NCUA’s Leadership in an Emergency
What is the role of the NCUA in an emergency? Chip Filson argues that the less they involve themselves, the better off the industry will be.
Presenting the Right Message About Credit Unions in Today’s Crisis
Credit unions facing an economic downturn need to avoid being swayed by the doomsayers, says Chip Filson. The most important thing for credit unions is in how they respond.
The Greatest Generation: What They Did for Credit Unions
As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE-Day, Chip Filson reflects on other contributions made by the Greatest Generation that helped shape the future of America.
The Myth of Efficiency and the Allure of Scale
Do mergers and bank purchases, by increasing scale, also increase efficiency and lower operating costs? Or are credit unions focusing on the wrong method? Chip Filson argues the latter.
Credit Unions and Farming: What We Can Learn About Business Sustainability
Contrary to the cliché that size is equal to success, Chip Filson argues that various credit union sizes serve to make the industry stronger. Relating credit unions to the co-op method of community supported agriculture, he reminds us that scale is no substitute for community.
Learning at the Speed of the Crisis: A Cooperative Advantage
In the midst of the coronavirus crisis, everything around us is closing and canceling. During this time, Chip Filson conveys how essential it is for credit unions to keep learning and working thorough the crisis to continue serving their members until the world around us returns to normal.
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?”
