Which of the following suggests that the firm is "mature" and ready to increase its dividends?

$$A$.$ Company has borrowed heavily and bonds have been downrated.

$$B$.$ The company has had a large legal settlement in its favor.

$$C$.$ Company has positive free cash flow but no new positive NPV projects.

$$D$.$ If the final trials of a drug work out as promised, the company will need to heavily invest

in production.

$$E$.$ Company has increased its Research and Development spending to compete with its competitors.