McDonald’s Corporate Earnings Are This Quarter’s Real Happy Meal

Viral YouTube videos of McDonald's Executives doing backflips may be thrust upon us soon…

From a press release;

McDonald's U.S. continues to be a convenient and affordable choice for consumers in an uncertain economy. For the first quarter, the U.S. business drove sales and market share increases by providing outstanding value across the entire menu, contributing to the segment's 12% operating income increase. Consumers visited McDonald's more often to enjoy a wide range of beverage offerings including value-based drinks, frappes and the entire McCafe line-up, everyday value menu options, led by the recently introduced Breakfast Dollar Menu, and classic core favorites like Chicken McNuggets.

The Company reported the following highlights for the quarter:

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Global comparable sales increased 4.2%, with the U.S. up 1.5%, Europe up 5.2% and Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa up 5.7%

Combined operating margin improved 220 basis points to 29.8%

Diluted earnings per share were $1.00, up 15% (9% in constant currencies) including a $0.05 per share currency benefit

Returned $1.0 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends

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Happy Meals For All.