Fads come and go in the fast-food world, but people always seem to return to McDonald's (NYSE: MCD) when hunger strikes. The chain has led the industry for decades, through several tough recessions and constant competitive challenges.

Yet there's more to this business than just rock-solid growth. Shareholders' returns are bolstered by high profit margins, ample cash flow, and a dividend that's been expanding for decades. Here's why those factors make the stock an ideal one to have in your portfolio for the long term.

One hallmark of a successful business is that it can gain market share in just about any selling environment. McDonald's latest earnings results show off this key ability.

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Source Fool.com