Goldman Reportedly Mulls Settlement with SEC

Goldman Sachs Group Inc. is considering pursuing a settlement with securities regulators over civil charges stemming from its role in arranging mortgage investments, the New York Post reported Thursday on its Web site, citing people close to the bank.

Goldman is concerned that a public fight with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the release of bank emails and documents, may further damage the bank's reputation and a settlement may come soon. Goldman has said the SEC charges have "no basis in fact."

The accusation that Goldman missed an earlier opportunity to settle with the SEC "bears no resemblance to reality," one person told the newspaper. "(Goldman) was never given the chance."

The bank declined comment.