McDonald's is expected to report second-quarter 2026 earnings on Wednesday that exceed Wall Street estimates, as the Chicago-based chain's expanded value offerings restore US customer traffic after several weak quarters. Analysts polled by FactSet forecast earnings of roughly $3.30 per share on revenue near $6.7 billion.

The company has leaned heavily on affordability to counter pressure on lower-income diners squeezed by inflation and tariff-driven price increases. Chief Executive Chris Kempczinski has said the extended $5 value meal and app-based deals were central to reversing a slide in same-store sales that troubled the chain through 2025.

Investors will watch US comparable sales closely, with consensus pointing to low-single-digit growth after prior declines. International markets, particularly the franchised division covering Europe and the Middle East, remain a swing factor given softer demand and currency headwinds.

A beat and reaffirmed guidance would reinforce the view that value-focused chains are outperforming as consumers trade down. McDonald's shares have gained modestly this year, and a positive print could extend that momentum, though executives are expected to remain cautious about the spending outlook for the second half.

"The consumer is being deliberate, and value is winning," Kempczinski said on the prior quarter's call, signalling continued discipline on pricing and promotions.