Filene Research Institute

Through independent research and innovation programs, the Filene Research Institute explores issues vital to the future of credit unions and consumer finance.


Lending

  1. Macro borrowers, micro loans

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    Say I’m a conscientious citizen of the world and I don’t mind wearing glamour-challenged shoes. Chances are I’ll be intrigued by TOMS Shoes, a California shoe company that donates a pair of its shoes to a third-world child every time I buy a pair for myself.

    categories » CU Tomorrow, Innovation, Lending

  2. Students in, loans out

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    - Alex Alexander, 30 Under 30 member

    As a graduate student, I am absolutely concerned about student loans. Many people are. At a credit union where I used to work as a member service rep, I remember several students and parents came in looking for some type of student loan product.

    Because the CU did not offer student loans, I had to either cross-sell a collateral product to the parents (i.e., home equity) or recommend that the students apply for a Federal Loan through their school, and hope that it would cover their costs.

    categories » 30 Under 30, CU Tomorrow, Lending

  3. Green is good, but no longer revolutionary

    Kudos to Credit Union One of Oklahoma for this news story about its 0.5% rate discount on environmentally friendly vehicles. These kinds of loans represent market awareness and willingness to try something new. If you can be the first in your market to offer a green loan, as Credit Union One apparently is, they can net you some good PR.

    categories » Lending, Philosophy and Values