CU Snapshot

 2Q '09 1Q '09
# of CUs7,982 7,998
Members
(millions)
91.991.7
Total Assets
($ billions)
871.8867.4
Total Savings
($ billions)
741.8737.2
Net Cap.
/Assets
9.6%9.6%
Loans to Savings78.5%78.8%
Loan Delinq.1.60% 1.54%

Key Economic Indicators

Credit Union Indicators

Rates by State

Rate Alert

 

Articles

CUs Draw Business Grads and Interns

Filene fellowships harness innovation and expertise

Electronic Lending Gains Ground

Speed, cost savings, transparency beat paper processing

Mortgage Fraud Persists

Crooks find new ways to prey on homeowners

Most Employers Lack Workforce-Management Strategies

They’re turning to software for help

Steps to Recovering Lost Trust

Consumer trust is vital in good times and in bad

Boomers in Denial About Retirement Savings

Older employees will feel the effects of the financial crisis

Don’t Dismiss the ATM

Cash and deposit-taking functions are vital to retain members

Housing Market Improves—Slightly

Fewer homeowners are “underwater”

Management Promotions Often Mishandled

Many organizations provide little or no transitional guidance

Be Strategic With Your Branch Hours

Hours of operation can give you a competitive advantage

Consumers Want Cell Phone Alerts

Rapid communication helps limit fraudulent transactions

No Recession in Home Remodeling

Small, practical renovations take center stage

Prepaid Cards Sometimes Loaded With Fees

The cards appeal to 80 million unbanked or underbanked consumers

Some Firms Continue to Invest in Family Benefits

Benefits include telecommuting, flextime, job-sharing, and compressed workweeks

Demand for Information Security Skills is Increasing

Security moves from support to central business function

Economy Takes a Toll on Employee Benefits

Employers are trimming programs to cut costs

Firms Take More Control Over 401(k)s

An aggressive approach attempts to secure workers’ retirement

What’s Next for Recruiting and Hiring?

More employers plan to hire rather than cut employees

Workforce Profiles

ACH Popularity Heralds Rising Risk

New technologies lead to more transactions

Competition Update: Consumer Satisfaction Leads to Deposit Growth

Research shows customer satisfaction accounts for 15% to 20% of deposit growth

Considering Small Business Services?

Weigh the pros and cons, and research your market

Consumers Now Opt for the Web Over the Branch

But a multi-channel delivery strategy is still the way to go

Beyond Facts, the Web Yields Feelings

“Sentiment analysis” translates emotion into data

Cities and Counties Are Selling Delinquent Tax Bills

Private companies then use aggressive tactics to go after homeowners

Influenza Preparedness and Response

It’s time to makes contingency plans for the 2009-2010 flu season

Student Debt Shifts to Costly Private Loans

But CUs offer lower rates and fees to young borrowers

“Walkability” Can Boost Property Values

Implications for zoning, development, and lending decisions

Consumer Debt Shows Signs of Improvement

But some analysts see only a temporary uptick

Credit Unions Shine in Mortgage Market

Dramatic growth leads to operational challenges

CU Lending Activity

Electronic Lending Made Mandatory?

Regulators would benefit from viewing assets online

Going Green, Going Electronic

Persistent Foreclosures Moving Upscale

Job losses and falling home prices now afflict prime market

401(k) Plans Bent but Not Broken

Many employers have eliminated or reduced matching contributions

Employers Offer Flexible Scheduling

Increasingly, men try to balance home and family life

How Can CUs Rise Above 6% of Industry Assets?

Retired executives weigh in on possible solutions for breaking the 6% barrier

State of the American Consumer

Growing financial woes take a toll on financial activity

Foreclosures Continue at Record Pace

Nearly one-quarter of mortgage holders are underwater

Income Loss Persists Long After Layoffs

Many workers never return to previous wage levels

Lottery Strategy Helps Members Save

Save to Win program adds the thrill of gambling to saving

Banks Ramp Up Fees to Beat Card Deadline

A raft of new charges will sting unsuspecting consumers

Credit Card Debt Rises for Seniors

More middle-income consumers use cards to cover necessities

Fixing the Economy Could Be Women's Work

They’re more likely to be wired for collaboration, caution, and long-term results

Making Tradeoffs in Branch Efficiency

Conventional approaches pose pitfalls in today’s market

Employers Ease Up on Cost-Cutting Measures

They’re starting to look toward economic recovery

Healthcare Cost Containment Gets Aggressive

Rate increases are lower at companies that control costs and promote wellness

Part-Time Help Wanted: Must Show Initiative

Interns provide value while they gain experience

Pay Raises Are the Smallest In Decades

More firms are connecting raises to performance

Salary Trends

Staff, CEO Compensation

Where to Find Reliable Compensation Data

Look for industry-specific data when studying local markets

Baby Boomers Drive Entrepreneurship

Longer lives and changes in job tenure encourage self-employment

Companies Shift to Short-Term Investments

Tight credit also prompts cuts in spending, staff

Credit Card Outlook Mixed

Delinquencies are down but unemployment and stagnant wages cast a long shadow

Some Homeowners Opting for ‘Strategic’ Defaults

They start to mail in the keys once they pass 10% negative equity

A Glimmer of Hope in the Mature Home-Buyer Market

Boomers are looking for greener forms of housing and transportation

Con Artists Take Advantage of Recession

To scammers, the bad economy is a good opportunity

Most Payday Loan Volume Comes from ‘Churning’

