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What should a credit union consider when evaluating its in-house credit card program strategy?
Five can't-miss data points this week on CreditUnions.com.
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Delinquency in this portfolio remains the highest for any major credit union loan product.
Seattle and Washington, DC, are outperforming national averages in income and housing. But how do these markets fare in credit union membership growth and engagement metrics?
Based on April traffic (and our editorial instincts), here are the top articles and blogs that appeared on CreditUnions.com.
The next big thing in wave-and-pay is here, and credit union adoption is surging as major issuers deploy the NFC plastic.
The first session of the 2019 Credit Card Management Series provides information on the state of the current credit card market with a focus on issues critical to those competing with the largest issuers.
Suncoast Credit Union sparks a cards surge with an automatic, opt-out approach.
One-second transactions, growing adoption, and keeping up with the competition are why credit unions need to get ready to go contactless.
Processors do the back-end lift while credit unions focus on meeting a growing demand.
As lending rolls along at U.S. credit unions, members show their appreciation by making timely payments.
This Valentine’s Day, see how credit unions share the love via rewards programs and other givebacks.
Credit unions must put digital efforts at the forefront of their member acquisition and retention strategies.
An automated credit card approval process at the Oklahoma cooperative makes it easy to deepen the member relationship.
Credit card balances were up 8.4% annually to $59.9 billion as of Sept. 30, 2018.
Consumer education and technology tools are the best defense against offensive fraudsters.
Membership growth, earnings gap, and lending market share — find out how credit unions performed in the third quarter.
Join payment experts from SWBC and Visa for a discussion on how a comprehensive strategy for payment acceptance will impact operations, customer experience, and financial performance.
The movement’s membership base is growing. How are credit unions responding?
How a piece of physical collateral educated members on the benefits of digital wallets and increased card usage at the same time.
Listening, communication, and adaptability can again power success on a new payment rail.
Although credit card penetration rates held steady at 17.3%, credit card loan balances increased 9.1% annually.
Panelists at the Credit Union Summit during PayThink 2018 discuss Zelle, product integration, and staying relevant.
3 takeaways from the Electronic Transactions Association’s TRANSACT Tech DC/ FinTech Policy Forum.
Early adoption and member convenience drive strategy at this Spokane cooperative.
Risk-based pricing helps credit card programs succeed and comply by rewarding low credit risk behaviors and increasing access to the underserved.
Tech-savvy credit union executives and seasoned consultants share strategy and payments plays that deserve a second look.
An informal office poll attempts to identify differences in attitudes on paper payments.
As membership climbs higher, the variety and number of accounts members hold also rises.
Adoption trajectory means it’s time for credit unions to understand and empower the use of dual interface cards.
Balances as well as delinquencies for credit union credit cards were on the rise in the first quarter of the year.
Today, I bank exclusively online. But that might not be the case forever.
Credit card availability and use are on the rise. So are delinquency and charge-off rates.
Five can’t-miss data points this week on CreditUnions.com.
Three percent cash back and $59 a year are among the terms of Alliant Credit Union’s new credit card offering.
Millennials are drawn to credit card issuers that offer technology, maximum rewards, low fees, and social responsibility. How can credit unions position themselves to meet the needs of millennial members?
First quarter lending at credit unions contributed to an expanding balance sheet.
Major cities are rolling out contactless payment solutions for services like mass transit, and contactless cards might come next. Will it be a passing fad or a dominant payment form?
How credit unions can prevent and respond to credit card fraud risks.
An AI demonstration, millennial matters, and whacking fraud moles captured attention on Tuesday at Card Forum 2018.
Credit union credit card mavens dish at Card Forum 2018.
The opening day at Card Forum 2018 reveals insight about artificial intelligence and real human beings that credit unions can better reach out to and engage.
Credit unions in the Mid-Atlantic reported faster MBL growth than credit unions outside the region. In what other areas did these Mid-Atlantic cooperatives excel?
How converting to a new card processing platform turned out terrific results at a California credit union.
Credit card balances, penetration, and usage all grew at credit unions in the last quarter of the year.
Proactive steps and working with the processor can help mitigate the potential damage.
More than 75% of credit union credit card issuers grew at a below-average rate in 2017. How can cooperatives buck this trend in 2018?
One millennial’s quest to understand the hype behind the plastic and find the perfect fit.
The keynote speaker at CULytics uses a personal ancedote to underscore how the future of digital banking isn't just here, it's behind him.
Consumers still write checks by the billions and are likely your most valuable members.
Credit unions are employing different strategies to ensure they offer the right credit card rewards.
Efficiency on the back end and heightened satisfaction on the front end await the credit union that deploys a robust LOS.
Based on January traffic (and our editorial instincts), here are the top articles and blogs that appeared on CreditUnions.com.
