring institution's capital stock
and surplus and, with respect to the Corporation and all of its non-banking
subsidiaries, to an aggregate of 20% of the transferring institution's capital
stock and surplus. Furthermore, such loans and extensions of credit are
required to be secured in specified amounts.

         Under the Federal Reserve Board policy, a bank holding company such as
the Corporation, is expected to act as a source of financial strength to each of
its subsidiary banks and to commit resources to support each subsidiary bank.
This support may be required at times when, absent such policy, the bank holding
company might not otherwise provide such support. In the event of a bank holding
company's bankruptcy, any commitment by the bank holding company to a federal
bank regulatory agency to maintain the capital of a subsidiary bank will be
assumed by the bankruptcy trustee and entitled to a priority of payment. In
addition, any capital loans by a bank holding company to any of its subsidiary
banks must be subordinated in right of payment to deposits and to certain other
indebtedness of such subsidiary bank. Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois,
Banco Popular, N.A. (California) and Banco Popular, FSB are currently the only
depository institution subsidiaries of the Corporation.

         Because the Corporation, PIB and Financial are holding companies, their
right to participate in the assets of any subsidiary upon the latter's
liquidation or reorganization will be subject to the prior claims of the
subsidiary's creditors (including depositors in the case of depository
institution subsidiaries) except to the extent that the Corporation, PIB or
Financial, as the case may be, may itself be a creditor with recognized claims
against the subsidiary.

         Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA), a depository
institution (which definition includes both banks and savings associations), the
deposits of which are insured by the FDIC, can be held liable for any loss
incurred by, or reasonably expected to be incurred by, the FDIC in connection
with (i) the default of a commonly controlled FDIC-insured depository
institution or (ii) any assistance provided by the FDIC to any commonly
controlled FDIC-insured depository institution "in danger of default". "Default"
is defined generally as the appointment of a conservator or a receiver and "in
danger of default" is defined generally as the existence of 

                                                                               5
<PAGE>   6
certain conditions indicating that a default is likely to occur in the absence
of regulatory assistance. Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular,
N.A. (California) and Banco Popular, FSB are all currently FDIC-insured
depository institutions. In some circumstances (depending upon the amount of the
loss or anticipated loss suffered by the FDIC), cross-guarantee liability may
result in the ultimate failure or insolvency of one or more insured depository
institutions in a holding company structure. Any obligation or liability owned
by a subsidiary bank to its parent company is subordinated to the subsidiary
bank's cross-guarantee liability with respect to commonly controlled insured
depository institutions.

DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS

         The principal regular source of cash flow for the Corporation is
dividends from Banco Popular. Various statutory provisions limit the amount of
dividends Banco Popular can pay to the Corporation without regulatory approval.
As a member bank subject to the regulations of the Federal Reserve Board, Banco
Popular must obtain the approval of the Federal Reserve Board for any dividend
if the total of all dividends declared by the member bank in any calendar year
would exceed the total of its net profits, as defined by the Federal Reserve
Board, for that year, combined with its retained net profits for the preceding
two years. In addition, a member bank may not pay a dividend in an amount
greater than its undivided profits then on hand after deducting its losses and
bad debts. For this purpose, bad debts are generally defined to include the
principal amount of loans that are in arrears with respect to interest by six
months or more unless such loans are fully secured and in the process of
collection. Moreover, for purposes of this limitation, a member bank is not
permitted to add the balance in its allowance for loan losses account to its
undivided profits then on hand. However, it may net the sum of its bad debts as
so defined against the balance in its allowance for loan losses account and
deduct from undivided profits only bad debts as so defined in excess of that
account. At December 31, 1996, Banco Popular could have declared a dividend of
approximately $197.1 million without the approval of the Federal Reserve Board.
Illinois law contains similar limitations on the amount of dividends that Banco
Popular, Illinois can pay and the National Bank Act contains similar
limitations, on the amount of dividends Banco Popular, N.A. (California) can
pay. In addition, OTS regulations limit the amount of capital distributions
(whether by dividend or otherwise) that any savings association may make without
prior OTS approval, based upon the savings association's regulatory capital
levels. These limitations are applicable to Banco Popular, FSB. Also, in
connection with the acquisition by Banco Popular, FSB, from the RTC of four New
Jersey branches of the former Carteret Federal Savings Bank, the RTC provided
Banco Popular, FSB and Financial an interim financial assistance. The assistance
consisted of a 5-year term loan for $19.5 million, payable in the year 2000 in a
single lump sum installment and accruing interest, payable quarterly, at a
floating rate of 12.5 basis points over the rate payable on the 13-week U.S.
Treasury Bill. The loan is secured with the issued and outstanding shares of
common stock of Banco Popular, FSB. Pursuant to the term of such financing,
Banco Popular, FSB may not, among other things, declare or pay any dividends on
its outstanding capital stock (unless such dividends are used exclusively for
payment of principal of or interest on such promissory note) or make any
distributions of its assets until payment in full of such promissory note.

         The payment of dividends by Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois,
Banco Popular, N.A. (California) or Banco Popular, FSB may also be affected by
other regulatory requirements and policies, such as the maintenance of adequate
capital. If, in the opinion of the applicable regulatory authority, a depository
institution under its jurisdiction is engaged in, or is about to engage in, an
unsafe or unsound practice (that, depending on the financial condition of the
depository institution, could include the payment of dividends), such authority
may require, after notice and hearing, that such depository institution cease
and desist from such practice. The Federal Reserve Board has issued a policy
statement that provides that insured banks and bank holding companies should
generally pay dividends only out of current operating earnings. In addition, all
insured depository institutions are subject to the capital-based limitations
required by the FDICIA. See "FDICIA".

         See "Puerto Rico Regulation" for a description of certain restrictions
on Banco Popular's ability to pay dividends under Puerto Rico law.

FDIC INSURANCE ASSESSMENTS

         Banco Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) and Banco Popular, FSB are subject to FDIC deposit insurance
assessments.

         Pursuant to FDICIA, the FDIC has adopted a risk-based assessment
system, under which the assessment rate for an insured 

6
<PAGE>   7
depository institution varies according to the level of risk incurred in its
activities. An institution's risk category is based partly upon whether the
institution is well capitalized, adequately capitalized or less than adequately
capitalized. Each insured depository institution is also assigned to one of the
following "supervisory subgroups": "A", "B" or "C". Group "A" institutions are
financially sound institutions with only a few minor weaknesses; Group "B"
institutions are institutions that demonstrate weaknesses that, if not
corrected, could result in significant deterioration; and Group "C" institutions
are institutions for which there is a substantial probability that the FDIC will
suffer a loss in connection with the institution unless effective action is
taken to correct the areas of weakness.

         The FDIC reduced the insurance premiums it charges on bank deposits
insured by the Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF") to the statutory minimum of $2,000.00
for "well capitalized" banks, effective January 1, 1996. On September 30, 1996,
the Deposit Insurance Funds Act of 1996 ("DIFA") was enacted and signed into
law. DIFA repealed the statutory minimum premium and, currently, premiums
related to deposits assessed by both the BIF and the Savings Association
Insurance Fund ("SAIF") are to be assessed at a rate between 0 cents and 27
cents per $100.00 of deposits. DIFA also provides for a special one-time
assessment imposed on deposits insured by the SAIF to recapitalize the SAIF to
bring it up to statutory required levels. The Corporation accrued for the
one-time assessment in the third quarter of 1996.

         DIFA also separates, effective January 1, 1997, the Financing
Corporation ("FICO") assessment to service the interest on its bond obligations
from the BIF and SAIF assessments. The amount assessed on individual
institutions by the FICO will be in addition to the amount, if any, paid for
deposit insurance according to the FDIC's risk-related assessment rate
schedules. FICO assessment rates for the first semiannual period of 1997 were
set at 1.30 basis points annually for BIF-assessable deposits and 6.48 basis
points annually for SAIF-assessable deposits. (These rates may be adjusted
quarterly to reflect changes in assessment bases for the BIF and the SAIF. By
law, the FICO rate on BIF-assessable deposits must be one-fifth the rate on
SAIF-assessable deposits until the insurance funds are merged or until January
1, 2000, whichever occurs first.) As of December 31, 1996, the Corporation had a
BIF deposit assessment base of approximately $10.1 billion and a SAIF deposit
assessment base of approximately $207 million.

BROKERED DEPOSITS

         FDIC regulations adopted under FDICIA govern the receipt of brokered
deposits. Under these regulations, a bank cannot accept, roll over or renew
brokered deposits (which term is defined also to include any deposit with an
interest rate more than 75 basis points above prevailing rates) unless (i) it is
well capitalized or (ii) it is adequately capitalized and receives a waiver from
the FDIC. A bank that is adequately capitalized may not pay an interest rate on
any deposits in excess of 75 basis points over certain prevailing market rates
specified by regulation. There are no such restrictions on a bank that is well
capitalized. The Corporation does not believe the brokered deposits regulation
has had or will have a material effect on the funding or liquidity of Banco
Popular, Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A. (California) or Banco
Popular, FSB.

CAPITAL ADEQUACY

         Information about the capital composition of the Corporation as of
December 31, 1996 and for the four previous years is presented in Table I
"Capital Adequacy Data", on page F-16 in the "Management Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" (MD&A) and is incorporated
herein by reference.

         The Federal Reserve Board has adopted risk-based capital guidelines for
bank holding companies. Under the guidelines the minimum ratio of qualifying
total capital to risk-weighted assets (including certain off-balance sheet
items, such as standby letters of credit) is 8%. At least half of the total
capital is to be comprised of common equity, retained earnings, minority
interest in unconsolidated subsidiaries, non-cumulative perpetual preferred
stock and a limited amount of cumulative perpetual preferred stock, less
goodwill, other disallowed intangibles and the disallowed portion of deferred
tax assets ("Tier 1 Capital"). The remainder may consist of a limited amount of
subordinated debt, other preferred stock, certain other instruments and a
limited amount of loan and lease loss reserves ("Tier 2 Capital").

         The Federal Reserve Board has adopted regulations with respect to
risk-based and leverage capital ratios that require most intangibles, including
core deposit intangibles, to be deducted from Tier 1 Capital. The regulations,
however, permit the inclusion of a limited amount of intangibles related to
originated and purchased mortgage servicing rights, purchased credit card
relationships and include a "grandfather" provision permitting the continued
inclusion of certain existing intangibles.

         In addition, the Federal Reserve Board has established minimum leverage
ratio (Tier 1 Capital to quarterly average assets) 

                                                                               7
<PAGE>   8
guidelines for bank holding companies and member banks. These guidelines provide
for a minimum leverage ratio of 3% for bank holding companies and member banks
that meet certain specified criteria, including that they have the highest
regulatory rating. All other bank holding companies and member banks are
required to maintain a leverage ratio of 3% plus an additional cushion of at
least 100 to 200 basis points. The guidelines also provide that banking
organizations experiencing internal growth or making acquisitions are expected
to maintain strong capital positions substantially above the minimum supervisory
levels, without significant reliance on intangible assets. Furthermore, the
guidelines indicate that the Federal Reserve Board will continue to consider a
"tangible Tier 1 leverage ratio" and other indicia of capital strength in
evaluating proposals for expansion or new activities. The tangible Tier 1
leverage ratio is the ratio of a banking organization's Tier 1 Capital less all
intangibles, to quarterly average assets less all intangibles. The Federal
Reserve Board has not advised the Corporation of any specific minimum leverage
ratio applicable to it.

         Banco Popular is subject to the risk-based and leverage capital
requirements adopted by the Federal Reserve Board. As of December 31, 1996,
Banco Popular had a tier 1 capital ratio of 11.31%, a total capital ratio of
12.57% and a leverage ratio of 6.65%.

         Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A. (California) and Banco
Popular, FSB are subject to similar capital requirements adopted by the FDIC,
the OCC and the OTS, respectively.

         Failure to meet capital guidelines could subject a bank to a variety of
enforcement remedies, including the termination of deposit insurance by the
FDIC, and to certain restrictions on its business. See "FDICIA".

         The Federal Reserve Board established a limitation on the amount of
certain deferred tax assets that may be included in Tier 1 capital for
risk-based and leverage capital purposes. Under this rules deferred tax assets
that can only be realized if an institution earns taxable income in the future
and are limited for regulatory capital purposes to the amount that the
institution expects to realize within one year of the quarter-end report date
based on its projection of taxable income or 10 percent of Tier 1 capital,
whichever is less. In addition, the Federal Reserve Board has decided to exclude
from regulatory capital the amount of net unrealized gains and losses on
securities available-for-sale, except the net unrealized losses of equity
securities with readily determinable fair values.

         Bank regulators have from time to time indicated their desire to raise
capital requirements applicable to banking organizations beyond current levels.
However, management is unable to predict whether and when higher capital
requirements would be imposed and, if so, at what levels and on what terms.

Interstate Banking and Other Recent Legislation

         The Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994
permits bank holding companies, with Federal Reserve approval, to acquire banks
located in states other than the holding company's home state without regard to
whether the transaction is prohibited under state law. In addition, commencing
June 1, 1997, national and state banks with different home states will be
permitted to merge across state lines, with approval of the appropriate federal
banking agency, unless the home state of a participating bank passes legislation
prior to May 31, 1997 expressly prohibiting interstate mergers. States may "opt
in" to permit insterstate branching by merger prior to June 1, 1997, and to
permit de novo insterstate branching. Once a bank has established branches in a
state through an interstate merger transaction, the bank may establish and
acquire additional branches at any location in the state where any bank involved
in the interstate merger transaction could have established or acquired branches
under applicable federal or state law. A bank that has established a branch in a
state through de novo branching may establish and acquire additional branches in
such state in the same manner and to the same extent as a bank having a branch
in such state as a result of an interstate merger. If a state opts out of
interstate branching within the specified time period, no bank in any other
state may establish a branch in the state which has opted out, whether through
an acquisition or de novo. A foreign bank, like Banco Popular, may branch
interstate by merger or de novo to the same extent as domestic banks in the
foreign bank's home state, which, in the case of Banco Popular, is New York.

         Various other legislation, inluding proposals to overhaul the bank
regulatory system, expand bank and bank holding company powers and limit the
investments that a depository institution may make with insured funds, is from
time to time introduced in Congress. It is impossible to predict whether or in
what form these proposals may be adopted in the future, and, if adopted, what
their effect will be on the Corporation or its subsidiaries.

8
<PAGE>   9
Puerto Rico Regulation

    General

         As a commercial bank organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico (the "Commonwealth"), Banco Popular is subject to the supervision,
examination and regulation of the Office of the Commissioner of Financial
Institutions of the Commonwealth (the "Office of the Commissioner"), pursuant to
the Puerto Rico Banking Act of 1933, as amended (the "Banking Law").

         Section 27 of the Banking Law requires that at least ten percent (10%)
of the yearly net income of Banco Popular be credited annually to a reserve
fund. This apportionment shall be done every year until the reserve fund shall
be equal to ten percent (10%) of the total deposits or the total paid-in
capital, whichever is greater. At the end of its most recent fiscal year, Banco
Popular had a fund established in compliance with these requirements.

         Section 27 of the Banking Law also provides that when the expenditures
of a bank are greater than the receipts, the excess of the former over the
latter shall be charged against the undistributed profits of the bank, and the
balance, if any, shall be charged against the reserve fund, as a reduction
thereof. If there is no reserve fund sufficient to cover such balance in whole
or in part, the outstanding amount shall be charged against the capital account
and no dividend shall be declared until said capital has been restored to its
original amount and the reserve fund to 20% of the original capital.

         Section 16 of the Banking Law requires every bank to maintain a legal
reserve which shall not be less than 20% of its demand liabilities, except
government deposits (federal, state and municipal) which are secured by actual
collateral. However, if a bank becomes a member of the Federal Reserve System,
the 20% legal reserve shall not be effective and the reserve requirements
demanded by the Federal Reserve System shall be applicable. Pursuant to an order
of the Board of Governors dated November 24, 1982, Banco Popular has been
exempted from such reserve requirements with respect to deposits payable in
Puerto Rico but is subject to Puerto Rico regulatory reserve requirements.

         Section 17 of the Banking Law permits Banco Popular to make loans to
any one person, firm, partnership or corporation, up to an aggregate amount of
fifteen percent (15%) of the paid-in capital and reserve fund of the Bank. As of
December 31, 1996, the legal lending limit for the Bank under this provision was
approximately $90 million. If such loans are secured by collateral worth at
least twenty-five percent (25%) more than the amount of the loan, the aggregate
maximum amount may reach one third of the paid-in capital of the Bank, plus its
reserve fund. There are no restrictions under Section 17 on the amount of loans
that are wholly secured by bonds, securities and other evidence of indebtedness
of the Government of the United States or the Commonwealth, or by current debt
bonds, not in default, of municipalities or instrumentalities of the
Commonwealth.

         Section 14 of the Banking Law authorizes Banco Popular to conduct
certain financial and related activities directly or through subsidiaries,
including lease financing of personal property, operating small loans companies
and mortgage loans activities. Banco Popular engages in these activities through
its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Popular Leasing & Rental, Inc., Popular Consumer
Services, Inc. and Popular Mortgage, Inc., respectively, which are organized and
operate solely in Puerto Rico.

         The Finance Board, which is a part of the Office of the Commissioner,
but also includes as its members the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of
Commerce, the Secretary of Consumer Affairs, the President of the Planning
Board, and the President of the Government Development Bank for Puerto Rico, has
the authority to regulate the maximum interest rates and finance charges that
may be charged on loans to individuals and unincorporated businesses in the
Commonwealth. The current regulations of the Finance Board provide that the
applicable interest rate on loans to individuals and unincorporated businesses
(including real estate development loans but excluding certain other personal
and commercial loans secured by mortgages on real estate properties) is to be
determined by free competition. The Finance Board also has authority to regulate
the maximum finance charges on retail installment sales contracts, which are
currently set at 21%, and for credit card purchases, which are currently set at
26%. There is no maximum rate set for installment sales contracts involving
motor vehicles, commercial, agricultural and industrial equipment, commercial
electric appliances and insurance premiums.

IBC Act

         Under the IBC Act, without the prior approval of the Office of the
Commissioner, PIB may not amend its articles of incorporation or issue
additional shares of capital stock or other securities convertible into
additional shares of capital stock unless such shares 

                                                                               9
<PAGE>   10
are issued directly to the shareholders of PIB previously identified in the
application to organize the international banking entity, in which case
notification to the Office of the Commissioner must be given within ten business
days following the date of the issue. Pursuant to the IBC Act, without the prior
approval of the Office of the Commissioner, PIB may not initiate the sale,
encumbrance, assignment, merger or other transfer of shares if by such
transaction a person or persons acting in concert could acquire direct or
indirect control of 10% or more of any class of the Company's stock. Such
authorization must be requested at least 30 days prior to the transaction.

         PIB must submit to the Office of the Commissioner a report of its
condition and results of operation on a monthly basis and its annual audited
financial statement as of the end of its fiscal year. Under the IBC Act, PIB may
not deal with "domestic persons" as such term is defined in the IBC Act. Also,
it may only engage in those activities authorized in the IBC Act, the
regulations adopted thereunder and its license.

         The IBC Act empowers the Office of the Commissioner to revoke or
suspend, after a hearing, the license of an international banking entity if,
among other things, it fails to comply with the IBC Act, regulations issued by
the Office of the Commissioner or the terms of its license or if the Office of
the Commissioner finds that the business of the international banking entity is
conducted in a manner not consistent with the public interest.

Employees

         At December 31, 1996, the Corporation employed 7,996 persons. None of
its employees are represented by a collective bargaining group.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

         As of December 31, 1996, Banco Popular owned (and wholly or partially
occupied) approximately 68 branch premises and other facilities throughout the
Commonwealth and branches premises in New York. In addition, as of such date,
Banco Popular leased properties for branch operations in approximately 113
locations in Puerto Rico, 16 locations in New York, 7 locations in the U.S.
Virgin Islands and one location in the British Virgin Islands. The Corporation's
management believes that each of its facilities is well-maintained and suitable
for its purpose. The principal properties owned by Banco Popular for banking
operations and other services are described below:

         Popular Center, the metropolitan area headquarters building, located at
209 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico, a 20 story office building.
Approximately 60% of the office space is leased to outside tenants.

         Cupey Center Complex, two buildings of three and two stories,
respectively, located at Cupey, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. The computer center,
operational and support services, and a recreational center for employees are
some of the main activities conducted at these facilities. The facilities are
fully occupied by Banco Popular's personnel.

         Stop 22 - Santurce building, a twelve story structure located in
Santurce, Puerto Rico. A branch, the accounting department, the human resources
division and the auditing department are the main activities conducted at this
facility.

         San Juan building, a twelve story structure located at Old San Juan,
Puerto Rico. Banco Popular occupies 50% of the basement, the entire ground
floor, the mezzanine and the 10th floor. The rest of the building is rented to
outside tenants.

         Mortgage Loan Center, a seven story building and a four story building,
located at 153 and 167 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico,
respectively, are fully occupied by the mortgage loans and mortgage servicing
departments.

         New York building, a nine story structure with two underground levels
located at 7 West 51st. Street, New York City, where approximately 92% of the
office space is used for banking operations. The remaining space is rented or
available for rent to outside tenants.

         At December 31, 1996 the Corporation owned a 23 story office structure
located at 268 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico. Banco Popular
occupies approximately 15% of the rented space and the rest of the building is
rented to outside tenants. At the same date, Banco Popular, N.A. (California)
owned a nine story structure located at 354 South Spring Street, Los Angeles,

10
<PAGE>   11
California in which office space is mostly rented to outside tenants. A full
service branch of Banco Popular, N.A. (California) operates in this facility.

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

         The Corporation and its subsidiaries are defendants in various lawsuits
arising in the ordinary course of business. Management believes, based on the
opinion of legal counsel, that the aggregate liabilities, if any, arising from
such actions would not have a material adverse effect on the financial position
of the Corporation.

ITEM 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

         Not Applicable.

                                     PART II

ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON STOCK AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

         The Corporation's common stock (the "Common Stock") is traded on the
National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation (NASDAQ) National
Market System under the symbol BPOP. Information concerning the range of high
and low sales prices for the Corporation's common shares for each quarterly
period during 1996 and the previous four years, as well as cash dividends
declared is contained under Table J, "Common Stock Performance", on page F-17
and under the caption "Stockholders' Equity" on page F-15 in the MD&A, and is
incorporated herein by reference.

         Information concerning legal or regulatory restrictions on the payment
of dividends by the Corporation and Banco Popular is contained under the caption
"Regulation and Supervision" in Item 1 herein.

         On April 26, 1996, the Corporation's Board of Directors authorized a
stock split of one share for each share outstandings effected in the form of a
dividend, on July 1, 1996. As a result of the split 33,000,590 shares were
issued, and $198 million were transferred from retained earnings to common
stock.

         As of February 28, 1997, the Corporation had 5,628 stockholders of
record of its Common Stock, not including beneficial owners whose shares are
held in record names of brokers or other nominees. The last sales price for the
Corporation's Common Stock on such date, as quoted on the NASDAQ was $36.00 per
share.

         The Corporation currently has outstanding $125 million subordinated
notes due December 15, 2005 with interest payable semi-annually at 6.75%. These
notes are unsecured subordinated obligations which are subordinated in right of
payment in full to all present and future senior indebtedness of the
Corporation. These notes do not provide for any sinking fund.

         The Puerto Rico Income Tax Act of 1954, as amended, generally imposes a
withholding tax on the amount of any dividends paid by corporations to
individuals, whether residents of Puerto Rico or not, trusts, estates and
special partnerships at a special 10% withholding tax rate. If the recipient is
a foreign corporation or partnership not engaged in trade or business within
Puerto Rico the rate of withholding is 10%.

         Prior to the first dividend distribution for the taxable year,
individuals who are residents of Puerto Rico may elect to be taxed on the
dividends at the regular rates, in which case the special 10% tax will not be
withheld from such year's distributions.

         United States citizens who are non-residents of Puerto Rico will not be
subject to Puerto Rico tax on dividends if said individual's gross income from
sources within Puerto Rico during the taxable year does not exceed $1,300 if
single, or $3,000 if married, and form AS 2732 of the Puerto Rico Treasury
Department "Withholding Tax Exemption Certificate for the Purpose of Section
1147", is filed with the withholding agent.

         U.S. income tax law permits a credit against U.S. income tax liability,
subject to certain limitations, for certain foreign income taxes paid or deemed
paid with respect to such dividends.

                                                                              11
<PAGE>   12
ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

         The information required by this item appears in Table B, "Selected
Financial Data" on pages F-4 and F-5 and the text under the caption "Earnings
Analysis", on page F-7 in the MD&A, and is incorporated herein by reference.

         The Corporation's ratio of earnings to fixed charges on a consolidated
basis for each of the last five years is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  Year ended December 31,
                                                  -----------------------

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges:

                                           1996     1995     1994     1993    1992
                                           ----     ----     ----     ----    ----
         <S>                                <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>     <C>
         Excluding Interest on Deposits     2.0      2.0      2.6      3.0     2.9
         Including Interest on Deposits     1.4      1.4      1.5      1.5     1.3

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and
  Preferred Stock Dividends:

         Excluding Interest on Deposits     2.0      2.0      2.5      3.0     2.9
         Including Interest on Deposits     1.4      1.4      1.5      1.5     1.3
</TABLE>

         For purposes of computing these consolidated ratios, earnings represent
income before income taxes, plus fixed charges. Fixed charges represent all
interest expense (ratios are presented both excluding and including interest on
deposits), the portion of net rental expense which is deemed representative of
the interest factor and the amortization of debt issuance expense.

         The Corporation's long-term senior debt and preferred stock on a
consolidated basis for each of the last five years ended December 31, is as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               Year ended December 31,
                                               -----------------------
                                                    
                                1996         1995         1994         1993         1992
                                ----         ----         ----         ----         ----
(In thousands)
<S>                         <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>       
Long-term obligations       $1,111,713   $  885,428   $  489,524   $  283,855   $  120,062
Non-Cumulative preferred
 stock of the Corporation      100,000      100,000      100,000          -0-          -0-
Cumulative perpetual
 preferred stock of
 Banco Popular                     -0-          -0-          -0-       11,000       11,000
</TABLE>

ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
         OF OPERATIONS

         The information required by this item appears on page F-2 through F-34
under the caption "MD&A" and is incorporated herein by reference.

         Table L, "Maturity Distribution of Earning Assets", on page F-20 in the
MD&A, has been prepared on the basis of contractual maturities. The Corporation
does not have a policy with respect to rolling over maturing loans, but rolls
over loans only on a case-by-case basis after review of such loans in accordance
with the Corporation's lending criteria.

12
<PAGE>   13
ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

         The information required by this item appears on pages F-35 through
F-75, and on page F-32 under the caption "Statistical Summary - Quarterly
Financial Data", in the MD&A and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
         FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

         Not Applicable.

                                    PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

         The information contained under the captions "Shares Beneficially Owned
by Directors, Nominees and Executive Officers of the Corporation", "Beneficial
Ownership Reporting Compliance", "Board of Directors and Committees" including
the "Nominees for Election as Directors" and "Executive Officers" of the
Corporation's definitive proxy statement filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on or about March 20, 1997 (the "Proxy Statement"), is incorporated
herein by reference.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

         The information under the caption "Executive Compensation Program", and
under the caption "BanPonce Corporation Performance Graph" of the Proxy
Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

         The information under the captions "Principal Stockholders", and under
"Shares Beneficially Owned by Directors, Nominees and Officers of the
Corporation" of the Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

         The information under the caption "Family Relationships" and "Other
relationships and transactions" of the Proxy Statement, is incorporated herein
by reference.

                                                                              13
<PAGE>   14
                                    PART IV

ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

A.       The following documents are part of this report and appear on the 
         pages indicated.

         (1)      Financial Statements:

<TABLE>
                  <S>                                                                            <C>
                  Report of Independent Auditors...............................................  F-35
                  Consolidated Statements of Condition as of December 31, 1996
                    and 1995...................................................................  F-36 
                  Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years in 
                    the three-year period ended December 31, 1996..............................  F-37
                  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years 
                    in the three-year period ended December 31, 1996...........................  F-38
                  Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity 
                    for each of the years in the three-year period ended 
                    December 31, 1996..........................................................  F-39
                  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...................................  F-40
</TABLE>

         (2)      Financial Statement Schedules: No schedules are presented
                  because the information is not applicable or is included in
                  the Consolidated Financial Statements described in A.1 above
                  or in the notes thereto.

         (3)      Exhibits

                  The exhibits listed on the Exhibits Index on page 17 of this
                  report are filed herewith or are incorporated herein by
                  reference.

B.       The Corporation filed one report on Form 8-K during the quarter ended
         December 31, 1996.

         Dated: October 9, 1996

         Items reported: Item 5 - Other Event

                         Item 7 - Financial Statements, Pro Forma Financial 
                                  Information and Exhibits

14
<PAGE>   15
SIGNATURES

         Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

                                    BANPONCE CORPORATION
                                         (Registrant)


                                    By: S\RICHARD L. CARRION
                                        --------------------
                                        Richard L. Carrion
                                        Chairman of the Board, President
                                        and Chief Executive Officer
Dated: 02-13-97                         (Principal Executive Officer)
      ----------

                                    By: S\JORGE A. JUNQUERA
                                        -------------------
                                        Jorge A. Junquera
                                        Senior Executive Vice President
Dated: 02-13-97                         (Principal Financial Officer)
      ----------

                                    By: S\AMILCAR L. JORDAN
                                        -------------------
                                        Amilcar L. Jordan
                                        Senior Vice President
Dated: 02-13-97                         (Principal Accounting Officer)
      ----------

         Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.


<TABLE>
<S>                                 <C>                                 <C>
S\RICHARD L. CARRION                Chairman of the Board,
- --------------------                President and Chief
Richard L. Carrion                  Executive Officer                   02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\ALFONSO F. BALLESTER              Vice Chairman of
- ----------------------              the Board                           02-13-97
Alfonso F. Ballester                                                    --------

S\ANTONIO LUIS FERRE                Vice Chairman of
- --------------------                the Board                           02-13-97
Antonio Luis Ferre                                                      --------

S\JUAN J. BERMUDEZ
- ------------------
Juan J. Bermudez                    Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\FRANCISCO J. CARRERAS
- -----------------------
Francisco J. Carreras               Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\DAVID H. CHAFEY, JR.
- ----------------------
David H. Chafey, Jr.                Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\LUIS E. DUBON, JR.
- --------------------
Luis E. Dubon, Jr.                  Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------
</TABLE>

                                                                              15
<PAGE>   16
<TABLE>
<S>                                 <C>                                 <C>
S\HECTOR R. GONZALEZ
- --------------------
Hector R. Gonzalez                  Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\JORGE A. JUNQUERA
- -------------------
Jorge A. Junquera                   Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\MANUEL MORALES, JR.
- ---------------------
Manuel Morales, Jr.                 Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\ALBERTO M. PARACCHINI
- -----------------------
Alberto M. Paracchini               Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

- -----------------------
Francisco Perez, Jr.                Director                            --------

S\FRANCISCO M. REXACH, JR.
- --------------------------
Francisco M. Rexach, Jr.            Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

- --------------------------
Jose E. Rossi                       Director                            --------

S\FELIX J. SERRALLES, JR.
- -------------------------
Felix J. Serralles, Jr.             Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\EMILIO JOSE VENEGAS
- ---------------------
Emilio Jose Venegas                 Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------

S\JULIO E. VIZCARRONDO, JR.
- ---------------------------
Julio E. Vizcarrondo, Jr.           Director                            02-13-97
                                                                        --------
</TABLE>


16
<PAGE>   17
                                  EXHIBIT INDEX

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT NO.                        DESCRIPTION                                FOOTNOTE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 <S>         <C>                                                                 <C>
  3.1        Restated certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws of BanPonce
             Corporation                                                         (1)
  4.1        Form of certificate for common stock                                (1a)
  4.2        Certificates of Resolution of the Board of Directors of
             BanPonce Corporation dated August 11, 1988 creating a series
             of Preferred Stock of the Corporation designated as Series A
             Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock Purchase rights and
             the designation and amount of such series, the voting power
             preferences, and relative, participating, optional, or other
             special rights of the shares of such series, and the
             qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof. Rights
             Agreement dated as of August 11, 1988 by and between BanPonce
             Corporation and Manufacturers Hanover Trust Company regarding
             the issuance of certain Rights to the Corporation's
             shareholders.                                                       (2)
  4.3        Amendment to Rights Agreement dated as of December 11, 1990.        (3)
  4.4        Indenture, dated as of October 1, 1991, among BanPonce
             Financial Corp, BanPonce Corporation and Citibank, N.A.
             relating to the debt securities of BanPonce Financial Corp
             guaranteed by BanPonce Corporation.                                 (2a)
  4.5        Form of medium-term fixed rate note of BanPonce Financial Corp
             guaranteed by BanPonce Corporation.                                 (2b)
  4.6        Form of medium-term floating rate note of BanPonce Financial
             Corp guaranteed by BanPonce Corporation.                            (2c)
  4.7        Form of Certificate of 8.35% non-cumulative monthly Income
             Preferred Stock, 1994 Series A (Liquidation Preference $25.00
             per share).                                                         (4)
  4.8        Form S-3 filed in connection with the issuance of debt
             securities and preferred stock of BanPonce Corporation,
             Popular International Bank, Inc. and BanPonce Financial Corp
             and guaranteed by BanPonce Corporation in the aggregate amount
             of $1,000,000,000.                                                  (5)
  4.9        Subordinated indenture of BanPonce Corporation, dated November
             30, 1995, between BanPonce Corporation and the First National
             Bank of Chicago, as trustee, and related to 6 3/4%
             subordinated notes due December 15, 2005 in the aggregate
             amount of $125,000,000.                                             (6)
  4.10       Form of subordinated note of BanPonce Corporation.                  (7)
  4.11       Indenture, dated as of February 15, 1995, between BanPonce
             Corporation and the First National Bank of Chicago, as
             trustee.                                                            (15)
  4.12       Form of medium-term fixed rate note of BanPonce Corporation         (16)
  4.13       Form of medium-term floating rate note of BanPonce Corporation      (17)
 10.2        Form 8-A Filing filed in connection with the Series A
             Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock Purchase Rights.           (8)
 10.3        Senior Note Agreement dated as of January 15, 1992, between
             BanPonce Corporation and New York Life Insurance Company
             regarding the issuance by BanPonce Corporation of $30,000,000
             Senior Notes due January 15, 1997.                                  (9)
 10.8        Management Incentive Plan for certain Division Supervisors
             approved in January, 1987.                                          (10)
 10.8.1      BanPonce Corporation Senior Executive Long-Term Incentive Plan
             dated October 6, 1994.                                              (11)
 10.9        Stock Deferment Plan for outside directors effective on August
             15, 1996.
 10.10       Revolving loan agreement executed by and between Vehicle
             Equipment Leasing and BanPonce Corporation as of January 15,
             1992 in the aggregate principal amount of $30,000,000.              (12)
 10.11       $85,785,000 Banco Popular de Puerto Rico 1992 Grantor Trust 1
             Mortgage Pass - Through Certificates, Class A, offering
             memorandum dated June 25, 1992. Underwriting Agreement by and
             between Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Incorporated
             acting through its Puerto Rico branch office and Lehman
             Brothers Puerto Rico, Inc. and Banco Popular de Puerto Rico
             dated June 25, 1992; Insurance Agreement by and between
             Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation as Insurer,
             Banco Popular de Puerto Rico as Settlor, Banco Popular de
             Puerto Rico as Servicer, Banco Central as Collateral Agent and
             Banco Central as Trustee dated June 25, 1992.                       (13)
 10.12.2     Revolving Credit and competitive advance facility and credit
             agreement by and between BanPonce Corporation and BanPonce
             Financial Corp and Chemical Bank, as agent bank, for borrowing
             up to the principal amount of $500,000,000 dated as of
             November 3, 1995.                                                   (14)
 10.13       Banco Popular de Puerto Rico Bank's Note Program up to the
             aggregate amount of $600,000,000 executed on September 24,
             1996
 10.14       BanPonce Financial Corp, 6 3/4% Medium Term Notes, Series C,
             due August 9, 2001 in the aggregate principal amount of
             $75,000,000.
</TABLE>

                                                                              17
<PAGE>   18
<TABLE>
 <S>         <C>                                                                 
 12.0        Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
 13.1        Registrants Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended
             December 31, 1996
 21.1        Schedule of Subsidiaries
 23.1        Consent of Independent Auditors
 27.0        Financial Data Schedule (for SEC use only)
 99.1        Registrant's Proxy Statement for the April 25, 1997 Annual
             Meeting of Stockholders
</TABLE>

- ------------------------------
(1)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of Registration
                  Statement No.33-39028.

(1a)              Incorporated by reference to exhibit 4.1 of the Corporation's
                  Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
                  1990 (the "1990 Form 10-K").

(2)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 of Registration
                  Statement No. 33-39028.

(2a)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c) to Registration
                  Statement No. 33-41686 and to Exhibit 4(a) on Form 8-K filed
                  on February 28, 1995.

(2b)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 on Form 8-K filed on
                  October 8, 1991.

(2c)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 on Form 8-K filed on
                  October 8, 1991.

(3)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 of Registration
                  Statement No. 33-39028.

(4)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 of the 1994 Form
                  10-K.

(5)               Incorporated by reference to Registration Statement No.
                  33-61601.

(6)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(e) on Form 8-K filed on
                  December 13, 1995.

(7)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(p) on Form 8-K filed on
                  December 13, 1995.

(8)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit number 10.2 of
                  Registration Statement No. 33-00497.

(9)               Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 of the 1991 Form
                  10-K.

(10)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 of the 1991 Form
                  10-K.

(11)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8.1 of the 1994 Form
                  10-K.

(12)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 of the 1991 Form
                  10-K.

(13)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 of the 1992 Form
                  10-K.

(14)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12.2 of the 1994 Form
                  10-K.

(15)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c) on Form 8-K filed on
                  April 13, 1995.

(16)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) on Form 8-K filed on
                  April 13, 1995.

(17)              Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(b) on Form 8-K filed on
                  April 13, 1995.
<PAGE>   19
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                              BANPONCE CORPORATION
                              INDEX FINANCIAL DATA


<TABLE>  
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  PAGE
         
<S>                                                                               <C>
FINANCIAL REVIEW AND SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
 Results of Operations..........................................................  F-2

Statistical Summaries...........................................................  F-28

Glossary of Terms...............................................................  F-33



FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Report of Independent Accountants...............................................  F-35

Consolidated Statements of Condition as of December 31, 1996 and 1995...........  F-36

Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years in the 
 three-year period ended December 31, 1996......................................  F-37

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years in the 
 three-year period ended December 31, 1996......................................  F-38

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders Equity for each
 of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1996..................  F-39

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements......................................  F-40
</TABLE>



                                                                            F-1
<PAGE>   20
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

         This financial discussion contains an analysis of the consolidated
financial position and financial performance of BanPonce Corporation and its
subsidiaries (the Corporation), and should be read in conjunction with the
consolidated financial statements, notes and tables included elsewhere in this
report. The Corporation is a bank holding company which offers a wide range of
products and services through its subsidiaries and is engaged in the following
businesses:

         -        Commercial Banking/Savings and Loans - Banco Popular de Puerto
                  Rico (Banco Popular), Banco Popular, Illinois, Banco Popular,
                  FSB, and Banco Popular, N.A. (California)
         -        Lease Financing - Popular Leasing and Rental, Inc., and
                  Vehicle Equipment Leasing Company, Inc. (VELCO)
         -        Mortgage Banking/Consumer Finance - Popular Mortgage, Inc.
                  (d/b/a Puerto Rico Home Mortgage), Equity One, Inc. (Equity
                  One) and Popular Consumer Services, Inc. (d/b/a Best Finance)
         -        Investment Banking - BP Capital Markets, Inc. (BP Capital)

OVERVIEW

         On April 26, 1996, the Corporation's Board of Directors authorized a
common stock split in the form of a dividend of one share for each share
outstanding. The new shares were distributed on July 1, 1996, to shareholders of
record as of June 14, 1996. All common stock data included herein has been
restated to reflect the stock split.

         BanPonce Corporation faced many challenges during 1996. Factors such as
legislation and acquisitions in the local banking industry all played an
important role. These factors did not hinder the strong results and strategic
development obtained during the year, as the net income amounted to $185.2
million, showing a $38.8 million or 26.5% increase over the $146.4 million
reported in 1995. The earnings performance reflected an increase in net interest
income and improvements in non-interest income, tempered by increases in the
provision for loan losses, operating expenses and income taxes.

         Earnings per common share (EPS) for 1996 were $2.68, based on
66,022,312 average shares outstanding, compared with $2.10 for 1995, based on
65,816,300 average shares outstanding. The Corporation's profitability ratios
for 1996 represented returns of 1.14% on assets (ROA) and 16.15% on common
stockholders' equity (ROE), compared with an ROA and ROE of 1.04% and 14.22%,
respectively, in 1995. Table A presents a five-year summary of the components of
net income as a percentage of average assets.

         In 1996, the Corporation continued experiencing balance sheet growth
with total assets amounting to $16.8 billion compared with $15.7 billion a year
earlier. BanPonce ranked 42nd in asset size among the U.S. banking companies as
of the end of the third quarter of 1996. In addition, as a result of the
Corporation's emphasis on building diverse and stable sources of funding to
strengthen its operations and sustain future growth, total deposits increased to
$10.8 billion from $9.9 billion a year ago. Borrowings rose $30 million, from
$4.4 billion in 1995.

         In line with the emphasis regulatory agencies have placed on capital
strength, stockholders' equity of the Corporation reached $1.26 billion at
December 31, 1996, compared with $1.14 billion at December 31, 1995. The
Corporation's regulatory capital ratios continued to exceed the well-capitalized
guidelines with a Tier I ratio of 11.63%, a total capital ratio of 14.18% and a
leverage ratio of 6.71% at December 31, 1996, compared with 11.91%, 14.65% and
6.66%, respectively, a year earlier.

         The Corporation's common stock appreciated 74.1% during 1996, from a
market price of $19.38 at December 31, 1995, to $33.75 on the same date in 1996.
Also, the Board of Directors approved a 20% increase in the quarterly cash
dividend effective for the second quarter of 1996, to $0.18 per common share,
from $0.15 per share paid in the previous quarters.

         As explained more thoroughly in the Net Interest Income and Liquidity
Risk sections, during the third quarter of 1996 the U.S. Congress repealed
Section 936 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Section 936 provided certain U.S.
corporations operating on the Island with a tax credit against its federal tax
liability on income derived from business operations and investment activity in
Puerto Rico. The bill approved repealed the Qualified Possession Source
Investment Income (QPSII) effective July 1, 1996, for taxable years beginning
after December 31, 1995, while the income and the wage credit provisions will be
phased out in 10 years. As expected, the repeal of this section caused a
reduction in the volume of 936 funds, but at a significantly lower pace than
originally expected.

         In September 1996, President Clinton signed into law, as part of the
Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, the "Deposit Insurance Funds Act of 1996"
(the Act). The Act required the capitalization of the Savings Association
Insurance Fund (SAIF) to its 

F-2
<PAGE>   21
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE A
Components of Net Income as a Percentage of Average Total Assets
                                                                         For the Year
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          1996     1995     1994     1993    1992
                                                         ------------------------------------------
<S>                                                      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>   
Net interest income .................................     4.18%    4.14%    4.38%    4.61%    4.62%
Provision for loan losses ...........................    (0.54)   (0.46)   (0.44)   (0.68)   (1.03)
Security and trading gains ..........................     0.02     0.05              0.01     0.01
Other income ........................................     1.24     1.18     1.15     1.16     1.30
                                                         ------------------------------------------

                                                          4.90     4.91     5.09     5.10     4.90
Operating expenses ..................................    (3.33)   (3.45)   (3.66)   (3.86)   (3.85)
                                                         ------------------------------------------
Net income before tax, dividends on preferred stock
  of Banco Popular and cumulative effect of
  accounting changes ................................     1.57     1.46     1.43     1.24     1.05
Provision for income tax ............................    (0.43)   (0.42)   (0.41)   (0.26)   (0.15)
                                                         ------------------------------------------

Net income before  dividends on preferred stock of
  Banco Popular and cumulative effect of
  accounting changes ................................     1.14     1.04     1.02     0.98     0.90
Dividends on preferred stock of Banco Popular .......                               (0.01)   (0.01)
Cumulative effect of accounting changes .............                                0.05
                                                         ------------------------------------------

Net income ..........................................     1.14%    1.04%    1.02%    1.02%    0.89%
                                                         ==========================================
</TABLE>


designated reserve level ratio of 1.25% of insured deposits in thrift
institutions and gave the FDIC the legal authority to impose a special one-time
assessment on all SAIF-insured institutions. During the last quarter of 1996,
Banco Popular, FSB recognized $1.1 million in other operating expenses related
to this one-time assessment. The Act also provides that the assessment base for
the payment of interest on obligations issued by the Financing Corporation
(FICO) for the resolution of failed thrifts will be expanded to include all
FDIC-insured depository institutions. Excluding the effect of this one-time
assessment, this legislation will result in an estimated $1.1 million higher
deposit insurance expense for the Corporation during 1997.

         During 1996, the economy showed moderate growth and subdued
inflationary pressures. The overall growth of the GDP in 1996 was 3.40%. The
Federal Reserve eased interest rates early in the year, lowering the Federal
Funds rate 25 basis points to 5.25%, without changing the monetary policy for
the rest of the year. However, market rates rose as the financial markets
started pricing with the increasing probability of a tighter monetary policy in
the near-term future.

         The Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act, which
allows bank holding companies to expand into different states in the United
States, will include the interstate branching provisions effective June 1997.
Since the approval of this act in 1994, acquisitions have taken an even more
active role within the banking industry. This is also the case at BanPonce
Corporation, which continued its geographical expansion and development of new
ways to provide technology and delivery systems outside Puerto Rico.

         During the first quarter of 1996, the Corporation purchased 20% of the
common stock of Jamaica's fourth largest financial institution, Citizens Bank.
The Corporation also acquired preferred stock of Citizens Bank, convertible into
an additional 10% of common equity of said institution.

         Also, ATH-Dominicana, the first automated teller machine (ATM) network
in the Dominican Republic, began operations on March 25, 1996. This network,
provides customers of banks in the Dominican Republic access to ATMs in Puerto
Rico and the United States. This joint venture of Banco Popular and certain
financial institutions of the Dominican Republic, was the first opportunity to
export Banco Popular's technological infrastructure and expertise outside Puerto
Rico and the U.S. mainland.

         With the experience obtained from ATH-Dominicana, the Corporation is in
the process of establishing ATH-Costa Rica, the first ATM network in that
country. Banco Popular, with its shared network ATH (A Toda Hora) and sixteen
banking institutions in Costa Rica, will join to add 70 machines to the 80 ATMs
currently operating, while providing its customers with access to ATMs in Puerto
Rico and the United States, and vice-versa.


                                                                             F-3
<PAGE>   22
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE B

Selected Financial Data

Year ended December 31,
                                                           ---------------------------------------------
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)                   1996           1995             1994    
                                                           ---------------------------------------------

<S>                                                         <C>             <C>             <C>       
CONDENSED INCOME STATEMENTS                               
  Interest income .......................................   $ 1,272,853     $ 1,105,807     $    887,141
  Interest expense ......................................       591,540         521,624          351,633
                                                            --------------------------------------------
   Net interest income ..................................       681,313         584,183          535,508
                                                          
  Security and trading gains (losses) ....................        3,202           7,153              451
  Operating income .......................................      202,270         166,185          140,852
  Operating expenses .....................................      541,919         486,833          447,846
  Provision for loan losses ..............................       88,839          64,558           53,788
  Income tax .............................................       70,877          59,769           50,043
  Dividends on preferred stock of Banco Popular ..........                                           385
  Cumulative effect of accounting changes ................
                                                          
                                                            --------------------------------------------
   Net income .........................................     $   185,150     $   146,361     $    124,749
                                                            ============================================
   Net income applicable to common stock ..............     $   176,800     $   138,011     $    120,504
                                                            ============================================
                                                          
PER COMMON SHARE DATA*                                    
  Net income ...........................................    $      2.68     $      2.10     $       1.84
  Dividends declared ...................................           0.69            0.58             0.50
  Book value ...........................................          17.59           15.81            13.74
  Market price .........................................          33.75           19.38            14.07
  Outstanding shares:                                     
   Average .............................................     66,022,312      65,816,300       65,596,486
   End of period .......................................     66,088,506      65,897,272       65,676,256
                                                          
AVERAGE BALANCES                                          
  Net loans ............................................    $ 9,210,964     $ 8,217,834     $  7,107,746
  Earning assets .......................................     15,306,311      13,244,170       11,389,680
  Total assets .........................................     16,301,082      14,118,183       12,225,530
  Deposits .............................................     10,461,796       9,582,151        8,837,226
  Subordinated notes ...................................        147,951          56,850           56,082
  Total stockholders' equity ...........................      1,194,511       1,070,482          924,869
                                                          
PERIOD END BALANCES                                       
  Net loans .............................................   $ 9,779,028     $ 8,677,484     $  7,781,329
  Allowance for loan losses .............................       185,574         168,393          153,798
  Earning  assets .......................................    15,484,454      14,668,195       11,843,806
  Total assets ..........................................    16,764,103      15,675,451       12,778,358
  Deposits ..............................................    10,763,275       9,876,662        9,012,435
  Subordinated notes ....................................       125,000         175,000           50,000
  Total stockholders' equity ............................     1,262,532       1,141,697        1,002,423
                                                          
SELECTED RATIOS                                           
  Net interest yield (taxable equivalent basis) ........           4.77%           4.74%            5.06%
  Return on average total assets .......................           1.14            1.04             1.02
  Return on average earning assets .....................           1.21            1.11             1.10
  Return on average common stockholders' equity ........          16.15           14.22            13.80
  Dividend payout ratio to common stockholders .........          24.63           26.21            27.20
  Average net loans/average total deposits .............          88.04           85.76            80.43
  Average earning assets/average total assets ..........          93.90           93.81            93.16
  Average stockholders' equity/average net loans .......          12.97           13.03            13.01
  Average stockholders' equity/average assets ..........           7.33            7.58             7.57
  Overhead ratio .......................................          49.38           53.66            57.24
  Tier I capital to risk-adjusted assets ...............          11.63           11.91            12.85
  Total capital to risk-adjusted assets ................          14.18           14.65            14.25
  Effective tax rate ...................................          27.68           29.00            28.57
</TABLE>                                                  


*Per share data is based on the average number of shares outstanding during the 
periods, except for the book value which is based on total shares at the end
of the periods.  All per share data has been adjusted to reflect two stock
splits effected in the form of a dividend on July 1, 1996 and on April 3, 1989.

F-4

<PAGE>   23

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Year ended December 31,
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     1993          1992            1991            1990               1989               1988                 1987
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>            <C>             <C>             <C>             <C>                <C>                  <C>           
$   772,136    $   740,354     $   794,943     $   565,807     $      558,273     $      488,200       $      410,605
    280,008        300,135         387,134         281,561            302,747            261,316              206,778
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    492,128        440,219         407,809         284,246            255,526            226,884              203,827
      1,418            625          19,376              91              2,529                689                 (366)
    123,762        123,879         112,398          70,865             59,550             53,025               40,623
    412,276        366,945         345,738         229,563            207,376            190,862              182,593
     72,892         97,633         121,681          53,033             42,603             34,750               18,000
     28,151         14,259           6,793           9,240             11,456              7,844                5,956
        770            770             807
      6,185
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$   109,404    $    85,116     $    64,564     $    63,366     $       56,170     $       47,142       $       37,535
======================================================================================================================
$   109,404    $    85,116     $    64,564     $    63,366     $       56,170     $       47,142       $       37,535
======================================================================================================================

$      1.67    $      1.40     $      1.07     $      1.57     $         1.40     $         1.18       $         0.94
       0.45           0.40            0.40            0.40               0.40               0.34                 0.33
      12.75          11.52           10.50            9.83               9.38               8.38                 7.54
      15.50          15.13            9.63            8.00              10.75               8.88                 6.69

 65,402,472     60,922,988      60,071,202      40,233,940         40,028,026         40,000,000           40,000,000
 65,464,846     65,309,728      60,187,704      59,884,812         40,074,792         40,000,000           40,000,000

$ 5,700,069    $ 5,150,328     $ 5,302,189     $ 3,377,463     $    3,132,167     $    2,869,829       $    2,510,495
  9,894,662      8,779,981       8,199,195       5,461,938          5,318,800          5,182,535            4,597,329
 10,683,753      9,528,518       8,944,357       5,836,749          5,676,981          5,523,823            4,918,984
  8,124,885      7,641,123       7,198,187       5,039,422          4,782,791          4,571,456            4,211,465
     73,967         85,585          94,000          50,000             38,082                119                1,717
    793,001        668,990         610,641         407,611            353,844            317,001              286,752

$ 6,346,922    $ 5,252,053     $ 5,195,557     $ 5,365,917     $    3,276,389     $    3,056,761       $    2,737,271
    133,437        110,714          94,199          89,335             40,896             33,244               28,423
 10,657,994      9,236,024       8,032,556       8,219,279          5,469,921          5,221,873            4,957,221
 11,513,368     10,002,327       8,780,282       8,983,624          5,923,261          5,661,398            5,352,745
  8,522,658      8,038,711       7,207,118       7,422,711          4,926,304          4,715,837            4,491,612
     62,000         74,000          94,000          94,000             50,000                                     500
    834,195        752,119         631,818         588,884            375,807            334,867              301,425

       5.50%          6.11%           5.97%           6.30%              5.57%              5.10%                5.04%
       1.02           0.89            0.72            1.09               0.99               0.85                 0.76
       1.11           0.97            0.79            1.16               1.06               0.91                 0.82
      13.80          12.72           10.57           15.55              15.87              14.87                13.09
      25.39          28.33           34.13           25.33              28.14              28.00                35.17
      70.16          67.40           73.66           67.02              65.49              62.78                59.61
      92.61          92.14           91.67           93.58              93.69              93.82                93.46
      13.91          12.99           11.52           12.07              11.30              11.05                11.42
       7.42           7.02            6.83            6.98               6.23                .74                 5.83
      58.34          55.07           52.47           55.80              56.86              60.45                69.83
      12.29          12.88           11.01           10.10               9.47               9.19                  N/A
      13.95          14.85           13.35           12.74              11.76              10.10                  N/A
      21.30          14.24            9.41           12.73              16.94              14.27                13.70
</TABLE>




                                                                             F-5
<PAGE>   24
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE C
Changes in Net Income and Earnings per Common Share
                                                                   1996                    1995                           1994
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands, except per common share amounts)             Dollars    Per share  Dollars     Per share   Dollars       Per share
                                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                        <C>         <C>       <C>          <C>         <C>           <C>     
Net income applicable to common stock
 for prior year ..................................         $ 138,011   $   2.10  $ 120,504    $   1.84    $ 109,404     $   1.67
Increase (decrease) from changes in:
 Net interest income .............................            97,130       1.47     48,675        0.74       43,380         0.66
 Other operating income ..........................            36,085       0.55     25,333        0.38       17,090         0.26
 Trading account profit ..........................            (1,678)     (0.03)     1,558        0.02         (327)
 Gain on sale of investment securities ...........            (2,273)     (0.03)     5,144        0.08         (640)       (0.01)
 Dividends on preferred stock of Banco Popular                                         385        0.01          385         0.01
 Income tax ......................................           (11,108)     (0.17)    (9,726)      (0.15)     (21,892)       (0.33)
 Provision for loan losses .......................           (24,281)     (0.37)   (10,770)      (0.16)      19,104         0.29
 Operating expenses ..............................           (55,086)     (0.84)   (38,987)      (0.59)     (35,570)       (0.54)
                                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Subtotal .........................................           176,800       2.68    142,116        2.17      130,934         2.01

Cumulative effect of accounting changes ..........                                                           (6,185)       (0.09)
Dividends declared on preferred stock ............                                  (4,105)      (0.06)      (4,245)       (0.07)
Change in average common shares* .................                                               (0.01)                    (0.01)
                                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income applicable to common stock ............         $ 176,800   $   2.68  $ 138,011    $   2.10    $ 120,504     $   1.84
                                                           =====================================================================
</TABLE>



*Reflects the effect of the issuance of shares of common stock through the
Dividend Reinvestment Plan in the years presented. The average common shares
outstanding used in the above computation were 66,022,312 for 1996, 65,816,300
for 1995 and 65,596,486 for 1994, after restating for the stock split effected
in the form of a dividend on July 1, 1996.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------


        In the third quarter of 1996, BanPonce completed the acquisition of
CombanCorp, the parent company of Commerce National Bank, which added to the
Corporation three branches in California, located in City of Commerce,
Montebello and Downey, with $75 million in assets and $63 million in deposits.

