The purpose of the company is to hold and sell participations of any kind. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad and carry out all transactions directly or indirectly related to its purpose. The company may acquire, encumber, transfer and manage real estate in Switzerland and abroad. It may also provide financing on its own account or on behalf of third parties, as well as grant guarantees and sureties for subsidiaries and third parties. The company may grant loans to its shareholders or third parties, assume guarantees for loans taken out by its shareholders or third parties, and secure these loans by issuing or pledging mortgage bonds or by signing another financial commitment. Furthermore, the company may pledge its assets to secure any debts. The company may engage in any commercial and financial activity, investment or other activity directly or indirectly related to its purpose or suitable for achieving this purpose. It may carry out these transactions on its own behalf or on behalf of third parties as a representative, or have them executed in its name by third parties.