The purpose of the company is to carry out financial transactions of all kinds and to acquire, manage and dispose of participations in other companies in Switzerland and abroad, as well as to carry out commercial transactions of all kinds. The company may also assume representations, acquire, manage and exploit patents, trademarks, licenses and manufacturing processes and intellectual property rights. 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. It may also provide financing for its own account or for the account of third parties, as well as provide guarantees and sureties for subsidiaries and third parties.