A survey conducted by Advance Funds Network reveals that handshake agreements remain vital in several Alabama cities, particularly Jasper, Fairhope, and Muscle Shoals. Jasper is ranked 10th in the nation for informal business deals, attributed to its tight-knit community where reputation plays a crucial role. Fairhope, known for its vibrant local identity and arts scene, ranks 13th, while Muscle Shoals, with its musical heritage and strong local ties, is positioned at 25th. The survey indicates that 32% of small business owners believe trust has diminished over time, but smaller towns like those in Alabama continue to foster a culture of trust and personal relationships. Irving Betesh, Chief Revenue Officer of Advance Funds Network, emphasized that while contracts are important, trust is often established long before any formal agreement is made. The top-ranked city, Greenville, Tennessee, is noted for its historic downtown and community spirit, followed by Oxford, Mississippi, and Mountain Home, Arkansas.