Under the Alabama Title Insurance Act, the term premium includes any amount retained by or paid to an agent under agreement with which entity?

Under the Alabama Title Insurance Act, the term "premium" specifically encompasses any amount that is retained by or paid to an agent under an agreement with a title insurance company. This reflects the regulatory framework that governs the financial transactions and compensation structures within the title insurance industry. The definition ensures clarity regarding how the premium is accounted for, including any commissions or fees that agents might receive in connection with the issuance of title insurance policies.

By focusing on the relationship between agents and title insurance companies, the law aims to standardize and regulate the way premiums are handled to maintain transparency in the industry. Such regulation is important as it protects consumers and ensures that premiums are used appropriately within the title insurance process. Other entities mentioned do not have the same direct relationship with premium transactions as title insurance companies do, which is why they are not included in this context.