BRIGHT HORIZONS
Fourth Quarter 2026
2 Message from our President & CEO
Deck the halls without breaking the bank Spoofing: Know the red flags
Shop the season with more joy and less financial stress Holiday expenses add up quickly. Fortunately, a few smart money moves can help you enjoy the season without putting unnecessary strain on your finances.
Create a budget One of the easiest ways to avoid overspending is to set a holiday budget before you start making purchases. Account for more than just gifts—travel, decorations, entertaining, dining out, and charitable giving can all impact your spending during the season.
Pay with a plan Some shoppers prefer using a debit card for holiday purchases, which can make it easier to monitor spending against available funds. Others may choose a credit card to take advantage of rewards or promotional offers. If you�d like to pay with credit, consider applying for a credit card with a 0% introductory APR.¹ Eligible purchases made during the promotional period can be paid off over time without interest, helping you spread out holiday expenses while keeping more cash available for other needs. Once your new card is in hand, add it to a digital wallet for a faster checkout experience with an added layer of protection.² Discover how they work: gecreditunion.org/digital-wallets
Avoid high-interest payment methods Buy now, pay later (BNPL) offers can make holiday purchases feel more affordable, especially when paired with discounts or promotions. However, missed payments, fees, and overlapping repayment plans can add up quickly if you’re not careful. Before choosing a BNPL option, compare the terms, repayment requirements, and potential costs, not just the immediate savings. Knowing what you’ll owe and when can help you avoid budget strain later. Whatever your holiday plans, we’re here to help you make confident financial decisions with products and recommendations tailored to your needs. To get started, connect with a team member using one of the contact methods listed on page 4.
Holiday spending, made more rewarding New Visa Signature® cardholders enjoy 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers made within the first 60 days. After that, a variable APR of 14.24%–18.00% applies, based on creditworthiness.¹ Plus, earn a $200 welcome bonus.² To apply, scan the QR code or visit: gecreditunion.org/credit-card-offer
APR = Annual Percentage Rate. ¹Introductory APR: Offer valid for qualified borrowers only. Upon approved credit. Offer subject to change at any time. Purchases and balance transfers made in the first 60 days will have 0.00% introductory APR for 12 months. Existing GECU credit card/loan balances are not eligible for the introductory rate. After the introductory period, the APR will adjust to 14.24% - 18.00% based on creditworthiness. The APR may vary (increase or decrease) on a quarterly basis and is determined by adding our margin to the Prime Rate as published in The Wall Street Journal effective for the first day of January, April, July, and October of every year. ²Digital Wallets: Message and data rates may apply. Please contact your service provider for more details. ³Visa Signature Bonus Points: As a new Visa Signature cardholder, you have the opportunity to earn 20,000 bonus points upon making $2,500 in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening. The bonus points will be added to your reward point balance and will be identified as such on your statement, eStatement, or within Online Banking/mobile app. 92867_NEWSQ4_2026
gecreditunion.org l Fourth Quarter 2026
A message from our President and CEO It’s hard to believe we are already approaching the end of 2026. It seems like just yesterday we were welcoming a new year, and now the holiday season is right around the corner. As we enter the final months of the year, I encourage you to remain vigilant against scams and fraud, which often increase throughout the holidays. As always, your Credit Union is here to provide guidance, resources, and insights to help protect your finances (learn more on page 4 of this newsletter). Just as it’s important to safeguard your finances, it’s equally vital to approach holiday spending and year-end plans with peace of mind. Building healthy savings habits throughout the year can help create a stronger financial foundation, which is especially important in today’s evolving economic environment. That’s one of the reasons why we launched our first-ever Save & Win Challenge during the first half of the year. The challenge, which ran from January to June, encouraged members to make saving a priority while promoting positive financial habits. Nearly 4,000 qualifying participants earned entries to win monthly cash prizes totaling $11,400, saving a net total of more than $3.15 million. One member shared how the challenge helped turn a financial goal into reality:
