Principal-Agent Problem

Agency can lead to other issues as well, collectively known as the principal-agent problem, where the self-interest of the agent may lead to suboptimal results for the principal across a wide variety of circumstances. Politicians don't always act in the best interest of their constituents; real estate agents don't always act in the best interest of their sellers; financial brokers don't always act in the best interest of their clients; corporate management doesn't always act in the best interest of its shareholders—you get the idea. The agent's self-interest can trump the principal's interests.