The purpose of the company is to acquire, manage and dispose of participations in other companies in Switzerland and abroad, to carry out all ancillary transactions related thereto, and to trade in goods of all kinds. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad and participate in other companies. The company is authorized to 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, grant and take out loans, and provide guarantees and sureties for subsidiaries and third parties. Furthermore, the company may carry out all business activities that are suitable to promote the development of the company and the achievement of its purpose, in particular also acquire intellectual property rights and have trademarks protected.