1.   Analysts said combining U.S. refining and marketing assets would be good for both companies.

2.   Dataquest analyst Xavier Pucel says combining the GPS systems with other technologies to create an all-in-one, in-car device will increase demand.

3.   Given the slim operating profit margins in the industry, analysts said combining the two companies made a great deal of sense.

4.   Many officials said combining city and county government services may be the only way to meet the change spurred by federal budget balancing.