The State of the CU Industry: Leading with digital, AI, and advisory excellence

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A free webinar brought to you by CUNA Strategic Services and Wipfli

Presenters: Barb Lowman, CSS President; Alison Herrick, Partner at Wipfli; Matt Sabo, Partner at Wipfli; and Robert Zondag, Partner at Wipfli

Wipfli surveyed 100 credit union executives to uncover their outlook, key challenges, and strategic priorities for 2026. Now in its fifth year, this study reveals robust confidence among leaders, with the majority anticipating asset growth over 5% in the coming year. Digital initiatives dominate the agenda, improving member engagement, leveraging data analytics and AI, and embracing instant payment solutions as top priorities.

Listen in as we review the most pressing trends shaping credit unions, including cybersecurity, fraud, and fintech competition. Explore how branch strategies are evolving with increased plans for new openings and advisory hubs. This session is tailored for credit union executives seeking actionable insights to navigate the financial services landscape in 2026.

Key takeaways from the survey include:

  • AI adoption: 82% of credit unions are implementing AI to streamline operations and member services, but many lack confidence.

  • Digital strategy: 64% of leaders rank improving digital member engagement as their #1 strategic priority.

  • Cybersecurity: 77% of credit unions experienced at least one unauthorized network access incident last year, highlighting the need for stronger governance.

The big takeaway? This year, the most successful credit union teams will be those that align innovative technology like AI and BaaS with a member-centric philosophy.

Connect with Wipfli to learn more.

 

 
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Wipfli

Wipfli LLP is an advisory firm offering expansive services in tax, audit, risk, M&A, strategic planning, operational performance, and digital transformation. Wipfli professionals bring real-world experience to deliver the industry, compliance, and technology knowledge you need. We understand the realities you face and provide the guidance necessary for success. Our experts use decades of industry experience and innovation to help clients transform faster, engage smarter, and achieve tangible results. Others see problems. We see possibilities.

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