The company's purpose is to operate public establishments. It may carry out all financial, commercial, industrial, and real estate transactions and conclude all contracts that serve to develop its purpose, both in Switzerland and abroad. It may also create branches, take participations in other companies or mandate subcontractors, both in Switzerland and abroad. It may grant loans to its associates or third parties, act as guarantor for loans subscribed by its associates or third parties, guarantee these loans by issuing or pledging mortgage securities or by subscribing to any other financial commitment, and pledge its assets to secure any claim.