Artificial deadlines in order to create unrealistic expectations. When the date comes and goes and nothing happens, then it gives rise to a bash. Bottom barrel tactics that I have seen over and over in stocks like this.
Yes, that would be non public material information, which would then need to be stated to the open market. Also, when there are heavy negotiations going on, all parties usually stay quiet or have a nda in place. It protects the content and parties to the information.
I were negotiating about a potential multi million dollar deal, I would make it known that all information is confidential and no party can divulge anything until all terms are finalized and an agreement is signed.
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