The competitive edge

Glad to see Credit Union Times is planning to spend some time reviewing the competitive landscape credit unions face everyday with their new “News of the Competition” regular feature (CU Times, May 30). Frankly, it’s about time. I see a strong need need for credit unions to focus on the competitor (not just peer) which will lead to more effective marketing and strategic planning. The benefits to this are huge for credit unions and too numerous to mention here, but it can lead to more attention on the operating ratios that really matter, more lucid member focus, more appropriate relationships with the regulator and most importantly increased market share. Peter Duffy Senior Vice President First Empire Securities Hauppauge, N.Y.