Meet The Finalists For The 2026 Innovation Series: Reimagining The Lending Experience
This year’s finalists are uncovering new ways to harness the power of technology to improve and expand lending across the industry.
This year’s finalists are uncovering new ways to harness the power of technology to improve and expand lending across the industry.
With adjustable-rate mortgages back in fashion, credit unions are educating members about the ins and outs of these products, dispelling misunderstandings along the way.
Elevated interest rates make fixed-rate mortgages less attractive to borrowers. In today’s environment, adjustable-rate and balloon/hybrid options offer more attractive payments and short-term flexibility.
The Federal Reserve is projected to cut rates several times in 2024; however, soaring prices and dwindling savings still leave Americans with little incentive to make a big purchase.
As the market shifts and borrowing costs rise, adjustable-rate home loans are becoming popular once again.
Credit union mortgage market share is largely unchanged from one year ago; however, the percentage of adjustable-rate loans has jumped substantially.
Secondary market sales of burgeoning credit union mortgage share remains dominant, but credit unions are selling more loans to each other, too.
Volunteers help credit unions understand more clearly the needs and wants of the community. An active Board of Directors aids in membership and business growth.
PenFed’s large stake in unusual adjustable rate mortgages helps defend against rate hikes while bolstering its bottom line.
What are credit unions doing to increase their visibility in the mortgage market?

A look at year-end performance trends reveals how earnings, affordability pressures, and asset quality are redefining the operating environment heading into 2026.

Members are struggling with an affordability crisis that is changing how they manage debt, and new behaviors are showing up across the credit union loan portfolio.

This year’s Innovation Series returns with bigger impact and broader horizons. Since 2018, this annual showcase has spotlighted forward-thinking solutions by giving innovators a stage to share ideas, demonstrate solutions, and spark meaningful change.
Credit union asset quality didn’t collapse in 2025 — but it didn’t cooperate, either. What’s going on, and are credit unions prepared to respond in 2026?

This year’s Innovation Series returns with bigger impact and broader horizons. Since 2018, this annual showcase has spotlighted forward-thinking solutions by giving innovators a stage to share ideas, demonstrate solutions, and spark meaningful change.

This year’s Innovation Series returns with bigger impact and broader horizons. Since 2018, this annual showcase has spotlighted forward-thinking solutions by giving innovators a stage to share ideas, demonstrate solutions, and spark meaningful change.
The affordability crisis extends far beyond big-ticket expenses. As the rising cost of basic necessities outpaces income growth, household budgets are under strain and long-term financial stability is increasingly at risk.
As credit unions move deeper into 2026, the earnings conversation is shifting. Elevated interest rates have boosted margins and strengthened earnings flexibility, but that advantage won’t persist indefinitely.
A radical shift is taking place in the way consumers move money and engage with their financial institution.

How the Michigan-based cooperative’s “Culture of Finance” curriculum is reframing financial education.