1.   Skeptical analysts noted the merger would need to pass muster with the Justice Department, the Federal Communications Commission, the Commerce Department and regulators in California.

2.   The BofA bank merger still needs to be approved by shareholders and federal regulators.

3.   The Digital Equipment experience left Capellas with the belief that what computer mergers need most are speed and clarity.

4.   The Lilco-Brooklyn Union merger also needs approval from state regulators and from shareholders of both companies.

5.   The merger also needs approval from Missouri and federal regulators.

6.   The merger needs approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Securities and Exchange Commission, Nuclear Regulatory Commission and some state regulators.

7.   The merger still needs approval from gambling regulators in Kentucky, Illinois and Louisiana.

8.   The merger still needs approval from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Insurance.

9.   The merger needs federal regulatory approval, but executives continue to predict they will complete the deal this fall.

10.   The merger still needs antitrust approval from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.