A trust company is a financial institution that acts as a fiduciary, managing assets on behalf of individuals or organizations. They provide services such as estate planning, investment management, and the administration of trusts. Trust companies ensure that the assets are managed according to the wishes of the trust creator, often referred to as the grantor. These companies are regulated by state or federal laws and must adhere to strict fiduciary standards. Trust companies can also serve as executors of estates, handling the distribution of assets after a person's death. This helps to simplify the process for beneficiaries and ensures compliance with legal requirements.