The company's purpose is to acquire, hold and manage, as well as to sell, assets and participations in companies in Switzerland and abroad, and to provide consulting and management services. The company may acquire or establish similar or related businesses, establish branches and subsidiaries, and enter into all transactions and conclude contracts that are directly or indirectly related to the company's purpose. The company may acquire, sell, encumber, manage, rent and develop real estate. The company may provide financing for its own account or for the account of third parties, as well as guarantees and sureties for subsidiaries and third parties. The company may also acquire, register, manage, encumber and sell patents, licenses and intellectual property rights of all kinds.