The company's purpose is to acquire, hold, manage and dispose of participations in other companies of any kind, both domestically and abroad. The company may acquire, encumber and dispose of real estate and intellectual property rights, both domestically and abroad, and may establish branches and agencies, both domestically and abroad, by resolution of the board of directors. The company may engage in all commercial, financial and other activities that are connected with the company's purpose. Furthermore, it may grant loans to its (direct or indirect) shareholders or other group companies and also secure its obligations towards third parties in any form, in particular through pledges, security assignments or security transfers or guarantees of any kind, for consideration or free of charge.