McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE: MCD) is a leading global fast-food chain, known for its iconic burgers, fries, and quick-service model. With over 38,000 locations worldwide, it serves millions daily, driving its status as a fast-food industry giant.
Key Takeaways:
- Steady stock growth projected, averaging 12-13% annually through 2050.
- Global expansion in high-growth markets drives future revenue increases.
- Digital innovation and AI enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
- Menu evolution attracts new customers with healthier and premium options.
Overview of McDonald’s Corporation
McDonald’s was founded in 1940 by Richard and Maurice McDonald in San Bernardino, California. The company began franchising in 1953. Over the decades, McDonald’s expanded rapidly across the U.S. and then internationally to become the world’s largest restaurant chain by revenue. Today, McDonald’s operates and franchises over 38,000 locations in more than 100 countries.
The company’s business model focuses on delivering value, convenience and consistency to customers through its iconic core menu items like the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, and World Famous Fries. McDonald’s also continually innovates its menu with new product launches and local offerings tailored to different markets. In recent years, McDonald’s has made significant investments in digital capabilities like mobile ordering, delivery, automated ordering kiosks, and loyalty programs to enhance the customer experience and boost sales.
McDonald’s Company Profile
| Country | United States |
| Ticker Symbol | MCD |
| Exchange | NYSE |
| Founded | 1940 |
| IPO Date | 1965 |
| Industry | Restaurants |
| Sector | Consumer Cyclical |
| Employees | 100,000 |
| CEO | Mr. Christopher J. Kempczinski |
| Market Cap (August 30, 2024) | $207.07 billion |
| Website | McDonald |
McDonald’s (MCD) Balance Sheet Analysis
McDonald’s Corporation’s total assets grew to $56.15 billion in 2023, while total liabilities increased to $60.85 billion. The equity deficit improved to $4.71 billion, and common stock equity also improved to a negative $4.71 billion.
Total debt rose to $53.09 billion, and net debt increased to $34.77 billion. Capital lease obligations increased to $13.75 billion, indicating higher leasing commitments.
Working capital declined to $1.13 billion, suggesting a potential reduction in liquidity. However, the equity deficit reduction and asset growth were positive signs.
Overall, McDonald’s Corporation’s 2023 balance sheet showed an increase in both assets and liabilities, with a lower equity deficit but higher debt levels and reduced working capital.
Balance Sheet Data Source: finance.yahoo
McDonald’s Stock Price History
McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE: MCD) had its IPO in the year 1965. McDonald’s (MCD) stock has undergone 9 splits between 1971 and 1999. Splits occurred in 1971, 1972, 1982, 1984, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1994, and 1999. The most recent was a 2-for-1 split in 1999. One share bought before the first split in 1971 would equal 121.5 shares today.1
As of August 30, 2024, McDonald’s stock stands at $288.66.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2024
We expect McDonald’s stock price to reach a high of $308.00, low of $267.75, and average price of $287.88 in 2024. This represents 4.7% growth over the current price of $275.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $215.75 | $287.88 | $308.00 |
Key drivers for 2024 include continued recovery of McDonald’s sales and margins from the COVID-19 pandemic impact, international expansion especially in high-growth markets, and benefits from the company’s Accelerating the Arches initiative focused on innovation across digital, delivery and drive thru.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2025
For 2025, our forecast shows McDonald’s stock climbing to a high of $344.96, low of $300.30, and average price of $322.63. This would be 12.2% appreciation from the 2024 average price.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $300.30 | $322.63 | $344.96 |
Momentum in 2025 will be fueled by continued global same-store sales growth and operating margin expansion. New product innovation and personalized digital experiences will attract more customers. Dividend growth and share buybacks could provide additional upside for shareholders.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, we project McDonald’s stock reaching a high price of $386.35, low of $336.34, and average of $361.35. The average price would be up 12.0% from 2025.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $336.34 | $361.35 | $386.35 |
In 2026, key catalysts will include accelerated new restaurant development to expand McDonald’s global footprint, growing adoption of the company’s mobile app and loyalty program, and increased usage of data and artificial intelligence to optimize operations. Economic growth in international markets will also boost sales.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2027
