The company's purpose is the acquisition, sale, administration of participations, management and financing of companies of all kinds, in Switzerland and abroad, excluding real estate participations subject to authorization under the Federal Act on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Foreigners. The company may: - carry out any financial, commercial and industrial activity directly or indirectly related to its purpose; - establish branches or subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad; - participate in all companies having a direct or indirect relationship with its purpose; - grant loans or guarantees to shareholders or third parties if it serves its interests.