McDonald’s and Moody’s released their latest earnings reports before opening bell this morning. McDonald’s posted $1.62 per share in earnings, excluding strategic charges, on $6.4 billion in revenue. Analysts had been expecting $1.48 per share in earnings on $6.3 billion in sales. In last year’s third quarter, the fast food chain posted $1.40 per share in earnings on $6.6 billion in revenue.
Moody’s reported non-GAAP earnings of $1.34 per share, marking a 21% year over year increase, on $917.1 million in revenue. Analysts had been expecting earnings of $1.18 per share and $894.05 million in revenue. In last year’s third quarter, the credit ratings firm reported $834.9 million in revenue.
McDonald’s same store sales rise
Including strategic charges, McDonald’s said its earnings amounted to $1.50 per share. Global same store sales grew 3.5% year over year, smashing the consensus of 1.8% growth in comparable sales. U.S. comparable sales grew 1.3% year over year, also beating the consensus for 1.2% growth. Management cited the McPick 2 platform as the driver of U.S. growth. Consolidated revenues declined 3% due to refranchising impacts.
“Looking ahead, we are focused on growing global comparable sales and serving more customers while being mindful of the near-term challenges in several markets,” McDonald’s President and CEO Steve Easterbrook said in a statement. “We remain committed to driving long-term, profitable results while pursuing our goal of being recognized by our customers as a modern, progressive burger company.”
Shares of McDonald’s surged in premarket trades, climbing by as much as 3.55% to $114.50. The company returned $3.4 billion to shareholders in share buybacks and dividends during the third quarter.
Moody’s records solid growth
Moody’s said its GAAP earnings grew 15% year over year to $1.31 per share. Moody’s Investors Service revenue grew 12% to $612.3 million, while Moody’s Analytics revenue increased 6% to $304.8 million.
Moody’s expects full-year non-GAAP earnings of $4.62 to $4.72 per share, which is strong compared to the consensus of $4.63 per share. The company projects GAAP earnings of between $4.76 and $4.86 per share.
Moody’s shares edged downward by as much as 0.55% to $107.50 in premarket trades.
