It’s not on par in that one is more absurd and unrealistic than the other. So I acknowledge your critique. But my point was more that the psychological root causes of both are similar. It comes from a tendency to latch onto a self-serving or pleasing or favorable explanation. An unproven or unrealistic or outright false narrative will do if it makes us comfortable. Ultimately, I see this example with broker collusion theories as a sign that no one is holier than others or above these very human tendencies.

I think it’s fine to speculate, even wildly, while also seeking the truth. Especially if the truth isn’t out. It sounds like you are describing rejecting the truth, which isn’t what I think most people are doing here. Of course facts are always emerging and there will be lag time, so you and I may just be perceiving reactions differently