For more than 200 years, private money systems have operated in the United States, solving problems similar to those confronting innovative electronic money systems. The high-tech newcomers may be able to benefit from the experience of the low-tech veterans.

An introduction to the credit union industry's structure and regulatory environment, offering a brief look at some safety and soundness issues.

An exploration of the issues that must be addressed if stored-value cards and other electronic money systems are to be major payment mechanisms in the global financial market.

Although the cashless society that has been predicted for at least 20 years has not yet materialized, the new forms of card- and software-based electronic money may be a partial alternative to current forms of payments. This paper examines some of the factors that will influence the adoption of...