McDonald's Mixed Q2 Results: Analysts See 42.5% Upside Potential

McDonald's Corp is one of the largest quick-service restaurant brands in the world, operating over 100 countries. The company has a market cap of $195.1 billion and its menu varies across different markets to adapt to local tastes.

The stock has declined 10.4% over the past year and 2026, compared to the S&P 500 Index ($SPX) 21.3% surge over the past year and 13.3% rise this year. Focusing on its industry benchmark, the State Street Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLY) has risen 7% over the past year.

On August 5, McDonald's delivered a mixed Q2 FY2026 results with earnings growth keeping the burger giant afloat even as sales momentum cooled. Revenue rose 3.7% year over year to $7.10 billion, while net income increased 4.8% to $2.36 billion.

Adjusted EPS climbed 6% to $3.38, beating expectations, helped by stronger franchised margins and other operating income. However, the bigger concern was customer traffic, with global comparable sales rising just 1.3%, down sharply from 3.8% a year earlier.