1.   Among the changes, the regulators eliminated a requirement that banks secure approval for investing in securities or making loans outside Chile.

2.   Among the changes, the central bank eliminated a requirement that banks secure approval for investing in securities or making loans outside Chile.

3.   Still, banks have secured key victories in federal courts and through new regulatory agencies that have expanded their powers.

4.   The agents changed their position after U.S. banks secured a series of victories in the courts and through new regulations last year.

5.   By opting to absorb the finance company, the bank has secured what appears to be a concession to relocate some of its branches, one analyst said.

6.   He said, however, the bank has secured the commitment of some big depositors, such as the Catholic Church, to keep their money with the bank.