        In Puerto Rico, Banco Popular opened nine branches in supermarkets as
part of an in-store branch initiative and three branches within the premises of
shopping centers in order to provide banking services at our customers'
convenience.  Banco Popular, FSB also opened one branch in 1996, further
expanding its presence in New Jersey, for a total of six branches in that
state. Moreover, during 1996 Banco Popular, Illinois, formerly Pioneer Bank,
opened its fifth full-service branch in Chicago and Equity One opened 11 new
offices in the mainland, giving Equity One a total of 102 offices in 28 states.

        During the last quarter of 1996, as part of a strategy to emphasize
BanPonce's strong Hispanic ties, the Corporation's subsidary banks operating in
California and Illinois, previously known as Commerce National Bank and Pioneer
Bank & Trust Company, respectively, changed their names to Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) and Banco Popular, Illinois, respectively.

        Moving toward 1997, the Corporation has announced the following
acquisitions now awaiting the approval of regulatory agencies:

           - National Bancorp, the holding company of American Midwest Bank &
             Trust in Chicago, Illinois, with assets of approximately $175
             million and deposits of $146 million at November 1996, operating
             two branches in Melrose Park.
          -  CBC Bancorp and its two banking subsidiaries, Capitol Bank & Trust
             and Capitol Bank of Westmont, with assets of approximately $315
             million and deposits of $280 million.
          -  Roig Commercial Bank, which operates 25 branches mainly located in
             the eastern part of Puerto Rico, with assets of approximately $900
             million and deposits of $650 million.
          -  Seminole National Bank in Sanford, Florida, with assets of 
             approximately $26 million and deposits of $22 million, operating
             three branches in Sanford and Orlando.

        Further discussion of operating results and the Corporation's financial
condition is presented in the following narrative and tables.  In addition,
Table B provides selected financial data for the last 10 years.


F-6
<PAGE>   25

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE D
Net Interest Income - Taxable Equivalent Basis

                                                     Year ended December 31,                                      
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------     
(Dollars in thousands)                  1996                          1995                     1994               
                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------     
                                     AVERAGE                        Average                    Average            
                              BALANCE          RATE        Balance             Rate     Balance       Rate        
                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------     
                            <S>               <C>        <C>                  <C>     <C>              <C>        
Earning assets ........     $15,306,311       8.63%      $13,244,170          8.68%   $11,389,680      8.15%      
                            =================================================================================     
Financed by:                                                                                                      
  Interest                                                                                                        
5 bearing funds......      $12,778,488       4.63%      $10,991,569          4.75%   $ 9,330,838      3.77%      
  Non-interest                                                                                                    
   bearing funds ......       2,527,823                    2,252,601                    2,058,842                 
                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Total ............     $15,306,311       3.86%      $13,244,170          3.94%   $11,389,680      3.09%      
                            =================================================================================     
Net interest income....     $   729,438                  $   628,233                  $   576,575                 
                            =================================================================================     
Spread ................                       4.00%                           3.93%                    4.38%      
Net interest yield                            4.77                            4.74                     5.06       
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               Year ended December 31,               
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------                     
(Dollars in thousands)                  1993                          1992                                
                            ---------------------------------------------------------                     
                                     Average                        Average                               
                              Balance             Rate     Balance             Rate                       
                            ---------------------------------------------------------                     
<S>                         <C>                  <C>       <C>                 <C>         
Earning assets ........     $ 9,894,662          8.33%     $ 8,779,981         9.53%       
                            =========================================================      
Financed by:                                                                               
  Interest                                                                                 
5  bearing funds .....     $ 8,097,004          3.46%     $ 7,277,051         4.12%       

  Non-interest                                                                             
   bearing funds ......       1,797,658                      1,502,930                     
                            ---------------------------------------------------------
     Total ............     $ 9,894,662          2.83%     $ 8,779,981         3.42%       
                            =========================================================
Net interest income....     $   544,471                    $   536,485                     
                            =========================================================
Spread ................                          4.87%                         5.41%       
Net interest yield ....                          5.50                          6.11        
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

EARNINGS ANALYSIS
        
        The Corporation's net earnings for 1996 amounted to $185.2 million, 
compared with $146.4 million a year before, for a rise of 26.5%.  The net
income applicable to common stock rose $38.8 million to $176.8 million in 1996,
from $138.0 million in 1995.  Table C shows variances, in dollar and per common
share amounts, of the major captions of the Corporation's income statement for
the past three years.  The 1996 growth in the earnings applicable to common
stock was principally related to:               
        
          -  A rise in net interest income due to the growth of $2.1 billion 
             in the average volume of earning assets driven by a $1.1 billion 
             increase in the investment portfolio and a $1.0 billion increase 
             in average loans.           
          -  An increase in non-interest income of $36.1 million, led by a 
             $15.5 million rise in other income, largely attributed to the 
             Corporation's leasing and mortgage subsidaries.     
          -  Lower gains on sale of securities.  
          -  Increase in the income tax provision mainly due to a higher
             pre-tax income.      
          -  Increase in the provision for loan losses related to the growth 
             in the loan portfolio and net charge-offs.
          -  Rise in operating expenses reflecting the growth of the 
             Corporation as well as increased spending on personnel, technology
             and corporate strategic initiatives aimed at enchancing future
             revenue growth.

NET INTEREST INCOME

        Due to the significant impact the net interest income has in the
Corporation's earnings, special emphasis is given to interest rate risk.  The
Corporation constantly monitors the composition and repricing of its assets and
liabilities in order to maximize the net interest income, while maintaining the
interest rate risk within an acceptable level, as further discussed in the Risk
Management section.

        Net interest income increased $97.1 million for the year ended December
31, 1996, reaching the $681.3 million, compared with $584.2 million reported in
1995.  In 1994, net interest income totaled $535.5 million.

        The income derived from certain loans and investments that the
Corporation carries among its earning assets is exempt for income tax purposes. 
Therefore, in order to present all interest data on a comparable basis, the
interest income earned on these assets has been converted to fully taxable
equivalent using the applicable statutory tax rates.

        For the year ended December 31, 1996, net interest income, on a taxable
equivalent basis, was $729.4 million, or 16.1% higher than the $628.2 million
reported in 1995.  This figure amounted to $576.6 million in 1994.  A higher
volume of earning assets, partially offset by a higher volume of
interest-bearing liabilities together with a change in the mix of both,
accounted for $71.8 million of the increase, while a higher net interest margin
accounted for the remaining $29.4 million.  Table D presents, a


                                                                             F-7
<PAGE>   26




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE E
Interest Variance Analysis - Taxable Equivalent Basis
                                                   1996 vs. 1995                     1995 vs. 1994
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                           INCREASE (DECREASE) DUE TO CHANGE IN:  Increase (Decrease) Due to Change in:
                                         ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           VOLUME       RATE       TOTAL         Volume       Rate         Total
                                         ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>      
Interest income:
 Federal funds sold and securities
  and mortgages purchased under
  agreements to resell ..............    $  25,661   $  (2,175)  $  23,486    $  15,883    $   2,082    $  17,965
 Time deposits with other banks ......         122          12         134         (112)          38          (74)
 Investment securities ...............      26,217      (2,777)     23,440       19,471       27,795       47,266
 Trading securities ..................      13,392        (219)     13,173        9,499          (35)       9,464
 Loans ...............................     103,667       7,221     110,888      108,062       38,967      147,029
                                         ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Total interest income .............      169,059       2,062     171,121      152,803       68,847      221,650
                                         ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest expense:
 Savings, NOW
  and money market accounts .........        7,666      (2,715)      4,951        1,160        8,530        9,690
 Other time deposits ................       24,119      (8,632)     15,487       31,345       41,022       72,367
 Short-term borrowings ..............       48,288      (5,128)     43,160       36,413       27,573       63,986
 Long-term borrowings ...............       17,189     (10,871)      6,318       15,887        8,061       23,948
                                         ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Total interest expense ............       97,262     (27,346)     69,916       84,805       85,186      169,991
                                         ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net interest income ................     $  71,797   $  29,408   $ 101,205    $  67,998    $ (16,339)   $  51,659
                                         ============================================================================
</TABLE>


Note: The changes that are not due solely to volume or rate are allocated to
volume and rate based on the proportion of the change in each category.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

comparative analysis of the net interest income and rates, on a taxable
equivalent basis, for the past five years and Table E presents an analysis of
the major categories of earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and
their impact on the net interest income due to changes in volume and rates.

        Average earning assets increased to $15.3 billion compared with $13.2
billion in 1995 and $11.4 billion in 1994.  The increase in average earning
assets for 1996, relates primarily to the rise of $1.1 billion in money market
investments, investments and trading account securities and to the rise in
average loans of $1.0 billion.

        Average loans, which comprised 60.2% of the average balance of earning
assets, rose 12.1% reaching $9.2 billion.  The rise relates to increases of $479
million in commercial loans, $259 million in mortgage loans and $258 million in
consumer loans.  Average leases grew $19 million, while construction loans
averaged $22 million less than in 1995.

        Banco Popular, as a result of its business expansion in the United
States and Puerto Rico, contributed $345 million or 72.0% to the increase in
average commercial loans.  The rise in mortgage loans was principally attributed
to Equity One, reaching an average of $720 million in mortgage loans in 1996,
compared with $573 million in 1995.  Consumer loans at Banco Popular rose $168
million contributing 65.3% of the total increase mainly in the home equity, auto
and credit card portfolios.

        The average yield on loans, on a taxable equivalent basis, for the year
ended December 31, 1996, was 10.11% compared with 9.98% in 1995 and 9.47% in
1994. The principal contributor to the rise in the yield on loans was the
consumer loan portfolio, with an increase of 51 basis points, reaching an
average yield of 12.85% compared with 12.34% in 1995. Changes in the pricing
structure of some consumer loan categories together with the implementation of a
matched-maturity internal funds transfer pricing system in Banco Popular and
aggressive marketing campaigns, helped to improve this yield. Also, the yield on
lease financings increased 58 basis points and the yield on mortgage loans rose
10 basis points. On the other hand, the yield on commercial loans, including
construction, decreased to 8.98% for the year ended December 31, 1996, compared
with 9.11% in 1995, as a result of a decrease in the average prime rate in 1996
compared with 1995 and increased competition in the Puerto Rico market.

        Investment securities, the Corporation's second largest category of
earning assets, averaged $4.8 billion in 1996, compared with $4.5 billion in
1995. This rise was mostly attained at Banco Popular principally in U.S.
Treasury securities. The income 



F-8
<PAGE>   27
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
derived from U.S. Treasuries is exempt for income tax purposes in Puerto Rico.
The taxable equivalent yield of investment securities for 1996, averaged 6.63%
compared with 6.65% in 1995.

         Average money market investments increased $490 million, reaching $893
million compared with $403 million in 1995. This increase relates mainly to BP
Capital, acquired during the second quarter of 1995, whose average balance for
1996 increased 122.9% from $391 million in 1995 to $871 million in 1996. The
average yield on these securities for 1996 was 5.23%, or 50 basis points lower
than the 5.73% reported during 1995. The lower interest rate scenario that
prevailed during 1996 as compared to 1995, caused the decrease in yield due to
the short-term nature of these assets.

         BP Capital also contributed to the total increase in trading account
securities, with an increase of $113 million to an average balance of $228
million versus $115 million reported in 1995. Furthermore, Puerto Rico Home
Mortgage had an increase of $96 million in its average trading portfolio. The
taxable equivalent yields on trading account securities for the years ended
December 31, 1996 and 1995 were 6.18% and 6.32%, respectively.

         The proportionately higher increase in the average investment
portfolio, which carries a lower yield than the loan portfolio, coupled with the
decrease in the average yield on money market investments, resulted in a
reduction of five basis points in the taxable equivalent yield on earning assets
from 8.68% in 1995 to 8.63% in 1996.

         Interest-bearing liabilities increased $1.8 billion, averaging $12.8
billion compared with $11.0 billion during 1995. Of the total increase, 48.4% or
$865 million is attributed to a rise in short-term borrowings, 37.6% to an
increase in interest-bearing deposits and the remainder to an increase in medium
and long-term debt.

         The rise in the average balance of short-term borrowings is mainly
attributed to an increase of $579 million due to arbitrage activities at BP
Capital and the issuance of commercial paper by BanPonce Financial, increasing
$180 million on average. The interest cost of short-term borrowings decreased to
5.33% from 5.44% in 1995, mainly as a result of the market conditions that
prevailed in 1996.

         Average interest-bearing deposits increased $672 million or 8.7%, from
$7.7 billion reported in 1995 to $8.4 billion in 1996, while average demand
deposits rose 11.3% to $2.1 billion. The Corporation had an increase in average
time deposits of $443 million, while savings deposits rose $183 million and NOW
and money market deposits rose $46 million. Most of the increases in the diverse
categories of deposits relate to Banco Popular de Puerto Rico.

         The average cost of interest-bearing deposits decreased 10 basis points
to 4.16%, compared with 4.26% reported in 1995 due to the lower interest rate
environment. Time deposits had a lower cost in 1996, decreasing to 5.25% versus
5.46% in 1995. The average cost of NOW and money market deposits decreased 35
basis points, from 3.62% in 1995 to 3.27% in 1996. On the other hand, savings
accounts increased 7 basis points to 3.04% from 2.97% in 1995. This increase is
partially due to the shift of customers from some lower rate accounts to
accounts paying interest based on tiers. These accounts, created primarily to
provide greater customer convenience, although increase somewhat the cost of
deposits, attracted new customers in order to maintain the Corporation's market
share and strong deposit base.

         Average medium and long-term debt increased by $251 million to $906
million and its cost decreased from 7.68% reported in 1995 to 6.25% in 1996. The
decrease in the average cost is principally due to debt issued during 1996 in a
lower interest rate environment and debt with floating interest rates resetting
semiannually or quarterly.

         The average cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreased 12 basis
points, from 4.75% in 1995 to 4.63% in 1996, while the cost of funding earning
assets decreased from 3.94% to 3.86% in 1996.

         In spite of the decrease of five basis points in the yield on earning
assets, on a taxable equivalent basis, and the increase in the volume of
relatively expensive funds, mainly as a result of arbitrage activities at BP
Capital, the decline in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities had a greater
impact on the net interest margin of the Corporation, which increased to 4.77%,
on a taxable equivalent basis, 3 basis points higher than the 4.74% reported for
1995. Those margins were diluted by 33 basis points and 17 basis points in 1996
and 1995, respectively, as a result of the acquisition of BP Capital in 1995 and
the increase in its average asset size in 1996. Due to its significant volume of
arbitrage activities, this broker/dealer operation had taxable equivalent net
interest yields of 48 and 54 basis points in 1996 and 1995, respectively. The
average asset size of BP Capital is expected to decrease in 1997, as it did at
the end of 1996, as a result of the reduction in the volume of 936 funds.



                                                                             F-9
<PAGE>   28
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

         As further discussed in the Liquidity Risk section, in August 1996, the
U.S. Congress approved legislation that repealed Section 936 of the Internal
Revenue Code. The bill approved repealed QPSII retroactively for taxable years
beginning after December 31, 1995. As a result, the Corporation experienced a
reduction in the volume of 936 funds during the fourth quarter of 1996, although
at a slower pace than anticipated. These funds are being substituted with
conventional, more expensive funds, which will cause the cost of funds to
increase. However, some 936 corporations have chosen not to withdraw all of
their funds from financial institutions and have, instead, invested those funds
at a longer term to reduce the tollgate taxes applicable upon repatriating those
funds. As a result, the cost of those funds have remained below that of the U.S.
or Eurodollar market. The expected increase in the cost of funds should be
partially offset by several mitigating factors which include a higher rate
charged on commercial loans, whose price was previously indexed to a 936 market
rate, and a lower level of investments required by local regulations to all
recipients of 936 funds which have a yield substantially below market rates. At
December 31, 1996, the Corporation had $2.2 billion in 936 funds, representing
14.3% of its liabilities, compared with $2.3 billion or 15.7% at the end of
1995.

PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES

         The provision for loan losses reflects management's assessment of the
adequacy of the allowance for loan losses to cover potential write-offs in the
loan portfolio. The provision for loans losses was $88.8 million for 1996,
compared with $64.6 million in 1995, an increase of $24.2 million or 37.6%. The
provision for loan losses for 1994 was $53.8 million. The increase in the
provision for 1996 was based primarily on the rise in the Corporation's loan
portfolio, a rise in net charge-offs and current and expected economic
conditions. Net charge-offs for the year totaled $72.1 million or 0.78% of
average loans, compared with $50.0 million or 0.61% in 1995 and $36.9 million or
0.52% in 1994.

         Although all loan categories reflected increases in net charge-offs,
the increase is primarily attributed to a rise in the net charge-offs of
consumer loans which amounted to $29.1 million compared with $17.2 million a
year earlier and lease financings, which rose $7.7 million in net charge-offs
during 1996.

         Please refer to the Credit Risk Management and Loan Quality section for
a more detailed analysis of the allowance for loan losses, net charge-offs, and
credit quality statistics.

NON-INTEREST INCOME

         Non-interest income, which consists primarily of service charges on
deposit accounts, credit card fees, other fee-based services and other revenues,
rose $36.1 million or 21.7% to $202.3 million in 1996, from $166.2 million in
1995. In 1994, these revenues totaled $140.9 million. This rise was driven by
increases of $15.5 million in other income, $7.2 million in service charges on
deposit accounts, $5.0 million in debit card fees, $3.1 million in credit card
fees and discounts, $2.2 million in credit life insurance fees and $1.6 million
in mortgage servicing fees, net of amortization. As shown in Table F, those
increases helped to improve the ratio of non-interest income to average assets
from 1.18% in 1995, to 1.24% in 1996. In 1994, this ratio was 1.15%. The ratio
of non-interest income to operating expenses also increased from 34.14% in 1995
to 37.32% in 1996.

         Service charges on deposit accounts, grew to $85.8 million for the year
ended December 31, 1996, from $78.6 million in 1995 and $71.7 million in 1994.
Factors such as a higher volume of deposits and new deposit products, a broader
variety of services offered to commercial accounts, together with revisions made
to the fee structure, were mainly responsible for the increase in this revenue
category. Measured as a percentage of average deposits, service charges were
0.82% in 1996 and 1995, and 0.81% in 1994.

         Other service fees, which represented 38.1% of non-interest income for
the year, increased $13.3 million or 20.9%, from $63.7 million in 1995 to $77.1
million in 1996. Debit card fees, which consist primarily of rental income of
point-of-sale (POS) terminals and interchange income, rose $5.0 million in Banco
Popular. This increase is in line with the growth in the volume of transactions
at POS terminals from a monthly average of approximately 990,000 in December
1995 to 2,048,000 a year later. The number of POS terminals, from which rental
income is derived, increased 57.6% to 11,392 as of December 31, 1996, from 7,229
a year earlier. Credit card fees and discounts rose $3.1 million, reflecting a
higher portfolio level and increased customer activity. In addition, included in
other fees are an additional $2.4 million due to the expanded sale and
administration of investment products such as mutual funds.



F-10

<PAGE>   29

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE F
Other Operating Income


                                                               Year ended December 31,
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Dollars in thousands)
                                                                                                   Five-Year
                                              1996      1995       1994       1993       1992        C.G.R
                                           -----------------------------------------------------------------------
 <S>                                        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>           <C>  
 Service charges on deposit accounts        $ 85,846   $ 78,607   $ 71,727   $ 68,246   $ 63,064       9.31%
 Other service fees:
  Credit card fees and discounts ...          23,735     20,676     18,620     16,818     16,795       9.21
  Credit life insurance fees .......           7,955      5,766      4,889      4,270      3,286      16.10
  Debit card fees ..................          10,430      5,425      3,185      1,704      1,497      55.18
  Mortgage servicing fees, net of
   amortization ....................           7,534      5,956      2,301      2,936      3,174      21.09
  Trust fees .......................           6,174      5,851      5,159      4,084      4,403       8.78
  Other fees .......................          21,242     20,051     17,086     13,135     13,336      11.84
 Other income ......................          39,354     23,853     17,885     12,569     18,324      16.85
                                       ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total ........................        $202,270   $166,185   $140,852   $123,762   $123,879      12.47%
                                       ===========================================================================
 Other operating income
   to average assets ...............            1.24%      1.18%      1.15%      1.16%      1.30%         
 Other operating income
   to operating expenses ...........           37.32      34.14      31.45      30.02      33.76         
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>





         The largest single category of non-interest income contributing to the
increase in 1996 was other income, which increased $15.5 million or 65.0% and
$21.5 million or 120% over 1995 and 1994, respectively. Other income of the
Corporation's leasing subsidiaries increased $7.5 million, mainly as a result of
higher daily rental income and gains on sales of daily rental units. Also,
Puerto Rico Home Mortgage and Equity One both realized higher gains on sale of
mortgage loans of $3.2 million and $1.4 million, respectively. Moreover, BP
Capital contributed $2.5 million to the increase in other operating income, due
to a higher volume of investment banking and underwriting services.

SECURITY AND TRADING GAINS

         The Corporation sold $2.9 billion in investment securities
available-for-sale during 1996, realizing a net gain of $3.1 million. BanPonce
Financial recorded a gain on the sale of equity securities of $7.0 million,
offset by a net loss of $3.9 million recorded in Banco Popular. In 1995, $286
million of the investment securities available-for-sale were sold for a net gain
of $5.4 million, principally due to a gain on the sale of equity securities of
$6.1 million recorded at BanPonce Financial, partially offset by a net loss of
$0.9 million in Banco Popular.

         Trading account activities for the year ended December 31, 1996,
resulted in profits of $108 thousand, compared with profits of $1.8 million in
1995. During 1995, profits were attained primarily in Puerto Rico Home Mortgage
and BP Capital, with gains of $1.2 million each, offset by losses of $0.6
million in Banco Popular.

OPERATING EXPENSES

         Total operating expenses were $541.9 million for the year ended
December 31, 1996, compared with $486.8 million in 1995 and $447.8 million in
1994. As shown in Table G, the increase of $55.1 million or 11.3% resulted from
a $24.1 million rise in personnel costs together with a $26.0 million increase
in professional fees, business promotion and equipment expenses, tempered by a
reduction in the FDIC assessment of $8.7 million.

         Total personnel costs, the Corporation's largest expense category, were
$273.2 million in 1996, an increase of 9.7% compared with $249.1 million in
1995. Total personnel costs for 1994 amounted to $225.7 million. The growth in
personnel costs was led by an increase of $13.4 million in salary expense, due
largely to annual merit increases, greater use of incentive pay to compensate
sales efforts and increased headcount as a result of the continuous expansion.
Full-time equivalent employees (FTE) amounted to 7,996 at December 31, 1996, up
181 from 7,815 at the end of 1995. The increase in FTE results mainly from the
addition of 90 employees at Equity One related with the opening of 11 offices
during 1996, and increased staffing at Banco 

                                                                            F-11
<PAGE>   30
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE G
Operating Expenses


                                                        Year ended December 31,
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Dollars in thousands)                                                                                        Five-Year
                                                1996      1995         1994         1993       1992              C.G.R
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                         <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>               <C>    
  Salaries ...............................  $ 185,946   $ 172,504    $ 160,996    $ 151,432   $ 134,709           7.43%
  Pension and other benefits .............     64,609      57,568       45,546       44,713      36,484          11.42
  Profit sharing .........................     22,692      19,003       19,205       19,766      17,041          11.65
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total personnel costs .................    273,247     249,075      225,747      215,911     188,234           8.63
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Equipment expenses .....................     47,957      41,577       35,474       27,964      23,813          16.08
  Professional fees ......................     46,182      34,954       33,757       27,302      22,558          19.12
  Net occupancy expense ..................     36,899      32,850       28,440       26,085      25,442          10.40
  Communications .........................     26,470      23,106       20,308       18,203      17,048           8.78
  Business promotion .....................     26,229      17,801       16,271       16,638      12,548          19.59
  Other taxes ............................     23,214      20,872       19,807       15,996      14,608          12.21
  Amortization of intangibles ............     18,054      20,204       18,003       16,176      14,888           5.69
  Printing and supplies ..................     11,964      11,069        8,817        8,189       7,290           7.46
  Other operating expenses:
     FDIC assessment .....................      1,544      10,257       19,346       17,802      16,372         (36.54)
     Transportation and travel ...........      5,852       4,424        3,946        3,554       3,136          13.19
     All other ...........................     24,307      20,644       17,930       18,456      21,008           4.77
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Subtotal ...........................    268,672     237,758      222,099      196,365     178,711          10.23
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total ..............................  $ 541,919   $ 486,833    $ 447,846    $ 412,276   $ 366,945           9.41%
                                            ===========================================================================

  Efficiency ratio .......................      61.33%      64.88%       66.21%       66.94%      65.05%            
  Personnel costs to average assets ......       1.68        1.76         1.85         2.02        1.98             
  Operating expenses to average assets ...       3.32        3.45         3.66         3.86        3.85             
  Assets per employee (in millions) ......  $    2.10   $    2.01    $    1.68    $    1.53   $    1.42             
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 </TABLE>


Popular pertaining to the implementation of strategic initiatives. Also, the
recently acquired operations of Banco Popular, N.A. (California) increased the
headcount of the Corporation by 40 employees. The assets per employee ratio rose
to $2.10 million in 1996 from $2.01 million in 1995. All FTE figures for 1992
through 1996 have been adjusted to include temporary employees.

         Employee benefits, including profit sharing, rose $10.7 million to
$87.3 million in 1996, compared with $76.6 million in 1995. The rise in pension
costs and other fringe benefits was primarily related to increases in medical
plan costs and higher pension and postretirement benefit expenses. Also, an
expense of $1.2 million was incurred by Banco Popular for staff uniforms in
order to emphasize its corporate image at all branches. Furthermore, profit
sharing expense rose $3.7 million, as a result of higher eligible salaries and
stronger profitability ratios at Banco Popular.

         Other operating expenses, excluding personnel costs, totaled $268.7
million for the year ended December 31, 1996, compared with $237.8 million in
1995 and $222.1 million in 1994. Professional fees rose $11.2 million to $46.2
million in 1996, from $35.0 million in 1995, reflecting expenditures for
purchased software associated with systems enhancements and for consulting
services related to the Corporation's strategic initiatives. Also, business
promotion rose $8.4 million as part of the ongoing campaign to promote the use
of electronic services at Banco Popular and the launching of new products and
services.

         Equipment expenses amounted to $48.0 million in 1996, compared with
$41.6 million in 1995, an increase of $6.4 million or 15.3%. This increase was
mostly attributed to the depreciation related with the continued enhancement of
existing products, technological capabilities and delivery channels, such as the
expansion of the electronic payment system and the network of POS terminals. The
Corporation increased its automated banking machine network by 60 ATMs and
installed 4,163 additional POS terminals. Also, operating expenses for the year
were affected by a $1.1 million expense recorded by Banco Popular, FSB, as a
result of the one-time assessment to capitalize the SAIF. Partially offsetting
these increases, was a reduction in the FDIC assessment of $9.8 million,
excluding the one-time assessment, as a result of the decrease in the assessment
rate during the third quarter of 1995, when the Bank Insurance Fund (BIF)
reached its statutory level.



F-12


<PAGE>   31
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INCOME TAX EXPENSE

         On October 31, 1994, the Governor of Puerto Rico signed into law the
Puerto Rico Tax Reform Act of 1994 (the Act). The Act made comprehensive
important changes in several major areas of the tax law. In general, the
provisions of the Act were effective for taxable years beginning after June 30,
1995. Accordingly, most changes of the reform were effective for the Corporation
in 1996. The changes that most significantly affected the Corporation's income
tax expense and liability for 1996, are summarized below:

         -        Reduction in the higher marginal tax rate from 42% to 39%.
         -        Repeal of the reserve method for determining losses on loans.
                  Corporations are now required to use the direct charge-off
                  method and recapture into income, for income tax purposes, the
                  reserve balance at December 31, 1995 over a four-year period.
         -        Increase to 100% the dividend received deduction on dividends
                  received from domestic subsidiaries (previously 85%).

         Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 1996, was $70.9
million compared with $59.8 million in 1995 and $50.0 million in 1994. The
increase in 1996 is primarily due to higher pre-tax earnings by $49.9 million.

         The effective tax rate was 27.7% in 1996, 29.0% in 1995 and 28.6% in
1994. Part of the decrease is directly related to the reduction in Puerto Rico,
the Corporation's principal place of business, of the maximum tax rate from 42%
in 1995 to 39% in 1996. The difference between the effective tax rate and the
maximum tax rate is primarily due to the interest income earned on certain
investments and loans which is exempt from income tax, net of the disallowance
of expenses attributable to the exempt income. For further information
concerning the effective tax rate see Note 22 to the Consolidated Financial
Statements.

         The Corporation uses an asset and liability approach in accounting for
income taxes, as required by SFAS 109. At December 31, 1996, the Corporation's
net deferred tax assets amounted to $64 million, compared with $32 million at
December 31, 1995. Gross deferred tax assets rose from $67 million to $91
million mainly as a result of the recognition of a deferred tax asset of $19
million related with the repeal of the reserve method of accounting for losses
on loans. Other components of gross deferred tax assets are alternative minimum
tax and other credits, postretirement benefits obligations and other temporary
differences mainly arising from the deferral of loan origination costs and
commissions. When necessary, a valuation allowance is recorded for those
deferred tax assets for which the Corporation cannot determine the likelihood of
their realizability. At December 31,1996, the valuation allowance amounted to
$0.6 million compared with $1.8 million at December 31, 1995.

         Gross deferred tax liabilities were $26 million at December 31, 1996,
compared with $33 million at December 31, 1995. The major components of deferred
tax liabilities are differences between assigned values and tax bases of assets
and liabilities recognized in purchase business combinations and other temporary
differences mainly related with unrealized gains on investment securities
available-for-sale.

STATEMENT OF CONDITION ANALYSIS

         The Corporation's total assets at December 31, 1996, reached $16.8
billion, reflecting an increase of $1.1 billion or 6.9% when compared with $15.7
billion at December 31, 1995. Total assets at the end of 1994 amounted to $12.8
billion. Most of the growth in total assets pertains to Banco Popular and Equity
One, which increased $787 million, and $224 million, respectively. Average total
assets for 1996 amounted to $16.3 billion compared with $14.1 billion in 1995
and $12.2 billion in 1994.

EARNING ASSETS

         Earning assets at December 31, 1996, amounted to $15.5 billion,
compared with $14.7 billion at December 31, 1995 and $11.8 billion at December
31, 1994.

         Money market, investment and trading securities totaled $5.7 billion at
December 31, 1996, compared with $6.0 billion at the same date the previous
year. The decrease of $285 million was mainly reflected in investment
securities, which totaled $4.6 billion at the end of 1996, compared with $4.9
billion in 1995. Investment securities held-to-maturity decreased $454 million,
from $1.7 billion in 1995 to $1.2 billion in 1996. Partially offsetting this
reduction, was an increase of $206 million in the investment securities
available-for-sale.



                                                                            F-13
<PAGE>   32
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE H
Loans Ending Balances

                                                        Year ended December 31,
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Dollars in thousands)                                                                                       Five-Year
                                                1996      1995         1994         1993       1992              C.G.R
                                            --------------------------------------------------------------------------
 <S>                                        <C>           <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>             <C>   
 Commercial, industrial and
  agricultural ...........................  $3,822,096    $3,205,031   $2,893,534   $2,369,514  $2,133,357      13.88%
 Construction ............................     200,083       215,835      161,265      153,436     172,411       0.54
 Lease financing .........................     516,001       498,750      448,236      375,693     314,905      15.35
 Mortgage* ...............................   2,576,887     2,403,631    2,177,763    1,576,044     790,802      30.40
 Consumer* ...............................   2,663,961     2,354,237    2,100,531    1,872,235   1,840,578       5.18
                                            --------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Total ..................................  $9,779,028    $8,677,484   $7,781,329   $6,346,922  $5,252,053      13.48%
                                            ==========================================================================
 </TABLE>


*Includes loans held-for-sale.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------



         Money market investments totaled $800 million at December 31, 1996,
compared with $799 million at the same date in 1995. Trading account securities
totaled $292 million at December 31, 1996, compared with $331 million at
December 31, 1995.

         Loans are the single largest category of the Corporation's earning
assets and the most profitable. As shown in Table H, at December 31, 1996, total
loans net of unearned income, were $9.8 billion compared with $8.7 billion at
the end of 1995, for a 12.7% increase. At the same date in 1994 total loans were
$7.8 billion. At the end of 1996, commercial loans represented 39.1% of the
total portfolio, while construction loans were 2.0%, lease financing 5.3%,
mortgage loans 26.4%, and consumer loans comprised 27.2%. This compares with
37.0%, 2.5%, 5.7%, 27.7% and 27.1% at the end of 1995 for the same categories,
respectively.

         The commercial loan portfolio had the largest growth, rising $617
million or 56.0% of the total increase in loans, followed by consumer loans
which increased $310 million and mortgage loans with $173 million for 28.1% and
15.7% of the total increase, respectively. The lease financing portfolio rose
$17 million while the construction loan portfolio decreased $16 million.

         The commercial loan portfolio of Banco Popular had an increase of $489
million, reaching $3.7 billion at the end of 1996, compared with $3.2 billion
reported at December 31, 1995. Through continuous marketing efforts both in
Puerto Rico and in the mainland, the Corporation has increased its commercial
portfolio both in the retail and middle market, while offering a wide variety of
other services. In New York and New Jersey strong emphasis has been placed on
Government guaranteed loans and the small and middle market sectors. Also, the
interest rate scenario that prevailed during 1996 moved customers to borrow
money at more attractive rates. These factors resulted in an increase of
approximately $93 million in the Fortune 500 and corporate loans, $260 million
in the middle market loan portfolio and $264 million in the retail loan
portfolio. CombanCorp, acquired at the end of the third quarter of 1996,
contributed $11 million to the total increase in commercial loans.

         Consumer loans, which include personal, auto and boat, credit cards and
reserve lines grew $310 million, totaling $2.7 billion at December 31, 1996,
compared with $2.4 billion at the end of 1995. The growth in this loan category
was led by an increase of $213 million at Banco Popular, followed by Equity One
with a $61 million increase and Best Finance with $25 million. At the same date
in 1994, consumer loans totaled $2.1 billion. Of the total portfolio of consumer
loans, 41.2% are secured loans of which 19.4% are secured by mortgages and 3.8%
have cash collateral.

         At December 31, 1996, the personal loan portfolio amounted to $1.4
billion, or 52.2% of the total consumer portfolio. This amount compares with
$1.2 billion or 51.9% reported in 1995 for an increase of $170 million or 13.9%.
Specifically at Banco Popular, personal loans rose $99 million to $1.1 billion
for 1996, primarily attributed to loans granted for home improvement purposes
which increased $71 million, from $178 million in 1995 to $249 million in 1996.

         Auto loans, which represented 22.0% of the consumer loan portfolio as
of December 31, 1996, rose $91 million to $587 million in 1996, while the credit
card portfolio rose $49 million to $474 million. The growth in both portfolios
was mainly attained at Banco Popular due to strong marketing efforts coupled
with the launching of new products.


F-14


<PAGE>   33
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         The Corporation had $2.6 billion in mortgage loans, compared with $2.4
billion at the same date in 1995 and $2.2 billion in 1994. Equity One accounted
for $149 million or 86.0% of the increase in mortgage loans. Banco Popular, FSB
increased $41 million and Banco Popular, N.A. (California), acquired at the end
of 1996, contributed $20 million to the increase. On the other hand, Banco
Popular reported a decrease of $37 million for 1996, as a result of the
securitization during the fourth quarter of 1996 of $209 million in conventional
mortgage loans. At December 31, 1996, $201 million of these assets were
classified as securities sold not yet delivered and included as other assets in
the Corporation's Statement of Condition, since they were sold in December 1996,
with settlement date of January 1997.

         The lease financing portfolio amounted to $516 million as of December
31, 1996, compared with $499 million and $448 million as of December 31, 1995
and 1994, respectively. The rise in truck and vehicle sales in Puerto Rico
contributed to the growth in this category.

         Construction loans amounted to $200 million in 1996 from $216 million a
year ago and $161 million in 1994. CombanCorp contributed $3 million to this
loan category.

DEPOSITS AND OTHER INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES

         Total deposits at December 31, 1996, amounted to $10.8 billion compared
with $9.9 billion at December 31, 1995, an increase of $887 million. Most of the
increase was attained at Banco Popular, where total deposits increased $732
million, notwithstanding the decrease of $51 million in its 936 deposits. Also,
CombanCorp contributed $63 million to the increase. Of the Corporation's total
deposits at the end of 1996, 79.8% were in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands
and the remaining 20.2% were in the U.S. mainland. Total deposits as of December
31, 1994, amounted to $9.0 billion.

         Core deposits reached $8.6 billion by the end of 1996, compared with
$7.8 billion a year before. The growth of $775 million resulted from rises of
$195 million in certificates of deposit under $100,000, $203 million in savings
accounts, $309 million in demand deposits, and $68 million in NOW and money
market accounts.

         Borrowings, excluding subordinated notes, increased $80 million,
reaching $4.3 billion at December 31, 1996. Major fluctuations in this category
include an increase of $1.2 billion in notes payable and short-term borrowings
principally at Banco Popular of $846 million and $191 million at BanPonce
Financial. Conversely, federal funds purchased and securities sold under
agreements to repurchase decreased $1.1 billion from December 31, 1995, mainly
due to declines in Banco Popular and BP Capital of $888 million and $318
million, respectively.

         Subordinated notes decreased $50 million to $125 million outstanding at
December 31, 1996. The decrease resulted from the maturity, on June 15, 1996, of
the subordinated notes issued by Banco Popular in 1989. The $125 million in
subordinated notes outstanding were issued by the Corporation on December 12,
1995, with a 6.75% rate and a maturity date of December 15, 2005. The proceeds
obtained from the issuance were utilized to finance the growth and expansion of
the Corporation.

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

         At December 31, 1996, stockholders' equity amounted to $1.26 billion,
an increase of $121 million or 10.6% compared with the balance of $1.14 billion
at the end of 1995. This increase is mainly due to earnings retention. The
Corporation's Dividend Reinvestment and Purchase Plan also contributed to the
increase in stockholders' equity.

         As mentioned in the Overview section, on April 26, 1996, the
Corporation's Board of Directors authorized a two-for-one stock split effected
in the form of a dividend and as a result, $198 million were transferred from
retained earnings to common stock.

         The Corporation had 4,000,000 shares of preferred stock outstanding at
December 31, 1996. These shares are non-convertible and are redeemable at the
option of the Corporation on or after June 30, 1998. Dividends are
non-cumulative and are payable monthly at an annual rate per share of 8.35%
based on the liquidation preference value of $25 per share.



                                                                            F-15
<PAGE>   34
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE I
Capital Adequacy Data


                                                                           As of December 31,
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Dollars in thousands)
                                                  1996            1995           1994           1993           1992
                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>          
Risk-based capital
  Tier I capital ............................. $ 1,121,128    $ 1,003,072    $   953,266    $   786,686    $   722,082
  Supplementary (Tier II) capital ............     246,350        231,091        104,338        106,193        110,704
                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------------
     Total capital ........................... $ 1,367,478    $ 1,234,163    $ 1,057,604    $   892,879    $   832,786
                                               =======================================================================
  Risk-weighted assets                                                                                      
   Balance sheet items ....................... $ 9,368,420    $ 8,175,420    $ 7,219,906    $ 6,150,749    $ 5,430,534
   Off-balance sheet items ...................     275,397        249,529        199,327        250,102        177,172
                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total risk-weighted assets ............. $ 9,643,817    $ 8,424,949    $ 7,419,233    $ 6,400,851    $ 5,607,706
                                               =======================================================================
Ratios:                                                                                                     
   Tier I capital (minimum required - 4.00%) .       11.63%         11.91%         12.85%         12.29%         12.88%
   Total capital (minimum required - 8.00%) ..       14.18          14.65          14.25          13.95          14.85
   Leverage ratio (minimum required - 3.00%) .        6.71           6.66           7.62           6.95           7.26
   Equity to assets ..........................        7.33           7.58           7.57           7.42           7.02
   Tangible equity to assets .................        6.55           6.60           6.55           6.29           5.66
   Equity to loans ...........................       12.97          13.03          13.01          13.91          12.99
   Internal capital generation rate ..........       10.99           9.36           9.48          10.08           9.04
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>




         Regulatory guidelines require a minimum Tier I capital of 4%, total
capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 8% and a leverage ratio of 3%. Banks
and bank holding companies which meet or exceed a Tier I ratio of 6%, a total
capital ratio of 10% and a leverage ratio of 5% are considered well-capitalized
by regulatory standards. At December 31, 1996, the Corporation exceeds those
regulatory risk-based capital requirements for well-capitalized institutions by
wide margins, due to the high level of capital and the conservative nature of
the Corporation's assets. Tier I capital to risk-adjusted assets and total
capital ratios at December 31, 1996, were 11.63% and 14.18%, respectively,
compared with 11.91% and 14.65% at the same date in 1995. The Corporation's
leverage ratio was 6.71% at December 31, 1996, compared with 6.66% for the
previous year. Table I shows capital adequacy information for the current and
previous four years.

         Intangible assets were $131 million at December 31, 1996, compared
with $143 million at the end of 1995. Total intangibles consisted of $55
million in core deposit intangibles, $46 million in goodwill, $26 million in
mortgage servicing rights and $4 million in other intangibles. At the end of
1995, core deposit intangibles were $66 million, goodwill totaled $46 million,
mortgage servicing rights were $24 million and other intangibles were $7
million. The average tangible equity increased to $1.06 billion for the year
ended December 31, 1996, from $922 million a year before, an increase of $138
million or 15.0%. Total tangible equity at December 31, 1996, was $1.13 billion
compared with $999 million at December 31, 1995. The tangible equity to assets
ratio for 1996 was 6.55% compared with 6.60% in 1995.
         
         Book value per common share increased to $17.59 at December 31, 1996,
compared with $15.81 at year-end 1995. The market value of the Corporation's
common stock at the end of 1996, was $33.75 compared with $19.38 a year
earlier. The total market capitalization was $2.23 billion, compared with $1.28
billion as of December 31, 1995.

         The Corporation's stock is traded on the National Association of
Securities Dealers Automated Quotation (NASDAQ) National Market System under
the symbol BPOP. Table J shows the range of market quotations and cash
dividends declared for each quarter during the last five years. The preferred
stock of the Corporation is also traded on the NASDAQ National Market System
under the symbol BPOPP. Its market value at December 31, 1996 and 1995 was
$26.25 and $27.25 per share, respectively.

         The Corporation has a Dividend Reinvestment Plan for its stockholders.
This plan offers the stockholders the opportunity to automatically reinvest
their dividends in shares of common stock at a 5% discount from the average
market price at the time of issuance. During 1996, 191,235 shares, equivalent
to $4.1 million in additional capital, were issued under the plan. A total of
1,542,463 shares have been issued under this plan since its inception in 1989,
contributing $19.9 million in additional capital.

         Dividends declared on common stock during 1996 amounted to $46
million, compared with $38 million in 1995. The Corporation increased its
quarterly dividend from $0.15 to $0.18 per common share, a 20% increase,
effective on July 1, 1996. Total



F-16
<PAGE>   35



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE J

Common Stock Performance
                                                          Cash       Book
                                    Market Price        Dividends    Value     Dividend                     Price/    Market/
                                    ------------         Declared     Per       Payout      Dividend       Earnings    Book
                                High            Low     Per Share    Share      Ratio        Yield *        Ratio      Ratio
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                   <C>              <C>              <C>          <C>       <C>             <C>          <C>          <C>
       1996                                                          $17.59    24.63%          2.65%        12.59x       191.87%
1ST QUARTER........   $   23 1/8   $   19 3/8           $.15                
2ND QUARTER........       23 6/7       21 7/8            .18                
3RD QUARTER........       27 3/4       22 5/8            .18                
4TH QUARTER........       35           25 7/8            .18                
                                                                    
        1995                                                          15.81    26.21           3.15          9.24        122.55
1st quarter........   $   15 7/8   $   14 1/16          $.13                
2nd quarter........       17 3/4       15 5/8            .15                
3rd quarter........       19 1/2       17 3/4            .15                
4th quarter........       19 15/16     19 1/16           .15                
                                                                    
        1994                                                          13.74    27.20           3.18          7.66        102.37
1st quarter........   $   16 1/4   $   15 3/8           $.12                
2nd quarter........       16 3/8       15 1/2            .12        
3rd quarter........       16 5/8       15 3/4            .13                
4th quarter........       16 1/2       13 1/2            .13                
                                                                    
        1993                                                          12.75    25.39           2.97          9.42        123.58
1st quarter........   $   15 5/8   $   13 1/4           $.10                
2nd quarter........       14 1/8       12 3/16           .10        
3rd quarter........       15 1/8       13 1/4            .12                
4th quarter........       16 1/8       14 7/8            .13                
                                                                    
        1992                                                          11.52    28.33           3.12         10.83        131.35 
                                                                               
1st quarter........   $   12 3/4   $    9 3/8           $.10
2nd quarter........       13 7/8       12                .10
3rd quarter........       13 7/8       12 1/4            .10
4th quarter........       15 1/8       12 1/4            .10
</TABLE>                            



*Based on the average high and low market price for the four quarters.
 Note: All per share data has been adjusted to reflect the stock split
 effected in the form of a dividend on July 1, 1996.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

dividends declared per common share for 1996 were $0.69 compared with $0.58 in
1995 and $0.50 in 1994. The dividend payout ratio to common stockholders for
the year was 24.63% compared with 26.21% in 1995. Dividends declared on the
preferred stock amounted to $8.4 million in 1996 and 1995.

RISK MANAGEMENT

         The Corporation has established a combined approach in managing its
balance sheet which includes management of interest rate, liquidity and credit
risks.

INTEREST RATE RISK

         The Corporation's net interest income is affected by a variety of
factors including interest rate volatility, the spread between different market
rates or basis risk, timing differences between the maturity and repricing of
assets and liabilities, as well as the sensitivity of their rates to market
interest rates. Interest rate risk refers to the probability of a reduction in
earnings due to fluctuations in interest rates. It is a priority for the
Corporation's management to monitor continuously the degree of interest rate
risk assumed, and to ensure that it remains within an acceptable range.

         The Asset/Liability Management Committee (ALCO) is primarily
responsible for implementing interest rate risk policies and strategies
approved by the Board of Directors. The Board sets overall policies regarding
the management of interest rate risk and oversees the implementation of those
policies by the ALCO. The main strategic objective of the Corporation's
interest rate risk management is to protect the level and stability of net
interest income from interest rate volatility. Nevertheless, the ALCO may
decide occasionally to position the Corporation in order to benefit from
anticipated changes in interest rates. Such positions are



                                                                        F-17
<PAGE>   36

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

maintained for relatively short periods and are structured so they can be
unwound quickly in the case of adverse market movements. The ALCO is composed of
senior officers of the Corporation and meets monthly.

         Interest rate risk is managed by the Corporation using various
techniques including beta-adjusted gap analysis, simulations and duration
analysis. Gap analysis presents the difference in repricing volumes between
earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities during future time periods. The
projected repricing balances of earning assets are adjusted for expected
prepayments of securities and loans, while the repricing balances of deposits
are adjusted for the sensitivity of their rates to market interest rates. The
prepayment rates of securities and loans are estimated based upon historical
experience and estimates prepared by major securities dealers. The elasticity
of deposit rates is estimated based on the application of statistical
techniques to the relationship between the deposit rates and LIBOR during a
two-year period. The resulting beta factors are then used to restate the static
gaps in terms of repricing dollars, all with a similar sensitivity to LIBOR.
Tactical, short-term positions are measured by the gap positions within one
year, while structural, longer term positions are expressed by the gap
positions beyond one year. The magnitude of these positions is maintained
within parameters approved by the ALCO, with the objective of protecting the
net interest margin from market volatility.

         The results of the beta-adjusted gap analysis, together with risk
management strategies, are validated using simulation analysis under various
market scenarios. Simulation analysis also permits the ALCO to include in its
assessment the effect of the Corporation's business plans on future interest
rate risk. The ALCO uses an "earnings at risk" concept to monitor and help
control the projected volatility of twelve-month projected earnings. The
simulation runs incorporate anticipated balance sheet changes including asset
and liability runoffs, reinvestments and various interest rate scenarios,
including both rising and declining, to ensure that a wide array of possible
market movements are tested.

         Duration analysis is an additional tool increasingly used to measure
and monitor the longer term, structural interest rate risk being assumed by the
Corporation. Duration analysis quantifies the sensitivity of the market value
of the Corporation's earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities to changes
in interest rates. The focus of this technique is on economic value, as opposed
to gap analysis which is based upon the book value of assets and liabilities
repricing in future periods, and simulation analysis which concentrates on the
impact of interest rate volatility on earnings. Duration analysis is gaining
acceptance among leading commercial banks, investors and regulators as one of
the best methods of assessing longer term interest rate risk. By taking into
consideration all projected future cash flows and adjusting them for their
present value, it avoids a primary weakness of both gap and simulation
analysis. The ALCO uses duration analysis as an additional tool for managing
interest rate risk, together with gap analysis and simulation runs. These
techniques have different strengths and weaknesses, and all three are used
together in the process of managing interest rate risk in a complementary
manner.

         Interest rates in general declined toward the end of 1995 and the
beginning of 1996. However, in February rates started rising due to increasing
evidence of a rebound in the U.S. economy, and continued an upward trajectory
until mid-summer. The actual growth rate of gross domestic product for the
first two quarters of the year did confirm that the economy was staging a
rebound from the sluggish growth of late 1995. At the same time, market rates
rose as the financial markets started pricing with the increasing probability
of a tighter monetary policy in the near-term future.

         The Corporation positioned the balance sheet during the year to
benefit slightly from a rising interest rate scenario. Even though the Federal
Reserve did not tighten monetary policy in 1996, as the market at times
expected, interest rates finished the year substantially higher than at the end
of the previous year. The Corporation's net interest margin, on a taxable
equivalent basis, benefitted from the general increase in rates during 1996,
increasing by 3 basis points during the year. Table K presents the
Corporation's gap position at the end of 1996.

         As of December 31, 1996, the Corporation had $1.0 billion in
mortgage-backed securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations
(CMOs). CMOs amounted to $593 million or 58.3% of the mortgage-backed
securities portfolio at that date. The portfolio had an estimated average life
of 9.1 years and an estimated average yield to maturity of 6.26%. The average
life and yield to maturity of the mortgage-backed securities portfolio, is
affected partially by the level of prepayments of the underlying mortgage
loans. The portfolio includes securities which represent an interest in pools
of mortgage loan as well as obligations (CMOs) collateralized by such
securities. In most cases, the debtor of the underlying loan has the option of
repaying the principal balance owed at any time.




F-18
<PAGE>   37
TABLE K
Interest Rate Sensitivity


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            As of December 31, 1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                              By Repricing Dates 
                                          ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       After        After       
                                                         Within    three months   six months              Non-interest
                                              0-30        31-90     but within    but within  After one      bearing
(Dollars in thousands)                        days        days      six months     one year      year         funds         Total
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                       <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>           <C>          <C>      
Assets:                                                                                                                            
Federal funds sold and                                                                                                             
 securities purchased under                                                                                                        
 agreements to resell .................   $  499,664   $  278,933                                                       $   778,597
Short-term interest bearing                                                                                                        
 deposits in other banks ..............       21,480          100   $       99                                               21,679
Investment and trading securities .....      978,909      247,891      688,963   $  798,963  $2,190,424                   4,905,150
Loans .................................    2,619,548      362,956      347,537      674,191   5,774,796                   9,779,028
Other assets ..........................      200,817                                                       $1,078,832     1,279,649
                                          -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total ...........................    4,320,418      889,880    1,036,599    1,473,154   7,965,220     1,078,832    16,764,103
                                          -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liabilities and stockholders' equity:                                                                                               
Savings, NOW and money market                                                                                                      
  accounts ............................      619,417                                          3,755,486                   4,374,903
Other time deposits ...................    1,622,966      734,970      573,031      404,590     722,111                   4,057,668
Federal funds purchased and securities                                                                                             
  sold under agreements to repurchase .    1,404,225      230,240       30,000                  211,000                   1,875,465
Other short-term borrowings ...........      767,398      363,008      111,466      162,134                               1,404,006
Notes payable .........................      104,449      243,000                               639,264                     986,713
Senior debentures .....................       30,000                                                                         30,000
Subordinated notes ....................                                                         125,000                     125,000
Non-interest bearing deposits .........                                                                     2,330,704     2,330,704
Other non-interest bearing liabilities                                                                        317,112       317,112
Stockholders' equity ..................                                                                     1,262,532     1,262,532
                                          -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Total ............................    4,548,455    1,571,218      714,497      566,724   5,452,861    $3,910,348   $16,764,103
                                          -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Off-balance sheet financial instruments       25,000       25,000      (20,000)                 (30,000)                          
Interest rate sensitive gap ...........   $ (203,037)  $ (656,338)  $  302,102   $  906,430  $2,482,359                           
Cumulative interest rate                                                                                                           
  sensitivity gap .....................   $ (203,037)  $ (859,375)  $ (557,273)  $  349,157  $2,831,516                           
Cumulative sensitive gap to                                                                                                        
  earning assets ......................        (1.29)%      (5.48)%      (3.55)%       2.23%      18.05%                          
</TABLE>


         A decrease in the general level of interest rates usually results in a
higher level of prepayments of mortgage loans, while an increase would tend to
reduce the level of prepayments. The yield to maturity (YTM) of mortgage-backed
securities may also be affected by a change in prepayment rates. Mortgage-backed
security portfolios with an aggregate unamortized premium may have a decrease in
their yield to maturity in an environment of increasing prepayment speed,
whereas the YTM may increase in an environment of decreasing prepayment speed.
The opposite is true in the case of portfolios with aggregate discounts. The
mortgage-backed securities portfolio of the Corporation had an aggregate premium
of $2 million, as of December 31, 1996.

         The use of derivative products, such as interest rate swaps, is very
limited but, they are also used by the Corporation as a tool to manage interest
rate risk. At December 31, 1996, the notional amount of these off-balance sheet
items was $162 million of which $140 million were interest rate swaps. These
amounts compare with $136 million and $125 million, respectively, at the end of
1995.

