I'm pretty sure what we're seeing here is leaking of insider info... It happens in all markets - trading 101, and the charts gives us the clues...
Those in the the know can't help but tell their friends or family of what a sure thing bitshares is based on their knowledge of what's up next.
See what happened on the 12th - someone (or a group) got very excited by some inside info and it's been happening ever since.
Can you really believe that it would be possible that whatever Dan and the team have been working on could be contained, especially if it involves other parties... It's practically impossible to keep multiple initiatives completely secret when so many people are working on it.
So while we're wondering what's going on - those in the know are probably taking advantage of the dips - and will do all the way up the announcements. Enjoy the ride.