What is a common feature of credit unions compared to traditional banks?

Credit unions are characterized by their non-profit status and member-driven approach. This means that instead of prioritizing shareholder profits like traditional banks, credit unions focus on serving their members' interests. This structure allows credit unions to often offer better interest rates on loans and savings accounts, as well as lower fees for services. Members typically have a say in the operations and decisions of the credit union, further emphasizing the member-centered ethos.

In contrast, other options highlight attributes that are generally not associated with credit unions. For instance, credit unions usually charge lower fees compared to traditional banks, making them typically more cost-effective for consumers. Additionally, credit unions usually provide competitive loan rates, which can often be more favorable than those of traditional banks, making the claim of "less favorable loan rates" inaccurate. Furthermore, membership in a credit union is often based on specific eligibility criteria, which contradicts the idea of operating without any membership requirements.