** McDonald's MCD.N CEO Chris Kempczinski said on Thursday higher gas prices linked to the Iran war were disproportionately hurting low‑income consumers, as the burger chain warned of a weak start to its second quarter

** Co posted better-than-expected Q1 revenue and profit, while global comparable sales rose 3.8%

** Thirty-eight analysts rate the stock "buy" on average; median PT $344 - data compiled by LSEG

LOVING IT… JUST NOT QUARTERLY

** BTIG ("Buy," PT: $370) says the downward revision, driven by tough comparisons to last year’s strong results, is not surprising; expects value offerings, a beverage launch, and promotions to offset pressure through the rest of the year

** Jefferies ("Buy," PT: $350) says U.S. same‑store sales in April were slightly negative, but should reaccelerate after a McValue menu refresh and a new beverage launch, with full‑year guidance unchanged

** TD Cowen ("Buy," PT: $300) says MCD increased focus on value improved customer perception but failed to drive lasting same‑store sales growth amid a softening industry backdrop, and warned that operator cash flows may weaken ahead of a potential remodel cycle starting later in the decade

** Morningstar (Fair Value: $300) says amid persistent global macroeconomic strains, MCD is meeting consumers where they are by bolstering its value proposition with more affordable price points and premium innovation, backed by its deep marketing coffers