This week's most read content includes a Data Dispatch on one of the largest fintech mergers, which was announced this month, as well as a feature on Mechanics Bank's pending acquisition of certain Rabobank assets.

Analysts see largest fintech merger of all time as 'defensive' play

The deal between Fidelity National Information Services Inc. and Worldpay Inc. came two months after Fiserv Inc. and First Data Corp.'s deal was announced.

Mechanics Bank looks to ramp up lending across California with Rabobank purchase

Mechanics Bank management said the company plans to use the greater scale from its acquisition to increase lending, particularly in indirect auto.

Possible Wells Fargo deal could extend Principal's reach in 401(k) market

With $206.4 billion in retirement plan assets, Principal Financial Group Inc.'s executives have recently emphasized the importance of scaling their business, something they may get in their reported deal talks with Wells Fargo over the bank's retirement unit.

Janney eyes depository i-banking 'scale' in deal for FIG Partners

With its deal to acquire FIG Partners LLC, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC hopes to realize synergies between its fixed-income and private client group businesses and FIG Partners clients.

Rising inflation expectations show mission only partially accomplished for Fed

While U.S. breakeven rates have risen close to the Federal Reserve's 2% target, they remain relatively subdued as the central bank looks to weather a global economic slowdown.