Barclays has reportedly 'kicked around' the idea of merging with Standard Chartered

The Financial Times says Barclays' board has considered a merger with Standard Chartered.
The possible deal is apparently one plan being considered to ward off the activist investor Edward Bramson, who has built a 5.4% stake in Barclays.
Neither side has issued statements to shareholders, suggesting no serious talks have taken place.
LONDON — Barclays has considered merging with Standard Chartered Bank, according to a report in the Financial Times.
The FT report on Wednesday cited sources