For 2027, our model shows McDonald’s stock climbing to a high of $432.71, low of $376.69, and average price of $404.70, reflecting an increase of 12.0% from the 2026 average.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | $376.69 | $404.70 | $432.71 |
Drivers in 2027 will include potential acquisitions or investments to expand McDonald’s presence in key growth areas, increased restaurant automation to boost efficiency, and positive results from sustainability initiatives to reduce costs and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. A robust global economy will provide a tailwind.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2028
In 2028, we forecast McDonald’s stock hitting a high of $484.63, low of $422.21, and average of $453.26, up 12.0% from 2027.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2028 | $422.21 | $453.26 | $484.63 |
Continued menu innovation focused on healthier and plant-based options will expand McDonald’s customer appeal. Investments in cutting-edge restaurant formats and technologies will enhance efficiency and customer experience. International expansion, especially via franchising, will drive incremental sales growth. Shareholder-friendly actions will persist.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2029
For 2029, our analysis indicates McDonald’s stock price reaching a high of $542.78, low of $472.87, and average of $507.65, marking another 12.0% increase from 2028.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2029 | $472.87 | $507.65 | $542.78 |
Key 2029 growth drivers will include progress on McDonald’s net zero emissions objectives, tapping new avenues for growth such as further expansion of the McCafé coffee business, and potential strategic partnerships or licensing deals. Continued global economic growth will support sales gains and profitability.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2030
Looking to 2030, we anticipate McDonald’s stock reaching a high price of $607.92, low of $529.61, and average of $568.57. This represents an increase of 12.0% from the 2029 average price.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2030 | $529.61 | $568.57 | $607.92 |
In 2030, positive stock momentum will come from McDonald’s strong competitive advantages and market leadership, continued digital innovation to personalize the customer experience, and a focus on maximizing long-term franchisee relationships and profitability. More consumers will turn to McDonald’s for affordable dining options. As McDonald’s continues to innovate and expand, it’s worth comparing its performance with other players in the fast-food industry, such as Chipotle’s stock forecast.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2031
For 2031, we model McDonald’s stock hitting a high of $681.27, low of $593.79, and average price of $637.59, up 12.1% from 2030.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2031 | $593.79 | $637.59 | $681.27 |
Ongoing global expansion, especially through franchising, will support 2031 growth. Incorporating next-gen automation and AI will optimize speed and productivity. Expanded delivery options and loyalty perks will boost customer frequency. Economic conditions should remain conducive to sales growth.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2032
In 2032, our projections show McDonald’s stock climbing to a high of $764.22, low of $665.64, and average of $714.74, increasing 12.1% from 2031.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2032 | $665.64 | $714.74 | $764.22 |
Sustained global expansion, especially into underserved markets, will drive 2032 gains. Further development of plant-based and healthier menu items will attract new customers. Deploying advanced AI, robotics and IoT technologies will yield operational efficiencies. Franchisees will share in the company’s success.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2033
Looking ahead to 2033, we estimate McDonald’s stock appreciating to a high price of $858.33, low of $747.53, and average of $802.93, reflecting growth of 12.3% from 2032.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2033 | $747.53 | $802.93 | $858.33 |
2033 catalysts will include accretive acquisitions to boost McDonald’s growth, potential new revenue streams such as licensing and subscriptions, leaps in restaurant technology to enhance quality and convenience, and an entrenched market leadership position. Effective cost controls and solid consumer spending will support profitability.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2034
For 2034, our forecast models McDonald’s stock reaching a high of $965.36, low of $840.25, and average price of $902.81, equating to 12.4% growth over 2033.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2034 | $840.25 | $902.81 | $965.36 |
Drivers of the 2034 stock performance will include McDonald’s global scale advantages in areas like marketing and supply chain, acceleration of personalized customer engagement through data analytics, and consistently growing free cash flow and shareholder returns. Economic growth will stay strong.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2035
