Shopping for Loans

Yields Make Clear Why Focus Is So Important

The numbers make clear how broad the gap is between the yield on investments and the yield on loans. Bridging that gap in 2012, notes one person, will come down to credit union staff.

'12 Days of Auto Loans' Is A Hit

1st Financial FCU here had a dozen merry days with its "12 Days of Christmas Auto Loan" special.

'No Credit Check Easy Loan' Has Borrowers Lined Up

DMCU has offered its "No Credit Check Easy Loan" since 2007, but sought to "raise the ante" this year when it more than doubled the amount of funds available as part of the specidl program.

Big Opportunity In Small Biz Loans

Analyst: Banks Vulnerable

When it comes to lending in 2012, one person is advising that capturing business loans from the big banks could be the biggest opportunity available.

The Risk In Becoming Too Risk Averse

Advice: Remember Why People Joined

Pointing to a "backlog" of consumer credit needs, Dennis Dollar is cautioning credit unions to avoid becoming too risk averse in 2012.

Greater Relevance,Greater Volume

Why It Matters to Matter

Instead of cutting rates to battle tough consumer lending competition, CUs will need to gain greater relevance in the minds their members and communities in order to generate more loans.

Automation Nation: More Analytics Tools

Avoiding 'Sticky' Messes

In 2012 expect to see only more usage of automated analytical and business intelligence tools to better manage lending portfolios, address risk, and get more quality loans out of their members.

Mobile: Not Just For Inquiries Anymore

Lending Platform Grows

Mobile banking has seen remarkable advances in recent years, but largely has not included lending. Expect that to change as soon as 2012, according to Mark Nelson, Loanliner sales specialist for CUNA Mutual Group.

Why Small Dollar, Short Term Is Big Deal

A $56-Billion Market

CUs are ignoring a $56-billion lending opportunity, one analyst contends. That is the size of the market for small-dollar, short-term automated loans that companies such as BillFloat and BillMeLater are targeting.

Ensure ALM Keeps Up With Lending

Don't Forget Deposits

One person has some advice that many credit unions haven't heard in awhile: Lending should pick up in 2012, meaning adequate deposits must be on hand to keep pace.

Tuning Into The Lending Channel(s)

Need to Be 'Consistent'

Establishing a consistent lending experience across all delivery channels will help credit unions garner a bigger share of their members' loan business this year.

Red River, Red River, Bring Your Loans Over

Taking on a Bit of Risk

It may not be a strategy that works for all, but Red River Employees FCU here is planning to take a bit more risk with its lending in 2012.

Vital To Be More Than Just A Low Rate

Ancilliary Services Needed

As the auto lending market continues to get tougher, credit unions have to find more ways to stand out beyond simply offering a low rate.