That's not entirely true. The community banks are companies in...

That's not entirely true. The community banks are companies in their own right and can walk away from the franchise if they wish. The community banks also share the profit 50:50 with Ben. Many small communities didn't have a bank until the ben bank community model and are now thriving because of the community bank and the funds provided by the community bank for community works. BOQ's franchise model is very different with the Bank manager sharing the profits and lining his own pockets, the only thing he provides to the community is the direct employment of the staff members and their sepnding within the community. There is no framework for them to provide money to the community. BOQ's franchise model is profit driven- Bendigo's is focused on growing communities. Have a look at bendigo's mission - "Successful customers and successful communities create a successful bank- in that order." The takeover-sorry merger, won't happen- read between the lines. Ben have said they are taking into consideration "all" stakeholders not just the short term gain for shareholders.