To become or remain best-in-class, companies must have the ability to invest in innovation, regardless of pressure from the market or other external forces. Through our financial strength, we allow our companies to make the right investment decisions – at the right time. Access to capital, in combination with sound ownership and governance, creates opportunities to invest for the long term.

Growth is a key value driver for us. New geographies, products and customers tend to be the best opportunities for creating value over time. Complementary acquisitions and expansion into adjacent areas are also possibilities. As we focus on the long-term development of our companies, we maintain their financial gearing at relatively moderate levels in order to provide strategic support and the financial capacity to pursue attractive investments.