In 2012, I dumped my KQ shares. I made a loss. It hurt but I learnt an invaluable lesson.
I re-read Warren Buffett's writings.
The FIRST lesson is NOT to invest in firms if you do NOT trust the Management/Board. If you invest in a firm and were hoodwinked by the Management/Board or it changes or its philosophy changes and you cannot change the management... take your loss and BAIL OUT. Period.
Olympia, Mumias, KQ, Home Afrika, TCL, Sasini, etc. Run by crooks at some point in time. Olympia is still run by a crook. Sasini shareholders? Good luck if you see any substantial return.
The SECOND lesson is you wants managers with SKIN IN THE GAME be it in shares/ownership or a performance package linked to LONG-TERM (sustainable) PERFORMANCE.
THIRD, do not invest in a business without a MOAT. Invest in a business an idiot can run because one will eventually do so. Of course, when that happens and you realize it then be ready to bail out.
It does not matter which firm it is... So if anyone feels that any of the 3 apply to firms I have an interest in, please let me know what and why. Thank you.
Unga
Kenya Re
I&M Holdings
KenolKobil
Also: Williamson/Kapchorua, TPSEA (Serena), Equity, Car & General
Greedy when others are fearful. Very fearful when others are greedy - to paraphrase Warren Buffett