As a result, the M&A market is likely to gather pace in 2014, as midsized banks seek asset growth and small banks look for scale. However, a longer regulatory approval process may be an impediment to volume growth. Actively engaging regulators at the onset of M&A plans will likely make for a much smoother process. Further, banks should ensure M&A plans fully align with their strategies, fit within their risk and governance structure, and are rich with efficiencies, especially in today’s cost-conscious environment.