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.
What to Consider When Forming a CUSO
CUSOs are formed for all sorts of reasons. Sometimes for access to tech, sometimes for lowered costs, sometimes for shared resources, and sometimes even all three. Scott Page shares some considerations credit unions should think through when forming a new CUSO.
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.
Does Common Bond Matter Anymore?
Today, fields of membership with limited scopes have been replaced with the more generalized community charter. Chip Filson looks at the evolution of the common bond and what we can learn from it.
A Question of Leadership
Chip Filson asks a seemingly simple question: What makes a leader? In his opinion, the answer is and should be different for the cooperative system.
The Cooperative System’s Unique Capabilities In a Crisis
Cooperatives are uniquely positioned to respond well to crises thanks to their ownership structure and mission. But responding well takes more than just that. Chip Filson details what credit unions and their leaders need to do in those situations.
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.
