51.   The case prompted AIB to hire Eugene Ludwig, a former U.S. Treasury Department banking regulator, to investigate the bank.

52.   The merger would still have to obtain approval of both New York state and federal banking regulators.

53.   The power, given to trusted key traders, has been criticized by U.S. banking regulators as a potential vehicle for fraud.

54.   The revelation prompted AIB to hire Eugene Ludwig, a former U.S. Treasury Department banking regulator, to investigate the bank.

55.   The hearings will focus on communications between White House officials and banking regulators investigating the affair, which some charge were inappropriate and suggested an attempt at a coverup.