1.   A merger could pay off because the two thrifts could slash costs by closing overlapping branches and firing employees.

2.   Ahmanson executive claim Washington Mutual would have trouble delivering on those promises since there are far fewer overlapping branches and other operations to eliminate to reduce expenses.

3.   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.

4.   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.

5.   Payne thrives on cutting such costs as overlapping branches, back-offices and redundant employees as quickly as possible.

6.   Some of the biggest banks bought regional rivals to reduce expenses by firing employees and closing overlapping branches.

7.   The industry is consolidating as banks buy rivals to expand geographically, and cut costs by closing overlapping branches.

8.   The industry is consolidating as banks buy rivals to expand geographically and cut costs by closing overlapping branches.

9.   The two banks are likely to close or relocate overlapping branches in those markets, Fleet spokesman James Mahoney said Tuesday.

10.   This is one of the few states where the two are overlapping branches that could lead to antitrust questions.