Lunar New Year: Ride Into Prosperity

January 26, 2026

Lunar New Year is a time of renewal, reflection, and bold new beginnings. Celebrated across many cultures, it marks the start of the lunar calendar and offers a chance to reset intentions - personally and financially.

In 2026, Lunar New Year begins on February 17 and ushers in the Year of the Horse - specifically the Fire Horse - a symbol of courage, action, independence, and forward momentum. It’s the perfect moment to take charge of your financial future, from short-term goals to long-term retirement planning.

One of the most well-known traditions is giving red envelopes, also known as 红包 (hongbao) in Chinese or lì xì (lee see) in Vietnamese. Typically given by parents, elders, or married adults to children and younger family members, they symbolize blessings and good fortune for the year ahead.

More than a gift of money, red envelopes can also be a reminder of healthy financial habits. Whether you’re giving or receiving them, consider setting aside a portion for savings, planning for upcoming expenses, and spending thoughtfully.

Ride Into Prosperity with USC Credit Union

Commemorative Year of the Horse Red Envelopes

To celebrate the Lunar New Year and the bold spirit of the Year of the Fire Horse, USC Credit Union has designed a special set of red envelopes for 2026. This year’s design features the iconic Traveler spirit mark - USC’s beloved horse mascot-depicted with a Trojan warrior riding forward, symbolizing strength, momentum, and prosperity.

"The design incorporates the 福 (fu) symbol, which represents blessings and good luck and is frequently used in commemorative designs,” shared Allen Zhao from USC Credit Union’s Business Intelligence team. The symbol reflects the hope for abundance, success, and positive beginnings in the year ahead.

USC Credit Union invites members and the USC community to pick up this year’s red envelopes at our branches on the University Park Campus and Health Sciences Campus. USC Credit Union members may receive a pack of eight red envelopes, while non-members may receive one. Red envelopes will be available from January 20 through February 25, while supplies last1.

IRA Certificate Special: 18-Month 4.00% APY2

This Lunar New Year, ride into the Year of the Horse by taking a confident step toward your retirement goals with USC Credit Union. Lock in a competitive 4.00% APY2 and enjoy a guaranteed return with our 18-month IRA Certificate. With just a $1,000 minimum deposit, you can start building long-term financial security today. Available as a Traditional or Roth IRA. Contact us to get started!

Request an IRA

12026 Lunar New Year red envelopes are available at any USC Credit Union branch from January 26, 2026 through February 20, 2026, while supplies last. USC Credit Union members may receive one pack of eight (8) envelopes; non-members may receive one (1) envelope.

2Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of 01/22/26. Fees may reduce earnings. Membership in USC Credit Union is required. Member must qualify for USC Credit Union membership. Please call (213) 821-7100 or visit www.USCCreditUnion.org to confirm eligibility. This 18-month IRA Certificate (Traditional or Roth) requires a minimum opening deposit of $1,000. Must be new money deposit from another financial institution. Existing USCCU funds not applicable. $1,000 minimum opening amount with no maximum deposit amount. There is no maximum deposit amount. Dividends are credited monthly. Dividends will not be earned if the IRA Certificate is closed before dividends are credited for the month. If a withdrawal of principal is made prior to the Maturity Date, the IRA Certificate will be closed and an early withdrawal penalty will be imposed on the entire balance in accordance with the Account Agreement. In addition, early withdrawals from an IRA may be subject to IRS penalties and income taxes. Consult a tax advisor for details. At maturity, the IRA Certificate will automatically renew into a 12-month IRA Certificate at the APY in effect at the time of renewal unless other instructions are provided during the applicable grace period. Any bonus rate offered on certificates of $50,000 or more does not apply to this promotional IRA Certificate, regardless of balance. Promotional offers may not be combined with any other offers, including PremiumSpend checking account benefits. Please refer to the Account Agreement and Truth-in-Savings Disclosures for additional information. All credit union programs, rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice.