Stock markets can be manipulated in a number of ways. Here are a few examples of how stock markets can be manipulated:
- Insider trading: This occurs when someone with non-public information about a company buys or sells the company’s stock based on that information. This is illegal because it gives the insider an unfair advantage over other investors who do not have access to the same information.
- Pump and dump: This is a type of stock manipulation where a group of people artificially inflate the price of a stock by spreading false or misleading information about the company. They then sell the stock at the higher price, leaving other investors with overvalued shares.
- Wash trading: This is when a trader buys and sells the same stock repeatedly to create the appearance of increased trading activity and drive up the price. The trader can then sell the stock at the higher price, profiting from the artificial price increase.
- Front running: This is when a trader takes advantage of non-public information about an upcoming trade to make their own trades before the larger trade takes place. This allows the trader to profit from the expected price movement of the stock.
- Bear raiding: This is when a trader or group of traders intentionally drive down the price of a stock by selling large amounts of it, often using negative or false information about the company. The goal is to make a profit by buying the stock back at a lower price.
Overall, stock market manipulation is a serious issue that can have serious consequences for both individual investors and the market as a whole. It is important for regulators to monitor for these activities and take action to prevent and punish those who engage in them.