Performance Evaluation in Credit Unions: Comparison Between Different Systems

Abstract

Credit cooperativism is represented by financial institutions with particular characteristics, and for this reason there are specific performance evaluation models. This study used two indicators analysis systems: the PEARLS monitoring system and the Business Productivity Analysis (or, in Portuguese, Análise da Produtividade do Negócio – APN) system and aimed to comparatively analyze the structure of these two performance evaluation systems for credit unions. Empirically, to compare the models, real data from a credit union, Sicoob Credichapada, were applied. The results indicate that there is similarity between the two performance evaluation models, but that the APN has a greater range of indicators and information, indicating information on fees, registration data and comparative analysis between cooperatives of the same type or the same central. Thus, it is suggested that indicators of Effective Financial Structure of the PEARLS system be added to the assessment made by the APN, to assess performance in a broad way. The empirical application confirms the theoretical assessment and indicates that an analysis using these two systems provides a more complete analysis of the cooperative's performance and provides guidance on areas of assessment that may require greater attention from management. Among the contributions of this article, it can be highlighted the critical orientation on the analysis of the performance of credit unions, suggesting an adaptation to existing evaluation systems.