LIQUIDITY RISK

         Liquidity risk refers to the possibility of not being able to access
the funds needed for the Corporation's business activities. The objective of the
Corporation's liquidity management is to ensure sufficient cash flow to fund the
origination and acquisition


                                                                           F-19
<PAGE>   38
TABLE L
Maturity Distribution of Earning Assets


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         As of December 31, 1996
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                               Maturities
                                                        ------------------------------------------------------
                                                             After one year
                                                           through five years           After five years
                                                        ------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Fixed       Variable      Fixed     Variable
                                              One year      interest     interest    interest    interest
(In thousands)                                or less        rates        rates        rates       rates          Total
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                         <C>           <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>           <C>       
 Money market securities .................  $  800,276                                                        $   800,276
 Investment and trading
   securities ............................   2,280,709    $1,749,229   $  268,642   $  502,356  $   30,163      4,831,099
 Loans:
   Commercial ............................   1,627,798       787,620      585,046      361,486     460,146      3,822,096
   Construction ..........................     150,473        32,049        5,431        3,504       8,626        200,083
   Lease financing .......................     166,945       343,897                     5,159                    516,001
   Consumer ..............................     949,218     1,513,515                   201,228                  2,663,961
   Mortgage ..............................     283,148       601,480        2,132    1,683,683       6,444      2,576,887
                                            ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total .................................  $6,258,567    $5,027,790   $  861,251   $2,757,416  $  505,379    $15,410,403
                                            ==============================================================================
</TABLE>


Note: Federal Reserve Bank stock, Federal Home Loan Bank stock, and other equity
securities held by the Corporation are not included in this table.



of assets, the repayment of deposit withdrawals and wholesale borrowings
maturities, and meet operating expenses. In general, there is an opportunity
cost involved in maintaining excessive amounts of liquidity. Therefore, one
objective of the Corporation's management is to ensure that adequate funds are
available to meet all foreseeable obligations and at the same time provide a
reasonable cushion for unexpected contingencies, while avoiding excessive
liquidity.

         Liquidity is monitored and managed at both the parent company level and
the subsidiaries level. The parent company depends primarily on the issuance of
commercial paper, medium-term obligations and common and preferred stock for
financing the operations of its non-banking subsidiaries, while the banking
subsidiaries obtain most of their financing from retail deposits and wholesale
borrowings.

         The Corporation's assets and liabilities represent a source of
substantial liquidity. The investment portfolio has a relatively short duration
and consists primarily of securities issued by the U.S. Treasury and Agencies,
while the loan portfolio is relatively short-term. Funding sources include a
large, stable base of retail deposits which is complemented by wholesale
borrowings from various sources in the U.S. money markets.

         The investment portfolio is the major source of liquidity among the
Corporation's assets. As of December 31, 1996, the investment securities
portfolio totaled $4.6 billion, with an average maturity of 3.3 years. Cash and
money market instruments amounted to $1.3 billion, while U.S. Treasury and
Agency obligations totaled $3.3 billion, or 71.6% of the total portfolio with an
average maturity of 1.5 years. Securities classified as available-for-sale
amounted to $3.4 billion or 74.1% of the total portfolio, with a net unrealized
gain of $3.2 million. This portfolio can be sold in the secondary markets with
minimal transaction costs and can be financed in the money markets at
competitive rates.

         The loan portfolio as of December 31, 1996, amounted to $9.8 billion,
of which $3.2 billion or 32.5% mature within one year. The repayments of
principal and interest from the portfolio provide a stable source of cash flow
to the Corporation. Table L presents a maturity distribution of the
Corporation's earning assets as of December 31, 1996.

         The operations of the Corporation are funded primarily by the deposit
base of its banking subsidiaries. The sources of these deposits have become more
diversified as the Corporation's banking operations in the continental United
States have expanded. This source of funds is usually less volatile than
institutional borrowings and its cost is less sensitive to changes in market
rates. The deposit base includes consumer and commercial demand deposits,
savings accounts and time deposits in denominations below $100,000. The
Corporation's extensive retail network and leadership in electronic banking have
resulted in a significant

F-20
<PAGE>   39
TABLE M
Average Total Deposits

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                             For the Year
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                             Five-Year
(In thousands)                                  1996         1995          1994         1993        1992       C.G.R.
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                        <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>              <C>  
 Private demand .......................... $ 1,726,596    $1,571,405   $1,515,158   $1,396,339  $1,265,230       7.43%
 Public demand ...........................     321,249       268,317      273,565      235,323     201,218      13.21
 Other non-interest bearing accounts .....       5,910         5,983        6,967        3,678       3,807       6.83
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Non-interest bearing ................   2,053,755     1,845,705    1,795,690    1,635,340   1,470,255       8.22
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Savings accounts ........................   3,095,898     2,913,380    2,839,300    2,492,845   2,044,037      13.69
 NOW and money market accounts ...........   1,148,727     1,102,593    1,133,106    1,078,075     955,654       8.39
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Savings deposits ....................   4,244,625     4,015,973    3,972,406    3,570,920   2,999,691      12.10
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Certificates of deposit:
   Under $100,000 ........................   1,307,323     1,281,873    1,160,063    1,143,624   1,171,242       1.65
   $100,000 and over .....................   1,371,928     1,034,195      590,305      498,093     511,585      16.73
   936 ...................................   1,020,064       999,384    1,007,147    1,029,450   1,202,604      (4.14)
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

     Certificates of deposit .............   3,699,315     3,315,452    2,757,515    2,671,167   2,885,431       3.61
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Public time .............................     238,377       175,706      177,534      124,629     155,715       5.66
 Other time ..............................     225,724       229,315      134,081      122,829     130,031      10.37
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Other time deposits .................     464,101       405,021      311,615      247,458     285,746       7.80
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Interest bearing ....................   8,408,041     7,736,446    7,041,536    6,489,545   6,170,868       7.65
                                           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Total ............................ $10,461,796    $9,582,151   $8,837,226   $8,124,885  $7,641,123       7.76%
                                           ===========================================================================
</TABLE>


share of retail deposits in its principal markets. As of December 31, 1996, core
deposits amounted to $8.6 billion or 79.8% of total deposits, an increase of
$775 million or 9.9% from the previous year. As set forth in Table M, on
average, total deposits increased $880 million while core deposits rose $462
million. The size of the Corporation's core deposits located in continental U.S.
markets reached $1.9 billion as of December 31, 1996, compared with $1.6 billion
at the end of 1995. Certificates of deposit with denominations of $100,000 and
over as of December 31, 1996, totaled $2.2 billion, or 20.2% of total deposits.
Their distribution by maturity was as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               (In thousands)
 <S>                                             <C>       
 3 months or less ................               $1,641,485
 3 to 6 months ...................                  176,157
 6 to 12 months ..................                  109,154
 over 12 months ..................                  246,777
                                                 ----------           
                                                 $2,173,573
                                                 ==========
</TABLE>



         The Corporation is continuously developing broader sources of financing
for its operations. In addition to retail deposits, wholesale borrowings from
institutional investors in the U.S. money markets represent an increasingly
important source of financing. The latter have become more appealing due to the
recent tax reform that repealed the withholding tax in Puerto Rico on interest
paid to non-residents of the Island. Previously, payments made from Puerto Rico
were subject to a 29% withholding tax. Other borrowings consist primarily of
federal funds purchased, repurchase agreements and commercial paper sold.
Federal funds purchased have maturities of 30 days or less while repurchase
agreements generally mature within three months. Commercial paper is issued with
maturities that do not exceed 270 days. As of December 31, 1996, federal funds
purchased, securities sold under agreements to repurchase and other short-term
borrowings amounted to $3.3 billion, a decrease of $176 million when compared
with the same date a year before.

         Intermediate and long-term debt is another source of liquidity. To
obtain longer term financing for its operations, the Corporation issued $424
million in medium-term notes during 1996. For further information on the
maturities of intermediate and long-term debt issued, please refer to notes 12
through 15 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.


                                                                            F-21
<PAGE>   40
         During 1996, the Corporation's main subsidiary, Banco Popular, began a
Bank Note program permitting the issuance of a maximum of $600 million in senior
debt securities with maturities of up to 15 years. This program expands the
ability of the Corporation to raise long-term funding in the U.S. capital
markets and further diversifies its sources of liquidity, at a time when 936
funds are expected to decrease more rapidly.

         The Corporation deposit base includes 936 deposits, which amounted to
$874 million as of December 31, 1996, or 8.1% of total deposits. In addition,
936 borrowings including repurchase agreements were $1.3 billion, or 8.7% of
total liabilities. The Corporation's total financing from 936 sources, including
both deposits and borrowings, totaled $2.2 billion or 14.3% of total liabilities
as of December 31, 1996. At the end of 1995 these funds totaled $2.3 billion or
15.7% of total liabilities.

         During 1996, the United States Congress approved legislation which
increased the federal minimum wage and repealed Section 936 of the Internal
Revenue Code. For the last 20 years, the 936 Section has granted U.S.
Corporations operating in Puerto Rico (936 Corporations) a tax credit against
its federal tax liability for the net revenues derived from both qualifying
active business and certain passive investments held in Puerto Rico banks, known
as Qualified Possession Source Investment Income (QPSII). The tax benefits of
the Section applicable to actively earned income will be phased-out over a
ten-year period, after which they will expire completely. However, the tax
credit on passive earned income, which includes the interest earned by 936
Corporations on investments in financial assets issued in Puerto Rico, was
repealed retroactively for fiscal years commencing after December 31, 1995.
During the ten-year phase-out period, the tax benefits of actively earned income
will be available only to existing operations in Puerto Rico, but they cannot be
extended to new companies or new product lines by existing companies. Financial
institutions and other eligible borrowers in Puerto Rico have benefitted from
the low cost of these funds, although having to comply with certain investment
requirements imposed by local regulations.

         The Corporation's management believes that the main effect of the
repeal of Section 936 on the pool of 936 funds in Puerto Rico will be to reduce
substantially the supply of funds within a short period of time. Therefore, it
is expected that the Corporation's volume of 936 funds should decrease
considerably in the near term. Management believes this should not have a
material effect on the Corporation's liquidity. During some time before the
actual repeal of the Section, the Corporation took actions to increase the
sources and availability of financing in the U.S. money and capital markets.
Substantial amounts of credit lines have been developed in the U.S. money
markets which complement the $600 million Bank Note program and $400 million in
credit lines available at the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, of which the
Corporation is a member. In addition, the Corporation has outstanding $218
million of a $1.0 billion shelf registration with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, which permits the issuance of unsecured debt securities or shares of
preferred stock. Management is confident that the Corporation has sufficient
sources of liquidity to repay on short notice the entire balance of 936 funds
maturing within one year, which amounted to $1.4 billion, or 61.1% of the total
balance of 936 deposits and borrowings as of December 31, 1996. During 1996,
over $440 million in short-term 936 funds were converted into long-term
obligations with an average maturity of 6.7 years.

         In July 1996, Moody's Investors Service raised its rating of long-term
unsecured debt issued by the Corporation and its second tier subsidiary,
BanPonce Financial to A3. The rating of subordinated debt was upgraded to Baa1.
BanPonce's certificate of deposit issuer rating by Thomson BankWatch is B.

CREDIT RISK MANAGEMENT AND LOAN QUALITY

         One of the Corporation's primary risk exposure is its credit risk,
which represents the possibility of loss from a borrower's failure to perform
according to the terms of a transaction. The Corporation controls and monitors
this risk with policies, procedures and various levels of managerial
involvement.

         The strategies utilized to manage credit risk begin with the adherence
to policies and procedures established for the initial underwriting of the
credit portfolio, followed by the ongoing monitoring of the portfolio, including
the early identification of potential problems and their resolution. Also, the
Corporation continues emphasizing the skills and experience of the credit staff
and improving the processing technology. Furthermore, the Corporation has an
independent Credit Review and Audit Division, which performs ongoing independent
reviews of specific loans for credit quality, proper documentation and risk
management purposes. This division is centralized and independent of the lending
function. It also manages the credit rating system and tests the adequacy of the
allowance for loan losses in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles (GAAP) and regulatory standards.


F-22
<PAGE>   41
         Credit extensions are approved by credit officers of the respective
lending departments. The number and level of officers approval depend on the
dollar amount and risk characteristics of the credit facility. The Corporation
receives collateral to support credit extensions and commitments, whenever it is
considered necessary. The amount of collateral obtained is based on the credit
assessment of the customer, and may include real or personal property, accounts
receivable, inventory and cash on deposit.

         The Corporation's credit risk at December 31, 1996, was concentrated in
its $9.8 billion loan portfolio, which represented 63.2% of earning assets. The
loan portfolio is well-balanced as the Corporation's credit policies and
procedures emphasize diversification among geographical areas, business and
industry groups, to minimize the adverse impact of any single event or set of
occurrences. The credit risk exposure is spread among individual consumers,
small commercial loans and a diverse base of borrowers engaged in a wide variety
of businesses.

         The Corporation has over 840,000 consumer loans and over 49,000
commercial lending relationships. Only 43 of these relationships have loans
outstanding over $10 million. Highly leveraged transactions and credit
facilities to finance speculative real estate ventures are minimal and there are
no LDC loans.

         The following risk concentration categories existed at year-end. Only
those concentrations with portfolio totals in excess of the Corporation's
stockholders' equity are presented.

         Geographic Risk - The asset composition of the Corporation by
geographical area at December 31, 1996 and 1995, is presented in the following
table.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           1996                                    1995
                                                        (Dollars in thousands)
                               ----------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                            <C>                   <C>             <C>                  <C>  
 Puerto Rico                   $12,386,136           73.9%           $11,833,155          75.5%
 United States                   3,756,526           22.4              3,253,791          20.7
 U.S. and British Virgin
   Islands and Latin America       621,441            3.7                588,505           3.8
                               ---------------------------------------------------------------
                               $16,764,103          100.0%           $15,675,451         100.0%
                               ===============================================================
</TABLE>


         Included in total assets of Puerto Rico are investments in obligations
of the U.S. Treasury and U.S. Government agencies amounting to $2.9 billion and
$3.4 billion in 1996 and 1995, respectively.

         Banco Popular, the Corporation's largest subsidiary, operates 178
branches in Puerto Rico, 29 in New York, seven in the U.S. Virgin Islands and
one in the British Virgin Islands. Puerto Rico's economic outlook is generally
similar to that of the mainland, and the Government of the Island and its
instrumentalities are all investment-grade rated borrowers in the United States
capital markets. As further discussed in the Liquidity Risk section of this
financial review, in August 1996, the U.S. Congress approved legislation that
repealed Section 936 of the Internal Revenue Code. The bill approved repealed
the QPSII credit retroactively for taxable years beginning after December 31,
1995, while the income and wage credits will be phased-out over 10 years. No
significant changes are anticipated on the general economic conditions of Puerto
Rico, as a result of the enactment of this law. Meanwhile, the Corporation
continues diversifying its geographical risk. During 1996, the Corporation
acquired all the common stock of CombanCorp, the bank holding company of the
former Commerce National Bank, located in California. This banking operation
added to the Corporation three branches, $75 million in assets and $63 million
in deposits. Other geographic expansions during 1996, include the first
international investment made in March 1996, with the purchase of 20% of the
common stock of Jamaica's fourth largest financial institution, Citizens Bank,
and other investments in Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic to establish ATM
networks in those countries. Equity One, the Corporation's mortgage and consumer
finance operation in the mainland, had 102 branches in 28 states and $1.1
billion in total assets at December 31, 1996.


                                                                            F-23

<PAGE>   42
The following table presents the net income for 1996 and total assets as of
December 31, 1996, by subsidiary:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Dollars in thousands)                 Net Income       % Net Income    Total Assets    % Total Assets
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>                  <C>         <C>                <C>
 Banco Popular                        $   150,366           81.21%     $13,336,855         79.56%
 Equity One, Inc.                          12,637            6.83        1,072,655          6.40
 Popular Leasing                            6,127            3.31          429,950          2.56
 Banco Popular, Illinois                    1,797            0.97          467,546          2.79
 BP Capital Markets                         3,349            1.81          693,219          4.14
 VELCO                                        649            0.35          136,250          0.81
 Popular Consumer                           3,101            1.67          115,918          0.69
 Banco Popular, FSB                          (107)          (0.06)         317,084          1.89
 Popular Mortgage                             574            0.31          154,806          0.92
 Banco Popular, N.A. (California)             292            0.16          139,504          0.83
 Parent Company, other subsidiaries
   and eliminations                         6,365            3.44          (99,684)        (0.59)
                                      --------------------------------------------------------------
                  Total               $   185,150          100.00%     $16,764,103        100.00%
                                      ==============================================================
</TABLE>


         Consumer Credit Risk - Consumer credit risk arises from exposures to
credit card receivables, home mortgages, personal loans and other installment
credit facilities. At December 31, 1996, consumer and residential mortgage loans
amounted to $2.7 billion and $2.6 billion, respectively, with $916 million in
unused credits card lines. At December 31, 1996, the secured consumer loan
portfolio was $1.1 billion or 41.2% of the total consumer portfolio.

         Industry Risk - Total commercial loans, including commercial real
estate and construction loans, amounted to $4.0 billion at year-end. The
Corporation's strategy to emphasize the use of collateral has resulted in a
secured commercial and construction loan portfolio comprised of approximately
$1.2 billion, or 30.1% of the commercial and construction loan portfolios. These
loans are secured by real estate, consisting primarily of residential,
owner-occupied and income producing properties. Furthermore, commercial and
construction loans secured by cash collateral totaled $94 million, or 2.4% of
the commercial and construction portfolio at the end of 1996. Also, at year-end
the Corporation had $1.4 billion in unused commitments under lines of credit to
commercial, industrial and agricultural concerns. Commercial and standby letters
of credit totaled $138 million at December 31, 1996. There are no significant
concentrations in any one industry with a substantial portion of the customers
having credit needs of less than $100,000.

         Government Risk - As of December 31, 1996, $3.3 billion of the
investments securities represented exposure to the U.S. Government in the form
of U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government agencies and
corporations. In addition, $84 million of residential mortgages and $301 million
in commercial loans were insured or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its
agencies. The Corporation is one of the largest SBA lenders in the United
States. Furthermore, there were $151 million of investment securities
representing obligations of the Puerto Rico Government and political
subdivisions thereof, $67 million of loans issued to or guaranteed by these same
entities and $27 million of loans issued to or guaranteed by the U.S. Virgin
Islands' Government.

NON-PERFORMING ASSETS

         As of December 31, 1996, non-performing assets, which consist of
past-due loans on which no interest income is being accrued, renegotiated loans
and other real estate, amounted to $155 million or 1.58% of loans, compared with
$155 million or 1.79% of total loans and $108 million or 1.38% of total loans at
the end of 1995 and 1994, respectively. Non-performing loans at December 31,
1996, totaled $145 million or 1.49% of loans as compared with $144 million or
1.67% a year earlier. As of December 31, 1994, non-performing loans were $94
million or 1.21% of loans.

         As Table N presents, the slight decrease in non-performing assets is
principally due to lower non-performing commercial including construction loans,
and lease financings, tempered by a rise in non-performing mortgage and consumer
loans. The reduction in non-performing commercial loans was primarily due to
continued collection efforts and prudent management of the


F-24
<PAGE>   43
TABLE N
Non-Performing Assets

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               As of December 31,
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Dollars in thousands)                         1996         1995        1994        1993         1992
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                         <C>          <C>         <C>         <C>          <C>  
Commercial, industrial and
   agricultural ......................      $ 81,534     $ 87,250    $ 53,553    $ 49,517     $ 62,662
 Construction ........................         2,000        4,733       7,994       8,215        8,798
 Lease financing .....................         1,599        5,606       4,027       4,429        4,752
 Mortgage ............................        43,955       32,066      16,510      14,363       11,532
 Consumer ............................        16,320       14,827      12,179      16,290       20,597
 Renegotiated accruing loans .........         3,308        2,742       2,982       5,643        8,380
 Other real estate ...................         6,076        7,807      10,390      12,699       15,582
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
   Total .............................      $154,792     $155,031    $107,635    $111,156     $132,303
                                            ===========================================================

 Accruing loans past-due
   90 days or more ...................      $ 12,270     $ 11,660    $ 15,012    $ 15,505     $ 23,957
                                            ===========================================================
 Non-performing assets to loans ......          1.58%        1.79%       1.38%       1.75%        2.52%
 Non-performing assets to assets .....          0.92         0.99        0.84        0.97         1.32
 Interest lost .......................      $  7,696     $  7,135    $  5,441    $  4,992     $  7,548
</TABLE>

Note:    The Corporation's policy is to place commercial and construction loans
         on non-accrual status if payments of principal or interest are past-due
         60 days or more. Lease financing receivables and conventional
         residential mortgage loans are placed on non-accrual status if payments
         are delinquent 90 days or more. Closed-end consumer loans are placed on
         non-accrual when they become 90 days or more past-due and are
         charged-off when they are 120 days past-due. Open-end consumer loans
         are not placed on non-accrual status and are charged-off when they are
         180 days past-due. Loans past-due 90 days or more and still accruing
         are not considered as non-performing loans.



non-performing portfolio. The more aggressive charge-off policy implemented in
1996 by the Corporation's leasing subsidiaries, caused a reduction in the amount
of non-performing lease financings. Before 1996, charge-offs on the lease
financing portfolio were recorded at the time the unit was repossessed based on
the excess of the lease financing balance over the assessed value of the unit.
Currently, charge-offs are recorded when the lease financing is 120 days
past-due based on the full amount of the outstanding loan balance, and a
recovery is recorded when the unit is repossessed.

         On the other hand, Equity One reflected an increase of $14.6 million in
non-performing mortgage loans as a result of the record-breaking level of
personal bankruptcies in the U.S. mainland and the growth in its portfolio.
Partially offsetting this increase was a reduction of $3.0 million in
non-performing mortgage loans at Banco Popular.

         The Corporation reports its non-performing assets on a more
conservative basis than most U.S. banks. The Corporation's policy is to place
commercial loans on non-accrual status if payments of principal or interest are
delinquent 60 days rather than the standard industry practice of 90 days.
Financing leases, conventional mortgages and close-end consumer loans are placed
on non-accrual status if payments are delinquent 90 days. Closed-end consumer
loans are charged-off when payments are delinquent 120 days. Open-end (revolving
credit) consumer loans are charged-off if payments are delinquent 180 days.
Certain loans which would be treated as non-accrual loans pursuant to the
foregoing policy, are treated as accruing loans if they are considered
well-secured and in the process of collection. Under the standard industry
practice, closed-end consumer loans are charged-off when delinquent 120 days,
but these consumer loans are not customarily placed on non-accrual status prior
to being charged-off.

         Assuming the standard industry practice of placing commercial loans on
non-accrual status when payments of principal or interest are past due 90 days
or more and excluding the closed-end consumer loans from non-accruing, the
Corporation's non-performing assets at December 31, 1996, would have been $117
million or 1.19% of loans, and the allowance for loan losses would have been
158.95% of non-performing assets. At December 31, 1995 and 1994, adjusted
non-performing assets would have been $121 million or 1.39% of loans and $78
million or 1.01% of loans, respectively. The allowance for loan losses as a
percentage of non-performing assets as of December 31, 1995 and 1994, would have
been 139.60% and 196.63%, respectively.

         Accruing loans that are contractually past-due 90 days or more as to
principal or interest, but are well-secured and in the process of collection as
of December 31, 1996, amounted to $12 million as compared with $12 million in
1995 and $15 million in 1994.


                                                                            F-25
<PAGE>   44
         Once a loan is placed in non-accrual status the interest previously
accrued and uncollected is charged against current earnings and thereafter,
income is recorded only to the extent of any interest collected. The interest
income that would have been realized had these loans been performing in
accordance with their original terms amounted to $7.7 million for 1996, compared
with $7.1 million for 1995 and $5.4 million in 1994.

ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

         The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level sufficient to
provide for estimated loan losses based on the evaluation of known and inherent
risks in the loan portfolio. The Corporation's management evaluates the adequacy
of the allowance for loan losses on a monthly basis. In determining the
allowance, management considers the portfolio risk characteristics, prior loss
experience, prevailing and projected economic conditions and loan impairment
measurement.

         At December 31, 1996, the allowance for loan losses was $186 million or
1.90% of loans, compared with $168 million or 1.94% at the same date in 1995. At
December 31, 1994, the allowance was $154 million or 1.98% of loans. Based on
current and expected economic conditions, the expected level of net loan losses
and the methodology established to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance for
loan losses, management considers that the Corporation continues enjoying an
adequate position in its allowance for loan losses.

         Broken down by major loan categories, the allowance for the last five
years was as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES
                                                                  AT DECEMBER 31,
                                                                   (IN MILLIONS)

                                               1996         1995        1994        1993         1992
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------- 
 <S>                                        <C>          <C>         <C>         <C>          <C>     
 Commercial                                 $   91.8     $   82.6    $   73.8    $   64.0     $   49.5
 Construction                                   10.5         11.0        10.8        10.6          6.5
 Lease financing                                 3.4          6.4         6.5         5.8          5.4
 Consumer                                       69.6         60.6        56.7        52.0         49.3
 Mortgage                                       10.3          7.8         6.0         1.0
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------- 
                                            $  185.6     $  168.4    $  153.8    $  133.4     $  110.7
                                            ==========================================================
</TABLE>


         Effective January 1, 1995, the Corporation adopted the Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) 114, "Accounting by Creditors for
Impairment of a Loan", as amended by SFAS 118, "Accounting by Creditors for
Impairment of a Loan-Income Recognition and Disclosures." This statement
requires that a loan meeting the definition of impaired be measured at the
present value of expected future cash flows using the loan's effective interest
rate, or as a practical expedient, at the loan's observable market price or the
fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. A loan is
impaired when, based on the current information and events, it is probable that
a creditor will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the
contractual terms of the loan agreement. At December 31, 1996 and 1995, the
portion of the allowance for loan losses related with impaired loans as defined
by the above pronouncements was $18 million and $8 million, respectively. Please
refer to Notes 1 and 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further
information related with SFAS 114 and 118.

         Table O summarizes the movement in the allowance for loan losses and
presents selected loan loss statistics for the past five years. As this table
demonstrates, net loan losses for the year totaled $72.1 million or 0.78% of
average loans, an increase of $22.1 million or 44.2% from $50.0 million or 0.61%
of average loans in 1995. The rise primarily reflected higher charge-offs in the
consumer portfolio, particularly personal loans and credit cards, lease
financing and commercial loan portfolios.

         Consumer loans net charge-offs totaled $29.1 million, or 1.18% of
average consumer loans for 1996, compared with $17.2 million, or 0.78% of
average consumer loans for 1995. Within this category, personal loans reflected
an increase of $8.6 million, from $7.0 million or 0.57% of average personal
loans in 1995 to $15.6 million or 1.20% in 1996. This increase is the result of
the growth of $70 million in the average personal loan portfolio together with a
rise in personal bankruptcies during 1996. In addition, credit cards net losses
were $11.0 million or 2.49% of average credit card loans as compared with $9.2
million or 2.35% in 1995.


F-26
<PAGE>   45
TABLE O
Allowance for Loan Losses and Selected Loan Losses Statistics

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Dollars in thousands)                          1996           1995           1994           1993           1992
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                         <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>       
  Balance at beginning of year .........    $  168,393     $  153,798     $  133,437     $  110,714     $   94,199
  Allowances purchased .................           402           --            3,473          1,580           --
  Provision for loan losses ............        88,839         64,558         53,788         72,892         97,633
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               257,634        218,356        190,698        185,186        191,832
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  Losses charged to the allowance
   Commercial ..........................        38,017         34,383         27,435         29,501         37,700
   Construction ........................         2,369          2,046          1,794          3,060          1,887
   Lease financing .....................        22,129          6,979          6,860          9,150         10,139
   Mortgage ............................         2,189          1,618          1,310            477
   Consumer ............................        43,257         33,681         29,545         35,239         52,454
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               107,961         78,707         66,944         77,427        102,180
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  Recoveries
   Commercial ..........................        11,498          9,404          6,950          6,279          3,577
   Construction ........................           207            288          1,374            607            796
   Lease financing .....................         9,749          2,342          3,514          2,081          2,169
   Mortgage ............................           295            243              5             36
   Consumer ............................        14,152         16,467         18,201         16,675         14,520
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                35,901         28,744         30,044         25,678         21,062
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  Net loans charged-off ................        72,060         49,963         36,900         51,749         81,118
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  Balance at end of year ...............    $  185,574     $  168,393     $  153,798     $  133,437     $  110,714
                                            =======================================================================
  Loans:
    Outstanding at year end ...........     $9,779,028     $8,677,484     $7,781,329     $6,346,922     $5,252,053
    Average ...........................      9,210,964      8,217,834      7,107,746      5,700,069      5,150,328

  Ratios:
    Allowance for loan losses to year
     end loans .........................          1.90%          1.94%          1.98%          2.10%          2.11%
    Recoveries to charge-offs ..........         33.25          36.52          44.88          33.16          20.61
    Net charge-offs to average loans ...          0.78           0.61           0.52           0.91           1.58
    Net charge-offs earnings coverage ..          4.79x          5.42x          6.21x          3.96x          2.44x
    Allowance for loan losses to net
    charge-offs ........................          2.58           3.37           4.17           2.58           1.36
  Provision for loan losses to:
      Net charge-offs ..................          1.23           1.29           1.46           1.41           1.20
      Average loans ....................          0.96%          0.79%          0.76%          1.28%          1.90%
  Allowance to non-performing assets ...        119.89         108.62         142.89         120.04          83.68
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


         As previously mentioned, lease financings net charge-offs increased
$7.8 million, from $4.6 million or 0.95% of average lease financings in 1995 to
$12.4 million or 2.45% in 1996, as a result of the more aggressive charge-off
policy implemented in 1996 by the Corporation's leasing subsidiaries. However,
the level of charge-offs in the leasing portfolio should stabilize during 1997,
while the level of recoveries is expected to increase.

         Commercial loans net charge-offs amounted to $26.5 million for 1996,
compared with $25.0 million a year earlier. As a percentage of average
commercial loans, this figure decreased slightly to 0.77% in 1996 from 0.83% in
1995. Net charge-offs in the mortgage portfolio totaled $1.9 million in 1996
compared with $1.4 million in 1995.


                                                                            F-27
<PAGE>   46
STATISTICAL SUMMARY 1992-1996                               BANPONCE CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CONDITION

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                              As of December 31,
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands)                                          1996           1995           1994            1993          1992
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                <C>            <C>            <C>             <C>            <C>        
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks .......................    $   492,368    $   458,173    $   442,316     $   368,837    $   325,497
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Money market investments:
 Federal funds sold and securities
  and mortgages purchased under
   agreements to resell .......................        778,597        796,417        265,000         247,333        234,163
 Time deposits with other banks ...............         19,023            100            100          15,100         50,100
 Bankers' acceptances..........................          2,656          2,202            570             259            858
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       800,276        798,719        265,670         262,692        285,121
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trading securities ............................        292,150        330,674          1,670           3,017            283
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment securities available-for-sale
 at market value and at lower of cost or
 market value before 1994 .....................      3,415,934      3,209,974        839,226         715,565        408,127
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------

Investment securities held-to-maturity, at cost      1,197,066      1,651,344      2,955,911       3,329,798      3,290,440
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------

Loans held-for-sale ...........................        255,129        112,806         10,296
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------

Loans .........................................      9,854,911      8,883,963      8,066,954       6,655,072      5,614,724
 Less-Unearned income .........................        331,012        319,285        295,921         308,150        362,671
     Allowance for loan losses ................        185,574        168,393        153,798         133,437        110,714
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     9,338,325      8,396,285      7,617,235       6,213,485      5,141,339
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Premises and equipment ........................        356,697        325,203        324,160         298,089        260,330
Other real estate .............................          6,076          7,807         10,390          12,699         15,582
Customers' liabilities on acceptances..........          3,100          2,208            902           1,392          1,830
Accrued income receivable .....................         95,487        113,539         78,765          79,285         76,008
Other assets ..................................        380,247        125,742        103,088          95,763         64,890
Intangible assets .............................        131,248        142,977        128,729         132,746        132,880
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   $16,764,103    $15,675,451    $12,778,358     $11,513,368    $10,002,327
                                                   ========================================================================
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Liabilities:
  Deposits:
  Non-interest bearing ........................    $ 2,330,704    $ 2,021,658    $ 1,949,244     $ 1,848,859    $ 1,614,806
  Interest bearing ............................      8,432,571      7,855,004      7,063,191       6,673,799      6,423,905
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    10,763,275      9,876,662      9,012,435       8,522,658      8,038,711

  Federal funds purchased and securities
   sold under agreements to repurchase ........      1,875,465      3,000,878      1,438,038         951,733        665,222
  Other short-term borrowings .................      1,404,006        454,707        573,841         664,173        206,882
  Notes payable ...............................        986,713        730,428        459,524         253,855         90,062
  Senior debentures ...........................         30,000         30,000         30,000          30,000         30,000
  Acceptances outstanding .....................          3,100          2,208            902           1,392          1,830
  Other liabilities ...........................        314,012        263,871        211,195         182,362        132,501
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    15,376,571     14,358,754     11,725,935      10,606,173      9,165,208
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Subordinated notes ..........................        125,000        175,000         50,000          62,000         74,000
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Preferred stock of Banco Popular ............                                                       11,000         11,000
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stockholders' equity:
  Preferred stock .............................        100,000        100,000        100,000
  Common stock ................................        396,531        197,692        197,029         196,395        195,929
  Surplus .....................................        496,582        427,282        409,445         386,622        361,982
  Retained earnings ...........................        267,719        350,480        272,458         208,607        150,208
  Unrealized gains (losses) on investment
   securities available-for-sale, net of
   deferred taxes .............................          1,700         16,243        (19,366)
  Capital reserves ............................                        50,000         42,857          42,571         44,000
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     1,262,532      1,141,697      1,002,423         834,195        752,119
                                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   $16,764,103    $15,675,451    $12,778,358     $11,513,368    $10,002,327
                                                   ========================================================================
</TABLE>


F-28
<PAGE>   47
STATISTICAL SUMMARY 1992-1996                               BANPONCE CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF INCOME


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                             For the year ended December 31,
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands, except per common share
  information)                                              1996            1995            1994            1993            1992
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                     <C>             <C>             <C>             <C>             <C>       
INTEREST INCOME:
Loans ..............................................    $  924,076      $  813,137      $  667,047      $  549,388      $  518,074
Money market investments ...........................        46,697          23,077           5,186           6,434          14,414
Investment securities ..............................       280,610         259,941         214,611         215,944         207,642
Trading account securities .........................        21,470           9,652             297             370             224
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Total interest income ............................     1,272,853       1,105,807         887,141         772,136         740,354
Less - Interest expense ............................       591,540         521,624         351,633         280,008         300,135
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Net interest income ..............................       681,313         584,183         535,508         492,128         440,219
Provision for loan losses ..........................        88,839          64,558          53,788          72,892          97,633
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Net interest income after provision
   for loan losses .................................       592,474         519,625         481,720         419,236         342,586
Gain on sale of investment securities ..............         3,094           5,368             224             864             242
Trading account profit .............................           108           1,785             227             554             383
All other operating income .........................       202,270         166,185         140,852         123,762         123,879
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           797,946         692,963         623,023         544,416         467,090
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Personnel costs ....................................       273,247         249,075         225,747         215,911         188,234
All other operating expenses .......................       268,672         237,758         222,099         196,365         178,711
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           541,919         486,833         447,846         412,276         366,945
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before tax, dividends on preferred
  stock of Banco Popular and cumulative
  effect of accounting changes .....................       256,027         206,130         175,177         132,140         100,145
Income tax .........................................        70,877          59,769          50,043          28,151          14,259
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Income before dividends on preferred
  stock of Banco Popular and cumulative
  effect of accounting changes .....................       185,150         146,361         125,134         103,989          85,886
Dividends on preferred stock of
  Banco Popular ....................................                                           385             770             770
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income before cumulative effect of
  accounting changes ...............................       185,150         146,361         124,749         103,219          85,116
Cumulative effect of accounting changes ............                                                         6,185
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------------------

NET INCOME .........................................    $  185,150      $  146,361      $  124,749      $  109,404      $   85,116
                                                        ==========================================================================

NET INCOME APPLICABLE TO COMMON STOCK ..............    $  176,800      $  138,011      $  120,504      $  109,404      $   85,116
                                                        ==========================================================================

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE*
  Before effect of accounting changes ..............    $     2.68      $     2.10      $     1.84      $     1.58      $     1.40
                                                        ==========================================================================

  Net income .......................................    $     2.68      $     2.10      $     1.84      $     1.67      $     1.40
                                                        ==========================================================================

Dividends declared on common stock:
Cash dividends per common share outstanding ........    $     0.69      $     0.58      $     0.50      $     0.45      $     0.40
                                                        ==========================================================================
</TABLE>


*The average common shares used in the computation of earnings and cash dividend
per common share were 66,022,312 for 1996; 65,816,300 for 1995; 65,596,486 for
1994; 65,402,472 for 1993, and 60,922,988 for 1992.


                                                                            F-29
<PAGE>   48
STATISTICAL SUMMARY 1992-1996
AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET AND SUMMARY OF NET INTEREST INCOME


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ON A TAXABLE EQUIVALENT BASIS*
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Dollars in thousands)                                                  1996                                     1995
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       AVERAGE                      AVERAGE      Average                    Average
                                                       BALANCE        INTEREST       RATE        Balance       Interest       Rate
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                  <C>            <C>             <C>       <C>            <C>             <C>  
ASSETS 
Interest earning assets:
  Federal funds sold and securities and
  mortgages purchased under agreements
  to resell ......................................   $   878,138    $    45,704      5.20%    $    399,413   $    22,823      5.71%
  Time deposits with other banks .................        12,562            770      6.13            2,661           165      6.20
  Bankers' acceptances ...........................         2,202            223     10.13              941            89      9.46
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Total money market investments ...............       892,902         46,697      5.23          403,015        23,077      5.73
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  U.S. Treasury securities .......................     3,198,912        222,520      6.96        2,893,797       197,554      6.83
  Obligations of other U.S. Government
    agencies and corporations ....................       750,287         49,042      6.54          575,024        40,493      7.04
  Obligations of Puerto Rico, States and
    political subdivisions .......................       231,363         11,224      4.85          247,176        14,798      5.99
  Collateralized mortgage obligations
    and mortgage backed securities ...............       553,702         32,117      5.80          580,714        37,610      6.48
  Other ..........................................        95,985          5,483      5.71          171,013         6,491      3.80
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total investment securities ................     4,830,249        320,386      6.63        4,467,724       296,946      6.65
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trading account securities .......................       372,196         23,004      6.18          155,597         9,831      6.32
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loans (net of unearned income) ...................     9,210,964        930,891     10.11        8,217,834       820,003      9.98
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total interest earning assets/
       Interest income ...........................    15,306,311    $ 1,320,978      8.63%      13,244,170   $ 1,149,857      8.68%
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total non-interest earning assets ..........       994,771                                   874,013
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      TOTAL ASSETS ...............................   $16,301,082                              $ 14,118,183
                                                     ==============================================================================

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Interest bearing liabilities:
  Savings and NOW accounts .......................   $ 4,244,625    $   131,499      3.10%    $  4,015,973   $   126,548      3.15%
  Other time deposits ............................     4,163,416        218,722      5.25        3,720,473       203,235      5.46
  Short-term borrowings ..........................     3,464,892        184,682      5.33        2,600,246       141,522      5.44
  Mortgages and notes payable ....................       757,604         46,417      6.13          598,027        46,149      7.72
  Subordinated notes .............................       147,951         10,220      6.91           56,850         4,170      7.34
                                                     -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total interest bearing liabilities/
        Interest expense .........................    12,778,488        591,540      4.63       10,991,569       521,624      4.75
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total non-interest bearing liabilities .....     2,328,083                                 2,056,132
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total liabilities ..........................    15,106,571                                13,047,701
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Preferred stock of Banco Popular
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stockholders' equity .............................     1,194,511                                 1,070,482
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY .   $16,301,082                              $ 14,118,183
                                                     ==============================================================================

Net interest income on a taxable
  equivalent basis ...............................                  $   729,438                              $   628,233
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost of funding earning assets ...................                                   3.86%                                    3.94%
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net interest yield ...............................                                   4.77%                                    4.74%
                                                     ==============================================================================
      Effect of the taxable equivalent adjustment                        48,125                                   44,050
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Net interest income per books ....................                  $   681,313                              $   584,183
                                                     ==============================================================================
</TABLE>


*        Shows the effect of the tax exempt status of some loans and investments
         on their yield, using the applicable statutory income tax rates. The
         computation considers the interest expense disallowance as required by
         the Tax Reform Act enacted in 1987. This adjustment is shown in order
         to compare the yields of the tax exempt, and taxable assets on a
         taxable basis.

Note: Average loan balances include the average balance of non-accruing loans.
No interest income is recognized for these loans in accordance with the
Corporation's policy.


F-30
<PAGE>   49
                                                            BANPONCE CORPORATION


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    1994                                     1993                                 1992
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Average                         Average   Average                  Average    Average                      Average
  Balance         Interest         Rate     Balance        Interest    Rate     Balance         Interest       Rate
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>               <C>              <C>    <C>              <C>         <C>     <C>              <C>           <C>
$   114,215       $  4,858         4.25%  $   117,095      $  4,115    3.51%   $  144,539       $  5,209       3.60%
      4,916            300         6.10        57,845         2,259    3.91       215,970          9,093       4.21
        332             28         8.43           871            60    6.89         1,496            112       7.49
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    119,463          5,186         4.34       175,811         6,434    3.66       362,005         14,414       3.98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  2,657,975        164,102         6.17     2,985,634       202,695    6.79     2,443,267        226,038       9.25

    526,687         33,969         6.45       274,821        18,033    6.56       317,152         27,838       8.78

    259,534         14,074         5.42       227,784        14,253    6.26       212,762         19,345       9.09


    712,972         37,535         5.26       523,224        26,944    5.15       288,818         21,780       7.54
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  4,157,168        249,680         6.01     4,011,463       261,925    6.53     3,261,999        295,001       9.04
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      5,303            368         6.94         7,319           449    6.13         5,649            303       5.36
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  7,107,746        672,974         9.47     5,700,069       555,671    9.75     5,150,328        526,902      10.23
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 11,389,680       $928,208         8.15%    9,894,662      $824,479    8.33%    8,779,981       $836,620       9.53%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    835,850                                   789,091                             748,537
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$12,225,530                               $10,683,753                          $9,528,518
====================================================================================================================



$ 3,972,406       $116,858         2.94%  $ 3,570,920      $107,454    3.01%   $2,999,691       $108,945       3.63%
  3,069,130        130,868         4.26     2,918,625       111,994    3.84     3,171,177        144,430       4.55
  1,856,649         77,537         4.18     1,337,970        42,392    3.17       903,903         31,711       3.51
    376,570         22,420         5.95       195,522        12,801    6.55       116,695          8,245       7.07
     56,082          3,950         7.04        73,967         5,367    7.26        85,585          6,804       7.95
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  9,330,837        351,633         3.77     8,097,004       280,008    3.46     7,277,051        300,135       4.12
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  1,964,399                                 1,782,748                           1,571,477
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 11,295,236                                 9,879,752                           8,848,528
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      5,425                                    11,000                              11,000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    924,869                                   793,001                             668,990
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$12,225,530                               $10,683,753                          $9,528,518
====================================================================================================================

                  $576,575                                 $544,471                             $536,485
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   3.09%                               2.83%                                   3.42%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   5.06%                               5.50%                                   6.11%
====================================================================================================================
                    41,067                                   52,343                               96,266
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                  $535,508                                 $492,128                             $440,219
====================================================================================================================
</TABLE>



                                                                            F-31
<PAGE>   50
STATISTICAL SUMMARY 1994-1996                               BANPONCE CORPORATION
QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                   1996                                            1995
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                FOURTH       THIRD      SECOND       FIRST      Fourth       Third      Second       First
                                QUARTER     QUARTER     QUARTER     QUARTER     Quarter     Quarter     Quarter     Quarter 
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                            <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>        
SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per
common share information)

Interest income .............. $ 332,854   $ 327,097   $ 309,975   $ 302,927   $ 298,311   $ 288,459   $ 268,818   $ 250,219  
Net interest income ..........   178,409     172,236     168,208     162,460     156,120     148,415     142,120     137,528  
Provision for loan
  losses .....................    23,458      22,436      21,672      21,273      21,227      18,987      12,646      11,698  
Non-interest income ..........    55,291      46,488      49,335      51,263      45,276      44,881      40,306      37,507  
Gain (loss) on sale of
  investment securities ......    (2,525)      4,911         (20)        729       3,306       1,950          66          46  
Non-interest expense .........   143,923     135,453     131,844     130,699     124,197     119,596     124,722     118,318  
Income before income
  tax, cumulative effect
  of accounting changes
  and dividends on
  preferred stock of
  Banco Popular ..............    63,794      65,746      64,007      62,480      59,278      56,663      45,124      45,065  
Income taxes .................    16,114      19,473      17,952      17,338      19,026      18,356      11,063      11,324  
Dividends on preferred
  stock of Banco Popular .....                      
                               ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income ................... $  47,680   $  46,273   $  46,055   $  45,142   $  40,252   $  38,307   $  34,061   $  33,741  
                               ==============================================================================================

Net income applicable
  to common stock ............ $  45,593   $  44,186   $  43,967   $  43,005   $  38,164   $  36,220   $  31,973   $  31,654  
                               ==============================================================================================

Net income per
  common share ............... $    0.69   $    0.67   $    0.67   $    0.65   $    0.58   $    0.55   $    0.49   $    0.48  
                               ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SELECTED AVERAGE BALANCES
(In millions)
Total assets ................. $  16,852   $  16,796   $  15,988   $  15,557   $  15,183   $  14,709   $  13,616   $  12,934  
Loans ........................     9,668       9,387       9,033       8,749       8,548       8,360       8,090       7,864  
Interest earning assets ......    15,794      15,769      15,020      14,631      14,276      13,788      12,815      12,068  
Deposits .....................    10,767      10,548      10,474      10,055       9,848       9,614       9,615       9,245  
Interest bearing liabilities..    13,145      13,285      12,464      12,210      11,912      11,596      10,552       9,871  
                               ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SELECTED RATIOS
Return on assets .............      1.13%       1.10%       1.16%       1.17%       1.05%       1.03%       1.00%       1.06% 
Return on equity .............     15.76       15.94       16.56       16.39       14.82       14.55       13.47       13.96  


<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                   1994
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                Fourth       Third      Second      First
                                Quarter     Quarter     Quarter     Quarter
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                            <C>         <C>         <C>         <C> 
SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per
common share information)

Interest income .............. $ 239,035   $ 228,695   $ 220,000   $ 199,411
Net interest income ..........   137,452     136,699     135,574     125,783
Provision for loan
  losses .....................    12,544      13,544      14,037      13,663
Non-interest income ..........    37,807      36,013      34,407      32,852
Gain (loss) on sale of
  investment securities ......       157        (205)                    272
Non-interest expense .........   114,266     114,551     112,452     106,577
Income before income
  tax, cumulative effect
  of accounting changes
  and dividends on
  preferred stock of
  Banco Popular ..............    48,606      44,412      43,492      38,667
Income taxes .................    15,980      12,695      11,623       9,745
Dividends on preferred
  stock of Banco Popular .....                               192         193
                               ----------------------------------------------
Net income ................... $  32,626   $  31,717   $  31,677   $  28,729
                               ==============================================

Net income applicable
  to common stock ............ $  30,538   $  29,560   $  31,677   $  28,729
                               ==============================================

Net income per
  common share ............... $    0.47   $    0.45   $    0.48   $    0.44
                               ----------------------------------------------

SELECTED AVERAGE BALANCES
(In millions)
Total assets ................. $  12,585   $  12,385   $  12,301   $  11,618
Loans ........................     7,645       7,356       6,958       6,456
Interest earning assets ......    11,749      11,540      11,449      10,809
Deposits .....................     8,960       8,841       9,000       8,543
Interest bearing liabilities..     9,572       9,445       9,440       8,856
                               ----------------------------------------------

SELECTED RATIOS
Return on assets .............      1.03%       1.02%       1.03%       1.00%
Return on equity .............     13.54       13.26       14.59       13.78
</TABLE>


F-32
<PAGE>   51
GLOSSARY OF TERMS


936 CORPORATIONS - Subsidiaries of U.S. firms operating in Puerto Rico and other
offshore areas under Section 936 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Section 936
provides certain tax benefits on Puerto Rico source earnings from the active
conduct of a trade or business or from qualified investments. In August 1996,
the U.S. Congress repealed Section 936 with a phase-out period of 10 years on
the credit from earnings from active conduct of trade or business.

936 DEPOSITS - Funds of 936 corporations deposited in banks usually in the form
of time deposits. The restriction that these funds must be reinvested in
eligible assets, if income derived from them is to be considered tax-exempt for
U.S. and Puerto Ricos Industrial Incentive Act purposes, lowers the rate on
these funds as compared to interest rates paid on similar deposits. In August
1996, the U.S. Congress approved legislation that repealed the exemption on
these funds, effective July 1,1996, for taxable years beginning after December
31, 1995.

BASIS POINT - Equals to one-hundredth of one percent. Used to express changes or
differences in interest yields and rates.

CORE DEPOSITS - A deposit category that includes all non-interest bearing
deposits, savings deposits and certificates of deposit under $100,000. These
deposits are considered a stable source of funds.

EARNING ASSETS - Assets that earn interest, such as loans, investment
securities, money market investments and trading account securities.

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE - Net income less dividends on preferred stock of the
Corporation, divided by the average number of common shares outstanding during
the periods presented.

GAP - The difference that exists at a specific period of time between the
maturities or repricing terms of interest-sensitive assets and
interest-sensitive liabilities.

INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES - Liabilities on which interest is paid such as
saving deposits, certificates of deposit, other time deposits, borrowings and
subordinated notes.

INTEREST-SENSITIVE ASSETS/LIABILITIES - Interest-earning assets/interest-bearing
liabilities for which interest rates are adjustable within a specified time
period due to maturity or contractual arrangements.

LEVERAGE RATIO - Ratio adopted by the Federal Reserve System to assist in the
assessment of the capital adequacy of state member banks. This ratio is
calculated by dividing Tier I capital by quarterly average assets. The quarterly
average assets are reduced by goodwill, any other intangible asset deducted from
Tier I capital and the disallowed portion of deferred tax assets.

LIQUIDITY - A combination of assets that assures currently available supplies of
funds necessary to meet deposit withdrawals, loan demands and repayment of
borrowings as they become due. The need for liquid funds is normally satisfied
from daily operations and the maturity management of money market investments
and investment securities.

NET CHARGE-OFFS - The amount of loans written off as uncollectible, net of the
recovery of loans previously written off as uncollectible.

NET INCOME APPLICABLE TO COMMON STOCK - Net income less dividends paid on the
Corporation's preferred stock.

NET INTEREST INCOME - The difference between interest income and fees on earning
assets and interest expense on liabilities.

NET INTEREST YIELD - A percentage computed by dividing net interest income by
average earning assets.

NON-PERFORMING ASSETS - Includes loans on which the accrual of interest income
has been discontinued due to default on interest and/or principal payments or
other factors indicative of doubtful collection, renegotiated loans and
foreclosed real estate properties.

RETURN ON ASSETS - Net income as a percentage of average total assets.

RETURN ON EQUITY - Net income applicable to common stock as a percentage of
average common stockholders equity.

RISK-BASED CAPITAL - Guidelines for the regulatory measurement of capital
adequacy. These guidelines set forth how capital is to be measured and how total
assets are to be risk adjusted. Total risk-adjusted assets include assets and
off-balance sheet items adjusted by the appropriate credit risk category, based
on the type of obligor or, where relevant, the guarantor, or the nature of the
collateral.

                                                                            F-33
<PAGE>   52
SPREAD - A percentage difference or margin between the yield on earning assets
and the effective interest rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities.

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - Excess of assets over liabilities that constitutes the
stockholders ownership participation in the Corporation's financial resources.

SUPPLEMENTARY (TIER II) CAPITAL - Consists of the allowance for loan losses and
qualifying term subordinated notes.

TANGIBLE EQUITY - Consists of stockholders' equity less intangible assets.

TAXABLE EQUIVALENT BASIS - An adjustment of income on tax-exempt earning assets
to an amount that would yield the same after-tax income had the income been
subject to taxation. The result is to equate the true earnings value of
tax-exempt and taxable income.

TIER I CAPITAL - Consists of common stockholders' equity (including the related
surplus, retained earnings and capital reserves), non-cumulative perpetual
preferred stock less goodwill, other non-qualifying intangible assets and the
disallowed portion of deferred tax assets.

TRANSFER PRICING - A method by which costs are allocated to the various profit
centers within an organization.

YIELD - Percentage denoting actual return on earning assets.





F-34
<PAGE>   53
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS                           BANPONCE CORPORATION

         Price Waterhouse

         San Juan, Puerto Rico

         February 21, 1997

         To the Board of Directors
         and Stockholders of
         BanPonce Corporation

         In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated statements of condition
         and the related consolidated statements of income, of cash flows and of
         changes in stockholders' equity present fairly, in all material
         respects, the financial position of BanPonce Corporation and its
         subsidiaries at December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the results of their
         operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the
         period ended December 31, 1996, in conformity with generally accepted
         accounting principles. These financial statements are the
         responsibility of the Corporation's management; our responsibility is
         to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our
         audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with
         generally accepted auditing standards, which require that we plan and
         perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
         financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit
         includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts
         and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting
         principles used and significant estimates made by management, and
         evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe
         that our audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed
         above.





         Price Waterhouse


         Stamp 1392144 of the P.R.
         Society of Certified Public
         Accountants has been affixed
         to the file copy of this report.


                                                                            F-35
<PAGE>   54
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONDITION                        BANPONCE CORPORATION



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                                                  December 31,
                                                                                       ------------------------------
                                                                                            1996               1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             (Dollars in thousands, except per share information)
<S>                                                                                    <C>                <C>
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks .............................................................  $   492,368        $   458,173
                                                                                       ------------------------------
Money market investments:
  Federal funds sold and securities and mortgages purchased under
    agreements to resell ............................................................      778,597            796,417
  Time deposits with other banks ....................................................       19,023                100
  Bankers' acceptances ..............................................................        2,656              2,202
                                                                                       ------------------------------
                                                                                           800,276            798,719
                                                                                       ------------------------------
Trading securities, at market value .................................................      292,150            330,674
                                                                                       ------------------------------
Investment securities available-for-sale, at market value ...........................    3,415,934          3,209,974
                                                                                       ------------------------------
Investment securities held-to-maturity, at cost (market value $1,197,641;
  1995 - $1,661,933) ................................................................    1,197,066          1,651,344
                                                                                       ------------------------------

Loans held-for-sale .................................................................      255,129            112,806
                                                                                       ------------------------------
Loans ...............................................................................    9,854,911          8,883,963
  Less - Unearned income ............................................................      331,012            319,285
         Allowance for loan losses ..................................................      185,574            168,393
                                                                                       ------------------------------
                                                                                         9,338,325          8,396,285
                                                                                       ------------------------------
Premises and equipment ..............................................................      356,697            325,203
Other real estate ...................................................................        6,076              7,807
Customers' liabilities on acceptances ...............................................        3,100              2,208
Accrued income receivable ...........................................................       95,487            113,539
Other assets ........................................................................      380,247            125,742
Intangible assets ...................................................................      131,248            142,977
                                                                                       ------------------------------
                                                                                       $16,764,103        $15,675,451
                                                                                       ==============================

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Liabilities:
  Deposits:
  Non-interest bearing ..............................................................  $ 2,330,704        $ 2,021,658
  Interest bearing ..................................................................    8,432,571          7,855,004
                                                                                       ------------------------------
                                                                                        10,763,275          9,876,662
  Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase ........    1,875,465          3,000,878
  Other short-term borrowings .......................................................    1,404,006            454,707
  Notes payable .....................................................................      986,713            730,428
  Senior debentures .................................................................       30,000             30,000
  Acceptances outstanding ...........................................................        3,100              2,208
  Other liabilities .................................................................      314,012            263,871
                                                                                       ------------------------------
                                                                                        15,376,571         14,358,754
                                                                                       ------------------------------
  Subordinated notes ................................................................      125,000            175,000
                                                                                       ------------------------------
Stockholders' equity:
  Preferred stock, $25 liquidation value; 10,000,000 shares authorized;
    4,000,000 issued and outstanding ................................................      100,000            100,000
  Common stock, $6 par value; authorized 90,000,000 shares;
    issued and outstanding 66,088,506 (1995 - 65,897,272) ...........................      396,531            197,692
  Surplus ...........................................................................      496,582            427,282
  Retained earnings .................................................................      267,719            350,480
  Unrealized gains on investment securities available-for-sale, net of deferred
    taxes of $1,490 (1995 - $7,085) .................................................        1,700             16,243
  Capital reserves ..................................................................                          50,000
                                                                                       ------------------------------
                                                                                         1,262,532          1,141,697
                                                                                       ------------------------------
                                                                                       $16,764,103        $15,675,451
                                                                                       ==============================
</TABLE>



               The accompanying notes are an integral part of the
                       consolidated financial statements.


