The company's purpose is to acquire, hold, sell and permanently manage and finance participations in companies. The company may conduct all business that is directly or indirectly suitable to serve the company's purpose or promote the development of the company. It may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad and participate in other companies in Switzerland and abroad, as well as conduct all business that is directly or indirectly related to its purpose. The company may acquire, develop, encumber, sell and manage real estate in Switzerland and abroad. The company may also invest in the acquisition and management of a portfolio of intellectual property rights of any kind and origin. Furthermore, it may provide financing for its own account or for the account of third parties, as well as grant guarantees and sureties for subsidiaries and third parties.