Maybe the powers that be want to keep this stock's price subdued for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, steady, medium term, price growth will create a higher probability that the price stays higher in the longer term. Parabolic rises in stock prices create parabolic crashes.
Secondly, anyone making a proper takeover bid of at $7.00 to $10.00 (minimum what thiis stock is really worth, IMHO) would get lambasted by their own shareholders. On the other hand, if this stock gets to the $2.50 range, there may be many shareholders who would jump at a $3.00 offer from a major, and that would be a threat to TPTB long term price targets.
Just some total conjecture on my part to pass the time.
MB