Celebrating the Credit Union Difference on International Credit Union Day

First Credit Union is preparing to join credit unions around the world in celebrating
International Credit Union Day (ICU Day) on Thursday 15 October, recognising the positive
impact credit unions have on members, families and communities both locally and globally.

Celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October since 1948, International Credit Union
Day shines a spotlight on the credit union movement and the cooperative values that make
credit unions different. The day acknowledges the role credit unions play in helping people
achieve financial wellbeing through member-owned, not-for-profit financial services.

This year’s theme is Cooperative Finance: A Steady Signal in a Noisy World. In a world
filled with noise and constant change, credit unions provide something people can rely on.
As a member-owned cooperative, First Credit Union exists to serve its members and that’s
what being a steady signal means to us.

As the first country in the world to welcome the day due to our time zone, First Credit Union
leads the global celebrations.

Simon Scott, First Credit Union Chief Executive said International Credit Union Day is an
opportunity to celebrate First Credit Union’s members and its commitment to putting people
before profit.

“International Credit Union Day provides an opportunity to recognise and thank our members
for choosing First Credit Union, and for being part of a cooperative movement that puts
people first.”

To mark the occasion, First Credit Union will be hosting a range of member activities on
Thursday 15 October, members can also enjoy in-branch giveaways, while those following
First Credit Union on Facebook will have the chance to win prizes through special
International Credit Union Day competitions.

With over 60,000 credit unions in 93 countries and 420 million members worldwide, the
global movement continues to demonstrate that financial services can be built around
people, participation and community outcomes.

First Credit Union invites members and the wider community to join in celebrating
International Credit Union Day and the unique value of a member-owned financial
cooperative that supports its members in achieving their financial goals while giving back to
local communities.

Image: L-R: Rob Jones (from Virginia Credit Union, USA), Simon Scott (FCU Chief Executive) and Mike Reuter (President of the Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions) visiting the Hamilton branch of First Credit Union ahead of International Credit Union Day 2025