ALSO NOTED: First Republic to sell unit; Ex-Putnam employees settle with SEC; and much more...

Company News:
> Bear Stearns to open Saudi venture. Article
> First Republic to sell unit. Article
> RBS boosted by corporate lending. Article
> Jefferies to sell senior debt. Article

Regulatory News:
> Bank of America to undergo regular review of CRA. Article
> Ex-Putnam employees settle with SEC. Article

And Finally... Why gas prices will remain high. Article