Growth percentiles in major lending categories highlight opportunity and success in the credit union loan portfolio.
Aggregate credit card balances outstanding at credit unions reached a record high at third quarter 2017.
The mega bank's new low-balance fee looks like a tax on those who can afford it least. How will consumers, and credit unions, react?
On-the-spot gratification leads to increased activation and use and the opportunity to deepen engagement.
It’s all fun-and-games until the credit card bill comes due.
Charlotte Metro Credit Union manages risk while growing business deposits and loans faster than credit union averages.
Technology Credit Union’s stand-alone card-control app offers members customizable security.
Credit card balances expand at fastest rate in nearly three years.
CreditUnions.com puts a wrap on 2017 with a look back at some of the most popular strategies, insights, and stories generously shared by credit unions.
It may or may not be a bubble, but consumer debt might roil the waters for credit unions and their members. Can machines learn to help with that?
Lessons learned from 2017’s breach of the year.
Find out which states posted the highest credit card penetration with this interactive map.
A layered, comprehensive approach is the key to delivering peace of mind.
A razor-sharp focus on four areas of credit card lending helps credit unions operate a program that supports critical priorities, provides income, and deepens member relationships.
This millennial wants plastic with the right mix of rewards, security, and budgeting tools.
Four can't-miss data points featured this week on CreditUnions.com.
Credit unions in California and Washington offer best practices for responding to breaches and reissuing cards.
This second session of the 2017 Credit Card Management Series helps viewers enable meaningful conversations around program management needs and priorities, and allow card managers to effectively advocate for their program's needs.
Five can't-miss data points featured this week on CreditUnions.com.
MSUFCU looks inward to identify sticky products and save members millions.
Callahan’s millennials weigh in on Debitize, a service that promises to make a credit card act like a debit card.
Experts with the new skill sets are the necessary partners to succeed in today’s competitive environment, delivering knowledge and service.
A focus on growing the credit card portfolio can yield growth among multiple loan touch points.
Credit unions can now offer speedier payments, but even those that don’t offer same-day settlements need to take note.
InFirst FCU’s rewards card takes a move from Costco’s playbook and offers a rich deal.
Do delinquencies and charge-offs suggest the economic recovery faces extinction?
American 1 Credit Union provides a template for raising awareness and working with others to protect members and its own coffers.
At second quarter, annual credit card balance growth has hit its highest rate in the past 11 quarters.
Interest on loans drive the income train, but other revenue streams are steaming along.
Need-to-know information for any credit union launching this card product.
Credit card lending among credit unions is growing and reaching more members. To develop a successful credit card program at your credit union, pay attention to these key metrics.
Credit card lending is on the rise at the nation's credit unions.
New tools add safety and reliability on the road or down the street for consumers making purchases with their credit union credit cards.
Credit unions lent $461.2 billion throughout 2016, surpassing 2015 totals by 12.3%. See how top, middle, and lagging performers differed.
This first session of the 2017 Credit Card Management Series provides information on the state of the current credit card market with a particular emphasis on issues critical to those competing with the largest issuers.
Twenty-eight graphs, charts, and maps that evaluate credit union performance in the fourth quarter of 2016.
How to inject the credit union message into a seamless payments process, and how the merchant response to the EMV liability shift might be emerging were two hot topics at CSCU’s annual conference.
Adopting risk strategies to the changing threats now includes facing down card reward fraud and more.
Callahan & Associates and Jim Minge discuss how Texas Trust determined its goals, laid out its plan, and worked its 5-year strategy.
What the results of a March 2017 study tell us about the four major mobile wallet players.
Credit Union of Southern California moved to a centralized lending environment in summer 2016. Here’s how the credit union built its team and adjusted policies.
The strong lending growth posted by U.S. credit unions in fourth quarter 2016 is an apt wrap-up for a successful year.
Loans, member relationships, and sources of non-interest income. How did credit unions perform in fourth quarter?
How Texas Trust’s approach to lending, technology, and convenience paved the path to asset growth.
Credit unions originated $343.6 billion through third quarter 2016 — that's an all-time record. See which areas contributed to this double-digit year-over-year growth.
Callahan & Associates and Russ Bernardo, director of mortgage lending for Northwest Community Credit Union, discuss how the credit union combines the convenience of a credit card with the stability of a home equity loan.
University Credit Union in Orono, ME, creates new positions and titles to streamline its lending environment.
A monthly collection of Callahan content that, together, addresses a single topic from a variety of perspectives.
Twenty-eight graphs, charts, and maps that evaluate credit union performance in the third quarter of 2016.
A credit card relationship with members enhances the bottom line and deepens overall engagement.
