CUs grab attention of Washington television news media

<p>WASHINGTON-CUNA President and CEO Dan Mica appeared live on Washington D.C.’s CBS affiliate recently to promote credit unions’ online efforts. The appearance underscored a story that ran in a recent Wall Street Journal on credit unions’ e-prowess. Mica took time during the six-minute segment to explain how consumers can reach credit unions online. “Folks can get online right now as they used to deal with the biggest banks in the U.S. and now deal with the smallest credit unions,” Mica said. He listed out many of the possibilities in dealing with a credit union online for a car loan, mortgage, CD, and other financial instruments. “Technology has been a leveler for this not-for-profit approach.” Mica also emphasized the difference between credit unions, as democratically controlled non-profits, and banks. He noted credit unions’ strong track record of trust with their members, 17-years running, according to a Gallup poll. “Let the competition beware,” Anchorman Mike Buchanan declared. “Thanks to new technology and rock-bottom fees, credit unions have made a comeback. They are a competitive force now in online banking.” The broadcast aired May 21 on WUSA-TV Channel 9 for viewers in the suburban Maryland and northern Virginia areas.</p>