McDonald's Earnings: 3 Trends to Watch

McDonald's (NYSE: MCD) shares had been keeping pace with the broader market's rally last year -- right up until late October. That's when the fast-food giant's stock fell in the wake of soft third-quarter results.

The chain posted strong global sales growth and industry-leading profitability. However, there was no evidence of the U.S. rebound that executives have been targeting for over a year. The Q3 report also raised questions about whether Mickey D's can thrive in an environment where consumers opt for delivery over carry-out or drive-thru options.

Its fourth-quarter earnings report should add clarity around these challenges while also helping investors learn the priorities of Chris Kempczinksi, who recently took over the CEO position following the abrupt exit of Steve Easterbrook in early November.

Continue reading

Source Fool.com