"My sole purpose was to repeat a report from an annual meeting attendee that indicated that the CEO made a statement that you effectively accused that reporter of fabricating by scoffing at the prospect of it having been made."
If that's the case you have failed miserably.
Person #1 (Leo) The company's position is that no B-ABSSI deal will be made until we're in P3 and the further it goes along the greater the deal. With the greatest return post P3.
Person #2 (attendee) - Takes the above information and comes to an opinion conclusion and provides the following statement "Leo does not believe he will partner B for ABSSSI before phase 3 is complete." This opinion conclusion is valid. Had I been there I might of even concluded it. The fact of the matter is this person was not quoting Leo.
Here's where things get turned into misinformation.
Person #3 comes along (not at the meeting) and communicates what person #2 said to be a matter of fact to others. For instance "Leo said there will be no partnership until Phase 3 is complete."
Taking opinion statements and turning them info fact is misinformation. Period. Crickets.
I can give you a similar example taken from the showcase if you would like.
As always, in my opinion only. Do your own due diligence!