In this work, Keystones’ role in complex business ecosystems are investigated to show their impact on company strategic decision making and on system developments. Building on complexity theory, network and business ecosystem theory, this paper contributes to the understanding of the behavior of a single actor in the system. The Keystone is investigated by a qualitative case study approach, conducted through a multiple case study analysis. In a new research approach, Keystone behavior is outlined in order to understand its strategy and how it maintains business ecosystem stability. Results confirm that Keystones maintain an important role for the system. The results highlight in a new way that the Keystone influences its environment by certain strategic actions that are aligned between the company and the individual following an open or collaborative strategy to reach their own strategic aims in the system. This work offers a new detailed understanding of Keystone strategy.