Check out how the credit union loan portfolio fared in the first six months of 2016.
Twenty-eight graphs, charts, and maps that evaluate credit union performance in the second quarter of 2016.
How the Wyoming institution takes in stride the booms and busts of a mineral-based economy.
How Northwest Community Credit Union created a home equity product that offers members the last home loan for which they’ll ever need to apply.
A new multi-channel alert system provides immediate paybacks for CSCU credit card clients.
Credit unions should provide as many mobile solutions to their cardmembers as reasonably possible while watching for new innovations to emerge.
Listerhill Credit Union is among the financial institutions questioning the protective benefits of EMV and asking “what’s the rush?” to shift.
The Iowa credit union used card chip deployment to realign vendor relationships across its payments processes.
In July 2016, Callahan & Associates surveyed 170 credit union executives from 40 states to gain insight into their current and emerging sources of non-interest income.
Credit unions are serving members better than ever before, and these three graphs show just how much ground the cooperative industry has gained.
Loans surpassed $800 billon in the first three months of the year. Here’s how to make sure the industry's growing portfolio stays strong.
This week, CreditUnions.com compares and contrasts the different strategies credit unions are using to build their credit card portfolios.
Twenty-eight graphs, charts, and maps that evaluate credit union performance in the first quarter of 2016.
In this session, credit card expert Tim Kolk explores how to segment a credit union's member base and ensure card products are designed to appeal to individual segments.
PSCU reports “a couple hundred thousand dollars” in saved chargebacks already as the big card brands prepare solutions to perceptions of chip card speed trap.
CAHP Credit Union underpins loan growth by building rapport with peace officers across the Golden State.
One size doesn't fit all. Providing an extensive credit card product suite can enhance members' experiences and optimize portfolio revenue streams.
Credit union lending reached a record high of $796.5 billion in 2015 as cooperatives posted year-over-year growth in every major loan category.
The first session of the 2016 Credit Card Management Series kicks off with an overview of the state of the current credit card market with a particular emphasis on issues critical to those competing with the largest issuers.
A break down of the industry’s financial performance and impact in fourth quarter 2015.
A debit payback program at Warren FCU builds member interest and non-interest income.
The NCAA tournament is down to the Final Four, and regional credit union performance data from Callahan & Associates has predicted the winner.
Six months after the liability shift for non-chip cards, the dust is far from settled over EMV implementation, availability, and effectiveness.
By turning a longstanding credit model on its head, BECU repriced $100 million in loans in 2015.
Learning culture, adaptive underwriting, minimizing disruptions are all part of a successful, profitable card operation.
Before year-end data closes the books on 2015, take a look at these successes in the credit union loan portfolio.
This week, CreditUnions.com profiles a number of credit unions that are making lending more convenient for members.
With more than 85% of the industry reporting in Callahan & Associates’ FirstLook Program, early data trends suggest another quarter of double-digit loan growth.
A break down of the industry’s financial performance and impact in third quarter 2015.
Designing and properly controlling a credit card program is only worth it if this leads to developing an action oriented and high ROI marketing plan for the business.
Credit card programs are obviously different from all other loan products: they provide open and available credit lines for many years, to be drawn at the cardholder’s discretion, while being completely unsecured.
If one area of credit card product design has changed more than any other over the past few years, it is most certainly the structure and value of loyalty and rewards programs.
The session will include a tutorial on how to develop a profit and loss statement as well as instruction on how to identify what information you need and where to find it.
Credit unions, processors say it’s too early to agree with gloomy take on digital wallet’s performance.
What are common compliance pitfalls a credit union can fall into?
As the business model of credit unions evolves, leaders must decide how to allocate resources and where to invest time, money, and people.
There are three broad credit card management options that carry their own advantages and considerations.
My plastic is now from a big bank, and that might matter to credit unions.
First Tech goes first in facial authentication pilot with MasterCard.
How the right data analytics can empower credit unions to target members with offers that offer timeliness and real value.
A key to success with a credit card program is a strong cardmember lifecycle marketing strategy.
Credit union card processors say conversion process is well underway, and don’t call it a deadline.
Comprehensive, dynamic practices and processes bring card holder and issuer together to combat growing fraud threat.
A Virginia credit union uses card analytics and a new app to catch members’ interest.
Lending activity at America’s credit unions suggests members are making cooperatives their financial institution of choice.
Tracking firm reports a decline in consumer use while credit union processors say they’re seeing increasing adoption.
A break down of the industry’s financial performance and impact in 1Q 2015.
Opportunity, challenges seen in same-day settlement as Fed calls for comments on its plan to adopt new NACHA rules.
The Indiana credit union increased auto loans 39% over last year.
By implementing some best practices below, your credit union can be well prepared to respond to inevitable fraud breaches in the years ahead.
