Xstrata AG

Xstrata, a minerals and metals company with revenues in 2001 of $613 million, occupies the third floor of a new five-story office building on the main street running through downtown Zug. You can't enter the building though unless you speak into a speaker box and someone buzzes you in.

Joyce Margarit, whose title on her business card reads, "Personal Assistant to CEO" says they never received my letter of introduction. But, it's no problem for the accommodating Margarit as she agrees to answer questions and give a tour.

Seventeen people work here. Smoking isn't allowed in the offices, it's a 10-minute drive to the nearest freeway and an hour to Zurich Airport. Nothing of note in the corner office of CEO Michael Davis. The rectangular table in the boardroom seats eight.