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February 1, 2022

Raymond James Financial Institutions Division welcomes new advisor team with SmartBank managing over $350 million in assets

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. Raymond James Financial Institutions Division (FID) welcomed financial advisors Thomas Montz, Amanda Montz and Nathan Novotny to SmartBank Investment Services, a subsidiary of SmartFinancial, and a current FID-affiliated branch, according to Tim Killgoar, senior vice president and FID national director. As part of an expansion of SmartBank Investment Services, the advisors will offer financial planning and wealth management services to clients through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC.

 

The advisor trio was previously affiliated with BBVA Compass Investment Solutions where they collectively managed over $350 million in client assets. Together, they will lead their six-person wealth management team through a new SmartBank branch in Mobile, Alabama.

 

“I’m confident that this transition will allow us to elevate the experience of current clients, while innovating and growing through the robust wealth management strategies and technology available to us at Raymond James,” said Thomas Montz, senior vice president for SmartBank Investment Services.

 

An industry veteran with over 30 years of experience, Thomas Montz joined BBVA in 1989 from Pamco Securities and Services. He is a graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University with a bachelor’s degree in finance and marketing.

 

Based in Fairhope, Alabama, Amanda Montz began her career with BBVA in 2000 where she stayed until this recent transition. She earned her associate’s degree in business administration from Faulkner State Community College and attended the University of Alabama.

 

“Not only does Raymond James provide access to a full spectrum of investment management resources, but it also embraces flexibility so we can continue to serve our clients how we always have - by putting their best interest first,” said Amanda Montz, senior vice president.

 

Prior to BBVA, Novotny was a financial advisor at Morgan Stanley, Hancock Investment Services and later Pruco Securities. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of West Florida.

 

“It’s a pleasure to welcome Thomas, Amanda and Nathan to Raymond James’ Financial Institutions Division,” said Killgoar. “SmartBank is a highly respected institution that provides excellent, relationship-driven service in the communities it serves. I’m proud that they continue to find Raymond James’ leading-edge strategies, technology and support to be the best fit for their advisors.”

 

About About the Financial Institutions Division

The Financial Institutions Division was established by Raymond James in 1987 to provide banks and credit unions with an alternative to traditional third-party investment providers. Raymond James provides full-service securities brokerage and advisory services to financial institutions seeking to compete with the largest banks and securities firms in the country. In addition to a full complement of investment products and services, Raymond James has the ability to deliver investment banking, public finance, research, self-clearing capabilities and wealth management services to both individuals and institutions.

About Raymond James Financial Services
Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. is a financial services firm supporting independent financial advisors nationwide. Since 1974, Raymond James Financial Services Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, has provided a wide range of investment and wealth planning related services through its affiliate, Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. Both broker/dealers are wholly owned subsidiaries of Raymond James Financial, Inc. (NYSE-RJF) a leading diversified financial services company with approximately 8,500 financial advisors throughout the United States, Canada and overseas. Total client assets are $1.26 trillion.

About SmartFinancial, Inc.
SmartFinancial, Inc., based in Knoxville, Tennessee, is the bank holding company for SmartBank.  Founded in 2007, SmartBank is a full-service commercial bank, with branches across Tennessee, Alabama and the Florida Panhandle. Recruiting the best people, delivering exceptional client service, strategic branching and acquisitions, and a disciplined approach to lending have contributed to SmartBank’s success. More information about SmartFinancial can be found on its website: www.smartfinancialinc.com.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, and are not insured by bank insurance, the FDIC or any other government agency, are not deposits or obligations of the bank, are not guaranteed by the bank, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal. SmartFinancial, Inc., SmartBank, and SmartBank Investment Services are not registered broker/dealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.