The company's purpose is to acquire and manage participations, in any form, in companies of any kind, both in Switzerland and abroad. Furthermore, the company may carry out any operation aimed at safeguarding or promoting the interests of the group. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad, participate in other companies in Switzerland and abroad, acquire similar or related companies or associate with such companies, acquire, encumber and dispose of land in Switzerland or abroad and carry out all commercial activities having a direct or indirect connection with the company's purpose. It may also provide financing for its own account or for the account of third parties and grant guarantees and securities for group companies and third parties.