Barclays explores merger with Standard Chartered

'Hypothetical combinations' with other lenders, including Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse and DBS, also discussed by Barclays directors

Barclays has been exploring a potential merger with rival  banks including Standard Chartered, as  part of wide-ranging contingency plans  being weighed by senior board members  following pressure from an activist investor, the Financial Times reported.

Chairman John McFarlane was at least  theoretically keen on the idea of combining with Standard Chartered, and  was supported by Deputy Chairman Gerry  Grimstone, the FT reported, citing two  unidentified people close to the situation.  “Hypothetical combinations” with other  lenders including Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse Group, and DBS Group  Holdings, have also been discussed by  Barclays’s directors, the newspaper  reported.
 

Barclays has come under increasing