The purpose of the company is to acquire, invest, manage and dispose of participations in domestic and foreign companies of all kinds. The company may grant loans to direct or indirect shareholders as well as to companies of the group, and guarantees or sureties of any kind for liabilities towards companies of the group; these loans, guarantees or sureties may also be granted free of charge or without compensation. The company may also manage its own assets. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad and participate in other companies in Switzerland and abroad. The company may acquire, hold and dispose of real estate. The company may carry out all commercial, financial and other activities that are connected with the purpose of the company.