McDonald's Stock Stalls Near 52-Week Low Amid Q2 Earnings Beat

McDonald's stock has been trading near its 52-week low in early September 2026, despite delivering higher-than-expected earnings and solid franchised margins in its second quarter of 2026 results.

The fast-food giant reported adjusted earnings per share of $3.38 in Q2 2026, a 6% increase compared to the same period last year and $0.06 above the consensus estimate of $3.32.

However, revenue growth moderated at 4%, missing the Zacks consensus forecast of $7.14 billion by about $40 million.

The company's margin profile is a key signal for investors, with franchised restaurant margins rising 4.3% to $3.71 billion, representing roughly 90% of total restaurant margin dollars.