From dealing with a flood of deposits to working with examiners virtually, credit unions were forced to quickly adapt to a new normal after the pandemic hit. Here's a look at some of the biggest changes and challenges they faced.
The credit union regulator has no immediate plans to bring staff and examiners back into the office, but Chairman Rodney Hood said staying remote would remain an option for all staff members during Phase 1 of any return.
With the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency considering a special charter for payments firms, a state regulator group said large money transmitters can opt for the “one company, one exam” program next year.
With on-site supervision off the table indefinitely, various credit union trade associations have suggested how NCUA could improve remote exams, including issues related to exam timelines and cybersecurity.
The pandemic will accelerate the drive toward a supervision process in which both regulators and banks will need the digital tools that enable sophisticated remote exams. Expect a heightened focus, too, on customers' financial health.
The acting comptroller of the currency signaled that his agency is planning to resume on-site supervision despite health risks tied to the pandemic. But some bankers and former examiners urged caution, saying remote monitoring has its advantages.
The agency flagged faulty risk management and other issues at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines and Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco in exams conducted last year.
