This story was originally published on CX Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily CX Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: McDonald’s loyalty app reached 210 million 90-day active users in 70 global markets, according to executives on a Q4 2025 earnings call Wednesday. Active users are up from 185 million 90-day active users in the second quarter of 2025. In 2023, the restaurant chain made about $20 billion in system-wide sales to loyalty members across 50 markets. Sales to loyalt ...

Core Insights - McDonald's is successfully attracting budget-conscious consumers through value meals and promotions, resulting in a 6.8% increase in US sales in the fourth quarter, the largest rise in two years [1][6] - The company's value strategy is particularly effective among lower-income consumers affected by inflation, with holiday promotions contributing to increased customer traffic [2] - Consistency in offering value will be crucial as consumers remain selective in their spending [3] Financial Performance - McDonald's global comparable sales rose 5.7% in the fourth quarter, exceeding expectations, with adjusted earnings surpassing Wall Street estimates and revenue exceeding $7 billion [7] - The rebound in customer traffic has translated into stronger financial results, indicating that discount-driven traffic can lead to profitability [7] Competitive Landscape - McDonald's strategy stands out as many US restaurants struggle with foot traffic; lower-priced chains like Taco Bell and KFC have reported sales increases, while higher-priced competitors like Chipotle have seen declines [4] Future Plans - McDonald's aims to continue its affordability messaging while expanding its beverage offerings, including cold coffees and crafted sodas, targeting younger consumers [8] - A new McCafe-branded drink lineup is set to launch in the US and select international markets following a successful test in 500 stores [8]

Core Viewpoint - McDonald's Corporation continues to demonstrate strong performance and growth potential despite competitive pressures in the fast-food industry [1][6]. Financial Performance - McDonald's stock has reached new all-time highs, currently priced at $332.21, reflecting a 2.78% increase or $9 from previous levels [3]. - The company's market capitalization stands at approximately $237.07 billion, indicating strong investor interest [3][6]. - In the fourth quarter of 2025, McDonald's exceeded revenue and earnings per share estimates, showcasing its ability to navigate market challenges [4]. Analyst Sentiment - Jake Bartlett from Truist Financial set a new price target for McDonald's at $370, representing a 12.06% increase from its trading price of $330.19 [2]. - BTIG analyst Peter Saleh also raised his price target to $370, maintaining a Buy rating, reflecting confidence in McDonald's growth potential [2]. - TD Cowen analyst Andrew Charles noted potential concerns such as higher interest rates but remains optimistic about same-store sales growth [4]. Sales Growth Projections - Charles anticipates approximately 3% growth in U.S. same-store sales for 2026, with stronger performance expected in the first half of the year [5]. - This growth is driven by better-than-expected sales across all segments, particularly in the International Operated Markets (IOM) and the U.S. [5][6].

Core Insights - McDonald's is adapting its menu to cater to customers using weight-loss drugs, focusing on high-protein options to meet the needs of GLP-1 users [1][5] Group 1: Menu Innovations - The company is testing high-protein menu items, which may include grilled chicken strips, cauliflower tortillas, and smaller burgers wrapped in lettuce [2][12] - Current menu items already include protein-rich options like Snack Wraps and Sausage Biscuit sandwiches, with the potential to increase protein content by adding extra ingredients [3][4] Group 2: Market Trends - The adoption of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss has surged, with 12.4% of Americans reportedly using these medications, more than doubling in the past year and a half [7] - Users of GLP-1 drugs are visiting fast food restaurants significantly less, with a 77% decrease in fast food visits and a 74% decrease in pizza restaurant visits [9][10] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - McDonald's is not alone in targeting this market; other chains like Chipotle and Shake Shack have introduced GLP-1 friendly menu items, indicating a broader industry trend towards health-conscious offerings [13][12] - Starbucks has also added protein-focused items to its menu, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences towards healthier options [14]

Key Takeaways McDonald's reported Q4 adjusted EPS of $3.12, topping estimates, with revenues up 10% Y/Y to $7B.MCD's global comps rose 5.7% Y/Y, driven by 6.8% growth in the United States and solid international gains.McDonald's Q4 operating income increased 10% Y/Y to $3.15B, while net income rose 7% to $2.16B.McDonald's Corporation (MCD) reported fourth-quarter 2025 results, with earnings and revenues beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate. The top and bottom lines increased on a year-over-year basis.McDona ...

McDonald's Corp.'s US sales grew at the fastest pace in more than two years in the fourth quarter as value meals continued to resonate with cost-conscious diners. Sales from established US restaurants jumped 6.8% in the period from a year ago when foot traffic was dented by an E. coli outbreak, ahead of analyst estimates and the highest since 2023. Earnings, excluding one-time items, also outpaced the average of estimates compiled by Bloomberg, as did comparable sales at the company's two international div ...

Core Insights - The affluent demographic continues to frequent drive-thrus, indicating a sustained demand for fast food services, particularly from McDonald's [1] Company Summary - McDonald's is strategically focusing on attracting wealthier customers to maintain its market position and drive sales growth [1] - The company aims to enhance its menu offerings and drive-thru experience to cater to this demographic [1] Industry Summary - The fast food industry is witnessing a trend where higher-income consumers are increasingly utilizing drive-thru services, suggesting a shift in consumer behavior [1] - This trend presents opportunities for fast food chains to innovate and adapt their services to meet the preferences of affluent customers [1]

Group 1: Software Stocks - Retail investors are actively buying software stocks despite the current poor performance of the sector, with some analysts cautioning against this trend [2][11] - The sentiment around software stocks is mixed, with some believing the market has overreacted and presents buying opportunities, while others remain skeptical about the long-term viability of certain companies like Workday and Salesforce [11][14] - The AI trade is still in its early stages, causing anxiety among investors about potential job losses and market changes, but there is optimism about new job creation in the long run [12][19] Group 2: Consumer Staples - Consumer staples have been performing well, with companies like Coca-Cola reporting solid earnings, while Kraft's performance was disappointing [3][42] - McDonald's has seen strong US sales attributed to value offerings and marketing strategies, despite concerns about the impact of GLP-1 weight loss drugs on consumer behavior [46][61] - The company is focusing on value and affordability to attract lower-income consumers, which has been successful in recent quarters [49][52] Group 3: Memory Chips - Lenovo's CEO indicated that the memory chip shortage affecting hardware companies will continue into the year-end, echoing sentiments from Cisco's CEO [5][6] - This ongoing shortage is seen as beneficial for memory chip companies like Sandisk, which are experiencing stock price increases [6] Group 4: Economic Outlook - The economy is showing signs of strength, with corporate earnings exceeding expectations and a robust jobs report indicating private payroll growth [23][26] - Analysts suggest that the current economic conditions favor cyclical and defensive value stocks, with the value trade up 4.5% year-to-date compared to a 1.5% decline in growth stocks [24][25] - There is a belief that the economy does not require further rate cuts, as current conditions do not indicate a downturn [28][29]

The McDonald's AnalystsTD Cowen analyst Andrew Charles maintained a Hold rating on McDonald's stock with a price target of $320.BTIG analyst Peter Saleh reiterated a Buy rating and raised the price target from $360 to $370.TD Cowen: McDonald's fourth quarter results represent a "strong end to 2025," Charles said in a new investor note.The analyst cautions that higher interest, higher G&A guidance, and higher-than-expected CapEx guidance could be negatives from the quarterly results."We are encouraged by bet ...

瑞银将麦当劳目标价从350美元上调至365美元。 来源：滚动播报 ...