The company's purpose is to acquire and permanently manage participations in companies of all kinds, in particular in the field of vacuum technology, as well as to finance companies closely related to the company, both domestically and abroad. The company can acquire, sell and exploit patents, other intellectual property rights and know-how. Furthermore, the company can conduct all business that is suitable to promote or facilitate the development of the company and the achievement of its purpose. In particular, it can acquire, develop and sell real estate. The company can also take over, establish or participate in similar or related companies in any form. The company can grant financing of any kind to its (direct or indirect) shareholders, their direct or indirect subsidiaries, related companies (of the entire group, in a direct or indirect manner) and third parties, both for consideration and free of charge, and provide security or guarantees of any kind for the liabilities of such (direct or indirect) shareholders, their direct or indirect subsidiaries, related companies (of the entire group, in a direct or indirect manner) and third parties, in particular by means of guarantees, pledges, fiduciary transfers or assignments of assets for security purposes, as well as assume indemnification obligations or any other obligations.