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A mercantile agent, also known as a factor, is an individual who has the authority to buy or sell goods, consign goods for sale, or raise money by pledging goods on behalf of their principal. This type of agency is a key aspect of business organization, where distinct assets are legally separate from the personal assets of those involved. A mercantile agency can also refer to an organization that gathers and provides credit information about businesses and individuals to its subscribers.123

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