McDonald's stock rises as international growth offsets U.S. sales slip

Published on 11/04/2026 at 17:06 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWS

McDonald's stock moves higher after mixed third-quarter results. International growth offset weaker U.S. restaurant sales and traffic.

Results Show Mixed Operating Trends

International markets lifted McDonald's global comparable sales during the third quarter.
Lower U.S. guest counts were largely offset by higher spending per visit.
Management said U.S. trends improved during the quarter as value initiatives expanded.

McDonald’s, US5801351017, Illustration mit AI erstellt.

McDonald's reported mixed third-quarter results on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, as international growth offset weaker U.S. restaurant demand. CNBC reported that net revenue rose to USD 7.16 billion and net income reached USD 2.49 billion for the quarter ended September 30.

McDonald's stock traded at 245.60 euros on Lang & Schwarz at 17:01 CET on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 4.69 percent above the Xetra close of Tuesday, November 3. The quote was 4.78 percent above the 234.40-euro level cited in the own report published on November 3, a separate comparison from the Xetra daily move.

International Growth Offsets U.S. Pressure

Global comparable sales increased 1.5 percent. International developmental licensed markets, including Japan and China, delivered stronger growth, while the U.S. comparable-sales decline reflected fewer guest visits that were largely offset by higher average spending per visit.

Chief Executive Chris Kempczinski said U.S. trends improved as the quarter progressed after the company increased its focus on value. The update leaves traffic recovery and the durability of promotional demand as key issues for investors in the next quarter.

What Has Changed Since Our Last Report

The earnings release replaces the pre-results traffic setup with operating evidence. October promotions had offered an early sign of improved demand, while the quarterly figures show that the U.S. business still faced weaker customer counts even as international operations supported overall growth.

Investors can follow the real-time quote of McDonald's stock for the latest trading level.

Broader U.S. equity sentiment remains relevant through the S&P 500 market reports.

More coverage is available in more news and analyses on McDonald's stock.