Dear Friends,
Banking is a highly regulated industry. Each day bankers across the country are challenged to creatively meet the ever-evolving needs of their customers while navigating thousands of rules and regulations intended to protect the public and overall integrity of our banking system.
While primary banking activity involves the receiving of deposits and the granting of loans, there are many different types of banks in the United States. There are community banks, super community banks serving several communities, regional banks generally serving several states, money center banks, and several mega banks serving most of the country and beyond.
In many respects, banking is somewhat seen as a commodity business where, regardless of size, banks are compared in financial terms by the same metrics such as return on equity, return on assets, interest margin, credit quality, efficiency ratios, etc.
Here at TowneBank, we like to think there is more to banking than strictly a set of comparative metrics. Yes, we have "good numbers." In fact, Forbes rates us as one of the Best Banks in America. But that is not what inspires us.
Our Towne family is immersed in a culture of caring where we strive to have our members feel a strong sense of belonging regardless of their status in life. We are a company built on passion and emotion.
We don't play follow the leader in the banking world. We march to our own tune of serving others and enriching lives no matter the form it may take.
We believe in the power of partnership among our shareholders, our members, our Towne family, and the communities we serve.
We believe the Towne brand should stand for the value we deliver to the community.
We believe in having a deep understanding of each community we serve and a thoughtful approach to what Towne can do to make it better.
We believe in and love winning! Yes, we give a pat on the back and recognize effort. But we believe the trophies go only to the winners.
We believe in community banking and the power of friendship deepened by an emotional connection with our members and the communities we serve.
We believe that we are blessed with not only the best bankers but the most extraordinary and caring people you could ever imagine. They are here for you!
We are thankful and grateful for your support of our Towne family and the privilege of serving you.
Sincerely,
G. Robert Aston, Jr.
Executive Chairman