A transfer agent is a financial institution or individual responsible for maintaining records of investors' ownership of securities, such as stocks and bonds, and facilitating the transfer of these securities between buyers and sellers. They play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and accurate transfer of securities during buying, selling, or gifting transactions. Transfer agents help companies and investors by managing the administrative tasks related to securities ownership, such as issuing and cancelling certificates, distributing dividends, and handling shareholder inquiries. Their primary goal is to maintain accurate records of ownership and transactions to ensure transparency and efficiency in the financial markets.