RE:RE:940K plus shares traded..
Doesn't have to involve QTRH one bit -- there is a 'natural' confluence of interests among the big houses that own and trade the stock.
These shared interests don't have to involve any conspiracy - just a common interest in what they combined see as the "natural" or "ideal" progression of the stock price. If the company announces an NCIB -- why wouldn't longs and large holders work to ensure QTRH's proxy can scoop at good prices -- they will benefit long term.
The other dynamic involves Cormark - or whoever is buying on behalf of QTRH. It's their job to buy low as possible, and IF market conditions are favourable to "tricks" to stall any run ups, why wouldn't they exercise their independent / dominant influence.
Manipulation works when many "shared interests" work together (without having to talk to each other) --- OR you have one or another players who can exercise their dominant position to run it up or keep things level.
>>> Why the hell were they keeping it low for the 2-3 years prior to the NCIB?
Nothing contractictory to suggest past practice reflects management lack of success, disregard of shareholders and so on. But clearly they have been trying to make some moves to improve.
No conspiracy is needed -- market manipulation is standard practice