SAN ANTONIO - Credit unions that combine more back-office operations and are hyperfocused on member needs will be most likely to do well in hard times.

Mortgagebot LLC, a leading online mortgage shopping service, says a recent consumer survey has confirmed that its Mortgage Marvel service is a favorite among mortgage shoppers.

Forty eight credit unions received almost $70 million from the U.S. Treasury's Community Development Capital Initiative program, according to the National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions.

Receiving NCUA assistance, the $135 million Hope Credit Union of Jackson, Miss. said Friday it is completing a merger effective today of the struggling, low income East Central FCU of Louisville, Miss.