11.   Chase is relying on a consultant whose specialty is recommending that banks cut costs by cutting workers.

12.   Economists, traders and investors have little doubt the bank will cut rates.

13.   Fifth Third has been an active player in the past week in the consolidation that has allowed banks to cut costs and increase profitability.

14.   Foreign banks are already cutting credit lines to Korean banks and investment banks on concern they could default.

15.   Foreign banks are also cutting credit lines to Korean banks and merchant banks on concern they could default, accelerating the shortage of foreign currency.

16.   Foreign banks have cut rates and terms so much that companies in some countries can borrow cheaper from banks than they could by selling bonds.

17.   He also said the bank would cut costs by disposing of physical assets and reducing fringe benefits and entertainment costs.

18.   In fact, major banks cut their benchmark prime rate Wednesday.

19.   It has tumbled more than half a cent since Thursday on concern the bank will cut target lending rates to stimulate job growth.

20.   It will also dry up profit margins as banks cut fees to retain customers.