The company's purpose is the direct or indirect acquisition, permanent management, financing and disposal of participations in companies in Switzerland and abroad. It can acquire, manage and dispose of patents, licenses, securities and real estate in Switzerland and abroad. The company can enter into all transactions and conclude contracts that are suitable to promote the purpose of the company or that are directly or indirectly related to it. The company can conduct investments and financial transactions and merge with other companies. The company can acquire, encumber, sell and manage real estate in Switzerland and abroad. Furthermore, the company can grant loans or other financings to its direct or indirect shareholders and their direct or indirect subsidiaries, as well as to third parties, against payment or free of charge, and provide securities of all kinds for the liabilities of such persons, including by way of pledges on or fiduciary transfers of assets. It can establish subsidiaries, branches and agencies in Switzerland or abroad by resolution of the board of directors.