The purpose of the company is to acquire, manage and dispose of participations in domestic and foreign companies of all kinds. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad, as well as acquire, hold and dispose of real estate, with the exception of the direct or indirect acquisition of real estate that requires authorization under the Federal Act of 16 December 1983 on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Persons Abroad (BewG, SR 211.412.41). The company may engage in all commercial, financial and other activities that are connected with its purpose. In particular, the company may grant loans, guarantees and other forms of financing and security to affiliated and related companies, and raise and invest funds on the money and capital markets.