McDonald's (MCD) Upgraded to Buy by Argus on Strong Competitive Positioning
Argus analyst John Staszak upgraded McDonald's (MCD) to Buy from Hold with a $380 price target, citing its strong competitive position through value menus, digital investments, and new product launches. This upgrade follows a positive response from Wall Street analysts to the company's Q4 2025 earnings report, with some maintaining a bullish outlook for the stock. JPMorgan and Deutsche Bank also hold positive ratings, emphasizing the success of McDonald's value strategy and its efforts to recapture market attention.
McDonald’s (MCD) Upgraded to Buy by Argus on Strong Competitive Positioning
Argus analyst John Staszak upgraded McDonald's (MCD) to Buy from Hold with a $380 price target, citing the company's strong ability to attract budget-conscious customers through value menus and promotional offers, as well as its digital platform investments and new product launches. Following a positive Q4 2025 earnings report, other analysts like JPMorgan's John Ivankoe also expressed bullish views, highlighting the traction of McDonald's value strategy and anticipated stronger franchisee profitability. Despite acknowledging McDonald's growth potential, the article suggests that some AI stocks might offer greater promise for higher returns and limited downside risk.
Texas Roadhouse, Inc. (NASDAQ:TXRH) Plans Dividend Increase - $0.75 Per Share
Texas Roadhouse (NASDAQ:TXRH) has announced a quarterly dividend increase to $0.75 per share, representing a 10.3% rise, payable on March 31st. This dividend is well-covered by earnings with a payout ratio of 35.8% and expectations for EPS to further improve coverage next year. Despite missing Q4 EPS and revenue estimates, analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an average price target of $197.32.
Texas Roadhouse, Inc. (NASDAQ:TXRH) Q4 2025 Earnings Call Transcript
This is an earnings call transcript for Texas Roadhouse, Inc. (NASDAQ:TXRH) for Q4 2025. The company reported continued revenue growth, with sales reaching nearly $5.9 billion in 2025, marking its 60th consecutive quarter of comparable restaurant sales growth. Key highlights include the opening of their 800th system-wide restaurant, acquisition of 20 franchise locations, and a planned 1.9% menu price increase in Q2 2026 to offset commodity inflation, which is expected to be around 7% for the year.
Conagra Brands appoints John Mulligan, Pietro Satriano to its board of directors
Conagra Brands has appointed John Mulligan and Pietro Satriano to its Board of Directors, increasing the board's size to 12 members. These appointments aim to strengthen the company's governance and bring additional operational and financial expertise, particularly in retail operations, supply chain resilience, and C-suite leadership. The move is expected to support Conagra's strategic focus on portfolio optimization, innovation, and shareholder returns in a competitive market.
Restaurant Brands China Venture Reshapes Growth Prospects And Profitability Outlook
Restaurant Brands International has formed a new joint venture with CPE Alder Investment Limited to significantly expand Burger King's presence in China, aiming to double its restaurant count by 2030. This strategic shift, which involves CPE taking majority ownership, is expected to inject capital for growth while addressing cost pressures and uneven consumer demand across RBI's brands. Despite higher sales in 2025, net income declined, highlighting margin challenges the company hopes to overcome with this new partnership and focus on franchise-led expansion.
McDonald's CapEx Steps Higher: What's Supporting the ROI Case?
McDonald's is increasing its capital expenditures to $3.7-$3.9 billion in 2026, up from $3.4 billion in 2025, primarily for new restaurant openings and development pipeline. The company plans to open approximately 2,600 new restaurants globally in 2026, aiming for 50,000 worldwide by the end of 2027, with new units performing as expected even in mature markets. Despite the higher investment, McDonald's stock has outperformed its industry peers over the past year, though its forward P/S ratio is above the industry average, with a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
Why Jack in the Box bets parking lot paint can cure sales
Jack in the Box is implementing low-cost cosmetic changes, such as fresh paint and re-striped parking lots, to its restaurants in an effort to boost sales and prepare for a larger remodel program. The chain also plans to close 50 to 100 underperforming franchised units and is working to improve its value proposition and food quality to address sliding same-store sales and maintain profitability for franchisees. Despite these efforts, the company remains heavily indebted and faces challenges with price-sensitive consumers.
