Some of this almost sounds like paranoia, although as is...

Some of this almost sounds like paranoia, although as is sometimes correctly pointed out, just because you're not paranoid, doesn't mean they aren't coming to get you! You're no doubt right that sometimes these games get played in that sort of way, with folks in clandestine boardroom meetings making such decisions in such ways.

But, if so (and your speculations here just add weight to what I expect the price to do), surely buying in for, say, 15-30% less is something worth doing. I mean, I'd sure like 15-30% more stock for the same money! I know you've bragged about making these figures in a day so why bother seeking those returns in longer terms, but most mere mortals are actually happy to make 15-30% in a year, and I'm sure happy if I can make that sort of return (or saving) within a period of weeks or less.