The acquisition, disposal and management of participations in all companies, as well as in all properties, in Switzerland or abroad, except for transactions prohibited by the Federal Act on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Foreigners (LFAIE). The company may establish branches in Switzerland and abroad. It may acquire participations in all companies, acquire or establish such companies, carry out all transactions and perform all functions that are intended to develop the purpose of the company or that have a direct or indirect connection with its object. It may grant loans or guarantees to associates or third parties if this serves its interests.