ARLINGTON, Va. -- Card processing executives and card experts credit a mixture of better card management and the current economic slowdown for fueling the strong growth in credit union card portfolio balances.

Card Services for Credit Unions has waged a long campaign to help their members improve their card management practices and was quick to see how better management has been helping drive the growth.

"During a tough economy, many cardholders are recognizing that their credit union tends to offer more favorable rates than the big banks on most products, including credit cards," said CSCU spokesman Cassie Ricks. "And as some banks are facing increased pressure due to the mortgage crunch, many credit unions are in a better position to serve their members with competitive APRs and lower fees."

Mark Fenner, National Sales Manager for TNB Card Services largely agreed and noted that more credit unions have become aware of how valuable credit cards are to their members.