Credit Union Conversations

Credit Union Conversations


Grading the Credit Union Industry

January 23, 2024

How do we REALLY do as an industry? In today's solo episode, Mark looks at the principles of the credit union industry and grades each area to see where we excel and where we can improve.


IN THIS EPISODE:

  • [01:19] Mark will evaluate how credit unions are doing. 
  • [03:43] Voluntary and open membership gets an A+. 
  • [06:18] Democratic member control gets a D. 
  • [09:37] Member economic participation gets an A. 
  • [12:52] Autonomy and independence get a B. 
  • [16:14] Education, training, and information get an A+. 
  • [18:09] Cooperation among cooperatives get B+. 
  • [21:40] Concern for the community gets an Incomplete. 
  • [24:34] Diversity, equity and inclusion get a B-.


KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

  • In the past, you had to be an employee of a particular business to join their credit union. Today there is open membership which allows for competition and better options.
  • Outside influences influence a credit union. Previously, a car loan was obtained from your local credit union. Now the dealership does the loan.
  • The cooperation between credit unions and other organizations like MBFS is a positive for the industry.


RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter Website