Very true and a common pattern in Startups and even large companies. Sell what you don't have. Not sure it works out all the time, but it has for some.
I believe most enterprise shops sell what they don't have. But they also know by the time the customer is ready they'll have it built & ready. The customer is also aware of the current state and timelines.
For theranos and fyre festival. I'd say it was less playing timing to their advantage and more fraud.
For theranos and fyre festival. I'd say it was less playing timing to their advantage and more fraud.