CITY VIEWS: IS BARCLAYS RIGHT TO TRY AND BUY AN AMERICAN BANK?
CHRIS HARRIS| INSIDE INVESTMENT
“What I think on the subject is that it seems like a good idea. Considering the fact that values at financial companies are depressed at the moment, it’s probably a good acquisition for Barclays.”
RAPHAEL VIALLET | FIRST STATE INVESTMENTS
“Barclays has already had some experience in this area and with the market on the up, now could be the right time for a US acquisition. The economic forecast for the next couple of months is optimistic and price-wise, Barclays could get a good deal.”
RICK MATTILA | BANK OF AMERICA MERRILL LYNCH
“Despite problems with US acquisitions in the past, I don’t think it’s a bad idea, especially as it will be reasonably cheap to pick something up right now. There is obviously the threat of a double dip in the economy, but you’ve got to be brave haven’t you?”