The company's purpose is to manage its own assets, in particular the acquisition, management and disposal of participations in other companies and businesses in Switzerland and abroad. The company may also participate in other companies of any kind in Switzerland and abroad, establish, acquire and merge with them. It may acquire, encumber and dispose of real estate and intellectual property rights in Switzerland and abroad, and by decision of the board of directors, establish branches and agencies in Switzerland or abroad. The company may grant securities and guarantees for its shareholders or other group companies, and grant loans to its shareholders or other group companies.