I am equally suspicious about leakage from these third parties...

I am equally suspicious about leakage from these third parties (eg McGrathNicol, NAB, MQG and Citi) who may not be held directly accountable by securities trading policies. This potentially accentuates the information asymmetry between market participants. HotCopper may level this playing field (acknowledgement to contributors), but there does appear to be a legitimate argument for such a trading halt.

Fundamentals aside, it is quite likely that sentiment will continue to drive price action in the lead up to half-year results ... where those who are able to engage in second-level thinking (eg Londoner) are able to exploit volatility amidst noise and fear - if they choose to do so.

(My humble opinions only.)