> "We are utilizing our special connections to win the race and perhaps do what the whole world is doing — lay our hands on stocks ordered by others," he said."

> "We are utilizing our special connections to win the race and perhaps do what the whole world is doing — lay our hands on stocks ordered by others," he said." It sounds to me like outbidding, perhaps offering enough money that a supplier is willing to breach contracts. Not pretty, but not strictly theft.