Comment from source...
/* re-calculating the frame positions means we loose our original transform if its not auto-keyed [#24451]
* this hack re-applies it, which is annoying, only alternatives are...
* - dont recalc paths.
* - have an object_handle_update() which gives is the new transform without touching the objects.
* - only recalc paths on auto-keying.
* - ED_objects_recalculate_paths could backup/restore transforms.
* - re-apply the transform which is simplest in this case. (2 lines below)
*/
Martin, if you think this workaround is unacceptable, then automatic recalculating of paths after transform should probably be disabled since it looses data on non transform un-keyed values.