text: *Mergers and Acquisitions*
  
  We generally must obtain approval from the banking regulators before we can acquire other financial 
  institutions. We must not engage in certain acquisitions if we are undercapitalized. Furthermore, the BHCA 
  provides that the Federal Reserve Board cannot approve any acquisition, merger or consolidation that may 
  substantially lessen competition in the banking industry, create a monopoly in any section of the country, or be a 
  restraint of trade. However, the Federal Reserve Board may approve such a transaction if the convenience and 
  needs of the community clearly outweigh any anti-competitive effects. Specifically, the Federal Reserve Board 
  would consider, among other factors, the expected benefits to the public (greater convenience, increased 
  competition, greater efficiency, etc.) against the risks of possible adverse effects (undue concentration of resources, 
  decreased or unfair competition, conflicts of interest, unsound banking practices, etc.). 
  
  *Banks*
  
  Federal and state laws and regulations that govern banks have the effect of, among other things, regulating the 
  scope of business, investments, cash reserves, the purpose and nature of loans, the maximum interest rate chargeable 
  on loans, the amount of dividends declared, and required capitalization ratios. 
  
  *National Banking Associations*. Banks that are organized as national banking associations under the National 
  Bank Act are subject to regulation and examination by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, or OCC. The 
  OCC supervises, regulates and regularly examines the First National Bank of Abilene, First National Bank, 
  Sweetwater, First Financial Bank, National Association, Cleburne, Eastland National Bank, San Angelo National 
  Bank, Weatherford National Bank, First Financial Bank, National Association, Southlake and City National Bank, 
  Mineral Wells. The OCC’s supervision and regulation of banks is primarily intended to protect the interests of 
  depositors. The National Bank Act: 