Agent Explained: Legal, Financial & Insurance Roles and Agency Theory
Agent Introduction The term “agent” holds powerful significance across legal, financial, and commercial domains. At its core, an agent is a person or entity authorized to act on behalf of another , commonly referred to as the principal . This relationship forms the foundation of countless transactions, services, and contracts in the modern world. From real estate and insurance to law, finance, and corporate governance , the concept of agency plays a vital role in ensuring that principals can delegate tasks while maintaining a layer of legal protection and accountability. What Is an Agent? An agent is someone who has been appointed by a principal to act on their behalf , often to perform tasks that the principal cannot or chooses not to carry out directly. This agent is legally bound by a fiduciary duty —meaning they must prioritize the principal’s best interests in all matters related to the agency. Key Concept : The agent’s authority can be express , implied , or apparent , depend...