What is the ruling on working for a governmental financial institution in promoting insurance policies, while I own a private office that offers financial, banking, and insurance services? And what if the private office refers clients to the governmental institution where I work? And is it permissible to direct clients of the governmental institution to deal with my private office for Islamic insurance policies?

The question comprises two issues:

1. The ruling on an agent dealing with his own office for buying or selling, which relates to the issue of an agent selling to himself. The Shafi'is and Hanbalis prohibit this, even with the principal's permission, while the Hanafis and Malikis permit it if the principal grants permission. Therefore, if the company owners do not give permission, it is impermissible by consensus. If they do give permission, it is permissible according to the Hanafi and Maliki schools.

2. The ruling on directing clients to his own office for Islamic insurance when the company requests it. This is permissible, provided it does not cause harm to the company.