What's a tontine? It's a new kind of investment. You buy non-refundable shares in a common pot and collect the interest for the rest of your life. In fact, tontines are all about living — and that's why the creator feels it's an idea which can't possibly fail.
There's just one minor flaw...
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This story contains examples of:
- Didn't Think This Through: Most of the scam is, on its surface, reasonable, but is actually just an excuse to get a bunch of bits into Victoria's control and not have ponies ask questions for a good long while. None of which matters, because she plans to flee with the money as soon as possible. Her mistake was making a scam based on living long in a country ruled by two immortals. Including one who specifically has an interest in the economy and finances."An interesting concept," that rather large mare declared. "I have been reviewing the tales for some time. And as somepony with an interest in mathematics, I believe myself to have fully recognized all the implications of your unique idea. They were well worth considering. And, in my opinion, also worth... watching. Which, of course, would currently require participation."
She couldn't move. The window was right there, she was sure she could survive the jump, and she couldn't move...
"The last pony surviving collects all of the dividends?" the mare asked, and stars softly twinkled in the semi-tangible mane as dark energy deposited a bag of bits next to the final bottle of sherry. "Do tell me more." - Exact Words: Victoria tells ponies that once the fund is complete, she'll donate the container for the bits to charity. She doesn't mention that she'll empty the bits first.