LAS VEGAS The common thread running through some of the credit unions that have recently experienced significant lending and operational troubles was the connection those losses had to their CUSO relationships.

The industry debate over term limits for directors surfaced anew last week with Unitus Community CU of Portland, Ore. announcing that it has adopted new guidelines to deal with the sensitive matter.

Regulators are often the center of attention, but lately the NCUA has taken the spotlight. Unfortunately for the agency, its been low-hanging fruit.

A majority of the credit unions around the country that issue cards will soon be able to offer merchant-funded rewards.