What is the "duty to account" in Maryland agency relations?

The "duty to account" in Maryland agency relations refers specifically to the obligation of agents to provide their principals with a complete and accurate accounting of any funds or property they handle on behalf of the principal. This duty ensures transparency and trust in the relationship between the agent and the principal, allowing the principal to understand exactly what has been received, spent, or managed by the agent. It requires agents to maintain detailed records and render accounts so that principals can verify the transactions and assess the agent's performance in managing their assets or interests.

This duty is fundamental in agency relationships because it upholds the principles of accountability and fidelity to the principal's interests, allowing the principal to be informed about the financial aspects related to their affairs. The other concepts presented in the choices do not accurately reflect the essence of the "duty to account," as they relate to different aspects of an agent's responsibilities, such as confidentiality, market updates, or personal profit disclosures, but do not specifically address the need for precise financial reporting.