What does "chumming" refer to in a financial context?

"Chumming" in a financial context refers to the practice of scattering advice or information that may not be reliable with the intention of misleading clients or creating confusion. This strategy can lead to a distorted market perception, where investors may make decisions based on flawed or diluted information. The term often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of ethical standards or accountability in the information provided.

In contrast, the other options focus on practices that generally seek to attract or engage clients in a more positive or ethical manner, such as offering free advice, luring investors with general information, or providing personalized advice. These alternatives denote practices that, while they may vary in their effectiveness or appropriateness, do not embody the deceitful nature associated with "chumming." Thus, the correct understanding of "chumming" is centered on its role in undermining trust in financial advisory practices through the dissemination of misleading information.