Credit unions

Apple was accused by Affinity Credit Union of using its market power in the mobile device industry to fend off competition from other payment card issuers and charging them fees to boost its bottom line.

The combined institution would have more than $4 billion of assets and 36 branches across Oregon and Washington.

Chris Conway will step down as president and CEO of Educational Systems Federal Credit Union early next year. He will be replaced by Chief Financial Officer Girado Smith.

Amplify Credit Union in Austin, Texas, started thinking about removing all banking fees two years ago. First, it had to overhaul its online account-opening process.

Some scrutinize quarterly reports for details that can help better compete against banks. Others are motivated by schadenfreude.

The Polish American Credit Union Support Fund is gathering donations from members to help purchase ambulances and medical supplies, while also securing more stable housing for those fleeing the conflict.

Credit unions generally struggle to make agricultural loans because the market is saturated by more experienced lenders. But they can develop the expertise — or acquire it through M&A.

Lucy Ito, who stepped down from the helm of the National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors last year, will become the interim president and chief executive of Orange County’s Credit Union in California.

Ryan Donovan, a longtime credit union advocate and executive vice president of the Credit Union National Association, will officially succeed John von Seggern on Sept. 6.

Robert Goscicki has stepped down as president and CEO of Area Federal Credit Union in Aberdeen.