News & Insights

Volatility continued to be the driving theme for markets while conflicting messages about a resolution to the Iran war permeated headlines throughout the week. President Trump warned Iran that they had until Monday night to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or he would begin strikes on critical energy infrastructure

Why FedNow Matters Now: The Future of Instant Payments | When to Use Subordinated Debt: Capital Planning to Unlock Growth | Webinar: Smarter Payments Start Here: Inside Catalyst’s Dynamic Digital Payments Platform | On-Demand Webinar: Drive Value with Catalyst Subordinated Debt | Registration open for Catalyst's 2026 Strategic Summit | Catalyst Welcomes Nathan Quade as Vice President of Sales

As expectations for digital banking experiences continue to rise, influenced by the constantly online nature of life today, consumers expect their financial services to keep pace. Instant payment rails, especially the Federal Reserve’s FedNow® Service, give credit unions a powerful opportunity to meet these expectations while continuing to deliver trusted, member-first financial services.

Oil prices surged 29% last weekend, topping $100/barrel for the first time since July 2022. Equity markets experienced declines all week, with losses deepening at first.

The monthly Market Overview & Data Report is a comprehensive summary of March's key economic and market metrics that are fundamental to credit union financial management. The report not only summarizes key economic and market data, but also explains how these metrics are relevant to credit unions. It further includes industry peer performance data and assessment, relative value evaluation, and an upcoming economic calendar. It is also an excellent report to include in credit union board and ALCO packets.

Growth is rarely constrained by opportunity. More often, it is constrained by capital levels.
Across the credit union industry, we continue to see strong demand for loans, new markets, technology investments and strategic combinations.