and they usually do that by taking on debts in the same way that you would buy any company. But the debts owed to banks - mortgages, loans, etc by consumers are considered assets by the bank. I worked for the Royal here in Canada, and they bought several financial institutions over the years, and did not do well. However, Scotiabank has done well. So I guess it depends on how well the target is researched, who's friend owns the majority of shares, etc. Sorry to get my back up yesterday, but I know how polarized the people in the U.S. are when it comes to politics, and no one who is blue, is going to say anything good about anyone who is red. I think you know that. Besides, I was on painkillers and not really coherent. Have a good one Quack. How come you aren't posting as much anymore? Rod got you down? lol. marlinspike.