[GOLDMAN SACHS]

[GOLDMAN SACHS] is reportedly considering selling part of its 4.9% stake in [CHINA]'s ICBC, in a deal which could raise more than $1 bln. According to the related article in the WSJ, Goldman could use funds to pay off TARP aid. Sentiment on the battered financial sector is slowly on the improve with US Tsy Sec Geithner's toxic asset plan spurring a 7.08% jump in the S&P index to 822.92, its highest close since Feb 13 and biggest gain since Oct 28.