The company's purpose is to acquire, hold, manage, sell and finance direct and indirect participations in companies in Switzerland and abroad, as well as to acquire, hold, manage and sell licenses and patents. In addition, the company may engage in any commercial, financial or other activities that are directly or indirectly related to the company's purpose. In particular, the company may grant loans, guarantees and other forms of financing and security to group companies and independent third parties. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad, acquire, manage, exploit and sell real estate and intellectual property rights.