31.   The transaction is expected to result in some branch closings, and the consolidation of computer and administrative units.

32.   Unclear at this time is the number of branch closings and layoffs that will result as Washington Mutual digests its two California acquisitions.

33.   While industry executives say the deals are creating stronger institutions, the short-term effect will be more corporate name changes, branch closings and job losses.

34.   A continuation of bank mergers will also drive branch closings, as banks combine and shut overlapping offices, Woosley said.

35.   But opponents say they fees are unjustifiable at a time of soaring bank profits, teller layoffs and branch closings.

36.   Citigroup officials have said the combination could result in some branch closings because of overlap.

37.   Essentially, market overlap mergers, you know, lot of branch office closings here, substantial cost takeouts expected.

38.   First Union chief financial officer Robert Kelly revealed the number of branch closings earlier this week during a presentation to analysts hosted by Morgan Stanley Dean Witter.

39.   They also said they foresaw no job cuts or branch closings.