What do dogs, iTunes, and road trips have to do with credit unions? More than you might think.
Retailer’s Apple Pay play leads to predictions of competitor’s death that some say are premature.
A break down of the industry’s financial performance and impact in 4Q 2014.
No fraud, no hurry for credit unions are takeaways from the latest scuttle on the Apple Pay watch.
Explore the many ways to run a successful card program. Credit, debit, prepaids, rewards, segmentation, industry data, and more — this week on CreditUnions.com.
Emerging technology is addressing back-end automation and front-end security within the credit union walls.
Effective underwriting facilitates two primary benefits: driving profitable loan growth and engaging members.
What credit unions stood out for their spectacular credit card growth as of Dec. 31?
This week, CreditUnions.com offers practices, lessons, and educational resources for the men and women charged with managing the financial risks of their credit unions — the CFOs.
The $6 billion credit union’s turnkey loan participation model helps two small credit unions get back in the cards game.
Tim Kolk leads the introductory session of a management school for credit union card programs in 2015.
Non-real estate lending picks up at the Indiana credit union.
How NorthCountry FCU maximizes its investment in employees, members, and community.
Credit card programs need constant attention to remain engaging and competitive.
Retailers, interchange beneficiaries, and merchants all want to circumvent the card networks.
Adoption of BCU’s Signature credit card has increased nearly 50% year-over-year. Learn how and why the Illinois cooperative is moving more card relationships to this product.
Merchant discounts helped this Oregon credit union turn its cards into a must-have shopping accessory for state consumers.
A lower rate for in-state credit card purchases helps VSECU boost its product usage and gives members a grassroots outlet for activism.
This week, CreditUnions.com spotlights payments strategies designed to reward loyal and community-minded members.
Four lessons from Ent and Numerica credit unions on how to run a successful member business credit card.
When indirect lending margins at Orange County’s Credit Union started to shrink, the $1.2 billion cooperative injected life into its auto portfolio with a new focus, a fresh marketing campaign, and different metrics.
A stronger economy, more reserved regulatory environment, and ever-growing public awareness are all good signs for credit union members and the nation in 2015.
A break down of the industry’s financial performance and impact in 3Q 2014.
The Apple launch and — some say — subsequent holiday fizzle helps make mobile a dominating subject in payments talk this year.
Leading vendor execs in the credit union space say economic growth and growing competition will make for an interesting next year.
Which loan strategies resonated with CreditUnions.com readers this year? Find out in this top 10 countdown.
IT security experts see attacks ranging from card breaches to HELOC account wire fraud in the year ahead. Some prevention tips are included.
Credit unions need not fear EMV "liability shift day" but it's time to start thinking about when to leave magnetic stripes behind.
Apple Pay’s impact on the market, what credit unions should consider when setting a mobile payments strategy, and benefits of an app-based mobile solutions with strong core systems integration.
The California credit union uses a range of products to help members avoid payday lenders and build their credit.
This northern Minnesota financial co-op boosted its consumer lending almost four times higher in the first nine months of 2014.
Apple Pay has completely changed the conversation around mobile payments, and credit unions better keep an eye on … PayPal. Oh, and Android users still outnumber iPhone devotees.
A break down of the industry’s financial performance and impact in 2Q 2014.
Credit unions have increased their credit card market share nearly 50% since the recession. What can you learn from the industry’s notable performers?
As of the third quarter, the Starbucks payment app has nearly 12 million active monthly users.
Reduced fraud costs and member satisfaction are leading reasons to offer EMV cards ahead of the October 2015 liability shift deadline.
Big data presents great opportunity for targeting and incentivizing members with card offers.
How EMV, smartphones, and tokenization are changing the customer experience.
Tim Kolk of TRK Advisors discusses credit card program reporting strategies in this Credit Card Management School webinar.
Credit unions are posting impressive results in credit card numbers, balances, and market share.
A break down of the industry’s financial performance and impact in 1Q 2014.
Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union discusses its memberships need for EMV cards and the steps it took to satisfy those needs.
Virginia Credit Union discusses the process it recently went through to convert its credit card portfolio to EMV.
The four areas through which credit unions can and must connect to the next generation
Auto and credit card loans lead the way.
Lifecycle stage and peer group influence card members, so issuers should leverage appropriate marketing tactics that cater to the representative generation.
Lending, originations, revenue, and membership all show how the state’s financial cooperatives have positioned themselves for success this year.
Financial Partners Credit Union discusses the challenges of re-launching a credit card program after selling its portfolio a decade ago.
Do your members consider their credit card an emergency loan product or a smart spending tool?
The Creditunions.com team descended on CUNA's GAC this week, taking notes at lectures and breakout sessions for those of you who couldn't attend. Here are a few highlights from five days in credit union wonderland.
