More deal chatter surfaces

Washington Mutual just can't seem to shake speculation about a buyout. The latest news is that a report by CreditSights examined some potential acquirers of WaMu and determined that JPMorgan would be the best strategic fit resulting in the least dilution. Deals with Citigroup and Wells Fargo & Co. were also analyzed. The report did not say that any deal is likely, but it does add some fuel to the flame. The report also suggests that JPMorgan might also make a play for KeyCorp, a Cleveland-based bank. In other news, Merrill Lynch analysts have told clients that they expect Wachovia to pursue more big deals fairly soon--as it digests its Golden West purchase.

For more on WaMu:
- Here's an article in Business First of Buffalo