McDonald's Sales Jump 2.2% in August
Excerpt from the InvestorGuide.com Stock of the Day on 9/9/2009

McDonald's is not traditionally known for gourmet-specialty coffees and Angus burgers, but the world's largest fast food chain is working hard to change that perception. The Golden Arches has launched a menu full of new food items this summer in an attempt to increase in sales. McDonald's has gravitated towards more premium offerings while most of its competitors are promoting discount oriented dining options like Burger King's $1 Whopper Junior and Wendy's 99 cents Double Stack burger. The recent economic downturn has amplified the competition as the fast food restaurants battle over market share. How is McDonald's strategy stacking up against the rest of the industry? Did sales improve for the fast food titan? More >

Does Burger King Have the Right Recipe?
Excerpt from the InvestorGuide.com Stock of the Day on 8/25/2009

Consumers have been forced to make concessions during these volatile economic times. Some have cut back on shopping while others have given up expensive cars and homes. One thing consumers are not giving up is fast food. Chains such as Wendy's (WEN: Charts, News, Offers), Arby's, and McDonald's (MCD: Charts, News, Offers) have thrived during the heart of the recession. Although these companies may not have the healthiest options, people are still purchasing their meals and raising profits. Who doesn't enjoy a burger or some fries every once in a while? Burger King is the latest fast food chain to report an increase in fourth quarter profits. What factors are keeping the company's earnings in positive territory? Will BK be able to maintain this upswing in the future? More >