Like the credit cooperatives, credit unions form associations of a higher level, which are called corporate credit unions. Credit union is created by a group of members who pursue a common interest. Agreeing to make regular contributions, they create a fund from which can borrow money for investments and replenishment of working capital at favorable interest rates. Until the 70's there was a proliferation of the U.S. credit unions due to the increase of their number and the number of shareholders, although it must be acknowledged that there was also and a qualitative growth. Credit union as a consumer cooperative operates on the principles of equality of all its members. Worldwide credit union movement is represented by regional confederations and national organizations within the World Council of Credit Unions. Corporate alliances are intermediaries between credit unions and financial markets.