Short-term due date generates need for repeat payday loans

The Young and the Frugal

Gen Y moves toward a simpler lifestyle

Credit Scores Fall as Consumers Struggle

Scores can drop even for those current on payments

Foreclosures Devastate Families

Financial insecurity and economic hardship follow loss of home

Housing Difficulties Continue Despite Signs of a Bottom

Indicators of future demand remain strong

Medical Bills Are Behind Most Bankruptcies

Three-quarters of bankrupt families had health insurance

Consumers Turn to Online Channel

Tools help manage finances in a sagging economy

Economic Outlook 2009

Economics Handouts

Foreclosures Migrate to Prime Market

Job losses and falling home prices hit upscale homeowners

High Unemployment Stalls Recovery Hopes

Pay cuts and joblessness short-circuit consumer spending

Recession Redefines Retirement

Boomers are taking a second look at work and savings

Sluggish Recovery Forecast

Chat Complements Online Services

Real-time dialogue reduces user frustration

Commercial Mortgage Defaults Continue to Rise

Recession drags down rents, increases vacancies

Competition Update: Opportunities in Retirement Planning

Flight to safety offers the chance to build market share

Use Imagery to Focus Advertising

Emotionally provocative messages connect with low- to moderate-income consumers

Competition Update: Banks Hike Fees on Checking Accounts

Facing revenue limits on credit cards, banks look elsewhere

Innovate the Old-Fashioned Way

The next wave of innovation will be add-ons to traditional products

Look Beyond the Generation Gap

All ages value respect, recognition, and financial stability

Recruiting Volunteers and Imposing Term Limits

CU executives weigh in on the age-old debate

Text Messaging and Collections: An Effective Combination?

Text reinforces other strategies for reaching accountholders

Checklist for Mergers

Making a merger work requires adhering to certain tested guidelines.

Consumer Spending ‘Freefall’ Ending?

But the consumer still is cautious, according to MasterCard.

Controlling Health-Care Costs

Recession is driving workers to make better lifestyle choices to cut health-care costs.

Should You 'Friend' Your Members?

A social networking presence may be important, but just how important?

Small-Business Credit Options

For many small businesses, credit cards are the only financial option currently available.

Boost Contact-Center Efficiency

Make better use of existing people, processes, and technology

Card Industry Goes After Best Payers

Attempts to replace profits could curtail rewards and grace periods

Competition Update: Defections From Banks Likely to Continue

Distrust and a lack of confidence drive customers away

Shift from Credit to Debit Cards Continues

Product and marketing strategies adjust to consumer preferences

Use Layoffs Sparingly and Strategically

Assess your workforce with an eye toward post-recession growth

Adopt a Team Approach to Strategic Planning

Senior management and the board function best as partners in the process

Framing the Future

IT Initiatives Stall with the Economy

But opportunities abound for smaller institutions with scalable systems

Market Analysis Aids Planning

The best vision and mission statements lead to action

Plan Now for Senior Management Turnover

Most employers recognize talent gaps, but many lack succession plans

Planning in a Crisis

Try a Scenario-Based Process

Uncertain times call for more variables, intensive monitoring, and rapid responses

Competition Update: Banks Jump on Twitter Wagon

Players of all sizes can compete in the social networking space

Credit Unions Link to Online Communities

Personal financial sites tie in with members’ transaction accounts

Mortgage Fraud Linked to Other Financial Crimes

Criminals will exploit any vulnerability across all financial sectors

Small Businesses Still Can’t Borrow

Bank credit is still tight, but expect more start-ups following the recession

Workplace Conflict Can Yield Positive Results

Personalities, egos, and stress are primary causes of conflict

Branch Design Moves Away From Retail Style

Figure out which features enhance the member experience

Competition Update: Innovation in Alternative Financial Services

Keep an eye on mobile-phone financial services and P2P lending

Competitors Are Serving Up Credit-Card Opportunities

Their mistreatment of cardholders should drive them to your CU

Female Leaders Confident About Their Careers

Most women say mentors are important, but few have them

New Card Regs Will Change Market

Expect smaller issuers to have competitive opportunity

Financial Abuse Hits Older Americans

It’s a crime of opportunity that victimizes an aging population

Payday Lenders Profile Neighborhoods

Race and ethnicity drive choice of locations

Rebooting the American Dream

There’s renewed interest in creating a personal financial safety net

Recession Dents Consumer Purchases

Consumers are reassessing luxuries and necessities

Retirement Expectations Plummet

Many expect to work longer before leaving their jobs

Build on Loyalty, Create Engagement

Consumers are ready to do business with trustworthy financial providers

Competition Update: Analytic Tools Help Shape Marketing Plans

But they’re only as good as core systems and data quality

Growth Strategies

Link Marketing and Public Relations

Build your marketing strategy around targeted and timely messages

Loyalty Leads to Growth

Truly loyal members will recommend the credit union to family and friends

Member Satisfaction: A Step Toward Excellence

CUs outshine banks in satisfaction index

2009-2010 National Surveys

Bankruptcy—It’s Back

Filings surge in economically distressed areas

Consumers Want Choice on Overdraft Coverage

They’re steamed over big fees on small purchases

Credit Card Practices Come Under Scrutiny

White House and Congress are pushing for reform

IT Spending Will Be Slow Through 2010

Institutions are trimming discretionary spending and new capital expenditures

Think Twice Before Suspending 401(k) Match

Look for alternatives before jeopardizing employees’ retirement savings

Competition Update: Small Community Banks at Risk

Compliance, technology requirements can overwhelm smaller institutions

Foreclosure Rescue Scams Coming on Strong

‘Mortgage specialists’ promise much but rip off struggling homeowners

Prepaid Cards Appeal to Distressed Consumers

Benefits include security, convenience, and no need for credit checks

Raise Revenue, Don’t Cut Social Security Benefits

Boomers don’t believe Social Security is in crisis

Small Businesses Gaining Optimism

Business owners think the economy is headed in the right direction

Competition Update: Gen Y Takes to 'Virtual' Accounts

Rates are low, but money-management tools provide the attraction

Default Rates Double on Prime Loans

Credit quality continues to decline across all risk categories

Foreclosures: Some Banks Walk Away

Abandoned houses complicate an already difficult problem

Have a Question? Ask CURE

Retired executives assist those in the trenches

Who’s Watching Retirement Savings?

