This route is a lot surer payoff for investors than waiting for a major cash takeover that might blow up(see Hewlett Packard) or parceling the cash out in dribs and drabs by yearly dividend increases.

FORBES: Multi-billion Dollar Buybacks Can Spike Stock Prices

Another is the way that bad news comes to light in dribs and drabs, rather than in one cathartic revelation.

ECONOMIST: A liquidity squeeze

In the run-up to its eagerly awaited share offering, information about the inner workings of Blackstone has been released in tempting dribs and drabs.

ECONOMIST: More transatlantic gripes

In dribs and drabs, former players and other men ( including at least one pro bowler) in the sporting world have come out.

FORBES: If NFL Players Say They're Gay, Youth Coaches Will Have To Rethink 'Manliness'