Our values reflect the personal values of the family we represent. As a family office, it is important for us to own company investments whose managers and co-partners share these values.
The most important are:
The values of our family office are strongly influenced by the family we represent. When selecting investments in companies, we always make sure that their managers and co-shareholders also identify with these values and live them in the companies.
We address points openly, do not conceal. That can sometimes be unpleasant, but it's not a waste of time.
We rely on our managing directors and they can rely on us. The spoken word counts, so we spend little time on contracts and the like.
We treat our employees and business partners with respect. For us, they are not chess pieces to be pushed around on a playing field. Everyone needs recognition, and we give it to them, so they are happy and more productive.
Our great role model is Berkshire Hathaway with the management duo Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger. By consistently applying the above values, they have created a company that has generated one of the highest returns for its investors - almost 20% p.a.. Besides that, there are many other similarities: e.g. Berkshire also holds its private investments permanently and manages them completely decentralised.
That's why we go to Berkshire's AGM every year. The day before, we organise an event where many sellers and managers of our holdings as well as friends from our network attend, present their companies and exchange ideas.
"In the world of business, the people who are most successful are those who are doing what they love."