1.   Banks are in the midst of a record year for consolidation, as companies buy their rivals to slash costs and boost earnings.

2.   By buying rivals, they hope to minimize the risk of wild earnings swings from new toys that fizzle fast or classics that lose their luster.

3.   Conseco is one of several insurers buying rivals to boost revenue and rein in costs.

4.   Fleet is buying its rival.

5.   Four Media, which has been aggressively buying smaller rivals, said the funds will allow it to continue expansion through further acquisitions.

6.   In company news, consumer products wholesaler Grupo Casa Autrey SA won approval from Mexican authorities to buy a rival, Drogueros SA.

7.   In February, Union Bancaire Privee of Geneva said it would buy a rival, Discount Bank and Trust, and combine client lists.

8.   In Silicon Valley, where mergers and acquisitions constantly reshape the landscape, many firms exclude charges incurred when buying rivals.

9.   It is now routine for banks to buy their rivals, then fire employees and sell off unprofitable branches, all to boost profits for their demanding shareholders.

10.   Its biggest San Francisco rivals already were bought by banks.