How Wright-Patt Credit Union reorganized in the face of a changing payments landscape.
Callahan’ FirstLook credit unions closed out 2013 with the highest credit card penetration and credit card loan growth since the recession began.
Young members are shying away from credit cards. Here’s why winning them back requires looking beyond the product itself.
How Purdue Federal Credit Union re-engineered its credit card portfolio.
Credit unions are making plans to roll out new credit cards with EMV chip technology in advance of the shift of fraud liability in 2015.
Advice from two executives on making a card portfolio part of your core business.
Luck only lasts so long. That's why every credit union needs a long-term roadmap for this crucial area of its business.
An at-a-glance look at credit card penetration, average balance, outstanding balances, and more.
This week, CreditUnions.com, is all about credit cards — who has them, who wants them, and how to make them a successful part of your core business model.
Follow these rules to transform card-related challenges into institutional opportunities.
Life often hands credit unions new regulations and other lemons. Yet the cooperative system has an impressive track record of clearing these obstacles or turning them into stepping stones for new growth.
The nation’s 6,753 credit unions posted strong financials in the third quarter, making loans at a record pace and briskly growing membership.
Third quarter performance data highlights opportunities and success in the credit union industry.
Five steps that separate the top performers and earners from the also-rans.
What effects does a robust credit card portfolio have on a credit union's financial performance?
As more countries adopt chip technology in lieu of magnetic stripes, one U.S. credit union takes the plunge and changes its card technology.
An Alaskan credit union boosts credit card market penetration from an unlikely source — auto loans.
As consumers regain confidence, auto and other consumer lending categories are surging.
When considering an effective pricing strategy, there are many variables credit unions need to address to ensure a safe and effective return.
Niche lending helps credit unions build a loyal following while boosting portfolio values.
With lower fees, better capabilities, and some regulatory advantages, today’s prepaid options resonate with a range of financial institutions and consumers.
Credit unions can fuel growth by leveraging these key fundamentals.
Best practices for balancing financial dynamics, product selection, underwriting flexibility, and the business population.
Credit unions have an opportunity to plant new payment strategy seeds and watch them grow.
A Midwest credit union branch puts OBM principles to work in the field.
Potential rewards and risks in credit card affinity programs.
University of Iowa Community Credit Union reported 22.3% in loan growth in the third quarter with a business model that tracks efficiency “almost fanatically.”
As credit union and bank credit risk levels draw closer, credit unions must use better analytics to maintain their advantage over banks.
Growth in mortgages and consumer loans herald record 2012.
In an environment in which consumers are looking for a better way, credit unions are standing apart.
New auto loan balances were up nearly 1% in 2Q 2012, reversing an 18-month trend, and the annual growth rate in the credit card portfolio more than doubled to 4.7%
Keep credit card management skills up-to-date as competitive risks increase.
Optimize traditional payment revenues now, while preparing to embrace new strategies and technology tomorrow.
Credit unions boost entrepreneurialism through filling the demand for small business loans.
A diverse mix of loan products has enabled Members 1st Federal Credit Union to post impressive growth numbers while providing for a community with differing needs.
Vermont State Employees Credit Union developed a signature Visa card with incentives for shopping in the community.
Consumers without credit histories present credit unions with opportunities to lend credit cards and teach healthy plastic habits.
Now is the right time to begin embracing this new payment standard.
Credit unions start taking the first steps toward implementation.
Credit unions should consider the benefits and pitfalls of each strategy when managing their card portfolio.
Dominion Credit Union believes contactless payments will be a necessity for future members, but it is taking innovation one step at a time.
Instant issuance card programs are increasing physical card activation, usage, and member satisfaction.
New payment technology embraces globalization to make transactions safe.
A new payment technology embraces globalization to make international and domestic transactions safe and stress free.
The financial industry is moving toward compliance with card-based chip and pin technology.
Pentagon FCU and SECU of North Carolina work with regulators to create transparent, member-friendly documents.
An analysis of credit unions with and without credit card portfolios shows key differences in financial returns and income.
An analysis of credit card portfolio profitability profiles.
Target promotions to summer travelers to increase credit card penetration.
Credit card penetration, use, and average balance have all risen at credit unions over the past year.
The Maryland & DC Credit Union Association annual conference offered a platform for exchange of strategic ideas.
Credit unions must adapt to changing risk environments as they shore up their credit card portfolios.
Keep your credit card management skills up-to-date as competitive risks are increasing.
Educators Credit Union is now aiming to help members save $30 million in 2012 after exceeding its $20 million goal.
Consumers are paying credit cards bills before their mortgages, but will the pattern continue?