Some 401(k) sponsors aren’t doing enough to monitor their plans

Credit Unions Are Working Overtime to Get the Word Out

NCUA’s corporate actions send CU public relations efforts into overdrive

Most Consumers Value Convenience but Are Wary of Fees

They also need to understand what a credit union is before they’ll consider joining

People Tap 401(k) Accounts for Cash

Short-term hardship withdrawals crimp retirement savings

Shrinking Fee Income Threatens Free Checking

Promote a variety of appropriately priced services

Communicate Safety and Optimism

Use research to create a fact-based marketing plan

Competition Update: Campaigns Blend Creativity and PR

Your marketing campaigns need to be memorable, not just different

Marketing in a Downturn—and Beyond

Position your CU today for tomorrow’s economic recovery

On Budget, On Message

Partner with Finance for Impact and Accountability

CFOs and marketing directors need to find common ground

Think Marketing, Tap Technology

Top Marketing Trends

Executives might be sick of Web 2.0, but it’s a force to be reckoned with

Supreme Court Rules Against Lenders

Decision makes federal court appeal more difficult

Boomer Wealth Sliced Almost in Half

Retiring baby boomers will lean more heavily on Social Security and Medicare

Consumers, Lenders Rein in Credit Card Debt

Delinquencies continue to rise, but at a reduced rate

Discover Card Targets Teens

New Current card teaches kids about managing money

Mergers Are Frequently Full of Surprises

Following these guidelines will make the process smoother

‘Prize-Linked Savings’ Offer Incentive to Save

CUs in pilot program generate $330,000 in deposits

Competition Update: Business Owners Meet on Social Networks

Low-cost sites give insight to prime customer group

Layoffs Expected to Decline

But look for more salary and hiring freezes, 401(k) match reductions, and smaller raises

Managers Are Ultimately Responsible for Employee Engagement

A poor employee/manager relationship is more than enough to make employees leave

Networks for Reloading Prepaid Cards Will Hike Card Use

Location, convenience, and consistency draw cash-based customers

Recession Prompts Increased Need for Security

Chief security officers are concerned about crime, theft, and frozen security budgets

Consumer Fears Dampen Once-Robust Economy

Japan's Lost Decade holds lessons for U.S.

Household Finances Mostly Sound

Compared with Wall Street, individual consumers are the picture of prudence

Investors Slowly Returning to Markets

The affluent are starting to feel out the new financial world

Online Channel Gets Traction During Tough Times

People like saving time and having the ability to monitor their finances

Prepaid Cards Threaten Checking

Consumers could save but CUs lose in shift from checking to prepaid debit

CU Deposits Changing

Debt Opens Doors to Scams and Harassment

Members who are overextended need reputable credit counseling

Fear Itself Haunts Recovery

Anxiety rises as Americans anticipate pay cuts, layoffs

Financial Education Resources

New Age of Thrift

Recession Erodes Savings

Retirement savings, mortgages, emergency funds are hit

Supporting Savers: From Coercion to Excitement

The End of Consumerism as We Know It?

We’re hunkering down in favor of simple living

The Paradox of Thrift

What’s good for one may not be good for all

The Responsible Choice Plan

A ‘win-win’ for lenders and troubled borrowers

Containing Health-Care Costs Is Top Concern for Employers

Employees, however, are more concerned about being able to afford retirement

Five Trends Are Shaping Business Technology

CFOs and CIOs must deal with tighter budgets and heavier demands

Payment Preferences Going Electronic

But the shift to e-payments poses member-relations and cost-control challenges

Real Estate Market Still Churning

Home resales are stronger, but vacancies and foreclosures persist

Some Recession Forecasts Go Out Five Years

Confidence continues to fall among consumers, CEOs, investors

Analytics Help Retailers, Marketers Chart Consumer Habits

A new breed of tracking software taps into consumer buying behavior

Is Your Board a Victim of ‘Anchored’ Thinking?

Most boards are uncomfortable with the degree of change required to thrive in the future

Outline, Fact Sheet on Financial Stability Plan

Two documents from CUNA helping explain Treasury's Financial Stability Plan and its effects on CUs.