We are making strategic investments to enhance your member experience. “I started saving a travel fund at the beginning of 2026. I was able to book two trips for fall of 2027. By the time the rest of the money is due next year, I will have saved enough to pay in full from my fund.” – Carol M. This certainly wasn’t our last Save & Win Challenge. Stay tuned for future opportunities to make saving fun and rewarding. Beyond helping members achieve their financial goals, we remain committed to strengthening the communities we serve. We actively seek opportunities to identify local needs and develop initiatives that connect our organization, team members, and community partners in meaningful ways. Through our sponsorships, we have supported organizations including: St. Vincent de Paul of Northern Kentucky, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Butler County, Our Daily Bread, New Life Furniture Bank, Pink Ribbon Good, and Animal Friends Humane Society. Coupled with the dedication of our team members through GECU Cares volunteer efforts, we have partnered with more than 70 organizations throughout the Tri-State. By deepening community relationships and focusing on where
GECU presents: HallZOOween
Use your exclusive member discount and visit us during HallZOOween at the Cincinnati Zoo! You’ll enjoy trick-or-treat stations and more family fun. Scan the QR code and at checkout, use code:
HZWGECU Photo credit: Michelle Peters
Timothy D. Ballinger
we can make the greatest difference, we continue to create positive, lasting change across the region. We are also making strategic investments to enhance your member experience, including the development of a new GECU website. Whether you’re exploring products, seeking financial education, or managing important life milestones, the new site will make it easier to find the information and resources you need. With improved navigation, a modern design, and clearer content organization, the website will deliver a more seamless and intuitive experience. I’m excited to share we are also laying the groundwork for future branch expansion across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The first of several new branches will begin construction next year. Your confidence and trust inspire us every day, and we remain committed to helping you achieve your financial goals and providing the support needed along the way. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season, and I look forward to sharing more with you in the new year.
Holiday Closures Veterans Day Wednesday, November 11th Thanksgiving Day Thursday, November 26th Christmas Day Friday, December 25th New Year�s Day Friday, January 1st Our ITMs, Online Banking, and mobile app are available 24/7–even on holidays!
gecreditunion.org l Fourth Quarter 2026
Deck the halls without breaking the bank From spending cozy nights in to greeting guests for holiday celebrations, now is the perfect time to make your home picture perfect. With a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), you can affordably finance any project on your wish list and enjoy: Access to funds anytime for any expense Interest-only payments for 10 years No application fee, annual fee, or prepayment penalties
Limited-time offer 6-Month introductory offer
Standard rates as low as
Learn more by scanning the QR code or visiting: gecreditunion.org/heloc-intro
APR = Annual Percentage Rate. ¹Home Equity Line of Credit: APR introductory rate as low as 4.99% for 6-months after date of agreement and only available on new loans. Rate may be increased after consummation. After the introductory period, the APR is variable and subject to change every three months based on The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) Prime Rate. For lines of Credit of $50,000.00 or higher, the rate will adjust to WSJ Prime – 0.25%. For Lines of Credit up to $49,999.00 the rate will adjust to WSJ Prime – 0%. During adjustment periods, the rate cannot adjust by more than 3.00% from previous rate with a floor APR of 3.00% and a maximum APR of 18.00%. The APR assumes combined loan-to-value (CLTV) ratio of 90% or less, single family, primary residence, and first lien with GECU. The term is 20 years; a 10-year draw period with interest only payments followed by a 10-year repayment period with principal plus interest, which may increase monthly payments. Consult a tax advisor for deductibility of interest. No application fee, closing costs, or pre-payment penalty. Property insurance required. Interest rate effective as of 1.12.2026. Subject to credit approval. Additional terms, fees, and conditions may apply. Introductory offer, rates, and terms accurate as of 8.24.2026 and are subject to change at any time without notice. For questions, concerns, current rates, or details, contact us at: 800.542.7093. NMLS #449875
Supporting local students and their families Since 2021, GECU has supported Beech Acres Parenting Center�s Equip-a-Kid campaign. This year, we�re proud to announce our team members donated 126 backpacks filled with school supplies.
The backpacks and school supplies for kids, therapy supplies for our school-based therapists, and hygiene supplies for families help reduce stress for families and ensure children have the support and resources they need to succeed. We are grateful for GECU�s generous support of children and families in our community! – Tracy Nath, Development Specialist
@General Electric Credit Union
Stay cozy, stay connected. Schedule a virtual visit!
New! Real-time credit monitoring alerts
Avoid the cold and visit with us from home. Learn more: gecreditunion.org/virtual-branch
For details, visit Online Banking or our mobile app.¹
By scheduling a virtual appointment, you agree to Video Terms of Use. Visit: gecreditunion.org/appointment for full details.
