What if All New Credit Union Charters Were Stopped Today?
What if tomorrow, there were no new credit union charters ever again, asks Chip Filson. While the idea may seem crazy, Filson wonders if that isn’t the exact path our industry has been headed down for some time, and ponders how we might get on a new trail.
The Visibility Gap: Why Transparency is the New Bedrock of CU Capital Partner Confidence
As the market changes and risks grow, Simon Moir makes it clear that credit union partners and potential lenders are looking for one thing above all: transparency.
How to Review a Cooperative’s Annual Report
As credit unions turn in annual reports and prepare for annual meetings, Chip Filson explains why this time of year is the perfect opportunity to assess the true cooperative nature of the credit union.
NCUA’s Financial Fairy Tales
Following the reduction in staff by nearly a quarter, the NCUA claimed it was delivering millions in cost savings to credit unions. However, the numbers show a different outcome: an increase in total spending even with fewer staff members, says Chip Filson.
A Chance for NCUA Chairman Hauptman to Make His Mark
Currently operating as a one-member board, NCUA Chairman Kyle Hauptman has the opportunity to make changes without any opposition from other board members. With this opportunity, Chip Filson suggests Hauptman reassess the NCUSIF’s Normal Operating Level.
Credit Unions Are Having a Moment: Here’s How You Can Capitalize On It
In the current economic environment, the stars are aligning for credit unions to be consumers’ number one choice of financial institution—but not if they don’t capitalize on it. Reid Downey shares how credit unions can be ready to meet the moment.
Why Credit Unions Must Scale Beyond Geography To Compete In 2026
As credit unions step away from their strict geographical limits (while still engaging in their communities), Sarah Milovich discusses how credit unions can build scale into their game plan and ensure they have the capability to do so.
Keep Purpose Constant: Reflections from GAC and the Gospel of Servanthood
Reflecting on her time at last week’s GAC, Denise Wymore wonders if credit unions haven’t ventured too far from their mission and calls on the industry to remember its roots.
Washington Post Opinion on Taxing Credit Unions
Chip Filson discusses the history of credit unions’ tax exemption, why it was created in the first place, if we are still the same industry that was granted it to begin with, and what we would do without it.
Can Credit Unions Buy Their Way to Success?
In an effort to increase their membership, credit unions have been offering cash rewards for new account openings, loans, and more. Chip Filson wonders at the long-term effects of such a strategy and what it might mean for the relationship between financial institution and member.
