I've seen a bit of that on some stocks I track. In the others...

I've seen a bit of that on some stocks I track.

In the others I've seen, it is clearly attempted share price fixing, a form of market manipulation, which is highly illegal as it creates a false market, but almost impossible to prove or enforce. When it is proven though the consequences are severe.

These days algorithmic trading can be programmed to do this, so instigators remain away from it and make it harder still to prove intent. Regulations will need to change to include this as a deiberate attempt to circumnavigate the law.

PDN? I do not know, but it is a keen observation PeterBills. A false market if present is to everyone's disavantage except those holding options or bonus shares, such as administrators or other insiders like underwriters. As they say in the movies, follow the money.