The New York Minute: Silent Auction Donations & CU Honors

This week’s New York Minute is full of credit union honors, from organization-wide recognitions to individual honors. But first, EXCEL 26 Silent Auction donations are now being accepted! Get the latest industry news in our weekly blog.

EXCEL 26: Now Accepting Silent Auction Donations!

The EXCEL 26 Silent Auction is back, and the Association is now accepting donations! Each year, this highly anticipated event draws hundreds of Convention attendees who gather to bid on unique items while supporting a meaningful cause.

All proceeds from the Silent Auction benefit the New York Credit Union Foundation, helping fund programs that strengthen financial well-being and support credit unions and their communities across the state.

Event Details
Friday, June 12
5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
The Saratoga Hilton Main Lobby/Gallery

Thanks to the generosity of credit unions, exhibitors, and attendees, auction tables are typically filled with exciting items such as:

  • Vacation and travel packages
  • Sporting event and theater tickets
  • Electronics and home technology
  • Gift baskets and jewelry
  • Sporting equipment and more

To participate, donors can submit the Silent Auction Donor Form and either mail their item to the Association by May 29 or hand-deliver it at the EXCEL registration area by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 11. Cash donations are also welcome if you’d prefer the Association purchase an item on your behalf.

Your contribution helps make this fun, competitive, and charitable event a highlight of the Convention each year!

New York Credit Union Leaders Named to i3 Innovation Program

Congratulations to the New York credit union leaders who have been selected for Wave 22 of the highly competitive i3 Innovation Program from the Filene Research Institute.

The i3 program is a one-year leadership and innovation experience that brings together forward-thinking professionals from across the country to tackle some of the industry’s most pressing challenges. Rather than traditional coursework, participants collaborate in cross-functional teams to develop real solutions for the future of credit unions.

Among the 24 professionals selected nationwide, four leaders from New York earned a spot in the new cohort:

Wave 22 will begin its innovation journey at EDGE 2026 in Dallas, TX (May 11-14) and will ultimately present its prototypes and solutions at Filene’s big.bright.minds. conference in December. Join us in congratulating the cohort for being included in this innovative program!

FourLeaf FCU Named One of America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces by Newsweek

Join us in celebrating FourLeaf Federal Credit Union for being named one of America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces for Culture, Belonging & Community in 2026 by Newsweek.

The ranking highlights employers across the country that foster inclusive workplace environments where employees feel valued, connected, and supported. The recognition focuses specifically on midsize companies with 500 to 1,000 employees, organizations that often combine the strong culture of smaller workplaces with the resources and stability of larger companies.

The ranking evaluated employers across 120 key performance indicators, including:

  • Working environment
  • Culture and belonging
  • Compensation and benefits
  • Work-life balance
  • Career progression and training
  • Overall company culture

FourLeaf has built a workplace designed to support its team members through initiatives such as remote work opportunities, employee resource groups, social clubs, and professional development programs.

This recognition highlights the credit union’s commitment to building a workplace where employees can collaborate, grow, and thrive while serving members and communities.

Nicole Tompkins of Mid-Hudson Valley FCU Named to Hudson Valley 40 Under 40

Congratulations to Nicole Tompkins of Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, who has been recognized as one of the Hudson Valley’s Top 40 Under 40 by the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Each year, the Chamber honors 40 exceptional leaders under the age of 40 who demonstrate strong professional achievements and a deep commitment to improving their communities across the Hudson Valley. Honorees are selected through a merit-based nomination process, evaluated independently by a panel of former recipients.

The program highlights emerging leaders who are helping shape the future of the region’s businesses, nonprofits, and communities. Tompkins’ recognition reflects the ongoing contributions of credit union professionals who embody the “people helping people” philosophy while strengthening the communities they serve.

Michael Savino of Municipal CU Named to City & State New York’s Who’s Who in Affordable Housing

Congratulations to Michael Savino of Municipal Credit Union, who has been named to Who’s Who in Affordable Housing by City & State New York.

The inaugural list recognizes leaders across government, nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, and financial institutions who are working to address New York’s growing housing affordability crisis.

