Naguib Sawiris Reveals "Expensive Lessons" in Emotional Investing

Naguib Sawiris Reveals “Expensive Lessons” in Emotional Investing

Last Updated: February 23, 2026By

Egyptian billionaire Naguib Sawiris recently shared a candid look into his past financial failures, revealing how a fit of anger once led him to lose a 10% stake in a major company.

In an interview on Billion Journey, Sawiris explained that he reacted emotionally to a business dispute by doubling his investment without research, only to see the global market crash shortly after.

The Orascom founder used the story to highlight a fundamental rule of wealth management: never make financial decisions while angry or overconfident.

He admitted that his ego had cost him dearly in the past, stressing that successful investing requires a combination of calm calculation, patience, and the ability to learn from deals that do not go as planned.

Today, Sawiris maintains a highly disciplined approach to his portfolio, keeping approximately 70% of his wealth in gold as a safe haven asset.

He noted that he measures success not by his position on rich lists, but by the long-term value and strength of the companies he builds, a philosophy rooted in a family upbringing that valued moderation and gratitude.

Despite his immense wealth, the mogul remains focused on staying grounded and connected to the ordinary person, often sharing anecdotes of simple daily interactions.

His current strategy focuses on moving forward without regret, prioritizing the resilience of his business ventures over the emotional highs and lows of the stock market.

SOURCE: BUSINESS INSIDER AFRICA

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