In a sign of continued consolidation within the credit union sector, two separate mergers were announced recently involving institutions in Maryland and Indiana — moves aimed at expanding services, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing member value.

In Maryland, Point Breeze Credit Union of Hunt Valley and Central Credit Union of Maryland, based in Baltimore, unveiled plans to merge, pending regulatory and member approvals. The combined organization will retain the Point Breeze name and manage approximately $1billion in assets.

"This merger is about creating more value and convenience for members," said Tonia Niedzialkowski, President and CEO of Point Breeze. "Together, we can offer more locations, better rates, and enhanced digital tools — all while maintaining the friendly, personalized service that makes banking less complicated."

With just $43 million in assets, Central Credit Union of Maryland will significantly expand its reach and resources through the merger. Lisa Jester, its President and CEO, called the move "a win-win that positions us to grow together."

The merger is expected to close in early 2026.

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Meanwhile, in Indiana, Fort Financial Credit Union and INOVA Federal Credit Union announced their intention to merge into a newly branded institution: INOVA Financial Credit Union. The deal will combine Fort Financial's $359 million in assets with INOVA's $678 million, creating a $1 billion credit union serving more than 70,000 members across Indiana and Mississippi.

"This is about two strong credit unions coming together to become even stronger," said Jeff Leichty, Chairman of the Board at Fort Financial. The merger will preserve all existing branch locations and leadership teams, with Dallas Bergl of INOVA slated to serve as CEO and Steve Collins of Fort Financial as President of the combined entity.

Like the Maryland merger, the Indiana deal is expected to close in early 2026, pending approvals. Both partnerships reflect a broader strategy across the industry: scale up to better compete in a rapidly evolving financial landscape, while preserving the member-first ethos that distinguishes credit unions from traditional banks.

The National Credit Union Administration approved 45 mergers during the second quarter of 2025, one fewer than the regulator approved at the same time last year. During the first quarter of 2025, 35 consolidations were green lighted.

"We are not changing who we are, we are building on what we've already achieved to deliver even more for our members. This merger is a true partnership, grounded in mutual respect, shared vision, and a deep-rooted commitment to our communities."

 – Steve Collins
President & CEO
Fort Financial Credit Union