The company's purpose is to acquire, hold, manage and sell participations in domestic and foreign companies of any kind, in particular in the fields of production, trade, services, real estate and the financial and insurance sectors. 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 real estate in Switzerland and abroad. Furthermore, the company may provide management services, financing, consulting services and other corporate services to subsidiaries and participations as well as to third parties. It may also provide financing on its own account or on behalf of third parties, as well as grant guarantees and sureties for subsidiaries and third parties. In addition, the company may acquire, hold, manage and exploit licenses, patents and other intellectual property rights. The company is authorized to conduct all business and take all measures that appear suitable to promote the company's purpose directly or indirectly.