The company's purpose is to hold and manage participations in, as well as to lead and finance companies in Switzerland and abroad. The company may also conduct any business that is suitable to promote or facilitate the development of the company and the achievement of its purpose. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad, participate in other companies in Switzerland and abroad, and conduct any business that is directly or indirectly related to its purpose. The company may acquire, encumber, sell and manage real estate in Switzerland and abroad. It may also provide financing for its own account or for the account of third parties, as well as grant guarantees and sureties for subsidiaries and third parties.