Who Is Responsible for Cooperative Democracy?
As credit unions gear up for the annual meeting season, Chip Filson reminds them not to forget who should be at the center of all decisions and included in decision-making processes: the member owners.
Next City’s Take on Credit Unions
Outsiders to the credit union industry can often see the impact credit unions have on their communities better than those in the industry can. Chip Filson details a few of those examples that spotlight credit unions that are truly serving their communities.
Credit Unions and Public Banks
Chip Filson discusses the idea of public banks, why credit unions should support their establishment, and how they have a place today to serve local governments.
Transparency: A Test for the Cooperative System
Chip Filson comments on transparency and credit unions’ ability and often motivation to keep members in the dark about their operations, and how they are learning this lesson from their regulator.
The People’s Voice: Saint Lawrence FCU Owners Veto Merger
Last fall, members of a New York credit union overwhelmingly voted to reject a merger. Chip Filson looks into the situation and why members may have responded as they did.
Reporting Coop Success In the Glare of Live Market Updates
While required to complete monthly and quarterly financial reports, few credit unions will publicly share the results of said reports. Chip Filson takes issue with this decision, which he says undermines the rights of member-owners and limits transparency.
How a Black Barber in Little Rock, Arkansas Started a Credit Union
Chip Filson shares the story of Arlo Washington, an Arkansas barber who undertook the task of forming a credit union to support his local community.
Are Credit Unions Moving Beyond the NCUA?
Despite a lending capacity of nearly $20 billion, the Central Liquidity Facility has not issued a loan since 2009, leaving many such as Chip Filson wondering if the organization has outlasted its usefulness.
Credit Unions and the Evolution of “Buy Now Pay Later” Lending
Chip Filson dives into the history of buy now, pay later and how the practice—and those who use it—has changed over the decades.
The Wisdom of Elders
Chip Filson shares the perspective of retired credit union CEO John Tippets and how his change in positions has led to new appreciation for the industry as well as the unique ability to observe trends and changes with fresh eyes.
