Which one of the following statements is correct?

A$.$

A firm is able to increase its leverage by repurchasing outstanding shares

B$.$

The value of a firm is determined based on the number of shareholders

C$.$

There always exists a misalignment of interest between financial managers and shareholders

D$.$

Maximizing a stock price is equivalent to maximizing the value of the firm

E$.$

Maximizing the debtholders$$ wealth is a goal of financial managers