F-36
<PAGE>   55
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME                           BANPONCE CORPORATION


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                                               Year ended December 31,
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
                                                                                        1996             1995             1994
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    (In thousands, except per share information)
<S>                                                                                 <C>              <C>              <C>       
INTEREST INCOME:
  Loans ...................................................................         $  924,076       $  813,137       $  667,047
  Money market investments ................................................             46,697           23,077            5,186
  Investment securities ...................................................            280,610          259,941          214,611
  Trading securities ......................................................             21,470            9,652              297
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
                                                                                     1,272,853        1,105,807          887,141
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
INTEREST EXPENSE:
  Deposits ................................................................            350,221          329,783          247,726
  Short-term borrowings ...................................................            184,682          141,522           77,537
  Long-term debt ..........................................................             56,637           50,319           26,370
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
                                                                                       591,540          521,624          351,633
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
Net interest income .......................................................            681,313          584,183          535,508
  Provision for loan losses ...............................................             88,839           64,558           53,788
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
Net interest income after provision for loan losses .......................            592,474          519,625          481,720
  Service charges on deposit accounts .....................................             85,846           78,607           71,727
  Other service fees ......................................................             77,071           63,725           51,240
  Gain on sale of investment securities ...................................              3,094            5,368              224
  Trading account profit ..................................................                108            1,785              227
  Other operating income ..................................................             39,353           23,853           17,885
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
                                                                                       797,946          692,963          623,023
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
OPERATING EXPENSES:
  Personnel costs:
   Salaries ...............................................................            185,946          172,504          160,996
   Profit sharing .........................................................             22,692           19,003           19,205
   Pension and other benefits .............................................             64,609           57,568           45,546
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
                                                                                       273,247          249,075          225,747
  Net occupancy expense ...................................................             36,899           32,850           28,440
  Equipment expenses ......................................................             47,957           41,577           35,474
  Other taxes .............................................................             23,214           20,872           19,807
  Professional fees .......................................................             46,182           34,954           33,757
  Communications ..........................................................             26,470           23,106           20,308
  Business promotion ......................................................             26,229           17,801           16,271
  Printing and supplies ...................................................             11,964           11,069            8,817
  Other operating expenses ................................................             31,703           35,325           41,222
  Amortization of intangibles .............................................             18,054           20,204           18,003
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
                                                                                       541,919          486,833          447,846
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
Income before income tax and dividends on preferred
  stock of Banco Popular ..................................................            256,027          206,130          175,177
Income tax ................................................................             70,877           59,769           50,043
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
Income before dividends on preferred stock of Banco Popular ...............            185,150          146,361          125,134
Dividends on preferred stock of Banco Popular .............................                                                  385
                                                                                    --------------------------------------------
NET INCOME ................................................................         $  185,150       $  146,361       $  124,749
                                                                                    ============================================

NET INCOME APPLICABLE TO COMMON STOCK .....................................         $  176,800       $  138,011       $  120,504
                                                                                    ============================================

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:
  NET INCOME ..............................................................         $     2.68       $     2.10       $     1.84
                                                                                    ============================================
</TABLE>



               The accompanying notes are an integral part of the
                       consolidated financial statements.


                                                                            F-37
<PAGE>   56
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW                        BANPONCE CORPORATION


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                                       Year ended December 31,
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------
                                                                              1996               1995            1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                            (In thousands) 
<S>                                                                       <C>                <C>             <C>        
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 Net income ...........................................................   $    185,150       $    146,361    $   124,749
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------
 Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided
   by operating activities:
     Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment ..........         48,481             44,448         38,654
     Provision for loan losses ........................................         88,839             64,558         53,788
     Amortization of intangibles ......................................         18,054             20,204         18,003
     Gain on sale of investment securities available-for-sale .........         (3,094)            (5,368)          (224)
     (Gain) loss on disposition of premises and equipment .............           (123)               150         (2,311)
     Gain on sale of loans ............................................        (11,060)            (8,966)        (4,454)
     Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts 
      on investments ..................................................          8,538             (2,325)         6,277
     Amortization of deferred loan origination fees and costs .........         (3,096)             7,131          2,755
     Net decrease (increase) in trading securities ....................         38,524            (97,973)         1,347
     Increase in loans held-for-sale ..................................       (142,323)           (36,244)
     Net decrease (increase) in accrued income receivable .............         18,665            (24,378)         2,613
     Net increase in other assets .....................................       (221,070)            (8,640)       (14,519)
     Net increase in interest payable .................................         11,765              2,077          6,226
     Net (decrease) increase in current and deferred taxes ............        (19,979)             1,410         19,620
     Net increase in postretirement benefit obligation ................          7,977              6,979          5,818
     Net increase in other liabilities ................................         29,284              6,121          8,187
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------
       Total adjustments ..............................................       (130,618)           (30,816)       141,780
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------
       Net cash provided by operating activities ......................         54,532            115,545        266,529
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 Net decrease in money market investments .............................         11,110             44,298          2,422
 Purchases of investment securities held-to-maturity ..................    (28,849,896)       (11,665,837)    (7,290,753)
 Maturities of investment securities held-to-maturity .................     29,302,469         11,754,330      7,671,104
 Sales of investment securities held-to-maturity ......................                                           13,555
 Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale ................     (5,396,828)        (1,367,401)      (385,963)
 Maturities of investment securities available-for-sale ...............      2,297,528             86,379         64,297
 Sales of investment securities available-for-sale ....................      2,896,060            286,045        293,712
 Net disbursements on loans ...........................................     (1,501,808)        (1,155,497)    (1,435,677)
 Proceeds from sale of loans ..........................................        515,357            244,682        193,411
 Acquisition of loan portfolios .......................................        (16,983)           (66,922)       (76,700)
 Assets acquired, net of cash .........................................         (7,164)           (29,189)       (17,557)
 Acquisition of premises and equipment ................................        (86,162)           (51,318)       (64,709)
 Proceeds from sale of premises and equipment .........................          9,662              6,888          8,825
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------
       Net cash used in investing activities ..........................       (826,655)        (1,913,542)    (1,024,033)
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 Net increase in deposits .............................................        823,907            680,847        197,072
 Net deposits acquired ................................................                           163,504
 Net (decrease) increase in federal funds purchased and
  securities sold under agreements to repurchase ......................     (1,125,413)           771,382        481,304
 Net increase (decrease) in other short-term borrowings ...............        949,300           (144,028)       (92,932)
 Proceeds from issuance of notes payable ..............................        423,670            258,181        205,679
 Payment of notes payable .............................................       (167,385)               (11)           (10)
 Payment of subordinated notes ........................................        (50,000)                          (12,000)
 Proceeds from issuance of subordinated notes .........................                           125,000
 Dividends paid .......................................................        (51,896)           (44,521)       (37,016)
 Proceeds from issuance of common stock ...............................          4,135              3,500          3,196
 Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock ............................                                           96,690
 Redemption of preferred stock ........................................                                          (11,000)
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------
       Net cash provided by financing activities ......................        806,318          1,813,854        830,983
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------
Net increase in cash and due from banks ...............................         34,195             15,857         73,479
Cash and due from banks at beginning of period ........................        458,173            442,316        368,837
                                                                          ----------------------------------------------
Cash and due from banks at end of period ..............................   $    492,368       $    458,173    $   442,316
                                                                          ==============================================
</TABLE>


               The accompanying notes are an integral part of the
                       consolidated financial statements.


F-38
<PAGE>   57
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES                          BANPONCE CORPORATION
IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                             Year ended December 31,
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------
                                                                                       1996             1995            1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                  (In thousands)
<S>                                                                               <C>              <C>             <C>
PREFERRED STOCK:
  Balance at beginning of year ............................................       $   100,000      $   100,000
  Preferred stock issued ..................................................                                        $   100,000
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------
         Balance at end of year ...........................................           100,000          100,000         100,000
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------

COMMON STOCK:
  Balance at beginning of year ............................................           197,692          197,029         196,395
  Transfer from retained earnings resulting from stock split ..............           198,004
  Common stock issued under Dividend Reinvestment Plan ....................               835              663             634
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------
         Balance at end of year ...........................................           396,531          197,692         197,029
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------

SURPLUS:
  Balance at beginning of year ............................................           427,282          409,445         386,622
  Issuance cost of preferred stock ........................................                                             (3,310)
  Proceeds from common stock issued under
    Dividend Reinvestment Plan ............................................             3,300            2,837           2,562
  Transfer from retained earnings .........................................            16,000           15,000          15,000
  Transfer from capital reserves ..........................................            50,000                            8,571
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------
         Balance at end of year ...........................................           496,582          427,282         409,445
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------

RETAINED EARNINGS:
  Balance at beginning of year ............................................           350,480          272,458         208,607
  Net income ..............................................................           185,150          146,361         124,749
  Cash dividends declared on common stock .................................           (45,557)         (37,846)        (32,796)
  Cash dividends declared on preferred stock ..............................            (8,350)          (8,350)         (4,245)
  Transfer to common stock resulting from stock split .....................          (198,004)
  Transfer to capital reserves ............................................                             (7,143)         (8,857)
  Transfer to surplus .....................................................           (16,000)         (15,000)        (15,000)
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------
         Balance at end of year ...........................................           267,719          350,480         272,458
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------

UNREALIZED HOLDING GAINS (LOSSES) ON SECURITIES
  AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE, NET OF DEFERRED TAXES:
  Balance at beginning of year ............................................            16,243          (19,366)
  Unrealized holding gains on adoption of change in
   accounting for investment securities, net of deferred taxes ............                                             17,104
  Net change in the fair value of investment securities
   available-for-sale, net of deferred taxes ..............................           (14,543)          35,609         (36,470)
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------
         Balance at end of year ...........................................             1,700           16,243         (19,366)
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------

CAPITAL RESERVES:
  Balance at beginning of year ............................................            50,000           42,857          42,571
  Transfer from retained earnings .........................................                              7,143           8,857
  Transfer to surplus .....................................................           (50,000)                          (8,571)
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------
         Balance at end of year ...........................................                             50,000          42,857
                                                                                  --------------------------------------------
Total stockholders' equity ................................................       $ 1,262,532      $ 1,141,697     $ 1,002,423
                                                                                  ============================================
</TABLE>


               The accompanying notes are an integral part of the
                       consolidated financial statements.


                                                                            F-39
<PAGE>   58
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS              BANPONCE CORPORATION

_______________________________________________________________________________

NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

        The accounting and reporting policies of BanPonce Corporation and its
subsidiaries (the Corporation) conform with generally accepted accounting
principles and with general practices within the banking industry.  The
following is a description of the more significant of these policies:

CONSOLIDATION

        The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of BanPonce
Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries Vehicle Equipment Leasing
Company, Inc. (Velco); BP Capital Markets, Inc.; Banco Popular de Puerto Rico
(Banco Popular) and its wholly-owned subsidiaries Popular Leasing and Rental,
Inc., Popular Consumer Services, Inc. and Popular Mortgage, Inc.; Popular
International Bank, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary BanPonce Financial
Corp., including Banco Popular, FSB, Pioneer Bancorp, Inc. (Pioneer),
CombanCorp (second tier subsidiaries) and Equity One, Inc.  All intercompany
accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.  The preferred
stock of Banco Popular, which was redeemed on June 30, 1994, and dividends
related thereto have been treated as minority interest in the accompanying
consolidated financial statements.

NATURE OF OPERATIONS

        BanPonce Corporation is a bank holding company which provides a wide
variety of financial services through its subsidiaries.  Banco Popular, the
Corporation's largest banking subsidiary, is a full-service commercial bank and
Puerto Rico's largest banking institution, with a delivery system of 178
branches throughout Puerto Rico, 29 branches in New York, seven branches in the
U.S. Virgin Islands and one branch in the British Virgin Islands.  Banco
Popular, Illinois, a banking subsidiary of Pioneer, operates five branches in
the State of Illinois, while Banco Popular, N.A. (California), a banking
subsidiary of CombanCorp, operates four branches in the State of California. 
In addition, Banco Popular, FSB, a federal savings bank, operates six branches
in the State of New Jersey.

        Also, the Corporation offers consumer finance services through its
subsidiaries, Equity One, Inc., Popular Mortgage, Inc. and Popular Consumer
Services, Inc. Equity One, Inc. is a diversified mortgage and consumer finance
company engaged in the business of granting personal and mortgage loans and
providing dealer financing through 102 offices located in 28 states in the U.S.
mainland.  Popular Mortgage is a mortgage loan company with three offices in
Puerto Rico operating under the name of Puerto Rico Home Mortgage, and Popular
Consumer Services, Inc. is a small loan company with 35 offices in Puerto Rico
operating under the name of Best Finance.

        The Corporation is also engaged in vehicle and equipment leasing,
through eight offices in Puerto Rico operated by Popular Leasing and Rental,
Inc.  Moreover, the Corporation is engaged in investment banking and
broker/dealer activities through its subsidiary BP Capital Markets, Inc.

USE OF ESTIMATES IN THE PREPARATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

        The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. 
Actual results could differ from those estimates.

TRADING SECURITIES

        Financial instruments including, to a limited extent, derivatives such
as interest rate futures and options contracts, are utilized by the Corporation
in dealing and other trading activities and are carried at market value.  In
conjunction with mortgage banking activities, the Corporation records the
securitization of mortgage loans held-for-sale as a sale of mortgage loans and
the purchase of a mortgage-backed security classified as a trading security, in
accordance with the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
(SFAS) 115.  Realized and unrealized changes in market values are recorded
separately in the trading profit or loss account in the period in which the
changes occur.  Interest revenue and expense arising from trading instruments
are included in the income statement as part of net interest income rather than
in the trading profit or loss account.

        Securities sold but not yet purchased, which represent the
Corporation's obligation to deliver securities sold which were not owned at the
time of sale, are recorded at market value.


F-40
<PAGE>   59
_______________________________________________________________________________

INVESTMENT SECURITIES

        On January 1, 1994, the Corporation adopted SFAS 115, "Accounting for
Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities", which addresses the
accounting and reporting for investments in equity securities that have readily
determinable fair values and all investments in debt securities.  Those
investments are classified in three categories and accounted for as follows:

        - Debt securities that the enterprise has the positive intent and
          ability to hold to maturity are classified as securities held-to-
          maturity and reported at amortized cost.  The Corporation may sell or
          transfer held-to-maturity securities without calling into question 
          its intent to hold other debt securities to maturity, only as a 
          result of non-recurring, unusual events that could not have been 
          reasonably anticipated.
        - Debt and equity securities that are bought and held principally for
          the purpose of selling them in the near term are classified as trading
          securities and reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and 
          losses included in earnings.
        - Debt and equity securities not classified as either securities
          held-to-maturity or trading securities are classified as securities
          available-for-sale and reported at fair value, with unrealized gains 
          and losses excluded from earnings and reported net of deferred taxes 
          in a separate component of stockholders' equity.

        The initial adoption of this statement resulted in an increase in the
Corporation's stockholders' equity of $17,104,000, net of deferred taxes,
pertaining to the unrealized gains on securities available-for-sale.

        The amortization of premiums is deducted and the accretion of discounts
is added to interest income based on the interest method over the outstanding
period of the related securities.  Net realized gains or losses on sales of
investment securities and unrealized loss valuation adjustments considered
other than temporary, if any, on securities available-for-sale and
held-to-maturity are reported separately in the statement of income.  The
Corporation anticipates prepayments of principal in the calculation of the
effective yield and average maturity for collateralized mortgage obligations
and mortgage-backed securities.

RISK MANAGEMENT INSTRUMENTS

        The Corporation occasionally uses derivative financial instruments,
such as interest rate caps and swaps, in the management of its interest rate
exposure.  These instruments are accounted for on an accrual basis.  Under the
accrual method, interest income or expense on the derivative contract is
accrued and there is no recognition of unrealized gains and losses on the
derivative in the statement of condition.  Premiums on option contracts are
amortized to interest income or interest expense over the life of such
contracts.  Income and expenses arising from the instruments are recorded in
the category appropriate to the related asset or liability.

        Gains and losses related to contracts that are effective hedges are
deferred and recognized in income in the same period as gains and losses on the
hedged item.  Amounts to be paid or received under interest rate swap
agreements are recognized as interest income or expense in the periods in which
they are realized.  Gains and losses on early termination of contracts that
modify the characteristics of specified assets or liabilities are deferred and
amortized as an adjustment to the yield of the related assets or liabilities
over their remaining lives.

LOANS HELD-FOR-SALE

        Loans held-for-sale are stated at the lower of cost or market, cost
being determined based on the outstanding loan balance less unearned income,
and fair market value determined on an aggregate basis according to secondary
market prices.  The amount by which cost exceeds market value, if any, is
accounted for as a valuation allowance with changes included in the
determination of net income of the period in which the change occurs.

LOANS

        Loans are stated at the outstanding balance less unearned income and
allowance for loan losses.  Loan origination fees and costs incurred in the
origination of new loans are deferred and amortized using the interest method
over the life of the loan as an adjustment to interest yield.  Unearned
interest on lease financing and installment loans is recognized as income on a
basis which results in approximate level rates of return over the term of the
loans.

        Recognition of interest income on commercial and construction loans is
discontinued when loans are 60 days or more in arrears on payments of principal
or interest or when other factors indicate that collection of principal and
interest is doubtful.  Interest accrual for lease financing, conventional
mortgage loans and close-end consumer loans, is ceased when loans are 90 days
or more past due.  Loans designated as non-accruing are not returned to an
accrual status until interest is received on a current basis and those factors
indicative of doubtful collection cease to exist.  Close-end consumer loans and
leases are charged-off


                                                                        F-41
<PAGE>   60
_______________________________________________________________________________

against the allowance for loan losses after becoming 120 days past due. 
Open-end (revolving credit) consumer loans are charged-off after becoming 180
days past due.  Income is generally recognized on open-end loans until the
loans are charged-off.

LEASE FINANCING

        The Corporation leases passenger and commercial vehicles and equipment
to individual and corporate customers.  The finance method of accounting is
used to recognize revenue on lease contracts that meet the criteria specified
in SFAS 13, "Accounting for Leases," as amended.  Aggregate rentals due over
the term of the leases less unearned income, are included in finance lease
contracts receivable.  Unearned income is amortized using a method which
results in level rates of return on the principal amounts outstanding.  Finance
lease origination fees and costs are deferred and amortized over the average
life of the portfolio as an adjustment to the yield.

        All other leases are accounted for under the operating method.  Under
this method, revenue is recognized as it becomes due under the terms of the
agreement.

ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

        The Corporation follows a systematic methodology to establish and
evaluate the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses to provide for inherent
losses in the loan portfolio as well as in other credit-related balance sheet
and off-balance sheet financial instruments.  This methodology includes the
consideration of factors such as economic conditions, portfolio risk
characteristics, prior loss experience, results of periodic credit reviews of
individual loans and financial accounting standards.

        The provision for loan losses charged to current operations is based on
an evaluation of the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio and the
economic conditions.  Loan losses are charged and recoveries are credited to
the allowance for loan losses.

        On January 1, 1995, the Corporation adopted SFAS 114, "Accounting by
Creditors for Impairment of a Loan" as amended by SFAS 118, "Accounting by
Creditors for Impairment of a Loan-Income Recognition and Disclosures."  SFAS
114 addresses the accounting by creditors for impairment of certain loans.  It
is applicable to all creditors and to all loans, uncollateralized as well as
collateralized, except large groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans that
are collectively evaluated for impairment, loans that are measured at fair
value or at lower of cost or fair value, leases and debt securities as defined
in SFAS 115.  It also applies to all loans that are restructured in a troubled
debt restructuring involving a modification of terms.  SFAS 114 requires
creditors to set up a valuation allowance, with a corresponding charge to the
provision for loan losses for those loans considered to be impaired.

        The Corporation has defined impaired loans as all loans with interest
and/or principal past due 90 days or more and other specific loans for
which, based on current information and events, it is probable that the debtor
will be unable to pay all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the
loan agreement.  Loan impairment is measured based on the present value of
expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective rate, on the
observable market price or, on the fair value of the collateral if the loan is
collateral dependent.  Large groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans are
collectively evaluated for impairment based on past experience.  All other
loans are evaluated on a loan-by-loan basis.  Once a specific measurement
methodology is chosen it is consistently applied unless there is a significant
change in the financial position of the borrower.  Impaired loans for which the
discounted cash flows, collateral value or market price equals or exceeds its
carrying value do not require an allowance.  The allowance for impaired loans
is part of the Corporation's overall allowance for loan losses.

        Cash payments received on impaired loans are recorded in accordance
with the contractual terms of the loan.  The principal portion of the payment
is used to reduce the principal balance of the loan, whereas the interest
portion is recognized as interest income.  However, when management believes
the ultimate collectibility of principal is in doubt, the interest portion is
then applied to principal.  The adoption of this pronouncement had no impact on
the net income for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995.

MORTGAGE BANKING

        Mortgage loan servicing includes collecting monthly mortgagor payments,
forwarding payments and related accounting reports to investors, collecting
escrow deposits for the payment of mortgagor property taxes and insurance, and
paying taxes and insurance from escrow funds when due.  Also, the Corporation
is required to foreclose on loans in the event of default by the mortgagor, and
to make full payment on foreclosed loans.  No asset or liability is recorded by
the Corporation for mortgages serviced, except for mortgage servicing rights,
advances to investors and escrow balances.  Mortgage servicing rights, an
intangible asset, represents the cost of acquiring the contractual right to
service loans for others.  Mortgage loan servicing fees, which are based on a
percentage of the principal balances of the mortgages serviced, are credited to
income as mortgage payments are collected.



F-42

<PAGE>   61
_______________________________________________________________________________

        On January 1, 1996, the Corporation adopted SFAS 122, "Accounting for
Mortgage Servicing Rights."  This statement requires that mortgage banking
enterprises recognize as separate assets the rights to service mortgage loans
for others, whether those servicing rights are originated or purchased. 
Pursuant to the provisions of SFAS 122, the total cost of mortgage loans to be
sold with servicing rights retained is allocated to the mortgage servicing
rights and the loans (without the mortgage servicing rights), based on their
relative fair values.  Mortgage servicing rights are amortized in proportion to
and over the period of estimated net servicing income.  In addition, it
requires mortgage banking enterprises to assess capitalized mortgage servicing
rights for impairment based on the fair value of those rights.

        To estimate the fair value of mortgage servicing rights the Corporation
considers prices for similar assets and the present value of expected future
cash flows associated with the servicing rights calculated using assumptions
that market participants would use in estimating future servicing income and
expense.  For purposes of evaluating and measuring impairment of capitalized
mortgage servicing rights, the Corporation stratifies such rights based on
predominant risk characteristics of underlying loans, such as loan type, rate
and term.  The amount of impairment recognized, if any, is the amount by which
the capitalized mortgage servicing rights per stratum exceed its estimated fair
value.  Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance.

        Total loans serviced were $5,110,000,000 at December 31,
1996(1995-$4,610,000,000).  The carrying value, estimated fair value and
valuation allowance of capitalized mortgage servicing rights were $25,890,000,
$32,691,000, and $65,000, respectively, at December 31, 1996.  For the year
ended December 31, 1996, the Corporation recognized additional income of
$5,905,000 as a result of the adoption of this pronouncement.

PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

        Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation
and amortization.  Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the
estimated useful life of each type of asset.  Amortization of leasehold
improvements is computed over the terms of the respective leases or the
estimated useful lives of the improvements, whichever is shorter.  Costs of
maintenance and repairs which do not improve or extend the life of the
respective assets are expensed as incurred.  Costs of renewals and betterments
are capitalized.  When assets are disposed of, their cost and related
accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss
is reflected in the operations as realized or incurred, respectively.

        On January 1, 1996, the Corporation adopted SFAS 121, "Accounting for
the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed
Of."  This statement requires that long-lived assets, certain identifiable
intangibles and goodwill related to those assets to be held and used, and long
lived assets to be disposed of by an entity be reviewed for impairment whenever
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an
asset may not be recoverable.  This statement excludes financial instruments,
long-term customer relationships of financial institutions, mortgage and other
servicing rights and deferred tax assets.  For the year ended December 31,
1996, the Corporation recorded an impairment loss of $700,000, as further
explained in Note 8, based on the provisions of this pronouncement.

OTHER REAL ESTATE

        Other real estate comprises properties acquired through foreclosure.  
Upon foreclosure, the recorded amount of the loan is written-down, if required,
to the appraised value of the real estate acquired by charging the allowance for
loan losses.  Subsequent to foreclosure, the properties are carried at the
lower of carrying value or fair value less estimated cost of disposal.  Gains
or losses on the sale of these properties are credited or charged to expense of
operating other real estate.  The costs of maintaining and operating such
properties are expensed as incurred.

INTANGIBLE ASSETS

        Intangible assets consist of goodwill and other identifiable intangible
assets acquired, mainly core deposits and mortgage servicing rights.  The
values of core deposits, assembled work force and credit customer relationships
are amortized using various methods over the periods benefitted, which range
from 4 to 10 years.  Goodwill represents the excess of the Corporation's cost
of purchased operations over the fair value of the net assets acquired and is
amortized on the straight-line basis over periods ranging from 7 to 15 years.

SECURITIES SOLD/PURCHASED UNDER AGREEMENTS TO REPURCHASE/RESALE

        Repurchase and resale agreements are treated as financing transactions
and are carried at the amounts at which the securities will be reacquired or
resold as specified in the respective agreements.  It is the Corporation's
policy to take possession or control of securities purchased under resale
agreements.  The Corporation monitors the market value of the underlying
securities as compared to the related receivable, including accrued interest,
and requests additional collateral where deemed appropriate.
 


                                                                        F-43
<PAGE>   62
_______________________________________________________________________________

INCOME TAXES

        The Corporation uses an asset and liability approach to the
recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax
consequences of events that have been recognized in the Corporation's
financial statements or tax returns.  Deferred income tax assets and
liabilities are determined for differences between financial statement and tax
bases of assets and liabilities that will result in taxable or deductible
amounts in the future.  The computation is based on enacted tax laws and rates
applicable to periods in which the temporary differences are expected to be
recovered or settled.  Valuation allowances are established, when necessary, to
reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.

EMPLOYEE'S RETIREMENT PLANS

        The Corporation has trusteed, non-contributory retirement and other
benefit plans covering substantially all full-time employees.  Pension costs
are computed on the basis of accepted actuarial methods and are charged to
current operations.  Net pension costs are based on various actuarial
assumptions regarding future experience under the plan, which include costs for
services rendered during the period, interest costs and return on plan assets,
as well as deferral and amortization of certain items such as actuarial gains
or losses.  The funding policy is to contribute funds to the plan as necessary
to provide for services to date and for those expected to be earned in the
future.  To the extent that these requirements are fully covered by assets in
the plan, a contribution may not be made in a particular year.

OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS

        The Corporation provides certain health and life insurance benefits for
eligible retirees and their dependents.  The cost of postretirement benefits,
which is determined based on actuarial assumptions and estimates of the costs
of providing these benefits in the future, is accrued during the years that the
employee renders the required service.

STOCK COMPENSATION

        On January 1, 1996, the Corporation adopted SFAS 123, "Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation."  SFAS 123 establishes a fair value-based method of
accounting for stock-based compensation plans.  It encourages entities to adopt
this method in lieu of the provisions of Accounting Principles Board (APB)
Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees", for all
arrangements under which employees receive shares of stock or other equity
instruments of the employer or the employer incurs liabilities to employees in
amounts based on the price of its stock.

        Banco Popular provides a stock-based compensation plan for its Senior
Management.  It is a three-year incentive plan under which shares of stock of
the Corporation are granted if long-term corporate performance and objectives
are met.  For the year ended December 31, 1996, the Corporation recognized an
expense of $837,000 related to this plan, determined on the estimated fair
value of the stock.

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

        Earnings per common share are computed by dividing net income, reduced
by dividends on preferred stock, by the weighted average number of common
shares of the Corporation outstanding during the year.

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

        For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include
cash on hand and amounts due from banks.

RECLASSIFICATIONS

        Certain minor reclassifications have been made to the 1995 and 1994
consolidated financial statements to conform with the 1996 presentation.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

        In June 1996, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued
SFAS 125, "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and
Extinguishments of Liabilities," as amended by SFAS 127, "Deferral of the
Effective Date of Certain Provisions of FASB Statement No. 125."  This
statement provides accounting and reporting standards for transfers and
servicing of financial assets and extinguishment of liabilities.  Those
standards are based on a consistent application of a financial components
approach that focuses on control.  Under that approach, after a transfer of
financial assets, an entity recognizes the financial 


F-44
<PAGE>   63
and servicing assets it controls and the liabilities it has incurred,
derecognizes financial assets when control has been surrendered, and
derecognizes liabilities when extinguished. The statement is effective for
transfers and servicing of financial assets and extinguishments of liabilities
occurring after December 31, 1996, except for certain provisions related with
repurchase agreements, dollar-roll, securities lending, and similar
transactions, which shall be effective for transfers of financial assets
occurring after December 31, 1997. Management understands that the adoption of
this statement will not have a material effect on the consolidated financial
statements of the Corporation.

NOTE 2 - CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS

         The Corporation's subsidiary banks are required by regulatory agencies
to maintain average reserve balances. The amount of those reserve balances was
approximately $335,676,000 at December 31, 1996 (1995 - $299,907,000).

NOTE 3 - INVESTMENT SECURITIES AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE:

The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, approximate market value
of investment securities available-for-sale (or fair value for certain
investment securities where no market quotations are available), weighted
average yield and related maturities as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 (1994 -
only market value is present) were as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                          1996
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                        Weighted
                                                                 Amortized     Unrealized   Unrealized     Market        average
                                                                   cost          gains        losses       value          yield
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                         (In thousands)
<S>                                                             <C>              <C>          <C>         <C>              <C>
U.S. Treasury securities (average maturity of  1 year and 
 3 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................   $  900,463       $2,325       $   59      $  902,729       5.88%
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................    1,335,189        5,492        1,905       1,338,776       6.00
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 2,235,652        7,817        1,964       2,241,505       5.96
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations of other U.S. Government agencies and
 corporations (average maturity of 5 years and 8 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................       75,256          120           46          75,330       6.39
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       73,064          197          460          72,801       5.77
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................      155,231          113                      155,344       6.84
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   303,551          430          506         303,475       6.47
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations of Puerto Rico, States and political
 subdivisions (average maturity of 4 years and 6 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................        6,832            6            8           6,830       4.64
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       14,510          198           76          14,632       5.12
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................       12,695           93           90          12,698       5.36
   After 10 years ...........................................          671                         9             662       5.34
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    34,708          297          183          34,822       5.12
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
Collateralized mortgage obligations (average
 maturity of 1 year and 10 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................      101,158           16          182         100,992       6.02
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................      304,987           37          645         304,379       6.11
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................       26,125            5            4          26,126       6.07
   After 10 years ...........................................        4,593                                     4,593       6.43
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   436,863           58          831         436,090       6.09
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
Mortgage-backed securities (average maturity
 of 21 years and 7 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................        7,391            1          223           7,169       5.59
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       43,695           21        1,017          42,699       5.75
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................        7,482            3          318           7,167       6.98
   After 10 years ...........................................      312,901          247        1,064         312,084       6.63
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   371,469          272        2,622         369,119       6.51
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
Equity securities (without contractual maturity) ............       12,145          499                       12,644       0.86
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------

Other (average maturity of 13 years and 2 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................          203            1                          204       8.19
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................       10,103            2                       10,105       8.24
   After 10 years ...........................................        8,050                        80           7,970       6.90
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    18,356            3           80          18,279       7.65
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $3,412,744       $9,376       $6,186      $3,415,934       6.06%
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


                                                                            F-45
<PAGE>   64
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                          1995                               1994
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                Weighted
                                                                Amortized   Unrealized Unrealized      Market    average    Market
                                                                   cost        gains     losses        value      yield     value
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                            (In thousands)
<S>                                                             <C>           <C>        <C>         <C>           <C>    <C>
U.S. Treasury securities  (average maturity of  1 year):
   Within 1 year ............................................   $1,399,444    $ 5,996    $  318      $1,405,122    6.16%  $ 18,822
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................    1,038,016     11,437       494       1,048,959    5.74    530,299
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 2,437,460     17,433       812       2,454,081    5.98    549,121
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations of other U.S. Government agencies
 and corporations (average maturity of 1 year and 11 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................       62,496        201        20          62,677    6.62     72,748
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................      231,954      1,258        66         233,146    5.72     80,914
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................        1,239                    7           1,232    6.23
   After 10 years ...........................................                                                               16,281
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   295,689      1,459        93         297,055    5.91    169,943
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations of Puerto Rico, States and political subdivisions
 (average maturity of 2 years and 10 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................        7,072         19        13           7,078    6.34      4,720
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       16,194        238       127          16,305    5.19     16,202
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................        3,954        212                     4,166    7.83      2,336
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    27,220        469       140          27,549    5.87     23,258
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
Collateralized mortgage obligations (average maturity
 of 2 years and 5 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................       35,526         33       166          35,393    6.07      4,280
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       74,829         18       329          74,518    6.35     45,727
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................        2,337          2                     2,339    6.43        481
   After 10 years ...........................................        5,088                                5,088    6.35
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   117,780         53       495         117,338    6.27     50,488
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
Mortgage-backed securities (average maturity of
 19 years and 5 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................       11,747          4       159          11,592    5.64      1,324
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       50,382         19       556          49,845    5.68     11,445
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................        7,503                  147           7,356    5.89      5,917
   After 10 years ...........................................      199,053        681       547         199,187    6.79      8,720
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   268,685        704     1,409         267,980    6.50     27,406
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------

Equity securities (without contractual maturity) ............       21,759      6,159                    27,918    2.16     15,228
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
Other (average maturity of 8 years and 11 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................                                                                   90
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................                                                                3,608
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................       10,000                               10,000    8.25
   After 10 years ...........................................        8,053                                8,053    6.90         84
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    18,053                               18,053    7.65      3,782
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $3,186,646    $26,277    $2,949      $3,209,974    6.01%  $839,226
                                                                ==================================================================
</TABLE>

         The weighted average yield on investment securities available-for-sale
is based on amortized cost, therefore it does not give effect to changes in fair
value.


         The aggregate amortized cost and approximate market value of investment
securities available-for-sale at December 31, 1996, by contractual and estimated
maturity, are shown below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               Amortized Cost  Market Value
                                               ----------------------------
                                                     (In thousands)
                <S>                             <C>             <C>
                Within 1 year ...............   $1,091,303      $1,093,254
                After 1 to 5 years ..........    1,771,445       1,773,287
                After 5 to 10 years .........      211,636         211,440
                After 10 years ..............      326,215         325,309
                                                --------------------------
                        Total ...............    3,400,599       3,403,290
                 Without contractual 
                   maturity..................       12,145          12,644
                                                --------------------------

                Total investments securities
                   available-for-sale .......   $3,412,744      $3,415,934
                                                ==========================
</TABLE>


F-46
<PAGE>   65
         Proceeds from the sale of investment securities available-for-sale
during 1996 were $2,896,060,000 (1995 - $286,045,000; 1994 - $293,712,000).
Gross realized gains and losses on those sales during the year were $8,504,000
and $5,440,000, respectively (1995 - $6,284,000 and $916,000; 1994 - $1,159,000
and $887,000). The basis on which cost was determined in computing the realized
gains and losses was the specific identification method.

NOTE 4 - INVESTMENT SECURITIES HELD-TO-MATURITY:

         The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, approximate
market value of investment securities held-to-maturity (or fair value for
certain investment securities where no market quotations are available),
weighted average yield and related maturities as of December 31, 1996 and 1995
(1994 - only amortized cost is presented) were as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                               1996
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                        Weighted
                                                                  Amortized    Unrealized   Unrealized       Market      average
                                                                    cost          gains       losses         value        yield
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                          (In thousands)
<S>                                                             <C>              <C>          <C>          <C>             <C>  
U.S. Treasury securities
 (average maturity of 6 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................   $  618,934       $  590       $  183       $  619,341      5.83%
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   618,934          590          183          619,341      5.83
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations of other U.S. Government
 agencies and corporations (average maturity of 5 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................      119,701                       107          119,594      6.17
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       20,000                       525           19,475      3.50
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   139,701                       632          139,069      5.78
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------

Obligations of Puerto Rico, States and political
 subdivisions (average maturity of 2 years and 11 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................       98,073           52           56           98,069      3.32
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       23,993          704           63           24,634      7.33
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................       11,839          624                        12,463      8.14
   After 10 years ...........................................       17,397          447                        17,844      8.95
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   151,302        1,827          119          153,010      4.98
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
Collateralized mortgage obligations (average maturity
 of 1 year and 6 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................       93,077           37          522           92,592      5.43
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       59,607          259          364           59,502      6.13
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................        4,582           15            8            4,589      6.24
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   157,266          311          894          156,683      5.72
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
Mortgage-backed securities (average maturity of
 4 years and 3 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................        9,181            1           37            9,145      7.53
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................       27,813            3          114           27,702      7.52
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................       16,004            2           71           15,935      7.51
   After 10 years ...........................................        2,730                        74            2,656      7.17
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    55,728            6          296           55,438      7.50
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
Equity securities (without contractual
 maturity) ..................................................       61,407                                     61,407      6.06
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------

Other (average maturity of 5 years and 9 months):
   Within 1 year ............................................          250                                        250      7.50
   After 1 to 5 years .......................................        6,145            5                         6,150      2.78
   After 5 to 10 years ......................................        4,197                                      4,197      7.82
   After 10 years ...........................................        2,136                        40            2,096      5.31
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    12,728            5           40           12,693      4.97
                                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                $1,197,066       $2,739       $2,164       $1,197,641      5.78%
                                                                ================================================================
</TABLE>


                                                                            F-47
<PAGE>   66
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                                 1995                                  1994
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                         Weighted
                                                       Amortized   Unrealized  Unrealized    Market       average    Amortized
                                                          cost        gains      losses      value         yield       cost
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                  (In thousands)
<S>                                                    <C>           <C>         <C>      <C>              <C>      <C>
U.S. Treasury securities
(average maturity of 1 year and 4 months):
   Within 1 year ...................................   $  301,463    $ 3,093              $  304,556       7.09%    $  875,346
   After 1 to 5 years ..............................      623,703      5,289                 628,992       6.26        866,363
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          925,166      8,382                 933,548       6.53      1,741,709
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations of other U.S. Government
 agencies and corporations (average
 maturity of 1 year and 6 months):
   Within 1 year ...................................                                                                   111,655
   After 1 to 5 years ..............................      122,978         27     $1,011      121,994       5.30        207,647
   After 5 to 10 years .............................                                                                     3,525
   After 10 years ..................................                                                                    22,459
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          122,978         27      1,011      121,994       5.30        345,286
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations of Puerto Rico, States
 and political subdivisions (average
 maturity of 3 years and 2 months):
   Within 1 year ...................................      125,983         80         24      126,039       3.67        144,588
   After 1 to 5 years ..............................       34,578      1,222         56       35,744       7.56         37,417
   After 5 to 10 years .............................       12,179        982                  13,161       8.51         15,764
   After 10 years ..................................       22,455        813                  23,268       9.17         21,695
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          195,195      3,097         80      198,212       5.29        219,464
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Collateralized mortgage obligations (average
 maturity of 3 years and 1 month):
   Within 1 year ...................................      150,960         85      1,023      150,022       5.11        141,492
   After 1 to 5 years ..............................      120,345        316      1,080      119,581       5.57        278,942
   After 5 to 10 years .............................       14,058        153         26       14,185       6.57         40,348
   After 10 years ..................................          109          1                     110       6.35          1,000
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          285,472        555      2,129      283,898       5.38        461,782
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Mortgage-backed securities (average maturity
 of 4 years):
   Within 1 year ...................................       11,694        311                  12,005       7.56         14,676
   After 1 to 5 years ..............................       32,965        875          2       33,838       7.54         74,712
   After 5 to 10 years .............................       17,877        469          2       18,344       7.48         32,296
   After 10 years ..................................        4,111         74         13        4,172       7.15         13,780
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           66,647      1,729         17       68,359       7.50        135,464
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------

Equity securities (without contractual maturity) ...       43,558                             43,558       6.80         40,127
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------

Other (average maturity of 11 years and 11 months):
   Within 1 year ...................................                                                                       250
   After 1 to 5 years ..............................        6,145         17                   6,162       2.80          6,145
   After 5 to 10 years .............................        4,027                              4,027       7.90          3,527
   After 10 years ..................................        2,156         19                   2,175       5.58          2,157
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           12,328         36                  12,364       4.95         12,079
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       $1,651,344    $13,826     $3,237   $1,661,933       6.13%    $2,955,911
                                                       =======================================================================
</TABLE>


         The aggregate amortized cost and approximate market value of investment
securities held-to-maturity at December 31, 1996, by contractual and estimated
maturity, are shown below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   Amortized cost     Market value
                                                   -------------------------------
                                                              (In thousands)
                 <S>                                 <C>               <C>
                 Within 1 year ..............        $  939,216        $  938,991
                 After 1 to 5 years .........           137,558           137,463
                 After 5 to 10 years ........            36,622            37,184
                 After 10 years .............            22,263            22,596
                                                     ----------------------------
                         Total ..............         1,135,659         1,136,234
                 Without contractual 
                   maturity .................            61,407            61,407
                                                     ----------------------------

                 Total investment securities
                   held-to-maturity .........        $1,197,066        $1,197,641
                                                     ============================
</TABLE>


F-48
<PAGE>   67
         In November 1995, the FASB issued a Special Report, "A Guide to
Implementation of Statement 115 on Accounting for Certain Investment in Debt and
Equity Securities." In conjunction with the issuance of this Special Report, the
FASB provided a one-time "window" to reclassify securities from the
held-to-maturity portfolio to available-for-sale or trading before January 1,
1996, without calling into question the intent to hold other debt securities to
maturity. As a result of this window, in December 1995, the Corporation
transferred $1,323,000,000 from securities held-to-maturity to
available-for-sale. During 1996, investment securities held-to-maturity with an
amortized cost of $13,603,000 were called by the issuer or sold due to a
significant deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Proceeds from the
sale of those securities were $2,652,000 (1994 - $13,555,000). Gross realized
gains and losses on those sales were $30,000 and $0 (1994 - $189,000 and
$237,000), respectively.

         Investments in obligations that are payable from and secured by the
same source of revenue or taxing authority and that exceeded 10 percent of
stockholders' equity were as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 Percent of
                                                      Amortized  stockholders    Market
                                                         cost       equity       value
                                                       ---------------------------------
                                                            (Dollars in thousands)
               <S>                                  <C>            <C>       <C> 
               Issuer:
               Government of Puerto Rico,
                its agencies and instrumentalities:
                  December 31, 1996 ...............    $151,203       12%       $152,933
                  December 31, 1995 ...............     195,065       17         198,082
</TABLE>


NOTE 5 - PLEDGED ASSETS:

         At December 31, 1996, investment securities and loans amounting to
$2,788,401,000 (1995 - $2,920,220,000; 1994 - $2,244,617,000) are pledged to
secure public and trust deposits and securities and mortgages sold under
agreements to repurchase.

NOTE 6 - LOANS AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES:

         The composition of the loan portfolio at December 31, was as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    1996           1995
                                                                -------------------------
                                                                       (In thousands) 
        <S>                                                     <C>            <C>       
        Loans secured by real estate:
         Insured or guaranteed by the U.S. Government
            or its agencies ...............................     $   83,864     $  119,730
         Guaranteed by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico ....         67,497         72,853
         Commercial loans secured by real estate ..........      1,030,383        910,673
         Residential conventional mortgages ...............      2,295,723      2,156,388
         Construction and land development ................        181,433        146,430
         Consumer .........................................        536,527        448,561
                                                                -------------------------
                                                                 4,195,427      3,854,635
         Financial institutions ...........................         90,345         97,694
         Commercial, industrial and agricultural ..........      2,390,267      1,931,924
         Lease financing ..................................        639,945        620,646
         Consumer for household, credit cards and
           other consumer expenditures ....................      2,344,001      2,159,126
         Other ............................................        194,926        219,938
                                                                -------------------------
                                                                $9,854,911     $8,883,963
                                                                =========================
</TABLE>


         As of December 31, 1996, loans on which the accrual of interest income
had been discontinued amounted to $145,408,000 (1995 - $144,482,000; 1994 -
$94,263,000). If these loans had been accruing interest, the additional interest
income realized would have been approximately $7,696,000 (1995 - $7,135,000;
1994 - $5,441,000). In addition, there are $3,308,000 of renegotiated loans
still accruing interest at December 31, 1996 (1995 - $2,742,000; 1994 -
$2,982,000). Included in the non-accruing loans as of December 31, 1996, were
$16,320,000 (1995 - $14,827,000; 1994 - $12,179,000) in consumer loans.



                                                                            F-49
<PAGE>   68

        At December 31, the recorded investment in loans that were considered
impaired under SFAS 114 and the related disclosures are shown below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               December 31,
                                                                           1996           1995
                                                                        ------------------------
                                                                              (In thousands)
        <S>                                                             <C>              <C>
        Impaired loans with a related allowance........................ $59,447          $38,476
        Impaired loans that do not require allowance...................  36,700           47,837
                                                                        ------------------------
                Total impaired loans................................... $96,147          $86,313
                                                                        ========================
        Allowance for impaired loans................................... $17,777          $ 8,093
                                                                        ========================
        Impaired loans measured based on fair value of collateral...... $36,700          $43,095
        Impaired loans measured based on discounted cash flows.........  59,447           43,218
                                                                        ------------------------
                                                                        $96,147          $86,313
                                                                        ========================
        Average balance of impaired loans during the year.............. $88,165          $90,284
                                                                        ========================
        Interest income recognized on impaired loans during the year... $ 3,526          $ 3,187
                                                                        ========================
</TABLE>



        The changes in the allowance for loan losses for the year ended
December 31, were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    1996       1995         1994
                                                ----------------------------------
                                                          (In thousands)
        <S>                                     <C>          <C>          <C>
        Balance at beginning of year........... $ 168,393    $153,798     $133,437
        Reserves acquired......................       402                    3,473
        Provision for loan losses..............    88,839      64,558       53,788
        Recoveries.............................    35,901      28,744       30,044
        Loans charged-off......................  (107,961)    (78,707)     (66,944)
                                                ----------------------------------
        Balance at end of year................. $ 185,574    $168,393     $153,798
                                                ==================================
</TABLE>

        The components of the net financing leases receivable at December 31,
were:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            1996             1995
                                                        ---------------------------
                                                               (In thousands)
        <S>                                             <C>               <C>
        Total minimum lease payments................... $ 495,820         $ 481,431
        Estimated residual value of leased property....   141,561           136,717
        Deferred origination costs.....................     2,564             2,498
                Less - Unearned financing income.......  (123,944)         (119,453)
                                                        ---------------------------
        Net minimum lease payments.....................   516,001           501,193
                Less - Allowance for loan losses.......    (3,415)           (6,252)
                                                        ---------------------------
                                                        $ 512,586         $ 494,941
                                                        ===========================
</TABLE>

        Estimated residual value is generally established at amounts expected to
be sufficient to cover the Corporations investment.

        At December 31, 1996, future minimum lease payments are expected to be
received as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     (In thousands)
                                     --------------
        <S>                             <C>
        1997........................... $178,878
        1998...........................  139,657
        1999...........................   97,852
        2000...........................   55,932 
        2001 and thereafter............   23,501
                                        --------
                                        $495,820
                                        ========
</TABLE>


F-50

<PAGE>   69


NOTE 7 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

        The Corporation grants loans to its directors, executive officers and to
certain related individuals or organizations in the ordinary course of business.
The movement and balance of these loans were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                Officers   Directors     Total
                                                -------------------------------
                                                         (In thousands)
        <S>                                     <C>       <C>         <C>
        Balance at January 1, 1995............. $ 4,317   $ 131,339   $ 135,656
        New loans..............................     180     258,259     258,439
        Payments...............................  (2,150)   (245,250)   (247,400)
                                                -------------------------------
        Balance at December 31, 1995...........   2,347     144,348     146,695
        New loans..............................     839     184,384     185,223
        Payments...............................    (211)   (200,345)   (200,556)
                                                -------------------------------
        Balance at December 31, 1996........... $ 2,975   $ 128,387   $ 131,362
                                                ===============================
</TABLE>

        These loans have been consummated on terms no more favorable than those
that would have been obtained if the transaction had been with unrelated
parties.

NOTE 8 - PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT:

        Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation
and amortization as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               Useful life
                                                                in years       1996             1995
                                                               ----------------------------------------
                                                                                  (In thousands)
        <S>                                                     <C>         <C>                <C>
        Land..................................................              $ 47,315           $ 47,196
                                                                            ---------------------------
        Buildings.............................................   15-50       208,317            197,747
        Equipment.............................................   3-10        280,945            238,547
        Leasehold improvements................................  Various       53,169             50,423
                                                                            ---------------------------
                                                                             542,431            486,717
        Less - Accumulated depreciation and amortization......               252,393            224,543
                                                                            ---------------------------
                                                                             290,038            262,174
                                                                            ---------------------------
        Construction in progress..............................                19,344             15,833
                                                                            ---------------------------
                                                                            $356,697           $325,203
                                                                            ===========================
</TABLE>

        Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment for the year
was $48,481,000 (1995 - $44,448,000; 1994 - $38,654,000) of which $9,943,000
(1995 - $9,261,000; 1994 - $8,497,000) was charged to occupancy expense and
$38,538,000 (1995 - $35,187,000; 1994 - $30,157,000) was charged to equipment,
communications and other operating expenses.  Occupancy expense is net of rental
income of $16,193,000 (1995 - $15,384,000; 1994 - $15,631,000).

        As a result of the adoption of SFAS 121, during 1996, the Corporation
recorded an impairment loss on a building of approximately $700,000, based on
its appraised value, which was included in other operating income in the
consolidated statement of income.

NOTE 9- DEPOSITS:

        Total interest bearing deposits as of December 31, consisted of:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           1996            1995
                                                        ---------------------------                  
                                                              (In thousands) 
        <S>                                             <C>              <C>
        Savings deposits:
                Savings accounts......................  $3,201,367       $2,998,529
                NOW and money market accounts.........   1,173,496        1,105,467
                                                        ---------------------------                  
                                                         4,374,863        4,103,996
                                                        ---------------------------                  
        Certificates of deposit:                                          
                Under $100,000........................   1,884,135        1,688,717
                $100,000 and over.....................   2,173,573        2,062,291
                                                        ---------------------------                  
                                                         4,057,708        3,751,008
                                                        ---------------------------                  
                                                        $8,432,571       $7,855,004
                                                        ===========================
</TABLE>


                                                                           F-51
<PAGE>   70

NOTE 10 - FEDERAL FUNDS PURCHASED AND SECURITIES SOLD UNDER AGREEMENTS TO
REPURCHASE:

        The following table summarizes certain information on federal funds
purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase as of December 31:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           1996             1995            1994
                                                        --------------------------------------------
                                                                   (Dollars in thousands)
        <S>                                             <C>              <C>              <C>
        Federal funds purchased........................ $  158,336       $  307,506       $  332,700
        Securities sold under agreements to repurchase.  1,717,129        2,693,372        1,105,338
                                                        --------------------------------------------
        Total amount outstanding....................... $1,875,465       $3,000,878       $1,438,038
                                                        ============================================
        Maximum aggregate balance outstanding
         at any month-end.............................. $2,922,611       $3,000,878       $1,444,148
                                                        ============================================
        Average daily aggregate balance outstanding.... $2,521,929       $2,016,273       $1,120,762
                                                        ============================================
        Weighted average interest rate:
                        For the year...................       5.12%            5.43%            3.81%
                        At December 31.................       5.16             5.61             5.27
</TABLE>


NOTE 11 - OTHER SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS:

        Other short-term borrowings as of December 31, consisted of:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   1996        1995
                                                                                ----------------------
                                                                                    (In thousands)
        <S>                                                                     <C>         <C>
        Advances under revolving lines of credit amounting to $240,000,000
                (1995 - $293,000,000) with fixed interest rates ranging 
                from 5.55% to 6.88% at December 31, 1996
                (1995 - 5.88% to 6.44%).......................................  $   65,000  $   34,400
        Commercial paper with various maturities until June 1997 at rates
                ranging from 5.05% to 5.75% (1995 - 5.55% to 6.44%)...........     290,091     174,728
        Term notes maturing in 1997, paying interest quarterly at floating
                interest rates ranging from 0.25% to 0.50% (1995 - 0.45%) 
                over the 3-month LIBOR rate (LIBOR rate at
                December 31, 1996 was 5.56%; 1995 - 5.63%)....................     189,961      14,984
        Term note maturing in 1997, paying interest quarterly at floating
                interest rate of 0.125% over the 6-month LIBOR rate 
                (LIBOR rate at December 31, 1996 was 5.60%)...................      10,000
        Term notes maturing in 1997, paying interest semiannually at rates
                ranging from 5.33% to 8.32%...................................     136,952
        Term funds purchased with maturities until October 1997 at rates
                ranging from 5.29% to 5.79%...................................     652,000
        Term notes maturing in 1996, paying interest quarterly at rates 
                ranging from 0.10% to 0.125% over the 3-month LIBOR rate 
                (LIBOR rate at December 31, 1995 was 5.63%)...................                  85,000
        Term notes due in 1996 paying interest semiannually at fixed rates                            
                ranging from 5.17% to 7.70%...................................                  84,946
        Advances under revolving lines of credit amounting to $214,000,000 
                with fixed interest rates ranging from 6.85% to 7.41% 
                at December 31, 1995..........................................                  34,600
        Securities sold not yet purchased.....................................      59,315      25,444
        Others................................................................         687         605
                                                                                ----------------------
                                                                                $1,404,006  $  454,707
                                                                                ======================
</TABLE>

        The weighted average interest rate of other short-term borrowings at
December 31, 1996 was 5.75% (1995 - 5.53%; 1994 - 4.83%). The maximum aggregate
balance outstanding at any month-end was approximately $1,404,006,000 (1995 -
$773,366,000; 1994 - $869,505,000). The average aggregate balance outstanding
during the year was approximately $883,739,000 (1995 - $529,111,000; 1994 -
$738,005,000). The weighted average interest rate during the year was 6.27%
(1995 - 6.05%; 1994 - 4.75%).


