Be careful with this mindset, as if I am correct about the possibility that BP is manipulating the price for a buyout/hostile takeover, the primary reason is to beat investors down and increase the chances they would accept a lower figure.

I dont care what the share price does between now and (insert date), I am not voting in favor of a buyout that is under $50/a share.

The buyout price should be measured against the potential market cap, not against a manipulated share price.