Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants. It sells food and beverages through offering burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. The company also provides delivery and related services its app and website. It has operations in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Newport Beach, California.

Chipotle looks like a high-quality but already expensive business: profitability and return on capital remain very high, yet the market valuation across most multiples is noticeably above the industry average. A P/E of 29.8, P/S of 3.85, P/B of 17.1, and P/FCF of 31.5 indicate a premium to the sector, and this premium does not appear fully justified, because the evolution of the multiples does not show a sustained re-rating to lower levels. The company’s strength lies in its high efficiency: ROE of 48.4%, ROA of 15.8%, and return on tangible equity of 48.8% are significantly above the industry median, while operating and net margins also remain strong. At the same time, profitability is not improving, but rather gradually declining: gross margin has fallen to 24.65% and is now below the industry median, and operating margin has declined versus earlier periods, which limits the potential for further revaluation. Revenue, EBITDA, operating profit, and net income remain at high levels and generally support the investment case, but growth rates no longer look convincing enough to justify such high multiples. The company has no long-term debt on its balance sheet, which is an important positive and reduces financial risk. However, liquidity looks weaker than comfortable: a quick ratio of 0.68 and a current ratio of 0.92 are below industry benchmarks, and cash on hand has declined noticeably compared with earlier periods. Shareholders’ equity is also decreasing year by year, which partly explains the very high P/B ratio and calls for caution in valuation. The company does not pay dividends, so investors do not receive a defensive income stream, and the entire thesis rests on business growth and multiple expansion. Overall, the fundamentals remain strong, but the current price already reflects a significant portion of these advantages. For a conservative investor, this is more a story of a high-quality business with limited short-term upside than an obvious undervaluation. Therefore, it makes sense to slightly lower the target level, taking into account the expensive valuation, weakening liquidity, and lack of dividend support.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.

Сильный индекс, без изменений. Быки в растерянности.

Strong index, flat. The bulls are confused.

Сильный индекс, без изменений. Рынок не поддерживает быков.

Strong index, flat. The market does not support the bulls.

Слабый индекс, значительно вырос

CMG remains a highly profitable, debt-free business, but it trades at a significant premium to the industry despite deteriorating liquidity and declining margins.

