Abstracts » Business

Don't bank on a bid

Article Abstract:

There has been bid speculation relating to NatWest Bank following the failure of a merger approach to Abbey National. Despite speculation, no bank large enough to acquire NatWest is likely to be interested or would be permitted. Halifax and Lloyds TSB are not interested in NatWest's investment and commercial banking operations, while HSBC has its sights on other markets and a merger with Barclays would hit competition problems. Prudential is the largest UK insurer, but would probably seek a bank with a greater emphasis on retail operations.

National Westminster Bank PLC (London, England)

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Interest maintained

Article Abstract:

CS Holding has suggested a merger with Union Bank of Switzerland (UBS) which has been rejected by the UBS management. CS Holding's chairman, Rainer Gut, has criticised UBS over leaked documents, and argues that the trend is toward large banks, and the Swiss financial services sector is still undergoing restructuring. CS has also set up an alliance with Winterthur insurance in the field of occupational pensions and expects synergies from this link.

Union Bank of Switzerland, CS Holding S.A.

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