Plan Now for Senior Management Turnover

Most employers recognize talent gaps, but many lack succession plans

Public Pessimism Reaches New Low

Dismal economic news dominates the media

Women Poised to Pass Men in Workforce

Massive layoffs—primarily of men—force changes in traditional roles

Bright Spots Amid Economic Gloom

CUs and members can reap a few benefits from the recession

Competition Heats Up in Remittance Market

The market is set to double, and mobile’s the upcoming technology

ID Theft Spikes During Economic Downturn

Prepare for more fraudulent attempts to access member data

Instant Messaging Comes Under Scrutiny

As the technology spreads, regulation follows

Lessons Learned from First-Accounts Program

CUs reach low- and moderate-income members through outreach, education

Blended Credit Scoring Helps Manage Portfolio

Looking at both personal and business credit scores is most accurate

Community Base Gives CUs the Edge

Smaller institutions have the inside track when serving small businesses

Education Important to Small Business

Accounting and financial information are highly valued by business owners

Entrepreneurs Are Eager for Mobile Options

More than one-third of small businesses are interested in m-banking

Small Business Is Big Business

Small-business owners value personal service and stable relationships

CUs Report on MBL Programs

Monitoring Member Business Loans

Banks’ Dilemma: Lend Bailout Funds or Shore Up Bottom Line

Banking experts wonder if the bailout is doing more harm than good

Can Paymo Gain Merchant and Consumer Acceptance?

The service lets consumers charge e-commerce transactions to cell phone bills

Educate Members about Refund-Anticipation Loans

Other tax-time options are fast and less expensive

Financial Institutions Are in a Pricing ‘Arms Race’

Progressive institutions are using more sophisticated modeling techniques

New Tool Brings In Deposits from Social Networks

The widget is one more way to advance a mobile payments strategy

Credit Card Predictions for 2009

Recession is causing lenders and borrowers to adopt new card strategies

Forget Gen Y Stereotypes

They’re eager to take on additional responsibilities

Giving the Gift of Microfinance

Web-based options help fund entrepreneurs around the world

Many Commercial Property Loans Are In Trouble

$400 billion in commercial mortgages risk default or foreclosure this year

Pilot Program Shows Appeal of U.S. Savings Bonds

Convenient options at tax time encourage low-income families to save

Checking and ATM Trends

Consumers Flee to Safety

You can’t over-communicate the safety-and-soundness message

Fees Survey Report

Large and Small Institutions Weigh Fee Strategies

Mega-banks are positioned to pass higher costs on to customers

Overdraft Fees

Some Institutions Actually Increasing Ad Budgets

Battle for loyalty and deposits supersedes fears of recession

Surcharge-Free ATM Networks Are Growing

CU members can save more than $3 per transaction using networked ATMs

Companies Cut Costs Without Layoffs

They’re looking for alternatives to slashing the work force

Consumers Flunk Basic Finance

Poor skills and lack of knowledge contribute to money woes

Employment in Financial Sector Holding Steady

Watch for opportunities to hire key staff

Homeowner Equity Varies by Location

Rent is one measure of housing value

Mortgage Fraud Jumps by 45%

Misrepresentation often occurs early in the loan process

Competition Update: Grameen America Rolls Out Microloans

A pilot program is poised to expand with loans to small businesses

CU Auto Lending Is Strong Despite Weak Car Sales

Lenders now require good credit and a down payment

Invest in Employee Development During a Down Cycle

Toyota moves people from the production line to the classroom

Single-Women Households Hurting Financially

They earn and save much less than other households

Immigrant-Owned Businesses Net $67 Billion in Income

Immigrants own just over 11% of businesses with $100,000 or more in sales

Is College Becoming Unaffordable?

Student loans will play a vital role

More Consumers Turning to Online Account Aggregators

Consumers see this as a way to save some money during a recession

Overdraft Fees Hit Young, Low-Income Consumers

Charges on small-dollar transactions stem from ATM and debit use

SafePass Could Be Next Step in Online Security

Bank of America enlists consumers to help protect accounts

Cash-Based Alternative Payments On the Rise

One-third of online retail transactions could be alternative payments by 2013

Don’t Blame CRA for Subprime Meltdown

Controversial lending law not the root cause of subprime lending woes

Employers Strive to Retain Gen Y Talent

Turnover runs high, but simple tactics can improve retention

Network Attacks Becoming More Sophisticated

Internet service providers strain to provide security despite cost pressures

Personal Profiles Can Drive Invasive Marketing

Unregulated use of consumer data enables credit even to the least qualified

Another Great Depression?

Similarities exist, but we might have learned a few things since 1929

Economic Overview

Housing Is Still the Root of Financial Turmoil

Recovery in the housing market will help restore stability in the credit markets

Middle Class Faces Precarious Future

A deep recession brings the prospect of downward economic mobility

Small Business Taking Big Hits

Employment and confidence decline, while credit remains tight

The Mother of All Economic Bubbles

Now that it has popped, recession could extend well into 2010

U.S. Credit Union Profile

Build Business Strategy on Your Brand

Branding is hard to define but essential to success

Doing More with Debit Cards

Opportunities exist with affluent cardholders and rewards programs

Holding On to Mortgage Loans—and Relationships

Some consumers seek out institutions that keep loans in-house

Holiday Spending Forecasts Weaken

Cautious consumers are another sign of a deepening recession

Online Fraud and ID Theft Are Still Major Concerns

Consumers are the front line in their own defense

Demand Rises for IT and Network Experts

Competencies required of IT workers are expanding to meet greater demands

Disruptive Technologies Reshape Markets

It often takes decades for their full effects to be realized

Mobile Banking Takes a Step Forward

M-banking will provide info about a payment instead of replacing the payment itself

Next Downturn May Be Salaries

Falling pay affects consumer spending and economic growth

Will Credit Cards Be the Next Bubble to Burst?

