The company's purpose is to acquire, hold, manage and sell participations in domestic and foreign companies. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad, participate in other companies in Switzerland and abroad, and conduct all business that is directly or indirectly related to its purpose. The company may acquire, encumber, sell and manage real estate in Switzerland and abroad. It may also provide financing for its own account or for the account of third parties, and grant securities for liabilities of affiliated companies. Furthermore, the company may conduct any business or conclude any contracts that are suitable to promote the development of the company and the achievement of its purpose, or that are directly or indirectly related thereto.