The credit card market has returned to stability, but that’s not necessarily a good thing for credit unions’ growth.
Efficient and cost-effective approaches can help shield credit unions from evolving fraud trends.
An article in the Los Angeles Times provides a cautionary lesson for credit unions.
Jim Norris, CEO of Montgomery County Employees FCU, explains how the credit union is securing double-digit growth in its credit card portfolio.
It seems no matter where payments technology goes, getting consumers to adopt it comes down to personal preference, habits. I prefer credit. My (younger) colleagues don't.
Growing a credit card program is easy in this environment; implementing a program scorecard allows for prudent and profitable growth.
Montgomery County Employees Federal Credit Union’s balance transfer promotions have drawn 19.0% 12-month credit card loan growth.
Designing and marketing an attractive credit card can provide opportunities to cross-sell other products.
Consumer spending is showing signs of rebounding and credit cards are re-emerging as one of the payment vehicles of choice.
Credit unions can expect credit cards to remain a crucial piece of their portfolio in the year ahead, but they must be ready to manage them properly.
Scrutinize the different credit card behaviors in your members to better manage your credit card portfolio risk.
Richard Cordray, the newly appointed director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, wants consumers to receive fair treatment with credit cards and other financial products.
Randolph-Brooks gives its members 15 reasons to make the credit union their primary financial institution.
Foster growth and protect your returns by focusing on marketing, product development and underwriting approaches.
Credit unions can cautiously plan for a drop in late payments on home loans and credit cards by mid-2012, but not before a slight uptick.
As the government moves toward ensuring credit card agreements are clear to customers, credit unions can voluntarily do the same.
How can financial institutions better understand and address long-term impersonation?
United Federal Credit Union has embraced instant issuance for today and is well prepared for the next round of card development.
A Loan Saver application that reveals savings in converting to a Belvoir Federal Credit Union loan has already attracted several refis.
Three technology trends could breathe new life into traditional plastic-based payments.
Managing a credit card program is difficult, but it can be very rewarding.
Fewer Americans were delinquent paying their credit card bills last month, a recent report says. It’s a trend credit unions are noting.
To generate strong credit card performance, cooperatives must understand what members value. One way to show you know? Affinity cards.
Credit unions are generating solutions that boost local economies.
Is your credit union equipped to attract, educate, and serve today's young adults?
Credit cards are making a slow comeback, and knowing what the consumer wants is one key to success.
Look for shared values and a commitment to advocacy when selecting affinity card partnerships.
Balance reward and risk to manage your credit card portfolio.
Are two brands better than one?
When it comes to securing card loyalty, the value created through adopting EMV puts credit unions at the top of the wallet.
How will your membership be banking in 2011 and beyond?
Credit unions can find a “tremendous pricing opportunity” under the proposed Durbin Amendment, says one industry expert.
Blockbuster is closing its stores, maybe credit card debt isn’t all that bad, and you might want to unplug the toaster.
Credit card search services could point more consumers to credit union products when a new banking regulation, the Durbin Amendment, takes effect this summer.
A credit union has a lot to consider when deciding whether to sell its credit card portfolio.
10 credit union leaders in credit card penetration.
The industry responded to member need in 2010 and positioned itself for the tremendous opportunity for the coming year.
Purdue Federal procures longer lasting financial relationships with its affinity card product.
Credit cards foster loyalty and build a strong loan portfolio. Here are the 4Q10 leaders in credit card penetration.
Credit cards, efficient cars, and unemployment goals are all in the news. Let's see what they mean for cooperatives.
Five credit programs that unite members around a common bond.
Credit unions use profitability management to enhance membership value.
As 2010 comes to a close, economic releases are revealing surprising strength in the U.S. economy.
Credit unions that accept debit and credit payments on loan balances capitalize on purchasing trends and maximize call center value.
The holiday season saw consumers shift away from credit card spending. What does that mean for credit unions?
In 2002, a Portland credit union undertook a dramatic reorientation with a new name to match. Where is it now?
This week, the sisters of reality TV added financial services to their name brand.
Credit card regulations present hurdles on the road to fiscal freedom.
How you make the decision to sell a credit card portfolio determines the transaction’s success.
To recapture members' card balances, think outside the promotion box.
A credit card account can enhance loan portfolios and member relations.
If a credit union conveys the value of a credit card to members, the level of credit card penetration will reflect the work.
Do credit card rates affect member usage?
Credit card portfolio sales demand proper evaluation to ensure a positive outcome.
Ten credit unions that, despite legislative challenges, grew their credit card portfolio by almost $71 million.
Consumers are ready to spend. How can you make sure your credit union is their financial institution of choice?
Working in niches, growing organically, fostering relationships, and emphasizing safety and soundness have helped this two-branch credit union thrive in the Southern California market.