Since joining Municipal Credit Union in 2023, Savino has played a key role in expanding the credit union’s efforts to support first-time homebuyers and housing stability. His work includes:

  • Expanding affordable mortgage and lending tools
  • Promoting financial education on homeownership and credit recovery
  • Connecting members with critical housing assistance programs

In 2025 alone, Savino’s team helped members secure more than $400,000 in housing grants, with over $650,000 already secured for 2026.

Savino also regularly speaks in the media about mortgage rates, credit rebuilding, and practical homebuying decisions, helping New Yorkers better understand the path to homeownership. As a board member of the MCU Foundation, he also supports grantmaking that strengthens housing stability and community development across New York City.


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The New York Minute: Recapping America’s Credit Unions GAC & More!

This week in our blog, we’re sharing highlights from the 2026 America’s Credit Unions’ Government Affairs Conference. Plus, the Association President & CEO’s recent honor, registration deadlines for the Emerging Credit Union Leaders Conference Series, and more! Get this week’s credit union news in our New York Minute blog.

America’s Credit Unions’ GAC 2026 Events & Highlights

New York’s credit unions showed up in a big way at the 2026 Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, D.C., with a record 160+ attendees representing our state.

The following New York credit unions attended the conference and represented our state powerfully:

New York’s credit unions kicked off the conference on Sunday night with the “Let’s Connect New York” Reception, where credit union leaders and advocates gathered for cocktails, small bites, and meaningful conversation before heading to Capitol Hill. The energy set the tone for a strong week of advocacy.

Monday morning featured a New York CEO Breakfast fireside chat between Association Chief Advocacy Officer Amy Kramer and America’s Credit Unions Senior VP of Advocacy Greg Mesack. The Opening Flag Ceremony followed, with Association President & CEO William J. Mellin and Association Board Chair Eric Hepkins proudly representing New York.

During the Legislative Briefing Luncheon, opening remarks were delivered by Association Chief Operating Officer Chris Pajak, followed by a panel featuring Association Chief Advocacy Officer Amy Kramer, Association Vice President of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Jeremy Newman, and America’s Credit Unions Head of Legislative Advocacy Brad Thaler.

Tuesday and Wednesday were dedicated to Hill visits, as New York advocates met directly with lawmakers to promote the credit union mission and advocate for pro-credit union policy.

Thank you to the following lawmakers for meeting with our members:

Check out photos from the event:

Association President & CEO William J. Mellin Honored with Farley League Leadership Award

NYCUA President & CEO WIlliam Mellin accepting an award from the AACUL

The American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL) has recognized William J. Mellin, Association President & CEO, with the prestigious 2026 Eugene H. Farley League Leadership Award.

This national honor celebrates a league president who demonstrates visionary leadership at the state and national levels, strong organizational and financial performance, commitment to cooperation across the credit union system, and integrity, purpose-driven service.

Mellin, who began his tenure with the Association 32 years ago and has served as President & CEO since 2000, oversees the Association and its affiliated entities, including OwnersChoice Funding, UsNet Shared Branching, and the New York Credit Union Foundation.

Under his leadership, the Association has continued advancing the credit union mission statewide: advocating, educating, and uniting credit unions that collectively serve 7 million members and hold more than $130 billion in assets.

Congratulations to Bill on this well-deserved national recognition!

Act Now: Register for Elevating Credit Union Leaders Conference

Purple and yellow graphic background with text "ELEVATING CREDIT UNION LEADERS: TRANSFORMING MANAGERS INTO VISIONARY LEADERS"

Time is running out! The deadline to register for the Elevating Credit Union Leaders Conference Series is Wednesday, March 11.

Virtual sessions take place on March 18, July 14, and December 2, while an in-person session will be at the Crowne Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel on October 7.

Designed specifically for credit union professionals and ideal for managers, supervisors, young professionals, and emerging leaders, this series helps participants:

  • Evolve from managers to mentors
  • Overcome leadership challenges
  • Strengthen strategic communication skills
  • Develop the mindset of influential leaders

Featured speakers include Mark Arnold, Founder & CEO, and Shawn Temple, Chief Strategy Officer of On the Mark Strategies. This program is your opportunity to expand your impact within your credit union!

