Commentary

Banks, credit unions and retailers have seen tough times of late. Specifically, bankers--and even some credit unions--are seeing a gloomy period ahead due to credit losses and the liquidity restraints due to the need for more loan-loss reserves. For businesses, much like consumers, liquidity is paramount to survival. Growing the...

The world of search engines is fast-paced and ever-changing. Google, Yahoo!, MSN and numerous other engines are the gateways to the Web's valuable content. As they continue to evolve, it's important to keep their latest developments in sight. Why? Because your Web site's visibility in search engines makes a significant...

I'm going to challenge the assumption that this country has a need for financial education.

In most cases, a credit union's members would rather turn to the credit union they know and trust for all of their financial needs instead of establishing a new relationship with another financial organization. It only stands to reason, therefore, that members who are small- business owners would look to...

The credit union industry is searching for improved profitability but is falling into the trap of pursuing business lines and strategies that blur the distinction between banks and CUs. I submit that if CUs dilute their distinction from banks, banks will gain more market share with their vastly larger budgets...

The stories are told almost daily on the evening news broadcasts. Another homeowner is facing eviction, having failed to make that ever increasing mortgage payment. Another brokerage firm is in trouble. Banks scrambling to dig out of the hole that was created by making real estate loans that may have,...

As I was sitting in yet another airport terminal waiting for a flight home, the TV monitor showed a CNN breaking news story on Eliot Spitzer troubles. As evidence that I picked the correct career path, I was less interested in the details of what he did than in how...

I was pleased to see the recent reports that fewer credit unions are selling their card portfolios and credit union card programs are out-competing other financial institutions (Credit Union Times, Jan. 16, 2008). It's a great success story for credit unions, and as a former credit union executive it's a...