First Entertainment Credit Union has partnered with banking technology firm Nymbus to launch CineFi, the first fully digital credit union exclusively designed for entertainment industry professionals in the Atlanta area. The launch marks a strategic expansion for the Los Angeles-based institution, which has served film and television professionals for over 60 years.
CineFi targets TV, film, music, gaming, content creation, and influencer professionals, addressing a significant gap in financial services for creatives who face unique financial challenges including variable income, freelance work, gig-based employment, and project-based payments. Membership extends to individuals living or working in either the Atlanta metropolitan area or Los Angeles County, California, as well as members of the L.A.-based nonprofit Filmmakers Alliance.
"Credit unions are looking for new ways to drive growth and differentiate themselves in competitive markets while also delivering unique services to members," said Jeffery Kendall, Chairman and CEO of Nymbus. "Our vertical banking solutions enable credit unions like First Entertainment Credit Union to quickly launch specialized offerings that serve unique segments, create new revenue streams, and build more connected film and TV communities."
The digital platform offers premium financial products including round-up savings on debit card purchases, high-yield checking and savings accounts, direct deposits up to two days early, no account fees, access to more than 33,000 surcharge-free ATMs, and ATM surcharge rebates. The user experience is specifically designed to accommodate the unpredictable cash flow patterns common among entertainment professionals.
Stephen Owen, President and CEO of First Entertainment Credit Union and CineFi, stated: "Nymbus has been instrumental in bringing our vision for CineFi to life. We exist to help the entertainment and creative communities thrive with their finances. Our partnership with Nymbus has enabled us to create a truly digital-first experience that serves our community's specific needs wherever they may go for work. This represents the future of specialized banking—combining deep industry knowledge with innovative technology."
The launch reflects broader geographic shifts in the entertainment industry, as production companies increasingly relocate from Los Angeles to Atlanta due to Georgia's attractive tax incentives for film and television production. Dylan Lerner, Senior Analyst for Digital Banking at Javelin Strategy, noted that launching a digital brand enables First Entertainment to efficiently expand its geographic footprint without the costs associated with physical branches.
"L.A. is losing a lot of business in the entertainment industry," Lerner explained. "A lot of them are moving to Atlanta, as Georgia is making it more attractive for tax reasons. This might be a broader strategic play from a banking/credit union perspective of following the members and following their deposits."
Beyond banking services, CineFi commits to strengthening the entertainment community by supporting industry nonprofits, schools, organizations, festivals, and events. All CineFi accounts are held at and insured by First Entertainment Credit Union through the National Credit Union Administration.
First Entertainment Credit Union, headquartered in Hollywood, California, manages more than $2 billion in assets and provides banking services through branches at Warner Bros., Sony, and Paramount studio locations in Los Angeles County. The credit union reported $6.73 million in net income for Q3 2025, representing a 19% increase year-over-year.
As a fully digital credit union, CineFi's services are available nationwide, giving members anywhere access to accounts, ATMs, and digital banking tools designed specifically for the entertainment industry's unique financial landscape.