Don’t wait! Secure your spot before March 11.

TruStage® to Issue Stablecoin for Credit Unions

TruStage logo

TruStage has announced plans to launch TruStage Stablecoin (TSDA), a fully reserved U.S. dollar stablecoin designed specifically for credit unions. TSDA aims to modernize digital payment infrastructure for credit unions worldwide that work with TruStage.

Developed in collaboration with Block Time Financial, the initiative will:

  • Maintain 1:1 cash backing for stability
  • Support settlements and disbursements
  • Enable faster loan funding
  • Improve peer-to-peer and cross-border payments
  • Reduce transaction friction and costs

With growing regulatory clarity around stablecoins, this pilot program is launching in the first half of 2026 and represents a significant development for community-based financial institutions.

NY Attorney General Issues Warning for ‘Pig Butchering’ Scams

Headshot of New York Attorney General Letitia JAmes
WBLS, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Office of the New York Attorney General has issued a consumer alert warning New Yorkers about increasingly sophisticated “pig butchering” scams.

These schemes typically begin on social media, dating apps, or unsolicited texts and move to encrypted platforms like WeChat or WhatsApp. The goal of these scammers is to build trust through fake personal or professional relationships and introduce fraudulent investment opportunities, often in cryptocurrency. Victims are shown fabricated account gains before being asked to deposit substantial sums. Eventually, withdrawals are blocked, and scammers disappear.

Red flags include:

  • Requests for secrecy
  • Pressure to invest quickly
  • Demands to wire money or use Bitcoin ATMs
  • Interference when banks question transactions

Attorney General James urges New Yorkers to research investment offers, avoid irreversible payment methods, consult trusted advisors, and report suspected scams. Victims can file a complaint online or call 1-800-771-7755.

Staying vigilant protects both individuals and the communities we serve.


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The New York Minute: Lending School, Donations, & More

In this week’s New York Minute, don’t miss your chance to attend one of our two Lending School sessions for 2026! Then, see service expansions, community support, and career developments from credit unions across the state. Get the latest industry news in our weekly blog!

Register Today: Lending School in Albany & Buffalo!

Graphic that says "New York Credit Union Association
Lending School"

Strengthen your consumer lending expertise at this one-day, strategy-driven Lending School designed for front-line lenders and lending leadership.

This immersive program focuses on:

  • Consumer loan interviewing and decisioning
  • Risk assessment and responsible underwriting
  • Consultative, member-focused sales conversations
  • Evaluating collateral and identifying underwriting pitfalls
  • FICO education and practical credit-improvement strategies
  • Early bankruptcy indicators and higher-risk loan considerations
  • Increasing ancillary product sales in a competitive market

Sessions are delivered in concise, high-impact modules built for rapid learning and immediate application back at your credit union. This class is particularly useful for credit union loan officers, MSRs, lending management, and professionals looking to refresh or elevate their lending expertise.

Albany Edition
Tuesday, March 31
Association Headquarters
4 Tower Place (5th Floor), Albany, NY

Buffalo Edition
Cornerstone Community FCU (Main Offices)
6485 South Transit Road
Lockport, NY 14094

Municipal CU Foundation Provides $150,000 Grant to Ronald McDonald House

Municipal Credit Union Foundation's team and the Ronald McDonald House representatives posing with  a big check for $150,000.

The MCU Foundation has awarded a $150,000 grant to Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley to support families navigating serious pediatric medical care. Located on the campus of Westchester Medical Center, RMHGHV offers families comfort and stability during extended hospital stays that often last weeks or months.

The funding will provide thousands of freshly prepared meals, support families staying at RMHGHV, and deliver meals to Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital and Blythedale Children’s Hospital.

Established in 2023, the MCU Foundation focuses on building generational wealth and eliminating poverty by increasing access to necessities, education, and homeownership — reinforcing the credit union movement’s deep commitment to community care. We applaud the foundation and credit union for making a positive impact on their community!

