The sports analysts at Callahan & Associates wrap up March Madness with predictions based on credit union performance data. Which team will reign supreme?

Lenders reported a record year for originations in 2021 despite rising asset prices and rates increases, both of which were substantively driven by inflationary pressures.

Vehicles are selling, but credit unions must consider the risks of financing less reliable used cars at all-time-high prices.

In today’s environment, credit unions will need to focus on modernizing their collection operations.

First mortgage and used auto dominate the loan portfolio, but commercial lending is hitting an all-time high.

Credit union success on the balance sheet and income statement in the third quarter is creating new opportunities for future impact.

Collections strategies should consider the outsourcing of early stage delinquency to experience the cost savings and compliant expertise as the delinquency rate remains uncertain.

The lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic — and the national economic response to it — linger on credit union financial statements.

Mortgage originations set a quarterly record while consumer lending rebounded in the fourth quarter of 2020. Further economic reopening brings optimism, but the industry must monitor pandemic-related declines in asset quality.

The financial constraints credit unions faced in 2020 provide insights for how to move forward in the coming year.