DEFINITION of 'Stock Basher'

An individual, either acting alone or on behalf of someone else, who attempts to devalue a stock by spreading false or exaggerated claims against a public company. After the stock's price has dropped, the basher, or the basher's employer, will then purchase the stock at a lower price than what he or she believes it is intrinsically worth.

BREAKING DOWN 'Stock Basher'

This is an illegal activity that can carry significant legal repercussions. The basher generally benefits on how effective the negative rumors are, which can dramatically affect a stock's value. If an investor believes the false claims, he or she may sell off the stock at the higher price before it falls. The basher will then purchase the stock and ride out the gains.