McDonald's Beats Earnings, but US Sales Tell Another Story

This article first appeared on GuruFocus. McDonald's Corp. (MCD, Financials) posted adjusted third-quarter results that above Wall Street estimates, but lower U.S. restaurant sales hurt revenue growth.Non-GAAP earnings were $3.57 per share, $0.19 better than estimates from analysts.Revenue climbed 1.1% from a year ago to $7.16 billion, while it below average projections by $120 million.Global comparable sales were up 1.5%, driven by overseas markets. International Operated Markets comparable sales climbed 1.4% and International Developmental Licensed Markets comparable sales increased 4.2%.But U.S. same-store sales were down 0.2%, a reminder that the company's domestic business continues to face pressure.