Aker ASA is an industrial investment company that exercises active ownership. As an active owner, Aker develops and strengthens the companies in its portfolio, working through the boards of the operational entities and ensuring close follow-up by Aker's investment teams. Aker drives operational improvements, strategy, financing, restructuring and industrial transactions forward. Aker organises its business activities in two segments: Industrial holdings and Financial investments. Aker owned companies employ approximately 26 000 people, including approximately 14 000 in Norway. Aker was listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange on 8 September 2004.