Which of the following actions would NOT be classified as market manipulation?

Diversifying investments is considered a sound investment strategy aimed at reducing risk by allocating capital across various financial instruments, industries, or other categories. This approach helps investors achieve a more balanced portfolio and does not involve any deceptive practices or attempts to influence market prices fraudulently.

On the other hand, giving out misleading information, manipulating transactions, and distorting market information all involve unethical practices intended to mislead investors and artificially influence market conditions. These actions can create false perceptions of supply, demand, or pricing, leading to unsubstantiated market movements. Hence, diversifying investments stands apart as a legitimate practice, while the other options denote actions that are explicit forms of market manipulation.