MADISON–Filene said its next research initiative—the Center of Excellence on All Things Payments—will launch in early 2026.
“This new research center will address the rapidly shifting payments landscape, exploring how credit unions can respond to emerging consumer behaviors, new technologies, and competitive pressures in real-time, digital-first environments,” Filene said.
According to the research institute, the key focus areas that this new research center will explore includes:
- Understanding how cutting-edge innovations in payments are shaping consumer expectations
- Understanding the evolving strategies of payments and its impact on credit unions in the overall financial services landscape
- Exploring how credit unions can leverage payment data to create personalized, value-added services that enhance member loyalty and drive growth
- Understanding the implications of new payments technologies on existing core systems and what credit unions can do to future-proof their technology stacks
- Identifying the most effective approaches to mitigate fraud risks while maintaining seamless payment experiences in an increasingly digital ecosystem
SchoolsFirst FCU is First Sponsor
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union in California has committed as a founding sponsor, Filene said.
“Payments have quickly transformed into the center of our members’ financial lives, and we at SchoolsFirst FCU are thrilled to be among the pioneering sponsors of the Center for All Things Payments,” Amy Hsu, SVP-payments, security and fraud at SchoolsFirst FCU, said in a statement. “This is more than just an opportunity for us; it’s a commitment to innovation and excellence. We are eager to share our insights, learn and collaborate with like-minded visionaries to ensure the Center’s success. Together, we aim to empower credit unions to take the lead in revolutionizing the way members interact with payments, making their financial journeys seamless, personal and more secure.”