Fast food chains have had an interesting year with the return of McDonald's dollar menu and America's desire to eat healthier. So what does it mean for the industry going into 2018? Jeff Tomasulo, CEO at Vespula Capital, and Chris Versace, Chief Investment Officer at Tematica Research, join Cheddar to discuss which chain will come out on top.
McDonald's stopped using the value meal strategy in 2013, and it has cost them $2.9 billion in sales, according to Tomasulo. He says the fast food restaurant game is all about volume and getting people in the door. Now that McDonald's brought it back, it's bringing in more foot traffic but also forcing other chains to discount their menus. Wendy's beefed up its "4 for $4" bundles in response to McDonald's dollar menu revival.
Other than price, these fast food chains also need to worry about food safety, something Chipotle has had a rough time with. Versace says if the company can fix the safety issue and get its cost structure in line, the stock could turn for the better in a very quick manner. He says company turnarounds tend to take time and unfortuneatly that shakes investor confidence.
Stocks were mixed in Friday's opening session as the Nasdaq sought to recover after a rough week and following Amazon's earnings, which topped expectations.
It's a benefit to have a 401k plan with your employer but it can also be stressful to decide how to best allocate your contributions. Michele Schneider, partner and director of trading research and education with MarketGauge.com, joined Cheddar News to explain which markets are best to invest in, depending on your age demographic.
There is no specific formula or playbook for handling money with your spouse. Is it any different with a second marriage? Kelli Smith, director of financial planning with Edelman Financial Engines, joined Cheddar News to discuss what approach to take with finances with a new partner.
