Redemption for cash Preferred Shares Series 12

National Bank of Canada announced today that it will redeem, for the purpose of cancellation, all of its Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series 12 (TSE:  NA.PR.I) on Thursday, May 15, 2003, for $25.00 per share, together with declared and unpaid dividends per share to the redemption date. The Bank will pay the dividend to the registered holders of the First Preferred Shares Series 12 as of April 11, 2003. This funding, provided solely from the Bank's general funds, is part of the Bank's capital management. The notice of redemption with the letter of transmittal will be promptly sent to the holders of First Preferred Shares Series 12.

About the National Bank of Canada

National Bank of Canada is an integrated group which provides comprehensive financial services to consumers, small and medium-sized enterprises and large corporations in its core market, while offering specialized services to its customers elsewhere in the world. The National Bank offers a full array of banking services, including corporate and investment banking. It is an active player on international capital markets and, through its subsidiaries, is involved in securities brokerage, insurance and wealth management, as well as mutual fund and retirement plan management. The National Bank has approximately $75 billion in assets and, together with its subsidiaries, employs over 17,000 people. The Bank's securities are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (NA: TSX). For more information, visit the Bank's website at www.nbc.ca.

Information (the telephone number and e-mail address provided below are for the exclusive use of journalists and other media representatives):

Denis Dubé
Manager, Public Relations Department
National Bank of Canada
Tel.: (514) 394-8644
E-mail: denis.dube@bnc.ca