A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Brinker International (EAT). Shares have lost about 10% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.
But investors have to be wondering, will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Brinker International due for a breakout? Well, first let's take a quick look at the latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Brinker International, Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.
Brinker Q4 Earnings Meet Estimates, Revenues Beat on Chili's Growth
Brinker reported fourth-quarter fiscal 2026 results, with earnings in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate while revenues surpassed the same. Both the top and bottom lines increased on a year-over-year basis.
In the quarter under review, Brinker reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $3.07, up 23.3% year over year and in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
Total revenues rose 5.1% year over year to $1.54 billion and beat the consensus mark by 0.4%.
The quarter benefited from sustained momentum at Chili’s, supported by positive traffic, menu pricing, strong everyday value, the Big Crispy launch and continued operational improvements. However, results were partly pressured by weaker traffic and restaurant closures at Maggiano’s, along with higher commodity, advertising and insurance costs.
EAT's Chili's Momentum Extends in Q4
Chili’s total revenues increased 6.2% year over year to $1.423 billion. Company sales rose 6.2% to $1.409 billion, while franchise revenues advanced 12.5% to $14.4 million. The brand continued to benefit from its value platform and menu innovation.
Comparable restaurant sales for Chili's increased 5.6% year over year, reflecting 4.3% pricing and 1.5% traffic growth, partly offset by a 0.2% negative mix impact. Management said the Big Crispy chicken sandwich helped sustain momentum, with sales rising to 55 sandwiches per restaurant per day by quarter-end from 20 before the launch.
Brinker's Maggiano's Trends Remain Challenged
Maggiano’s total revenues declined 7.8% year over year to $112.8 million. Company sales also fell 7.8% to $112.6 million, reflecting lower traffic and restaurant closures, partly offset by menu pricing.
Comparable restaurant sales decreased 2.5%. Traffic dropped 5.3% and mix was down 0.1%, while price contributed 2.9%. The brand’s non-GAAP restaurant operating margin contracted to 10.3% from 13.3%. Management said the turnaround is progressing more slowly than planned and modeled flat revenues and profits for fiscal 2027.
EAT's Q4 Margins Expand Despite Food Inflation
Operating income increased 17% year over year to $167 million, while operating income margin expanded 110 basis points to 10.9%. Non-GAAP restaurant operating margin improved 20 basis points to 18% of company sales. Net income rose 22.5% to $131.1 million, and GAAP earnings advanced to $2.99 from $2.30. Adjusted EBITDA increased 7.2% to $227.6 million.
Food and beverage costs rose to 26.3% of company sales from 25.5%, pressured by 4.4% commodity inflation, mainly higher beef costs and a temporary spike in tomato prices. Restaurant labor improved 90 basis points to 31.3%, as sales leverage offset 3.1% wage inflation and other investments. Restaurant expenses edged down 10 basis points to 24.4%. Advertising expense was 3% of sales, up 20 basis points, supporting the Big Crispy campaign.
Brinker's Cash Flow Supports Capital Returns
For fiscal 2026, net cash provided by operating activities rose 16.3% year over year to $789.4 million. Cash and cash equivalents ended the year at $110 million compared with $18.9 million a year earlier. Payments for property and equipment totaled $231.9 million.
Brinker used operating cash flow to repurchase $400 million of common stock during fiscal 2026. The board subsequently authorized total repurchase capacity of $750 million. After year-end, the company redeemed $350 million of 8.25% notes using its revolving credit facility, which management expects to generate interest savings in fiscal 2027. Brinker also plans to acquire 12 Chili’s franchise restaurants in Alabama and Mississippi.
EAT's FY27 Outlook Targets Continued Growth
For fiscal 2027, EAT expects total revenues of $6.15-$6.27 billion and adjusted earnings of $12.60-$13.40 per share. Capital expenditures are projected at $265-$285 million, with diluted weighted average shares of 42-43 million. The company plans 60-80 Chili’s reimages after completing 11 in fiscal 2026.
The outlook includes a 53rd operating week, which is expected to add about 2% to revenues and $0.70 to adjusted earnings per share. Management assumes low-single-digit commodity and wage inflation and three net new company-owned restaurant openings. For Chili’s, the plan assumes mid-single-digit same-store sales growth and positive traffic for the remainder of the year, along with 20-40 basis points of restaurant-level margin improvement on a 52-week basis.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?
In the past month, investors have witnessed a upward trend in estimates review.
The consensus estimate has shifted 13.04% due to these changes.
VGM Scores
Currently, Brinker International has a strong Growth Score of A, a score with the same score on the momentum front. Charting a somewhat similar path, the stock was allocated a grade of B on the value side, putting it in the top 40% for this investment strategy.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of A. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
Estimates have been trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions looks promising. It comes with little surprise Brinker International has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). We expect an above average return from the stock in the next few months.
Performance of an Industry Player
Brinker International is part of the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry. Over the past month, Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG), a stock from the same industry, has gained 10.8%. The company reported its results for the quarter ended June 2026 more than a month ago.
Chipotle reported revenues of $3.35 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +9.3%. EPS of $0.33 for the same period compares with $0.33 a year ago.
Chipotle is expected to post earnings of $0.29 per share for the current quarter, representing no change from the year-ago quarter. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -0.3%.
The overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions translate into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for Chipotle. Also, the stock has a VGM Score of C.
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Brinker International (EAT) Down 10% Since Last Earnings Report: Can It Rebound?

Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG) closed the most recent trading day at $36.03, moving -2.52% from the previous trading session. The stock's change was less than the S&P 500's daily loss of 0.48%. Elsewhere, the Dow lost 0.77%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq lost 0.64%.
Shares of the Mexican food chain have appreciated by 15.5% over the course of the past month, outperforming the Retail-Wholesale sector's loss of 6.98%, and the S&P 500's loss of 0.97%.
Market participants will be closely following the financial results of Chipotle Mexican Grill in its upcoming release. The company plans to announce its earnings on October 28, 2026. The company's upcoming EPS is projected at $0.29, signifying steadiness compared to the same quarter of the previous year. At the same time, our most recent consensus estimate is projecting a revenue of $3.28 billion, reflecting a 9.35% rise from the equivalent quarter last year.
CMG's full-year Zacks Consensus Estimates are calling for earnings of $1.15 per share and revenue of $13 billion. These results would represent year-over-year changes of -1.71% and +8.97%, respectively.
Investors should also note any recent changes to analyst estimates for Chipotle Mexican Grill. These revisions typically reflect the latest short-term business trends, which can change frequently. Consequently, upward revisions in estimates express analysts' positivity towards the business operations and its ability to generate profits.
Based on our research, we believe these estimate revisions are directly related to near-term stock moves. Investors can capitalize on this by using the Zacks Rank. This model considers these estimate changes and provides a simple, actionable rating system.
The Zacks Rank system, ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), possesses a remarkable history of outdoing, externally audited, with #1 stocks returning an average annual gain of +25% since 1988. Within the past 30 days, our consensus EPS projection has moved 0.12% higher. At present, Chipotle Mexican Grill boasts a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
With respect to valuation, Chipotle Mexican Grill is currently being traded at a Forward P/E ratio of 32.26. This indicates a premium in contrast to its industry's Forward P/E of 23.04.
Investors should also note that CMG has a PEG ratio of 2.26 right now. This metric is used similarly to the famous P/E ratio, but the PEG ratio also takes into account the stock's expected earnings growth rate. CMG's industry had an average PEG ratio of 1.82 as of yesterday's close.
The Retail - Restaurants industry is part of the Retail-Wholesale sector. With its current Zacks Industry Rank of 164, this industry ranks in the bottom 34% of all industries, numbering over 250.
The Zacks Industry Rank gauges the strength of our individual industry groups by measuring the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Make sure to utilize Zacks.com to follow all of these stock-moving metrics, and more, in the coming trading sessions.
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Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG) Sees a More Significant Dip Than Broader Market: Some Facts to Know

