The company's purpose is to acquire, manage and utilize participations in companies, as well as to provide related consulting, financing, management, planning and coordination services. It may also acquire, manage and utilize real estate. The company is authorized to establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad, as well as to participate in other companies in Switzerland and abroad. It may conduct all business that is directly or indirectly related to its purpose. Furthermore, the company may acquire, encumber, sell and manage real estate in Switzerland and abroad. It is also entitled to provide financing for its own account or for the account of third parties, as well as to grant guarantees and sureties for its subsidiaries and third parties.