Hi
@TerribleTadpole, I totally agree with everything you have written, with the two exceptions.
Firstly, in my experience, institutional short traders - not retail, are not just taking advantage of a situation. As our friend Aussie1968 has affirmed, at best, they actively seek to influence the share price, as you say this can be up or down. This
is technically illegal but is tolerated by the ASX and ASIC.
Secondly, many retail investors are hurt - I am one and it's been a painful lesson learned and has put huge stress on me and my family. I did not fully understand the level of influence or the tactics used by these institutions and I know I am very much not alone. If shorting was not allowed, and "market forces" were the only factor, I can say with confidence that I would not have been put in that situation.
(20min delay)