"Collude" carries a strong negative connotation, possibly but not necessarily criminal; certainly within a grey area though and at least somewhat secretive. For

"Collude" carries a strong negative connotation, possibly but not necessarily criminal; certainly within a grey area though and at least somewhat secretive. For above board dealings in the open perhaps "cooperate". If it took opponents by surprise and left them disadvantaged then perhaps "outmaneuvered". If it was open and legal it could nonetheless still be "objectionable" or "callous".