Banking Alternatives
Credit unions, fintech banks and community-owned models
Banking Alternatives
Credit Union vs. Bank: The Differences That Actually Affect Your Money
Beyond the BankCredit union vs bank: deposit insurance is the same, but loan rates and who can join differ. See NCUA's average rates and what they mean in dollars.
Read moreCredit Unions Now Serve 146 Million Americans. Here's How They Differ From Banks
Beyond the BankU.S. credit unions now have 146.1 million members and $2.5 trillion in assets, NCUA data shows. How the member-owned model differs from a bank.
Read moreDigital Banks Now Win 40% of New U.S. Accounts. Here's What to Weigh Before Switching
Beyond the BankNeobanks won 40% of new U.S. accounts in the past year, Simon-Kucher finds, as fraud losses climb. How digital banks differ and what to check before switching.
Read moreThe Fintechs Are Becoming Banks: 30-Plus Firms Sought U.S. Charters in 2026
Beyond the BankMore than 30 fintechs and digital-finance firms sought U.S. bank charters in 2026, including Revolut, Nubank, Mercury and Upstart. What it means for your money.
Read moreRegulators Narrow What Counts as 'Unsafe' Banking
Beyond the BankA new OCC and FDIC rule defines 'unsafe or unsound' banking for the first time and drops reputation risk, while more small banks move to 18-month exams.
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