Some observers expect a surge of charge-offs soon

Anxiety, Stress Afflict Workplace

Economic anxiety takes a toll on productivity and retention

Credit Union Operational Reports

Employment and Benefits Snapshot

Engaged Employees

Creating highly committed employees starts at the top and ends at the bottom line

Health, Retirement Savings, and Employee Benefits Trends

HR’s Role Rises During Economic Downturn

Changes in employee benefits and staffing call for clear communication

Increase Employee Engagement

Promote Diversity in the Workplace

Look beyond race and gender to qualifications

Social Networks Enter Recruiters’ Toolkit

They’re increasingly used to attract and screen job applicants

Strategic Planning Must Include HR

Roles may include preparation, facilitation, and follow-up

Compliance Deadline Looms for ‘Red Flags’ Program

CUs are required to assess vulnerability to ID theft

Economic Forecast Remains Cloudy

U.S. economy likely to contract well into 2009

Have Home Prices Found the Bottom?

Adjustable-rate mortgages continue to reset through 2009

Phishing Is Good in a Bad Economy

Bank failures, mergers, and takeovers lead to scams targeting accountholders

Visa Unveils New Payment Alternative

Reloadable prepaid card to target underserved

Balance Expenses, Service with Micro-Improvements

Expense-reduction ideas should support the member experience

Data Security Tops Technology Concerns

Community banks spend more to meet demands of information security, compliance

Don’t Let Hard Times Derail Your Advertising

In a climate of fear, ads can reassure consumers

Set Standards to Serve Seniors

Nearly one in six Americans will be age 65 or older by the year 2020

Current Card-Reward Winner? Gas

Gas-focused cards attract new clients and offer more to consumers

FHA Takes on Subprime, Alt-A Loans

Now shunned by private lenders, risky loans migrate to government agency

It’s Tough to Recoup Bill-Pay Costs

Boosting online marketing might be a better bet

Many Older Americans Face a Mortgage Crisis

They’re hit hard and have little time to recover value

Young Consumers Live in a Web 2.0 World

Internet options and wireless phones define the next generation of members

Can the U.S. Dodge a Recession?

Latest economic turmoil could push us over the edge

Employment Slows in Financial Sector

Projected fourth quarter hiring weakest in 16 years

Fraud Forum Shares Critical Info

Collaboration among financial institutions helps fight online crime

Rebate Checks Fund Back-to-School Purchases

College students tighten up, as K-12 spending rises slightly

Tight Credit Restricts Small-business Owners

Ripple effect spreads to Main Street

Improving Sales Performance

Now More Than Ever, Sales Important

New ideas and practices can help turn the branch into a sales center

Sales & Service Webinars

Sales Success Based on Hiring, Training, Tracking

A vibrant sales culture begins with management hiring the right people and fostering a sales-oriented environment

The Impact of Loyalty

Auditing Your Sales Process is a Good Start

CUs can build on service advantage and community relationships

Disengaged Employees Will Undermine Sales Initiatives

Only about 20% of frontline bank employees are engaged and motivated

Move Your Staff from Order-Takers to Consultants

Your staff need the right combination of social skills and a drive to achieve

Consumers Paying More Bills Online

The credit card bill is the most likely one to be paid online

More Consumers Are Tapping 401(k) Loans

Strapped consumers turn to easily accessible loans to help make ends meet

Prepaid Card Use Must Overcome Hurdles

An Iowa CUSO is trying to convince employers and employees to use prepaid cards

Surcharge-Free ATMs Are Leading the Way

CU 24 and Co-op Financial Services trying to give CUs a surcharge-free alternative

U.S. Closes the Mobile Gap

U.S. has caught up with Western Europe in innovation, but still seeks payment models

Competition Update: Banks Pilot Small-Dollar Loans

Banks see these loans as the gateway to more profitable relationships

Finance Hooks Up with Social Networking

It’s all about providing connections to younger consumers

Lending Standards Continue to Tighten

Credit availability has yet to turn the corner

Mortgage Fraud Jumps Again

And the FBI expects the trend to increase

Traditional Mortgages Still the Best Bet

Low- and moderate-income borrowers are best suited for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages

Best Practices Guide Image Exchange

Consider the business case for check-processing technology

Commercial Property Loans Next to Tumble?

As consumer credit goes south, commercial credit could follow

Competition Update: Banks Mull Teen Card Market

Prepaid debit could help young people learn financial responsibility

Ethnic Minorities Lag in Credit Card Ownership

About half of Hispanics own credit cards

Home Sales Rise from 17-Year Low, Inventory Drops

Good news, but no market turnaround yet

Buyers' Guide to Technology

Competition Update: Banking on Business in 2015

Technology is key in a rapidly changing market

CU Technology: Priorities and Budgets

Executive Oversight Boosts IT Success

Project failure often comes from people issues, not technology

IT Strategic Planning

Technology Spending Tracks with Economy

Financial institutions are trying to get more out of existing systems

What To Do With Your Core System?

Smaller institutions are upgrading older legacy systems

Consumer Cutbacks Changing U.S. Economy

Gen Y could be most affected by a long-term trend toward frugality

Discretionary Spending Off, Consumer Pessimism Reaches New Low

Battered by food and fuel prices, households cut back on major purchases

Education Important to Small Businesses

Accounting and financial information help strengthen relationships

Enter New Remittance Technologies

Smaller operators could be disrupted by mobile applications

Fine Tuning the 401(k)

Employers enhance their plans to meet recruiting and retention challenges

Companies Admit E-Mail is an Unplugged Leak

Most firms can't prevent employees from e-mailing confidential data

Competition Update: Banks Try Securitizing CDs

The proposal could alleviate deposit pressures on banks and help raise capital

Credit Card Issuers Offering More Options

They’re adopting variable rates and multiple plans

Despite Economy, Retirement Assets Keep Growing

Assets held in IRAs and 401(k)s increased 11% from the pervious year

High Fees and Poor Service Send Young Consumers Packing

Younger consumers will probably always be less loyal than their elders

Lenders, Know Your Borrowers

Credit unions provide a clear alternative to risky mortgage securitization

Mobile Payments Shaking Out

Decisions to be made on use of ACH, ATM, or card association networks

Most Middle-Class Retirees Will Outlive Retirement Savings

Those without guaranteed income will need to reduce their standard of living

Shopping for Student Loans Could Threaten Credit Ratings

Fair Isaac thinks it’s rare, but lenders and student-loan brokers think it’s common

What About a Super-Simple Retirement Savings Plan?

