Slate Money The Louvre Heist Affair
Oct 25, 2025
A stunning jewel heist at the Louvre stole the spotlight, with thieves executing a daring seven-minute theft in broad daylight. The hosts discuss why this crime captivated the public and the challenges the thieves face in monetizing the stolen jewels. Meanwhile, the ongoing government shutdown creates significant data shortages, impacting services and economic reporting. Silicon Valley is embracing the controversial 996 work schedule, raising concerns about its effects on diversity and productivity in the fast-paced tech industry.
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Daylight Louvre Heist Drama
- The Louvre jewels were stolen in broad daylight during opening hours, in roughly seven minutes using a truck with a mechanical ladder.
- Hosts joked about the cinematic romance of French thieves on mopeds and tuxedo-clad heist scenes versus reality.
Stolen Treasures Lose Market Value
- Stolen museum jewels are hard to monetize because they are recognizable and protected by national patrimony laws.
- Thieves often must disassemble and recut gems, destroying much value and making high sale prices improbable.
Why Museums Self-Insure
- Museums typically self-insure high-value collections because market insurance capacity and premiums make full coverage impractical.
- Historical theft losses often cost far less cumulatively than annual insurance premiums would be.