Why is Six Flags losing visitors?
Six Flags Entertainment Corp. reported 2025 earnings and revenue slightly above analyst estimates, but attendance contracted in the fourth quarter for the first time since 2023, resulting in a 9% drop in admissions revenue. CEO John Reilly acknowledged that results fell short of expectations and highlighted investments made in park infrastructure, new attractions, technology systems, and food and beverage offerings. The company continues to face challenges with its elevated debt burden following a failed merger with Cedar Fair in 2024.
Texas Roadhouse, Inc. $TXRH Shares Purchased by Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board
Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board significantly increased its stake in Texas Roadhouse (TXRH) by 44.1% in Q3, now owning 28,334 shares. Despite high institutional ownership (94.82%), company insiders have been net sellers, with CEO Gerald L. Morgan selling 5,000 shares recently. Analysts currently rate TXRH as a "Moderate Buy" with an average target price of $196.57, though the stock currently trades around $186.87.
The Zacks Analyst Blog Applied Materials, McDonald's, Texas Instruments and Lulu's Fashion Lounge
This Zacks Analyst Blog highlights research reports on 16 major stocks, including Applied Materials, McDonald's, and Texas Instruments, alongside a micro-cap stock, Lulu's Fashion Lounge. The article details recent performance, growth drivers, and challenges for each company, offering insights from Zacks Equity Research analysts. It also mentions Zacks' "Ahead of Wall Street" daily article and their stock-picking strategies.
Don't Ignore The Insider Selling In Yum China Holdings
Yum China Holdings CEO Joey Wat recently sold US$5.7 million worth of company stock, reducing their total holding by 13%. While this insider selling at market prices is a cause for caution, there has been no insider buying in the last year. The article highlights that Yum China Holdings is profitable and growing, but its insider ownership of 0.5% is not exceptionally high, leading to a cautious outlook.
Former teacher leads McDonald's Atlanta community efforts - Bizwomen
Kelly Lee, a former elementary school teacher, leads McDonald's Corp.'s community affairs in Atlanta, earning a Leaders in Corporate Citizenship Award. She focuses on strategic partnerships and entrepreneurship programs for youth, leveraging McDonald's franchise model. Lee also champions employee development through the Archways to Opportunity program and is actively involved in extensive civic work across Atlanta.
Stifel Nicolaus Sticks to Its Buy Rating for CAVA Group, Inc. (CAVA)
Stifel Nicolaus analyst Chris O`Cull maintained a Buy rating for CAVA Group, Inc. with a $75.00 price target, highlighting the analyst's positive track record in the Consumer Cyclical sector. Despite some analyst divergence, with Benchmark Co. also issuing a Buy and Citi a Hold, CAVA Group reported increased quarterly revenue of $292.24 million, although net profit slightly decreased. Insider sentiment is currently negative, with recent share sales by a corporate insider.
Top Research Reports for Applied Materials, McDonald's & Texas Instruments
Zacks Research Daily has published new reports on 16 major stocks, including Applied Materials, McDonald's, and Texas Instruments. Applied Materials is seeing growth in its Semiconductor Systems and Applied Global Services, while McDonald's benefits from strong international comparable sales and expansion plans. Texas Instruments is gaining from data center demand and a focus on expanding its product portfolio.
Conagra Brands Announces Appointment of John Mulligan and Pietro Satriano to its Board of Directors
Conagra Brands has appointed John Mulligan, former COO of Target, and Pietro Satriano, former CEO of US Foods Holding Corp., to its board of directors, increasing the board to 12 members. Both bring extensive experience in retail, corporate governance, and the food industry, which Conagra believes will support its strategy, technology integration, and innovation agenda.
Is Chipotle Leveraging AI to Reengage Lapsed Customers?
Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG) is expanding its use of AI within its digital platform to enhance customer engagement, specifically targeting lapsed or less frequent customers with personalized communications and offers. This strategy differentiates Chipotle from competitors like McDonald's, which focuses on operational efficiency, and Yum! Brands, which emphasizes broad digital growth. Despite these efforts, CMG's stock has underperformed, with estimates for fiscal 2026 EPS showing a decline, leading to a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell).
Former teacher leads McDonald's Atlanta community efforts - Bizwomen
Kelly Lee, McDonald's regional community affairs lead, has been recognized for her leadership in philanthropy in Atlanta, earning the Leaders in Corporate Citizenship Award. Drawing on her past experience as an elementary school teacher, Lee focuses on creating strategic partnerships and leveraging McDonald's franchise model to address critical community needs, particularly in areas of food security and workforce development. She champions programs like Archways to Opportunity and plays an active civic role in supporting various non-profits and community initiatives.
Burger King's president is giving customers his phone number
Burger King's U.S. and Canada president, Tom Curtis, is publicly sharing his work phone number to directly solicit customer feedback. He plans to dedicate several hours daily to take calls and texts, aiming to identify key areas for improvement in restaurants, technology, and marketing as part of Burger King's "elevation" strategy. This unconventional move is intended to gather a broad range of customer experiences and insights to further the brand's recent positive momentum.
Jim Cramer Is Happy About Chipotle (CMG)
Jim Cramer has expressed optimism about Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG) following the company's decision to lower expectations, which he believes will lead to better-than-anticipated same-store sales numbers. Despite recent analyst downgrades of price targets, Cramer highlighted Chipotle's new ad campaign and specials as potential drivers for increased customer traffic. The article also touches on analyst coverage from Guggenheim and Telsey Advisory, both of whom adjusted price targets for CMG.
Erste Group upgrades McDonald’s stock rating on sales outlook
Erste Group upgraded McDonald's Corp. stock to Buy from Hold, anticipating stronger sales growth in 2026 and noting the company's high operating margin and consistent dividend payments. Analyst Hans Engel highlighted McDonald's profitability and P/E ratio aligns with the sector average as reasons for potential share price increase. This upgrade follows several positive analyst updates after McDonald's strong fourth-quarter earnings report.
Former teacher leads McDonald's Atlanta community efforts - Bizwomen
Kelly Lee, a former elementary school teacher, leads McDonald's Corp.'s community affairs in Atlanta, transforming corporate social responsibility into a personal mission. Recognized with the Leaders in Corporate Citizenship Award, she leverages McDonald's franchise model to teach entrepreneurship and provides vital support like tuition assistance and ESL classes to employees through the Archways to Opportunity program. Lee's work focuses on addressing systemic barriers for youth and employees in Atlanta, particularly in food security and workforce development.
Former teacher leads McDonald's Atlanta community efforts - Bizwomen
Kelly Lee, a former elementary school teacher, has been recognized with the Leaders in Corporate Citizenship Award for her philanthropic work as McDonald's regional community affairs lead in Atlanta. Lee focuses on strategic partnerships, using McDonald's franchise model to teach entrepreneurship to Atlanta Public Schools students and championing programs like Archways to Opportunity for employee education and support. Her extensive civic involvement extends beyond McDonald's, aiming to address unmet community needs.
Former teacher leads McDonald's Atlanta community efforts - Bizwomen
Kelly Lee, a former elementary school teacher, has been recognized with the Leaders in Corporate Citizenship Award for her work as the regional community affairs lead for McDonald’s Corp.’s Atlanta field office. She uses her experience in education to create strategic partnerships, including an entrepreneurship program for Atlanta Public Schools and championing the Archways to Opportunity program for McDonald's employees. Lee focuses on addressing critical needs like food security and workforce development, leveraging McDonald's franchise model for community benefit.
Pilgrim's Pride's Q4 Earnings Call: Our Top 5 Analyst Questions
Pilgrim's Pride's Q4 results showed revenue growth but missed adjusted EPS expectations due to margin compression, despite strong demand in U.S. retail and foodservice. CEO Fabio Sandri cited persistent inflation and commodity market pressure, particularly in Mexico and Europe, as key factors affecting profitability. Analysts' questions focused on supply-side pressures, commodity price sustainability, Mexico's market volatility, foodservice dynamics, and the impact of diseases in Europe.
