There are three ways to bite into a ‘Big Mac’ - shares, shorting, or a franchise

By the end of this year, McDonald’s should be able to boast half a century of uninterrupted dividend growth

Global diversification means McDonald’s can shrug off an adverse local economy. it was able to invest €75 million in its Irish operation during the recession, opening 25 new stores, with its latest being Musgrave Park in CorkDominick Walsh

McDonald’s is an iconic brand. For more than half a century the company has delivered stellar long-term returns for shareholders. In the 16 years since January 2000, a $10,000 investment with dividends reinvested would have accumulated to $44,367 by now.

By the end of this year, McDonald’s should be able to boast half a century of uninterrupted dividend growth. And as the business has matured, it has conducted very large share buyback programmes ...