In 2035, we anticipate McDonald’s stock hitting a high of $1,087.23, low of $946.68, and average of $1,017.16, up 12.7% from 2034.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2035 | $946.68 | $1,017.16 | $1,087.23 |
Robust same-store sales gains, operating margin expansion through continued innovation and cost discipline, and a healthy global franchise system will fuel 2035 growth. Opportunistic acquisitions and partnerships will build capabilities. The brand’s consumer relevance will keep strengthening. While McDonald’s is expected to show strong growth, investors may also want to consider the Yum Brands stock prediction for a broader perspective on the fast-food sector.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2036
For 2036, our projections show McDonald’s stock climbing to a high of $1,226.34, low of $1,068.73, and average price of $1,147.78. This would mark an increase of 12.8% from the 2035 average.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2036 | $1,068.73 | $1,147.78 | $1,226.34 |
Menu innovation emphasizing quality, health and sustainability will enlarge McDonald’s customer base in 2036. Accelerated restaurant development in high-growth markets will capture more demand. Data-driven personalization will enhance the digital experience. Dividend growth will attract income investors.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2037
Looking out to 2037, we forecast McDonald’s stock price rising to a high of $1,385.75, low of $1,207.66, and average of $1,297.32. This represents 13.0% appreciation from 2036.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2037 | $1,207.66 | $1,297.32 | $1,385.75 |
Key 2037 growth catalysts will include breakthrough restaurant formats leveraging automation and robotics, a thriving global franchise network aligned with McDonald’s long-term strategy, and steady market share gains versus rivals. Agile responses to evolving consumer preferences will sustain the brand’s dominance.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2038
In 2038, our model shows McDonald’s stock reaching a high price of $1,568.93, low of $1,366.65, and average of $1,468.75, delivering a 13.2% increase from the prior year average.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2038 | $1,366.65 | $1,468.75 | $1,568.93 |
Ongoing global unit expansion, especially in developing and emerging markets, will elevate 2038 sales. Industry-shaping digital, data and AI innovations will extend McDonald’s competitive advantages. Effective loyalty and personalized marketing will boost customer engagement. Economic conditions will support dining out demand.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2039
For 2039, we estimate McDonald’s stock appreciating to a high of $1,779.93, low of $1,550.37, and average price of $1,666.43. This would be 13.4% growth over 2038.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2039 | $1,550.37 | $1,666.43 | $1,779.93 |
Product innovation delivering healthier, more sustainable and premium options will expand McDonald’s market in 2039. Leveraging scale and technology advantages will drive profitable growth. The company’s elite global franchise network will keep fueling expansion. Shareholder returns will stay robust.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2040
Projecting out to 2040, our analysis indicates McDonald’s stock climbing to a high of $2,023.72, low of $1,762.92, and average of $1,894.90, representing a gain of 13.7% from 2039.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2040 | $1,762.92 | $1,894.90 | $2,023.72 |
In 2040, positive drivers will include McDonald’s entrenched global market leadership and brand strength, continued menu and digital experience innovations attracting new generations of customers, and strategic expansion in high-potential segments such as coffee. The company’s sophisticated data analytics will enable highly targeted and personalized marketing. Adapting to evolving consumer trends and a dynamic global economic landscape will be key to McDonald’s ongoing success. As McDonald’s leverages its global market leadership and brand strength, it’s interesting to compare its trajectory with companies in other sectors, such as the Equinix stock price outlook in the data center and digital infrastructure space.
McDonald’s Stock Price Forecast 2050
Looking further out to 2050, our long-term forecast shows McDonald’s stock rising to a high price of $7,500.00, low of $6,000.00, and average of $6,750.00. This would mark 256% appreciation from the 2040 average price, implying an annualized return of around 13.5% during the 2040s decade.
| Year | Low Price | Average Price | High Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2050 | $6,000.00 | $6,750.00 | $7,500.00 |
Over the long run, McDonald’s will cement its position as the undisputed global leader in its industry, with an unrivaled brand, scale, and market presence. The company will keep pushing the boundaries of menu innovation, restaurant design and technology, personalized customer engagement, and social and environmental responsibility. Decades of consistent growth and profitability will support McDonald’s stock price appreciation, making it an attractive long-term holding for investors.
