CUNA
  • Advocacy
    • Priorities we’re fighting for
    • Actions you can take
  • News
  • Learn
  • Compliance
  • Shop
  • Topics
    • Community Service
    • Compliance
    • Credit Union Hero
    • Credit Union Rock Star
    • Credit Union System
    • Directors
    • Human Resources
    • Leadership
    • Lending
    • Marketing
    • Operations
    • Policy & Issues
    • Sales & Service
    • Technology
  • Credit Union Magazine
    • Buyers' Guide
    • COVID-19
    • Digital Edition
    • Credit Union Hero
    • Credit Union Rock Star
    • Subscribe
    • Advertise
    • Contact
  • COVID-19
  • Advertise
  • Awards
    • Nominate Credit Union Hero
    • Nominate Credit Union Rock Star
  • Podcasts
  • Videos
  • Contact
Learn More about Member Value

News

Member Benefits
Learn more
Learn more about the benefits of membership.
Home » Global credit union membership surpasses 291 million
CU System

Global credit union membership surpasses 291 million

October 12, 2020
2019Report

The international credit union movement added over 17 million members in 2019 to reach a new membership high of more than 291 million in 118 countries, according to World Council of Credit Unions’ 2019 Statistical Report.

That surge contributed to a worldwide credit union membership growth of more than 107 million over the past decade (2010-19)—an increase of 59%. The rise was fueled primarily by large increases in Latin America, Africa and Asia.

Membership growth by region for the ten-year period was as follows:

  • Latin America 153%
  • Africa 143%
  • Asia 81%
  • Oceania 48%
  • North America 30%
  • Caribbean 17%
  • Europe 8%

“Our movement continues to grow because we respond to the needs of members by expanding services, providing more access through digital channels and putting their economic empowerment ahead of corporate profits,” said World Council President/CEO Brian Branch. “That growth will continue as consumer demands for safety join those of convenience and seamless integration into the digital economy. Those demands have only grown throughout the COVID-19 crisis, and credit unions across the globe are responding.”

Looking specifically at 2019, credit unions in Oceania saw the largest per capita increase in membership, with a 24% jump from 2018. Asian credit unions grew at a rate of 13%.

Credit union assets increased by more than 26% worldwide in 2019, while savings, loans and reserves also grew.

World Council reports data based on country responses to its annual survey and does not make estimates for non-reporting countries. The Statistical Report provides the most comprehensive data on the global credit union movement available, and is cited widely by governments, international institutions and analysts as an expert resource.

KEYWORDS World Council
Credit Union Magazine - Winter 2020

Winter 2020

Credit Union Magazine’s Winter 2020 edition features CUNA’s 2021 lending outlook, CEO insights on adjusting to the pandemic, and board recruitment strategies.
Digital Edition •  Subscribe

Trending

  • Compliance: 2020 Year in Review, Checklist now available

  • CUNA sends recommendations to incoming Biden administration

  • Compliance: NCUA, agencies issue FAQs on SAR, other AML requirements

Tweets by CUNA_News

Polls

Will you ask employees to receive the coronavirus vaccine?

View Results
More

Champion of America’s Credit Unions

Credit Union National Association is the only national association that advocates on behalf of all of America’s credit unions. We work tirelessly to protect your best interests in Washington and all 50 states. We fuel your professional growth at every level and champion the credit union story at every turn.

More CUNA

  • About
  • Careers
  • Contact Us
  • Recommended Websites
  • Privacy Policy

Resources for

  • CUNA Board Members
  • Credit Union Advocates
  • Leagues
  • Press
  • Vendors