The acquisition and management of participations in all companies in Switzerland or abroad pursuing a commercial, real estate, industrial or financial activity, excluding participations in any company having the purpose of acquiring real estate in Switzerland. The company may establish branches in Switzerland or abroad. The company may borrow or obtain any form of credit, may provide guarantees of any kind to secure its obligations or those of companies of the same group, in particular in the form of guarantees, pledges or securities on the company's assets. The company may also grant financial assistance, loans, advances or guarantees to companies of the same group. Furthermore, it may carry out all commercial, financial or securities transactions directly or indirectly related to its purpose.