The company's purpose is to carry out all research and development activities in the field of pharmaceutical, biotechnological and chemical products, their manufacture and distribution, as well as all related activities, including in the field of patents and other intellectual or industrial property. The company may pursue its interests in any form in companies or corporations with the same, similar or complementary purpose, by establishing new companies or corporations, making investments, subscribing, purchasing titles and participations or corporate rights, or by means of merger or partnership. The company may, on its own account or on behalf of a third party, carry out all financial, commercial, industrial, movable and immovable property-related activities that are directly or indirectly related to its purpose, excluding activities prohibited by the Swiss Federal Act on Banks and Savings Associations (BewG). Finally, the company may establish branches in Switzerland and abroad.