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Credit union leaders nationwide converged in-person and online to participate in Catalyst Corporate’s 2023 Economic & Payments Forum last week. The event was packed with actionable insights delivered by a diverse array of industry experts. 

Catalyst Corporate CEO Bruce Fox moderated Forum’s first-ever fireside chat with senior management executives. The executives shared insights on liquidity, payment solutions, cybersecurity and technology, all in the context of forward-looking strategies for 2024. Keynote speaker and “funny economist" Peter Ricchiuti lived up to his humorous reputation, eliciting laughter while providing perspectives on critical aspects of the economy, investment priorities and media-driven misconceptions.

This year’s Forum placed emphasis on several key areas, including the analysis of economic trends, strategies to boost credit union bottom lines and a series of presentations on faster payments.

Sara Ross, leadership expert and author of “Dear Work, Something Has to Change,” was an attendee favorite. She combined her expertise and high energy to paint a picture of how leaders can handle stress in a healthy way to work with vitality.

Day one ended on a high note at the onsite reception, where attendees enjoyed tasty cuisine, refreshing beverages and an engaging networking opportunity. Cupcakes commemorated Catalyst Strategic Solutions’ 35^th anniversary – the cherry on top of a wonderful evening.

Day two’s breakfast breakout sessions touched on Catalyst’s CU LoanPay solution and growth and risk management. Forum veteran Steven Houle, Catalyst Strategic Solutions Vice President of Advisory Service, returned to the main stage to provide his annual economic review and explore how credit unions can position their balance sheet to optimize earnings and manage risk.

Tuesday evening, attendees gathered at Tinman Social, where they participated in activities such as axe-throwing, bowling, corn-hole and more – all while fostering connections with fellow credit union peers.

The following morning, attendees joined Catalyst’s subject-matter experts for breakfast breakout sessions on balance sheet strategies and faster payments. Geopolitical strategist Peter Zeihan explored how worldwide events, demographic shifts and technology advancements influence current economic trends. His insightful analysis illuminated the intricate interplay between labor markets and international relations, offering valuable information for the forces shaping our global economy.

Wrapping up Forum 2023 was renowned global futurist Jack Uldrich. Uldrich explained how leading technology such as artificial intelligence (AI), contactless payments and biometrics can enhance the relationships between credit unions and their members. Emcee Greg Moore, EVP of Member Relations, drew the conference to a close, announcing the grand prize winner of Catalyst’s putting contest, Robert Hernandez from Austin Telco FCU. 

Miss one of these sessions? Catalyst Corporate’s Economic & Payments Forum is now available to Forum registrants on-demand.