Branch network

The institution had considered a merger of equals that was never finalized before deciding to change its name to Elevate Credit Union.

Leaders in bank innovation have ideas for improving financial services with high-speed, highly responsive 5G networks — ideas they say could be implemented relatively quickly.

The Minneapolis bank will open about 10 branches in North Carolina's largest city by the end of next year, adding to already intensifying competition among big banks.

CEO Andy Cecere acknowledges that other banks have tried to broaden customer relationships and selectively expand into new markets before and struggled. But the sophistication of today’s online and mobile services could make all the difference this time, he says.

With branch traffic on the decline, some CUs have taken steps to tweak their facilities in order to help brick and mortar stay relevant in a digital world.

KeyBank is deploying new technology designed to improve the online and mobile banking experience and to guide branch employees' conversations with customers. The move comes on top of steps to modernize its IT infrastructure.

The Fitchburg, Mass.-based institution also started an insurance agency and upgraded its mobile banking last year.

The Jacksonville-based credit union kicked off 2019 by buying a bank and expanding into Georgia, but VyStar's moves may hold lessons for CUs far beyond the southeast.

A growing number of financial institutions are piloting initiatives sharing space with coffee shops and other retailers in an effort to boost foot traffic.

The nation's largest bank plans to open 90 new branches in new cities this year while continuing its expansion in the Philadelphia, Boston and Washington markets.