The Top 5 Analyst Questions From McDonald's's Q4 Earnings Call
This article summarizes McDonald's's strong Q4 CY2025 earnings, highlighting robust revenue and EPS growth driven by value initiatives and marketing. It then details the top five analyst questions from the earnings call, covering topics such as U.S. sales drivers, margin impact of value items, increased capital spending for new stores, the effect of GLP-1 medications on menu strategy, and the influence of the loyalty program. The article concludes by listing key catalysts for McDonald's in upcoming quarters.
Aberdeen Group plc Sells 50,643 Shares of Texas Roadhouse, Inc. $TXRH
Aberdeen Group plc reduced its stake in Texas Roadhouse, Inc. by 26.7% in Q3, selling 50,643 shares and now holding 138,878 shares valued at $23.1 million. Company insiders have also sold shares, with CEO Gerald L. Morgan offloading 5,000 shares for $980,000. Wall Street analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an average price target of $196.57.
Rep. Gilbert Ray Cisneros, Jr. Sells Off Shares of Texas Roadhouse, Inc. (NASDAQ:TXRH)
Representative Gilbert Ray Cisneros, Jr. (D-California) recently sold between $1,001 and $15,000 worth of Texas Roadhouse (NASDAQ:TXRH) stock on January 5th, as disclosed in a February 13th filing. Concurrently, he invested similar amounts in shares of several other companies, including Hermès, Tencent, Xiaomi, and Costco. Texas Roadhouse shares a day later rose about 3.3% to $186.90, and the company has an average analyst rating of "Moderate Buy" with a target price of $196.57.
Assessing Brinker International's Valuation After Strong Quarter And Raised Guidance Attract Analyst Upgrades
Brinker International has garnered attention from Wall Street and rating agencies after a strong financial quarter, raised full-year guidance, and positive earnings estimate revisions. Despite recent small share price movements, its 90-day return of 25.9% and 3-year total shareholder return of over 3x indicate strong momentum. The company is considered 16% undervalued with a fair value of $191.05 per share, driven by investments in menu innovation, digital initiatives, and potential for revenue and margin expansion, though challenges like higher labor and commodity costs pose risks.
Ford CEO Elected To Board Of McDonalds
Ford President and CEO Jim Farley has been elected to the Board of Directors for the McDonald's Corporation, while simultaneously exiting the board of Harley-Davidson. Chris Kempczinski, Chairman and CEO of McDonald's, highlighted Farley's experience in innovation, customer experience, and leveraging technology. Farley expressed his admiration for McDonald's as a "values-driven, forward-looking company" and looks forward to contributing to its growth.
Ford CEO Elected To Board Of McDonalds
Ford President and CEO Jim Farley has been elected to the Board of Directors for McDonald's Corporation, while simultaneously stepping down from the board of Harley-Davidson. Farley will be one of 12 board members for the fast-food giant, bringing his experience in balancing innovation, customer experience, and technology to McDonald's. His election comes as he concludes his tenure on the Harley-Davidson board and he expressed admiration for McDonald's as a "values-driven, forward-looking company."
25 Newly Overvalued Stocks this Week
Morningstar identifies 25 US-listed stocks that have recently become overvalued, warranting 1- or 2-star ratings. Key companies moving into the 2-star category include Procter & Gamble, Novartis, McDonald's, Lowe's Companies, and Rolls-Royce Holdings, while Mizuho Financial Group, Itaú Unibanco Holding, Sherwin-Williams, Hilton Worldwide Holdings, and Vistra are among the new 1-star stocks. The article explains Morningstar's rating system, which considers stock price, fair value estimate, and uncertainty rating to assess valuation.
Ford CEO Elected To Board Of McDonalds
Ford President and CEO Jim Farley has been elected to the Board of Directors for McDonald's Corporation, while simultaneously stepping down from the board of Harley-Davidson. Farley, who brings extensive experience in innovation and operational excellence, joins 11 other board members for the fast-food giant. McDonald's leaders emphasize that Farley's expertise in business optimization and customer experience will be valuable for their strategic direction and future growth.
