The earnings report for McDonald’s Q1 2025 will be released on Thursday according to LSEG which predicts $2.66 per share and $6.09 billion in revenue. The fast-food giant functions as a consumer bellwether which faces its second consecutive quarter of U.S. same-store sales declines because of an October E. coli outbreak and cautious consumer spending because of President Trump’s tariff-fueled trade conflicts that create recession concerns.
The CFO Ian Borden identified Q1 as the period when same-store sales reached their lowest point because of a poor U.S. market performance. The ongoing tariffs have weakened customer attitudes which may reduce market demand. McDonald’s fights declining customer numbers by offering value meals and bringing back popular items such as snack wraps to attract diners. The company implements this strategy to restore customer traffic in a market where other businesses also struggle with economic challenges.
The stock performance of McDonald’s has increased by 15% throughout 2025 which has elevated its market value to approximately $26 billion because investors believe in its worldwide brand strength. The company faces ongoing trade tensions together with domestic health-related setbacks and ongoing trade tensions which create potential risks. The earnings report will demonstrate McDonald’s ability to handle market pressures through its focus on affordable prices and innovative menu offerings which will help the company maintain growth during market turbulence.
10) Ford CEO Welcomes Trump’s Tariff Relief, Urges Broader Support
Ford CEO Jim Farley commended President Trump’s executive order which provided partial tariff relief to automakers through reimbursement of U.S. parts expenses and reduced “stacked” tariffs. The 2025 Ford Expedition launch in Kentucky served as the platform for Farley to emphasize that the U.S. auto industry requires complete policy solutions to thrive.
The order responds to industry demands because Trump imposed 25% vehicle tariffs and plans to impose 25% parts tariffs starting May 3. The U.S. assembled vehicles receive two-year partial reimbursement benefits which help reduce their costs. Farley requested policies that would reward both domestic production and export activities because Ford operates as a net exporter of vehicles and parts. The executive asked whether American workers should receive recognition for their employment in domestic manufacturing facilities.
Farley suggested that matching U.S. manufacturing levels with competitors would result in 4 million vehicles and 15 plants and 500,000 jobs each year. Ford maintains its position as the leading U.S. vehicle manufacturer despite importing parts from Mexico Canada and China. The tariff relief provides some benefits but Farley emphasized the need for continuous administration collaboration to maintain affordable supply chains and competitive vehicles that support his goal of building a successful domestic auto industry.