Sunmark Credit Union Partners With The RED Bookshelf

Bins of donated books

The Sunmark Charitable Foundation, the community nonprofit arm of Sunmark Credit Union, partnered with The RED Bookshelf to host a community book drive supporting young readers across the Capital Region.

Together with the community, Sumark collected over 1,000 books. The donated books will stock The RED Bookshelf’s bright red neighborhood shelves, providing free, accessible reading materials to children and families.

Sunmark employees also volunteered to sort and prep books for distribution. We commend the credit union’s hands-on commitment to strengthening literacy, fueling imagination, and supporting the communities it serves!

Sidney Federal Credit Union Launches Mobile Branch

Sidney Federal Credit Union is expanding access to financial services with the launch of its new SFCU Mobile Branch, which began rolling out earlier this month.

Graphic with photo of SFCU "mobile branch" vehicle, and the text:
"Introducing the SFCU mobile branch
Bringing the financial services you need, where you need them"

This full-service banking unit brings essential services directly into neighborhoods across Central New York, helping remove barriers for individuals and families who may not have convenient branch access.

The Mobile Branch provides:

  • Everyday banking services
  • Member support and financial guidance
  • Community outreach and engagement

This new initiative strengthens local connections while ensuring members can access the financial tools they need wherever they are. Check out the Mobile Branch schedule and locations below to see where it’s headed next!

Ada Myteberi of Visions Federal Credit Union Earns CUDE Certification

Headshot of Ada Myteberi

Ada Myteberi, AVP/Regional Member Services Officer at Visions Federal Credit Union, has earned her Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE) designation through the National Credit Union Foundation. Ada joins a global network of more than 3,300 DE graduates from 35 countries.

The immersive, week-long DE program explores cooperative principles, the credit union mission, and strategies to advance financial well-being. The February 2026 cohort convened at Suncoast Credit Union in Tampa, Florida, and included volunteer service at Feeding Tampa Bay.

With over 20 years of financial services experience and oversight of 13 branches, Ada’s CUDE certification reinforces her commitment to financial inclusion, community development, and the credit union difference

Please join us in congratulating Ada for completing this achievement!


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The New York Minute: Community Giving, Awards, and More

This week in our blog, we’re covering donations from local credit unions and one leader who was recently honored. Plus, update your Project Zip Code information to ensure your membership data is accurate. Get these updates and more every week in the New York Minute.

Credit Unions: Update Your Project Zip Code Information

graphic with a star and the words "Project Zip Code" inside

With advocacy efforts underway at both the state and federal levels–and many advocates preparing for America’s Credit Unions’ 2026 Governmental Affairs Conference–now is the ideal time to confirm your Project Zip Code (PZC) data is accurate and up to date.

Project Zip Code is a secure, user-friendly tool that matches your membership data to:

  • Congressional districts
  • State legislative districts
  • Counties

This aggregated data strengthens advocacy by demonstrating the collective impact of credit unions nationwide. Importantly, no individual member information is shared outside your organization.

Beyond advocacy, PZC offers operational value. Credit unions can analyze geographic member distribution to inform decisions about branch placement, ATM strategy, and shared branching opportunities.

Keeping your data current ensures your voice is accurately represented when it matters most. If you require assistance, please contact the Association’s Member Relations team at member.relations@nycua.org. Click below and update your info today!

SeaComm FCU Donates to Massena Fire Department for New Vehicle

SeaComm FCU and Massena Volunteer Fire Department representatives posing with new UTV

SeaComm Federal Credit Union has donated the full amount needed for the Massena Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new UTV and trailer, which significantly strengthens emergency response capabilities in the region.

The all-terrain vehicle will allow firefighters to respond more effectively in remote and wooded terrain, waterfront properties along the river, and areas inaccessible to traditional fire trucks. The investment reflects SeaComm’s ongoing mission to support and protect the communities it serves.