How much a stock's price changes over time is a significant driver for most investors. Not only can price performance impact your portfolio, but it can help you compare investment results across sectors and industries as well.
FOMO, or the fear of missing out, also plays a role in investing, particularly with tech giants and popular consumer-facing stocks.
What if you'd invested in Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG) ten years ago? It may not have been easy to hold on to CMG for all that time, but if you did, how much would your investment be worth today?
Chipotle Mexican Grill's Business In-Depth
With that in mind, let's take a look at Chipotle Mexican Grill's main business drivers.
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates quick-casual Mexican restaurants. The company was founded in 1993 by Steve Ells, who opened a single restaurant in Denver, CO. Its focused menu includes burritos, tacos, burrito bowls and salads. Restaurants serve responsibly sourced ingredients prepared using traditional cooking methods.
The company is committed to high-quality real ingredients, classic cooking techniques and distinctive design. As of June 30, 2026, Chipotle had more than 4,200 restaurants across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and the Middle East. Owns and operates its restaurants in the United States, Canada and Europe, while using partner-operated formats in selected international markets.
Chipotle’s growth is supported by its digital platform. The company has expanded digital kitchen capabilities, third-party delivery relationships and Chipotlanes, which provide drive-through pickup for digital orders. Digital sales include orders placed through the Chipotle website, mobile app and third-party delivery aggregators, as well as revenue deferrals associated with Chipotle Rewards. Digital sales represented 38.3% of food and beverage revenues in the second quarter of 2026, compared with 35.5% in the prior-year period. The company supports digital ordering through customization, contactless delivery and group-ordering features.
Chipotle uses national television, digital marketing, social media, fundraising, events and sponsorships to reach consumers. Third-party service providers handle most delivery orders.
Chipotle Rewards allows customers to earn points and redeem offers for free food. The program was relaunched in April 2026 with more personalized offers, simpler onboarding, proactive reengagement for lapsed users and broader redemption options. The company also introduced in-restaurant enrollment tools, including menu panels and QR codes, to increase participation beyond digital orders.
CMG continues to develop company-owned restaurants in North America and Europe while using local partners to enter selected new markets. During the second quarter of 2026, it opened 100 company-owned restaurants, including 80 with a Chipotlane, and one international partner-operated restaurant.
Bottom Line
Anyone can invest, but building a successful investment portfolio requires research, patience, and a little bit of risk. So, if you had invested in Chipotle Mexican Grill, ten years ago, you're likely feeling pretty good about your investment today.
According to our calculations, a $1000 investment made in September 2016 would be worth $4,524.86, or a gain of 352.49%, as of September 7, 2026, and this return excludes dividends but includes price increases.
In comparison, the S&P 500's gained 254.07% and the price of gold went up 217.12% over the same time frame.
Going forward, analysts are expecting more upside for CMG.
Shares of Chipotle have outperformed the industry in the past three months. The company is benefiting from continued traction in its Recipe for Growth strategy, supported by menu innovation, throughput gains from the high-efficiency equipment package (HEEP) rollout and stronger Rewards engagement. HEEP was installed in more than 1,000 restaurants by the second quarter of 2026, with approximately 2,000 locations expected by year-end. Also, a focus on digital tools, Chipotlane-led unit growth and international expansion bodes well. CMG expects 350-370 openings in 2026 and raised its comparable-sales outlook to the low-single-digit range. Earnings estimates for 2026 have increased in the past 30 days, depicting analysts' optimism over the stock's growth potential. However, the uncertain macro environment and high costs pose concerns.
The stock has jumped 12.72% over the past four weeks. Additionally, no earnings estimate has gone lower in the past two months, compared to 11 higher, for fiscal 2026; the consensus estimate has moved up as well.
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If You Invested $1000 in Chipotle Mexican Grill a Decade Ago, This is How Much It'd Be Worth Now

