I understand what you mean, but the figure just can play around, but cannot run away from it (the basic of your asset value, revenue) unless the account is really a fake like some Txx company.
Reversing provision must have good reason and getting through or approved by the auditor, can't just simply want then already can.
I don't think any listed company want to report a 'fake' loss, instead mostly will intend to make the report card as good as possible. The potential "fake" profit can happen (bring forward the sales, delay to book in purchase or whatever, you know, accounting is dead, human can play with it, but can't run away the basic of it), but you can find trace of it from its account, cashflow etc.
No matter what, cashflow is something you cannot fake on, you can fake on profit or loss, but you cannot fake the cash unless your company can print up the cash.
That's why when look at the account, cashflow is the one must look at, not only P&L.
You are right. Sell downs and margin calls on major shareholders are serious.
Do not forget the bankers, knocking on your doors.
Right issue would be out of question.