Western New York FCU Makes Donation to WNY Heroes

Representatives from Western New York FCU an d WNY Pawsitive for Heroes Program posing with a donation check

Western New York Federal Credit Union has donated $5,000 to WNY Heroes’ Pawsitive for Heroes Program, which trains and provides service dogs to veterans.

The contribution was made possible through a community enrichment grant from the credit union’s Visa program and supports service dog training and placement, veterinary care, and ongoing food costs for the animals.

This isn’t the only way Western New York FCU is supporting vets! The credit union offers a 0.25% reduction on consumer loans for veterans every day.

Trish Shermot of Visions FCU Honored with ATHENA Award

Graphic congratulating Trish Shermot

Trish Shermot, Director of Government Affairs/Regional Urban Development at Visions Federal Credit Union, has been named the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient by Berks Women2Women.

The ATHENA Award honors women who demonstrate professional excellence, community leadership, and a commitment to empowering other women. Shermot’s career has earned national recognition, including multiple CUNA Dora Maxwell and Louise Herring Awards for social responsibility and ethical leadership.

She serves on numerous boards and committees, championing financial inclusion, workforce development, and civic engagement. Trish will be celebrated at the ATHENA and EmpowHER Awards on March 4 at the Women2Women Conference & Expo.

Please join us in congratulating Trish for this honor!

From Origence- Loan Origination Technology: Accelerating Your Credit Union’s Growth

Photo of woman on her laptop above text that says "Origence"

Credit union lending is changing as fintech competition, rising member expectations, and the demand for digital solutions reshape the industry. Loan origination systems (LOS) have moved beyond the back office and are now essential tools for driving growth, improving efficiency, and delivering the experience members expect. To thrive in today’s financial landscape, credit unions need advanced lending technology that keeps them competitive and future-ready.

Member expectations are redefining lending

Credit union members expect instant decisions, seamless digital experiences, and responsive communication through their preferred channels. They want flexibility and increasingly judge service quality based on speed and convenience. Meeting these expectations becomes challenging when staff are consumed by manual tasks or working with outdated systems. According to Astute Analytica, the global LOS market could reach nearly $10 billion within the next five years, reflecting institutions’ increasing acceptance that advanced lending technology is no longer optional.

Turning a LOS into your competitive advantage

While basic loan origination systems handle essential workflow management, document processing, and reporting, modern solutions deliver transformational capabilities that drive strategic advantage.

  • Intelligent decisioning engines: Modern, AI-powered engines analyze broad datasets for faster, more accurate risk assessments. These systems can more effectively segment applicants who normally fall into “the review zone” and those with limited credit history, expanding lending opportunities to underserved populations without increasing risk.
  • Configurable workflows: The distinction between configuration and customization represents a critical decision point. While customization provides ultimate flexibility, it typically requires technical expertise and involves complex coding by in-house experts. Configurable systems allow credit unions to tailor workflows through intuitive interfaces without developer involvement. The ideal solution balances easy configuration for most needs while providing low-code options and APIs for deeper customization when necessary.
  • Process automation: Intelligent automation transforms lending operations by streamlining document processing, accelerating funding, and reducing manual tasks. Modern systems leverage AI to classify, analyze, and extract data from documents, reducing processing time while improving accuracy. By automating routine tasks, staff can redirect their attention to higher-value activities like building member relationships and handling complex lending scenarios that require human judgment.
  • Communication integration: Modern LOS platforms integrate communication tools that support automated status updates, secure document collection, two-way messaging, live chat, and an online portal. These real-time communication tools reduce application abandonment, accelerate funding, and create a seamless experience that builds member trust and satisfaction—particularly through SMS, which, according to Twilio, can deliver open rates roughly five times higher than email, with 90% of text messages read within three minutes.

Strategic implementation checklist

Before selecting a loan origination system, credit unions should begin with an internal self-assessment to identify the processes, constraints, and technical limitations that may inhibit growth or hinder progress toward strategic goals. Credit union service organizations (CUSOs) often deliver technological solutions and strategic guidance, aligning with credit union values and priorities. The right LOS should address current gaps while enabling future flexibility.