It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Dutch Bros (BROS). Shares have lost about 13.3% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.
Will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Dutch Bros due for a breakout? Well, first let's take a quick look at its most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Dutch Bros Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.
Dutch Bros Q2 Earnings Beat Estimates
Dutch Bros reported second-quarter 2026 results, with earnings and revenues beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Both metrics increased on a year-over-year basis.
The quarter benefited from new shop growth, sustained comparable-shop momentum and transaction-driving initiatives. Systemwide same-shop sales rose 5.8% year over year, supported by a 1.7% increase in transactions.
BROS’ Q2 Earnings & Revenue Discussion
In the second quarter of 2026, Dutch Bros reported adjusted earnings per share of 33 cents, topping the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 29 cents by 13.8%. The figure increased 26.9% from 26 cents in the prior-year quarter.
Quarterly revenues of $550.9 million surpassed the consensus mark of $524 million by 5.1%. The top line increased 32.5% year over year from $415.81 million, reflecting contributions from new shops and higher comparable sales.
Dutch Bros’ Revenue Growth Broadens Across the Model
Company-operated shop revenues climbed 34% year over year to $510 million from $380.5 million. The increase reflected contributions from new locations and continued growth across comparable company-operated shops.
Franchising and other revenues advanced to $40.8 million from $35.3 million in the prior-year quarter. Dutch Bros opened 48 system shops during the period, comprising 44 company-operated shops and four franchised locations, and ended the quarter with 1,225 system shops.
BROS’ Q2 Comps Reflect Traffic and Ticket Gains
Company-operated same-shop sales increased 8.3% year over year. The result included 3.4% transaction growth and a 4.9% rise in ticket, showing that higher customer visits and spending supported the sales increase.
Systemwide same-shop sales advanced 5.8%, with ticket up 4.1%. Management cited the food rollout, maturation of newer shop vintages, brand marketing initiatives and customer segmentation within Dutch Rewards as key contributors to performance.
Dutch Bros’ Margins Reflect Cost Pressure and Leverage
Company-operated shop contribution increased 31.9% year over year to $155.97 million. The contribution margin was 30.6%, down from 31.1%, as higher coffee, food and occupancy costs offset part of the benefit from sales growth.
Beverage, food and packaging costs increased 80 basis points to 26.1% of company-operated shop revenues. Labor costs improved 120 basis points to 25.4% on sales leverage, while occupancy and other costs increased 50 basis points to 16.3%. Adjusted EBITDA rose 27.8% to $113.71 million.
BROS’ Q2 Balance Sheet and Liquidity
Dutch Bros ended the quarter with $268.6 million in cash and cash equivalents, compared with $269.4 million at the end of 2025. Total liquidity was approximately $699 million, including $430.6 million of available borrowing capacity under its revolving credit facility. At June 30, 2026, $50.0 million was outstanding under the facility, with remaining borrowing capacity net of $19.4 million in letters of credit.
Average capital expenditures per new shop were approximately $1.4 million. The company continued shifting toward build-to-suit leases and maintained its long-term target of deriving 60% of its shop portfolio from that development structure.
BROS’ Strategic Site Deal Supports Expansion
Dutch Bros agreed to acquire the real estate and related site assets of up to 65 Salad and Go locations across Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma and Texas. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, subject to approvals and customary conditions.
The company expects to convert the acquired drive-thru locations into Dutch Bros shops in 2027. Management believes the sites will deepen density in markets where the brand already has awareness and support continued footprint growth. BROS’ 2026 outlook excludes any impact from the transaction.
Dutch Bros Raises 2026 Outlook
Following the second-quarter performance and the Phoenix franchise acquisition, management raised its 2026 revenue outlook to $2.10-$2.13 billion from $2.05-$2.08 billion. Systemwide same-shop sales growth is now expected between 5% and 6%, compared with the prior 4%-6% range.
Adjusted EBITDA is projected between $385 million and $390 million, up from $370-$380 million. Capital expenditures are expected to be $350-$370 million, while Dutch Bros continues to forecast at least 185 system shop openings in 2026.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?
In the past month, investors have witnessed a downward trend in fresh estimates.
VGM Scores
At this time, Dutch Bros has a great Growth Score of A, a grade with the same score on the momentum front. However, the stock has a score of F on the value side, putting it in the bottom 20% quintile for this investment strategy.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of B. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
Estimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions indicates a downward shift. Interestingly, Dutch Bros has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.
Performance of an Industry Player
Dutch Bros belongs to the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry. Another stock from the same industry, Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG), has gained 11.5% over the past month. More than a month has passed since the company reported results for the quarter ended June 2026.
Chipotle reported revenues of $3.35 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +9.3%. EPS of $0.33 for the same period compares with $0.33 a year ago.
For the current quarter, Chipotle is expected to post earnings of $0.29 per share, indicating no change from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -0.3% over the last 30 days.
The overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions translate into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for Chipotle. Also, the stock has a VGM Score of D.
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This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

Why Is Dutch Bros (BROS) Down 13.3% Since Last Earnings Report?

