21.   Banking issues were also lower.

22.   Banking regulators are no more powerful against economic tides than are shorefront property owners glumly regarding waves eroding their beachfront.

23.   Banking analysts are pleased.

24.   Banking company stocks were generally higher, following the announcement that Midlantic Bank agreed to be acquired by PNC Bank.

25.   Banking executives have been very critical of these tactics.

26.   Banking is not as concentrated yet, but it is getting ever closer.

27.   Banking is one example.

28.   Banking stocks were mostly higher, led by Malayan Banking Bhd., the largest bank in Malaysia.

29.   Banking analysts were skeptical that much of the money will ever be recovered.

30.   Banking company issues were up, though, with analysts noting indications that their spreads may widen with lower yields.