McDonald’s Q1 Earnings Preview: Can the $3 Menu and Big Arch Viral Buzz Defy the Consumer Slump?

McDonald’s (MCD) reports Q1 2026 earnings this morning as investors weigh aggressive new value menus and viral product launches against the headwinds of record gas prices and geopolitical tension. With shares down 7% year-to-date, Wall Street is searching for proof that the Golden Arches can still command the Golden consumer in a tightening economy.