Cover for the August 2026 edition of the PYMNTS Intelligence and Velera Credit Union Innovation series. PYMNTS Intelligence reports on how rewards can help credit unions win more card spending, attract members and support lasting growth.

Better Rewards Could Win 32% of Consumers to Credit Unions

Credit Union Innovation Readiness: The Rewards Opportunity Credit Unions Can No Longer Ignore

PYMNTS Intelligence surveyed more than 18,000 consumers, businesses and financial executives to track demand for credit union rewards. The results reveal a costly gap between what members want and what many credit unions deliver.

Inside the August Playbook
  • Demand exceeds use: Sixty percent of multi-card users seek rewards, but only 14% use their credit union’s loyalty program.
  • Rewards can drive growth: Better rewards at credit unions could attract 32% of consumers and 30% of businesses.
  • Perception lags: Forty-five percent of credit union executives rate their rewards highly, but only 14% of members agree.

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