nlightn, good read. There is so much stuff out there regarding manipulation by MM's, Specialists, and shorters in Berlin. One thing getting the most press right now is the buying and selling of shares without actual delivery or confirmation that the shares even exist. Personally, I think some manipulation occurs, especially on an intraday basis, but long term, if you own stock in a great company with improving fundamentals every year, the price is going to keep trending up. The POS companies with lousy fundamentals are the ones investors keep screaming "manipulation!!!", if you stick with the good ones long term they pay off, IMO. The POS ones are for short term plays only, IMO.
Cash is King until further notice!!!
My comments on companies are usually my opinion of long term success (years). The PPS may go up or down greatly in the meantime depending on the number of greedy suckers with money.