Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX) will release earnings for the first quarter before the opening bell on Wednesday, Jan. 28.Analysts expect the company to report fourth-quarter earnings of 59 cents per share. That’s down from 69 cents per share in the year-ago period. Analysts consensus estimate for quarterly revenue is $9.65 billion (Starbucks reported $9.4 billion last year), according to Benzinga Pro. Mizuho analyst Nick Setyan maintains a Neutral rating and raised his Starbucks price target to $95 fro ...

Core Insights - Chipotle Mexican Grill is reintroducing Chicken al Pastor to its menu across the U.S., Canada, the UK, France, and Germany starting February 10, 2026, as part of its accelerated menu innovation strategy for the year [1][2][8] Menu Innovation - The return of Chicken al Pastor marks the first limited-time offering (LTO) for Chipotle in 2026, with plans for three to four additional protein offerings, alongside new sides and dips throughout the year [1][8] - Chipotle's previous strategy of introducing two limited-time proteins per year has significantly increased transaction frequency among both new and existing customers [6] Customer Engagement - The reintroduction of Chicken al Pastor is a response to overwhelming customer demand, with social media requests for its return being more than double that of any other limited-time offering in the brand's history [4] - Chipotle Rewards members will have exclusive access to order Chicken al Pastor on February 9, 2026, one day before it becomes available to the general public [5][8] Product Details - Chicken al Pastor features a unique flavor profile, made with freshly grilled chicken, a marinade of seared morita peppers and ground achiote, complemented by pineapple, lime, and cilantro [3][7] - The Chicken al Pastor burrito is highlighted for its nutritional value, containing 54 grams of protein and 22 grams of fiber [7] Promotional Offers - To celebrate the return of Chicken al Pastor, Chipotle is offering a $0 delivery fee on orders that include this item from February 14 to February 28, 2026 [8][10]

Core Viewpoint - Starbucks Corp. is preparing to report its first-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings on January 28, with CEO Brian Niccol's "Back to Starbucks" strategy facing scrutiny due to rising operational costs that may lead to a stock correction [1] Earnings Expectations - Wall Street anticipates Starbucks to report earnings per share (EPS) of $0.58, a decrease from $0.69 in the same quarter last year, despite a projected revenue increase to $9.64 billion [2] - Jefferies analyst Andy Barish has reiterated an "Underperform" rating with a price target of $75, describing the stock's recent performance as an "unsupported rally" [2] Operational Challenges - The "Green Apron Service" standard, implemented in August 2025, aims to enhance customer service through increased staffing and better order sequencing, but its impact will be felt in the first quarter [3] - Jefferies highlights that the costs associated with labor reinvestment and the rollout of Assistant Store Managers will challenge margins in the first half of the year [4] Revenue Strategy - CFO Cathy Smith has indicated that the company plans to prioritize revenue growth over immediate earnings, acknowledging that investments will pressure near-term profits [5] - The company is counting on strong holiday sales, particularly from returning seasonal items like the Eggnog Latte, to meet revenue targets [5] Analyst Sentiment - Bank of America maintains a "Buy" rating with a raised price target of $114, citing long-term growth potential in China despite current economic challenges [6][8] - Mizuho advises a neutral stance, suggesting investors wait for clearer long-term financial targets expected at the upcoming Investor Day [10] Stock Performance - Starbucks shares have increased by 12.57% over the last month and 14.72% year-to-date in 2026, although they are down 3.69% over the past year [11]

Group 1: Meta Platforms Subscription Plans - Meta Platforms plans to introduce premium subscription models for its apps, including Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, aimed at enhancing user productivity and creativity through additional features and AI capabilities [4][5] - The new subscription offerings will be distinct from the existing Meta Verified product, which provides content creators and businesses with a verified badge and 24/7 support [5] - Meta intends to gather user feedback during the rollout of these subscription plans in the upcoming months [5] Group 2: Industry Developments - The announcement of Meta's subscription plans comes amid other significant industry news, including President Trump's decision to raise tariffs on South Korean goods from 15% to 25% [6] - Twin Hospitality Group and FAT Brands have filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, with both companies expecting their restaurants to continue operating during the bankruptcy process [7][8]

Core Viewpoint - FAT Brands has filed for voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy to restructure its debt and capital structure, aiming to enhance stakeholder value and support brand growth [1][2]. Group 1: Bankruptcy Filing Details - The filing follows FAT Brands' missed interest payments on its $1.2 billion debt, as reported by Bloomberg [2]. - Court documents indicate that FAT Brands has assets and liabilities both estimated between $1 billion and $10 billion [2]. - The company operates as a global franchising entity with a portfolio of 18 restaurant brands and over 2,200 locations worldwide [2]. Group 2: Operations During Bankruptcy - Key restaurant brands such as Fatburger, Johnny Rockets, and Round Table Pizza are expected to continue operations throughout the Chapter 11 process [3]. - Trading of FAT Brands' securities on NASDAQ is anticipated to continue with a "Q" suffix during the bankruptcy proceedings [3]. Group 3: Leadership and Strategic Intent - CEO Andy Wiederhorn stated that the Chapter 11 process will allow the company to strengthen its capital structure and maintain its competitive position [4]. - The company plans to engage with stakeholders to develop a value-maximizing plan while protecting their interests [4]. - Wiederhorn returned as CEO in September 2025 after previously resigning in May 2023 amid a federal investigation, which was later dismissed [5].

McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) is included among the 15 Best S&P 500 Dividend Stocks to Buy in 2026. KeyBanc Sees Strong U.S. Quarter for McDonald’s (MCD) Amid Choppy Industry Backdrop On January 9, KeyBanc analyst Eric Gonzalez raised McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) price target to $340 from $335 and maintained an Overweight rating on the stock. KeyBanc said Q4 2025 looked like a strong quarter for McDonald’s US. The firm believes the company executed well on its value strategy and used its marketi ...

FAT Brands, the owner of restaurant chains Fatburger, Johnny Rockets and Twin Peaks, has filed for bankruptcy, adding to a string of casual-dining brands that have sought court protection from creditors. Read more: https://t.co/TrsUehZfFF📷️: George Rose/Getty Images North America ...

Brian Niccol plowed millions of dollars into improving customers’ Starbucks experience in his first year as CEO with a focus on barista training, and he isn’t done yet. https://t.co/DgQ3AmqbT6 ...

FAT Brands, the owner of restaurant chains Fatburger, Johnny Rockets and Twin Peaks, sought bankruptcy after failing to make interest payments due in October on some of its $1.2 billion in debt. https://t.co/OvtO8dngFh ...

Core Viewpoint - Twin Hospitality Group Inc. has initiated voluntary chapter 11 proceedings to restructure its balance sheet and enhance stakeholder value while continuing operations of its restaurant brands [1][2][3] Company Overview - Twin Hospitality Group Inc. operates specialty casual dining concepts, including Twin Peaks and Smokey Bones, aiming to redefine the casual dining experience [2][5] - Twin Peaks, founded in 2005, has 114 locations across the U.S. and Mexico, known for its sports bar atmosphere and diverse menu [6] - Smokey Bones specializes in barbecue and offers a full-service dining experience with a variety of beverages [7] Chapter 11 Proceedings - The chapter 11 process is expected to allow Twin Hospitality to strengthen its financial position and create flexibility for future growth [3] - The company plans to maintain normal operations during the bankruptcy process, ensuring continued service to customers and support for franchise partners and employees [2][3] - Legal and financial advisors have been appointed to assist in the restructuring process, including Latham & Watkins LLP as legal counsel and GLC Advisors & Co., LLC as investment banker [4]