F-52
<PAGE>   71

NOTE 12 - NOTES PAYABLE:

        Notes payable outstanding at December 31, consisted of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                          1996     1995
                                                                                        ------------------
                                                                                          (In thousands)
                <S>                                                                     <C>       <C>
                Term notes with maturities ranging from 1998 through 2005
                        paying interest semiannually at fixed rates ranging
                        from 5.40% to 8.41% (1995 - 5.33% to 8.41%).................... $575,360  $367,492
                Term notes with maturities ranging from 1998 through 2000                          
                        paying interest quarterly at rates ranging from 0.125%                     
                        to 0.75% (1995 - 0.125% to 0.75%) over the 3-month LIBOR                   
                        rate and 3-month US Treasury Bill rate (LIBOR and US                       
                        Treasury Bill rates at December 31, 1996 were 5.56% and                    
                        5.17%, respectively; 1995 - 5.63% and 5.08%,                               
                        respectively)..................................................  117,356   254,146
                Promissory notes with maturities ranging from 1998                                 
                        through 2005 with fixed interest rates ranging from                        
                        4.51% to 6.35%.................................................  243,700    83,700
                Term notes maturing in 1998 paying interest monthly                                
                        at LIBOR less 3 basis points with a quarterly reset of                     
                        the interest rate..............................................   25,000    25,000
                Term notes maturing in 1999 paying interest monthly                                
                        at a fixed rate of 5.92%.......................................   25,000   
                Mortgage notes and other debt with fixed rates and terms...............      297        90
                                                                                        ------------------
                                                                                        $986,713  $730,428
                                                                                        ==================
</TABLE>

NOTE 13 - SENIOR DEBENTURES:

        Senior debentures at December 31, 1996, consisted of a $30,000,000
obligation issued by the Corporation with interest at a fixed rate of 8.25%,
which matured in January 1997.

        The senior debentures contained various covenants which, among others,
restricted the payment of dividends. These debentures prohibited the Corporation
from paying dividends or making any other distributions with respect to the
Corporations common stock if such aggregate distribution exceeded $50,000,000
plus 50% of consolidated net income (or minus 100% of consolidated net loss),
computed on a cumulative basis from January 1, 1992 to the date of payment of
any such dividends or other distributions or if an event of default had
occurred.

NOTE 14 - SUBORDINATED NOTES:

        Subordinated notes at December 31, consisted of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  1996       1995
                                                                                --------------------                    
                                                                                   (In thousands)
                <S>                                                             <C>         <C>
                Subordinated notes issued by the Corporation on December 12,
                        1995, maturing on December 15, 2005, with interest
                        payable semiannually at 6.75%.......................... $125,000    $125,000
                                                                                --------------------                    
                Subordinated notes issued by Banco Popular on                                       
                        March 29, 1989, which matured on June 15, 1996,                             
                        with interest payable quarterly and consisting of:                          
                        8.875% Fixed Rate Notes Series A.......................               15,000
                        8.6875% Fixed Rate Note Series B.......................               15,000
                        Floating Rate Notes Series A with interest payable at                       
                                88% of LIBID rate..............................               19,000
                        Floating Rate Notes Series B with interest payable at                       
                                86% of LIBID rate..............................                1,000
                                                                                --------------------                    
                                                                                              50,000
                                                                                --------------------                    
                                                                                $125,000    $175,000
                                                                                ====================
</TABLE>


                                                                           F-53
<PAGE>   72

        At December 31, 1995 the LIBID rate was 5.50%.

        The notes issued by the Corporation are unsecured obligations which are
subordinated in right of payment to the prior payment in full of all present
and future senior indebtedness of the Corporation.  These notes do not provide
for any sinking fund.

        The notes issued by Banco Popular were subordinated to the rights of
Banco Popular's depositors and other creditors and required Banco Popular to
set aside from retained earnings an amount equal to the principal payment on
each note to be used solely to increase capital.  The capital reserve account
was established to comply with the requirements of the subordinated notes. 
Banco Popular transferred to capital reserves from the retained earnings
account $7,143,000 and $8,857,000 during 1995 and 1994, respectively, as a
result of this requirement.  On June 15, 1996, at the notes repayment date,
the $50,000,000 balance in capital reserves was transferred to the surplus
account.  In addition, during 1994, $8,571,000 were transferred from capital
reserves to surplus upon prepayment of an 8.50% note originally maturing in
1996.

NOTE 15 - LONG-TERM DEBT MATURITY REQUIREMENTS:

        The aggregate amounts of maturities of notes payable, senior debentures
and subordinated notes were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  Notes       Senior       Subordinated
        Year                     payable    debentures        notes            Total
        -------------------------------------------------------------------------------                                
                                                      (In thousands)
        <S>                     <C>           <C>              <C>           <C>
        1997................... $     45      $30,000                        $   30,045
        1998...................  218,969                                        218,969
        1999...................  180,838                                        180,838
        2000...................  209,667                                        209,667
        2001...................  158,994                                        158,994
        Later years............  218,200                       $125,000         343,200
                                -------------------------------------------------------                                
        Total                   $986,713      $30,000          $125,000      $1,141,713
                                =======================================================
</TABLE>


NOTE 16 - PREFERRED STOCK OF BANCO POPULAR:

         Banco Popular has 200,000 shares of authorized preferred stock with a
par value of $100. This stock may be issued in series, and the shares of each
series shall have such rights and preferences as shall be fixed by the Board of
Directors when authorizing the issuance of that particular series. On June 30,
1994, Banco Popular redeemed at par value the 110,000 shares of Treasury Indexed
Preferred Stock Series A (TIPS) then outstanding.

NOTE 17 - STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY:

         On April 26, 1996, the Corporation's Board of Directors authorized a
stock split effected in the form of a dividend of one share of stock for each
share outstanding, effective July 1, 1996. As a result of the split, 33,000,590
shares were issued and $198,004,000 were transferred from retained earnings to
common stock. All per share data included herein has been adjusted to reflect
the stock split.

         On December 15, 1994, the Board of Directors of the Corporation
approved a stock repurchase program which allows the Corporation to repurchase
in the open market, at such times and prices as market conditions shall warrant,
up to one million shares of its outstanding common stock. No stock has been
repurchased under this program.

         The Corporation has a dividend reinvestment plan under which
stockholders may reinvest their quarterly dividends in shares of common stock at
a 5% discount from the market price at the time of issuance. During 1996,
191,236 shares (1995 - 221,016; 1994 - 211,412), equivalent to $4,135,000
(1995 - $3,500,000; 1994 - $3,196,000) in additional equity, were issued under
the plan.

         The Corporation has 10,000,000 shares of authorized preferred stock
with no par value. This stock may be issued in one or more series, and the
shares of each series shall have such rights and preferences as shall be fixed
by the Board of Directors when authorizing the issuance of that particular
series. One June 27, 1994, the Corporation issued 4,000,000 shares of Series A
preferred stock. These shares are non-convertible and are redeemable at the
option of the Corporation on or after June 30, 1998. The redemption price per
share is $26.25 from June 30, 1998 through June 29, 1999, $26.00 from June 30,
1999 through June 29, 2000, $25.75 from June 30, 2000 through June 29, 2001,
$25.50 from June 30, 2001 through June 29, 2002 and $25.00 from June 30, 2002
and thereafter. Dividends on the Series A preferred stock are non-cumulative and
are payable monthly at the annual rate of 8.35% of the liquidation preference of
$25.00 per share, or $0.173958 per share per month.


F-54
<PAGE>   73

         The Corporation's average number of common shares outstanding used in
the computation of net income per common share was 66,022,312 (1995 -
65,816,300; 1994 - 65,596,486). During the year, cash dividends of $0.69 (1995 -
$0.58; 1994 - $0.50) per common share outstanding amounting to $45,557,000
(1995 - $37,846,000; 1994 - $32,796,000) were declared. In addition, dividends
declared on preferred stock amounted to $8,350,000 (1995 - $8,350,000; 1994 -
$4,245,000).

NOTE 18 - REGULATORY CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS

         The Corporation is subject to various regulatory capital requirements
imposed by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital
requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional
discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct
material effect on the Corporation's financial statements. Under capital
adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action,
the Corporation must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative
measures of the Corporation's assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet
items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Corporation's
capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgements by
the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.

         Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital
adequacy require the Corporation to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of Tier
I and total capital to risk-weighted assets, and of Tier I capital to average
assets (leverage ratio) as defined in the regulations. Management has determined
that as of December 31, 1996, the Corporation exceeded all capital adequacy
requirements to which it is subject.

         As of December 31, 1996, the Corporation was well capitalized under the
regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. There are no conditions or
events since that notification that management believes have changed the
institution's category.

        The Corporations actual and required ratios and amounts of total
risk-based capital, Tier I risk-based capital and Tier I leverage, as of
December 31, were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  Regulatory requirements
                                                                         ---------------------------------------
                                                                                          To be well capitalized  
                                                                                               under prompt        
                                                       Actual             For capital       corrective action
                                                                        adequacy purposes       provisions
                                              ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 Amount      Ratio       Amount    Ratio    Amount     Ratio
                                              ------------------------------------------------------------------
As of December 31, 1996:                                               (In thousands)

<S>                                           <C>            <C>        <C>          <C>    <C>          <C>
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)
        Consolidated ....................     $1,367,478     14.18%     $771,505     8%     $964,382     10%
        Banco Popular ...................      1,017,755     12.57       647,624     8       809,530     10
        Banco Popular, FSB ..............        117,989     16.14        58,480     8        73,100     10

Tier I Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets):
        Consolidated ....................     $1,121,128     11.63%     $385,753     4%     $578,629      6%
        Banco Popular ...................        915,825     11.31       323,812     4       485,718      6
        Banco Popular, FSB ..............        108,751     14.88        29,240     4        43,860      6

Tier I Capital (to Average Assets):
        Consolidated ....................     $1,121,128      6.71%     $501,357     3%     $835,595      5%
        Banco Popular ...................        915,825      6.65       412,944     3       688,239      5
        Banco Popular, FSB ..............        108,751      8.99        36,300     3        60,500      5
</TABLE>


                                                                           F-55
<PAGE>   74
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                                       Regulatory requirements
                                                                              ---------------------------------------
                                                                                               To be well capitalized  
                                                                                                    under prompt        
                                                             Actual             For capital       corrective action
                                                                             adequacy purposes       provisions
                                                      ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                        Amount        Ratio       Amount    Ratio    Amount     Ratio
                                                      ------------------------------------------------------------------
As of December 31, 1995:                                                      (In thousands)


        <S>                                           <C>            <C>        <C>          <C>    <C>          <C>
        Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets):
                Consolidated ....................     $1,234,163     14.65%     $673,996     8%     $842,495     10%
                Banco Popular ...................        899,085     13.01       553,041     8       691,302     10
                Banco Popular, FSB ..............         84,388     15.48        43,615     8        54,518     10

        Tier I Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets):
                Consolidated ....................     $1,003,072     11.91%     $336,998     4%     $505,497      6%
                Banco Popular ...................        811,895     11.74       276,521     4       414,781      6
                Banco Popular, FSB ..............         77,502     14.22        21,807     4        32,711      6

        Tier I Capital (to Average Assets):
                Consolidated ....................     $1,003,072      6.66%     $451,813     3%     $753,022      5%
                Banco Popular ...................        811,895      6.45       377,457     3       629,094      5
                Banco Popular, FSB ..............         77,502      7.90        29,413     3        49,022      5
</TABLE>

NOTE 19 - INTEREST ON INVESTMENTS:

        Interest on investments consisted of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                              1996         1995         1994
                                                                           ----------------------------------
                                                                                      (In thousands) 
     <S>                                                                   <C>          <C>          <C>     
     Money market investments:
        Federal funds sold and securities
          and mortgages purchased under agreements to resell .........     $ 45,697     $ 22,823     $  4,858
        Time deposits with other banks ...............................          776          165          300
        Other ........................................................          224           89           28
                                                                           ----------------------------------
                                                                           $ 46,697     $ 23,077     $  5,186
                                                                           ==================================

     Investment securities:
        U.S. Treasury securities .....................................     $189,300     $167,657     $136,178
        Obligations of other
           U.S. Government agencies and corporations .................       43,157       35,697       29,088
        Obligations of Puerto Rico,
           States and political subdivisions .........................       10,902       12,948       12,132
        Collateralized mortgage obligations ..........................       26,265       26,435       24,525
        Mortgage-backed securities ...................................        6,456       10,892        9,485
        Other ........................................................        4,530        6,312        3,203
                                                                           ----------------------------------
                                                                           $280,610     $259,941     $214,611
                                                                           ==================================
</TABLE>


         Interest income on investment securities for the year ended December
31, 1996, includes tax exempt interest of $229,958,000 (1995 - $202,209,000;
1994 - $175,795,000). Exempt interest relates to obligations of the U.S., States
and Puerto Rico governments.

NOTE 20 - EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:

Pension plan:

         All regular employees of Banco Popular are covered by a
non-contributory defined benefit pension plan. Pension benefits begin to vest
after five years of service and are based on age, years of credited service and
final average compensation, as defined. At December 31, 1996, plan assets
consisted primarily of U.S. Government obligations, high grade corporate bonds
and listed

F-56
<PAGE>   75

stocks, including 2,836,430 shares (1995 - 2,836,430) of the Corporation with a
market value of approximately $95,730,000 (1995 - $54,956,000). Dividends paid
on shares of the Corporation held by the plan during 1996 amounted to $1,957,000
(1995 - $1,560,000).

         The following table sets forth the plans funded status and amounts
recognized in the consolidated financial statements at December 31: 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                              1996            1995
                                                                           -------------------------
                                                                                 (In thousands)
               <S>                                                         <C>            <C>       
               Actuarial present value of benefit obligations:
                       Vested benefits ...............................     $(172,272)     $(189,593)
                       Non-vested benefits ...........................       (38,117)        (7,283)
                                                                           -------------------------
               Accumulated benefit obligation ........................      (210,389)      (196,876)
               Effect of projected future compensation levels ........       (32,773)       (33,578)
                                                                           -------------------------
               Projected benefit obligation ..........................      (243,162)      (230,454)
               Plan assets at fair market value ......................       293,362        228,115
                                                                           -------------------------
               Plan assets in excess of (less than) projected
                       benefit obligation ............................        50,200         (2,339)
               Unrecognized net (gain) loss from past
                       experience different from that assumed
                       and effect of changes in assumptions ..........       (27,101)        26,673
               Unrecognized prior service cost .......................        (2,620)        (2,866)
               Unrecognized initial net assets .......................       (20,547)       (23,007)
                                                                           -------------------------
               Accrued pension cost ..................................     $     (68)     $  (1,539)
                                                                           =========================
</TABLE>

Net pension cost for the year ended December 31, included the following
components:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                              1996          1995           1994
                                                                           ------------------------------------
                                                                                       (In thousands)
               <S>                                                         <C>           <C>           <C>     
               Service costs - benefits earned during the period .....     $  9,860      $  6,791      $  8,359
               Interest cost on projected  benefit obligation ........       16,645        14,798        13,627
               Actual (return) loss on plan assets ...................      (68,965)      (48,665)        6,384
               Net amortization and deferral .........................       46,273        29,257       (27,066)
                                                                           ------------------------------------
               Net pension costs .....................................        3,813         2,181         1,304
               Cost of early retirement window .......................                      3,851              
                                                                           ------------------------------------
                       Total pension cost ............................     $  3,813      $  6,032      $  1,304
                                                                           ====================================
</TABLE>

         At December 31, 1996, the discount rate used in determining the
actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation was 7.50% (1995 -
7.25%; 1994 - 8.75%). Rates of future compensation levels reflected a 4%
inflation assumption plus a merit component ranging from 0.5% to 4.5% for 1996,
1995 and 1994. The expected long-term rate of return on assets used in the
computation was 9% for 1996, 1995 and 1994.

         In 1995, Banco Popular implemented a voluntary early retirement plan
("window") for employees meeting certain eligibility requirements. The plan was
available from January 1, 1995 until May 1, 1995, and had a total cost of
$4,539,000, including pension and postretirement benefit costs.

Retirement and savings plan:

         The Corporation also provides contributory retirement and savings plans
pursuant to sections 165(e) of the Puerto Rico Internal Revenue Code and section
401(k) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, as applicable, for substantially all
the employees of BP Capital, Equity One, Pioneer, Popular Consumer, Popular
Leasing, Popular Mortgage and Velco. Employer contributions are determined based
on specific provisions of each plan. The cost of providing this benefit in 1996
was $2,163,000 (1995 - $1,247,000; 1994 - $558,000).

         The Corporation also established in 1995 a contributory savings plan
available to employees of Banco Popular. Employees are fully vested in the
employer's contribution after seven years of service. All contributions are
invested in shares of the Corporation. Total savings plan expense was $863,000
in 1996 (1995 - $621,000). The savings plan held 368,117 (1995 - 140,970) shares
of common stock of the Corporation with a market value of approximately
$12,424,000 at December 31, 1996 (1995 $2,731,000).


                                                                            F-57
<PAGE>   76

Postretirement health care benefits:

         In addition to providing pension benefits, Banco Popular provides
certain health care benefits for retired employees. Substantially all of the
employees of Banco Popular who are eligible to retire under the pension plan,
and provided they reach retirement age while working for Banco Popular, may
become eligible for these benefits. The actual disbursement for providing these
benefits during 1996 amounted to approximately $2,556,000 (1995 - $2,152,000;
1994 - $2,072,000).

         The components of net postretirement benefit cost for the year ended
December 31, were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                             1996       1995        1994
                                                                           -----------------------------
                                                                                   (In thousands)

               <S>                                                         <C>         <C>        <C>   
               Service cost-benefits attributable to service
                       during the period .............................     $ 3,584     $2,658     $3,028
               Interest cost on accumulated postretirement
                        benefit obligation ...........................       5,719      5,435      4,277
               Net amortization and deferral .........................       1,230        597        585
                                                                           -----------------------------
                       Net postretirement benefit cost ...............      10,533      8,690      7,890
               Cost of early retirement window .......................                    688
                                                                           -----------------------------
                       Total postretirement benefit cost .............     $10,533     $9,378     $7,890
                                                                           =============================
</TABLE>

The status of the Corporations unfunded postretirement benefit plan at December
31, was as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                        1996          1995
                                                                                     -----------------------
                                                                                          (In thousands)
               <S>                                                                   <C>           <C>
               Actuarial present value of expected postretirement benefit
                   obligation:
                       Retirees ................................................     $(26,929)     $(23,419)
                       Fully eligible active plan participants .................      (12,569)      (16,507)
                       Other active plan participants ..........................      (44,470)      (45,745)
                                                                                     -----------------------
               Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation ...................      (83,968)      (85,671)
               Unrecognized net loss from past experience
                       different from that assumed and effects of
                       changes in assumptions ..................................       14,981        24,226
               Unrecognized prior service cost .................................        5,376         5,811
                                                                                     -----------------------
               Accrued postretirement benefit cost .............................     $(63,611)     $(55,634)
                                                                                     =======================
</TABLE>

        The weighted average discount rate used in determining the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation at December 31, 1996 was 7.50% (1995 - 7.25%).

        The assumed health care cost trend rate used in measuring the
accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at December 31, 1995 was 11%,
gradually decreasing to 5% by the year 2001 and remaining at that level
thereafter. A one-percentage point increase in the health care cost trend rate
would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December
31, 1996, by $14,369,000 and the sum of the service and interest cost in 1996 by
$1,864,000.

Profit sharing plan:

        Banco Popular also has a profit sharing plan covering substantially all
regular employees. Annual contributions are determined based on the bank's
profitability ratios, as defined in the plan, and are deposited in trust. Profit
sharing expense for the year amounted to $22,859,000 (1995 - $19,577,000; 1994 -
$19,967,000).

Long-term incentive plan:

        Banco Popular established in 1994 a long-term incentive plan for its
senior management. Under this plan, each January 1st the Board of Directors
awards senior management a specified number of shares of common stock of the
Corporation contingent upon reaching some pre-defined performance measures over
periods of three years. The dividends attributable to these shares are also part
of the award. The final number of shares awarded is subject to a factor based on
the level of attainment. Banco Popular applied APB Opinion 25 and related
Interpretations in accounting for the plans in 1994 and 1995. Accordingly,
compensation expense was recognized based on the prevailing stock price until
measurement date. The measurement date is the date when the ultimate number of
shares to be granted is known.

F-58
<PAGE>   77

         The 1996 awards are being accounted for under the provisions of SFAS
123, therefore, compensation cost is determined based on the fair value of the
stock at the grant date. The compensation expense related to each award is
recognized when probable, based on the best estimate of the outcome of the
performance condition, on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.

         The compensation cost recognized for the performance-based plan was
$837,000 in 1996 (1995 - $284,000; 1994 - $135,000).

Puerto Rico benefit restoration plan:

         Banco Popular also has a non-qualified unfunded supplementary pension
and profit sharing plan for those employees whose compensation exceeds the 
limits established by ERISA.

        The following table sets forth the amounts recognized in the
consolidated financial statements at December 31, for the benefit restoration
plan:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                              1996         1995
                                                                           ---------------------
                                                                                (In thousands)
               <S>                                                         <C>          <C>     
               Actuarial present value of  benefit obligations:
                       Vested benefits ...............................     $  (324)     $   (83)
                       Non-vested benefits ...........................                       (1)
                                                                           ---------------------

                       Accumulated benefit obligation ................        (324)         (84)

               Effect of projected future compensation levels ........      (1,849)      (1,130)
                                                                           ---------------------

                       Projected benefit obligation ..................      (2,173)      (1,214)

               Unrecognized net loss from past
                       experience different from that assumed
                       and effect of changes in assumptions ..........         847          164

               Unrecognized prior service cost .......................         624          678
                                                                           ---------------------

               Accrued supplementary pension cost ....................     $  (702)     $  (372)
                                                                           =====================
</TABLE>


        Net supplementary pension cost for the year ended December 31, included
the following components:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                 1996     1995      1994
                                                                 -----------------------
                                                                      (In thousands)

               <S>                                               <C>      <C>      <C> 
               Service costs - benefits earned
                       during the period ...................     $172     $109     $ 62
               Interest cost on projected benefit
                       obligation ..........................       94       69       43
               Net amortization and deferral ...............       64       53       36
                                                                 -----------------------

               Net supplementary pension cost ..............     $330     $231     $141
                                                                 =======================
</TABLE>


                                                                            F-59
<PAGE>   78


NOTE 21 - RENTAL EXPENSE AND COMMITMENTS:

At December 31, 1996, the Corporation was obligated under a number of
non-cancelable leases for land, buildings, and equipment which require rentals
(net of related sublease rentals) as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                        Minimum      Sublease
               Year                     payments      rentals      Net
               --------------------------------------------------------
                                                   (In thousands)

               <S>                      <C>         <C>         <C>    
               1997................     $11,857     $   711     $11,146
               1998................      10,672         656      10,016
               1999................       9,606         354       9,252
               2000................       8,473         231       8,242
               2001................       7,062         195       6,867
               Later years ........      51,892         565      51,327
                                        -------------------------------
                                        $99,562     $ 2,712     $96,850
                                        ===============================
</TABLE>


        Total rental expense for the year ended December 31, 1996, was
$21,196,000 (1995 - $18,037,000; 1994 - $16,705,000).

NOTE 22 - INCOME TAX:

        The components of income tax expense for the years ended December 31,
are summarized below. Included in these amounts are income taxes related to the
gain on securities transactions of $1,480,000 in 1996 (1995 - $1,981,000; 1994 -
$64,000).
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                          1996         1995           1994
                                                                      -------------------------------------
                                                                                   (In thousands)
               <S>                                                    <C>            <C>           <C>     
               Current income tax expense:
                       Puerto Rico ..............................     $  84,668      $ 58,067      $ 31,461
                       Federal and States .......................        18,192         9,624         6,235
                                                                      -------------------------------------
                               Subtotal .........................       102,860        67,691        37,696
                                                                      =====================================

               Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
                       Puerto Rico ..............................       (26,769)       (9,501)       11,606
                       Federal and States .......................        (5,214)        1,006          (759)
                       Adjustment for enacted changes
                         in income tax laws .....................                         573         1,500
                                                                      -------------------------------------
                               Subtotal .........................       (31,983)       (7,922)       12,347
                                                                      =====================================
                               Total income tax expense .........     $  70,877      $ 59,769      $ 50,043
                                                                      =====================================
</TABLE>


        The reasons for the difference between the income tax expense applicable
to income before provision for income taxes and the amount computed by applying
the statutory rate were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                        1996                     1995                   1994
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                    % of pre-tax            % of pre-tax            % of pre-tax
                                                                 Amount      Income       Amount     Income       Amount     Income
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                         (Dollars in thousands)
               <S>                                              <C>            <C>      <C>            <C>      <C>            <C>
               Computed income tax at 
                       statutory rate .....................     $ 99,851       39%      $ 86,574       42%      $ 73,574       42%
               Benefits of net tax exempt
                       interest income ....................      (29,118)     (11)       (24,604)     (12)       (25,297)     (14)
               Federal and States taxes and other .........          144                  (2,201)      (1)         1,766        1
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------------------
               Income tax expense .........................     $ 70,877       28%      $ 59,769       29%      $ 50,043       29%
                                                                ==================================================================
</TABLE>
         In October 1994, a Tax Reform Act was enacted in Puerto Rico. In
general terms, the Tax Reform is effective for taxable years beginning after
June 30, 1995. Among its provisions, the Act reduced the maximum tax rate for
corporations from 42% to 39%.

F-60
<PAGE>   79

The deferred taxes of the Corporation were adjusted accordingly in 1994 and
1995, to reflect this tax rate reduction on those temporary differences and tax
attributes that were expected to reverse or settle on or after January 1, 1996.
The Act also repealed the reserve method of determining losses on loans and
requires taxpayers to use the direct charge-off method and recapture the reserve
balance at December 31, 1995 into income for tax purposes over a four-year
period. As a result of this change, the Corporation is required to pay
$14,640,000 annually from 1996 through 1999. A deferred tax asset is recorded
accordingly, to recognize the difference between the tax and accounting bases
of the allowance for loan losses.


         Under SFAS 109, deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of
temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for
financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes.
Significant components of the Corporations deferred tax assets and liabilities
at December 31, were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                           1996         1995
                                                                                          -------------------
                                                                                             (In thousands) 
               <S>                                                                        <C>         <C>    
               Deferred tax assets:

               Alternative minimum tax credits available for
                       carryforward and other credits ...............................     $24,303     $26,613


               Net operating loss carryforwards available ...........................         292       1,418
               Postretirement benefit obligation
                       (other than pensions) ........................................      24,966      21,708
               Allowance for loan losses ............................................      18,670        
               Other temporary differences ..........................................      22,144      16,745
                                                                                          -------------------
               Total gross deferred tax assets ......................................      90,375      66,484

               Deferred tax liabilities:

               Differences between the assigned values and the
                       tax bases of assets and liabilities recognized
                       in purchase business combinations ............................      17,735      19,477
               Other temporary differences ..........................................       7,910      13,049
                                                                                          -------------------

               Total gross deferred tax liabilities .................................      25,645      32,526
                                                                                          -------------------
               Valuation allowance ..................................................         577       1,788
                                                                                          -------------------
               Net deferred tax asset ...............................................     $64,153     $32,170
                                                                                          ===================
</TABLE>

         At December 31, 1996, the Corporation had $24,303,000 in alternative
minimum tax credits and other credits expiring in annual installments through
year 2014 that will reduce the regular income tax liability in future years.
During 1996, the Corporation used alternative minimum tax (AMT) and other
credits totaling $1,720,000 (1995 - $7,432,000) to reduce its regular tax
liability. The Corporation had, at the end of 1996, $748,000 in net operating
losses (NOL) available to carry over to offset taxable income in future years.
These NOLs are available to carryforward until year 2000. During 1996, the
Corporation used NOL carryforwards amounting to $2,645,000 to reduce its regular
taxable income. Other temporary differences included as deferred assets are
mainly due to the temporary differences arising from the deferral of loan
origination costs and commissions.

         In accordance with SFAS 109, a deferred tax liability was created on
differences between the assigned values and the tax bases of assets and
liabilities related with purchase business combinations and for other temporary
differences.

         A valuation allowance of $577,000 (1995 - $1,788,000) is reflected in
1996, related to deferred tax assets arising from NOL carryforwards and
temporary differences for which the Corporation could not determine the
likelihood of its realizability. Based on the information available, the
Corporation expects to fully realize all other items comprising the net deferred
tax as of December 31, 1996.

         Under the Puerto Rico Income Tax Law, the Corporation and its
subsidiaries are treated as separate taxable entities and are not entitled to
file consolidated tax returns. Until December 31, 1995, dividends received by
the Corporation from its subsidiaries (net of an 85% dividend received deduction
allowed by the former Puerto Rico Income Tax Law) were subject to Puerto Rico
income tax at the normal corporate tax rates. Technical amendments to the Puerto
Rico Income Tax Reform provide a 100% dividend received deduction, effective on
January 1, 1996. In previous years, the Corporation did not recognize a deferred
tax liability on the unremitted earnings of domestic subsidiaries since the
Puerto Rico Income Tax Law provided certain alternatives to remit those earnings
to the Corporation on a tax-free basis.

                                                                            F-61
<PAGE>   80
         The Corporation's subsidiaries in the United States file a consolidated
federal income tax return. The Corporation's federal income tax provision for
1996 was $12,281,000 (1995 - $9,265,000, 1994 - $4,297,000). The intercompany
settlements of taxes paid is based on tax sharing agreements which generally
allocates taxes to each entity based on a separate return basis.

NOTE 23 - OFF-BALANCE SHEET LENDING ACTIVITIES AND CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK:

Off-balance sheet risk:

         The Corporation is a party to financial instruments with off-balance
sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financial needs of its
customers and to manage its own risk arising from movements in interest rates.
These financial instruments include loan commitments, letters of credit, standby
letters of credit, futures contracts, options on futures contracts, interest
rate swaps and caps and foreign exchange contracts. These instruments involve,
to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the
amount recognized in the consolidated statement of condition. The contract or
notional amount of these instruments, which are not included in the statement of
condition, is an indicator of the Corporation's activities in particular classes
of financial instruments.

         The Corporation's exposure to credit loss in the event of
non-performance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments
to extend credit, standby letters of credit and financial guarantees written is
represented by the contractual notional amounts of those instruments. The
Corporation uses the same credit policies in making these commitments and
conditional obligations as it does for those reflected on the statement of
condition.

         Financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk at December 31, whose
contract amounts represent potential credit risk were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                    1996           1995
                                                                                 -------------------------
                                                                                        (In thousands) 
               <S>                                                               <C>            <C>       
               Commitments to extend credit:
                       Credit card lines ...................................     $  915,589     $  846,732
                       Commercial lines of credit ..........................      1,374,670      1,105,219
                       Other unused commitments ............................         48,693         11,898
               Commercial letters of credit ................................         21,921         19,012
               Standby letters of credit ...................................        115,681        119,983
               Commitments to purchase mortgage and consumer loans .........          2,203         69,539
</TABLE>

Commitments to extend credit:

         Contractual commitments to extend credit are legally binding agreements
to lend money to customers at predetermined interest rates for a specified
period of time. To extend credit the Corporation evaluates each customer's
creditworthiness. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary, is
based on management's credit evaluation of the counterparty. Collateral held
varies but may include cash, accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant and
equipment and investment securities, among others. The Corporation's exposure to
credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the customer is represented by the
contractual amount of the commitment to extend credit. Since many of the loan
commitments may expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amount
does not necessarily represent future cash requirements.

Letters of credit:

         There are two principal types of letters of credit: commercial and
standby letters of credit. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit
is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to
customers. In most instances, cash items are held by the Corporation to
collateralize these instruments.

         In general, commercial letters of credit are short-term instruments
used to finance a commercial contract for the shipment of goods from a seller to
a buyer. This type of letter of credit ensures prompt payment to the seller in
accordance with the terms of the contract. Although the commercial letter of
credit is contingent upon the satisfaction of specified conditions, it
represents a credit exposure if the buyer defaults on the underlying
transaction.

         Standby letters of credit are also issued by the Corporation to
disburse funds to a third party beneficiary if the Corporation's customer fails
to perform under the terms of an agreement with the beneficiary. These letters
of credit are used by the customer as a credit enhancement and typically expire
without being drawn upon.

F-62
<PAGE>   81

Other commitments:

         The Corporation entered into a commitment to purchase up to
$100,000,000 of mortgage loans from another institution. This commitment expires
on March 13, 1997. The purchased mortgage loans will continue to be serviced by
the originating institution. As of December 31, 1996, loans purchased under this
agreement totaled $97,797,000 and were classified as loans held-for-sale.

Geographic concentration:

         A geographic concentration exists within the Corporation's loan
portfolio since most of its business activity is with customers located in
Puerto Rico. As of December 31, 1996, the Corporation had no significant
concentrations of credit risk and no significant exposure to highly leveraged
transactions in its loan portfolio.

The asset composition of the Corporation by geographical area at December 31,
was as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                 1996                     1995
                                                                      -------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    (Dollars in thousands)

                       <S>                                            <C>             <C>        <C>             <C>  
                       Puerto Rico                                    $12,386,136      73.9%     $11,833,155      75.5%
                       United States                                    3,756,526      22.4        3,253,791      20.7
                       U.S. and British Virgin
                               Islands and Latin America                  621,441       3.7          588,505       3.8
                                                                      -------------------------------------------------
                                                                      $16,764,103     100.0%     $15,675,451     100.0%
                                                                      =================================================
</TABLE>

         Included in total assets of Puerto Rico are investments in obligations
of the U.S. Treasury and U.S. Government agencies amounting to $2.9 billion and
$3.4 billion in 1996 and 1995, respectively.

NOTE 24 - DISCLOSURES ABOUT FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS:

         The information about the estimated fair values of financial
instruments required by generally accepted accounting principles is presented
hereunder including some items not recognized in the statement of condition.

         A financial instrument is defined as cash, evidence of an ownership
interest in an entity, or a contract that creates a contractual obligation or
right to deliver to or receive cash or another financial instrument from a
second entity on potentially favorable terms with the first entity. All
nonfinancial instruments and certain other specific items are excluded from the
fair value disclosure requirements

         For those financial instruments with no quoted market prices available,
fair values have been estimated using present value or other valuation
techniques. These techniques are inherently subjective and are significantly
affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rates, estimates of
future cash flows and prepayment assumptions. In that regard, the derived fair
value estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets
and, in many cases, could not be realized in immediate settlement of the
instrument.

         The fair values reflected herein have been determined based on the
prevailing interest rate environment as of December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively. In different interest rate environments, fair value results can
differ significantly, specially for certain fixed rate financial instruments and
non-accrual assets. In addition, the fair values presented do not attempt to
estimate the value of the Corporation's fee generating businesses and
anticipated future business activities, that is, they do not represent the
Corporation's value as a going concern. Accordingly, the aggregate fair value
amounts presented do not represent the underlying value of the Corporation.

         The estimated fair values of the Corporation's financial instruments,
their carrying value and the methodologies used to estimate fair values are
presented below.

Short-term financial instruments:

         Short-term financial instruments, both assets and liabilities, have
been valued at their carrying amounts as reflected in the Corporation's
Consolidated Statements of Condition. For these financial instruments, the
carrying value may approximate fair value because of the relatively short period
of time between the origination of the instruments and their expected
realization. Included in this category are: cash and due from banks, federal
funds sold and securities and mortgages purchased under agreements to resell,
time deposits with other banks, bankers' acceptances, customers' liabilities on
acceptances, accrued interest receivable, securities sold under agreements to
repurchase, acceptances outstanding and accrued interest payable.



                                                                            F-63
<PAGE>   82

Investment and trading securities:

         Investment and trading securities are financial instruments which trade
regularly on secondary markets. The estimated fair value of these securities was
determined using either market prices or dealer quotes, where available, or
quoted market prices of financial instruments with similar characteristics. The
fair value of investment securities available-for-sale and trading securities
equals their carrying value since they are marked-to-market for accounting
purposes. These instruments are detailed in the Statements of Condition and in
notes 3, 4 and 25.

Loans held-for-sale:

         Estimated fair value of loans held-for-sale as of December 31, 1996,
was $257,183,000 (1995 - $124,877,000) based on secondary market prices.

Loans:

         Estimated fair values have been determined for groups of loans with
similar financial characteristics. Loans were segregated by type such as
commercial, construction, residential mortgage, consumer and credit cards. Each
loan category was further segmented based on collateral, interest repricing and
accrual vs. non-accrual status. For variable rate loans with frequent repricing
terms and no significant change in credit risk, fair values were based on
carrying values.

         Commercial loans with fixed rates were segregated into commercial real
estate, cash collateral and other. Consumer loans were segregated by type such
as personal, auto, boat, student, credit cards, reserve lines and home equity
loans. Personal loans were further subdivided in mortgage-guaranteed, cash
collateral and unsecured. The fair values of fixed-rate commercial, construction
and consumer loans were estimated by discounting scheduled cash flows using
prevailing market rates for those loans. For non-accruing loans, the estimated
fair values were based on the discounted value of estimated cash flows. For
these loans, principal-only cash flows were adjusted to reflect projected
charge-offs. Interest cash flows were determined based on historical collection
experience. Residential mortgage loans were valued using quoted market prices,
where available, and market prices of traded loans with similar credit ratings,
interest rates and maturity dates adjusted for estimated prepayments. Generally
accepted accounting principles do not require, nor the Corporation has
performed, a fair valuation of its lease financing portfolio. Therefore, for
presentation purposes only, leases are shown below with fair value equal to its
carrying value.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                 1996                         1995
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                       Estimated                     Estimated
                                                                     Carrying value    fair value  Carrying value    fair value
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                             (In thousands)

                       <S>                                             <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>       
                       Commercial ................................     $3,822,096     $3,821,956     $3,205,031     $3,210,962
                       Construction ..............................        200,083        200,576        215,835        211,469
                       Lease financing ...........................        516,001        516,001        498,750        498,750
                       Mortgage ..................................      2,381,332      2,399,493      2,320,786      2,350,543
                       Consumer (including credit cards) .........      2,604,387      2,656,156      2,324,276      2,264,492
                       Less:  Allowance for loan losses ..........        185,574                       168,393           
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       $9,338,325     $9,594,182     $8,396,285     $8,536,216
                                                                     ==========================================================
</TABLE>

Deposits:

         As specified by SFAS 107, "Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial
Instruments," the fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as
non-interest bearing demand deposits, savings, NOW and money market accounts,
which at December 31, 1996 and 1995, comprised 62% of the Corporation's total
deposits, is equal to the amount payable on demand as of the respective dates.
The fair value of certificates of deposit is based on the discounted value of
contractual cash flows. The discount rate is estimated using the rates offered
at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively, for deposits with similar remaining
maturities.

F-64
<PAGE>   83

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                     1996                            1995
                                                         ------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                            Estimated                       Estimated
                                                         Carrying value     fair value   Carrying value    fair value
                                                         ------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                  (In thousands)
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------
               <S>                                         <C>             <C>             <C>            <C>       
               Non-interest bearing deposits .........     $ 2,330,704     $ 2,330,704     $2,021,658     $2,021,658
               Savings accounts ......................       3,201,367       3,201,367      2,998,529      2,998,529
               NOW and money market
                       accounts ......................       1,173,496       1,173,496      1,105,467      1,105,467
               Certificates of deposit ...............       4,057,708       4,060,727      3,751,008      3,795,430
                                                         -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                           $10,763,275     $10,766,294     $9,876,662     $9,921,084
                                                         ===========================================================
</TABLE>

Borrowings and long-term debt:

         Borrowings and long-term debt, which include other short-term
borrowings, notes payable, senior debentures and subordinated notes, were valued
using quoted market rates for similar instruments at December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively. Included within other short-term borrowings at December 31, 1996,
were $290,091,000 (1995 - $174,728,000) in commercial paper issued by the
Corporation which has been valued at its carrying amount because of the
relatively short period of time between its origination and maturity.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                   1996                      1995
                                                       ------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        Estimated                   Estimated
                                                       Carrying value  fair value  Carrying value   fair value
                                                       ------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                (In thousands)
                                                       ------------------------------------------------------------

               <S>                                     <C>            <C>            <C>          <C>     
               Other short-term borrowings .......     $1,404,006     $1,404,744     $454,707     $454,738
               Notes payable .....................        986,713        989,970      730,428      737,662
               Senior debentures .................         30,000         30,000       30,000       29,686
               Subordinated notes ................        125,000        116,699      175,000      174,004
</TABLE>

Commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit:

         Commitments to extend credit were fair valued using the fees currently
charged to enter into similar agreements. For those commitments where a future
stream of fees is charged, the fair value was estimated by discounting the
projected cash flows of fees on commitments which are expected to be disbursed,
based on historical experience. The fair value of letters of credit is based on
fees currently charged on similar agreements. At December 31, 1996, the
Corporation had $2,338,952,000 and $137,602,000 in commitments to extend credit
and letters of credit, respectively (1995 - $1,963,849,000 and $138,995,000).
The estimated fair value of these financial instruments with no carrying value
was $9,137,000 (1995 - $10,778,000).

NOTE 25 - RISK MANAGEMENT AND TRADING ACTIVITIES

         The Corporation's exposure to market risk relates to changes in
interest rates or in the fair value of the underlying financial instruments and,
to a limited extent, to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. The
operations are subject to the risk of interest rate fluctuations to the extent
that interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities mature or reprice
at different times or in differing amounts.

         Risk management activities are aimed at optimizing net interest income,
consistent with the Corporation's business strategies. Among the various methods
used by the Corporation to measure the risks generated by assets and liabilities
are beta-adjusted gap analysis, simulations and duration analysis.

         In managing its market risk the Corporation enters, to a limited
extent, into certain derivative instruments that expose it to credit risk, which
represent the risk that the counterparties might default on their obligations.
To manage the level of credit risk the Corporation deals with counterparties of
good credit standing, enters into master netting agreements whenever possible
and, when appropriate, obtains collateral. Concentrations of credit risk which
arise through the Corporation's trading and nontrading activities are presented
in Note 23.

         The following table indicates the types of derivative financial
instruments the Corporation held at December 31. The credit exposure is
represented by the fair value of the instruments with a positive market value.
The table should be read in conjunction with the descriptions of these products
and the Corporation's objectives for holding them immediately following.


                                                                            F-65
<PAGE>   84

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                          1996                                 1995
                                                          ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Notional  Average for the   Fair      Notional   Average for the   Fair
                                                           amount          year       value      amount         year        value
                                                          ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                        (In thousands)
               <S>                                     <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>         <C> 
               Interest rate swaps:
                  Pay floating/receive fixed ........     $ 25,000     $ 21,250     $    98      $ 10,000     $10,000     $     43
                  Pay fixed/receive floating ........      115,000      115,000         (13)      115,000      53,300       (1,261)
                  Interest rate caps ................                                                          13,250      
                  Interest rate swaptions ...........       22,149       14,683       1,233         9,889       9,324        2,572
                  Foreign exchange contracts ........          178          748                       963         484 
</TABLE>

Interest rate swaps:

         Interest rate swap agreements generally involve the exchange of fixed
and floating rate interest payment obligations without the exchange of the
underlying principal. Net interest settlements on interest rate swaps are
recorded as an adjustment to interest income or interest expense of the hedged
item.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
                                                             1996                          1995
                                                        -------------------------------------------
                                                                     (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                                     <C>                         <C>            
Activity of interest rate swaps hedges for          
    the year:
               Beginning balance ..................     $       125,000             $        10,000
               New swaps ..........................              15,000                     115,000
                                                        -------------------------------------------
               Ending balance .....................     $       140,000             $       125,000
                                                        ===========================================
               Average receive rate range .........       5.50% to 6.72%              5.81% to 6.72%
               Average pay rate range .............       5.81% to 7.89%              5.69% to 6.53%
</TABLE>

         The agreements were entered into to change the Corporation's interest
rate exposure and they end at the time the related obligation matures. The
variable rates are based on the three-month and six-month LIBOR rates.
Nonperformance by any of the counterparties on this agreement will expose the
Corporation to an interest rate risk which management deems to be immaterial.

Interest rate caps:

         The Corporation uses protected interest rate agreements (CAPS) to
reduce its vulnerability to adverse interest rate fluctuations. Interest rate
caps are option-like contracts where the Corporation pays an up front premium
for the right to receive the amount, if any, by which a specified market
interest rate exceeds the fixed cap rate. The premium paid is amortized to
income over the life of the agreement.

Foreign exchange contracts:

         To satisfy the needs of its customers, from time to time, the
Corporation enters into foreign exchange contracts in the spot or futures
market. Spot contracts require the exchange of two currencies at an agreed rate
to occur within two business days of the contract date. Forward and futures
contracts to purchase or sell currencies at a future date settle over periods of
up to one year, in general. Future and forward contracts are recorded at market
value.

Securities sold not yet purchased:

         The Corporation enters in securities sold not yet purchased
transactions for hedging strategies and for trading purposes. Various assets and
liabilities, such as investment securities financed by borrowings, are usually
hedged to lock-in spreads and reduce the risk of losses in value due to interest
rate fluctuations. At December 31, 1996, securities sold short amounting to
$59,315,000 (1995 - $25,444,000) were used to hedge $59,819,000 (1995 -
$30,461,000) of auto loans held-for-sale. The securities sold short are recorded
as other short-term borrowings on the statements of condition at market. Gains
and losses are deferred until gains or losses on the related hedged item are
recognized. At December 31, 1996, the Corporation had deferred gains and losses
of $195,000 and $41,000, respectively, related to these activities. At December
31, 1995, there were no deferred gains and losses from these activities.

         Open positions on securities sold short for trading purposes are
usually closed at each month-end. The volume of such transactions is not
significant, as further discussed.


F-66
<PAGE>   85

Trading activities:

         The Corporation maintains limited trading positions in certain
financial instruments and nonfinancial contracts including, to a limited extent,
derivatives. Most of the Corporation's trading activities are limited to the
purchase of debt securities for the purpose of selling them in the near term and
positioning securities for resale to retail customers. Trading activities of the
Corporation are subject to strict guidelines approved by the Board of Directors
and included in the investment policy.

         In anticipation of customer demand, the Corporation carries an
inventory of capital market instruments and maintains market liquidity by
quoting bid and offer prices to and trading with other market makers. Positions
are also taken in interest rate sensitive instruments, based on expectations of
future market conditions. These activities constitute the proprietary trading
business and are held by the Corporation to provide customers with financial
products at competitive prices. As trading strategies depend on both
market-making and proprietary positions, given the relationships between
instruments and markets, those activities are managed in concert to maximize net
trading revenue.

         All trading instruments are subject to market risk, the risk that
future changes in market conditions may make an instrument less valuable or more
onerous. For example, fluctuations in market prices, interest rates or exchange
rates change the market value of the instruments. As the instruments are
recognized at market value, these changes directly affect reported income.
Exposure to market risk is managed, in accordance with risk limits set by senior
management, by buying or selling instruments or entering into offsetting
positions.

         The contract amounts of futures and options written for trading
purposes were $3,210,000 and $6,079,000, respectively, at December 31, 1996. For
1995, the contract amount of forwards, futures and options were $9,900,000,
$16,416,000 and $11,692,000, respectively. The following tables indicates the
fair value and net gains (losses) of derivatives financial instruments held for
trading purposes.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                            Fair Value
                                                ---------------------------------------------------------------   
                                                 At December 31, 1996       Average for the period    Net gains
                                                 Assets    Liabilities      Assets     Liabilities     (losses)
                                                ---------------------------------------------------------------   
                                                                              (In thousands)
               <S>                                 <C>         <C>           <C>           <C>          <C>   
               Futures contracts ........          $0          $135          $140          $34          $(274)
               Options ..................           0            73             0           48            121
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                            Fair Value
                                                ---------------------------------------------------------------   
                                                 At December 31, 1996       Average for the period    Net gains
                                                 Assets    Liabilities      Assets     Liabilities     (losses)
                                                ---------------------------------------------------------------   
                                                                              (In thousands)

               <S>                                 <C>         <C>           <C>           <C>          <C>   
               Forwards and futures
                 contracts ..............          $0          $680          $  0          $349         $(2,429)
               Options ..................           0            45            68           139           2,393
</TABLE>

         The Corporation's credit exposure from off-balance sheet derivative
financial instruments held or issued for trading purposes is represented by the
fair value of the instruments with a positive fair value at that date.

NOTE 26 - SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE ON THE CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS:

         During the year ended December 31, 1996, the Corporation paid interest
and income taxes amounting to $579,733,000 and $76,324,000, respectively (1995 -
$515,960,000 and $42,383,000; 1994 - $339,329,000 and $27,052,000). In addition,
loans transferred to other real estate and other property for the year ended
December 31, 1996, amounted to $3,333,000 and $5,640,000, respectively (1995 -
$5,404,000 and $3,792,000). In December 1995, the Corporation transferred
$1,323,000,000 from securities held-to-maturity to securities
available-for-sale.

NOTE 27 - CONTINGENT LIABILITIES:

         The Corporation is a defendant in a number of legal proceedings arising
in the normal course of business. Management believes, based on the opinion of
legal counsel, that the final disposition of these matters will not have a
material adverse effect on the Corporation's financial position or results of
operations.

                                                                            F-67
<PAGE>   86

NOTE 28 - BANPONCE CORPORATION (HOLDING COMPANY ONLY) FINANCIAL INFORMATION:

         The following condensed financial information presents the financial
position of the Holding Company only as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 and the
results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 1996.

                            STATEMENTS OF CONDITION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        December 31,
                                                               --------------------------
                                                                     1996          1995
                                                               --------------------------
                                                                       (In thousands)
<S>                                                            <C>             <C>  
ASSETS
Cash ....................................................      $      191      $      213
Money market investments ................................          55,024           7,460
Investment securities available-for-sale, at 
 market value............................................          69,486          69,816
Investment in Banco Popular, at equity ..................       1,009,648         896,427
Investment in Pioneer Bancorp, at equity ................          39,820          38,531
Investment in Banco Popular, FSB, at equity .............         130,577         103,688
Investment in CombanCorp, at equity .....................          12,566
Investment in other subsidaries, at equity ..............          47,365          46,703
Advances to subsidiaries ................................         634,257         533,317
Premises and equipment ..................................          39,176          40,793
Other assets ............................................           3,348           2,434
                                                               --------------------------
                Total assets ............................      $2,041,458      $1,739,382
                                                               ==========================

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase ..........      $   52,084      $   52,275
Commercial paper ........................................         164,379         174,728
Other short-term borrowings .............................          65,000          34,400
Notes payable ...........................................         320,539         162,500
Senior debentures .......................................          30,000          30,000
Accrued expenses and other liabilities ..................          21,924          18,782
Subordinated notes ......................................         125,000         125,000
Stockholders' equity ....................................       1,262,532       1,141,697
                                                               --------------------------
                Total liabilities and stockholders' 
                 equity .................................      $2,041,458      $1,739,382
                                                               ==========================
</TABLE>

                              STATEMENTS OF INCOME
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                   Year ended December 31,
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                                                                               1996          1995          1994
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                                                                                          (In thousands)
<S>                                                                         <C>           <C>           <C>     
Income:
        Dividends from subsidiaries ..................................      $ 42,608      $ 76,600      $ 32,189
        Interest on money market and investment securities ...........         4,828         3,897         1,606
        Other operating income .......................................         2,394         1,347             7
        Interest on advances to subsidiaries .........................        42,047        26,258        11,750
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                Total income .........................................        91,877       108,102        45,552
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Expenses:
        Interest expense .............................................        42,761        25,824         8,530
        Operating expenses ...........................................         1,698           671           424
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                Total expenses .......................................        44,459        26,495         8,954
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Income before income taxes and equity in undistributed
        earnings of subsidiaries .....................................        47,418        81,607        36,598
Income taxes .........................................................         1,109         6,787         3,484
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Income before equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries .......        46,309        74,820        33,114
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries .....................       138,841        71,541        91,635
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                Net income ...........................................      $185,150      $146,361      $124,749
                                                                            ====================================
</TABLE>


F-68
<PAGE>   87

                            STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                   Year ended December 31,
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                                                                               1996          1995          1994
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                                                                                          (In thousands)
<S>                                                                         <C>           <C>           <C>    
Cash flows from operating activities:
  Net income .........................................................      $185,150      $146,361      $124,749
                                                                            ------------------------------------
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
    operating activities:
      Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries ...............      (138,841)      (71,541)      (91,635)
      Dividend in kind received from a subsidiary ....................                     (41,600)
      Depreciation of premises and equipment .........................         1,621           829
      Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts on
        investments ..................................................            22            23
      Net increase in other assets ...................................          (914)       (1,163)       (1,087)
      Net decrease in current taxes ..................................        (3,182)
      Net increase in other liabilities ..............................         4,554         5,363           157
                                                                            ------------------------------------
            Total adjustments ........................................      (136,740)     (108,089)      (92,565)
                                                                            ------------------------------------
            Net cash provided by operating activities ................        48,410        38,272        32,184
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
  Net (increase) decrease in money market investments ................       (47,564)          581           426
  Purchases of investment securities held-to-maturity ................                                   (50,106)
  Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale ..............        (1,538)      (14,178)       (2,768)
  Maturities of investment securities available-for-sale .............           883
  Capital contribution to subsidiaries ...............................       (30,000)      (16,130)      (78,314)
  Distribution from subsidiary .......................................           392
  Advances to subsidiaries ...........................................      (100,940)     (374,047)      (26,995)
  Acquisition of premises and equipment ..............................            (3)          (22)
                                                                            ------------------------------------
            Net cash used in investing activities ....................      (178,770)     (403,796)     (157,757)
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
  Net (decrease) increase in securities sold under
    agreements to repurchase .........................................          (191)       42,425         9,850
  Net (decrease) increase in commercial paper ........................       (10,349)       41,934        52,493
  Net increase in other short-term borrowings ........................        30,600        34,400
  Net increase in notes payable ......................................       158,039       162,500
  Cash dividends paid ................................................       (51,896)      (44,521)      (37,016)
  Proceeds from issuance of subordinated notes .......................                     125,000
  Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock ..........................                                    96,690
  Proceeds from issuance of common stock .............................         4,135         3,500         3,196
                                                                            ------------------------------------
             Net cash provided by financing activities ...............       130,338       365,238       125,213
                                                                            ------------------------------------
  Net decrease in cash ...............................................           (22)         (286)         (360)
  Cash at beginning of period ........................................           213           499           859
                                                                            ------------------------------------
  Cash at end of period ..............................................      $    191      $    213      $    499
                                                                            ====================================
</TABLE>

         The principal source of income for the Holding Company consists of
dividends from Banco Popular. As a member subject to the regulations of the
Federal Reserve Board, Banco Popular must obtain the approval of the Federal
Reserve Board for any dividend if the total of all dividends declared by it in
any calendar year would exceed the total of its net profits for that year, as
defined by the Federal Reserve Board, combined with its retained net profits for
the preceding two years. The payment of dividends by Banco Popular may also be
affected by other regulatory requirements and policies, such as the maintenance
of certain minimum capital levels.

NOTE 29 - POPULAR INTERNATIONAL BANK, INC. (A SUBSIDIARY OF BANPONCE
CORPORATION) FINANCIAL INFORMATION:

         The following summarized financial information presents the
consolidated financial position of Popular International Bank, Inc. and its
subsidiaries as of November 30, 1996 and 1995, and the results of their
operations, cash flows and changes in stockholder's equity for each of the three
years in the period ended November 30, 1996. Popular International Bank, Inc. is
the holding company of BanPonce Financial Corp., including Pioneer Bancorp Inc.,
CombanCorp and Banco Popular, FSB (second-tier subsidiaries) and its
wholly-owned subsidiary Equity One, Inc.

