Sorry that I'm late to the party!

Apologies for arriving late to the party! As I'm not currently in NY, I am a bit behind the news, but, boy, when I opened up WSJ/Dealbook/Dealbreaker/etc. this morning, what a an interesting mix of stories! I'm a was a bit flooded with mixed emotions: schadenfreude that my rival was about to go under, but compassion for my friends at the firm; sympathy that one of the firms for which I was rooting would be acquired by a second-tier shop; and growing concern over whether this will eventually affect me personally (even outside of NY, I'm seeing significant stagnation in dealflow...).

Sympathies to those affected, and I will try to remain a bit more tactful than usual, as it does suck to be in such a situation. If you want to hear my real thoughts, however, send me a PM and I'd be glad to share... as a hint, it involves the absurdiites and detriments of affirmative action.

While I think that BofA lucked out on this Merrill acq., I do say that they are making one fundamental mistake. According to the New York Times:

"It could not be determined if Mr. Thain will play a role in the new company, but two people briefed on the negotiations said they did not expect him to stay."

Oh, Mr. Thain, I am still a long-time supporter and my boy-crush remains as strong as ever. Do give a good consideration in rejoining Goldman, will you?