The Company's purpose is the acquisition and management of participations in Swiss or foreign companies, as well as financing activities of any kind, except for operations prohibited by the Federal Act on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Foreigners (LFAIE). The Company may create, absorb and merge with other companies and finance holding companies. The Company may engage in financial activities of any kind and obtain or grant loans or guarantees. The Company may purchase, encumber and sell real estate and intellectual property rights within the country and abroad and, by decision of the general managers, open branches and agencies within the country and abroad. Furthermore, the Company may provide securities and guarantees to its associates or other group companies affiliated with it, as well as grant loans to its associates or other group companies affiliated with it.