The Cost of Not Learning from Our Brethren’s Mistakes
Covering three recent examples of various losses and corruptions within the credit union industry, Chip Filson argues that while the NCUA is focusing on “correcting” mistakes, there is a distinct lack of needed discussion and learning taking place.
Strategy: How Important is Scale?
Are credit unions losing focus on what really matters in the never-ending pursuit of scale? Chip Filson considers where credit unions may be going astray as they prioritize growth over members.
An Example for Today’s Credit Union Pioneers
A 95-year-old lesson on pioneering new credit unions is still applicable today. Chip Filson shares the lesson of fifteen women with $4.50, the difference that can make, and wonders who will be the pioneer of credit unions today.
Peter Pan and Captain Hook in Credit Union Land
The credit union community seems divided by Peter Pans, who believe in a future for the cooperative model, and Captain Hooks, who see the end around every corner. Chip Filson sees this and asks, “Which one are you?”
What Credit Unions Can Learn from Bank Purchases
Why do bank shareholders get a better deal during an acquisition by a credit union than member-owners in a credit union merger? Chip Filson breaks down the financial details of the two, and wonders why merged credit union owners get a raw deal.
A FinTech Prospecting Tool: Product Hunt
Can credit unions learn from Product Hunt’s democratized approach to user feedback? Chip Filson thinks so. Read why innovation in Silicon Valley can be a model for credit union opportunities.
The New Capital: Member Data
Chip Filson covers member data as the “new capital” and why credit unions should be teaching members to protect and value their own data.
Why Financial Disruption is an Attractive Fintech Opportunity
Chip Filson details why high barriers to entry are forcing new innovation to take less traditional forms in the financial industry.
Lessons from the For-Profit Sector: Corporate Governance
The financial crisis and high profile failures of companies like Enron has prompted companies to take a harder look at their oversight and board governance. Chip Filson looks at those measures and wonders if credit unions should be doing the same.
The Entrepreneurs: Attracting the Next Cohort of Credit Union Leaders
Renewing credit union membership with younger generations is important, but so is renewing leadership with young entrepreneurs. Chip Filson discusses the need for more encouragement of young leaders and for the NCUA to loosen the barriers to new credit unions.
