Madoff -- more than a Ponzi Scheme

Charles Ponzi's offer was made to speculators attracted by an abnormally high short-term return promising them a 50% return on investment in 45 days or "double your money" in 90 days.

In contrast Bernie Madoff attracted an investor seeking a steady, better-than-average, long-term return.

This difference enabled Madoff's to operate his scam for decades.