By CUEvangelist – published originally at CUInsight.com – September 2, 2025
For decades, credit unions have proudly lived by the philosophy of “People Helping People.” This simple phrase has captured the spirit of member cooperation, community, and care that sets credit unions apart from traditional banks and other financial companies. But with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), some may ask: will the cooperative motto of the future change to “AI Helping People”?
Just picture this, instead of standing in line waiting for a fellow human being to assist, members may be greeted by an AI driven robot that can provide the means for members to deposit and withdraw money, open an account, or close on a loan. As a matter of fact, AI is already being used in banking through ATMs, chatbots and online assistants. As such, the next step in banking may be robot AI tellers.
Right before our eyes, AI robots are being introduced into society at a rapid pace. They are used in Denny’s restaurants as mobile waiters, in education as tutors, and most recently in China scientists are experimenting with robots as surrogate vehicles used to birth babies. Without a doubt, it is conceivable that robot AI tellers could provide a level of service at credit unions on behalf of members processing transactions with greater accuracy and efficiency and at a substantially reduced cost.
The shift from “People Helping People” to “AI Helping People” will certainly be a philosophical debate. However, that doesn’t mean that credit unions should abandon AI or community values in support of AI pursuits. Rather, the use of AI should be embraced as a tool to serve members better.
As a matter of fact, AI is likely to spot fraud faster than any human, determine more effectively if money is counterfeit, analyze spending to offer smart budgeting tips, and even provide financial education in multiple languages. For members who may not have easy access to in-person help, AI can become an extension of the credit union’s mission, making financial services accessible to all.
Still, credit unions must be careful. If everything becomes automated, members may feel disconnected. Additionally, AI may adopt biases that could negatively impact certain member segments. That said, the true challenge will be striking a balance between letting AI handle tasks that are best suited for machines while keeping people at the center of decision-making and relationships.
For the future, AI shouldn’t replace the spirit of the credit union movement. Rather it should amplify it. If used wisely, AI technology and robots can turn “People Helping People” into “AI Helping People,” while maintaining the same mission of trust, care, and community into the digital age.
Mark S. Brantley, Esq. is currently known as the CUEvangelist – “Spreading the Good News About CUs!” Mark is also an Asst. Director of Operations at Arizona State University and was the former vice-chairman of the AACUC, former board member of America’s Credit Unions (formerly CUNA), and former Chairman of the Municipal Credit Union. He has written numerous articles and white papers on credit union advocacy, legislative, and regulatory matters.