Credit unions

The American Bankers Association has requested more time to respond to a proposal that would expand lending authority for credit union service organizations.

The deal to take over the firm's prearranged funeral insurance and final expense business in the U.S. and Canada is worth approximately $1.3 billion, and marks the latest in a string of acquisitions for CUNA Mutual.

Chris Hendry has served on the credit union's board but has spent his career in health care and philanthropy. He said many of his skills are easily transferable, including a focus on marketing and community engagement.

The Virginia-based credit union has appointed Executive Vice President Lisa Lambrecht as a temporary successor to former President and CEO Delbert Lee Morgan, following his move to Pen Air FCU.

The industry saw deposits rise by nearly 20% last year, in part due to economic stimulus measures from the government. More of the same could be coming once President Biden signs the latest stimulus bill into law.

Lending slowed, credit allowances mounted and return on assets as well as other performance ratios weakened, according to year-end figures from the credit union regulator.

The number of credit unions having serious conversations about diversifying their boards is on the rise, according to a new study from CUES, but those efforts are more likely to succeed if targets, education and other factors are in place.

The new leaders include some who succeed retiring chief executives retiring and others stepping in after unexpected departures.

The St. Louis-based institution is the latest in the industry to create an executive-level position focused on diversity, equity and inclusion.

The deal, subject to approval from regulators and members, will add to Valley Strong's existing branch network and comes after several years of losses at Solano First.