Knowledge

Investment holding company

An investment holding company acquires, holds and develops stakes in companies aiming at long-term value creation rather than a quick resale.

The term investment holding covers very different players — from private-equity funds with a fixed exit horizon to entrepreneurial holdings that keep their companies permanently. What matters is less the legal form than the intent: is a company bought to develop it, or to resell it at a profit after a few years? This basic stance shapes every later decision.

An entrepreneurially run investment holding supports its companies actively: it ensures governance and financing, opens access to the group’s know-how and network, and invests in growth. The focus is on continuity for employees and customers and on a fair, transparent valuation. The company does not interfere in day-to-day business but sets the framework and supports where it genuinely adds value.

In a typical process an investment holding first checks whether a company fits strategically and culturally, then conducts a careful review of figures, contracts and risks (due diligence) before valuation and structure are negotiated. In the Swiss SME landscape discretion and personal trust are often more important than any formula — many owners will only sell their life’s work to someone they truly believe will carry it forward.

A common confusion concerns the difference from classic private equity: whereas funds frequently work with debt and aim for a sale within a few years, a long-term investment holding thinks in generations rather than quarters. This does not mean return is irrelevant — but it arises from sustainable development, not from a quick resale.

HOSCH Holding reviews participation opportunities that fit its fields discreetly and open-endedly — with clear responsibilities, a realistic time horizon and without exaggerated return promises. With FlyBusiness, Planet and Zerdawa the group shows how participations in aviation hospitality, advisory and trade are held and developed over the long term rather than treated as mere financial investments.

Knowledge

Frequently asked questions

01

How does an investment holding differ from a private-equity fund?

A private-equity fund usually works with a fixed exit horizon and resells the acquired companies after a few years. A long-term investment holding keeps its companies permanently and develops them across economic cycles.

02

How does a typical participation process work?

First it is checked whether a company fits strategically and culturally, followed by a careful review of figures, contracts and risks and the negotiation of valuation and structure. Discretion and trust are central at every step.

03

Does a company keep its independence after a participation?

With an entrepreneurially run investment holding, usually yes. The company remains legally independent and keeps its brand, team and client relationships, while governance and financing are coordinated at group level.

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