Stockchase Opinions

Stockchase InsightsMcDonaldsMCDBUY ON WEAKNESSOct 25, 2024

Trevor Rose’s Insights - Trevor’s most-liked answers from 5i Research

MCD reported an E. coli outbreak from its quarter pounder burger across 10 US states. The outbreak started between late September and mid-October. MCD has temporarily stopped using certain ingredients in affected areas. The stock fell sharply the day following the news, and it is currently down 5% (an $11B market cap loss) from just prior to the news.  

We do not feel that the outbreak warrants an $11B loss to the stock, particularly over the long-term, but the stock has run up nicely over the past few months, and this could partially be profit-taking in conjunction with the news release. We would prefer to see the stock find a floor before entering a position, but over the long-term, we would be comfortable holding the name.
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Stock price when the opinion was issued

$267.18

As of Jun 29, 2026. Market Open.

food services
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DON'T BUY

Is near August 2024 lows. Is still operating very well, but inflation is eating into profits. Don't need to rush into this.

DON'T BUY

The headwinds are pretty severe, The consumer is strapped along with a K shaped economy where 80% are at the lower end and are struggling. They make up the bulk of McDonalds users. There is also a strong move towards better eating habits, health consciousness and weight loss medications.

PARTIAL BUY

It's fine, but beef is too expensive. MCD yields 2.6% and has a great reputation and sells at 21x PE. You can buy a tranche now, then more at $275, $270, $265 and $260.

TOP PICK

Half its business is NA, half international. Not a huge amount of growth, perhaps 5-6%. EPS growth of 7-8%. Opens a few new stores a year. More of a landlord, with over 90% franchised. Very high ROIC. 

Only 20x PE today, down from historically high 20s. In his world, it's a staple not discretionary :) Yield is 2.65%.

(Analysts’ price target is $330.15)
BUY ON WEAKNESS

The chart is breaking down. Trades at only 21x PE, but their last quarter was only okay. Pays a 2.75 dividend. Would buy at 3%.

DON'T BUY

Has been a stalwart name, except now. Is waiting to hear how they will use AI and robots in the future. When inflation is high, people spend less on fast food. The chart trend is broken. If it recovers, he'd be all over this.

HOLD

Recent weakness could be explained by excitement of owning momentum stocks, which ripped in April. As well, NA consumer is wrestling with higher prices.

Very consistent company, terrific brand. He prefers QSR at its cheaper multiple and faster growth, or DPZ.

BUY

 She owns MCD instead, because MCD owns the real estate of their branches, so they collect rent. Because they are global, MCD enjoys economies of scale. It's defensive. 

BUY

It reports today. A steady eddy. It benefits from the market move into value stocks. Strong cash and dividend levels.

COMMENT

 It reports on Wednesday. Trump cutting Brazilian tariffs could ease beef prices and help MCD.

BUY

Cattle prices have peak in a generational high, so prices will decline, making MCD a buy.

BUY

Run by a good CEO. He sees upside.

BUY

It reports Wednesday. The stock is out of synch from the company which is offering new, limited food items.

WATCH

Ability to source domestically is quite high, so impact of tariffs would be neutral. Extremely well run. Very good at pivoting to whatever the customer wants. Keeps a close eye on it. Likes the business; valuation a bit high for pedestrian, yet predictable, growth.

BUY

Was downgraded last Friday and today over fears they won't meet expectations this quarter, including disappointment over MCD's new chicken strips dish, that it won't turn things around. Rather, customer prefer heavily breaded chicken and the find these strips ugly. However, history says it has never paid to downgrade MCD. It's the king, offering good value and is highly well-run. The CEO will figure it out.