Private Banking Defined

At SmartBank, private banking is more than just a service, it’s a relationship built on trust, expertise, and a deep understanding of what matters most to you. Whether you're navigating complex financial decisions, seeking tailored solutions, or simply looking for a more seamless banking experience, our team is here to provide the personalized attention you deserve. Your goals drive our strategy, and our commitment to proactive, client-first service ensures that you have the right resources at the right time.



In this edition, we’re sharing insights that can help you make the most of your financial strategy. You’ll find a link to our Q4 financials, along with details on an innovative commercial deposit account that lets you maximize the value of your balances through interest and earnings credit. Your banker can break down how this works and how it can benefit your business. As always, our team is here to ensure you have access to solutions designed to support your success both today and in the future.

Rachael Meurrier, SVP &

Director of Private Banking

Google is Not Your Banker

In today's digital age, we rely on the internet for answers to almost every question imaginable. Need to know how to fix a leaky faucet? Google it. Want to learn how to cook a new recipe? Google it. But when it comes to banking advice, relying solely on Google may not be the wisest choice.

Google is a powerful tool for gathering information, but it falls short when it comes to providing personalized guidance tailored to your specific financial situation. Here are a few reasons why Google is not your banker:

• Lack of Context: When you search for financial advice on Google, you're presented with a vast array of information, but it's often generic and lacking in context. What works for one person may not be suitable for another, and Google doesn't take into account the nuances of your individual financial goals and circumstances.

• Overwhelm of Information: The sheer volume of information available on the internet can be overwhelming. Sorting through search results and trying to discern which sources are reliable can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to something as important as your finances.

• Bias and Misinformation: Not all information on the internet is accurate or unbiased. Search engine algorithms are designed to prioritize popular or frequently searched content, which may not always be the most reliable or credible source of information. Additionally, anyone can publish content online, regardless of their expertise or qualifications, leading to the spread of misinformation.

• Lack of Accountability: When you turn to Google for banking advice, there's no accountability or follow-up. You're left to interpret the information on your own and make decisions without the guidance of a trusted advisor who understands your unique financial situation.

• Missing Human Element: Perhaps the most significant drawback of relying on Google for banking advice is the absence of the human element. A dedicated banker not only provides expertise and guidance but also offers empathy, understanding, and support during times of financial uncertainty or decision-making.

At SmartBank, we believe that banking is more than just transactions – it's about building relationships based on trust, understanding, and personalized guidance. When you choose SmartBank, you gain access to a dedicated private banker who knows you by name and is committed to helping you achieve your financial goals.

So, the next time you're tempted to turn to Google for banking advice, remember that personalized guidance from a dedicated banker is irreplaceable. With SmartBank, you're not just banking – you're building a relationship that puts your financial success first.

SmartBank Birmingham Welcomes Private Banker, Todd Shafer

Todd Shafer, Senior Vice President, Private Banker, has joined the Birmingham, Alabama team.



With over two decades of experience in the financial services industry, including 17 years in private banking, Todd brings extensive expertise in lending, deposit strategies, treasury management, wealth management and mortgage solutions to SmartBank.  His skills enhance our high-performing teams and strengthen the bank’s ability to serve clients in the Birmingham market.

Adrianne K. Carroll Joins SmartBank as Private Banker

Adrianne K. Carroll has joined the team as a Private Banker in Chattanooga, Tennessee. In this role, Adrianne will use her extensive experience in consumer and commercial lending to provide customized financial solutions for SmartBank’s Private clients.

Adrianne brings over 28 years of experience in the financial industry, most recently serving as Relationship Manager, Vice President, and CRA Liaison. She has also held leadership positions at various financial institutions, gaining expertise in retail banking management, team development, and client relations.

SmartBank Franklin Welcomes Private Banker Megan Ganschow

Megan Ganschow joins the Franklin Private Banking team.

Megan brings over a decade of banking experience and a deep understanding of the local market to SmartBank. In her previous role as a wealth advisor, she excelled in client relationship management and business development. Ganschow holds an MBA in Sports Management from Lipscomb University and a Bachelor of Science in Human and Organizational Development from Vanderbilt University.

The Power of a Primary Bank

SmartBank Private Banking Team

In today’s financial landscape, it’s easy to be drawn in by ads promoting slightly higher interest rates or small incentives to move your deposits. Whether it’s a social media campaign, a TV spot, or a mailer promising a fraction of a percent more on a savings account, these offers can create a fragmented banking experience. While a 0.25% rate increase might seem like a win in the short term, it’s important to consider the bigger picture—especially when it comes to long-term financial goals.

At SmartBank, relationships still matter. We take a holistic approach, considering your full financial picture rather than viewing each account in isolation. For example, many of our lending solutions provide benefits when payments are automatically deducted from a SmartBank account. Business owners may also see advantages when we evaluate overall deposit relationships as part of pricing considerations. That means shifting funds to chase a marginal rate increase could unintentionally limit future opportunities for preferential loan structures or tailored financial solutions.

But a strong banking relationship isn’t just about rates. At SmartBank, we offer more than just loans and deposits—we provide a full suite of banking solutions, including treasury management, insurance, and investment planning. By consolidating your banking needs with a partner who understands your complete financial picture, you gain more than just convenience—you gain a team committed to delivering value when it matters most.