State of the CMO and MBS Market – Midyear 2025 (Basic Fundamental Analysis)
Aug 18 2025

Halfway through 2025, the market for bonds tied to home loans – known as CMOs (Collateralized Mortgage Obligations) and MBS (Mortgage-Backed Securities) – are going through some changes. These changes are mostly driven by the overall economy, government policies and what people are anticipating with interest rates.

By: Chris Folse
What are Credit Union Leaders Saying About Strategic Summit?
Aug 17 2025

Set against the backdrop of Lost Pines Resort & Spa near Austin, Texas, the  Catalyst Strategic Summit unfolds over 2.5 immersive days, October 21-23, equipping attendees with the tools, trends and connections needed to navigate what’s next.

Mixed Inflation Messages
Aug 15 2025

Markets considered Tuesday’s CPI report benign enough for the FOMC to cut rates by at least 50 basis points for the remainder of the year. President Trump’s global tariff policies officially took effect last week and there’s still one more government jobs report and one more CPI report before the next FOMC meeting, offering time for the committee to amass more data to inform their next decision.

By: John Kirby
Labor Down, Delinquencies Up
Aug 08 2025

The labor market took a turn this week after August kicked off with a government jobs report that came back well-below expectations. The jobs report included a downward revision of prior months’ totals by 258,000 and an increase in the unemployment rate.

By: John Kirby
August '25 Market Overview & Data Report
Aug 01 2025

The monthly Market Overview & Data Report is a comprehensive summary of August'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.

Equities Rally, Loans Deteriorating
Jul 25 2025

The S&P 500 has been on another tear in recent weeks, hitting 10 new all-time highs in the last 19 trading sessions.

By: John Kirby
CPI Flattens, Equities Do Not
Jul 18 2025

This week’s CPI report showed inflation may be starting to bite consumers. Prices on apparel, household furnishings and recreation commodities unexpectedly increased in June.

By: John Kirby
End of Government Checks and Its Impact on Instant Payments
Jul 17 2025

The use of paper Treasury checks is set to end by September 30, 2025. As the government is phasing out check payments, the Federal Reserve’s instant payment rail has been ramping up. With government disbursements going all digital, volume on the FedNow rail is set to increase – and that means credit unions must prepare for what comes next.

By: Glenn Wheeler
Catalyst Vision - July 2025
Jul 15 2025

Countdown to August 29: Catalyst’s 2025 Crasher Contest Seeks Young Professionals Ready to Lead | Why the Barbell Strategy Is Gaining Traction in Today’s Market | Recent Subordinated Debt Deal | BAI Hosted FedNow Webinar | Asset Management Video

Countdown to August 29: Catalyst’s 2025 Crasher Contest Seeks Young Professionals Ready to Lead
Jul 14 2025

The call is out for the next generation of credit union leaders to step forward and take part in Catalyst’s 2025 Young Professional (YP) Crasher Contest. Emerging professionals are encouraged to apply for a sponsored experience, including registration and hotel stay, for the Catalyst Strategic Summit taking place October 21-23 at the Lost Pines Resort & Spa near Austin, Texas.