How to Bring Back Neighborly Banking in 2024
As members crave digital and self-service banking methods, how can credit unions add a personal touch to such transactions? James White and Dan Catinella offer suggestions on how to bring back neighborly banking while still meeting member needs and expectations.
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.
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.
NCUA and Mergers: Keeping Members Out of the Room Where It Happens
In the past month, the NCUA has approved of two mergers, both without a vote from the members of the merging credit union. While permissible under NCUA rules, the silence of those involved and the unwillingness to share information has Emily Claus asking why owners are being kept out of the room where it happens.
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.
Revitalizing Workforces: New Year, New Employees
As employees look to better themselves in 2024, businesses should look to do the same and find ways to better support their employees. Stephanie Underwood argues the benefits of offering employee wellness programs and why you should be looking into them sooner rather than later.
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.