The Monte Carlo Director's Secret to Make Any Business Succeed #TrueStory

#87 Angelinvesting.it - From idea to Series A - Weekly Newsletter

3 minutes to reflect

At the heart of Monte Carlo's legendary casino lies a business secret so powerful, it can make any venture thrive. This isn't just gambling lore - it's a #TrueStory of marketing genius that modern entrepreneurs can learn from.

François Blanc, the visionary first director of Monte Carlo's casino from 1863 to 1881, understood a fundamental truth about human nature: stories sell better than statistics. One of his most brilliant innovations? The black cloth ritual.

When a lucky gambler “breaks the bank" (terms he coined) - winning all the money at a table - a black cloth is draped over it. This simple act of theater serves a dual purpose:

1. It whispers to dreamers: "You could be next."

2. It shows skeptics that the house can be beaten.

This clever psychological ploy keeps the wheels spinning and the chips flowing. Brilliantly, it turns a financial loss into a PR stunt. Blanc knew that in business, perception is crucial.

Take the legend of Charles Wells. In 1891, this English entrepreneur/scammer achieved the unthinkable: 23 consecutive winning bets, including hitting number 5 five times in a row. His take-home? A cool 6 million in today's dollars.

Wells' win became gambling folklore, inspiring songs, films, and generations of hopeful gamblers. Some even speculate it was an elaborate PR stunt - after that happening, the Casino scored record year profit (even convincing King Albert to abort the plan to close the Monaco casino).

When reviewing startup pitch decks, smart investors look beyond data for that captivating story that speaks to both reason and emotion. It's often the symbolism and meaning behind an idea that truly wins people over.

2 resources to advance to pro

A startup called “Monte Carlo”

Have you ever wondered how Monte Carlo became the jet-set mecca it is today? Wonder no more. This 20-minute video will quench your curiosity.

Check it out!

A great angel investor's advice

1 reason to smile

Apple has quietly released a new interesting feature (not applicable to my beautiful wife)... wife noise cancelling

Have a great weekend,

Simone