                                                                            F-69
<PAGE>   88


                            STATEMENTS OF CONDITION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                   November 30,
                                                                            ---------------------------
                                                                               1996          1995               
                                                                            ---------------------------
                                                                                   (In thousands)
<S>                                                                         <C>             <C>       
ASSETS
        Cash .........................................................      $   31,171      $   25,052
                                                                            --------------------------
        Money market investments .....................................          49,184          20,840
                                                                            --------------------------
        Investment securities available-for-sale, at market value ....         205,249         270,262
                                                                            --------------------------
        Investment securities held-to-maturity .......................          12,232
                                                                            --------------------------
        Loans held-for-sale ..........................................          48,068          23,555
                                                                            --------------------------
        Loans ........................................................       1,545,262       1,158,513
                Less: Unearned income ................................          47,420          43,375
                Allowance for loan losses ............................          22,920          16,242
                                                                            --------------------------
                                                                             1,474,922       1,098,896
                                                                            --------------------------
        Other assets .................................................          50,672          35,488
        Intangible assets ............................................          31,232          30,340
                Total assets .........................................      $1,902,730      $1,504,433
                                                                            ==========================
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
        Deposits:
           Non-interest bearing ......................................      $   94,297      $   55,730
           Interest bearing ..........................................         593,195         494,096
                                                                            --------------------------
                                                                               687,492         549,826
                                                                            --------------------------
        Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements
                to repurchase ........................................           5,075           4,035
        Other short-term borrowings, consisting of $375,625 in term
                notes (1995 - $99,930), and a revolving credit 
                facility with an affiliate of $35,000 
                (1995 - $40,000) .....................................         410,625         139,930
        Notes payable (Note 12) ......................................         579,277         634,139
        Other liabilities ............................................          38,722          37,368
        Stockholder's equity .........................................         181,539         139,135
                                                                            --------------------------
                Total liabilities and  stockholder's equity ..........      $1,902,730      $1,504,433
                                                                            ==========================
</TABLE>



                              STATEMENTS OF INCOME
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                   Year ended November 30,
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                                                                               1996          1995          1994
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                                                                                          (In thousands)

<S>                                                                         <C>           <C>           <C>     
Interest and fees:
        Loans ........................................................      $136,824      $101,442      $ 66,487
        Money market and investment securities .......................        16,188        18,948         5,721
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                                                                             153,012       120,390        72,208
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Interest expense:
        Deposits .....................................................        24,000        21,225         8,091
        Short-term borrowings ........................................        22,572         6,595         9,707
        Long-term borrowings .........................................        35,265        39,847        18,060
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                                                                              81,837        67,667        35,858
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Net interest income ..................................................        71,175        52,723        36,350
Provision for loan losses ............................................        14,299         8,651         6,973
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Net interest income after provision for loan losses ..................        56,876        44,072        29,377

Service charges on deposit accounts ..................................         2,735         1,844           768
Other service fees ...................................................         4,663         3,813         2,834
Gain on sale of securities ...........................................         7,026         6,239
Other operating income ...............................................         5,342         6,738         3,614
                                                                            ------------------------------------
                                                                              76,642        62,706        36,593
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Operating expenses ...................................................        46,509        35,782        23,149
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Income before income tax .............................................        30,133        26,924        13,444
Income tax ...........................................................        12,978        10,629         5,477
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Net income ...........................................................      $ 17,155      $ 16,295      $  7,967
                                                                            ====================================
</TABLE>
 
F-70
<PAGE>   89
                            STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                             Year ended November 30,
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
                                                                                        1996          1995          1994
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
                                                                                                  (In thousands)
<S>                                                                                   <C>            <C>            <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
        Net income .............................................................      $ 17,155       $ 16,295       $  7,967
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
        Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by
        operating activities:                                               
        Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment ................         1,833          1,136            719
        Provision for loan losses ..............................................        14,299          8,651          6,973
        Amortization of intangibles ............................................         3,460          3,321          1,524
        Amortization of deferred loan fees and costs ...........................        (1,922)         6,467          4,701
        Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts on             
          investments ..........................................................           267            446
        Loans held-for-sale ....................................................       (24,513)
        Gain on sale of investment securities available-for-sale ...............        (7,026)        (6,239)
        Gain on sale of loans ..................................................        (8,049)        (6,676)        (3,574)
        Net increase in interest receivable ....................................        (1,286)        (5,375)        (1,954)
        Net increase in other assets ...........................................        (1,915)        (5,046)          (319)
        Net decrease in current and deferred taxes .............................        (1,942)
        Net increase in other liabilities ......................................         5,392          7,509          8,111
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
                        Total adjustments ......................................       (21,402)         4,194         16,181
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
                        Net cash provided by operating activities ..............        (4,247)        20,489         24,148
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
        Net (increase) decrease in money market investments ....................       (15,676)         3,489        (14,980)
        Purchases of investment securities held-to-maturity ....................        (6,214)
        Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale ..................       (71,955)      (358,811)       (52,324)
        Sale of investment securities available-for-sale .......................        61,205        183,091         36,833
        Maturities of investment securities available-for-sale .................        98,011         50,000
        Net disbursements on loans .............................................      (574,754)      (357,540)      (392,454)
        Proceeds from sale of loans ............................................       285,771         70,155        107,941
        Acquisition of loan portfolios .........................................                      (18,059)
        Assets acquired, net of cash ...........................................        (2,656)                      (17,557)
        Acquisition of premises and equipment ..................................        (4,794)        (4,941)        (1,964)
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
                        Net cash used in investing activities ..................      (231,062)      (432,616)      (334,505)
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
        Net increase in deposits ...............................................        42,735         43,211         33,097
        Net deposits acquired ..................................................                      163,504
        Net increase (decrease) in federal funds purchased and securities
          sold under agreements to repurchase ..................................         1,040         (8,965)         8,000
        Net increase (decrease) in other short-term borrowings .................       222,514        (24,870)        38,523
        Proceeds from issuance of notes payable ................................        30,024        234,215        175,762
        Payments of notes payable ..............................................       (84,885)
        Proceeds from issuance of common stock .................................           150
        Capital contribution from Parent company ...............................        29,850                        78,164
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
                        Net cash provided by financing activities ..............       241,428        407,095        333,546
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and due from banks .............................         6,119         (5,032)        23,189
Cash and due from banks at beginning of year ...................................        25,052         30,084          6,895
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
Cash and due from banks at end of year .........................................      $ 31,171       $ 25,052       $ 30,084
                                                                                      ======================================
</TABLE>

                                                                            F-71
<PAGE>   90



                            STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN
                              STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                                             Year ended November 30,
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
                                                                                        1996          1995          1994
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
                                                                                                   (In thousands)
<S>                                                                                   <C>            <C>            <C>     
Preferred Stock:
        Par value $25; authorized 25,000,000 shares, none issued

Common Stock:
        Par value $5; authorized 1,000,000 shares, 700,000 shares
                issued and outstanding (1995 - 670,000; 1994 - 670,000)
        Balance at beginning of the period .....................................      $  3,350       $  3,350       $  3,100
        Issuance of common stock ...............................................           150                           250
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
        Balance at end of the period ...........................................         3,500          3,350          3,350
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
Additional paid-in capital:
        Balance at beginning of the period .....................................       103,114        103,114         25,200
        Issuance of common stock ...............................................                                      49,750
        Capital contribution from Parent company ...............................        29,850                        28,164
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
        Balance at end of the period ...........................................       132,964        103,114        103,114
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
Retained earnings:
        Balance at beginning of the period .....................................        27,234         10,939          2,972
        Net income .............................................................        17,155         16,295          7,967
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
        Balance at end of the period ...........................................        44,389         27,234         10,939
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on investment securities
                available-for-sale, net of deferred taxes:
        Balance at beginning of the period .....................................         5,437         (2,473)
        Unrealized holding losses on adoption of change in
                accounting for investment securities, net of deferred taxes ....                                        (736)
        Net change in the fair value of investment securities
                available-for-sale, net of deferred taxes ......................        (4,751)         7,910         (1,737)
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
        Balance at end of period ...............................................           686          5,437         (2,473)
                                                                                      --------------------------------------
                Total stockholder's equity .....................................      $181,539       $139,135       $114,930
                                                                                      ======================================
</TABLE>

NOTE 30 - BANPONCE FINANCIAL CORP. (A SECOND-TIER SUBSIDIARY OF BANPONCE
CORPORATION) FINANCIAL INFORMATION:

         The following summarized financial information presents the
consolidated financial position of BanPonce Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries
CombanCorp, Banco Popular, FSB, including its wholly-owned subsidiary Equity
One, Inc., and Pioneer Bancorp, Inc. (second tier subsidiaries) as of November
30, 1996 and 1995, and the results of their operations, cash flows and changes
in stockholder's equity for each of the three years in the period ended November
30, 1996 (the financial information of Banco Popular, FSB is only included since
its inception on January 23, 1995 and CombanCorp since its acquisition on
September 30, 1996).


F-72
<PAGE>   91

                            STATEMENTS OF CONDITION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                        November 30,
                                                                                 ---------------------------
                                                                                    1996          1995               
                                                                                 ---------------------------
                                                                                        (In thousands)
<S>                                                                              <C>             <C>       
ASSETS
        Cash and due from banks ...........................................      $   29,936      $   25,012
                                                                                 ---------------------------
        Money market investments ..........................................          46,399          19,819
                                                                                 ---------------------------
        Investment securities available-for-sale, at market value .........         205,181         267,026
                                                                                 ---------------------------
        Investment securities held-to-maturity ............................          12,232           3,236
                                                                                 ---------------------------
        Loans held-for-sale ...............................................          48,068          23,555
                                                                                 ---------------------------
        Loans .............................................................       1,545,262       1,158,513
                Less: Unearned income .....................................          47,420          43,375
                 Allowance for loan losses ................................          22,920          16,242
                                                                                 ---------------------------
                                                                                  1,474,922       1,098,896
                                                                                 ---------------------------
        Other assets ......................................................          50,525          35,370
        Intangible assets .................................................          31,232          30,340
                                                                                 ---------------------------
                        Total assets ......................................      $1,898,495      $1,503,254
                                                                                 ===========================

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
        Deposits:
                Non-interest bearing ......................................      $   94,297      $   55,730
                Interest bearing ..........................................         593,195         494,096
                                                                                 ---------------------------
                                                                                    687,492         549,826
                                                                                 ---------------------------
        Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements
                to repurchase .............................................           5,075           4,035
        Other short-term borrowings, consisting of $375,625 term notes
                (1995 - $99,930) and a revolving credit facility with an
                affiliate of $35,000  (1995 - $40,000) ....................         410,625         139,930
        Notes payable (Note 12) ...........................................         579,277         634,139
        Other liabilities .................................................          38,699          37,343
        Stockholder's equity ..............................................         177,327         137,981
                                                                                 ---------------------------
                Total liabilities and stockholder's equity ................      $1,898,495      $1,503,254
                                                                                 ===========================
</TABLE>



                              STATEMENTS OF INCOME
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   Year ended November 30,
                                                                            --------------------------------------
                                                                              1996          1995          1994
                                                                            --------------------------------------
                                                                                         (In thousands)

<S>                                                                         <C>           <C>           <C>     
Interest and fees:
        Loans ........................................................      $136,824      $101,442      $ 66,486
        Money market and investment securities .......................        16,107        18,888         5,683
                                                                            --------------------------------------
                                                                             152,931       120,330        72,169
                                                                            --------------------------------------
Interest expense:
        Deposits .....................................................        24,000        21,225         8,091
        Short-term borrowings ........................................        22,572         6,595         9,707
        Long-term borrowings .........................................        35,265        39,847        18,060
                                                                            --------------------------------------
                                                                              81,837        67,667        35,858
                                                                            --------------------------------------
Net interest income ..................................................        71,094        52,663        36,311
Provision for loan losses ............................................        14,299         8,651         6,973
                                                                            --------------------------------------
Net interest income after provision for loan losses ..................        56,795        44,012        29,338
Service charges on deposit accounts ..................................         2,735         1,844           768
Other service fees ...................................................         4,663         3,813         2,834
Gain on sale of securities ...........................................         7,026         6,239
Other operating income ...............................................         5,457         6,738         3,614
                                                                            --------------------------------------
                                                                              76,676        62,646        36,554
                                                                            --------------------------------------
Operating expenses ...................................................        46,600        35,778        23,144
                                                                            ------------------------------------
Income before tax ....................................................        30,076        26,868        13,410
Income tax ...........................................................        12,978        10,629         5,477
                                                                            --------------------------------------
Net income ...........................................................      $ 17,098      $ 16,239      $  7,933
                                                                            ======================================
</TABLE>


                                                                            F-73
<PAGE>   92

                            STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                                   Year ended November 30,
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
                                                                                              1996          1995          1994
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
                                                                                                       (In thousands)
<S>                                                                                        <C>            <C>            <C>     
Cash flows from operating activities:
        Net income ..................................................................      $ 17,098       $ 16,239       $  7,933
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
        Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by
                operating activities:
                Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment .............         1,833          1,136            719
                Provision for loan losses ...........................................        14,299          8,651          6,973
                Amortization of intangibles .........................................         3,460          3,321          1,524
                Amortization of deferred loan fees and costs ........................        (1,922)         6,467          4,701
                Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts on
                   investments ......................................................           267            446
                Loan held-for-sale ..................................................       (24,513)
                Gain on sale of investment securities available-for-sale ............        (7,026)        (6,239)
                Gain on sale of loans ...............................................        (8,049)        (6,676)        (3,574)
                Net increase in interest receivable .................................        (1,286)        (5,368)        (1,954)
                Net increase in other assets ........................................        (1,884)        (4,940)          (350)
                Net increase in current and deferred taxes ..........................        (1,942)
                Net increase in other liabilities ...................................         5,392          7,483          8,111
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
                        Total adjustments ...........................................       (21,371)         4,281         16,150
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
                        Net cash provided by operating activities ...................        (4,273)        20,520         24,083
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
        Net (increase) decrease in money market investments .........................       (13,912)         3,476        (14,968)
        Purchases of investment securities held-to-maturity .........................        (6,214)
        Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale .......................       (71,888)      (358,811)       (52,324)
        Sale of investment securities available-for-sale ............................        61,205        183,091         36,833
        Maturities of investment securities available-for-sale ......................        98,011         50,000
        Net disbursements on loans ..................................................      (574,754)      (357,540)      (392,454)
        Proceeds from sale of loans .................................................       285,771         70,155        107,941
        Acquisition of loan portfolios ..............................................                      (18,059)
        Assets acquired, net of cash ................................................        (2,656)                      (17,557)
        Acquisition of premises and equipment .......................................        (4,794)        (4,941)        (1,964)
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
                        Net cash used in investing activities .......................      (229,231)      (432,629)      (334,493)
                                                                                           --------------------------------------

Cash flows from financing activities:
        Net increase in deposits ....................................................        42,735         43,211         33,097
        Net deposits acquired .......................................................                      163,504
        Net increase (decrease) in federal funds purchased and securities
                sold under agreements to repurchase .................................         1,040         (8,965)         8,000
        Net increase (decrease) in other short-term borrowings ......................       222,514        (24,870)        38,523
        Proceeds from issuance of notes payable .....................................        30,024        234,215        175,762
        Payments of note payable ....................................................       (84,885)
        Capital contribution from Parent company ....................................        27,000                        78,164
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
                        Net cash provided by financing activities ...................       238,428        407,095        333,546
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and due from banks ..................................         4,924         (5,014)        23,136
Cash and due from banks at beginning of period ......................................        25,012         30,026          6,890
                                                                                           --------------------------------------
Cash and due from banks at end of period ............................................      $ 29,936       $ 25,012       $ 30,026
                                                                                           ======================================
</TABLE>

F-74
<PAGE>   93


                            STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN
                              STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                                              Year ended November 30,
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
                                                                                         1996           1995          1994
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
                                                                                                  (In thousands)
<S>                                                                                    <C>            <C>            <C>
Preferred Stock:
        Par value $0.10; authorized 10,000,000 shares, none issued

Common Stock:
        Par value $1; authorized 10,000 shares, 2,000 shares issued
                and outstanding
        Balance at beginning of the period ......................................      $      2       $      2
        Issuance of common stock ................................................                                    $      2
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
        Balance at end of the period ............................................             2              2              2
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
Additional paid-in capital:
        Balance at beginning of the period ......................................       105,163        105,163         27,000
        Issuance of common stock ................................................                                      49,999
                Capital contribution from parent company ........................        27,000                        28,164
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
        Balance at end of the period ............................................       132,163        105,163        105,163
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
Retained earnings:
        Balance at beginning of the period ......................................        27,379         11,140          3,207
        Net income ..............................................................        17,098         16,239          7,933
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
        Balance at end of the period ............................................        44,477         27,379         11,140
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on investment securities
                available-for-sale, net of deferred taxes:
        Balance at beginning of the period ......................................         5,437         (2,473)
        Unrealized holding losses on adoption of change in
                accounting for investment securities, net of deferred taxes .....                                        (736)
        Net change in the fair value of investment securities
                available-for-sale, net of deferred taxes .......................        (4,752)         7,910         (1,737)
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
        Balance at end of period ................................................           685          5,437         (2,473)
                                                                                      ---------------------------------------
                        Total stockholder's equity ..............................      $177,327       $137,981       $113,832
                                                                                      =======================================
</TABLE>

                                                                            F-75
<PAGE>   94

                         [BANPONCE CORPORATION LOGO]
<PAGE>   95
                                                                    EXHIBIT 13.1


                    BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report



                       COMPUTERIZED ARTS GRAPHIC DESIGN:








                          [BANPONCE CORPORATION LOGO]


                        Extending a Tradition of Service
                                Into the Future

<PAGE>   96


CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<S>                                     <C>
Profile                                  1

Letter to Shareholders                   5

Strengthening Our Main Market           10

Expanding Our Business Franchise        14

Diversifying Our Financial Services     18

Enhancing Our Commitment
to a Quality Organization               22

Community Involvement                   26

Line of Business                        30

Board of Directors                      31

Management                              32

10-K Financial Summary                  33
</TABLE>



<PAGE>   97


Profile

     BanPonce Corporation is a regional diversified, publicly owned bank holding
company with $16.8 billion in assets. Its headquarters are located in San Juan,
Puerto Rico. The Corporation has three subsidiaries: Banco Popular de Puerto
Rico, Popular International Bank, Inc., and BP Capital Markets, Inc.

     Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, BanPonce's principal subsidiary, is a
full-service commercial bank with $13.3 billion in assets. Through its own
subsidiaries -- Popular Consumer Services, Inc., Popular Leasing and Rental,
Inc., and Popular Mortgage, Inc. -- it offers small personal loans, vehicle and
equipment leasing, and mortgage loans.

     Popular International Bank, Inc., is an entity incorporated under the
Puerto Rico International Banking Center Act, which authorizes the establishment
of banks in Puerto Rico to do business exclusively offshore. BanPonce Financial
Corp., incorporated in Delaware, is Popular International's sole subsidiary. The
subsidiaries of BanPonce Financial are BancoPopular, FSB, operating in New
Jersey; Pioneer Bancorp, Inc., and its own subsidiary Banco Popular (Illinois);
and CombanCorp, and its subsidiary Banco Popular N.A. (California). Equity One,
Inc., a diversified consumer financial company, is, in turn, an operating
subsidiary of Banco Popular, FSB.

     BP Capital Markets, Inc. a direct subsidiary of BanPonce is a securities
broker-dealer in Puerto Rico, engaged in institutional brokerage, financial
advisory, and investment and security brokerage operations.

     For more details about the subsidiaries, please refer to page 30.

     BanPonce is subject to the supervision and regulation of the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System. Banco Popular de Puerto Rico is a
member of the Federal Reserve System and is also subject to the supervision of
the Office of the Commissioner of Financial Institutions of the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico and the Superintendent of Banks of the State of New York. Banco
Popular (Illinois) is subject to the supervision of the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation and the Illinois Commissioner of Banks and Trust
Companies. Banco Popular, N.A. (California) is subject to the supervision of the
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Banco Popular, FSB, and Equity One,
Inc., are subject to the supervision of the Office of Thrift Supervision. BP
Capital Markets is subject to the supervision of the National Association of
Securities Dealers.

<PAGE>   98
                    BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report

10-Year Summary

     BanPonce is an organization unique in the international financial services
marketplace. BanPonce is best known for its banking subsidiary Banco Popular,
which is built on a tradition of strong leadership and is Puerto Rico's premier
banking institution. The Corporation possesses an unwavering commitment to the
communities it serves, a dedication to Total Quality and a passion for making
banking more convenient and accessible for all customers.

     BanPonce is also a diverse, multifaceted organization encompassing a broad 
range of financial services--including mortgage banking, leasing, consumer
finance, investment banking and processing services. Through careful management
and a vision for the future, BanPonce continues to be a respected and solid 
financial performer in the industry.

     While strengthening its competitive position at home, BanPonce is 
expanding its franchise into the United States and Caribbean region, with the
strategic objective of becoming the dominant Hispanic financial services
provider in every market in which it operates.

     BanPonce is bringing a tradition of service into the future of financial
services.

[GRAPH]  Assets by Geographical Area  (percentage)

[GRAPH]  Earnings Per Share 

[GRAPH]  Banking Offices

[GRAPH]  ATMs Owned and Driven


<PAGE>   99
                           10-Year Summary (1987~1996)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   1987      1988      1989      1990       1991      1992      1993      1994      1995       1996
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     (Dollars in millions, except per common share data)
<S>                            <C>        <C>       <C>       <C>        <C>      <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>        <C>     
 Selected Financial Information
   Net Interest Income         $  203.8     226.9     255.5     284.2      407.8     440.2     492.1     535.5     584.2     681.3
   Non-Interest Income             40.3      53.7      62.1      71.0      131.8     124.5     125.2     141.3     173.3     205.5
   Operating Expenses             182.6     190.9     207.4     229.6      345.7     366.9     412.3     447.8     486.8     541.9
   Net Income                      37.5      47.1      56.2      63.4       64.6      85.1     109.4     124.7     146.4     185.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total Assets                $5,352.7   5,661.4   5,923.3   8,983.6    8,780.3  10,002.3  11,513.4  12,778.4  15,675.5  16,764.1
   Net Loans                    2,737.2   3,056.8   3,276.4   5,365.9    5,195.6   5,252.1   6,346.9   7,781.3   8,677.5   9,779.0
   Deposits                     4,491.6   4,715.8   4,926.3   7,422.7    7,207.1   8,038.7   8,522.7   9,012.4   9,876.7  10,763.3
   Total Stockholders' Equity     301.4     334.9     375.8     588.9      631.8     752.1     834.2   1,002.4   1,141.7   1,262.5
   ROA                             0.76%     0.85%     0.99%     1.09%      0.72%     0.89%     1.02%     1.02%     1.04%     1.14%
   ROE                            13.09%    14.87%    15.87%    15.55%     10.57%    12.72%    13.80%    13.80%    14.22%    16.15%
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Per CommonShare
   Earnings                   $    0.94      1.18      1.40      1.57       1.07      1.40      1.67      1.84      2.10      2.68
   Dividends (Declared)            0.33      0.34      0.40      0.40       0.40      0.40      0.45      0.50      0.58      0.69
   Book Value                      7.54      8.38      9.38      9.83      10.50     11.52     12.75     13.74     15.81     17.59
   Market Price                    6.69      8.88     10.75      8.00       9.63     15.13     15.50     14.07     19.38     33.75
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Assets by Geographical Area
   P.R.                           94.22%    93.45%    92.18%    88.59%     86.67%    87.33%    79.42%    75.86%    75.49%    73.88%
   U.S.                            5.01%     5.50%     6.28%     9.28%     10.92%    10.27%    16.03%    19.65%    20.76%    22.41%
   Caribbean                       0.77%     1.05%     1.54%     2.13%      2.41%     2.40%     4.55%     4.49%     3.75%     3.71%
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total                      100.00%   100.00%   100.00%   100.00%    100.00%   100.00%   100.00%   100.00%   100.00%   100.00%
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Delivery System
   Banking Branches
     P.R.                           126       126       128       173        161       162       165       166       166       178
     Caribbean                        3         3         3         3          3         3         8         8         8         8
     U.S.                             9        10        10        24         24        30        32        34        40        44
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Sub-total                     138       139       141       200        188       195       205       208       214       230
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Popular Consumer Services          14        17        17        26         26        26        26        27        30        35
  Popular Leasing                                         4         9          9         9         8        10         9         8
  Equity One                                                                  27        41        58        73        91       102
  Popular Mortgage                                                                                                     3         4
  BP Capital                                                                                                                     1
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Sub-total                      14        17        21        35         62        76        92       110       133       150
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total                         152       156       162       235        250       271       297       318       347       380
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 ATMs
   Owned
     P.R.                           136       153       151       211        206       211       234       262       281       327
     V.I.                             3         3         3         3          3         3         8         8         8         9
     U.S.                                                                                6        11        26        38        53
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Sub-total                     139       156       154       214        209       220       253       296       327       389
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Driven
     P.R.                            63        68        65        54         73        81        86        88       120       162
     Caribbean                                                                                                                 102
      Sub-total                      63        68        65        54         73        81        86        88       120       264
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total                         202       224       219       268        282       301       339       384       447       653
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Transactions (in millions)
   Electronic Transactions         12.4      14.9      16.1      18.0       23.9      28.6      33.2      43.0      56.6      78.0
   Items Processed                137.7     139.3     137.9     137.0      166.1     170.4     171.8     174.5     175.0     173.7
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Employees (FTEs)*                4,699     5,131     5,213     7,023      7,006     7,024     7,533     7,606     7,815     7,996
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 * For the years 1990-1996 seasonals are included converted FTEs.

</TABLE>
<PAGE>   100

                    BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report

                                    OUR CREED

Banco Popular is a local institution dedicating its efforts exclusively to the
enhancement of the social and economic conditions in Puerto Rico and inspired by
the most sound principles and fundamental practices of good banking. Banco
Popular pledges its efforts and resources to the development of a banking
service for Puerto Rico within strict commercial practices and so efficient that
it could meet the requirements of the most progressive community in the world.

These words, written by don Rafael Carrion Pacheco, Executive Vice President and
         President (1927-1956), embody the philosophy of Banco Popular.

                                   OUR PEOPLE

The men and women who work for our institution, from the highest executive to
the employees who handle the most routine tasks, feel a special pride in serving
our customers with care and dedication. All of them feel the personal
satisfaction of belonging to the "Banco Popular Family," which fosters affection
and understanding among its members, and which at the same time firmly complies
with the highest moral and ethical standards of behavior.


These words by don Rafael Carrion Jr., President and Chairman of the Board
(1956-1991) evidencing our commitment to human resources, were written to
commemorate Banco Popular's 95th anniversary.

<PAGE>   101
                            Letter to Shareholders

                            Mr. Richard L. Carrion
                       (PHOTO) Chairman, President and
                           Chief Executive Officer
                                      
                             TO OUR SHAREHOLDERS

The year 1996 was, in general, a great year for the banking industry; we were no
exception. Steady economic growth, low inflation and relatively low interest
rates allowed us to increase our earnings by 27%.

BanPonce Corporation reported net income of $185.2 million for the year, an
increase of $38.8 million from the results obtained in 1995. This represents a
return on assets of 1.14% and a return on common equity of 16.15%, an
improvement from the previous year's 1.04% and 14.22% respectively. Earnings per
common share were $2.68 compared with $2.10 for 1995 after adjusting for the
stock split effected on July 1, 1996.

     We took advantage of this favorable environment and of our financial
performance to advance our strategic objectives. Over the past decade our
fundamental strategy has gradually evolved. The main principles of this strategy
are:

- -       Strengthening our competitive position in Puerto Rico, our main market.

- -       Expanding our business franchise in the Caribbean and the United States,
particularly in areas with large Hispanic population.

- -       Continue diversifying our financial services in order to offer more
alternatives to our customers.

- -       Enhancing our commitment to the quality of our organization and the
services we provide our customers.

     In spite of our growing presence in the United States and the Caribbean,
our core business continues to be in Puerto Rico. In order to enhance our
already strong market position, it is necessary to align our distribution system
with the different market segments we aspire to serve. To accomplish this, we
will rely increasingly on technology to allow us to offer more services to more
customers in more places. Increased convenience for our customers and ultimately
lowering operating costs have been our two guiding forces. We continue to invest
in electronic banking initiatives that will allow us to grow for many more
years. The following are some of the advances we made during the year in this
area:

- -       Late in the year, we offered teen-agers in Puerto Rico ATH POP, the
first completely electronic savings account that also has access to the Bank's
ATH network, (ATH is the Spanish acronym for at all hours, the name Banco
Popular has given to its ATM network) and to more than 11,000 point-of-sale
terminals throughout the island. In its first month, we opened more than 10,000
new accounts. ATH POP complements our Populoso account, a savings account
designed for children.

- -       We reached an agreement with Cruz Azul, one of the largest medical
insurance providers on the island, to electronically process payments to medical
service providers. Nearly 3,000 terminals were installed of approximately 7,000
to be installed upon completion of the project. This system has considerably cut
down on costs and has spawned substantial efficiencies for both service
providers and Cruz Azul.

                                       5
<PAGE>   102
                   BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report


- -       We introduced our customers to automatic lending machines, known as
Rapi-Prestamo. In doing so, we became one of the first banks in the hemisphere
to provide its customers with automatic lending machines.

- -       We established an Internet Web site, http://www.banco popular.com, where
customers and potential customers can obtain more information about our many
products and services and the Corporation in general.

- -       We established a pilot program among our employees to do their banking
through their personal computers. PC Banking will be offered to all our
customers during 1997.

- -       We launched another telephone service called TelePrestamo, by which
customers can apply for personal loans, credit cards and reserve credit lines
and receive final approval on the first call.

     Our point-of-sale debit and credit card transactions and TelePago, our
Pay-by-Phone service, all reflected healthy growth. In just six years, from 1990
to 1996, our electronic transactions in Puerto Rico have grown from 27% to 66%
of all transactions.

     Enthused by this performance we continued to explore new ways of reaching
our customers. After introducing financial services into retail stores in Puerto
Rico during the 1980s with the establishment of "Expreso Popular" facilities, we
took this concept a step further and opened nine in-store branches on the
island's three main supermarket chains. These in-store branches provide
customers the ability to perform transactions electronically and information on
products and services. We increased our service hours in all branches. Moreover,
in the case of our in-store and shopping center branches, we aligned our service
hours with the store or shopping center so that our customers can have the
convenience of doing their banking while they shop. We also opened six new
modern branches and remodeled nine more.

     To provide complete financial services to high net worth customers, Private
Financial Group, a division of Banco Popular specialized in serving this segment
of the market, considerably expanded its services and reach by launching its
Private Management Account. This product conveniently combines a tiered
interest-bearing account with a preferred rate line of credit in a statement
that consolidates all financial relation-ships. Our commercial customers also
benefited from the relaunching of FlexiCuenta, our unique commercial account
that provides customers with checking, line of credit, investment services and
can be tailored to each business' specific needs.

     In our most significant expansion, as the year closed, we reached an
agreement to purchase Roig Commercial Bank, established in 1922. The Roig bank
has a significant banking franchise focused on the eastern part of Puerto Rico
and approximately $900 million in assets. This acquisition will enhance the
service provided to customers in this area of the island, where we expect
continued economic growth, and further buttresses our competitive position in
Puerto Rico. 

     The solid financial climate of the past few years has given us the 
opportunity to pursue our geographical expansion. By year end, through
acquisitions or letters of intent as well as the expansion of current
businesses, our presence in the continental United States had grown to the
following:

- -       29 branches of Banco Popular de Puerto Rico in New York.

- -       Six branches of Banco Popular, FSB in New Jersey.

- -       Five branches of Banco Popular, Illinois (formerly Pioneer Bank) in
Chicago. We have an agreement to purchase two bank holding companies awaiting
regulatory approval, National Bancorp, Inc. with two branches and CBC Bancorp
with three branches.

- -       Four in Los Angeles, now all under the name of Banco Popular, N.A.
(California) after the acquisition of CombanCorp, which had three branches, and
the addition of our existing Banco Popular branch in Los Angeles.

                 [GRAPH Electronic Transactions  (percentage)]


                                       6
<PAGE>   103

                             Letter to Shareholders

         "Our superior electronic banking capabilities and the quality
        of our infrastructure in Puerto Rico have allowed us to explore
                   a promising new income-generating area..."

- -       During 1996 we reached an agreement to purchase  Seminole National Bank
in Florida, with three branches. This will mark our entry into this attractive
market.

- -       Equity One, our U.S. mortgage and consumer finance subsidiary, expanded
its operation to 102 offices in 28 states. Most of our business in the United
States consists of recent acquisitions. Our objective is to create a wide base
in markets with a sizable Hispanic population. We are building a nationwide
network and brand that will offer us opportunities for growth for many years to
come. In the Caribbean region, we also made headway during the year. By March
we had completed the acquisition of 20% of Citizens Bank in Jamaica, the third
largest banking institution in that country with 14 branches and $350 million
in assets.

     In April, we inaugurated ATH Dominicana, an automatic teller machine
network, in the Dominican Republic. By year end, we had connected 102 ATM
machines to our ATH network consisting of seven participating banks at the
moment. Electronic transactions in the Dominican Republic surged, reaching
approximately 600,000 monthly transactions. During  the year we also added POS
capabilities. On the heels of this deal, we reached a similar agreement in Costa
Rica. The ATH network in this country will be operational early 1997 and will
connect 16 banks. Both networks will be operated from our facilities in Puerto
Rico. Our superior electronic banking capabilities and the quality of our
infrastructure in Puerto Rico have allowed us to explore a promising new
income-generating area: banking services to other banking institutions in the
region. We are actively pursuing opportunities for growth in this region.

     Our efforts to continue diversifying our service offerings continued. In
conjunction with PaineWebber, we issued Puerto Rico Investors Tax-Free Fund IV
and Puerto Rico Tax-Free Target Maturity Fund. At year end these funds had
approximately $816 million in assets, which generated $2.4 million in management
and administration fees. We also continued to expand our retail distribution
network for investment products through the offices of Marketing One in selected
branches. We are in the process of bringing these investment professionals
in-house through our Popular Securities subsidiary. We remain alert to
regulatory changes that may allow us to distribute insurance services to our
customer base.

     Continuing with our commitment to quality in all aspects of our
organization, last year we aggressively pursued several initiatives in this
area. We invested a considerable amount in our personnel, offering them numerous
seminars and workshops to provide them the tools to improve service to our
customers. At the retail level we adopted a new corporate image program that
included uniforms for our branch staff. More importantly, Total Quality measures
produced savings in specific processes and areas.

     In January of 1996, we announced a significant management change designed
to improve the capabilities of our two most senior officers as well as to send a
message to the rest of the organization of the commitment and flexibility that
will be increasingly required to succeed in the future. Jorge A. Junquera and
David H. Chafey Jr., both Senior Executive Vice Presidents of BanPonce
Corporation, exchanged their areas of responsibility. David now oversees our
retail banking operation, alternative delivery systems and our private banking
group while Jorge is now our Chief Financial Officer and is also responsible for
our trust business, U.S. operations and Caribbean expansion. The results have
been excellent. Both have augmented their managerial capacity with the change
and each benefited the

                                       7
<PAGE>   104
                  BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report

       We will continue to adhere to Jacob Safra's dictum: "If you choose
         to sail upon the seas of banking, build your bank as you would
        your boat, with the strength to sail safely through any storm."


Bank by bringing new outlooks to their new areas of responsibility. We feel
strongly that our managerial structure must mirror our strategic objectives. At
the end of the year, we promoted Carlos Rom and Roberto R. Herencia to our
Senior Management Council. Carlos and Roberto were directly responsible for our
Caribbean and U.S. geographical expansions, respectively. We feel they will
further reinforce our senior management to effectively oversee our growing
geographical diversity.

                                   [GRAPH]

     Our accomplishments have always been a reflection of the quality of our
Board of Directors. It was with great sorrow that we lost one of BanPonce's
board members, Waldemar del Valle. Mr. Del Valle passed away during the year,
after having served on the board for 21 years. Roberto Esteves, a member of
Banco Popular's board, retired after serving for 6 years on the Banco Popular
board. We are grateful for their many insights and their years of service.

     In 1996, we also faced the repeal of Section 936 of the U.S. Internal
Revenue Code. This section of the U.S. Code allowed U.S. companies operating on
the island to obtain a tax credit against the federal tax liability derived from
business operations and investment income in Puerto Rico. The bill that was
finally approved eliminated the benefits that applied to investment income
immediately and will phase out the operation income and wage credit in 10 years.
The immediate effect of this repeal was a slight rise in the cost of our funds
as we began to replace 936 funds with higher-cost liabilities. We are convinced
that the Puerto Rican economy can adjust successfully to the eradication of
Section 936.

     We will continue to adhere to Jacob Safra's dictum: "If you choose to sail
upon the seas of banking, build your bank as you would your boat, with the
strength to sail safely through any storm." We are on the right course. We
continue to pledge our efforts to provide excellent service to our customers and
superior returns to our shareholders.




/s/ Richard L. Carrion
- ------------------------
Richard L. Carrion
Chairman
President
Chief Executive Officer

                                       8

<PAGE>   105
                            Letter to Shareholders

                        (PHOTO Senior Management Group)

SENIOR MANAGEMENT COUNCIL


Seated in front:

Richard L. Carrion
Chairman
President
Chief Executive Officer


From the left:

Roberto R. Herencia
Executive Vice President

Humberto Martin
Executive Vice President

Emilio E. Pinero Ferrer, Esq.
Executive Vice President

David H. Chafey Jr.
Senior Executive Vice President

Larry B. Kesler
Executive Vice President

Maria Isabel P. de Burckhart
Executive Vice President

Carlos Rom
Executive Vice President

Jorge A. Junquera
Senior Executive Vice President

                                       9
<PAGE>   106

                   BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report

                   (PHOTO) Computerized Arts Graphic Design:


STRENGTHENING OUR MAIN MARKET
by providing more services to more customers in more places

                                       10
<PAGE>   107

                         Strengthening Our Main Market

                    (PHOTO) Computerized Arts Grapic Design:

        Puerto Rico continues to be the Corporation's main market, representing
74% of assets and 82% of net income for 1996. In this market, Banco Popular de
Puerto Rico holds the largest market share in both the commercial and retail
businesses. The Bank also possesses the largest delivery franchise in Puerto
Rico, with 178 points of customer contact and 327 automatic teller machines at
year end. Parallel to the institution's expansion and diversification strategy,
the Corporation has continued to strengthen and maintain its competitive
position in this market by developing and carrying out strategies aimed at
providing more services to more customers in more places.

                                       11

<PAGE>   108

                   BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report

                              (PHOTO)  New Branch

Through the use of technology, Banco Popular has developed a new prototype of
the branch of the future.

     Efforts throughout 1996 focused on aligning the delivery system with the
different market segments to provide additional convenience and service to our
customers. By year end, Banco Popular's traditional delivery system consisted of
eight large financial service centers, 134 full-service branches, 27 Expreso
Popular, and nine in-store branches.

     Banco Popular first introduced financial service facilities in retail
stores with the Expreso Popular concept during the 1980s. The new in-store
branch concept, introduced during 1996, builds on this initiative by providing
customers with access to electronic transactions, account openings and other
deposit and loan products. Conveniently located in Pueblo Xtra, Amigo and Grande
supermarkets, three of the largest supermarket chains in Puerto Rico, these
locations provide expanded hours of service by operating during store hours. In
addition, during the year all full-service branches expanded service hours to 4
p.m. and 66 branches are also open on Saturdays and 11 on Sundays and holidays,
providing customers with additional convenience to conduct their financial
transactions.

     In line with Banco Popular's electronic initiatives, which focus on
transforming paper-based transactions into electronic transactions, a new branch
prototype was developed and constructed in the affluent Montehiedra community.
This new concept emphasizes the changing role of the branch into a sales and
service facility and away from traditional transactions. Seen as a preview of
the branch of the future, the Montehiedra branch was outfitted with automatic
teller machines, telephones and six auto lanes to perform transactions. It also
provides customers with valuable product and service information through an
interactive touch screen catalog that provides basic description and rate
information for all products and services.

     Private Financial Group, a specialized unit to provide com-plete financial
services to high net worth customers, considerably expanded its services and
reach. This unit provides traditional banking products and services as well as
investment products through the personalized service of a private banker. During
1996, Private Financial Group launched its Private Management Account (PMA).
This product combines a scaled, interest-bearing checking account and a
preferred rate line of credit in a statement that consolidates all Banco Popular
relationships. By year end, Private Financial Group had more than doubled its
client base and income by providing this segment with the most convenient
financial services alternative.

     Through the development of alternative delivery systems, like PC Home
Banking, Banco Popular is able to better serve upscale customers. Banking on the
PC provides customers with direct access to their accounts and the ability to
perform transactions. Currently being offered through an employee pilot program,
PC Home Banking will be offered to all customers during the first quarter of
1997. This product complements our already existing 24-hour telephone service
TeleBanco, a telephone information service, and TelePago, a telephone payment
system. During 1996, hours of service for customer representatives for both
TeleBanco and TelePago were expanded to 11 p.m.


                                       12

<PAGE>   109
                         Strengthening Our Main Market

                (PHOTO) Employee Offering Services to a Customer


     In addition, new merchants were added to TelePago and the service was
extended to Banco Popular's customers in the U.S. Virgin Islands. By year end,
TelePago was handling 268,000 monthly transactions and TeleBanco received
approximately 947,000 monthly calls. This amounts to an increase of 66% and
27%, respectively, over 1995 figures. 

     TelePrestamo was another telephone service launched in mid-year. 
Applicants for personal loans, credit cards and reserve credit lines can call,
talk to a credit officer and have final approval on the first call, in less
than 20 minutes. By December, 25% of all loans and credit cards booked were
approved by TelePrestamo.

     To attract customers at an earlier age and be able to develop these
contacts into lifelong relationships, during 1996 Banco Popular introduced ATH
POP, an innovative product for the teen-age segment. This completely electronic
savings account provides teen-agers with access to Banco Popular's ATM network,
A Toda Hora (ATH), and to our more than 11,000 point-of-sale (POS) terminals
throughout Puerto Rico. The Bank's POS network grew significantly during 1996 by
adding 4,163 new terminals and 3,034 new merchants. By year end, approximately 3
million monthly transactions were being handled for a 100% increase compared
with 1995.

     Banco Popular's Internet Web site, launched in July 1996 at
http://www.bancopopular.com, provides information on products and services and
special Bank programs. The site also allows customers to apply for loans, credit
cards and register in TelePago in an electronically safe environment.

     In addition to these electronic alternatives, retail customers have
responded very favorably to our credit product offerings. PREMIA a credit card
product launched in December 1995 that offers cash back and prizes had more than
20,000 customers by year end. Our co-branded card with Pueblo Supermarkets, the
largest food chain in Puerto Rico, increased its client base by 69% and its
portfolio by 79% during 1996.

     Commercial customers in Puerto Rico also benefited from the implementation
of strategies tailored to different market segments. In coordination with The
Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Banco Popular's corporate
customers benefited from seminars on subjects such as hyper competition,
family-owned businesses and succession planning. Banco Popular's small and
middle market benefited from special programs such as "Banca del Ferretero" in
which Banco Popular provides hardware stores specialized financing arrangements
for their customers. Also, FlexiCuenta, our commercial account, was enhanced and
re-launched during 1996. This product provides customers with checking,
investment features and a line of credit, all in the same account and tailored
to the individual needs of the commercial customer. These efforts contributed
significantly to an increase in the commercial loan portfolio and commercial fee
income of 14% and 10%, respectively, when compared to the previous year.

     These strategies and the plans that have been set in motion for the coming
years have focused on developing new and innovative ways to profitably service
all segments of the market. In December, BanPonce signed an agreement to
purchase Roig Commercial Bank, a full-service, commercial bank with
approximately $900 million in assets, $656 million in deposits and 25 branches.
Roig Commercial Bank, established in 1922, has a long history of service and
success in the Puerto Rican financial services market. The completion of this
acquisition will strengthen the Corporation's retail and commercial delivery
franchise throughout Puerto Rico and will help Banco Popular provide better
service to customers in the eastern region where Roig branches are located.

                            (PHOTO In-Store Branch)

ABOVE: THE NEW BRANCHES FOCUS ON THE SALE OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES INSTEAD OF
TRADITIONAL TRANSACTIONS.

Below: In-store branches offer more convenience and extended hours.

Electronic Services
Compounded Annual Growth Rate  (since services establishment)

(services)          (percentage)

ATM                      23

POS                      53

TeleBanco               187

TelePago                451


<PAGE>   110
                  BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report


                   (PHOTO) Computerized Arts Graphic Design



EXPANDING OUR BUSINESS FRANCHISE
in the Caribbean and the United States

                                       14
<PAGE>   111

                        Expanding Our Business Franchise

                   (PHOTO) Computerized Arts Graphic Design

        BanPonce's coordinated expansion strategy in the continental United 
States market and in the Caribbean and Latin America is based on two of the
Corporation's competitive advantages: its familiarity with the U.S. Hispanic
market and BanPonce's expertise in electronic payment systems.

                                       15
<PAGE>   112

                   BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report

The expansion in the United States has been mostly in areas with a high
concentration of Hispanics.

                (PHOTO) Four Persons Poses as Hispanic Family

By renaming banks acquired in the United States as Banco Popular and entering
new markets, such as Florida, as well as Equity One's expansion, the Corporation
is on its way to establish a national brand that will support BanPonce's
expansion efforts in the United States and in the Caribbean and Latin America.

     Through strategic acquisitions in California and Illinois, BanPonce's
deposits and loan portfolios in the United States have grown significantly to
attain the efficiency and economies of scale necessary to enhance the
profitability of these operations. In September, the acquisition of CombanCorp,
a $70-million asset bank holding company in the Los Angeles County, was
finalized. CombanCorp's three branches, formerly operating as Commerce National
Bank, were renamed Banco Popular N.A. (California), increasing the Corporation's
presence in the Los Angeles area to $140 million in assets and a total of four
branches at year end.

     In Illinois, Pioneer Bank, which was acquired in 1994 with approximately
$468 million in assets and five branches was renamed Banco Popular (Illinois).
In addition, in 1996 BanPonce agreed to purchase AmericanMidwest Bank and Trust
(National Bancorp Inc.) and Capitol Bank & Trust and Capitol Bank of Westmont
(CBC Bancorp). These institutions will add five additional branches and $490
million in assets. During 1996, we also entered a new and important market by
signing a definite agreement to acquire Seminole Bank in the city of Sanford,
north of Orlando, Florida. This is a highly attractive market for Banco Popular,
with a high

                                       16
<PAGE>   113

                        Expanding Our Business Franchise

concentration of Hispanic population, much of which are Puerto Ricans who have
moved into the area within the past 10 years. All of these acquisitions are
currently awaiting the necessary regulatory approvals.

     Equity One, the Corporation's consumer finance subsidiary in the United
States, reached $1.1 billion in assets and increased its presence by
establishing 11 new branches, for a total of 102 branches located throughout 28
states. During 1996, Equity One expanded its loan products by offering FHA and
VA mortgage loans.

     By renaming banks acquired in the United States as Banco Popular and
entering new markets, such as Florida, as well as Equity One's expansion, the
Corporation is on its way to establish a national brand that will support
BanPonce's expansion efforts in the United States and in the Caribbean and Latin
America.

     In addition to establishing electronic initiatives in the Dominican
Republic and Costa Rica as part of the Corporation's diversification strategy,
Banco Popular acquired a 20% equity stake of Citizens Bank in Jamaica in March
1996. Located in the city of Kingston, Citizens, with approximately $350 million
in assets, has 14 branches throughout the island and is the third largest bank
in terms of assets. This acquisition strengthens the Corporation's expansion in
the Caribbean.

(GRAPH) [Income from the U.S. and Caribbean Region (percentage of total income]


          Equity One now has 102 branches spread throughout 28 states.

U.S. Expansion

Chicago, IL
New York, NY
Los Angeles, CA

Banking States
- --------------
California                                   4         [PHOTO]
Illinois                                     5
New Jersey                                   6         Chicago City
New York                                    29
Florida*                                     3         New York City
TOTAL OFFICES                               47
                                                       Los Angeles City
Non-Banking States - Equity One, Inc.
- -------------------------------------
Alabama                                      1
Connecticut                                  1
Delaware                                     1
Florida                                      9
Georgia                                      2
Illinois                                     2
Indiana                                      2
Iowa                                         1
Kentucky                                     4
Maine                                        1
Maryland                                     2
Massachusetts                                2
Michigan                                     2
Minnesota                                    1
Missouri                                     1
New Hampshire                                1
New Jersey                                   6
New York                                     1
North Carolina                              17
Ohio                                         1
Pennsylvania                                 5
Rhode Island                                 1
South Carolina                              10
Tennessee                                    3
Utah                                         1
Virginia                                    21
West Virginia                                2
Wisconsin                                    1
TOTAL OFFICES                              102

*Pending completion of acquisition

(GRAPH) U.S. Geographic Presence of BanPonce Corporation Subsidiary

                                       17
<PAGE>   114

BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report


                    (PHOTO) Computerized Arts Graphic Design



DIVERSIFYING OUR FINANCIAL SERVICES
to offer more alternatives to our customers

                                       18
<PAGE>   115

                      Diversifying Our Financial Services

                    (PHOTO) Computerized Arts Graphic Design

     During 1996, BanPonce continued to diversify its sources of income by
providing our customers with more investment products and services, electronic
payment alternatives, and by exporting the Corporation's technological expertise
to the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica. In addition, BP Capital Markets,
Popular Leasing, Popular Mortgage, Equity One and Best Finance, BanPonce's
investment banking, leasing, mortgage and consumer finance subsidiaries,
continued expanding their businesses to provide non-traditional banking products
and services. At year end 14% of the Corporation's income derived from these
non-traditional banking sources.

                                       19
<PAGE>   116

                   BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report

                  (PHOTO) A group of employees giving support


Banco Popular is capitalizing on its technological expertise to service other
banks in the region.

BanPonce's diversification efforts have also focused on providing innovative
alternatives to electronically process payments.

     In February, in conjunction with PaineWebber (Puerto Rico) Inc., BanPonce
structured and launched its fourth Puerto Rico Investors Tax-Free Fund. The
Puerto Rico Tax-Free Target Maturity Fund, an additional investment fund, was
also offered during the year. These funds are non-diversified closed-end
management investment funds that provide local investors with a high-level of
tax-exempt current income. At year end these funds had approximately $816
million, which generated $2.4 million in management and administration fees.

     BanPonce's diversification efforts have also focused on providing
innovative alternatives to electronically process payments. During 1996, Banco
Popular and Cruz Azul, the second largest medical insurance provider in Puerto
Rico, established a partnership to electronically process payments from the
insurer to doctors. This system eliminates paper-based transactions and
facilitates processing by including all coverage information on the card, thus
accelerating payments and reducing fraud and claims. By year end, terminals had
been installed in almost 3,000 physicians' offices, generating 38,000 monthly
transactions. The success in this area has prompted a bank in Chile and one in
the Philippines to consult with Banco Popular on how to establish similar
systems in their respective countries.

     Emerging markets abound in the Caribbean and Central American region and
possibilities for profits and growth exist in these markets for those willing to
search for opportunities and take the risk. Being in the region, Banco Popular
is in a unique position to identify these opportunities and capitalize on our
technological expertise, particularly in electronic networks and transaction
processing. Thus, in April of 1996, Banco Popular began to operate ATH
Dominicana, a joint venture with Codetel, the largest Dominican Republic
telephone company, and Banco Popular Dominicano, the

                        (PHOTO) a hand showing ATH Card

<PAGE>   117


Diversifying Our Financial Services

country's largest bank (no relation to BPPR), to provide ATM switching and
driving services to banks, and establish the first ATM network in the country.
By year end, ATH Dominicana connected seven banks and was operating a network of
102 machines. Building on this network, we are currently expanding our
electronic services and establishing a point-of-sale network in that country.

     Similarly, in June 1996 the Corporation reached an agreement with 16 Costa
Rican banks to provide ATM switching and driving services. This network should
be in operation by the first quarter of 1997, and by year end should be composed
of approximately 200 automatic teller machines.

     BanPonce's non-banking subsidiaries also expanded their reach and
businesses during 1996. BP Capital Markets, the Corporation's investment banking
subsidiary, managed 18 transactions totaling over $2.4 billion. Of these, 12
were completed in Puerto Rico and six in the United States. BP Capital Markets
actively participated in the financing of tourism-related projects in Puerto
Rico, such as the Westin Rio Mar Beach Resort & Country Club, The Ritz-Carlton
San Juan Hotel & Casino, Hostal El Convento and Hampton Inn Hotel. Over the past
three years, the hotel sector has been booming on the island and BP Capital's
business has reflected this trend.

     Popular Leasing, Banco Popular's leasing subsidiary, completed the
consolidation of operations with Velco, BanPonce's leasing subsidiary. It also
opened a new location in Humacao for a total of eight locations throughout
Puerto Rico. During the year, Popular Leasing expanded its products offering by
providing insurance premium financing services.

     Popular Consumer Services, Inc. (d/b/a Best Finance), Banco Popular's
consumer loan subsidiary, expanded from 30 to 35 offices in Puerto Rico, and had
asset growth of over 19%. Best Finance also expanded significantly its new
second mortgage business, which tripled during 1996.


ATH Dominicana

Number of Machines                 Number of Transactions
- ------------------                 ----------------------
3/96      12/96                        3/96       12/96

61         102                       275,000      566,000



    Banco Popular established ATM networks to provide switching and driving
               services in the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica.


          (GRAPH) Dominican Republic and Costa Rica geographic map




                                       21

<PAGE>   118

                   BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report

                   (PHOTO) Computerized Arts Graphic Design:


ENHANCING OUR COMMITMENT
TO A QUALITY ORGANIZATION
to better serve our customers

                                       22
<PAGE>   119

               Enhancing Our Commitment to a Quality Organization


                    (PHOTO) Computerized Arts Graphic Design


     Expanding on our established commitment with Total Quality and excellence
in everything we do, this year we have taken additional steps with the clear
objective of positioning the Corporation for the challenges of the new century.
New businesses, in new geographical areas, and increased client sophistication
and service expectations will require that the Corporation and its employees
possess the ability to constantly innovate to maintain BanPonce's competitive
edge and remain the financial service provider of choice at all times.

                                       23
<PAGE>   120

                   BanPonce Corporation ~ 1996 Annual Report

                      (PHOTO) - Two employee on a Teamwork

     Above: Through coaching and training, teamwork was emphasized in 1996.
Below: The Bank developed a new corporate image for branch employees in Puerto
Rico.

     To accomplish this goal successfully, employees have to be provided with
the necessary environment, skills and tools to meet the constantly changing
requirements of the financial services industry.

     Throughout the year, several strategies were implemented to improve
organizational effectiveness and strengthen the individual capacities of the
employees.

     During 1996, we made considerable inroads as we introduced initiatives to
optimize the effectiveness of the organizational system. We concentrated our
efforts in aligning individual and collective efforts throughout the Corporation
toward the achievement of high-priority issues. We made headway in facilitating
the necessary discipline to accomplish objectives in a coordinated and
synchronized fashion. Some of the initiatives put in place during the year
included the complete revision of the strategic planning process, the
introduction of service agreement contracts between areas of the Bank, team
training for personnel in newly established branches and the implementation of
re-engineering techniques to make processes more efficient and generate savings.

     The strategic planning process was refocused to facilitate coordination
within units. The implementation of this new system has resulted in improved
teamwork, coordination and prioritization. Similarly, the established service
agreements between the Operations Group and the Retail Banking and Commercial
Banking groups have achieved a more clear understanding of the needs of the
involved parties with the main objective of working together to offer improved
customer service. Re-engineering of the purchasing and platform processes have
also resulted

(PHOTO) - Two employee modeling the new uniforms for Branch personnel


                                       24

<PAGE>   121

               Enhancing Our Commitment to a Quality Organization

             (PHOTO) - A group of Employees attending to a Workshop


Above: Trainings have been instrumental in improving customer service.

Below Left: Our branch facilities and well-trained personnel reflect an emphasis
on a sales and service culture.