SavvyMoney® is a registered trademark of SavvyMoney, Inc. ¹Online Banking/Mobile App: We provide Online Banking and our mobile app to you for free; however, mobile and internet data charges may apply. Contact your service provider for details.
Spoofing: Know the red flags
Scammers are especially active during the holiday season, often using spoofing tactics to disguise their phone number, email address, or text message and make it appear as if it came from a trusted source. Before sending money or sharing personal information, GECU Vice President of Fraud Bill Lantry suggests watching out for these red flags: Unexpected calls, texts, or emails requesting money or personal information Messages claiming immediate action is required Contact information that looks familiar but seems suspicious If something doesn�t feel right, pause and verify the request through a trusted source.
Bill Lantry Vice President of Fraud General Electric Credit Union
For more tips on recognizing scams and protecting your finances, explore insights from GECU Vice President of Fraud Bill Lantry. Scan the QR code or visit: gecreditunion.org/holiday-scams
Review your contact information and account beneficiaries
Apply for a Board of Director position
As the year comes to a close, it�s a great time to review your information and make sure everything is up to date. Having the correct contact information on file allows us to send you important communications about your accounts. Review and update your information in Online Banking or our mobile app,¹ or with the help of a GECU team member. Review your beneficiary designations across accounts to ensure they still reflect your intentions. To update your designations, schedule a virtual or in-branch appointment by scanning the QR code or visiting: gecreditunion.org/appointments
Make an impact and volunteer by applying for a Board of Director position! Candidates must be:
At least 25 years old An active member in good standing for at least three years Applications must be dropped off or postmarked to a GECU location by 5 pm on October 23rd. Scan the QR code to learn more.
¹Online Banking/Mobile App: We provide Online Banking and our mobile app to you for free; however, mobile and internet data charges may apply. Contact your service provider for details.
View our latest
Financial Statement Scan the QR code or visit: gecreditunion.org/financials Follow us for the latest Credit Union news:
Contact us
In-branch or virtual appointments Visit: gecreditunion.org/appointments to learn more and schedule today.
Member Services 513.243.4328 l 800.542.7093 memberservices@gecreditunion.org
Access your accounts
Hours Mon – Thur: 8 am – 5 pm, Fri: 8 am – 6 pm, Sat: 9 am – 2 pm
Secure Online Banking and Mobile App Visit: gecreditunion.org or download the app for Apple® or Android™.
Routing Number: 2420-7682-1
Branch and ITM/ATM locations gecreditunion.org/locations
Secure Chat Send us a Secure Chat from our website, Online Banking, or our mobile app.
Bright Horizons is published quarterly by GECU for its members. Availability, terms, and rates of services are current at press time; however, they are subject to change as determined by the Credit Union Board of Directors without prior notice. Questions about the newsletter should be directed to the Marketing Department at: communications@gecreditunion.org.
Insured by NCUA Equal Opportunity Lender GECU NMLS #449875
Navigate your financial goals with a trusted partner GECU Wealth Management offers guidance, strategies, and resources to navigate every stage of your journey.
Financial planning
College funding
Social Security
Wealth management
Retirement saving
Long-term care
Investment advice
Legacy planning
Healthcare and Medicare
A wealth advisor can answer your financial questions and give you confidence in your path forward. Start with a free, no‑obligation initial consultation.
See reverse to learn more about working with a wealth advisor
92867_GECU_WM_Q4_2026
What to expect when meeting with a wealth advisor As designated fiduciaries, GECU Wealth Management advisors prioritize your best interest, helping you achieve your goals. Connect: Share the financial priorities or goals on your mind. Collaborate: Review strategies and options to create a customized plan. Empower: Feel confident in your decisions with professional guidance. Nurture: Regularly assess your plan to ensure it evolves with your needs.
Learn more about our wealth advisors and schedule your free consultation at:
grecreditunion.org/wealthmanagement
Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. General Electric Credit Union and GECU Wealth Management are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using GECU Wealth Management, and are employees of LPL. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, General Electric Credit Union or GECU Wealth Management. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:
not insured by ncua or any other government agency
not credit union guaranteed
not credit union deposits or obligations
may lose value