Bankers say NCUA subordinated debt rule undermines credit union mission

The National Credit Union Administration board’s decision to allow low-income, complex, and new credit unions to issue subordinated debt is another sign that the industry is eroding the mission of the institutions, banking lobbyists charged this week.

“This rule is yet another example of the NCUA pushing the envelope and expanding credit union powers well beyond limits justifying the industry’s tax exemption,” Rebeca Romero Rainey, president/CEO of the Independent Community Bankers of America said Thursday.

The NCUA board approved a final rule Thursday allowing credit unions to issue subordinated debt for purposes of regulatory capital treatment.

Bankers blasted that rule when it initially was approved earlier this year and they continued that criticism after the final rule was issued.

 

continue reading »