How are commercial banks and credit unions different?

Commercial banks are for-profit institutions that focus on maximizing shareholder value, offering a wide range of financial services, including loans, mortgages, and investment products. In contrast, credit unions are non-profit cooperatives owned by their members, providing services primarily to those within their community or membership group. This structure often allows credit unions to offer lower fees and better interest rates. Additionally, while commercial banks are regulated by various federal and state agencies, credit unions are typically regulated by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).