Stock market rumors

This article examines the pervasive phenomenon of “small essays” – market rumors – in China’s stock market and their impact on stock prices. Fueled by social media virality and exploiting information asymmetry, these narratives often prioritize speed over accuracy, influencing retail investors and even algorithmic trading. The article categorizes common rumor themes, discusses the low-cost, high-reward nature of their creation and dissemination, and highlights challenges in regulating them. While authorities are cracking down, the article concludes that a better understanding of investments, more transparent dissemination of information and greater regulation are needed to combat their influence.