McDonald's Is Between a Rock and a Hard Place. Here's Why the Sinking Fast Food Stock Could Still Go Lower

McDonald's stock has fallen over 23% in 2026 as the company faces a dilemma: rising beef costs may force price increases, but higher prices could further dampen already weak growth (0.8% same-store sales in the U.S.). While the stock trades at a modest valuation with an attractive 3.16% dividend yield and Dividend King status, near-term headwinds suggest further downside risk despite the company's long-term resilience.