The U.S. could follow the U.K.’s lead to help with retirement savings

2008 Financial Literacy Survey

The first step is identifying what consumers know about their finances

Consumers Misjudge Their Credit Ratings

Lack of information, overconfidence, lead to bad financial decisions

How Do You Spell 'Solvency'?

When it comes to financial illiteracy, what you don't know can hurt you

Ignorance Lands Americans in Debt

Part of the solution may be simplicity in financial products and services

Retirement Planning Hinges on Financial Knowledge

People who plan build more wealth and are better prepared for their retirement years

Biometric Progress

ISO standard means identification technologies are becoming more acceptable

Branch Success Depends on Details

Start with a clear strategy that meets local needs

CEOs Need Greater IT Understanding

Opportunities are lost in coordinating business strategies

Consumers Wary of Next-Generation ATMs

Image scanners are designed to gather deposits, but security concerns threaten adoption

Credit Unions Are Safe and Sound

Now may be a good time to remind members of deposit safety

Doing Good by Doing Well

When does microfinance become profit-taking from the poor?

Expand Your Mortgage-Lending Reach

Technology brings dramatic opportunities among ‘thin-file’ borrowers

Housing Downturn Pressures the Economy

Slump in housing market hasn’t yet run its full course

Loan Pain Detailed Online

Mortgage lender misery registers on the Implode-O-Meter

Running on Fumes

Gas prices add to strained family budgets

Bankruptcy Rates Soar Among Seniors

Experts say health-care costs are the prime suspect

Employee Engagement Similar Across Generations

Multigenerational teams offer a healthy blend of skills and experience

Open Innovation in Products and Services

Collaborative creation by online consumers is still in its infancy

Penalty Fees Increase for Overdrafts

It’s another sign of the earnings squeeze at financial institutions

Be Creative with Social Media Tools

Marketers are still experimenting with new Web resources

Competition Update: Next-Generation Marketing

Localized search engines and targeted e-mail are high priorities

Make the Most of Digital Touchpoints

Leverage interactive tools to create effective online strategies

Metrics, Strategies, and Word-of-Mouth Campaigns

New Markets, New Messages

Online Tools Transform Marketing

You don’t have to use them all—just pick one, use it well

Skip Microtrends and Go Straight to Macrotrends

Marketing strategies are shifting from traditional to alternative media

Consumers Want Major Changes in Health Care Design, Delivery

Survey has implications for providers, health plans, and employers

Offering Retirement Plans to Small Business

Getting in on the ground floor may yield decades-long relationships

Pain Persists in Housing Market

Foreclosures jump nearly 50%, delinquencies also up in key states

Small Business Lending Accelerated in 2007

Number of small loans up 15%, dollar value up 8%

Vacation Time: It’s Essential to Your Health

The risk of heart attacks rises among those tethered to the office

Call Centers Are Doing More With Less

Financial institutions can’t afford to cut back on customer service

Consumers Give Branded Gift Cards High Marks

Users report high levels of satisfaction

Reaching the Underserved Requires Innovation

The checking account might not be the best entry product for the underserved

Sales Leadership Strategies

Front-line managers are critical to supporting a sales environment

Workplace Mental Health Problems Can Be Costly

Workers with ADHD could lose nearly a month’s work per year

Avoid Common Flaws in Diversity Training

Reinforcement, metrics help focus programs on changing workforce

Consumers Tap Savings to Meet Living Expenses

Many prefer online option to resolve late payments

CUs Offering Scooter Loans

Rising gas prices boost sales of smaller vehicles

Market Sends Mixed Messages on Mobile Banking

Security concerns slow acceptance

Position Your CU Now for an Economic Upturn

It’s time to assess branch efficiency and product performance

CU360 FAQ

This FAQ answers questions you may have about CU360.

Don’t Forget the Megatrends

How will your CU deal with disintermediation, competition, and commoditization?

Dos and Don’ts of IT Strategic Planning

Prioritize projects, analyze risk, and predict the likelihood of change

Make Planning Personal

Encourage employees to be full participants in the process

Bad Assumptions Kill Good Strategies

Use “assumption management” techniques to protect your planning process

E-Scan Top 10 Insights

E-Scan Top 10 Trends (PowerPoint)

NCUA Focus on Planning

Consumers Prefer One Card

Other payment options sit in the wallet

Is Remote Deposit Capture Worth the Investment?

Pricing is the key to attract small-business accounts

Know Where You’re Going

Choosing a new branch location demands thorough planning

Payday Lenders Pose a Threat

To fight back, offer short-term products that retain your member base

The Cell Phone is Number One

It’s more important to people than their wallet or keys

More Shareholders Having Their Say on Executive Pay

Investors give thumbs up or down on the compensation committee’s work

Multi-Generational Employment Is Essential

Gen Y employees are key to reaching Gen Y members

Pew to Set Account Standards for the Underserved

Fringe bankers charge consumers more than $800 each a year to cash paychecks

The Future of Decoupled Debit is Uncertain

Capital One’s pilot is over. Now what?

