41.   Most analysts said the bank needs to find a brokerage big enough to serve its expanding branch network.

42.   On the other hand, there are not as many easy areas for cutting costs, because the two banks do not have extensive overlapping branch networks.

43.   Other banks with more extensive branch networks and less flashy exteriors, such as the state-owned Banco do Brasil, have a more plebeian reputation.

44.   Other big banks such as NationsBank Corp., BankAmerica Corp. and First Union Corp. also are expected to review their branch networks.

45.   Smaller banks with extensive branch networks in the rich northern regions of the country have also been talking to each other about creating alliances.

46.   Staying on the sidelines amid the rash of bank consolidation, KeyCorp reduced the size of its branch network in favor of higher-margin corporate and consumer businesses.

47.   That would give it the largest branch network of any U.S. bank in a foreign country.

48.   The bank increased spending in several areas as it expanded into capital markets and into consumer banking in Latin America and promoted its New England branch network.

49.   The combined branch network of both banks would be spun off as a separate company.

50.   The companies have complementary branch networks, and, as a result, no offices are expected to be closed.