Morning Business Report: McDonald’s plans upgrades as stocks extend record-setting rally
McDonald's is preparing a new round of upgrades aimed at improving the customer experience while maintaining its focus on value and speed.

(LILAMAX)- McDonald’s is preparing a new round of upgrades aimed at improving the customer experience while maintaining its focus on value and speed.
Company executives announced plans for enhanced chicken offerings, updated playgrounds and redesigned restaurants with more open layouts. The company’s CEO said customers continue to expect affordability and fast service but are also looking for a more modern dining experience.
Meanwhile, retailers are coming off a stronger-than-expected start to the year despite high gasoline prices and economic uncertainty.
Analysts say tax refunds and increased use of buy now, pay later services may have helped support consumer spending. Investors will be closely watching upcoming earnings reports from major retailers for signs of potential weakness.
On Wall Street, stocks continued their rally Monday, with major indexes reaching new record highs.
Markets have now posted gains for nine consecutive weeks, fueled largely by investor enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence-related companies.
A new study from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York suggests remote work may be contributing to challenges facing recent college graduates entering the workforce.
Researchers found companies are less likely to hire new graduates for jobs that can be performed remotely. The study suggests employers may prefer in-person environments where younger workers can more easily learn from experienced colleagues.
And when it comes to footwear, a new survey suggests Americans become more practical shoppers around age 34.
The survey, conducted by Skechers and Talker Research, found more than half of Americans have purchased shoes they later regretted because they were uncomfortable. On average, respondents said they have wasted $279 on shoes that ultimately went unworn.