Women Face Unique Retirement Challenges

They have lower savings rates and might invest too conservatively

Are All Member-Contact Employees on the Same Page?

Members expect seamless service across all delivery channels

Help Low-Income Members Build Assets

The strategy can help you add members and build loyalty

Lessons From the P2P Community

Consumers are now dictating the terms of their financial relationships

Small-Business Start-Ups Remain Strong

Latinos outpace all other ethnic groups as entrepreneurs

Turn Your Branch ‘Green’

Here are some ways to build and maintain an eco-friendly branch

Competition Update: Innovation in High-Interest Savings Accounts

One bank is combining the product with social networking

Could the Subprime Mess Be Just the Beginning?

It could get worse if California's prime borrowers start walking away from their homes

Opportunities for Branch Expansion

It might be time to move ahead while others hold back

Plastic Adds to Student Debt

Some states banning credit-card solicitations on campuses

Cultivate Membership Growth

Innovative strategies attract and retain members

Female Consumers Now an Influential Market

Women are at the helm of 40% of privately owned businesses

Future Looks Bright for Global Banking

The industry is expected to more than double its profits in the next decade

Gauge Loyalty Early and Often

Financial institutions do “tolerably well” when it comes to providing basic services

Help Young Members Understand IRAs

Nearly 90% don’t understand them—but wish they did

15 Fastest Growing Credit Unions

Credit Union Growth Task Force

Hispanic Resources

Can Savings Bonds Make a Comeback?

Two new initiatives help consumers build savings

Consumer Delinquencies at 15-Year High

Weak economy means problems will persist

Momentum Builds for Mobile Banking

Consumers are ready, but will revenues follow?

Processors Connect CUs to Mobile Services

Core technology is key for small to mid-size institutions

Retirement Savings, Worker Confidence Low

Concerns about health care, economy have many worried

Branch Expansion Slows With Economy

Financial institutions are becoming more opportunistic

Guidance for Business Continuity Planning

FFIEC offers guidelines to help your CU plan for a pandemic

Money Management Takes to the Web

In tough times, consumers have greater interest in financial management

New Scam in the Neighborhood

It’s a complex scheme called ‘house stealing’

Prepaid Cards Oversold?

The prepaid debit card market might be smaller than first thought

ID Theft Goes Low-Tech

Threats often come from friends and family, with victims reluctant to prosecute

Japan and Sweden Have Been Down This Economic Road

Both countries offer valuable lessons of what to do—and what not to do

Lawmakers Call for Tighter Supervision of Investment Banks

Some say it’s the price that must be paid in exchange for access to emergency cash

Peer-to-Peer Lenders Are Attracting Prime Borrowers

Credit crunch is sending people with good credit ratings to P2P sites

Take Advantage of a Recession

Increased advertising during a downturn can improve market share and ROI

Due Diligence: What the Heck Is It?

The goal is to uncover hidden traps associated with a proposed business action

Eight Steps to Manage Risk

Due diligence is ongoing—it doesn’t end when the contract is signed

NCUA Key Examination Issues

Selecting and Managing IT Vendors

The process plays a big role in your IT department’s overall success

Strategic Outsourcing

Assess how outsourcing will support business goals

The Risk Intelligence Series

Third-Party Performance Standards

Avoid contracts that lock in your CU without adequate performance measures

Competition Update: Banks Make Their Beef with FDIC

Subprime mortgage crisis leads the way

Guidance Coming on Remote Deposit Capture

A new CUNA tech survey shows more than one-third of large CUs offer RDC

More Employers Offer Training on Privacy Issues

Federal requirements are expected to filter into the private sector

Recession Prospects: Are We There Yet?

Economists differ, but opinions range from bad to worse

You Can’t Hear Them, But “Zombie Armies” Are Marching On

Botnets continue to grow, infecting up to 40% of PCs

Census Bureau Reports Technology Spending

Business spent $250 billion on technology infrastructure in 2006

GAO Examines Bank Fees

Oversight agency believes consumers need more information about fees

GAO Studies Use of CTRs

Study finds need for clearer rules on exemptions

More Homeowners Giving Up

They’re throwing in the towel even before rates reset

Subprime Rescue Plans Benefit Banks Primarily

Taxpayers foot the bill to finance bailout plans

Competition Update: Banks Deploying Web 2.0

“You need to do something. It’s not an option any more.”

Demand for Broadband Will Continue Through 2011

There has been ‘explosive growth in network traffic’

Immigration Fueling U.S. Population Growth

Hispanics will make up 29% of the U.S. population in 2050

Lenders Go Long With Auto-Loan Terms

More durable cars and a weak economy affect sales and credit

Payday Lenders Find a New Market

High-interest lenders target the elderly and disabled

CUs Offering Business Lending Services

Emerging Markets Hold Mortgage Potential

Minority homebuyers represent best opportunity for mortgage lenders

Franchisees Represent Untapped Loan Market

Most franchise owners need loans to get started

Loan Growth Is Possible—Even In This Economy

Strategic planning can help CUs identify lending opportunities

Mortgage Market Struggles, Ads Continue

Mortgage companies pump out upbeat advertisements; CUs praised as "lifeline"

CU Role in Small Business Market

Lender Risk and Liability

Competition Update: New Credit Card Rolling Out

Anonymous cards and low merchant fees look to entice users

Employers Are Slow to Transform HR

HR departments need to be aligned with strategic business objectives

Fed Looks at Lending Landscape

Numbers point to tighter credit standards, less demand

Move Over Mortgage Meltdown, Here Comes the Credit Card Crisis

Card issuers are raising rates and lowering ceilings

Upside Down in the Mortgage Market

Many Americans now owe more than their homes are worth

A Wave of Foreclosures in 2007

Nevada, Florida, and Michigan have highest foreclosure rates

Competition Update: Opportunity in the Credit Crunch

Nonbanks are best poised to leverage inroads with the underbanked

Critical Issues and Trends for 2008

This will be a year of managing through uncertainty

The Branch vs. Remote Deposit Capture

Is the industry operating at cross purposes?