Conclusion
Our comprehensive analysis of McDonald’s stock price forecast from 2024 to 2050 paints a highly optimistic outlook for long-term investors in the company. With powerful global brand strength, scale advantages, continuous menu and technology-driven innovations, and a a proven track record of profitable growth, McDonald’s is well-positioned to deliver substantial share price appreciation in the coming decades.
By 2050, we project McDonald’s stock hitting an average price of $6,750. This impressive rise will be fueled by the company’s relentless focus on enhancing the customer experience through digital engagement, driving profitable global expansion, and building a highly efficient franchisee network aligned with long-term strategic goals.
FAQs
1. What is the future of MCD share price?
According to the forecast, McDonald’s stock price is expected to show consistent growth over the coming years. Starting from an average price of $287.88 in 2024, the projection indicates steady year-over-year increases, reaching an average price of $1,894.90 by 2040. The long-term forecast extends to 2050, with an estimated average price of $6,750.00, suggesting significant appreciation over time.
2. Is MCD a good long-term stock?
Based on the provided forecast, MCD appears to be positioned as a potentially strong long-term stock. The projections show consistent growth over multiple decades, with an average annual return of around 13.5% during the 2040s. This steady appreciation, combined with McDonald’s global brand strength, ongoing innovation, and ability to adapt to changing consumer trends, suggests it could be an attractive long-term investment option.
3. What is the MCD 10 year outlook?
The 10-year outlook for MCD (from 2024 to 2034) is positive according to the forecast. Key points include:
- Projected growth from an average price of $287.88 in 2024 to $902.81 in 2034.
- Consistent year-over-year increases ranging from 12.0% to 12.4% annually.
- Drivers of growth include global expansion, digital innovation, menu development, and operational efficiencies.
- Continued focus on franchising, especially in high-growth markets.
- Emphasis on sustainability and technology integration to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
4. Is MCD a buy, hold, or sell?
MCD appears to be a strong buy or hold recommendation. The document projects consistent long-term growth, with the stock price expected to appreciate by 12-13% annually through 2040 and beyond. McDonald’s strategic focus on global expansion, digital innovation, menu evolution, and sustainability initiatives positions it well for future success. The company’s strong brand, market leadership, and ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences further support its growth potential.
5. Who are the major competitors of MCD?
The major competitors of McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE: MCD) include:
- Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. – Although now part of Inspire Brands, it competes in the coffee and breakfast segments, similar to McDonald’s.
- Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM) – Parent company of KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell, competing in the global fast-food market.
- Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE: QSR) – Owns Burger King, Tim Hortons, and Popeyes, challenging McDonald’s in the burger and quick-service segments.
- Wendy’s Company (NASDAQ: WEN) – Competes directly with McDonald’s in the burger segment with a focus on fresh ingredients.
- Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) – Competes in the fast-casual dining segment with a focus on Mexican-inspired cuisine.
- Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NYSE: DPZ) – Competes in the quick-service pizza segment, offering fast delivery and carryout options.
- Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ: SBUX) – Competes in the fast-food breakfast and coffee segments, challenging McDonald’s with its extensive beverage offerings.
- Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: DRI) – Operates various restaurant chains, including Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, competing in casual dining.
- Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ: JACK) – Competes in the burger and quick-service segments with a diverse menu.
- Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) – Competes in the quick-service pizza market with a focus on quality ingredients.
Disclaimer:
The stock price predictions provided herein are based on historical data, current market trends, and analysis. However, past performance does not guarantee future results. Stock markets are inherently volatile and subject to numerous economic, political, and market factors that can cause rapid and unpredictable fluctuations in stock prices. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. It is strongly recommended that you consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Invest responsibly and consider your individual financial situation, risk tolerance, and investment objectives before acting on any information provided.
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