BUSINESS MEMO: PLEDGES MINORITY LOANS

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Merger partners NationsBank and BankAmerica have pledged to lend $350 billion over the next decade to minorities and low- and moderate-income customers.

The package plan consists of $180 billion for small businesses, $115 billion for affordable housing, $25 billion for economic development and $30 billion for consumer loans.

The two companies last month announced a $57.2 billion merger to create a coast-to-coast banking behemoth with offices in 22 states. The merger is awaiting federal regulatory approval.

The new bank will work with such groups as ACORN Housing Corp., Low Income Housing Fund, the National Council of La Raza and Neighborhood Assistance Corp. of America.