SCH paves way for European bank mergers

Santander Central Hispano's (BSCH) proposed takeover of Abbey National could trigger a clutch of mergers and acquisitions across Europe in the banking sector. Analysts say half a dozen of the bigger institutions are likely to be involved in catch-up deals over the coming months.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/3925489.stm http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/3925489.stm

http://www.abbeynational.com/press_release_banco_santander.pdf http://www.abbeynational.com/press_release_banco_santander.pdf

---