British banks spurn global trend towards marriage

Article Abstract:

UK banks are going against the international trend by not entering into merger deals. Experts believe that this is because UK banks are already more consolidated than their counterparts in the US or continental Europe. Furthermore, large cost-saving mergers between clearing banks would encounter serious monopoly issues. None of the leading banks is willing to risk unpopularity by testing whether the government would prevent a merger on the basis of market share.

Acquisitions & mergers

---

Banking profits to be at heart of inquiry

Article Abstract:

The UK government's inquiry into the banking sector, led by former telecommunications regulator Don Cruickshank, will focus on the very high levels of profitability in the sector. It will look at money transmission, lending, particularly to small and medium-sized businesses, and the credit card merchant acquiring services. Cruickshank is also looking to investigate wider issues, including the impact of the single European currency and the impact of tax breaks.

Government regulation (cont), Investigations

---

RBS heads the queue to trump Bank of Scotland's surprise 22bn pounds sterling bid for NatWest

Article Abstract:

Royal Bank of Scotland is considering entering into competition with Bank of Scotland to take over National Westminster Bank (NatWest). Bank of Scotland's hostile 22 billion pounds sterling bid for NatWest has led to a significant rise in bank share prices, and there is speculation that other deals could take place in the banking sector. NatWest has rejected Bank of Scotland's offer, and is now to review its bid for Legal & General.

Planning, National Westminster Bank PLC (London, England), Royal Bank of Scotland PLC

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Home-buyers heed global warning. That's 125,000 pounds sterling a bedroom.... Brown fields, green housing
• Abstracts: Man with a golden touch who holds the key to Tory finance. The shadows that linger over Tories' paymaster. Spot of bother on the home front for 'Mrs Brassy.'
• Abstracts: Midshires chief may stand down War declared with withering attack on NatWest. Bank of Ireland set to top Halifax's Midshires offer
• Abstracts: Buzzing along the Internet highway. US buyer scoops Abbott for 346m pounds sterling
• Abstracts: Back to the safety of home after the ordeal that every parent dreads. Patients looked like extras in an old war film

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.