Where’s the Interest in Text Alerts?

Consumers need extraordinary reasons to sign up for and use alerts

Americans Weigh In On Health Care Reform

Most survey respondents see employers, individuals, and the government sharing the load

Change the Game

Innovation can distinguish CUs from the competition

Cleaning Up the Foreclosure Mess

Can community-based financial institutions play a role?

Consumers Warned to Avoid Tax-Refund Loans

Fees from refund-anticipation loans are approaching $1 billion

Cultivate Staff Creativity

Take your team beyond simple brainstorming

David vs. Goliath in Financial Services

Size brings advantages, but a focus on service helps level the field

Foreclosure Is Still the Most Common ‘Fix’

Mortgage lenders slow to modify loan terms

How to Become a ‘Serial Management Innovator’

What can your CU learn from unconventional organizations?

Innovation, the IDEO Way

The right tools can help you structure a complex process

Need a Little Help With Innovation?

Filene’s i3 group exists for that very purpose

Need for Innovation

Competition Update: Tech Budgets Focus on Data Security

Community banks spare no expense in protecting data

Member Advocacy Drives Loyalty, Growth

Uphold your members’ interests and they’ll reward you by using more services

Social Security to Issue Debit Card

It’s intended to provide convenience, savings, and security for underserved recipients

Study Sheds Light on Branch Performance

Expansion to accelerate over next three years

Subprime Crisis Hits Women

Women at all income levels receive more high-cost loans than men

A Wild Ride in the Mortgage Market

Mortgage rates fall; delinquencies and applications rise

Build Your Payments Strategy on Checking Accounts

Deposit accounts present opportunities for competitive differentiation

Credit Card Debt Soars as House Prices Plunge

The current rate of house-price decline will consume $2.2 trillion this year

Don’t Let Valuable Experience Retire with Baby Boomers

Planning for the organized transfer of knowledge requires long-range thinking

Expect IM Attacks in 2008

Instant messaging provides one more way for thieves to access your data

Are Texting Services Here to Stay?

While not a ‘killer app,’ it’s an easy way to launch mobile services

Are You Planning for a Pandemic?

FFIEC publishes guidance to help you prepare

Competition Update: To Reward or Not to Reward?

Rewards aren’t as appealing to online shoppers

IRA Assets Continue Strong Growth

Most growth was in mutual funds and self-directed brokerage accounts

Top Business Tech Trends for ’08

Executives have an opportunity to create change rather than merely react to it.

ID Thieves Stealing Large Amounts from CU HELOC Accounts

CUNA Mutual alerts policyholders to scams and offers prevention recommendations

Competition Update: Banks Race to Control Deposits

An industry shakeout focuses attention on size, safety, and local control

An Enterprise-Wide View is Essential to Fight Fraud

Fraud is becoming a cross-channel problem, and so must the solutions

Cyber Crooks Target Social Networks

Consumers might have some unwanted ‘friends’ on social networks

Debit Cards Also Popular with Fraudsters

Both sides are using sophisticated technology

Do You Have a Breach-Response Plan?

Plans must be flexible enough to meet emerging security threats

Competition Update: Banks Turn to Behavioral Science Tools

Being all things to all people is seen as a hindrance to making a profit

Consumer Spending Slowdown to Follow Mortgage Meltdown

Recession or not, families will be forced to tighten their belts

Help Members Manage Gift Card Grief

They’re convenient, but many cards go unused

Subprime Mortgage Problems Were Evident in 2005

Home-price appreciation masked risk as the quality of the market deteriorated

Theft of Personal Data Spikes

Lost records more than triple this year

Competition Update: Banks Deploying Image-Scanning ATMs

Machines can accept up to 30 checks per deposit

Electronic Payments Continue Double-Digit Annual Growth

Growth comes at the expense of paper checks

Fake Checks and Online Fraud Are Thriving

Fraudsters use a quirk in the check-cashing system to bilk consumers

Mobile Adoption Hindered by Security Concerns

Peer-to-peer, bill-pay services attract interest, but financial institutions might need to offer zero liability

This Year’s Crystal Ball Is a Little Gloomy

Financial service executives see a rougher road ahead

Competition Update: Effect of Online Banks May Be Limited

Internet-only banks are serving only a small segment of the market—so far

Health Costs Up, Coverage Down

U.S. employers’ health-benefit cost rise at twice the rate of inflation

HR Execs Say Employees Need Member-Relations Training

But branding initiatives are getting all the funding

ID Thieves Lurk On and Beyond the Net

New findings reveal identity theft perpetrators, victims, and methods

Latino Homeownership Rates on the Rise

But the subprime mortgage crisis threatens recent gains

Companies Take More Control Over 401(k)s

An aggressive approach attempts to secure workers’ retirement