Burger King doubles down on customer feedback with new initiative
Burger King President Tom Curtis is launching a new initiative to directly collect customer feedback by taking calls and texts for several hours a day. This builds on the success of their "Whopper by You" platform, aiming to gather unfiltered input on menu items, loyalty programs, and service quality. The feedback will be used to drive accountability and make tangible improvements, reflecting a continued commitment to being a consumer-driven brand.
MCD and TXRH: 2 Low-Risk Restaurant Stocks With Upside
This article examines why McDonald's (MCD) and Texas Roadhouse (TXRH) are low-risk restaurant stocks with upside despite a challenging economic environment. McDonald's continues to dominate the fast-food market through its value leadership strategy and strong Q4 2025 results. Texas Roadhouse grows market share by offering value to cost-conscious customers and premium options, demonstrating resilience against rising beef prices. Both companies are well-positioned for continued growth and outperformance in the restaurant industry.
Vanguard Group Inc. Has $7.43 Billion Stake in Fastenal Company $FAST
Vanguard Group Inc. significantly increased its stake in Fastenal Company, purchasing an additional 2,346,045 shares, bringing its total holdings to 151,515,539 shares valued at $7.43 billion. This represents about 13.20% of the company, with institutional investors owning 81.38% overall. Fastenal recently reported quarterly earnings in line with estimates and raised its quarterly dividend to $0.24 per share.
M&G PLC Boosts Stake in Texas Roadhouse, Inc. $TXRH
M&G PLC increased its stake in Texas Roadhouse, Inc. by 16.0% during the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to 79,634 shares valued at $13.22 million. Despite this, company insiders, including a director and the CEO, have recently sold a total of 12,400 shares worth $2.32 million. Analysts currently rate Texas Roadhouse as a "Moderate Buy" with an average target price of $196.57.
The Value Pivot: McDonald’s Q4 Results Reveal a Defensive Masterclass in a Price-Sensitive 2026 Economy
McDonald’s Q4 2025 financial results demonstrate a successful "McValue" pivot, driving significant comparable sales growth and reaffirming its position as a value leader in a price-sensitive market. The company's strategy of aggressive digital loyalty engagement and permanent value offerings has paid off, influencing the competitive landscape. However, concerns remain regarding the impact on franchisee margins and the sustainability of this growth strategy long-term.
MCDONALDS : Buy rating from DZ Bank
DZ Bank analyst Katharina Schmenger has maintained a Buy rating on McDonald's Corporation stock. This recommendation was published on February 16, 2026, at 06:50 am EST. The report from MarketScreener with dpa-AFX Analyser highlights the ongoing positive outlook for the fast-food giant.
Restaurant Brands International: A Shakier Bet As Rivals Pull Ahead (Rating Downgrade)
Restaurant Brands International (QSR) has been downgraded to neutral due to slowing domestic comparable sales and increasing price competition from rivals like McDonald's. While international growth remains strong, the decline in U.S. and Canadian sales raises concerns about market share. Despite improved operating income and margins, the company's high leverage ratio and net debt, coupled with a seemingly fair but not compelling valuation, suggest reducing exposure until market conditions improve.
McDonald’s invests in deforestation-free soy initiative to strengthen sustainable sourcing
McDonald's has joined the Responsible Commodities Facility (RCF) to invest in deforestation-free and conversion-free soy production in Brazil’s Cerrado, specifically for chicken feed used outside the US and Canada. The investment aims to strengthen the company's sustainable sourcing strategy, protect critical ecosystems, and reduce supply chain risks. This initiative reflects the significance of chicken on McDonald's global menu, making the soy in poultry feed a key sustainability focus, with other major investors contributing to the RCF as well.
Restaurant Brands International (QSR) Is Down 6.8% After Mixed Earnings And Higher Dividend Target - Has The Bull Case Changed?
