By Paul Mercer
As we get set to turn the page on 2025, the Ohio Credit Union League and Ohio credit unions have been thinking intentionally about the changes ahead for credit unions in 2026 and beyond. From AI to cryptocurrency to fraud prevention and advocacy priorities, we know that Ohio credit unions will face numerous challenges and opportunities in the months and years to come.
And while it can often seem overwhelming to navigate and respond to the latest technology or the latest financial trends, credit unions have not only survived amid ongoing change and progress, but they’ve also continued to thrive.
When I think about why, there’s one reason that particularly stands out: credit unions’ commitment to Cooperative Principle six, cooperation among cooperatives.
Credit unions here in Ohio and across the country understand that one of the most important tenets upon which our movement was founded is that we’re stronger together.
Especially now, as our members face financial hardships or questions about their economic future, I’ve seen time and again Ohio credit unions step up to find solutions together to protect the 3.4 million Ohio credit union members’ hard-earned money and make their financial futures brighter.
Earlier this year, Ohio credit unions collaborated to secure a provision in state law that would increase participation in student-run credit unions, promote financial literacy among young people, and position them for future financial success.
Ohio Credit Union League members also formed a fraud working group in our state this year to help strategically tackle the ongoing issue of financial fraud, increase communication about fraud efforts among credit unions, and help protect credit union members from financial scams.
Tax Fight Success
And think about our collective efforts to protect the credit union tax status in the One Big Beautiful Bill. Despite bank lobbyists’ best efforts, we once again demonstrated our collective strength and protected credit unions and members from feeling the harmful effects of increased taxation at a time when they can least afford it.
These important victories show the power of credit union connection and collaboration. It’s not only one of our greatest strengths as a movement, but also what makes us stand out from other financial institutions and industries.
As we prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead, 2026 is the perfect time for us to resolve as a movement to recommit to our cooperative principles and the collaborative spirit we were founded upon. To set our focus on what we can achieve and accomplish together for the movement and for our members, instead of any small differences that may divide us.
The credit unions and the credit union members we serve deserve nothing less.
Paul Mercer is President of the Ohio Credit Union League.