What is the essence of an agency relationship?

The essence of an agency relationship lies in the delegation of authority, which allows one party, the agent, to act on behalf of another party, the principal. This relationship is fundamental in various business contexts, where the principal might not be available to make decisions or execute tasks directly. By empowering the agent with the authority to perform specific duties, the principal can efficiently manage operations, capitalize on expertise, or deal with matters in a timely manner without being physically present.

This delegation often includes granting rights to make decisions, enter agreements, and fulfill obligations, which helps streamline processes and promotes effective communication between the principal and third parties. Thus, the agency relationship serves to enhance business functionality and facilitate smooth operations, making the delegation of authority its core characteristic.