Restaurant Brands International (QSR) recently reported mixed Q4 and full-year 2025 results, with higher revenue but lower net income, alongside an increased dividend target for 2026. The company is advancing its international expansion, particularly with Burger King in China, while dealing with uneven performance from other brands like Popeyes and slower U.S. Burger King remodels. Despite a 6.8% stock drop post-earnings, the article examines how the international growth and higher dividend impact QSR's investment outlook, maintaining that the core narrative of franchise-led expansion remains, but margin pressures and inconsistent brand performance persist as key risks.
Restaurant Brands International sales up 5.8% in Q4 2025
Restaurant Brands International (RBI) saw its consolidated system-wide sales increase by 5.8% to $12.13 billion in Q4 2025, with comparable sales rising 3.1%, primarily driven by its international segment. Despite this growth, net income from continuing operations decreased. RBI also announced a joint venture for Burger King China and declared a quarterly dividend of $0.65 per share for Q1 2026.
McDonald’s Corporation (MCD) eyes balancing value and profit as analysts reassess pricing upside
McDonald's Corporation (MCD) is navigating a complex market, balancing offering value to customers with maintaining profit margins. Analysts are reassessing McDonald's pricing strategies and potential for further price increases following recent financial performance discussions. The company's future stock performance hinges on its ability to effectively manage these dynamics
Jack in the Box Is Bringing Back One of Its Most Requested Burgers Ever for Its 75th Anniversary
Jack in the Box is celebrating its 75th anniversary by bringing back the highly requested Hot Mess Burger for a limited time. This cult favorite, absent for over a decade, features a 100% beef patty, white cheese sauce, pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, and onion rings on sourdough. The anniversary celebration also includes a throwback marketing campaign, an anniversary tour, and the return of other nostalgic menu items like the Chicken Supreme.
Final days until LongHorn Steakhouse rival opens new restaurant - bosses confirm February 16th date
Texas Roadhouse is set to open a new restaurant in Marlton, New Jersey, on February 16, directly competing with LongHorn Steakhouse. This opening is part of the company's plan to launch 35 new locations nationwide by the end of the year. The Marlton restaurant replaces a former TGI Fridays, and its upcoming opening has generated excitement among local diners.
McDonald’s Corporation (MCD) eyes balancing value and profit as analysts reassess pricing upside
This article discusses McDonald's Corporation's strategy to balance offering value to customers with maintaining profitability. Analysts are reassessing McDonald's pricing power, suggesting the company is navigating a delicate line between affordability and protecting its margins in a competitive market. The report likely delves into financial aspects and potential market reactions to this strategy.
McDonald’s stock price dips after a late-week swing as upgrades collide with a busy macro calendar
McDonald's stock dipped on Friday, falling 1.4% to $327.58, despite recent analyst upgrades. The retreat occurred just before a holiday-shortened trading week, with investors anticipating Federal Reserve minutes, PCE data, and Q4 GDP numbers. McDonald's reported strong Q4 global comparable sales and increased its quarterly dividend, but faces headwinds from cost inflation and tough winter weather.
McDonald’s stock: MCD pulls back from $335 high as Argus upgrades; traders watch new McCafé drinks
McDonald's (MCD) stock pulled back from a high of $335, closing at $327.58, despite an upgrade to Buy by Argus with a $380 price target, and a Jefferies price target increase to $375. The company is focusing on expanding its McCafé beverages, with a successful 500-store test showing increased sales and predictions for significant comparable sales growth from new CosMc's-inspired drinks. Investors are also anticipating the return of seasonal items like the Shamrock Shake and upcoming macroeconomic data that could influence consumer stocks.
A Look At Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG) Valuation After First Comp Sales Decline And Ackman Exit
Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG) is being scrutinized after its first year-over-year decline in comparable restaurant sales and a forecast of flat comps for 2026, alongside a notable investor exit. Despite a 17.9% undervaluation by analysts with a fair value of $44.24, the market's P/E ratio of 30.8x suggests a valuation stretch, especially compared to the US Hospitality group's 21.4x. International expansion efforts, particularly into Mexico and further into Latin America and Europe, are anticipated to fuel future revenue growth for the company.
