What is a Ponzi scheme?

A Ponzi scheme is an investment scam in which returns are paid to earlier investors using the capital from newer investors, rather than from profit earned by the operation of a legitimate business. This scheme relies on the continuous influx of new investments to keep it running and to pay returns to earlier investors, creating the illusion of a profitable business.

The fundamental characteristic of a Ponzi scheme is its unsustainable nature; it ultimately collapses when the operator can no longer attract enough new investors to pay returns or when investors try to cash out in large numbers. This highlights the risk associated with such schemes, as they offer the promise of high returns with little risk, which is often a red flag for potential scams.

In contrast, legal investment strategies, retirement plans, and cooperative investing refer to legitimate methods of managing and growing wealth, each with clear structures and regulations designed to protect investors. Understanding the nature of Ponzi schemes underscores the importance of vigilance when evaluating investment opportunities to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.