Use the checklist below to guide evaluation and implementation decisions:
Does the solution support your credit union’s unique growth strategy and member service vision?
Can the system connect seamlessly with core banking systems and third-party services through standardized APIs?
Does the solution create a cohesive, branded experience across channels that reduces friction and supports self-service?
Does the system incorporate layered fraud protection measures that evolve with emerging threats?
Will the provider deliver implementation expertise and ongoing optimization assistance?

Technology that powers member connections

As lending technology advances, credit unions that adopt modern loan origination systems set the stage for long-term growth. These solutions combine efficiency with personalized service, delivering the speed and convenience members expect while preserving the relationship-driven approach that defines credit unions.

Successful implementations view loan origination technology not just as a processing tool, but as a catalyst for growth—strengthening member connections and market position. With the right approach, credit unions can deliver faster, more efficient lending while keeping relationships at the center. Origence arc OS is built to help you achieve that balance, combining advanced automation with a member-first experience. Contact us today to learn more about how Origence can help transform your lending strategy.


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The New York Minute: Events & Expert Insights

In our latest New York Minute, explore upcoming educational and event opportunities from the Association, Visions FCU, and InfoSight360! Plus, nominations for the Association’s Board of Directors open this Friday, and read expert insights from TruStage. Get the latest industry news in our weekly newsletter!

Register Now: Elevating Credit Union Leaders Conference Series

Banner with the NYCUA logo and text "Elevating Credit Union Leaders: Transforming Managers Into Visionary Leaders"

The Elevating Credit Union Leaders Conference Series is designed for professionals ready to grow their leadership impact within the credit union movement. This four-part series includes three virtual sessions and one in-person event, offering flexible access to high-value leadership development.

Session Schedule
Virtual: March 18, July 14 & December 2
In-Person: October 7, Crowne Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel

Participants will explore essential leadership topics, including transitioning from manager to mentor, navigating leadership challenges, and mastering strategic communication. The series also dives into the mindset and core qualities required to lead effectively in today’s evolving credit union environment.

Expert insights will be shared by Mark Arnold, Founder & CEO, and Shawn Temple, Chief Strategy Officer of On the Mark Strategies. This program is ideal for managers, supervisors, young professionals, and emerging leaders. Register by March 11, 2026 to save your spot.

Association Board of Directors Nominations Open Friday, February 13

The nomination period for the Association’s Board of Directors will begin Friday, February 13. This is a key opportunity for dedicated credit union leaders to help guide the Association’s mission and shape the future of the credit union movement.

This year, there are three expiring director seats and one open seat:

  • Two seats in Asset Tier 1 (up to $250 million)
  • Two seats in Asset Tier 2 ($250 million and over)

Key Dates
Nominations open: Friday, February 13
Nomination deadline: Wednesday, April 15
Election period: Friday, May 8–Thursday, June 4

To be eligible, candidates must be supported by the leadership of their credit union and committed to fulfilling their leadership responsibilities if elected. Additionally, the nominees’ credit union must be a member of the Association in good standing.

More details on the nomination process will be available on our website starting February 13.

Save the Date: Visions Voice at GAC

Exterior of Visions Federal Credit Union Headquarters

Heading to America’s Credit Unions GAC this year? Add Visions Voice to your agenda for a high-impact networking and learning experience. Hosted by Visions Federal Credit Union, this exclusive event kicks off the conference with timely insights on advancing member financial wellness.

Event Details
Date: March 1, 2026
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location: Washington Convention Center, Room 103 AB

The session, led by Ty Muse, President & CEO of Visions FCU, focuses on Building Member Financial Wellness Through Collaboration. Attendees will hear from nationally recognized speakers Rodney E. Hood and Jean Chatzky.

Guests will enjoy lunch, giveaways, networking, and practical takeaways. Save your spot today!

Up Your Compliance with InfoSight360 Compliance Officer Bootcamp

Event graphic  with a blank and white photo of boots and text that says 
"Compliance Boot Camp
Not Your "BASIC" Training"

As credit unions face increasing compliance complexity, the InfoSight360 Compliance Officer Bootcamp delivers the foundational training today’s compliance professionals need to succeed. This comprehensive program goes beyond individual regulations to focus on how to approach compliance work, like covering regulatory interpretation, research techniques, audits, training requirements, marketing and advertising compliance, fraud investigations, complaint programs, and third-party due diligence.