Below Right: The Bank's training center disseminates the Total Quality
philosophy across the Corporation.

in substantial improvements in customer service and significant cost reductions.
In addition to these initiatives, we continued our Total Quality efforts through
the implementation of Process Improvement Teams in key businesses and
departments. The effectiveness of the organizational system is only possible if
the individual capabilities of the employees are also strengthened. During the
year, a corporatewide survey was conducted in Puerto Rico to ensure that the
initiatives that are being implemented were responding to the needs of the
Corporation and employees.

     Individual initiatives to strengthen the capabilities of our employees
included a new corporate image that comprises stylish new uniforms, attitude 
training and a new merchandising system. These individual initiatives are being 
supported by the implementation of a new evaluation system that promotes 
increased differentiation between high and low performers.

     Proud of the achievements in this area during 1996, we recognize that to
accomplish the long-term goals of Total Quality will require that each employee
begin each work day with a renewed commitment to do things right the first time
and basing all decisions with the customer in mind.

(PHOTO) - A employee attending a customer

(PHOTO) - Exhibition At Training Center


<PAGE>   122

                   BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report


                  (PHOTO) - Computerized Arts Graphic Design:


COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
enhancing the social and economic conditions of the
communities we serve


                                       26
<PAGE>   123

                             Community Involvement

                  (PHOTO) - Computerized Arts Graphic Design:


        The economic welfare of a business is closely tied to the welfare of its
surrounding community. Since 1893 Banco Popular and its employees have
recognized these by actively participating and contributing to all aspects of
community life.

                                       27

<PAGE>   124

                   BanPonce Corporation - 1996 Annual Report

                    (PHOTO) - Children at Education Program


ABOVE: THE BANCO POPULAR FOUNDATION SUPPORTS GROUPS PRIMARILY WORKING IN THREE
AREAS: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, EDUCATION AND HEALTH.

BELOW: THE BANK RAISED FUNDS TO HELP NEEDY INSTITUTIONS AFFECTED BY THE
HURRICANE.

     More importantly, over the years Banco Popular has readily responded in
times of need. In 1996, Puerto Rico was hit by Hurricane Hortense. Banco Popular
immediately reactivated its Reconstruction Fund with an initial donation of
$100,000 and invited the public to contribute to the fund. Jointly with the
Fondo Dotal Enrique Marti Coll and the Caimito Tree Nursery, Banco Popular
promoted a tree sale to replace those destroyed by the hurricane and to help
raise money for the Reconstruction Fund. The fund raised a total of $150,000,
which was distributed among 13 institutions that suffered severe damages. In New
York, Bank employees fully participated in a telethon and other activities to
help raise funds for hurricane victims on the island.

     Similarly, in Costa Rica, where Banco Popular is establishing an ATH
network, the Corporation donated $25,000 to help relief efforts after Hurricane
Cesar hit the country.

     The most significant community work of the Corporation is done through the
Banco Popular Foundation, a non-profit organization established in 1979 to
support efforts dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of Puerto Ricans.
Through the Foundation, grants and donations are channeled to organizations that
have high community participation and which are primarily dedicated to promoting
community development, education and health.

     The Banco Popular Foundation has quickly risen to the forefront of
non-profit organizations on the island because of its generosity and the quality
of the projects it has chosen to support.

     Last year, the Foundation undertook over 15 major projects. The highlight
of the year was the project to expand the Jane Stern Dorado Community Library
with the adoption of an innovative campaign, designed to promote local
contributions. The Foundation made possible for them to match contributions for
their expansion program.

     Additionally, the Foundation continued to invest in community development
projects, housing development for disadvantaged communities, cultural
organizations, AIDS support groups and organizations that work with the
homeless.

     The well-being of a country rests primarily on the solid education of its
leaders. The Rafael Carrion Jr. Scholarship awarded its second scholarship for a
Puerto Rican student to attend The Wharton School of the University of
Pennsylvania. This scholarship is designed to enhance the quality of the future
business leaders of the island.

FONDO DE RECONSTRUCCION
BANCO POPULAR 1996

                                       28
<PAGE>   125
                     Community Involvement

     Aside from this scholarship, the Foundation has a strong college
scholarship program for the sons and daughters of employees. In 1996, this
program significantly grew, as the Foundation granted 82 scholarships, up from
64 in 1995.

     Banco Popular also administers a donations program independent of the
Foundation. During the course of 1996, over 1,000 donations were made to support
a wide range of activities, from the purchase of uniforms for Little League
teams to partially funding drug prevention campaigns.

     Approximately 50% of the funds in 1996 were distributed to community civic
organizations. The remaining funds were distributed among educational
institutions or scholarships, cultural affairs and sport activities.

     The Bank contributed to Puerto Rico's international presence in sports by
being a major sponsor of the World Gymnastic Championship held in San Juan. It
also actively participated in activities related to the visit of the
International Olympic Committee's evaluating commission to San Juan, as one of
the cities bidding for the 2004 Games.

     Major support for cultural activities is also one of the Bank's strengths.
Opera, theater, popular music and the annual Ponce Museum of Art fund-raising
gala are some of the areas in which the Bank plays a major role in enriching
community life. For the fourth consecutive year, the Bank produced a musical
documentary with the participation of more than 20 local and international
artists. The latest program, Al Compas de un Sentimiento, was a tribute to the
great Puerto Rican composer Pedro Flores, who was also acclaimed in many Latin
American countries. It was broadcast as a Christmas gift to the people of Puerto
Rico and Hispanic populations in United States markets in which the Bank has a
presence.

     During the year, the Bank continued to contribute to the enrichment of
public discourse by organizing two major exhibits at the Rafael Carrion Pacheco
Exhibition Hall in San Juan. Over 6,000 people visited The Disposable Island:
The Garbage Problem in Puerto Rico, which had been inaugurated in the fourth
quarter of 1995. Many more people visited the exhibit to listen to guest
lecturers.

     In the last quarter, Banco Popular opened its 11th exhibition: Ready!
Puerto Rico in International Sports (1930-2004). This exhibit drew record crowds
in 1996. Over the years, sports have acted as a unifying element contributing to
personal and collective advancement.

     Active community participation is not limited to the Corporation and Banco
Popular. Many of the Bank's employees are active members in civic organizations
throughout the island, contributing many hours to improving their surroundings.
This proactive stance is not limited to Puerto Rico; many of the Bank employees
in New York have been actively involved in events designed to raise funds for
worthy causes such as the March of Dimes, AidsWalk and Making Strides.

Whether through the Foundation, the Bank, or through its thousands of
employees, the Corporation endeavors to enrich the quality of the communities 
it serves.

Above: Sports-related activities are actively supported by the Bank.

Below left: The Bank produced and broadcast its fourth musical documentary as a
gift to the communities it serves.

(PHOTO) - Athletes at Track & Field starting Line

(PHOTO) - Mr. Richard L. Carrion presented a musical documentary Al Compas de un
Sentimentio.

(PHOTO) - Banco Popular Foundation Library



                                       29
<PAGE>   126
Lines of Business

Lines of Business (by location)

COMMERCIAL BANKING/
SAVINGS AND LOANS

PUERTO RICO
BANCO POPULAR
- -       Full-service commercial and retail banking subsidiary.
- -       Established in 1893.
- -       Total assets of $11.0 billion.
- -       Largest branch network in Puerto Rico with 178 branches.
- -       Most extensive ATM network "ATH" (at all times) with 327 ATMs.
- -       Leader in deposit market with $8.1 billion.
- -       Leader in loan market with $5.8 billion.
- -       Dominant player in electronic services.
- -       Banco Popular has at least one relationship with 66.6% of the banking
        consumer market in Puerto Rico.

UNITED STATES
BANCO POPULAR
(NEW YORK, CALIFORNIA AND ILLINOIS)

- -       Banco Popular branch network operating in New York, California and 
        Chicago.
- -       Opened first branch in 1961.
- -       Total assets of $2.4 billion, and $2 billion in deposits.
- -       Largest Hispanic branch network.
- -       Operates 29 branches in the New York City area, four in Los Angeles 
        county, and five in Chicago.
- -       Focus on serving individual, small businesses, and mortgage lending.

BANCO POPULAR, FSB (NEW JERSEY)

- -       Subsidiary of BanPonce Financial Corp.; a federal savings bank operating
        six branches in New Jersey.
- -       Total assets of $317 million, $212 million in total deposits and $142.6
        million in total loans.
- -       Established through the acquisition of the former Carteret Federal 
        Savings Bank.

CARIBBEAN
BANCO POPULAR
(BRITISH AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS)
- -       Banco Popular branch network in British and U.S. Virgin Islands.
- -       Entered the Virgin Islands market in 1981.
- -       Total assets of $620 million and $466 million deposits.
- -       Largest bank in the U.S. Virgin Islands with approximately 30% market
        share.
- -       Operates seven branches in the U.S. Virgin Islands and one in Tortola,
        British Virgin Islands; two consumer credit centers and two mortgage
        centers.

MORTGAGE BANKING
PUERTO RICO
POPULAR MORTGAGE, INC.
(D/B/A PUERTO RICO HOME MORTGAGE)
- -       BANCO POPULAR'S MORTGAGE BANKING SUBSIDIARY.
- -       Acquired in April 1995.
- -       Total assets of $155 million.
- -       Operates four offices located in the San Juan metropolitan area.

LEASING BUSINESS
PUERTO RICO
POPULAR LEASING AND RENTAL, INC.

- -       Popular Leasing, established in 1989, is engaged in finance leasing,
        equipment leasing and daily motor and equipment rental in the Puerto 
        Rico market.
- -       Total assets of $566 million.
- -       Operates five sales offices and eight daily rental outlets.

UNITED STATES
POPULAR LEASING USA

- -       Recently established subsidiary to offer small ticket equipment leasing.

CONSUMER FINANCE
PUERTO RICO
POPULAR CONSUMER SERVICES, INC.
(D/B/A BEST FINANCE)

- -       Small loan and secondary mortgage subsidiary.
- -       Established in 1970, acquired by BanPonce in 1987.
- -       Total assets of $116 million, with more than 54,000 accounts and $116
        million in loans.
- -       Five new offices were opened in 1996 for a total of 35.

UNITED STATES
EQUITY ONE, INC.

- -       Banco Popular, FSB; subsidiary engaged in the business of personal and
        mortgage loans and retail financing.
- -       Established in 1989, acquired by BanPonce in 1991.
- -       Total assets of $1.1 billion.
- -       Increased number of offices from 91 to 102; opened operations in two new
        states for a total of 28 states.

INVESTMENT BANKING
PUERTO RICO
BP CAPITAL MARKETS, INC.

- -       Securities broker-dealer in Puerto Rico, with brokerage, financial
        advisory, investment and security brokerage operations.
- -       Acquired from CS First Boston in April 1995.
- -       Executed a large variety of transactions that included public finance,
        corporate finance, asset finance, mortgage finance, real estate, 
        investment funds, and merger and acquisition transactions.
- -       Provided underwriting and/or investment banking services in 18 financing
        transactions totaling approximately $2.4 billion.

PROCESSING SERVICES
CARIBBEAN
ATH DOMINICANA

- -       Joint venture with Banco Popular Dominicano and Codetel to establish
        the ATH network.
- -       By year end seven banks were connected to the network, which operated 
        102 ATM machines. 

ATH COSTA RICA

- -       Reached an agreement with 16 Costa Rican banks to provide ATM switching
        and driving services.


                                       30
<PAGE>   127
                              BOARDS OF DIRECTORS

BOARDS OF DIRECTORS

BANPONCE CORPORATION


RICHARD L. CARRION
Chairman
President
Chief Executive Officer

ALFONSO F. BALLESTER
Vice Chairman of the Board
President
Ballester Hermanos, Inc.

ANTONIO LUIS FERRE
Vice Chairman of the Board
President
El Nuevo Dia

JUAN J. BERMUDEZ
Partner
Bermudez & Longo, S.E.

FRANCISCO J. CARRERAS
Educator
Executive Director
Fundacion Angel Ramos, Inc.

DAVID H. CHAFEY JR.
Senior Executive Vice President
BanPonce Corporation and
  Banco Popular de Puerto Rico

LUIS E. DUBON JR., ESQ.
Partner
Dubon & Dubon


HECTOR R. GONZALEZ
President
Chief Executive Officer
TPC Communications of
  PR, Inc., and Teleponce Cable
  TV, Inc.

JORGE A. JUNQUERA
Senior Executive Vice President
BanPonce Corporation and
  Banco Popular de Puerto Rico

MANUEL MORALES JR.
Principal
Selarom Capital Group

ALBERTO M. PARACCHINI
Private Investor

FRANCISCO PEREZ JR.
Chairman of the Board
President
Sucrs. Jose Lema & Co., Inc.

FRANCISCO M. REXACH JR.
President
Ready Mix Concrete, Inc.

JOSE E. ROSSI
President
V & Q Management, Inc.

FELIX J. SERRALLES NEVARES
President
Chief Executive Officer
Destileria Serralles, Inc.

EMILIO JOSE VENEGAS
Secretary, Board of Directors
Venegas Construction Corp.
President
Sanson Corporation

JULIO E. VIZCARRONDO JR.
President
Chief Executive Officer
Desarrollos Metropolitanos, Inc.

  SAMUEL T. CESPEDES, ESQ.
  Secretary
  Board of Directors
  
  ERNESTO N. MAYORAL, ESQ.
  Assistant Secretary
  Board of Directors
  
  BRUNILDA SANTOS DE ALVAREZ,
  ESQ.
  Assistant Secretary
  Board of Directors


BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

RICHARD L. CARRION
Chairman
President
Chief Executive Officer

ALFONSO F. BALLESTER
Vice Chairman of the Board
President
Ballester Hermanos, Inc.

ANTONIO LUIS FERRE
Vice Chairman of the Board
President
El Nuevo Dia

JUAN A. ALBORS HERNANDEZ
Chairman
Chief Executive Officer
Albors Development Corp.

SALUSTIANO ALVAREZ MENDEZ
President and Director
Mendez & Company, Inc.

JOSE A. BECHARA BRAVO
President
Empresas Bechara Inc.

JUAN J. BERMUDEZ
Partner
Bermudez & Longo, S.E.

ESTEBAN D. BIRD
President
Chief Executive Officer
Bird Construction Company, Inc.

FRANCISCO J. CARRERAS
Educator
Executive Director
Fundacion Angel Ramos, Inc.

DAVID H. CHAFEY JR.
Senior Executive Vice President
BanPonce Corporation and
  Banco Popular de Puerto Rico

LUIS E. DUBON JR., ESQ.
Partner
Dubon & Dubon

HECTOR R. GONZALEZ
President
Chief Executive Officer
TPC Communications of
  PR, Inc., and Teleponce Cable
  TV, Inc.

JORGE A. JUNQUERA
Senior Executive Vice President
BanPonce Corporation and
  Banco Popular de Puerto Rico

FRANKLIN A. MATHIAS
Retired Executive

MANUEL MORALES JR.
Principal
Selarom Capital Corp.

ALBERTO M. PARACCHINI
Private Investor

FRANCISCO M. REXACH JR.
President
Ready Mix Concrete, Inc.

FELIX J. SERRALLES NEVARES
President
Chief Executive Officer
Destileria Serralles, Inc.

JULIO E. VIZCARRONDO JR.
President
Chief Executive Officer
Desarrollos Metropolitanos, Inc.

  SAMUEL T. CESPEDES, ESQ.
  Secretary
  Board of Directors
  
  ERNESTO N. MAYORAL, ESQ.
  Assistant Secretary
  Board of Directors
  
  BRUNILDA SANTOS DE ALVAREZ,
  ESQ.
  Assistant Secretary
  Board of Directors


                                       31

<PAGE>   128
MANAGEMENT

MANAGEMENT

BANPONCE CORPORATION
RICHARD L. CARRION
Chairman
President
Chief Executive Officer

DAVID H. CHAFEY JR.
Senior Executive Vice President

JORGE A. JUNQUERA
Senior Executive Vice President

MARIA ISABEL P. DE BURCKHART
Executive Vice President

ROBERTO R. HERENCIA
Executive Vice President

LARRY B. KESLER
Executive Vice President

HUMBERTO MARTIN
Executive Vice President

EMILIO E. PINERO FERRER, ESQ.
Executive Vice President

CARLOS ROM JR.
Executive Vice President

  AMILCAR L. JORDAN, ESQ.
  Senior Vice President
  
  FELIX VILLAMIL
  Senior Vice President

BANCO POPULAR

RICHARD L. CARRION
Chairman
President
Chief Executive Officer

SENIOR MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

RICHARD L. CARRION
President
Chief Executive Officer

DAVID H. CHAFEY JR.
Senior Executive Vice President

JORGE A. JUNQUERA
Senior Executive Vice President

MARIA ISABEL P. DE BURCKHART
Executive Vice President

ROBERTO R. HERENCIA
Executive Vice President

LARRY B. KESLER
Executive Vice President

HUMBERTO MARTIN
Executive Vice President

EMILIO E. PINERO FERRER, ESQ.
Executive Vice President

CARLOS ROM JR.
Executive Vice President

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

  TERE LOUBRIEL
  Senior Vice President
  Total Quality
  
  BRUNILDA SANTOS DE ALVAREZ,
  ESQ.
  Senior Vice President
  Legal Division
  
  FELIX VILLAMIL
  Senior Vice President
  Internal Auditor

RETAIL BANKING GROUP

DAVID H. CHAFEY JR.
Senior Executive Vice President

  JORGE BIAGGI
  Senior Vice President
  Hato Rey Region
  
  FRANCISCO CESTERO
  Senior Vice President
  Caguas/Fajardo Region
  
  NORMAN IRIZARRY
  Senior Vice President
  Western Region
  
  CARLOS J. MANGUAL
  Senior Vice President
  Ponce Region
  
  WILBERT MEDINA
  Senior Vice President
  Bayamon Region
  
  MARITZA MENDEZ
  Senior Vice President
  San Juan Region
  
  MIGUEL RIPOLL
  Senior Vice President
  Rio Piedras Region
  
  ELI SEPULVEDA JR.
  Senior Vice President
  Arecibo/Manati Region
  
  JUAN GUERRERO
  Senior Vice President
  Financial and Investment
  Services
  
  NESTOR O. RIVERA
  Senior Vice President
  Retail Banking
  
  LIZZIE ROSSO
  Senior Vice President
  Alternative Delivery Channels

RETAIL CREDIT GROUP

LARRY B. KESLER
Executive Vice President

  JORGE J. BESOSA
  Senior Vice President
  Individual Lending
  
  FELIPE FRANCO
  Senior Vice President
  Mortgage Loans
  
  VALENTINO I. MCBEAN
  Senior Vice President
  Virgin Islands Region


COMMERCIAL BANKING GROUP

EMILIO E. PINERO FERRER, ESQ.
Executive Vice President

  ARNALDO SOTO COUTO
  Senior Vice President
  Construction Loans
  
  CYNTHIA TORO
  Senior Vice President
  Business Banking
  
  RICARDO TORO
  Senior Vice President
  Corporate Banking
  
  MARIA FUENTES
  Vice President
  Structured Finance

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT GROUP

JORGE A. JUNQUERA
Senior Executive Vice President

  ROBERTO R. HERENCIA
  Executive Vice President
  U.S. Expansion
  
  CARLOS ROM JR.
  Executive Vice President
  Caribbean and Latin America
  Expansion
  
  RICHARD BARRIOS
  Senior Vice President
  Investments and Treasury
  
  ORLANDO BERGES
  Senior Vice President
  New York/New Jersey Region
  
  LUIS R. CINTRON, ESQ.
  Senior Vice President
  Trust
  
  AMILCAR L. JORDAN, ESQ.
  Senior Vice President
  Comptroller
  
  IVAN PAGAN
  Vice President
  Mergers and Acquisitions

ADMINISTRATION GROUP

MARIA ISABEL P. DE BURCKHART
Executive Vice President

  EDUARDO RODRIGUEZ
  Senior Vice President
  Human Resources
  
  LUIS F. RODRIGUEZ VILLAMIL
  Senior Vice President
  Marketing
  
  LUZ M. TOUS DE TORRES
  Senior Vice President
  Corporate Real Estate
  
  GINORIS LOPEZ-LAY
  Vice President
  Strategic Planning
  
  EVELYN VEGA SELLA
  Vice President
  Public Relations and
  Communications


OPERATIONS GROUP

HUMBERTO MARTIN
Executive Vice President

  SEGUNDO BERNIER
  Senior Vice President
  Operations
  
  VICTOR V. ECHEVARRIA
  Senior Vice President
  Management Information
  Systems
  
  EDUARDO FIGUEROA
  Senior Vice President
  Electronic Banking Services
  
  PLINIO RODRIGUEZ
  Senior Vice President
  Security
  
  MARGARITA HERRERA, ESQ.
  Vice President
  Consumer Compliance
  
  RAFAEL LUGO SOTOMAYOR, ESQ.
  Vice President
  Financial Compliance
  
  MARTA RAMOS
  Vice President
  Community Reinvestment

OTHER SUBSIDIARIES


BP CAPITAL MARKETS, INC.

KENNETH MCGRATH
President

BANCO POPULAR (ILLINOIS)

S. MICHAEL POLANSKI
President

BANCO POPULAR, FSB

RICHARD L. CARRION
President

BANCO POPULAR N.A. (CALIFORNIA)

RICHARD F. DEMERJIAN
President

EQUITY ONE, INC.

THOMAS J. FITZPATRICK
President

POPULAR CONSUMER SERVICES, INC.

D/B/A BEST FINANCE
Edgardo Novoa
President

POPULAR LEASING AND RENTAL, INC.

ANDRES F. MORRELL
President

POPULAR LEASING USA

BRUCE D. HORTON
President

POPULAR MORTGAGE, INC.

D/B/A PUERTO RICO HOME
  MORTGAGE
CHURCHILL CAREY
President


                                       32

<PAGE>   129

                                      10-K
                               FINANCIAL SUMMARY



                                       33
<PAGE>   130
STOCKHOLDERS' INFORMATION                              
                                                       
INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS                         
Price Waterhouse                                       
                                                       
ANNUAL MEETING                                         
The 1997 annual stockholders' meeting of BanPonce      
Corporation will be held on Friday, April 25, at 10:00 a.m.
at Centro Europa Building in San Juan, Puerto Rico.   
         Telephone (787) 765-9800                           
         Fax (787) 759-7803                            
                                                       
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION                                 
Copies of the Annual Report to the Securities and      
Exchange Commission on Form 10-K and any other         
financial information may be obtained by writing to:   
         Amilcar L. Jordan                             
         Senior Vice President                         
         Banco Popular de Puerto Rico                  
         PO Box 362708                                 
         San Juan, PR 00936-2708                       
                                                       
DESIGN:                                                
                                                       
BD&E Inc., Pittsburgh,Pennsylvania                     
                                                       
ILLUSTRATION:                                          
Raul Colon                                             
                                                       
PHOTOGRAPHY:                                           
Mark Bolster                                           
                                                       
PRINTING:                                              
Arthurs-Jones, Inc.                                    
                                                       



<PAGE>   1

                                                                    EXHIBIT 21.1

                              BANPONCE CORPORATION

                             AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1996


Subsidiaries of the registrant

a.       Banco Popular de Puerto Rico (Banco Popular) - A wholly-owned
         subsidiary Bank, incorporated under the laws of Puerto Rico in 1917.

                 Popular Leasing and Rental, Inc. (Popular Leasing) - A wholly
                 owned subsidiary of Banco Popular, incorporated under the laws
                 of Puerto Rico in 1989.

                 Popular Consumer Services, Inc. (Best Finance) - A
                 wholly-owned subsidiary of Banco Popular, incorporated under
                 the laws of Puerto Rico in 1989.

                 Popular Mortgage Inc. (Puerto Rico Home Mortgage) - A
                 wholly-owned subsidiary of Banco Popular, incorporated under
                 the laws of Puerto Rico in 1995.


b.       Popular International Bank, Inc. - A wholly-owned subsidiary,
         incorporated under the laws of Puerto Rico in 1992.

                 BanPonce Financial Corp. - A wholly-owned subsidiary of
                 Popular Intenational Bank, Inc.,  incorporated under the laws
                 of Delaware in 1991.

                 Banco Popular FSB, A wholly-owned subsidiary of BanPonce
                 Financial Corp., chartered in New Jersey in 1995.

                 Equity One, Inc. - A wholly-owned subsidiary, of Banco
                 Popular, FSB, incorporated under the laws of Delaware in
                 1988.

                 Pioneer Bancorp., Inc. - A wholly-owned subsidiary, of
                 BanPonce Financial Corp., incorporated under the laws of
                 Delaware in 1988.

                 River Associates Bancorp, Inc. - A wholly-owned subsidiary, of
                 Pioneer Bancorp, Inc., incorporated under the laws of Delaware
                 in 1986.

                 Combankcorp, Inc.- A wholly-owned subsidiary of BanPonce
                 Financial Corp., incorporated under the laws California in
                 1982.

                 Banco Popular, N.A. - California (Formerly Commerce National
                 Bank) A wholly-owned subsidiary of Combancorp, Inc.
                 incorporated under the laws of California in 1982.



                                                                            -1- 
<PAGE>   2


                                                           EXHIBIT 21.1 (CONT.)


c.       BP Capital Markets, Inc. - A wholly-owned subsidiary, incorporated
         under the laws of Puerto Rico in 1995.

d.       Metropolitana de Prestamos, Inc. - A wholly-owned subsidiary,
         incorporated under the laws of Puerto Rico in 1961.

e.       Popular Securities, Inc. -  A wholly-owned subsidiary, incorporated
         under the laws of Puerto Rico in 1994 (Inactive Corporation).


f.       Puerto Rico Parking Corp. -  A wholly-owned subsidiary, incorporated
         under the laws of Puerto Rico in 1963 (Inactive Corporation).






                                                                            -2-

<PAGE>   1




                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1

                     CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


February 21,  1997



To the Board of Directors
BanPonce Corporation

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Prospectus
constituting part of the Registration Statement on Form S-3 No. 33-61601 of
BanPonce Corporation of our report dated February 21, 1997, appearing on page
F-35 of  the Annual Report to Shareholders of BanPonce Corporation which is
incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10K.


PRICE WATERHOUSE







                                                                           -1-

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 9
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF BANPONCE CORPORATION FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDED
DECEMBER 31, 1996, AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1996
<CASH>                                         492,368
<INT-BEARING-DEPOSITS>                          19,023
<FED-FUNDS-SOLD>                               778,597
<TRADING-ASSETS>                               292,150
<INVESTMENTS-HELD-FOR-SALE>                  3,415,934
<INVESTMENTS-CARRYING>                       1,197,066
<INVESTMENTS-MARKET>                         1,197,641
<LOANS>                                      9,779,028
<ALLOWANCE>                                    185,574
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                              16,764,103
<DEPOSITS>                                  10,763,275
<SHORT-TERM>                                 3,309,471
<LIABILITIES-OTHER>                            314,012
<LONG-TERM>                                  1,111,713
                                0
                                    100,000
<COMMON>                                       396,531
<OTHER-SE>                                     766,001
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES-AND-EQUITY>              16,764,103
<INTEREST-LOAN>                                924,076
<INTEREST-INVEST>                              280,610
<INTEREST-OTHER>                                68,167
<INTEREST-TOTAL>                             1,272,853
<INTEREST-DEPOSIT>                             350,221
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                             591,540
<INTEREST-INCOME-NET>                          681,313
<LOAN-LOSSES>                                   88,839
<SECURITIES-GAINS>                               3,094
<EXPENSE-OTHER>                                541,919
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                256,027
<INCOME-PRE-EXTRAORDINARY>                     185,150
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                   185,150
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     2.68
<EPS-DILUTED>                                        0
<YIELD-ACTUAL>                                    4.49
<LOANS-NON>                                    145,416
<LOANS-PAST>                                    12,270
<LOANS-TROUBLED>                                 3,308
<LOANS-PROBLEM>                                140,549
<ALLOWANCE-OPEN>                               168,393
<CHARGE-OFFS>                                  107,961
<RECOVERIES>                                    35,901
<ALLOWANCE-CLOSE>                              185,574
<ALLOWANCE-DOMESTIC>                           184,771
<ALLOWANCE-FOREIGN>                                803
<ALLOWANCE-UNALLOCATED>                              0
        

</TABLE>

<PAGE>   1
                             BANPONCE CORPORATION
                               P.O. BOX 362708
                       SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO 00936-2708

                               ---------------

                   NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
                     TO BE HELD ON FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 1997

                               ---------------

To the Stockholders of BanPonce Corporation:

   NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of BanPonce
Corporation (the "Meeting") for the year 1997 will be held at 10:00 a.m. on
Friday, April 25, 1997, on the third floor of the Centro Europa Building, in
Santurce, Puerto Rico, to consider and act upon the following matters:

   (1) To elect three (3) directors of BanPonce Corporation (the "Corporation")
for a three-year term;

   (2) To amend Article First of the Restated Articles of Incorporation to
change the name of the Corporation to Popular, Inc;

   (3) To amend Article Fifth of the Restated Articles of Incorporation to
increase the authorized numbers of shares of common stock, par value $6, from
90,000,000 to 180,000,000 and;

   (4) To transact any and all other business as may be properly brought before
the Meeting or any adjournments thereof.  Management at present knows of no
other business to be brought before the Meeting.

   Stockholders of record at the close of business on March 7, 1997, are
entitled to notice of and vote at the Meeting.

   You are cordially invited to attend the Meeting.  Whether you plan to attend
or not, please sign and return the enclosed proxy so that the Corporation may
be assured of the presence of a Quorum at the Meeting.  A postage-paid envelope
addressed to the Corporation is enclosed for your convenience.

San Juan, Puerto Rico, March 20, 1997.

                                            By Order of the Board of Directors,


                                               SAMUEL T. CESPEDES
                                               Secretary
<PAGE>   2
                             BANPONCE CORPORATION
                               P.O. BOX 362708
                       SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO 00936-2708

                               ---------------

                               PROXY STATEMENT
                    FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
                     TO BE HELD ON FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 1997

                               ---------------

   This Proxy statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation by the
Board of Directors of BanPonce Corporation (the "Corporation") of Proxies to be
voted at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Meeting") to be held at 10:00
a.m. on Friday, April 25, 1997, on the third floor of the Centro Europa
Building, in Santurce, Puerto Rico, and any adjournments thereof.  Enclosed with
this Proxy Statement is the Annual Report, including Form 10-K and the
financial statements for the year ended December 31, 1996, duly certified by
Price Waterhouse as independent public accountants.  This Proxy Statement, the
enclosed Annual Report and Form 10-K, the Notice of Annual Meeting of
Stockholders and the form of proxy are being sent to stockholders on or about 
March 20, 1997.

   Properly executed proxies received by the Secretary of the Corporation will
be voted at the Meeting in accordance with the instructions that appear therein
and for the purposes indicated on the Notice of Meeting.  The Board of
Directors does not intend to present any business at the Meeting other than
those included in the Notice of Meeting.  The Board of Directors at this time
knows of no other matters that may come before the Meeting.  However, if any
new matters requiring the vote of the stockholders properly come before the
Meeting, proxies may be voted with respect thereto in accordance with the best
judgement of Proxyholders, under the discretionary power granted by
stockholders to their proxies in connection with general matters.

                           SOLICITATION OF PROXIES

   In addition to solicitation by mail, management may participate in the
solicitation of Proxies by telephone, personal interviews or otherwise.  The
Board of Directors has engaged the firm of Georgeson & Company Inc. to aid in
the solicitation of Proxies.  The cost of solicitation will be borne by the
Corporation and is estimated at $6,500.

                            REVOCABILITY OF PROXY

   Any stockholder giving a proxy has the power to revoke it before the proxy
is exercised.  The grantor may revoke the proxy by claiming at the Meeting the
right to vote by himself the shares of stock registered in his name or by
notice of revocation in writing to the President or Secretary of BanPonce
Corporation, P.O. Box 362708, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-2708, delivered
before the proxy is exercised.

                              VOTING SECURITIES

   The only outstanding voting securities of the Corporation are its shares of
common stock, each share of which entitles the holder thereof to one vote. 
Only common stockholders of record at the close of business on March 7, 1997
(the "Record Date"), will be entitled to vote at the Meeting and any
adjournments thereof.  On the Record Date there were 66,121,855 shares of
common stock of the Corporation outstanding.  The shares covered by any 
such proxy that are properly executed and received by management before
10:00 a.m. on the day of the Meeting will be voted.

      The presence, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the
outstanding shares of common stock of the Corporation is necessary to
constitute a quorum at the Meeting.  Votes cast by proxy or in person at the
Meeting will be counted by the people appointed by the Corporation as members
of the vote-counting committee for the Meeting.  For purposes of determining
quorum, the members of the vote-counting committee will treat abstentions and
broker non-votes as shares that are present and entitled to vote.  A broker
non-vote results when a broker or nominee has expressly indicated in the proxy
that it does not have discretionary authority to vote on a particular matter.
As to the election of Directors, the proxy card being provided by the Board of
Directors enables a stockholder to vote for the election of the nominees
proposed by the Board, or to withhold authority to vote for one or more of the
nominees being proposed.
<PAGE>   3
Directors will be elected by a majority of the votes cast.  Therefore,
abstentions and broker non-votes will not have an effect on the election of
directors of the Corporation.  As to the proposals to amend the Restated
Articles of Incorporation, abstentions and broker non-votes will have the same
effect as a vote against the proposals to amend the Restated Articles of
Incorporation to change the name of the Corporation and to increase the number
of authorized common shares of the Corporation.

                            PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

   Following is the information, to the extent known by the people on whose
behalf this solicitation is made, with respect to any person (including any
"group" as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities and Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended) who is known to the Corporation to be the beneficial
owner of more than 5 percent of the Corporation's voting securities.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                               AMOUNT AND NATURE      PERCENT
                                                                 OF BENEFICIAL           OF
TITLE OF CLASS      NAME AND ADDRESS OF BENEFICIAL OWNER           OWNERSHIP(1)       CLASS(2)
- --------------      ------------------------------------           ------------       --------
<S>                 <C>                                            <C>                <C>

Common............  Banco Popular de Puerto Rico (the "Bank")
                    As Trustee for Banco Popular de Puerto Rico
                    Retirement Plan                                2,836,430

                    The Bank as Trustee for the Profit Sharing
                    Plan for the Employees of Banco Popular
                    de Puerto Rico                                 2,660,696
                                                                   ---------
                                                                   5,497,126(3)       8.3136
                                                                                 
Common............  State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance                       
                    Company                                        3,670,062(4)       5.5505
</TABLE>                                                                        


- ------------------

(1)   As of February 28, 1997.
(2)   Based on 66,121,855 shares of common stock outstanding.
(3)   The Bank, as Trustee, administers both Plans through their Administrative
      Committees, with sole voting and investment power.
(4)   On January 3, 1997, State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company
      ("State Farm") and affiliated entities filed a joint statement on Schedule
      13-G with the Securities and Exchange Commission reflecting its holdings
      as of December 31, 1996.  According to said statement, State Farm and its
      affiliates might be deemed to constitute a "group" within the meaning of
      Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  State Farm 
      and its affiliates could also be deemed to be the beneficial owners of
      3,670,062 shares of BanPonce Corporation.  However, State Farm and each
      such affiliate disclaim beneficial ownership as to all shares as to which
      each such person has no right to receive the proceeds of sale of the
      shares, and also disclaim that they constitute a "group".


                                       2
<PAGE>   4
                    SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY DIRECTORS,
               NOMINEES AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE CORPORATION

         Following is the information, as of February 28, 1997, as to equity
securities of the Corporation beneficially owned by all current directors,
nominees, the most highly compensated Executive Officers of the Corporation who
are not directors and the total owned by directors, nominees and all Executive
Officers of the Corporation as a group:

                                  COMMON STOCK

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME                                         TITLE OF       AMOUNT AND NATURE      PERCENT OF
- ----                                          CLASS      OF BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP    CLASS(1)
                                              -----      -----------------------    --------
<S>                                           <C>             <C>                   <C>
Alfonso F. Ballester .......................  Common            689,104(3)          1.0422
Juan J. Bermudez ...........................  Common            138,122(4)           .2089
Francisco J. Carreras ......................  Common              5,474              .0083
Richard L. Carrion .........................  Common            511,698(5)           .7739
David H. Chafey, Jr. .......................  Common             31,628              .0478
Luis E. Dubon, Jr. .........................  Common            885,594(6)          1.3393
Antonio Luis Ferre .........................  Common          1,424,340(7)          2.1541
Hector R. Gonzalez .........................  Common            262,263(8)           .3966
Jorge A. Junquera ..........................  Common             18,909(9)           .0286
Manuel Morales, Jr. ........................  Common            348,982(10)          .5278
Alberto M. Paracchini ......................  Common             55,812(11)          .0844
Francisco Perez, Jr. .......................  Common                483              .0007
Francisco M. Rexach, Jr. ...................  Common             60,521(12)          .0915
Jose E. Rossi ..............................  Common             44,756(13)          .0677
Felix J. Serralles, Jr. ....................  Common            179,830(14)          .2720
Emilio Jose Venegas ........................  Common            163,868(15)          .2478
Julio E. Vizcarrondo, Jr. ..................  Common            556,939(16)          .8423
Maria Isabel P. de Burckhart ...............  Common             23,443(17)          .0355
Roberto R. Herencia ........................  Common                 36(18)          .0001
Larry B. Kesler ............................  Common             17,816              .0269
Humberto Martin ............................  Common             29,490              .0446
Emilio E. Pinero ...........................  Common             13,229              .0200
Carlos Rom, Jr. ............................  Common              5,800(19)          .0088

All Directors and Executive Officers
  of the Corporation as a group ............  Common          5,468,137             8.2698
</TABLE>

                                PREFERRED STOCK

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME                                         TITLE OF       AMOUNT AND NATURE      PERCENT OF
- ----                                          CLASS      OF BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP    CLASS(2)
                                              -----      -----------------------    --------
<S>                                           <C>                <C>                 <C>
Luis E. Dubon, Jr. .........................  Preferred           7,375(20)          .1844
Alberto M. Paracchini ......................  Preferred           7,000              .1750

All Directors and Executive Officers
  of the Corporation as a group ............  Preferred          14,375              .3594
</TABLE>

- ----------
(1)      Based on 66,121,855 shares of common stock outstanding.
(2)      Based on 4,000,000 shares of preferred stock outstanding.
(3)      Mr. Ballester owns 687,104 shares and has indirect investment power
         over 2,000 shares owned by his wife. Excludes 600,964 shares owned by
         his sister, Mrs. Griselda Ballester, as to all of which shares Mr.
         Ballester disclaims indirect voting power.


                                       3

<PAGE>   5
(4)      Excludes 5,839 shares owned by his wife, as to which Mr. Bermudez
         disclaims indirect voting power.
(5)      Mr. Carrion owns 137,193 shares and also has indirect investment power
         over 11,961 shares owned by his children. Junior Investment Corporation
         owns 2,080,000 shares of the Corporation. Mr. Carrion owns 17.43% of
         the shares of said corporation.
(6)      Mr. Dubon owns 91,266 shares and has a power of attorney over 57,608
         shares owned by his wife, Mrs. Myrta A. Dubon, over 35,829 shares held
         in trust for his children and 700,891 shares owned by various
         corporations and members of his family in which Mr. Dubon has direct or
         indirect ownership.
(7)      Mr. Ferre has indirect investment and voting power and claims
         beneficial ownership of 1,424,340 shares of the Corporation. Mr. Ferre
         owns 384 shares and has indirect investment and voting power over
         249,600 shares owned by Alfra Investment Corp. and 200 shares owned by
         his wife. Mr. Ferre owns 87.18% of Ferre Investment Fund, Inc., which
         owns 455,800 shares of the Corporation. Mr. Ferre also owns 67.25% of
         the shares of El Dia, Inc., and has indirect voting power over Alfra
         Investment Corp., which owns 19.94% of El Dia, Inc., which owns in turn
         718,356 shares of the Corporation.
(8)      Mr. Gonzalez owns 253,587 shares and has voting and investment power
         over 8,676 shares of the Corporation owned by TPC Financial Services,
         Inc. of which he is President and Chief Executive Officer.
(9)      Mr. Junquera owns 18,694 shares and has indirect investment power over
         215 shares owned by his daughter.
(10)     Mr. Morales owns 158,928 shares and has voting power over 190,054
         shares owned by his parents, as their attorney-in-fact.
(11)     Excludes 632 shares owned by his wife, as to which Mr. Paracchini
         disclaims beneficial ownership.
(12)     Mr. Rexach owns 35,521 shares and has voting power over 20,000 shares
         owned by his mother, as her attorney-in-fact, and over 5,000 shares
         held by Capital Assets, Inc. as President and shareholder.
(13)     Mr. Rossi owns 17,537 shares and has indirect investment power over
         27,219 shares owned by his daugthers.
(14)     Mr. Serralles Nevares owns 113,376 shares, and has indirect voting
         power over 5,146 shares owned by his wife. Mr. Serralles owns 100% of
         the shares of each of Capitanejo, Inc. and Fao Investment, Inc., which
         own 58,510 and 2,798 shares, respectively, of the Corporation.
(15)     Mr. Venegas owns 15,384 shares, and also has indirect investment power
         over 15,000 shares owned by his wife. Mr. Venegas also has indirect
         voting and investment power over the 30,000 shares of the Corporation
         owned by Venegas Construction Corporation, of which he is stockholder
         and secretary and over 103,484 shares of the Corporation owned by
         Sanson Corporation, of which he is President and stockholder.
(16)     Mr. Vizcarrondo owns 99,440 shares and has indirect voting power over
         89,131 shares owned by his wife. Mr. Vizcarrondo's wife owns 17.71% of 
         the shares of Junior Investment Corporation, which owns 2,080,000
         shares of the Corporation. Mr. Vizcarrondo has indirect voting and
         investment power over 300 shares held in trust by Vicar Enterprises,
         Inc. for the benefit of his children, for which he disclaims
         beneficial ownership. Mr. Vizcarrondo also disclaims beneficial
         ownership over 62,523 shares owned by DMI Pension Trust, where he
         serves as trustee and member of the investment committee. Excluded
         also are 11,452 shares owned by Mr. Vizcarrondo as trustee of the
         Suarez Toro Trust, which owns said shares of the Corporation, of       
         which he disclaims beneficial ownership.
(17)     Mrs. Burckhart owns 22,020 shares and has indirect voting power over
         800 shares held by her husband and over 623 shares held by her husband
         as custodian for her daughters.
(18)     Mr. Herencia acquired 5,141 additional shares on March 3, 1997.
(19)     Mr. Rom owns 5,497 shares and has indirect voting power over 69 shares
         owned by his wife and 234 shares held by him as custodian for various
         members of his family.  Mr. Rom acquired 4,476 additional shares on
         March 5, 1997.
(20)     Mr. Dubon owns 1,000 preferred shares, and has indirect beneficial
         ownership over 5,875 preferred shares held in trust by Mr. Luis E.
         Dubon, Jr. for several people. Mr. Dubon also has indirect ownership
         over 500 preferred shares owned by Fundacion Gogui, Inc.



                                       4
<PAGE>   6

            SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE

         Based on a review of Forms 3, 4 and 5 and amendments thereto furnished
to the Corporation with respect to its 1996 fiscal year, pursuant to Section
16(a) of the Securiries Exchange Act of 1934, the following people, subject to
Section 16(a), failed to file on a timely basis:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME                            NUMBER OF LATE REPORTS   NUMBER OF TRANSACTIONS
- ----                            ----------------------   ----------------------
<S>                                     <C>                       <C>
Juan J. Bermudez                        1                         2
Francisco J. Carreras                   1                         2
Antonio Luis Ferre                      1                         4
Franklin A. Mathias                     2                         2
Manuel Morales, Jr.                     1                         2
Francisco M. Rexach, Jr.                2                         2
Jose E. Rossi                           1                         3
Felix J. Serralles, Jr.                 1                         1
Emilio Jose Venegas                     1                         5
Julio E. Vizcarrondo, Jr.               2                         2
Maria Isabel P. de Burckhart            1                         1
</TABLE>

         The Corporation has no knowledge of any additional failure to file a
required Form.

                       BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEES
                       PROPOSAL 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

         The Certificate of Incorporation and the By-laws of the Corporation
establish a classified Board of Directors pursuant to which the Board of
Directors is divided into three classes as nearly equal in number as possible,
with each class having at least three members and with the term of office of one
class expiring each year. Each director serves for a term ending on the date of
the third annual meeting of stockholders following the annual meeting at which
such director was elected.

         At the Meeting, three (3) directors assigned to "Class 1" are to be
elected until the 2000 Annual Meeting of Stockholders or until their respective
successors shall have been elected and qualified. The directors nominated for
election are: Salustiano Alvarez Mendez, Alfonso F. Ballester and Jorge A.
Junquera. All of the above will serve for three (3) years until the 2000 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders or until their respective successors shall have been
elected and qualified. The remaining 12 directors of the Corporation will serve
as directors, as follows: until the 1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the
Corporation, in the case of those five directors assigned to "Class 2", and
until the 1999 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, in the case of those seven
directors assigned to "Class 3", or in each case until their successors are duly
elected and qualified.

         The policy of the Board of Directors, as set forth in a resolution
adopted on January 8, 1991, provides that no person shall be nominated for
election or reelection as director of the Board if at the date of the Annual
Meeting of Stockholders or during the term to be served such person attains
seventy two (72) years of age. Messrs. Emilio Jose Venegas and Jose Rossi would
attain seventy two (72) years of age during the term to be served. In accordance
with Board policy, Messrs. Venegas and Rossi will not be nominated for
reelection as directors. Mr. Francisco Perez, Jr. declined to be renominated for
reelection. Mr. Perez's decision is not due to disagreement with the Corporation
or with any matter relating to the Corporation's operations.



                                       5
<PAGE>   7
         The people named as proxies in the accompanying Form of Proxy have
advised the Corporation that, unless otherwise instructed, they intend to vote
at the meeting the shares covered by the proxies FOR the election of the three
nominees named before, and that if any one or more of such nominees should
become unavailable for election they intend to vote such shares FOR the election
of such substitute nominees as the Board of Directors may propose. The
Corporation has no knowledge that any nominee will become unavailable for
election.

         Information relating to principal occupation and business experience
during the past five (5) years (including position held with the Corporation or
the Bank), age and the period during which each director has served is set forth
below.

                               BOARD OF DIRECTORS
                       NOMINEES FOR ELECTION AS DIRECTORS
                            (TERMS EXPIRING IN 2000)
                               CLASS 1 DIRECTORS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                           DIRECTOR OF
                                         PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION AND BUSINESS               THE CORPORATION
         NAME              AGE         EXPERIENCE DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS                  SINCE
         ----              ---         -------------------------------------                  -----
<S>                        <C>    <C>                                                         <C>
Salustiano Alvarez Mendez...67     President and Director of Mendez & Company,                 Nominee 
                                    Inc., food and liquor importers and distributors. 
                                    Director of International Shipping Agency, Inc.,
                                    shipping agents. Director of Menaco Corp., 
                                    Guaynabo Realty S.E. and A. & D. Associates, Inc.,
                                    ALECO Realty and Bamco Products Corp. until 1995. 
                                    Director of Banco de Ponce from 1981 to 1990 and 
                                    of the Bank from 1991 to April 1997.
                                    
                                    

Alfonso F. Ballester.......67     Vice Chairman of the Board of the                            1990
                                    Corporation and the Bank. President of       
                                    Ballester Hermanos, Inc. (Wholesale of       
                                    provisions and liquors). Director of Popular 
                                    International Bank, Inc., BanPonce Financial 
                                    Corp, Equity One, Inc., and Popular Leasing  
                                    & Rental, Inc. Chairman of the Commercial 
                                    Credit Committee of the Bank.  Director of 
                                    the Bank since 1975.                                        
                                    
                                    

Jorge A. Junquera..........48     Supervisor of the Financial Management                       1990
                                    Group, the U.S. Operations and the Caribbean
                                    and Latin America Expansion Group since     
                                    January 1996. Supervisor of the Bank's      
                                    Retail Banking Group until December 1995.   
                                    Senior Executive Vice President since       
                                    October 1995. Executive Vice President of   
                                    the Bank since 1980. President and Director 
                                    of Popular International Bank, Inc. and     
                                    BanPonce Financial Corp since January 1996. 
                                    Director of Equity One, Inc., Popular       
                                    Consumer Services, Inc., Popular Mortgage   
                                    Inc., Pioneer Bancorp, Inc., Banco Popular, 
                                    Illinois, CombanCorp, Banco Popular, N.A.   
                                    (California), Citizens Bank Limited,        
                                    Jamaica, and Popular Leasing & Rental, Inc. 
                                    Chairman of the Board of BP Capital Markets,
                                    Inc. since January 1996, and of Puerto Rico 
                                    Tourism Company and Hotel Development Co.   
                                    since 1993. Director of YMCA since 1988.    
                                    Director of the Bank since 1990.            
</TABLE>



                                       6
<PAGE>   8

                                OTHER DIRECTORS
                               CLASS 2 DIRECTORS
                            (TERMS EXPIRING IN 1998)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                           DIRECTOR OF
                                         PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION AND BUSINESS               THE CORPORATION
         NAME              AGE         EXPERIENCE DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS                  SINCE
         ----              ---         -------------------------------------                  -----
<S>                        <C>    <C>                                                         <C>
Luis E. Dubon, Jr..........62     Attorney-at-Law and Investor. Partner of the                1984
                                    law firm Dubon & Dubon. Director and
                                    stockholder of D Group Capital Corporation,
                                    D Group Corporation, Delta Maintenance
                                    Services Inc. Director and partner of D
                                    Group Equity Holding Associates, S. en C.
                                    por A., S.E., D Group Commercial Equities
                                    Associates S. en C. por A., S.E. Director of
                                    American Investment Corp., Fundacion Gogui,
                                    Inc., Carite Resorts Associates, S.en C. por
                                    A., S.E., Carite Resorts GP, Inc., Carolina
                                    Developers Associates, S.en C. por A., S.E.,
                                    Contorno Developers Associates, S. en C. por
                                    A., S.E., Contorno Developers GP, Inc., D
                                    Group Commercial Equities GP, Inc., D Group
                                    Equities Management Services, Inc., D Group
                                    Equity Holding GP, Inc., D Group Realty
                                    Services, Inc., Delta Engineering Services,
                                    Inc., Delta Parking System Corporation,
                                    Dubon Corporation, Executive Habitats, Inc.,
                                    Galeria del Condado Associates, S.en C. por
                                    A., S.E., Galeria del Condado GP, Inc., 
                                    Imporexco, Inc., Lujoma Corporation, 
                                    Marina Developers (Carolina) GP, Inc., 
                                    Mercantil Caguax Associates, S. en C. por 
                                    A., S.E., Mercantil Caguax GP, Inc.,
                                    Mercantil Mayaguez Associates, S. en C. por
                                    A., S.E., Mercantil Mayaguez GP, Inc.,
                                    Mercantil Pinero Associates, S. en C. por
                                    A., S.E., Mercantil Pinero GP, Inc.,
                                    Mercantil San Patricio Associates, S. en C.
                                    por A., S.E., Mercantil San Patricio GP,
                                    Inc., Metro Center Associates, S. en C. por
                                    A., S.E., Metro Center GP Corporation, Plaza
                                    Bellas Artes GP, Inc., Plaza Bellas Artes
                                    Associates Uno S. en C. por A., S.E., Plaza
                                    Bellas Artes Associates Dos S. en C. por A.,
                                    S.E., Plaza Bellas Artes Associates Tres S.
                                    en C. por A., S.E., Plaza Bellas Artes
                                    Associates IV, S. en C. por A., S.E., Plaza
                                    del Condado Associates, S. en C. por A.,
                                    S.E., Plaza del Condado GP, Inc., Portilla
                                    Corporation, Puerta del Condado Associates,
                                    S. en C. por A., S.E., Puerta del Condado GP
                                    Inc., Resort Equities Developers GP, Inc.,
                                    San Jose Building Associates, S. en C. por
                                    A., S.E., San Jose Building GP, Inc., Title
                                    & Corporate Services Corporation and San
                                    Jose Development, Inc. Director of Banco de
                                    Ponce from 1973 to 1990. Director of the
                                    Bank since 1990.

Hector R. Gonzalez.........63     President and Chief Executive Officer of TPC                1984
                                    Communications of PR, Inc. owner and
                                    operator of cable television systems.
                                    President and Chief Executive Officer of TPC
                                    Financial Services, Inc., TPC Cable Media,
                                    TelePonce Cable TV and Telecell Systems.
                                    Director of Damas Foundation, Inc. Director
                                    of Popular Consumer Services, Inc. and
                                    Popular Mortgage, Inc. Director of Banco de
                                    Ponce from 1973 to 1990. Director of the
                                    Bank since 1995.

</TABLE>



                                       7
<PAGE>   9

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                           DIRECTOR OF
                                         PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION AND BUSINESS               THE CORPORATION
         NAME              AGE         EXPERIENCE DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS                  SINCE
         ----              ---         -------------------------------------                  -----
<S>                        <C>    <C>                                                         <C>
Manuel Morales, Jr.........51     President of Selarom Capital Group, Inc.                    1990
                                    President of Parkview Realty, Inc. President
                                    of the Atrium Office Center, Inc. Honorary
                                    General Consul of Japan in San Juan. Trustee
                                    of Sacred Heart University and Caribbean
                                    Environmental Development Institute. Member
                                    of the Board of Directors of Better Business
                                    Bureau. Member of the Board of Trustees of
                                    Fundacion Banco Popular, Inc. Chairman of the
                                    Audit Committee of the Corporation. Director of
                                    the Bank since 1978.

Francisco M. Rexach, Jr....59     President of Ready Mix Concrete, Inc.                       1990
                                    President of Capital Assets, Inc. since
                                    November 1995. Director of Popular Leasing &
                                    Rental, Inc. Chairman of the Human Resources and
                                    Compensation Committee of the Bank. Director of 
                                    the Bank since 1984.

Julio E. Vizcarrondo, Jr...62     Civil Engineer. President/Partner and Chief                 1990
                                    Executive Officer of Desarrollos
                                    Metropolitanos, S.E., VMV Enterprises Corp.,
                                    Resort Builders, S.E., Metropolitan
                                    Builders, S.E., Institutional Builders,
                                    S.E., corporations engaged in the
                                    development and construction of residential,
                                    commercial, industrial and institutional
                                    projects in Puerto Rico. Director of the
                                    Bank since 1984.

                                                         CLASS 3 DIRECTORS
                                                     (TERMS EXPIRING IN 1999)

Juan J. Bermudez...........59     Electrical Engineer. Partner of Bermudez and                1990
                                    Longo, S.E., Decemcor, S.E., Unisouth, S.E.,
                                    Unicenter, S.E., Unicourts, S.E., Unieast,
                                    S.E., Unigardens, S.E., Uninorth, S.E.,
                                    Baldwin Development, S.E., Paseo Sereno,
                                    S.E. and PCME Commercial, S.E. Principal
                                    Stockholder and Director of BL Management,
                                    Corp., Paseomar Corp., PCME Development,
                                    Inc. Principal stockholder of G.S.P. Corp.
                                    and Unimanagement Corp. Chairman of the 
                                    Fiduciary Committee of the Bank. Director 
                                    of the Bank since 1985.

Francisco J. Carreras......64     Former professor of the University of Puerto                1990
                                    Rico. Member of the Board of Trustees of
                                    Fundacion Banco Popular, Inc. Executive
                                    Director of Fundacion Angel Ramos, Inc.
                                    Chairman of the Community Reinvestment 
                                    Committee of the Bank. Director of the Bank 
                                    since 1979.