Millennial borrowers increasingly use cards to make purchases and payments, so evaluate solutions that capitalize on that trend without increasing your risk and regulatory burden.
Credit cards are missing the mark in loyalty and rewards.
A lesson from the world of social media.
Credit card balances are up 6.7% from June 2009.
As member-owned financial cooperatives, credit unions are in the position to look beyond a set of numbers to determine the true risk of its credit seekers.
From deciding to re-enter the market, realistically evaluating the profitability of your portfolio or considering offering rewards there’s something here for nearly every card program.
It might be tempting to view profitability reporting as something that only the CFO and CEO need to care about, but reliable profitability measurement benefits the entire member base.
For one Ohio-based credit union, putting members first is more than a motto. It's a commitment that the credit union's success and future is tethered to that of the community it calls home.
A look at Bank of America and the credit union system during the Great Recession.
The market for lending is changing but don't let big shakeups overshadow the small, crucial steps that will make or break your credit union's ultimate success. Credit union consultant Chris Oldag shares best practices for all aspects of the modern market.
As interest rates hamper loan yields, credit cards are becoming a vital source of income and a crucial component in institutional lending strategies.
Online merchants promote alternative payment options to reduce interchange expense, risk exposure, and compliance hassles. What impact do alternative payments have on your financial institution?
Gen Y members are stereotyped as being independent, tech savvy, and narcissist. How can credit unions take advantage of these supposed personality traits?
After a student banker finds herself in the midst of credit card troubles she seeks credit union alternatives on her road to financial recovery.
My bank cancelled my credit card and destroyed my credit score with repeated inquires. Now it won’t answer any of my questions about my account or its action. I’m looking for answers, and a credit union solution, to help me on my road to financial recovery.
Sticking to its roots kept this New Jersey credit union standing firm in uncertain times.
The ability to make electronic payments creates an efficient exchange of goods and services, which will help the recovery of global economies this year and beyond.
Credit unions can hold their heads high in 2010 and beyond.
Opportunity for solid credit card portfolio growth is here. How can your program better utilize increased demand while avoiding the economic and asset quality pitfalls that sabotage others?
Callahan is gearing up to bring you in-depth insight into the industry’s biggest advancements.
The passage of the financial reform bill will have a lasting effect on credit unions.
The United Nations Federal Credit Union heeds jet-setting members’ needs in adopting smartcard technology.
Callahan & Associates asks credit card industry expert Tim Kolk about how credit unions can understand, influence, and change the factors driving credit card program profitability.
Callahan’s Internet Strategy Consortium, a shared cost research group for credit unions, has announced plans to investigate member preferences for debit and credit in their next online member survey, scheduled to launch in May 2010.
Credit card profitability is under more pressure than ever, yet many credit unions don’t accurately report their program’s contribution to the bottom line.
As the economy picks up, so too will loan demand. Be ready to meet members’ needs with a diversified portfolio.
A combination of economic forces and regulatory changes has created the perfect storm for credit card issuers, resulting in seriously impaired profitability.
While firms may estimate large consumer and business savings with interchange regulation, credit union members may see the value of their membership decline with lost institutional income.
Callahan’s year end non-interest income survey provides a snap shot of the industry before Reg E changes take effect.
Converting opportunity into results is an industry challenge for 2010.
Looking for higher yields? Consider your card portfolio.
A marketing campaign focused on new low rates and balance transfer opportunities resonates with consumers looking to switch their primary credit card relationship in the wake of the CARD Act.
Even though many payday borrowers have enough unused credit on their credit cards to cover the amount of the payday loan, they still end of choosing the more costly option.
Wired magazine covers the history of today's payment networks while looking ahead to a future that changes the way people pay one another. Tweet me the money?
Regulation E and potential interchange legislation are looming, but credit unions are choosing to take an optimistic approach to 2010.
Pennsylvania State Employees CU has one of the best credit card programs in the nation. With penetration at 40% and growth in balances last year at 23%, members are demonstrating they see the value in PSECU’s program above the programs of banks and other institutions.
Understanding the changing landscape of credit cards is critical for growing a prudent, profitable program.
New studies and credit issuer backlash against CARD Act regulations highlight just how plastic American consumers are.
A focus on low rates and balance transfer opportunities resonates with consumers looking to switch their credit card relationship in the wake of the CARD Act.
Simple credit cards, with member-friendly features and appropriate pricing, have broad appeal in the market today. If your credit union sold its portfolio, it might be time to consider issuing credit cards again.
Another NYT article the same day shown light on another source of income—foreign transaction fees of up to 3 percent when a merchant processes your card overseas. NYT coverage.
