“It is common for the operator to take advantage of a lack of investor knowledge or competence, or sometimes claim to use a proprietary, secret investment strategy to avoid giving information about the scheme”…Wikipedia

So, this sounds familiar. Trump has variously claimed to have strategies for dealing with China, North Korea, Russia, but he can’t divulge the plans. Shhhh..this only works if you aren’t paying attention. But you will pay. Sounds like a perfect Vegas scam, but truth is, Vegas doesn’t play this game. Honor among thieves applies to the current administration. Remember, Trump bankrupted his casinos but somehow convinced investors he was worthy of their trust and dollars.

Vegas doesn’t cheat. The covenant here is the guarantee that you will get a fair chance while remembering the house will always have the statistical edge. Lives can be changed here whether for good or ill. We vigorously advertise the big wins in order to entice others to try their luck. It’s what we do. The rules are clear and constant. Not so with Trump’s schemes. Ponzi would be proud. The American people are invested in the scheme whether willing or not. The mechanisms are falling into place to keep us paying and playing while his supporters cheer and lap up the kool aid. The promise is that everyone will have a chance to win big…but the reality is the only winners are already ahead of the game. Advantage players. You have to be in on the scheme and that knowledge is by invitation only. Trump has sold to his minions that they’re in on the sting.  And that is the lure. It’s the implied promise of success if you just invest a little more and trust me.

Think on Trump’s push of tariffs on China. Remember how much pain this inflicts on America’s farmers. And now recall Trump’s response, “a little pain now, but a big payoff later.” Trust me.

Bernie Madoff? Light weight.