The purpose of the company is the acquisition, sale and holding of participations in other companies, their management and financing. The company may carry out all commercial, financial and other activities that promote the purpose of the company or are directly or indirectly related to it. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries and other legal entities in Switzerland and abroad and participate in other companies in Switzerland and abroad. The company may acquire, transfer, manage and encumber real estate and other material or immaterial assets in Switzerland and abroad. Furthermore, the company may grant loans or other financing to its direct or indirect subsidiaries as well as to third parties, against payment or free of charge, and provide security of any kind for the liabilities of such persons or companies, including guarantees, pledges and sureties.