This SEC info just adds to the confusion:

"Sometimes a company pays a dividend in the form of stock rather than cash. The stock dividend may be additional shares in the company or in a subsidiary being spun off. The procedures for stock dividends may be different from cash dividends. The ex-dividend date is set the first business day after the stock dividend is paid (and is also after the record date)."

"If you have questions about specific dividends, you should consult with your financial advisor."

https://www.investor.gov/introduction-investi...-stock-and