McDonald’s Corporation MCD is trading at a valuation that appears relatively attractive compared with the broader restaurant industry. The company’s forward 12-month P/E multiple of 19.15X is below the industry average of 22.57X, suggesting that investors are taking a more cautious view of the fast-food giant despite its powerful brand, global scale and resilient franchise-driven business model.
P/E (F12M)
The discount follows a difficult period for the stock. MCD’s shares have declined 20.8% over the past six months, compared with a 10.2% drop for the restaurant industry. The stock has also lagged the S&P 500’s 12% gain, as investors have favored companies with stronger near-term growth prospects. McDonald’s has underperformed restaurant peers including Starbucks Corporation SBUX, Yum! Brands, Inc. YUM and Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. CMG.
The key question for investors is whether this weakness reflects longer-lasting fundamental concerns or creates an attractive entry point into a globally recognized restaurant leader.
U.S. Weakness Weighs on Performance
McDonald’s second-quarter results highlighted both its strengths and the areas requiring improvement. Global comparable sales increased 1.3%, while systemwide sales rose 4% in constant currency. Adjusted EPS came in at $3.38, up 5% year over year on a constant-currency basis.
However, the U.S. business remained a key weakness. Comparable sales increased just 0.8% in the quarter, as execution issues affected traffic and customer experience. Management attributed roughly two-thirds of the U.S. traffic shortfall compared with expectations to problems surrounding value execution. The weaker-than-expected impact of the FIFA marketing campaign compounded the underperformance.
The company also acknowledged that restaurant teams were burdened by too many simultaneous product launches, promotions and operational changes. Management plans to simplify restaurant operations and provide crews with greater support, while increasing targeted digital offers and reallocating marketing spending toward proven value programs such as Extra Value Meals.
Importantly, McDonald’s does not view these issues as a fundamental strategy problem. Management believes the primary opportunity is to improve execution, particularly around value, operations and marketing.
International Business Provides Stability
McDonald’s international operations continue to offer an important counterbalance to U.S. weakness. Comparable sales increased 1.5% in International Operated Markets, with Germany, Australia and the United Kingdom performing well. International Developmental Licensed Markets posted 1.9% comparable-sales growth, led by Japan, which delivered its 10th consecutive quarter of positive comparable guest-count growth.
Management expects comparable-sales growth in both international segments to accelerate sequentially in the third quarter, offering a potential source of momentum while the U.S. business works through its execution challenges.
Beverages and McDonald’s NEXT Could Support Growth
One of the more encouraging developments is McDonald’s new beverage platform. Early results in the United States, Canada and Germany exceeded expectations, with beverages generating new occasions, higher guest checks and strong food attachment. More than half of beverage-related traffic is occurring after lunch, while average checks are about 50% above the full-day average.
Longer term, management is positioning McDonald’s NEXT as a growth framework focused on improving food taste and quality, enhancing hospitality, simplifying restaurant operations and strengthening customer engagement. The company expects productivity gains to help fund investments associated with the strategy.
MCD is also maintaining the restaurant expansion plans, although it has pushed the 50,000-restaurant target to 2028 from 2027 because of inflationary development costs and a more pressured consumer environment. McDonald’s still expects to open roughly 2,600 gross restaurants in 2026.
McDonald’s Growth Outlook Remains Encouraging
Analysts continue to see room for earnings growth at McDonald’s, although estimates have been mixed recently. Over the past 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings increased 2 cents to $12.87 per share, while the 2027 estimate declined 13 cents to $13.89. Despite the revisions, the estimates imply solid year-over-year EPS growth of 5.5% in 2026 and 7.9% in 2027.
Revenue expectations also point to continued expansion. The Zacks Consensus Estimate projects revenues of $28.15 billion in 2026 and $29.51 billion in 2027, representing year-over-year growth of 4.7% and 4.8%, respectively. These projections indicate that McDonald’s remains positioned for steady top-line and earnings growth, supported by its global scale, restaurant expansion and ongoing initiatives to strengthen customer traffic and engagement.
Why Investors Should Hold MCD
McDonald’s has strong long-term potential, backed by its powerful brand, global presence and franchise model. Its beverage platform and McDonald’s NEXT strategy could support growth.
However, the U.S. business still faces execution issues in value, operations and marketing. Management is taking steps to address these challenges, but the recovery may take time. Existing investors should hold MCD and wait for clearer signs of improvement. New investors may want to wait before buying, as stronger U.S. traffic and execution would provide greater confidence in the recovery.
MCD currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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McDonald's Trades at 19.15X P/E: Is This a Discounted Opportunity?

