 Theoretically it is not impossible at least for certain entities operating as Ponzi scheme to ultimately "succeed" financially, at least so long as a Ponzi scheme was not what the promoters were initially intending to operate.For example, a failing hedge fund reporting fraudulent returns could conceivably "make good" its reported numbers, for example by making a successful high-risk investment.Moreover if the operators of such a scheme are facing the likelihood of imminent collapse accompanied by criminal charges, they may see little additional "risk" to themselves in attempting cover their tracks by engaging in further illegal acts to try and make good the shortfall (for example, by engaging in insider trading).