Should You Buy McDonald's Stock Before Aug. 4?

McDonald's stock has declined over 12% year-to-date as the fast-food chain struggles with tepid growth, expecting a meaningful deceleration in Q2 2026. However, the company remains a reasonable buy for long-term income-focused investors due to its resilient franchise model, attractive valuation (forward P/E of ~21), and strong dividend that could make it a Dividend King by end of 2026 after 49 consecutive years of increases. The article suggests no urgency to buy before Aug. 4 earnings, as sales declines could push the stock lower in the near term.