Chicago – September 19, 2026 -- McDonald's Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.93 per share, a 4% increase that marks the company's 50th consecutive year of dividend growth and vaults it into the exclusive ranks of "Dividend Kings."
McDonald's dividend increase pushes annualized payout to $7.72 per share
The new quarterly rate is payable on December 15, 2026 to shareholders of record as of December 1, 2026. The 50-year streak places McDonald's among fewer than 60 U.S. public companies that have raised annual dividends for at least half a century.
CFO Ian Borden credits cash-flow resilience for the milestone
"This milestone is the result of decades-long commitment to maintaining our financial discipline and rewarding our shareholders," said Ian Borden, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Financial Officer. He attributed the record to the sustained contribution of crew members, owner-operators and suppliers across the company's network.
Capital allocation strategy prioritizes growth investment, dividends and buybacks
McDonald's said its approach centers on three pillars: funding growth opportunities including capital expenditures and technology investments, prioritizing dividend payments, and repurchasing shares with remaining free cash flow over time.
Investor Day on September 23, 2026 to detail next growth phase
The company will use the upcoming Investor Day to outline financial targets and strategic priorities for its next phase of expansion, according to the announcement.