When Vision is Lost: Difficile Est Bonum Esse
As we celebrate this holiday season, Chip Filson reminds us that doing good is very hard, but ultimately worth it. Sustained vision is difficult to maintain, but it’s not impossible and we have an obligation to our founding principles to fight for that vision.
The Unseen Cooperative Advantage
At a time of year when everything feels hectic, Chip Filson reminds us of the wisdom of patience, both with the holiday season and with finding solutions to problems ailing the credit union industry.
The Key to Credit Unions’ Future: Trust Each Other
Chip Filson says an often overlooked element of the credit union model is the trust and involvement of regular member-owners in their credit union. By placing more trust in the member-owner, we are strengthening our credit unions, not burdening them.
Cooperative Trade Associations Need to Evolve with the Times
Trade Associations have had a critical role in the credit union industry over the years. Chip Filson is concerned though that they may be resting on their laurels, and have failed to evolve with an ever changing industry. What does the future hold in store for them?
Banks and Credit Unions Don’t Merge, Stop Saying Otherwise
Saying a credit union “merged with” instead of “acquired” a bank may seem trivial, but Chip Filson doesn’t think so. He says it blurs the lines between the two different financial institutions and weakens the cooperative nature of credit unions.
Getting the Best Leadership for the NCUA
NCUA board member selection is a process that has slipped away from the credit union industry. One in which board members are not selected based on their familiarity or connection to the industry, but thanks to political favors. Chip Filson says it’s time credit unions spoke up and changed this.
NCUA’s Dire Warnings for NCUSIF: Credit Unions Must Pay Attention
Does the NCUA Board have a solid grasp of the NCUSIF? Chip Filson doesn’t believe so, and warns that credit unions must watch over their investment more carefully or be swept away in rampant government spending.
Merger or Acquisition: The Importance of Word Selection
Merger, acquisition, are they really that different? Chip Filson thinks so, and says bank acquisitions are not in the interest of existing members.
Scale and the Law of Diminishing Returns
What can Houston’s highway system teach credit unions? Chip Filson says sometimes seeking scale to solve perceived issues can have unintended consequences.
Football and Credit Unions: Two Past Regulatory Reforms That Are Foundational Today
What do college football and credit unions have in common? According to Chip Filson, a history of being saved thanks to the collaboration of those invested in the outcome.