Investors looking for stocks in the Retail - Restaurants sector might want to consider either Yum China Holdings (YUMC) or Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG). But which of these two stocks offers value investors a better bang for their buck right now? We'll need to take a closer look.
There are plenty of strategies for discovering value stocks, but we have found that pairing a strong Zacks Rank with an impressive grade in the Value category of our Style Scores system produces the best returns. The Zacks Rank is a proven strategy that targets companies with positive earnings estimate revision trends, while our Style Scores work to grade companies based on specific traits.
Currently, Yum China Holdings has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy), while Chipotle Mexican Grill has a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold). The Zacks Rank favors stocks that have recently seen positive revisions to their earnings estimates, so investors should rest assured that YUMC has an improving earnings outlook. But this is only part of the picture for value investors.
Value investors analyze a variety of traditional, tried-and-true metrics to help find companies that they believe are undervalued at their current share price levels.
Our Value category grades stocks based on a number of key metrics, including the tried-and-true P/E ratio, the P/S ratio, earnings yield, and cash flow per share, as well as a variety of other fundamentals that value investors frequently use.
YUMC currently has a forward P/E ratio of 15.16, while CMG has a forward P/E of 33.63. We also note that YUMC has a PEG ratio of 1.18. This figure is similar to the commonly-used P/E ratio, with the PEG ratio also factoring in a company's expected earnings growth rate. CMG currently has a PEG ratio of 2.36.
Another notable valuation metric for YUMC is its P/B ratio of 2.58. The P/B is a method of comparing a stock's market value to its book value, which is defined as total assets minus total liabilities. By comparison, CMG has a P/B of 22.16.
These are just a few of the metrics contributing to YUMC's Value grade of A and CMG's Value grade of F.
YUMC is currently sporting an improving earnings outlook, which makes it stick out in our Zacks Rank model. And, based on the above valuation metrics, we feel that YUMC is likely the superior value option right now.
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YUMC or CMG: Which Is the Better Value Stock Right Now?

CAVA Group, Inc. CAVA is seeing strong performance from its newer restaurant vintages as it expands its national footprint. The company’s 2024 restaurant cohort is generating double-digit same-store sales and represents the highest-performing vintage in its portfolio. Based on the performance of that cohort, CAVA expects the 2026 classes to follow a similar maturation pattern.
The strength of newer vintages is important as CAVA increases its restaurant base. The company ended the second quarter of 2026 with 476 restaurants after opening 17 net new locations. New restaurant productivity remained above 100%, while recent openings continued to exceed expectations on both sales and margin performance. Systemwide average unit volumes reached $3.1 million.
New-unit strength has also been broad-based. CAVA reported solid performance across geographies and restaurant formats, including established and emerging markets. The company attributed part of this performance to rising brand awareness and investments aimed at supporting the guest experience and restaurant execution.
The maturation profile of newer restaurants provides additional support to CAVA’s expansion strategy. The company indicated that newer restaurants typically start at high sales levels, moderate during their first year after opening and subsequently rebound toward historical performance.
The 2024 cohort’s double-digit same-store sales performance provides evidence of continued growth as these restaurants mature. CAVA is also incorporating recent performance data into its site-selection models and cash-on-cash return analysis for future openings.
The 2024 cohort therefore provides an important benchmark for CAVA’s future development. Double-digit comps from this vintage, combined with above-100% new restaurant productivity and broad-based market strength, support the company’s current expansion trajectory. CAVA expects to open 75-77 net new restaurants in 2026.
Key Competitors Take Different Paths to Unit Growth
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. CMG is supporting a sizable development pipeline with established new-unit economics. CMG opened 101 restaurants in the second quarter of 2026, including 80 Chipotlanes, and continues to expect approximately 350 openings for the full year. New restaurant productivity has remained near 80%, while second-year cash-on-cash returns are approximately 60%. Despite the higher development pace, the impact of new openings on comparable restaurant sales has remained near 100 basis points, consistent with historical levels. These trends likely support Chipotle’s long-term potential to operate at least 7,000 restaurants across North America.
Sweetgreen, Inc. SG is taking a more measured approach to restaurant expansion. The company opened four restaurants and closed two in the second quarter, ending the period with 287 locations. Sweetgreen is refining its prototype design, construction costs, market selection and new-unit economics while focusing on rebuilding average unit volumes, restaurant-level cash flow and profitability. SG expects to maintain a conservative development pace in 2027, similar to or slower than 2026, with an emphasis on locations that meet its return thresholds before accelerating growth.
CAVA’s Price Performance, Valuation & Estimates
Shares of CAVA have lost 7.4% in the past year compared with the industry’s decline of 8.1%.
CAVA’s Stock’s One-Year Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, CAVA stock trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 4.21, above the industry’s average of 3.27.
CAVA’s P/S Ratio (Forward 12-Month) vs. Industry
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CAVA’s 2027 earnings per share (EPS) implies a year-over-year uptick of 34%. The EPS estimates for 2027 have increased in the past 30 days.
EPS Trend of CAVA Stock
CAVA stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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Can CAVA's 2024 Cohort Support Its Next Phase of Unit Growth?

