By Paul Peduto

For the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (the Bank) to be more competitive in the wholesale-funding marketplace, it must provide a reliable source of funds at an attractive price.

But price means different things to different members. The most obvious meaning is rate, but other factors also come into play. Capital stock, dividends, collateral, quality of service, financial analysis, and ease of use all enter into the overall price, some positively and some negatively, compared with the competition.

The Bank is currently undertaking a companywide effort to increase its understanding of the kind of products and services members want from us. What is the proper balance of the components of price? Are we offering the right products? Do we make them understandable and easy to use? Our goal, in short, is to make the Bank more competitive.

Recognizing that member input is crucial to the effectiveness of our organization, the Bank will be sending out teams of employees to visit a cross-section of member institutions during January. As in the past, member input will be helpful in making both short- and long-term changes. We look forward to including your expertise and experience in the development of new products, more attractive pricing, and collateral and capital requirements that make it easier for you to do business with the Bank.

For more information about Bank products and services, please contact me at 617-292-9762, or call John Baity at 617-292-9710; David Birkins at 617-292-9617; or Steve McHugh at 617-292-9616.

Paul M. Peduto is first vice president / sales and business development at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston.