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Ponzi Schemes in the Caribbean

Author

Listed:
  • Ana Carvajal
  • Mr. Hunter K Monroe
  • Ms. Catherine A Pattillo
  • Brian Wynter

Abstract

In several Caribbean states, unregulated investment schemes grew quickly in recent years by claiming unusually high monthly returns and through a system of referrals by existing members. These are features shared with traditional Ponzi schemes and pyramid schemes. This paper describes the growth of such schemes, their subsequent collapse, and the policy response of regulators, and presents key policy lessons. The analysis and recommendations draw on country experiences in the Caribbean, and in such diverse countries as the United States, Colombia, Lesotho, and Albania.

Suggested Citation

  • Ana Carvajal & Mr. Hunter K Monroe & Ms. Catherine A Pattillo & Brian Wynter, 2009. "Ponzi Schemes in the Caribbean," IMF Working Papers 2009/095, International Monetary Fund.
    • Handle: RePEc:imf:imfwpa:2009/095
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Chris Jarvis, 2000. "The Rise and Fall of the Pyramid Schemes in Albania," IMF Staff Papers, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 47(1), pages 1-1.
    2. International Monetary Fund, 2008. "Portugal: Staff Report for the 2008 Article IV Consultation," IMF Staff Country Reports 2008/323, International Monetary Fund.
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    Cited by:

    1. Tennant, David, 2011. "Why do people risk exposure to Ponzi schemes? Econometric evidence from Jamaica," Journal of International Financial Markets, Institutions and Money, Elsevier, vol. 21(3), pages 328-346, July.
    2. Jacqueline M. Drew & Michael E. Drew, 2010. "Ponzimonium: Madoff and the Red Flags of Fraud," Discussion Papers in Finance finance:201007, Griffith University, Department of Accounting, Finance and Economics.
    3. Hofstetter, Marc & Mejía, Daniel & Rosas, José Nicolás & Urrutia, Miguel, 2018. "Ponzi schemes and the financial sector: DMG and DRFE in Colombia," Journal of Banking & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 96(C), pages 18-33.
    4. Benjamin Amoah, 2018. "Mr Ponzi with Fraud Scheme Is Knocking: Investors Who May Open," Global Business Review, International Management Institute, vol. 19(5), pages 1115-1128, October.

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