They’ve been intelligently internationalizing for years now, and he probably figures that the period of massive growth and appreciation of his cement assets is over. Still a good business, but why not let the more competent lafarge, with its massive global distrubution network, manage the mature entity while he collects fat checks (11% of a business that generates about $3.5 billion in profit a year).

Cash is king, particularly when the kings reign is running towards a close. I’m sure the intention is to still do lots of business in egypt and the region, the place after all where they can get the fattest margins, but to be prepared for the worst to happen.