Today’s the day. Today, the most heinous bank practices with regard to credit cards are outlawed. So, what are the big banks doing? NYT coverage.
From all indications Citi is not subject to the CARD Act. They are improving practices for the benefit of their customers.
Public discussion has interwoven two themes over the past few weeks: The U.S. needs jobs, and credit unions need loans.
American Express is targeting Gen Y with a newly-branded charge card called Zync. Will young folks fall for it?
Affinity programs offer another way for credit unions to connect with the market.
Affinity programs appeal to a target audience, but even focused audiences have differing financial preferences. The success of any affinity program is determined as much by what the product is as who the audience is.
Asset quality in the card portfolio is stabilizing.
APL FCU in Maryland leveraged the CARD Act to teach their members about responsible credit card practices. They’ve seen new outstanding card balances triple from the year prior.
For all the hoopla in the press, the legislative grandstanding for consumer groups, and the finger pointing at financial institutions about the abuses of overdraft processing services, it still comes down to one simple idea.
After a lengthy re-scoring process of 35,000 credit card holders, SAFE Credit Union used their service bureau's Trigger Alerts to help manage the process.
Vermont State Employees Credit Union ($440M, Montpelier, VT) is always looking to protect their members from various forms of fraud, without inconveniencing them.
Collections pratices are not a topic that credit unions typically get excited to talk about, but collections strategies are necessary especially in the recent economic downturn.
Credit unions find ways to meet member needs as many consumers face tight credit conditions.
California and Texas, two of the largest credit union states, are forerunners of national trends. By analyzing these two states, we can develop a framework to help us better understand national trends moving forward.
In the midst of a tremulous credit card market, credit union card portfolios experience solid growth.
APL found that focusing on a very straightforward, basic card offering can pay big dividends in this type of economic environment.
The CARD Act restructured terms, reduced limits, increased rates and fees for credit cards. Gene Foley talks about the opportunity for credit unions in this market.
Beyond standard debit and credit rewards, Envision Credit Union has seen success by allowing members to aggregate rewards points throughout their household.
Consumers to continue to change the ways in which they pay for purchases with decreasing cash and increasing card payment.
Increased balances and member usage resulted in year over year market share growth.
One of the major issues impacting credit unions is the increased prevalence of fraud within expanding card portfolios.
Recent headlines regarding questionable credit card company billing practices provide a great opportunity for credit unions, most of whom have consumer-friendly practices already in place.
What Gen Y wants in a credit union credit card program?
Average credit card penetration at credit union through the end of 2008 was 14.3%. This means that the vast majority of creidt union members are not using their credit union's credit card.
With member and market demand for debit and crdit cards increasing, credit unions need to understand the dynamics of their card portfolios to predict members' future needs. These trends, combined with added pressure on the bottom line, make interchange income a crucial component of credit union revenue.
Expansion of Total Credit Card Lines: Credit Unions vs. Banks
Good times breed routine evaluations for efficiency gains – tough times mandate efficiency improvements as a life-line. What is your credit union doing? Are you looking at technology to improve your back office operations?
Another governmentally-imposed tsunami has washed ashore! Legislation rolls in as quickly as ocean waves, drowning its victims under a storm-tossed sea of churning regulations.
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Negative headlines about financial institutions are commonplace in our current national climate, but one issue in particular has risen above the din in the last few months.
The bill's reach is much greater than credit cards; all open end lines of credit are affected. The first implementation date driving the widespread concern is the August 20th initial compliance deadline for providing a 21 day notice for a periodic payment.
With the departure of the National Arbitration Forum and the American Arbitration Association, credit unions have an opportunity to emphasize their member-friendly credit card practices.
As the economy continues to worsen, even credit unions in relatively better-faring parts of the country need to consider the potential financial management changes their members may be making.
The 2007 Electronic Payments Study takes a look at the emerging payments technology affecting the financial services industry and what lessons credit unions can learn from the big players.
Young adulthood is marked with some life-changing transitions, resulting in financial and emotional stress for both parents and youth. Understanding these transitions will help credit unions more effectively serve their younger members.
Is your lending program "fair" to students? With college costs growing at more than twice the rate of inflation, students are increasingly turning to cards as a source of funding for education.
More students are using credit cards to cover college-related expenses, according to a 2009 study from Sallie Mae.
As industry players await a GAO study on interchange fees commissioned via the recently passed Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights (HR 627), credit unions are carefully watching to see what aspects of proposed legislation are likely to be enacted in the 111th Congress.
Keeping one step ahead of credit card fraudsters is a priority objective at Vermont State Employees Credit Union. Here’s how the Montpelier credit union collaborated with card processor TMG to protect its 30,000 cardholding members.
In the third installment of the CYouth Web Series, we explore the many pitfalls to avoid when using credit cards.