preview

Benefits Of Small Banks And Credit Unions

Good Essays

Relay FCU has certain advantages over larger banks and credit unions, the ability to offer higher interest on savings accounts and lower rates on loans are two examples. The drawbacks of being a small firm however, are such that a problem exists of low membership totals. When a new member joins a credit union, their assets become a resource of the firm. The more assets a credit union can amount, the greater risk it can undertake through loans, the number of and type of loans issued increases and the credit union earns more in interest. Maintaining a steady growth in membership may be especially important to Relay FCU because of the potential effects of an aging membership population. In a study by the Credit Union National Association, …show more content…

Relay FCU has an opportunity to address the problem of low membership numbers with the younger demographic. In a study by the Credit Union National Association only 52% of credit union members age 60 and over use online banking services, when compared to the 68% of the members in the prime borrowing age (CUNA), this leaves small credit unions similar to Relay FCU who are without online services, at a disadvantage in attracting younger members.
The issue that Relay FCU faces can be addressed with an aggressive marketing strategy centered around attracting the younger population. With only one physical location and no online banking service, a heavily tech-oriented youth population may look to other credit unions or banks instead of opening an account with Relay. To address this, Relay must first seek to implement a web-based banking system complete with an app for mobile phone banking as well. According to Bob Hedges, managing director in AlixPartners’ Financial Services Practice, “Consumers are demanding, expecting, and shopping for mobile capabilities. Banks who fail to innovate run the risk of losing customers and face real challenges in attracting new customers” (Marous, 2014). Once the mobile banking service is implemented, Relay must develop a marketing plan targeted to consumers in the prime borrowing age range of 25-44. This marketing plan must include heavy advertising and a social media presence. Relay is not on any social media sites such as

Get Access