The company's purpose is to acquire, manage, trade and dispose of participations of all kinds. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad and participate in other companies in Switzerland and abroad, as well as conduct all business that is directly or indirectly related to its purpose. The company may acquire, encumber, sell and manage intellectual property rights and real estate in Switzerland and abroad. In particular, it may provide financing for its own account or for the account of third parties, as well as grant guarantees and sureties for indirect and direct subsidiaries and third parties. It may also grant loans or other financing to its affiliated companies, either directly or indirectly, for consideration or free of charge, and provide security of all kinds.