The purpose of the association is the safeguarding and representation of the members' interests, self-regulation, the promotion of the reputation of the Securities Dealers and the Swiss financial centre in Switzerland and abroad.      This means in particular:  representation of the association and its members in relation to authorities and influential business circles on a national and international level;   participating in the legislative and regulatory processes on all levels   providing support to members of the association in their business in the form of advice, further education and joint projects;   organisation of meetings and committees for the purpose of exchange of information, further education and forming of opinions.