31.   Its rivals include some of the biggest banks in the U.S., all of which seek to build branch networks that span several states.

32.   It would give the new bank strong positions in asset management, securities processing and mutual funds, and would expand their respective branch networks.

33.   Kaneko said on Monday that Nikko would be expanding its branch network, building small offices in many places.

34.   Last month, Vidigal held talks with Citigroup, which has expressed interest in expanding its branch network.

35.   Local banks need additional heft as they upgrade their computer technology and widen their branch networks, bankers said.

36.   Lyonnais has sought out as a future core shareholder Credit Agricole, which has the largest branch network of any French bank.

37.   London-based Standard Chartered includes a branch network in Hong Kong and a presence in all other Asian countries except North Korea.

38.   Medium-sized banks that have attractive branch networks in growing markets are especially popular takeover targets.

39.   Moreover, such a partnership would give IMI a retail branch network through which to sell securities.

40.   Most of the job cuts will be in California where Wells Fargo and Los Angeles-based First Interstate have overlapping branch networks and back office operations.