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What: Shares of fast food chain Jack in the Box
So what: Thanks to a $28 million charge related to 40 restaurant closings and increasing input costs, Jack in the Box's profit sank 90% in the fourth quarter. The company also posted a 3.3% decline in same-store sales, reflecting the frustrating headwinds that quick-service restaurants still face.
Now what: While business at Jack in the Box's namesake locations continue to slump, same-store sales at its Qdoba Mexican Grill managed to grow an impressive 5.6%. Management expects similar results from Qdoba next quarter, providing investors with a much-needed bright spot. Qdoba should only become a larger part of the business over time, so the stock's 10-ish P/E -- representing a clear discount to rivals McDonald's
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