The company's purpose is to acquire, hold, manage, sell, trade and finance participations in other companies of any kind. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries in Switzerland and abroad and participate in other companies in Switzerland and abroad, as well as conduct all business that is directly or indirectly related to its purpose. The company may acquire, encumber, sell and manage real estate in Switzerland and abroad. It may also provide financing for its own account or for the account of third parties, as well as grant guarantees and sureties for its subsidiaries and third parties. The company may acquire, manage, transfer, sell and license patents, licenses, trademarks and technical and industrial know-how.