"ASG is in many markets: their philosophy of predominantly entering into joint ventures even in markets like Saudi Arabia where they are well known, is part of Mr. Al Ghanim's unusual expansion process one that has kept the company growing even in times of recession and financial crisis.The concept appears simple on the surface, but in practice is very complex to manage: ASG cultivates an aggressive business sector alongside its traditional businesses so that during times of financial crisis the aggressive businesses keep the group active, and during flush economic times the traditional sec- tor takes over."