WaMu stock rises as it seeks suitors

Shares of Washington Mutual Inc. increased by as much as 24% in Thursday morning trading following reports the Seattle-based firm has put itself up for sale.

The Goldman Sachs Group Inc. of New York has been hired to advise WaMu, according to published reports.

Some potential bidders that Goldman has talked to include Wells Fargo & Co. of San Francisco, and Citigroup Inc. and JPMorgan Chase & Co., both of New York, according to The Wall Street Journal.

JPMorgan made an unsuccessful bid for WaMu this year.

Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported that private-equity firm TPG Capital LP of Fort Worth, Texas, WaMu's largest investor, is allowing the company to raise more capital, sell branches or the entire business.

Source of House Data Skews Loan Losses

New WaMu chief brings Baier onboard

Goldman exec drafted to fight credit crisis