Page 4 - Cuj Feature News Today

In March's roundup of American Banker's favorite stories: How rising interest rates took community banks by surprise, small banks and credit unions react to the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, ex-Wells Fargo executive Carrie Tolstedt faces potential jail time and more.

Oregon Community Credit Union is piloting a new schedule to address rising absenteeism and concerns about stress among its call center staff.

After experiencing deposit growth above 11% in 2021, credit unions saw that figure drop to 3% last year. But some CEOs say funds are flowing in again in the wake of recent bank failures.

Companies like U.S. Bancorp have found ways to apply the information they use to serve thin-file applicants to small-business owners and other borrowers.

A few years ago, banks and credit unions were veering away from drive-up service in their new branches. And then the pandemic hit.

Consumers are worried that the banking crisis could spread to their own accounts. To address these fears, some credit unions are getting more focused on liquidity — and making their top executives available to address any member's concerns.

Credit unions' provision for loan and lease losses rose by 337% in 2022. Industry observers cite forecasted economic weakness and current expected credit loss implementation as the primary reasons.

Crossing the $500 million-asset mark helps credit unions improve membership numbers and loans, but regulatory data shows that many are choosing to stay small. The reason may be more emotional than practical.

The National Credit Union Administration unanimously approved modifications to its 2020 rule that raise maturity ceilings on offerings and simplifies redundant language.

Community lenders do not share the problems that led to the downfall of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank — but their customers and members don't always know that.