84

In making its determination, the Banking Board shall consider, among other factors, the public interest. If the board does not approve the merger or consolidation it shall, within ten (10) days of making such decision not to approve, serve notice of its determination on the applicant(s) by registered mail. If the Banking Board approves said agreement, it shall then be filed in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, and shall thenceforth be considered as the merger or consolidation agreement or charter of said financial institutions. A copy of said merger or consolidation agreement, duly certified by the Lieutenant Governor, under his seal, shall constitute evidence of the existence of the new or the consolidated entity. The finding of the Banking Board disapproving a merger or consolidation agreement shall be final.