The company's purpose is to acquire and manage participations, shares and other business interests. The company may also acquire and manage other movable and immovable assets, to the extent that they are compatible with the character of a holding company, such as shares of real estate companies, commercial and industrial enterprises. The company's purpose also includes the acquisition and exploitation of intangible assets such as patents and licenses, as well as the conclusion and exploitation of contracts of all kinds. 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, as well as grant guarantees and sureties for subsidiaries and third parties.