Key Points
Dividends made up the majority of McDonald's returns during that time.
A unique franchising model keeps growth steady.
McDonald's (NYSE: MCD) has delivered strong performance over the last 25 years. Its approach to franchising has quietly given it market-beating returns over that time.
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Admittedly, its approach to franchising may make it seem less like a restaurant business on the surface. However, even if investors do not understand the model, they probably should not complain about the results. After investing $1,000 in the consumer discretionary stock 25 years ago, one would have $16,670 today.
Interestingly, around $10,000 of that return came from dividends, while the stock by itself slightly underperformed the S&P 500 during that period. McDonald's initiated its dividend in 1976 and has raised it every year since.
Moreover, it accomplished these gains with its unique approach to business. The majority of McDonald's restaurants are franchises, making it more asset-light than a restaurant like Chipotle, which owns and operates all of its restaurants.
Of course, franchising is hardly unusual in the restaurant business, but McDonald's has stood out for a heavy emphasis on brand consistency. Also, its revenue stream relies heavily on franchisee fees, including a 4%-5% fee on sales and a minimum 4% fee for advertising and promotions.
Still, it may surprise investors that much of its success may come from real estate investing rather than from serving food. It owns the building for every McDonald's. Thus, the rent is still paid even if the fast-food business is slow. As a result, McDonald's benefits from fairly steady revenue regardless of the state of the economy.
With that approach, the company has expanded to more than 45,000 restaurants across more than 100 countries, and such a size may spark concerns over global saturation. Nonetheless, rising rents and an increasing population can still help it expand, meaning investors should expect its business model to continue driving stock price and dividend gains for years to come.
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If You'd Invested $1,000 in McDonald's 25 Years Ago, Here's How Much You'd Have Today

It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG). Shares have lost about 3.4% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.
But investors have to be wondering, will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Chipotle due for a breakout? Well, first let's take a quick look at the most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.
Chipotle Q2 Earnings & Revenues Beat Estimates
Chipotle reported second-quarter 2026 results, with earnings and revenues beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate. The top line increased year over year, while adjusted earnings remained unchanged from the prior-year quarter.
The company benefited from new restaurant openings, positive comparable restaurant sales and transaction growth. Marketing initiatives, menu innovation, Chipotle Rewards engagement and hospitality investments also supported performance. However, inflation, higher ingredient usage and increased operating expenses pressured margins.
CMG’s Q2 Earnings & Revenue Discussion
For the quarter under review, CMG reported adjusted earnings per share of 33 cents, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 32 cents by 3.13%. The bottom line remained unchanged from the year-ago quarter.
Quarterly revenues of $3.35 billion surpassed the consensus mark of $3.32 billion by 0.81%. The top line increased 9.3% year over year, driven primarily by new restaurant openings and comparable restaurant sales growth.
Comparable restaurant sales increased 2.2% against a 4% decline reported in the prior-year quarter. The improvement reflected a 1% increase in transactions and a 1.2% rise in average check.
During the second quarter, digital sales contributed 38.3% to total food and beverage revenues, up from 35.5% in the year-ago period. The Rewards relaunch, Summer of Extras campaign and new in-restaurant enrollment tools supported digital engagement.
CMG’s Q2 Costs, Operating Highlights & Net Income
Food, beverage and packaging costs, as a percentage of revenues, were 29.7%, up from 28.9% in the year-ago quarter. The increase reflected inflation in beef and freight, along with higher protein and produce usage. Menu price increases and lower avocado and dairy costs partly offset these pressures.
Labor costs as a percentage of revenues came in at 25% compared with 24.7% reported in the prior-year quarter. The rise was attributable to wage inflation, performance-based bonuses and additional restaurant labor supporting operational and hospitality initiatives. Other operating costs represented 14.9% of revenues compared with 14% a year ago. Higher marketing, insurance, maintenance and utility expenses contributed to the increase.
In the second quarter, restaurant-level operating margin came in at 25.2% compared with 27.4% reported in the prior-year quarter. We predicted the metric to be 25%. Operating margin in the quarter declined 250 basis points year over year to 15.7%. We predicted the metric to be 15.9%.
Adjusted net income totaled $418.9 million compared with $450.4 million in the prior-year quarter. Our estimate for the metric was $418.8 million.
Balance Sheet of Chipotle
As of June 30, 2026, Chipotle had cash and cash equivalents of $228.2 million compared with $350.5 million as of Dec. 31, 2025.
During the quarter, CMG repurchased $630.7 million of stock at an average price of $32.55 per share. The company had $1.7 billion remaining under its share repurchase authorizations at quarter-end. For the first six months of 2026, net cash provided by operating activities was $1.33 billion compared with $1.12 billion in the year-ago period.
Chipotle’s Restaurant Openings
Strength in new restaurant openings aided the company’s performance in the second quarter. Chipotle opened 100 company-owned restaurants, of which 80 featured a Chipotlane. It also opened one international partner-operated restaurant.
As of June 30, 2026, the company operated 4,186 company-owned restaurants and 15 partner-operated locations. Average restaurant sales were $3.102 million compared with $3.142 million in the prior-year quarter.
Chipotlanes continued to support guest convenience, new restaurant sales, margins and returns. Management remains confident in the company’s ability to operate at least 7,000 restaurants across North America.
CMG’s 2026 Outlook
For 2026, management now expects comparable restaurant sales growth in the low-single-digit range.
The company continues to anticipate 350-370 new restaurant openings, including 10-15 international partner-operated restaurants. Around 80% of new company-owned restaurants are expected to feature a Chipotlane.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?
Since the earnings release, investors have witnessed a upward trend in fresh estimates.
VGM Scores
At this time, Chipotle has a strong Growth Score of A, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with a D. Following the exact same course, the stock has a grade of D on the value side, putting it in the bottom 40% for value investors.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of C. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
Estimates have been broadly trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions looks promising. Notably, Chipotle has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.
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Why Is Chipotle (CMG) Down 3.4% Since Last Earnings Report?

