The term ex dividend refers to$\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.$

Part $1$

A$.$ a period beginning $2$ business days prior to the date of$$ record, during which a stock is sold without the right to receive the current dividend

B$.$ the date on which all investors whose names are recorded as stockholders receive a declared dividend at a specified future time

C$.$ a period beginning $7$ business days prior to the date of$$ record, during which a stock is sold without the right to receive the current dividend

D$.$ the actual date on which a firm mails the dividend payment to the holders of record