Richard L. Carrion.........44     Chairman, President and Chief Executive                     1990
                                    Officer ("CEO") of the Corporation, of the
                                    Bank and Banco Popular, FSB. Chairman of
                                    Popular International Bank, Inc. and
                                    BanPonce Financial Corp. Chairman of the
                                    Board of Trustees of Fundacion Banco
                                    Popular, Inc. Director of Equity One, Inc.,
                                    Popular Consumer Services, Inc., Popular
                                    Leasing & Rental, Inc., Pioneer Bancorp,
                                    Inc., Popular Mortgage, Inc., CombanCorp and
                                    BP Capital Markets, Inc. Member of the Board
                                    of Trustees of the American Management
                                    Association. Member of Puerto Rico's
                                    Commission for the 2004 Olympiad. Member of
                                    the International Olympic Committee. Member
                                    of the Board of Directors and Compensation
                                    Committee of Pueblo Xtra International, Inc.
                                    until March 31, 1995. Chairman and President
                                    of Puerto Rico Investors Tax-Free Funds,
                                    Inc. I, II, III, IV and of Puerto Rico
                                    Tax-Free Target Maturity Fund, Inc. Member
                                    of the Board of 
</TABLE>



                                       8
<PAGE>   10

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                           DIRECTOR OF
                                         PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION AND BUSINESS               THE CORPORATION
         NAME              AGE         EXPERIENCE DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS                  SINCE
         ----              ---         -------------------------------------                  -----
<S>                        <C>    <C>                                                         <C>
                                    Directors of the Company for the Development 
                                    of the Cantera Peninsula and the Board of 
                                    Trustees of the Puerto Rico Committee for 
                                    Economic Development. Director of NYNEX 
                                    Corporation (registered public company). 
                                    Chairman of the Executive Committee of the 
                                    Corporation. Director of the Bank since 1982.

David H. Chafey, Jr........43     Supervisor of Bank's Retail Banking Group                   1996
                                    since January 1996. Supervisor of the
                                    Financial Management Group and U.S.
                                    Operations until December 1995. Senior
                                    Executive Vice President since October 1995.
                                    Executive Vice President of the Bank since
                                    January 1990. Chairman of BP Capital
                                    Markets, Inc. until January 1996. Executive
                                    Vice President and Director of Popular
                                    International Bank, Inc. and BanPonce
                                    Financial Corp. President of Popular
                                    International Bank, Inc. and BanPonce
                                    Financial Corp until December 1995. Director
                                    of Equity One, Inc., Popular Consumer
                                    Services, Inc., Popular Leasing & Rental,
                                    Inc., BP Capital Markets, Inc., Pioneer
                                    Bancorp, Inc. and Banco Popular, FSB.
                                    Chairman of the Puerto Rico Telephone
                                    Authority since 1993. Executive Vice
                                    President of Puerto Rico Investors Tax-Free
                                    Fund, Inc. I, II, III, IV and Puerto Rico
                                    Tax-Free Target Maturity Fund, Inc. Director
                                    of the Bank since 1994.

Antonio Luis Ferre.........63     Vice Chairman of the Board of the Corporation               1984
                                    and the Bank. Chairman of the Board of
                                    Puerto Rican Cement Co., Inc. (registered
                                    public company), manufacturers of cement and
                                    allied products. President and Editor of El
                                    Dia, Inc., a newspaper publishing company.
                                    Director of Metropolitan Life Insurance
                                    Company (registered company under the
                                    Investment Company Act of 1940). Member of
                                    the Director's Committee of Metropolitan
                                    Life Insurance Company since January 1,
                                    1996. Director of Pueblo Xtra International,
                                    Inc. until March 1995. Director of Pueblo
                                    Xtra Supermarkets. Director of Banco de
                                    Ponce from 1959 to 1990. Director of the
                                    Bank since 1990.

Alberto M. Paracchini......64     Former Chairman of the Board of the                         1984
                                    Corporation and the Bank. Former Chairman of
                                    BanPonce Financial Corp, Equity One, Inc.,
                                    Popular Consumer Services, Inc. and Popular
                                    Leasing & Rental, Inc. Member of the Board
                                    of Trustees of Fundacion Banco Popular, Inc.
                                    Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Sacred
                                    Heart University in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
                                    Director of Puerto Rican Cement Co., Inc.
                                    (registered public company). Director of HDA
                                    Management Corp. since 1993. Director of
                                    Equus Management Co. and Managing General
                                    Partner of Equus Gaming Co., L.P. (listed on
                                    the American Stock Exchange). Director of
                                    Venture Capital Fund, Inc. Executive Officer
                                    of the Corporation from 1984 to April 1993.
                                    Director of Banco de Ponce from 1959 to
                                    1990. Chairman of the Investment Committee 
                                    of the Bank. Director of the Bank since 1990.

</TABLE>



                                       9
<PAGE>   11

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>                                                              
                                                                                          DIRECTOR OF
                                      PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION AND BUSINESS                 THE CORPORATION
         NAME              AGE      EXPERIENCE DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS                    SINCE
         ----              ---      -------------------------------------                    -----
<S>                               <C>                                                         <C>
Felix J. Serralles, Jr.....62     President and Chief Executive Officer of                    1984
                                    Empresas Serralles, Inc. and of its
                                    subsidiary Destileria Serralles, Inc.,
                                    manufacturers and distributors of distilled
                                    spirits, and of its affiliate Mercedita
                                    Leasing, Inc. Director of Banco de Ponce
                                    from 1966 to 1990. Director of the Bank
                                    since 1990.
</TABLE>

                              STANDING COMMITTEES

         The Board of Directors of the Corporation met on a monthly basis during
1996. All directors, except Antonio Luis Ferre, Alberto M. Paracchini and Felix
J. Serralles, Jr. attended 75% or more of the meetings of the Board of Directors
and the committees of the Board of Directors on which such directors served.

         The Corporation's Board of Directors has a standing Audit and Executive
Committee. The Board of Directors of the Bank, the principal subsidiary of the
Corporation, has a standing Human Resources and Compensation Committee that may
review compensation matters for the Corporation. There is no standing Nominating
Committee but the Executive Committee charter provides that said Executive
Committee may exercise the power to nominate directors. However, in the past the
Executive Committee has not exercised such function and nominations have been
made by the Board of Directors.  Information regarding the Audit and Human 
Resources Committees follows:

AUDIT COMMITTEE

         The functions of the Audit Committee include reviewing the accounting
principles and practices employed by the Corporation, and compliance with
applicable laws and regulations. The Committee meets with the Corporation's
independent external auditors to review their audit procedures, the report on
their examination of the Corporation's financial statements, and their comments
on the system of internal controls. Also, the Committee oversees the internal
audit function and reviews the reports prepared by the Auditing Division on
their examinations of the operating and business units and for any other special
examinations that may be required. The Committee held four meetings during the
fiscal year ended December 31, 1996.

         The Committee members during 1996 were: Francisco J. Carreras, Luis E.
Dubon, Jr., Hector R. Gonzalez, Manuel Morales, Jr. and Emilio Jose Venegas.
None of the members of the committee are officers or employees of the
Corporation or any of its subsidiaries.

HUMAN RESOURCES AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEE

         The functions of the Human Resources and Compensation Committee include
reviewing the compensation and benefits of management and employees, reviewing
the policies related to the performance and compensation of management and
employees, and reviewing the long-range planning for executive development and
succession. The Committee held one meeting during the fiscal year ended December
31, 1996.

         The Committee members during 1996 were: Salustiano Alvarez Mendez,
Esteban D. Bird, Hector R. Gonzalez, Francisco M. Rexach, Jr. and Julio E.
Vizcarrondo, Jr. None of the members of the Committee are officers or employees
of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries.

                           COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS

         Directors who are not employees of the Corporation and its subsidiaries
were entitled to be reimbursed for certain expenses up to $12,000 annually.
Effective August 15, 1996, the Board of Directors of the Corporation established
a Stock Deferment Plan, pursuant to which each outside director of the
Corporation will be given the option to defer all or a portion of the $12,000
annual retainer. The deferred portion, plus an additional amount of $0.25 for
each dollar so deferred, is being applied toward the purchase in the open market
of shares of the Corporation's common stock on 



                                       10
<PAGE>   12
behalf of the director, with the certificates representing such shares to be
retained by the Corporation until the director's membership in every Board
terminates. In addition, each director shall have the right to vote and to
receive any dividends payable on the shares held for said director under the
Plan, but no such shares shall be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged or in
any other way encumbered by the director until the certificates representing
such shares are delivered to the director. In the event that a director is
removed for cause from office by appropriate corporate action or under
authority of law, said director (1) shall be obligated to sell to the
Corporation all of the shares acquired with the deferred retainer amount at a
price equal to the lower of (a) the actual cost of the purchase of said shares
and (b) the market price of said shares on the date the director was
discharged, and (2) shall forfeit to the Corporation all of the shares
purchased with any additional contribution.              

         In addition, directors receive $750 for attending each Board of
Directors' meeting, $1,000 for attending each Executive Committee's meeting and
$500 for attending each of the other committee meetings. Directors who are
employees do not receive fees for attending Board of Directors or committee
meetings.

                               EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

         The following table sets forth the names of the executive officers (the
"Executive Officers") of the Corporation including their age, business
experience during the past five (5) years and the period during which each such
person has served as an Executive Officer of the Corporation or the Bank.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                  EXECUTIVE 
                                                                                                                   OFFICER   
                                                                                                                    OF THE    
                                                                    PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION AND BUSINESS            CORPORATION
         NAME                    TITLE               AGE          EXPERIENCE DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS             SINCE
         ----                    -----               ---          -------------------------------------             -----
<S>                        <C>                        <C>    <C>                                                     <C>
Richard L. Carrion ........Chairman, President        44     See under "Board of Directors"                          1990
                           and  CEO

Jorge A. Junquera .........Senior Executive           48     See under "Board of Directors"                          1990
                           Vice President

David H. Chafey, Jr. ......Senior Executive           43     See under "Board of Directors"                          1990
                           Vice President

Maria Isabel P.            
   de Burckhart ...........Executive                  47     Supervisor of the Administration Group.                 1990
                           Vice President                      Executive Vice President of the Bank since  
                                                               January 1990. Executive Vice President of   
                                                               BanPonce Financial Corp. Member of the Board
                                                               of Trustees of Fundacion Banco Popular, Inc.
                                                               Member of the Board of Directors of         
                                                               Fundacion Ana G. Mendez since 1992. Member  
                                                               of the Board of Directors of Puerto Rico    
                                                               Community Foundation since 1993. Member of  
                                                               the Board of Directors of Puerto Rico       
                                                               Convention Bureau since 1993.               
                                                               
Roberto R. Herencia .......Executive                  37     Head of the Corporation's U.S. business                 1997
                           Vice President                      expansion. Executive Vice President since   
                                                               January 1997. Director of BanPonce Financial
                                                               Corp, Banco Popular, FSB, Equity One, Inc., 
                                                               Pioneer Bancorp, Inc., Banco Popular,       
                                                               Illinois, Banco Popular, N.A. (California)  
                                                               and CombanCorp. Senior Vice President from  
                                                               December 1991 to December 1996. Vice        
                                                               President and U.S. Senior Credit Officer    
                                                               from April to December 1991.                
                                                               
</TABLE>




                                       11
<PAGE>   13
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                  EXECUTIVE 
                                                                                                                   OFFICER   
                                                                                                                    OF THE    
                                                                    PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION AND BUSINESS            CORPORATION
         NAME                TITLE                    AGE         EXPERIENCE DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS             SINCE
         ----                -----                    ---         -------------------------------------             -----
<S>                        <C>                        <C>      <C>                                                   <C>
Larry B. Kesler ...........Executive                  59       Supervisor of the Retail Credit and the               1990
                           Vice President                        Virgin Islands Region. Executive Vice     
                                                                 President of the Bank since January, 1990.
                                                                 Executive Vice President of BanPonce      
                                                                 Financial Corp. Chairman of the Board of 
                                                                 Directors of Equity One, Inc., Popular    
                                                                 Consumer Services, Inc. and Popular       
                                                                 Mortgage, Inc.                            

Humberto Martin ...........Executive                  51       Supervisor of the Operations Group.                   1986
                           Vice President                        Executive Vice President of the Bank since
                                                                 November 1986. Executive Vice President of
                                                                 BanPonce Financial Corp.                  
                                                                 
Emilio E. Pinero ..........Executive                  48       Supervisor of the Commercial Banking Group.           1990
                           Vice President                        Executive Vice President of the Bank since 
                                                                 January 1990. Chairman of the Board of     
                                                                 Popular Leasing & Rental, Inc. since April 
                                                                 1995. Director of Popular Mortgage, Inc.   
                                                                 since January 1995. Member of the Board of 
                                                                 Directors of Robert Morris Associates since
                                                                 1995. Member of the Board of Trustees of   
                                                                 Fundacion Felisa Rincon de Gautier and     
                                                                 Fundacion Sor Isolina Ferre, since 1995.   
                                                                 Member of the Board of Trustees of Inter   
                                                                 American University of Puerto Rico since   
                                                                 1994. Executive Vice President of BanPonce 
                                                                 Financial Corp.                            

Carlos Rom, Jr. ...........Executive                  40       Head of the Corporation's Caribbean and Latin         1997
                           Vice President                        America business expansion. Executive Vice
                                                                 President since January 1997. Director of 
                                                                 Citizens Bank Limited, Jamaica since March
                                                                 1996, and of ATH Dominicana, Inc. since   
                                                                 December 1995. Chairman of the Board of 
                                                                 Directors of ATH Costa Rica since June 25, 
                                                                 1996. Senior Vice President from September 
                                                                 1995 to December 1996.
                                             
Samuel T. Cespedes ........Secretary of the           60       Attorney-at-Law. Proprietary partner of the           1991
                           Board of Directors                    law firm McConnell, Valdes. Secretary of the
                                                                 Board of Directors of the Bank since 1991.  
                                                                 Secretary of the Board of Directors of      
                                                                 BanPonce Financial Corp, Equity One, Inc.,  
                                                                 Popular Leasing & Rental, Inc. and Popular  
                                                                 Consumer Services, Inc.                     
</TABLE>


                                       12
<PAGE>   14


                              FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS

         Mr. Richard L. Carrion, Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of the
Corporation and the Bank, is brother-in-law of Mr. Julio E. Vizcarrondo, Jr.,
Director. Mr. Alfonso F. Ballester, Director, is brother-in-law of Mr. Hector R.
Gonzalez, Director.

OTHER RELATIONSHIPS AND TRANSACTIONS

         During 1996 the Bank engaged the legal services of the law firm of 
Dubon & Dubon of which director Luis E. Dubon, Jr. is a partner, and of
McConnell, Valdes of which Mr. Samuel T. Cespedes, Secretary of the Board of
Directors of the Corporation and the Bank, is a partner. The amount of fees
paid to Dubon & Dubon by the Corporation and its subsidiaries during 1996
fiscal year was $248,045. The amount of fees paid to McConnell, Valdes did not
exceed 5% of the law firm's revenues for its last full fiscal year.

         The Bank has had loan transactions with the Corporation's directors and
officers, and with their associates, and proposes to continue such transactions
in the ordinary course of its business, on substantially the same terms as those
prevailing for comparable loan transactions with other people and subject to the
provisions of the Banking Act of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the
applicable federal laws and regulations. The extensions of credit have not
involved nor presently involve more than normal risks of collectibility or other
unfavorable features.

                         EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION PROGRAM
             REPORT OF THE BANK'S HUMAN RESOURCES AND COMPENSATION
                      COMMITTEE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

OVERVIEW

         The Bank's Human Resources and Compensation Committee ("The Human
Resources Committee") consists of five non-employee directors. The Committee
endeavors to keep abreast of competitive compensation practices in regard to
salaries, incentives compensation and supplemental programs, that will retain
top-quality executive officers who will enhance shareholder value through
sustained growth.

         The Human Resources Committee evaluates and recommends to the Board of
Directors the Corporation's compensation policy for the Chairman, President and
CEO, and Executive Officers. The Human Resources Committee considers among other
factors, competitive pay practices for developing a stronger relationship
between executive compensation and the Bank's long-term performance. It is kept
appraised of such competitive pay practices by an independent consultant who
conducts a periodical analysis of executive compensation of a peer group of
financial institutions similar in size, scope and business orientation ( the
"Peer Group"). On an annual basis the banking peer group used by the Committee
for comparison purposes is reviewed in light of industry developments, and
significant mergers/acquisitions, to ensure that it is consistent with the
Corporation's size and focus. The Peer Group currently consists of eleven
regional banking organizations with a retail banking emphasis. The Peer Group
used for this purpose has no intentional relation to the companies included in
the S&P 500 Index or the S&P Bank Composite Index against which the
Corporation's shareholder return is compared in the Corporation's performance
graph included on page 20.

         The Executive Compensation Program for principal officers of the
Corporation's subsidiaries is set according to the industry and geographical
area in which they operate, and is approved by the Board of Directors of each
entity.

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, PRESIDENT AND CEO, MR. RICHARD L. CARRION

         Effective March 1996, Mr. Carrion's base salary was increased to
$500,000 in order to align base compensation to Peer Group's levels, more
specifically, to the corresponding performance quartile within the Peer Group.
Commencing in 1996 and prospectively thereafter, the Corporation's Executive
Committee requires Mr. Carrion to submit to the Committee a plan setting forth
both quantitative and intangible goals applicable to each year. Evaluations will
be made considering the goals set forth in the yearly plan.




                                       13
<PAGE>   15
         The Executive Committee evaluates Mr. Carrion's performance by taking
into consideration the growth of the organization, implementation of a
diversification strategy, achievement of financial goals, improvements to the
product and service delivery system and development of human resources. The
weight and significance accorded to these factors is subjective in nature and
the weight assigned to each factor in determining compensation adjustments
cannot be quantified.

         Mr. Carrion participates in an annual incentive program designed to
enhance achievement of short-term financial goals and to increase shareholder
value. The first incentive component could represent 15% of base salary if net
income target is met, and if the net income target is exceeded it could reach
25%. Although the threshold continues to be 100% of target, the Human Resources
Committee may recommend a discretionary bonus if results obtained are at least
95% of the pre-established financial target. The second component, designed to
enhance an increase in shareholder value, could range from 5% to 30% of base
salary, depending on the return on equity (ROE) obtained. Additionally, the
bonus award may be increased by 25% when shareholder return exceeds 20%
annually on a consecutive three-year period. Total shareholder return is
calculated by taking into account the compounded annual yield of the stock,
considering the market appreciation, dividends paid and dividend reinvestment.
The maximum total incentive bonus that may be awarded could be 68.75% of basic
salary if all components of the bonus program are achieved.

         In 1996, all pre-established financial goals were exceeded and a bonus
of 68.75% was awarded. Net income after tax for the Corporation was 12% over
budget, ROE achieved was 15 basis points over the predetermined target of
16%, and total shareholder return surpassed 20% annually for the three-year
period ended December 31, 1996.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

         The group of Executive Officers is composed of two Senior Executive
Vice Presidents and six Executive Vice Presidents, all of whom participate in
the Profit Sharing, Annual Incentive and Long-Term Incentive Plans. The
President and CEO recommends to the Board of Directors of the Bank, for their
approval, the salary increases and the bonuses to be awarded to the Executive
Officers pursuant to the incentive plans.

         The salary increase program allows discretionary salary increases based
on individual performance to be twice than that based on team increases. It
provides the CEO the opportunity to recognize changes in individual
responsibilities and performance levels.

         Each Executive Officer participates in the Annual Incentive Plan. In
1996 the pre-determined financial targets were achieved and a bonus of 68.75%
was awarded to six of them. Since, two of them were recently promoted to
Executive Vice Presidents in 1997, their incentive bonus for 1996 was equivalent
to that of a Senior Vice President as their previous positions. Their 1996 bonus
ranged from 36% to 37.5% of their base salary. 

                   HUMAN RESOURCES AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEE

           Salustiano Alvarez Mendez           Francisco M. Rexach, Jr.
           Esteban D. Bird                     Julio E. Vizcarrondo, Jr.
           Hector R. Gonzalez



                                       14
<PAGE>   16
                             EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

         The following table sets forth all cash compensation paid by the
Corporation or its subsidiaries to the nine highest paid Executive Officers of
the Corporation and the principal officers of the Corporation's or the Bank's
subsidiaries for 1996.

                           SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             ANNUAL COMPENSATION                           LONG-TERM   
                                                FISCAL  ------------------------------    ALL OTHER      INCENTIVE PLAN
                                                 YEAR   SALARY(A) BONUS(B)    OTHER(C)  COMPENSATION(D)    PAYOUTS(E)     TOTAL  
                                                 ----   --------- --------    --------  ---------------  --------------   -----  
<S>                                              <C>    <C>        <C>           <C>        <C>             <C>          <C>     
Richard L. Carrion ..........................    1996   $475,000   $399,889      -0-        $ 56,558        $55,535      $986,982
  Chairman,                                      1995    350,000     75,107      -0-          36,744          -0-         461,851
  President and CEO                              1994    330,000     39,712      -0-          37,556          -0-         407,268
                                                                                                                                 
Jorge A. Junquera ...........................    1996    291,351    240,468      -0-          35,305         36,449       603,573
  Senior Executive Vice President                1995    245,042     53,096      -0-          25,690          -0-         323,828
  of the Corporation                             1994    227,222     26,927      -0-          25,859          -0-         280,008
                                                                                                                                 
David H. Chafey, Jr .........................    1996    290,451    240,357      -0-          35,196         35,660       601,664
  Senior Executive Vice President                1995    239,713     51,897      -0-          25,680          -0-         317,290
  of the Corporation                             1994    222,118     26,287      -0-          25,278          -0-         273,683
                                                                                                                       
Larry B. Kesler .............................    1996    207,488    168,163      -0-          25,143         29,023       429,817
  Executive Vice President of the Corporation    1995    195,168     42,238      -0-          20,909          -0-         258,315
                                                 1994    180,975     21,396      -0-          20,596          -0-         222,967
                                                                                                                                 
Maria Isabel P. de Burckhart ................    1996    201,285    162,919      -0-          24,391         28,377       416,972
  Executive Vice President of the Corporation    1995    190,848     41,309      -0-          20,446          -0-         252,603
                                                 1994    177,100     20,938      -0-          20,155          -0-         218,193
                                                                                                                                 
Humberto Martin .............................    1996    198,391    161,198      -0-          24,039         27,337       410,965
  Executive Vice President of the Corporation    1995    183,695     39,732      -0-          19,679          -0-         243,106
                                                 1994    170,337     20,114      -0-          19,385          -0-         209,836
                                                                                                                                 
Emilio E. Pinero ............................    1996    188,677    152,579      -0-          22,863         26,835       390,954
  Executive Vice President of the Corporation    1995    180,337     39,118      -0-          18,733          -0-         238,188
                                                 1994    167,471     20,159      -0-          19,059          -0-         206,689
                                                                                                                                 
Roberto R. Herencia(f) ......................    1996    180,000     88,366      -0-          21,782          -0-         290,148
  Executive Vice President of the Corporation                                                                                    
                                                                                                                                 
Carlos Rom, Jr. (f) .........................    1996    155,100     74,562      -0-          18,794          -0-         248,456
  Executive Vice President of the Corporation                                                                                    
                                                                                                                                 
Thomas J. Fitzpatrick .......................    1996    275,000    156,000      -0-          72,288          -0-         503,288
  President of Equity One, Inc. (a wholly-owned  1995    260,000    690,048    153,700        54,934          -0-       1,158,682
  subsidiary of Banco Popular, FSB)              1994    236,250    150,000      -0-          15,708          -0-         401,958
                                                                                                                                 
Michael Polanski ............................    1996    152,000    176,962      -0-           3,032          -0-         331,994
  President of Pioneer Bancorp, Inc.             1995    144,610     53,625      -0-          10,123          -0-         208,358
  (a wholly-owned subsidiary of BanPonce         1994    145,000     10,109      -0-           7,000          -0-         162,109
  Financial Corp.)                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                                 
Churchill Carey(f) ..........................    1996    150,000      6,000      -0-           3,750          -0-         159,750
  President of Popular Mortgage, Inc.            1995    112,500      2,885      -0-           3,375          -0-         118,760
  (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank)                                                                                        
                                                                                                                                 
Kenneth McGrath(f) ..........................    1996    150,000    188,200      -0-          65,750          -0-         403,950
  President of BP Capital Markets, Inc.          1995    100,000    128,940      -0-           8,750          -0-         237,690
  (a wholly-owned subsidiary of                                                                                                  
  the Corporation)                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                                 
Andres F. Morrell ...........................    1996    132,000     45,100      -0-           3,750          -0-         180,850
 President of Popular Leasing & Rental,          1995    130,998      5,300      -0-          12,638          -0-         148,936
  Inc. (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the         1994    120,116     25,680      -0-             -0-          -0-         145,796
  Bank)                                                                                                                          
                                                                                                                                 
Edgardo Novoa ...............................    1996    128,858     39,692      -0-           3,742          -0-         172,292
  President of Popular Consumer Services, Inc.   1995    118,000     22,736      -0-           1,975          -0-         142,711
  (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank)        1994    110,000     19,460      -0-             -0-          -0-         129,460
</TABLE>



                                       15
<PAGE>   17
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                           LONG-TERM
                                                FISCAL        ANNUAL COMPENSATION           ALL OTHER    INCENTIVE PLAN
                                                 YEAR    SALARY(a)  BONUS(b)  OTHER(c)   COMPENSATION(d)   PAYOUTS(e)      TOTAL
                                                 ----    ---------  --------  --------   ---------------   ----------      -----
<S>                                              <C>      <C>         <C>       <C>             <C>            <C>          <C>
Richard F. Demerjian(f) .....................    1996     37,876      -0-       -0-             -0-            -0-          37,876
  President and CEO of CombanCorp
  (a wholly-owned subsidiary of BanPonce
  Financial Corp)
</TABLE>    

- ----------

(a)      Salaries before deductions.
(b)      For the Bank's Senior Management Committee (SMC) bonus amount includes
         Christmas bonus, the bonus awarded under the Annual Management
         Incentive Compensation Plan and the cash portion payable under the
         Profit Sharing Plan of the Bank, which is described on page 18. For
         Messrs. Morrell, Novoa and McGrath amount includes Christmas and
         performance bonus. For Mr. Fitzpatrick amount includes performance
         bonus. For Mr. Polanski, the bonus includes the second and last payment
         of a bonus established on his employment agreement signed at the time
         of the acquisition of Pioneer Bancorp, Inc.
(c)      Does not include the value of perquisites and other personal benefits
         because the aggregate amount of such benefits does not exceed the
         lesser of $50,000 or 10% of total amount of annual salary and bonus of
         any named individual. In the case of Mr. Fitzpatrick includes amounts 
         payable to compensate him for certain taxes payable by him with 
         respect to the bonus received in 1995 under his employment agreement.
(d)      For the Bank's SMC amount includes deferred portion awarded under the
         Profit Sharing Plan of the Bank, amounts accrued under the Benefit
         Restoration Plan, the amount from the Profit Sharing deferred and
         allocated to Stock Plan and Bank's matching contributions to Stock
         Plan, which are described on pages 18 through 20. For Messrs. Morrell,
         Novoa and Carey amount includes the employer matching contributions on
         tax-qualified plans under Section 1165(e) of Puerto Rico Internal
         Revenue Code of 1994. For Mr. McGrath, amount includes contribution to
         1165(e) plans, Profit Sharing Deferred portion into this plan and a
         deferred portion of the performance bonus. For Mr. Thomas J.
         Fitzpatrick, these amounts represent the contribution of Equity One,
         Inc. pursuant to Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code and
         deferred compensation under Supplementary Executive Retirement Plan.
         For Mr. Michael Polanski these amounts represent the contribution of
         Pioneer Bancorp, Inc. pursuant to Section 401(k) of the Internal
         Revenue Code and Profit Sharing Plan's deferred portion.
(e)      For the Plan Year ended December 31, 1996, the three year average
         ROE target was not achieved, nor the Peer Group three year average
         median ROE was exceeded.  However, since BanPonce's average ROE
         represented an improvement of 57.08% over the base year ROE compared
         to Peer's median ROE, the Human Resources and Compensation
         Committee approved a discretionary bonus of 25% of the total stock
         awarded at the beginning of the Plan Year, including dividends and
         adjusted for the stock split.  On March 12, 1997, 5,889 common shares
         were purchased in the open market at the price of $35.875 and 512
         additional common shares were acquired in March 13 at $36.  All 
         Executive Officers selected to defer the incentive payment, except 
         Mrs. Maria Isabel P. de Burckhart, Mr. Humberto Martin and Mr. Larry 
         B. Kesler.
(f)      Information presented for 1996, 1995 and 1994, except for Messrs.
         Churchill Carey and Kenneth McGrath, who were appointed President of
         Popular Mortgage, Inc. and BP Capital Markets, Inc., respectively,
         during 1995, for Mr. Demerjian, who was appointed President and CEO of
         CombanCorp during 1996, and for Messrs. Roberto R. Herencia and Carlos
         Rom Jr., who were appointed Executive Officers in 1997. No disclosure
         is required with respect to these officers.

LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN

         The Board of Directors approved in 1994 a three-year incentive plan to
encourage long-term corporate performance and objectives.

         A set percentage of base salary is used in determining the initial
amount of the Incentive Payment at the beginning of each Plan Year. On March
12, 1997, the Committee approved the fourth Plan Year and amended such plan by
increasing the percentage of base salary used in the calculation of the stock
average to 50%, from 25% as originally stated. The target used is based on
average ROE. The incentive payment shall be made in common stock of the
Corporation. All common stock to be awarded under this program will be purchased
in the open market.




                                       16
<PAGE>   18
         The amount of the shares payout is determined by multiplying the
participant's target shares by a factor determined based on his level of
attainment expressed as a percentage. This Long-Term Incentive Plan defines the
incentive payment as follows: 75% based on the attainment of a pre-established
three-year average ROE objective for the performance period and 25% based on the
achievement of an average ROE greater than the Peer Group's three-year average
median ROE.

         In 1996, 1995 and 1994 awards of performance shares under the Long-Term
Incentive Plan were established to the Executive Officers as set forth below:

                           LONG-TERM INCENTIVE AWARDS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                     ESTIMATED FUTURE PAYOUTS
                                                                   NON-STOCK-PRICE BASED PLANS
                                      NUMBER     PERFORMANCE           NUMBER OF SHARES(A)
                                        OF         PERIOD       ----------------------------------
         NAME            YEAR        SHARES(A)   UNTIL PAYOUT   THRESHOLD     TARGET       MAXIMUM
         ----            ----        ---------   ------------   ---------     ------       -------
<S>                      <C>         <C>       <C>                 <C>       <C>          <C>      
Richard L. Carrion ..... 1997        7,695.60  1/1/97-12/31/99     --        7,695.60     15,391.20
                         1996        6,317.28  1/1/96-12/31/98     --        6,317.28     12,634.56
                         1995        5,985.98  1/1/95-12/31/97     --        5,985.98     11,971.96
                         1994        5,630.98  1/1/94-12/31/96     --        5,630.98     11,261.96

Jorge A. Junquera ...... 1997        5,540.85  1/1/97-12/31/99     --        5,540.85     11,081.70
                         1996        3,790.37  1/1/96-12/31/98     --        3,790.37      7,580.74
                         1995        4,243.29  1/1/95-12/31/97     --        4,243.29      8,486.58
                         1994        3,695.96  1/1/94-12/31/96     --        3,695.96      7,391.92

David H. Chafey, Jr..... 1997        5,540.85  1/1/97-12/31/99     --        5,540.85     11,081.70
                         1996        3,790.37  1/1/96-12/31/98     --        3,790.37      7,580.74
                         1995        4,151.00  1/1/95-12/31/97     --        4,151.00      8,302.00
                         1994        3,615.58  1/1/94-12/31/96     --        3,615.58      7,231.16

Roberto R. Herencia..... 1997        3,170.60  1/1/97-12/31/99     --        3,170.60      6,341.20

Larry B. Kesler ........ 1997        3,707.52  1/1/97-12/31/99     --        3,707.52     7,415.04
                         1996        2,646.49  1/1/96-12/31/98     --        2,646.49     5,292.98
                         1995        3,379.65  1/1/95-12/31/97     --        3,379.65     6,759.30
                         1994        2,943.72  1/1/94-12/31/96     --        2,943.72     5,887.44

Maria Isabel P. ........ 1997        3,497.58  1/1/97-12/31/99     --        3,497.58     6,995.16
 de Burckhart            1996        2,563.50  1/1/96-12/31/98     --        2,563.50     5,127.00
                         1995        3,304.84  1/1/95-12/31/97     --        3,304.84     6,609.68
                         1994        2,878.56  1/1/94-12/31/96     --        2,878.56     5,757.12

Humberto Martin ........ 1997        3,555.38  1/1/97-12/31/99     --        3,555.38     7,110.76
                         1996        2,537.92  1/1/96-12/31/98     --        2,537.92     5,075.84
                         1995        3,180.96  1/1/95-12/31/97     --        3,180.96     6,361.92
                         1994        2,770.66  1/1/94-12/31/96     --        2,770.66     5,541.32

Emilio E. Pinero ....... 1997        3,215.00  1/1/97-12/31/99     --        3,215.00     6,430.00
                         1996        2,399.23  1/1/96-12/31/98     --        2,399.23     4,798.46
                         1995        3,122.82  1/1/95-12/31/97     --        3,122.82     6,245.64
                         1994        2,720.02  1/1/94-12/31/96     --        2,720.02     5,440.04

Carlos Rom, Jr. ........ 1997        2,924.34  1/1/97-12/31/99     --        2,924.34     5,848.68
</TABLE>

         (a) the number of shares for 1996, 1995 and 1994 were adjusted to 
reflect a stock split of one share for each share outstanding effected in a form
of a dividend, on July 1, 1996.



                                       17
<PAGE>   19
         The share awards shown above are payable at the end of each three-year
performance period if objectives are attained. Dividends that would be payable
on the shares of stock, if they were held by the Executive Officers, will be
credited and become part of the Incentive Payment. At the option of the
participant, a portion equal to the estimated tax due with respect to the
incentive payments of the awards may be paid in cash.

         If the Corporation's target is met or exceeded, the share payments
corresponding to the Corporation's and Peer Group's goals are increased
separately by a leverage factor that cannot exceed two times the target share
amounts.

         Even if the ROE for the Corporation does not equal or exceed the Peer
three-year average median ROE, the Human Resources and Compensation Committee,
at its own discretion, may recommend the distribution of 25% of the targeted
bonus if the results attained for the Plan Year average represent an improvement
of no less than 25% over the base year.

         For the Plan Year ended December 31, 1996, the three year average ROE
target was not achieved, nor the Peer Group three year average median ROE was
exceeded.  However, since BanPonce's average ROE represented an improvement of
57.08% over the base year ROE compared to Peer's median ROE, the Human
Resources and Compensation Committee approved a discretionary bonus of 25% of
the total stock awarded at the beginning of the Plan Year, including dividends
and adjusted for the stock split.  On March 12, 1997, 5,889 common shares were
purchased in the open market at the price of $35.875 and 512 additional common
shares were acquired in March 13 at $36.  All Executive Officers selected to 
defer the incentive payment, except Mrs. Maria Isabel P. de Burckhart, Mr.
Humberto Martin and Mr. Larry Kesler. This alternative is an amendment to the
original Plan that was approved by the Board of Directors in December 1996. 

OTHER INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLANS

         The Bank has an Annual Management Incentive Plan for different
management levels. Under this Plan, incentive bonuses are based on individual
performance as well as the Corporation or Bank's performance, measured by net
income and ROE. The weight assigned to the Corporation or the Bank's performance
objectives varies according to management level, but the weight of individual
performance applies equally to all managers participating.

         The Bank also has an Excellence in Performance Program in which all
employees participate. This program rewards employees for extraordinary personal
contributions that are non-recurring in nature, typically not recognizable
through merit or promotional salary action, and clearly recognized as such by
management and peers alike.

         Additionally, the Bank has several functional incentive programs that
reward employee productivity in specific areas.

PROFIT SHARING PLAN OF THE BANK

         All officers and regular monthly salaried employees of the Bank as of
January 1, 1976, or hired after that date, are active participants in the Bank's
Profit Sharing Plan, as of the first day of the calendar month following
completion of one year of service.

         Under this plan the Bank's annual contribution is determined by the
Board of Directors based on the profits of the Bank for the year. The amount
allocated to each officer or employee is based on his or her earned salary for
the year. The total amount contributed for the year 1996 was $23,495,571, of
which 50% was contributed to the Deferred Compensation Plan, 10% to the Stock
Plan and the remainder was paid in cash.

BENEFIT RESTORATION PLAN OF THE BANK

         Effective January 1, 1994, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) set a
limit of $150,000 as the amount of compensation that may be considered in
calculating future retirement payments from qualified pension plans. This
tax law applies to the Bank's Retirement, Profit Sharing and Stock Plan.

         The Board of Directors has approved a "Benefit Restoration Plan" for
those officers whose annual compensation is higher than the established limit.
This non-qualified plan will provide those benefits that cannot be accrued under
the 



                                       18
<PAGE>   20
Bank's Retirement and Profit Sharing Plan, which are qualified plans.
Benefits under the Benefit Restoration Plan shall be equal to the account
balance that would be provided under the Profit Sharing Plan and equal to the
benefits that would have been accrued under the Retirement Plan. The Plan is
unfunded.

RETIREMENT PLAN OF THE BANK

         The Bank has a non-contributory, defined benefit Retirement Plan
covering substantially all regular monthly employees. Monthly salaried employees
are eligible to participate in the Plan following the completion of one year of
service and 21 years of age. Pension costs are funded in accordance with the
minimum funding standards under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act
("ERISA").

         The basis for the Retirement Plan formula is Total Compensation, which
includes, Christmas Bonus, incentives, overtime, differentials, Profit Sharing
cash bonuses and any other compensation received by the employees. Benefits are
paid on the basis of a straight life annuity plus supplemental death benefits
and are not reduced for Social Security or other payments received by
participants.

         Normal retirement age at the Bank is a combination of years of age and
completed years of service totalling 75. Meanwhile, early retirement is at 55
years of age with 10 years of service. Employees with 30 years of service or
more are provided with a retirement benefit of 40% of Total Compensation.
Benefits are reduced only if the employee retires before age 55. Benefits are
subject to the U.S. Internal Revenue Code limits on compensation and benefits.

         The following table sets forth the estimated annual benefits that would
become payable under the Retirement Plan and the Benefit Restoration Plan based
upon certain assumptions as to total compensation levels and years of service.
The amounts payable in this table are not necessarily representative of amounts
that may actually become payable under the plans. The amounts represent the
benefits upon retirement on December 31, 1996, of a participant at age 65.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
            TOTAL
         COMPENSATION           ESTIMATED ANNUAL BENEFITS / YEARS OF SERVICE
        ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           15           20           25           30           35
                           --           --           --           --           --
         <S>            <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
         $1,000,000     $183,000     $256,000     $328,000     $400,000     $400,000
            900,000      165,000      230,000      295,000      360,000      360,000
            800,000      146,000      204,000      262,000      320,000      320,000
            700,000      128,000      179,000      230,000      280,000      280,000
            600,000      110,000      153,000      197,000      240,000      240,000
            500,000       92,000      128,000      164,000      200,000      200,000
            400,000       73,000      102,000      131,000      160,000      160,000
            300,000       55,000       77,000       98,000      120,000      120,000
</TABLE>

         The 1996 total compensation and estimated years of service at age 65
for the five highest paid key policy-making Executive Officers are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              1996      ESTIMATED YEARS
                                              TOTAL      OF SERVICE AT
                                          COMPENSATION      AGE 65
                                          ------------      ------
<S>                                         <C>             <C> 
Richard L. Carrion ...................      $987,000        41.5
Jorge A. Junquera ....................       604,000        42.3
David H. Chafey, Jr ..................       602,000        38.5
Larry B. Kesler ......................       430,000        16.5
Maria Isabel P. de Burckhart .........       417,000        35.3
</TABLE>

STOCK PLAN OF THE BANK

         The Bank has adopted two Stock Plans, one covering employees of the
Bank in Puerto Rico and another covering employees of the Bank in the U.S., and
the British and U.S. Virgin Islands. All regular monthly salaried employees are
eligible to participate in the Stock Plans following the completion of
three-months of service.




                                       19
<PAGE>   21
         The Bank may contribute a discretionary amount based on the profits of
the Bank for the year, which is allocated to each officer or employee based on
his or her basic salary for the year, as determined by the Board of Directors.
The Stock Plans also allow employees to voluntarily elect to defer a
predetermined percentage not to exceed 10% of their pre-tax base compensation
(after tax in the British Virgin Islands) up to a maximum amount as determined
by the applicable tax laws. The Bank will match 50% of the amount contributed by
a participant up to a maximum of 2% of the participant's annual base salary.

         All contributions to the Stock Plans are invested in shares of common
stock of the Corporation, which are purchased in the open market.

                             BANPONCE CORPORATION
                              PERFORMANCE GRAPH

         The following Performance Graph compares the cumulative total
shareholder return during the measurement period with the cumulative total
return, assuming reinvestment of dividends, of the S & P 500 Index and the S & P
Bank Composite Index. The cumulative total shareholder return was obtained by
dividing (i) the cumulative amount of dividends per share, assuming dividend
reinvestment, since the measurement date, December 31, 1991 plus (ii) the change
in the per share price since the measurement date, by the share price at the
measurement date.

                COMPARISON OF FIVE YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
                         TOTAL RETURN AS OF DECEMBER 31
                           (DECEMBER 31, 1991 = 100)

                                    [GRAPH]




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                         INDEXED RETURNS
                              Base                        Years Ending
                             Period
Company/Index                 Dec91      Dec92      Dec93     Dec94      Dec95      Dec96
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                           <C>        <C>        <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
BANPONCE CORP.                100        161.95     171.15    160.36     228.06     407.92
BANKS COMPOSITE               100        131.87     145.37    137.92     219.78     311.09
S&P 500 INDEX                 100        107.62     118.46    120.03     165.13     203.05
</TABLE>


                         INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

         The Board of Directors intends to retain the services of Price
Waterhouse as the independent auditors of the Corporation for the year 1997.
This international firm of public accountants has served as independent auditors
of the Bank since 1971 and of the Corporation since May 1991, when it was
appointed by the Board of Directors.

         Representatives of Price Waterhouse will attend the Stockholders
Meeting and will be available to answer any questions that may arise; they will
also have the opportunity to make a statement if they so desire.



                                      20
<PAGE>   22

                       RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
                   PROPOSAL 2: AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE FIRST OF
                       RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

         The Board of Directors recommends the amendment of Article First of the
Corporation's Restated Articles of Incorporation in the manner shown in Annex I
hereto. The proposed amendment to Article First would change the name of the
Corporation from BanPonce Corporation to Popular, Inc.

         The Board of Directors believes that the change of the Corporation's
name is necessary to provide a cohesive identity throughout the organization in
light of the geographic and business diversification strategies being currently
pursued. The proposed name would capitalize on the strength and tradition of the
Corporation's principal subsidiary Banco Popular, Puerto Rico's premier banking
institution. At the same time, it recognizes that the Corporation is a diverse,
multifaceted organization encompassing a broad range of financial services
including: mortgage banking, lease financing, consumer finance, investment
banking, and processing services operating in various geographic markets.

         The resolution attached to this Proxy Statement as Annex I will be
submitted for adoption at the Annual Meeting. The affirmative vote of two thirds
(2/3) of the outstanding shares of the Corporation's Common Stock, par value
$6, is necessary for the adoption of the amendment to Article First. Proxies
will be voted in favor of the resolutions unless otherwise instructed by the
stockholders. Abstentions and shares not voted by brokers and other entities
holding shares on behalf of the beneficial owners will have the same effect as
votes cast against the Amendment. The Board has declared the desirability of
its adoption and recommends a vote FOR the resolution.

                       RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
                   PROPOSAL 3: AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE FIFTH OF
                      RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

         The Board of Directors recommends the amendment of Article Fifth of the
Corporation's Restated Articles of Incorporation in the manner shown in Annex II
hereto. The proposed Amendment to Article Fifth would change the number of
authorized shares of the Corporation's Common Stock, par value $6, from ninety
million (90,000,000) to one hundred and eighty million (180,000,000) shares. 
These changes would be effective upon the date of filing the Amendment to the 
Restated Articles with the Department of State in the Commonwealth of Puerto 
Rico.

         The Board of Directors believes that it is in the best interest of the
Corporation and its stockholders that the Corporation has sufficient number of
authorized but unissued common shares available for possible use in future
acquisition and expansion opportunities that may arise, for general corporate
needs such as future stock dividends or stock splits, and for other proper
purposes within the limitations of the law, as determined by the Board of
Directors. The Corporation has no current plans to use its authorized but
unissued shares of Common Stock, par value $6, for any particular purpose,
except for issuance of shares pursuant to the acquisiition of Roig Commercial
Bank in Puerto Rico and National Bancorp, Inc., the parent company, of American
Midwest in Illinois.  The Corporation currently has sufficient common stock to
issue for the acquisition of both of these entities without the approval of the
proposed amendment to increase its outstanding shares of common stock. Such
shares would be available for issuance without further action by the
shareholders, except as otherwise limited by applicable law. 

         If additional shares of Common Stock are issued by the Corporation, it
may potentially have an anti-takeover effect by making it more difficult to
obtain shareholders' approval of various actions, such as a merger. Also, the
issuance of additional shares of Common Stock may have a dilutive effect on
earnings per share and equity, and may have a dilutive effect on the voting
power of existing shareholders if the preferential rights provided in Article
Sixth are not applicable. The terms of any Common Stock issuance will be
determined by the Corporation's Board of Directors, will depend upon the reason
for the issuance and largely on market conditions and other factors existing at
the time. The increase in authorized shares of Common Stock has not been
proposed in connection with any anti-takeover related purpose and the Board of
Directors and management have no knowledge of any current efforts by anyone to
obtain control of the Corporation or to effect large accumulations of the
Corporation's Common Stock.



                                       21
<PAGE>   23

         The resolution attached to this proxy as Annex II will be submitted for
adoption at the Annual Stockholders meeting. The affirmative vote of a majority
of the holders of shares of Common Stock, par value $6, of the Corporation is
necessary to adopt the proposed amendment in accordance with the terms of
Article Fifth of the Restated Articles of Incorporation. Proxies will be voted
for the resolutions unless otherwise instructed by the stockholders.
Abstentions and shares not voted by brokers and other entities holding shares
on behalf of beneficial owners will have the same effect as votes cast against
the proposed Amendment. The Board of Directors has declared the desirability of
the adoption of this amendment and recommends a vote FOR the resolution.

                          INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

         The Form 10K, audited financial statements, certain supplemental 
financial information and Management Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations included in the Corporation's Annual 
Report to Stockholders for the year ended December 31, 1996, which accompany
this Proxy Statement and is hereby incorporated by reference herein. In 
addition, all  documents filed by the Corporation pursuant to Section 13(a) of
the Securities  Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the date of this Proxy
Statement and prior  to the Annual Meeting shall be deemed to be incorporated
by reference herein.

           PROPOSALS OF SECURITY HOLDERS TO BE PRESENTED AT THE 1998
                         ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

         Stockholders' proposals intended to be presented at the 1998 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders must be received by the Corporate Secretary, at its
principal executive offices, Popular Center Building, San Juan, Puerto Rico,
00918, not later than November 25, 1997 for inclusion in the Corporation's Proxy
Statement and Form of Proxy relating to the 1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

                                 OTHER MATTERS

         Management does not know of any other matters to be brought before the
Meeting other than those described previously. Proxies in the accompanying form
will confer discretionary authority to Management with respect to any such other
matters presented at the meeting.

         To avoid delays in ballot taking and counting, and in order to assure
that your Proxy is voted in accordance with your wishes, compliance with the
following instructions is respectfully requested: upon signing a Proxy as
attorney, executor, administrator, trustee, guardian, authorized officer of a
corporation, or on behalf of a minor, please give full title. If shares are in
the name of more than one recordholder, all should sign.

         Whether or not you plan to attend the Meeting, it is very important
that your shares be represented and voted in the Meeting. Accordingly, you are
urged to properly complete, sign, date and return your Proxy Card.

         San Juan, Puerto Rico, March 20, 1997



              RICHARD L. CARRION                      SAMUEL T. CESPEDES
      Chairman of the Board, President                     Secretary
         and Chief Executive Officer



                                       22
<PAGE>   24

                                                                         ANNEX I

                      PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE FIRST
                     OF RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

         RESOLVED, that Article First of the Restated Articles of Incorporation
of BanPonce Corporation be, and it hereby is, amended in its entirety to read as
follows:

         "FIRST:  The name of the Corporation is Popular, Inc."

         RESOLVED, FURTHER, that the proper officers of the Corporation be, and
hereby are, authorized and directed to take all actions, execute all
instruments, and make all payments that are necessary or desirable, at their
discretion, to make effective the foregoing amendment to the Restated Articles
of Incorporation of the Corporation, including without limitation, filing a
certificate of such amendment with the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico.

                                                                        ANNEX II

                      PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE FIFTH
                     OF RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

         RESOLVED, that Article Fifth of the Restated Articles of Incorporation
of the Corporation be, and it hereby is, amended in its entirety to read as
follows:

         "FIFTH: The minimum amount of capital with which the Corporation shall
commence business shall be $1,000.

         The total number of shares of all classes of capital stock that the
Corporation shall have authority to issue, upon resolutions approved by the
Board of Directors from time to time, is one hundred ninety million shares
(190,000,000), of which one hundred eighty million shares (180,000,000) shall be
shares of Common Stock of the par value of $6, per shares (hereinafter called
"Common Stock"), and ten million (10,000,000) shall be shares of Preferred
Stock without par value (hereinafter called "Preferred Stock").

         The amount of the authorized capital stock of any class or classes of
stock may be increased or decreased by the affirmative vote of the holders of a
majority of the stock of the Corporation entitled to vote.

         The designations and the powers, preferences and rights, and the
qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, of the Preferred Stock
shall be as follows:

                  (1)      The Board of Directors is expressly authorized at 
any time, and from time to time, to provide for the issuance of shares of
Preferred Stock in one or more series, and with such voting powers, full or
limited but not to exceed one vote per share, or without voting powers, and with
such designations, preferences, and relative participating, optional or other
special rights, and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, as
shall be expressed in the resolution or resolutions providing for the issue
thereof adopted by the Board of Directors and as are not otherwise expressed in
this Certificate of Incorporation or any amendment thereto, including (but
without limiting the generality of the foregoing) the following:

                           (a) the designation of such series;

                           (b) the purchase price that the Corporation shall
receive for each share of such series;

                           (c) the dividend rate of such series, the conditions
and dates upon which such dividends shall be payable, the preference or relation
that such dividends shall bear to the dividends payable on any other class or
classes or on any other series of any class or classes of capital stock of the
Corporation, and whether such dividends shall be cumulative or non-cumulative;



                                       23
<PAGE>   25

                           (d) whether the shares of such series shall be 
subject to redemption by the Corporation, and, if made subject to such
redemption, the times, prices and other terms and conditions of such redemption;

                           (e) the terms and amounts of any sinking fund 
provided for the purchase or redemption of the shares of such series;

                           (f) whether the shares of such series shall be 
convertible into or exchangeable for shares of any other class of classes or of
any other series of any class or classes of capital stock of the Corporation,
and, if provision be made for conversion or exchange, the times, prices, rates,
adjustments and other terms and conditions of such conversion or exchange;

                           (g) the extent, if any, to which the holders of the
shares of such series shall be entitled to vote as a class or otherwise with
respect to the election of directors or otherwise;

                           (h) the restrictions and conditions, if any, upon the
reissue of any additional Preferred Stock ranking on a parity with or prior to
such shares as to dividends or upon dissolution;

                           (i) the rights of the holders of the shares of such
series upon the dissolution of, or upon the distribution of assets of, the
Corporation, which rights may be different in the case of a voluntary
dissolution than in the case of an involuntary dissolution.

         (2) Except as otherwise required by law and except for such voting 
powers with respect to the election of directors or other matters as may be
stated in the resolutions of the Board of Directors creating any series of
Preferred Stock, the holders of any such series shall have no voting power
whatsoever.

         RESOLVED FURTHER, that the proper officers of the Corporation be, and
hereby are, authorized and directed to take all actions, execute all
instruments, and make all payments that are necessary or desirable, at their
discretion, to make effective the foregoing amendment to the Restated Articles
of Incorporation of the Corporation, including without limitation on filing a
certificate of such amendment with the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico."


                                      24
<PAGE>   26
                                                                       APPENDIX

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
             PROXY                                  THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
<S>                                     <C>
  [BANPONCE CORPORATION LOGO]           The undersigned hereby appoints Richard L. Carrion, Jorge A. Junquera and David 
                                        H. Chafey Jr. as Proxies, each with the power to appoint his substitute, and    
        P.O. Box 362708                 authorizes them to represent and to vote as designated below all the shares of  
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-2708        common stock of BanPonce Corporation held on record by the undersigned on March 
                                        7, 1997, at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held at the Centro Europa  
                                        Building, 3rd Floor, San Juan, Puerto Rico, on April 25, 1997, at 10:00 a.m. or 
                                        at any adjournments thereof, as follows:                                        
                                        

1. ELECTION OF DIRECTORS - Nominees:

         SALUSTIANO ALVAREZ MENDEZ                    ALFONSO F. BALLESTER                         JORGE A. JUNQUERA
         [ ] VOTE GRANTED FOR all nominees            [ ] VOTE WITHHELD FOR all nominees

         [ ] VOTE GRANTED, except for the following nominee(s) (insert in the space provided below the names of those nominees 
             for whom you do not wish to vote)

2. TO AMEND ARTICLE FIRST of the Restated Articles of Incorporation to change the name of BanPonce Corporation to Popular, Inc.

         [ ] FOR                    [ ] AGAINST                [ ] ABSTAIN                [ ] VOTE WITHHELD

   
3. TO AMEND ARTICLE FIFTH of the Restated Articles of Incorporation to increase the authorized number of shares of common 
   stock, par value $6, from 90,000,000 to 180,000,000. 
    

         [ ] FOR                    [ ] AGAINST                [ ] ABSTAIN                [ ] VOTE WITHHELD

4. AT THEIR DISCRETION, the Proxies are authorized to vote upon such other business as may properly come before the Meeting. 
   THIS PROXY, WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED, WILL BE VOTED IN THE MANNER DIRECTED HEREIN BY THE UNDERSIGNED STOCKHOLDER. IF NO DIRECTION
   IS MADE, THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED "FOR" ITEM 1, 2 and 3. Please refer to instructions below.


                                                                                         -----------------------------------------
                                                                                         Signature

                                                                                         -----------------------------------------
                                                                                         Signature

                                                                                                               -------------------
                                                                                                                      DATE

                                                                                                (VEA AL DORSO TEXTO EN ESPANOL)

                           PLEASE SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THIS PROXY CARD PROMPTLY USING THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.
                      No Postage is required if mailed in the United States, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                        -   FOLD AND DETACH HERE  -


                                        INSTRUCTIONS:                                                                   
- -------------------------------                                                                                         
                                        Please sign exactly as your name appears above. When shares are held by joint   
         ANNUAL MEETING                 tenants or by tenants in common, each holder should sign. When signing as       
               OF                       attorney, executor, administrator, trustee or guardian, please give full title  
                                        as such. If a corporation, the president or other authorized officer should sign
  [BANPONCE CORPORATION LOGO]           under the full corporate name and the position of such authorized officer should
                                        appear below the signature. If a partnership, please sign in partnership name by
- -------------------------------         authorized person.                                                              
                                        

    Friday, April 25, 1997                                           [ROAD MAP]
          10:00 a.m.
    Centro Europa Building
    San Juan, Puerto Rico
</TABLE>





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