Key Points
The CFO disposed of 9,276 shares at $35.29 per share for a total transaction value of ~$327,000.
The non-discretionary transaction involved shares representing 10% of the equity holdings prior to the filing.
The disposal was executed entirely through a direct holding to satisfy tax liabilities associated with the vesting of restricted stock units.
The remaining direct stake of 83,882 shares represents a market value of $3.19 million as of the transaction date.
Adam T. Rymer, Chief Financial Officer of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG), disposed of 9,276 shares on Aug. 22, 2026, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summary
Transaction value
$327,000
Shares sold
9,276
Post-transaction shares (directly held)
83,882
Post-transaction value
$3.2 million
Transaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($35.29).
Key questions
Does this transaction reflect a change in the CFO's outlook on the company?
The disposal was non-discretionary and executed solely to cover tax obligations arising from the vesting and settlement of restricted stock units. Such activity is a routine part of equity compensation management and does not reflect the insider's view on the stock or future performance.
What is the scale of the remaining equity position?
Adam T. Rymer continues to hold 83,882 shares directly, representing an insider ownership stake of 0.0065%. This remaining position maintains the executive's alignment with shareholder interests following the automated tax-related sale.
How does the transaction price compare to recent market levels?
The shares were withheld at $35.29 per share on Aug. 22, 2026. This compares to a subsequent closing price of $38.02 as of the Aug. 24, 2026 market close, representing a difference of 7.74% between the execution price and the most recent market valuation.
What are the fundamental drivers for the company in the current period?
Chipotle Mexican Grill operates approximately 3,000 restaurants globally and reported trailing twelve-month revenue of $12.4 billion. The company generated $1.4 billion in net income over the same period, supported by a workforce of 130,301 employees.
Company Overview
Share Price (as of market close 2026-08-24)
$38.02
Market Capitalization
$48.8 billion
Revenue (TTM)
$12.4 billion
Net Income (TTM)
$1.4 billion
Company Snapshot
Chipotle Mexican Grill operates a chain of fast-casual restaurants specializing in customizable Mexican-inspired cuisine, generating revenue primarily through direct restaurant sales of burritos, bowls, tacos, and other prepared food items.
The company operates both company-operated and franchised restaurants, generating revenue through food and beverage sales at individual locations while maintaining operational control and brand consistency across its portfolio.
The company serves health-conscious consumers and value-oriented diners seeking customizable, fast-casual dining experiences, with its target market spanning middle- to upper-income demographics across North America and select European markets.
Chipotle Mexican Grill operates approximately 4,000 restaurant locations across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and other European markets, positioning itself as a leading fast-casual dining concept with significant scale. The company differentiates itself by emphasizing high-quality, customizable ingredients and operational efficiency, enabling it to capture market share in the competitive quick-service restaurant sector. With $12.4 billion in TTM revenue and a market capitalization of $48.8 billion, Chipotle demonstrates substantial financial strength and investor confidence in its growth trajectory and operational execution.
What this transaction means for investors
This sale from CFO Rymer shouldn't be something for investors to fret over, as it was merely done for tax purposes related to a preplanned transaction. Rymer still holds plenty of shares, so it isn't as though they are aligned with CMG stock's success over the long haul. Furthermore, since the transactions are scheduled and this sale is tax-related, this doesn't suggest they see Chipotle's stock as either discounted or overvalued.
As for Chipotle itself, I believe the stock remains a fairly interesting buy-the-dip opportunity, trading 45% below its all-time high. Following this pullback, CMG stock trades at 21 times cash from operations, well below its 10-year average of 35. What this P/CFO of 21 shows is that if Chipotle weren't spending heavily to grow its store count, it would be a reasonably valued compounder. Planning to grow its store count by 9% this year, Chipotle plans to steadily add to its current store count of over 4,100 locations.
Opening its first store in Mexico, and with a handful of new locations in foreign markets, it might not be unrealistic to consider that Chipotle could still double its store count, or more, over the long haul. Best yet, the company is buying back shares hand over fist while the stock's price is discounted. I'll be looking to buy more shares of the company for my daughter, as it is one of her favorite restaurants, an easy investment to learn from, and a reasonably priced stock right now.
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Josh Kohn-Lindquist has positions in Chipotle Mexican Grill. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Chipotle Mexican Grill. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: short September 2026 $35 calls on Chipotle Mexican Grill. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.