McDonald's
Overall, McDonald's comps increased 4.9% on a global basis. That included a reassuring 4.6% comps gain in the U.S., following weakness here earlier this year. The company credited the success of its McCafe Real Fruit Smoothies and Frappes, which help it compete with the likes of Starbucks
McDonald's Asia/Pacific, Middle East, and Africa segment didn't look too shabby, either, with a 7.8% comps increase. (Don't forget McDonald's interesting plans for the Indian market.)
If some investors are choking, it's because the fast-food giant's European segment showed relative weakness, with a mere 2.2% increase in comps. The French market is the sluggish culprit, offsetting stronger sales in the U.K. and Russia.
Regardless, McDonald's has been hitting on all cylinders for quite some time now, seemingly immune to any serious threat from fast-food competitors like Burger King
Don't bet against McDonald's; it's a solid stock for long-term portfolios. A little pessimism here and there on monthly numbers like these simply serves up a cheaper, tastier price for prospective investors.