Credit Union Grows in Challenging Financial Times

   Growth Attributed to Strong Capital Position and

Above-Industry Standard Insurance Offered to Today’s Uneasy Consumers

    La Habra, Calif., July 16, 2008—In spite of negative financial sector news reported from financial industry experts this week, American First Credit Union announced its steady 2008 growth statistics today. In the months reported from January to June 2008, American First’s loans grew $10.1 million, or 1.8 percent and deposits grew by $41.8 million, or 7.6 percent. American First executives attributed the growth to its strong (and well-above the minimum required) capital position as well as its members’ loyalty and trust in the financial strength and security of their locally-operated and member-owned credit union.

    As more and more consumers become concerned with their financial institution’s stability, American First continues to grow and prosper, by increasing its loans and deposits, adding a sixth branch in Fullerton, California later this year and continuing its above-industry standard account insurance offerings. American First, through the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), provides members with $100,000 of insurance backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are insured up to $250,000 by the NCUA. For added member security, American First also provides additional credit union-purchased insurance from American Share Insurance (ASI) that provides members supplemental IRA insurance up to $500,000.

    “As large banks, mortgage companies and financial institutions continue to face extraordinary challenges, American First Credit Union remains financially solid, ready and poised to meet our members’ financial needs, especially during these challenging financial times when they may need us most,” said Bob Street, American First President/CEO. “Our strong capital position and additional insurance offerings have increased member participation in our products and services and have attracted new members who are looking for the financial strength and stability our financial institution provides.”

    American First Credit Union (AFCU) is a member-owned, full-service financial cooperative established in 1952. It has five convenient Orange County branches, located in La Habra, Buena Park, Placentia, Orange and Tustin. AFCU has over $675 million in assets and serves more than 70,000 members. Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Orange County or 16 additional cities throughout the Greater Los Angeles area. To determine credit union eligibility, visit www.amerfirst.org or call 800/ 290-1112.

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