Filene Research Institute

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


Policy

  1. To Do: 2010

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    In my view, there is one document that holds the key to the future of credit unions…drum roll please…the credit union bylaws. Seriously. Issues related to purpose, board governance, field of membership, and cooperative principles are all illuminated there. From an innovation and growth perspective, credit unions must always keep the member in the center.

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    categories » Innovation, Management, Policy

  2. The Credit C.A.R.D. Act: Opportunities and Challenges for Credit Unions

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    How will the 2009 C.A.R.D. Act affect credit unions? The industry-wide return on assets of credit cards plunged from 3.3% in 2006 to 1.4% in 2008 and huge issuers will need to recoup those profits in the new environment. Author Adam Levitin calls the act “the most significant piece of credit card legislation in a generation” and highlights implications and strategic options for credit unions in this report:

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    categories » Consumer/Member Data, Marketing, Consumer Behavior and Market Research, Policy

  3. What People Pay: Deposit Account Fees at Banks and Credit Unions

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    The financial services regulatory environment is in flux. Major proposals are being debated, marked up, and prepared for implementation even as we speak. Credit unions are rightly concerned about the development of a new regulatory agency and the consequences of regulations that would inhibit their ability to serve consumers.One approach credit unions are utilizing to mitigate this risk is illustrating to policymakers how they are different from other players in the financial services industry.

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    categories » Lending, Policy, Pricing