Designed as an annual program with quarterly, three-hour sessions, the Bootcamp is led by experienced compliance professionals who understand the real-world demands of the role. Participants will build confidence, clarity, and a deeper understanding of how compliance supports the entire credit union organization.

This training is ideal for both new and developing compliance professionals seeking a strong operational foundation. Registration is open through March 15, 2026, but space is limited. Invest in confident, capable compliance leadership today.

By Steve Rick, Director and Chief Economist, TruStage

TruStage logo

As 2025 winds down, credit unions are looking ahead to a year that promises both opportunities and challenges. Economic signals suggest 2026 will not be a repeat of the last decade’s boom times, but it won’t be a disaster either.

Inflation: Higher, but manageable

Inflation will likely climb above the Federal Reserve’s two percent target, reaching 3.2 to 3.3 percent in early 2026. Why? Tariffs. Many firms have absorbed tariff costs so far, but they’ll eventually start passing those costs along to consumers. For credit unions, this means members will feel the pinch in everyday expenses, and lending strategies will probably need to adapt.

Interest rates: Cuts are coming

The Fed cut rates by 25 basis points in December, and they may cut another 50 basis points in 2026. The Fed is pulling its foot off the brake and easing out of restrictive territory. For CUs, lower rates could stimulate demand for auto loans and other credit products. That’s good news for loan growth, but it also means tighter margins on deposits.

Economic growth: Slow, not stalled

Despite inflationary pressure, I am not forecasting a recession in 2026. Instead, expect below-trend growth. For credit unions, this translates into a stable but cautious environment. Members may not be spending aggressively, but to keep the car analogies going; they’re unlikely to slam the brakes entirely.

Stock market: Lofty highs and looming risks

The S&P 500 has soared 16 percent year-to-date, 49 percent over the last two years, and 84 percent over the last five years. That’s created a wealth effect for the top 10 percent of Americans who own most stocks. But there could be trouble looming. Margin debt has ballooned to $1.1 trillion, up 34 percent in a year. If markets correct sharply, consumer confidence could take a hit, and members might pull back on spending and borrowing.

Valuation concerns and the AI factor

The Shiller P/E ratio is 41, the second highest level ever. The Shiller Ratio (CAPE) measures stock market value by comparing current prices to the average of 10 years of inflation-adjusted earnings, with higher ratios signaling lower future returns.

Much of the market surge is tied to the “Magnificent Seven” tech stocks and AI optimism. If AI fails to deliver the productivity gains investors expect, a bubble could burst. While I don’t foresee a crash, there are parallels to past speculative periods. For credit unions, a market downturn could mean members shifting focus to savings and liquidity.

Nightmare scenarios: What could go wrong?

I’m not forecasting doom, but I am watching several risks: trade wars escalating beyond tariffs, geopolitical shocks such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict spreading, commercial real estate stress with office vacancies and refinancing challenges, and falling home prices in states like Texas, Florida and California, which could ripple into consumer confidence.

Any of these could trigger a recession or at least a sharp slowdown. For CUs, that means preparing for potential spikes in delinquencies and shifts in member behavior.

What it all means for credit unions

The big picture? 2026 looks like a year of moderate inflation, easing rates and cautious growth. Credit unions should expect members to feel cost pressures while benefiting from lower borrowing costs. Loan demand—especially autos—may rise, but margins will tighten. Market volatility could influence member sentiment, making liquidity and risk management critical.

I am not forecasting a recession—just a little bit below-trend economic growth. For credit unions, that’s a call to stay nimble, focus on member needs and prepare for a year that’s more about managing risk than chasing record growth.

The views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of TruStage.

TruStage is the marketing name for TruStage Financial Group, Inc. its subsidiaries and affiliates. Corporate headquarters are located in Madison, Wis.


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