The company's purpose is to acquire, hold, manage and dispose of participations of all kinds in other companies in Switzerland and abroad, with the exception of any activity subject to the Federal Act on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Persons Abroad. The company may acquire and retain intellectual property rights (trademarks, patents, etc.). The company may conduct all commercial and financial transactions that are directly or indirectly related to its purpose. Furthermore, it may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad, as well as acquire, hold, manage and dispose of real estate. The company may grant loans or other financing to affiliated companies and create securities of all kinds for the direct or indirect benefit of affiliated companies or third parties, in particular in the form of guarantees, pledges or fiduciary transfers of the company's assets.