McDonald's reported better-than-expected third-quarter revenue and earnings, with adjusted earnings per share of $3.23 surpassing analysts' estimates of $3.20 and increasing by 1% year-over-year. Revenue reached $6.87 billion, exceeding expectations of $6.82 billion and rising by 2.7% compared to the same period last year. However, global comparable sales declined by 1.5%, marking the second consecutive quarterly decrease and falling short of the estimated 0.67% decline. Global systemwide sales were flat. In the U.S., same-store sales rose by 0.3%, slightly above the estimated 0.19%, reversing previous declines. Internationally, comparable sales were weaker, with operated markets down 2.1% and developmental licensed markets down 3.5%. The company noted that traffic in the U.S. was "slightly negative," but value offerings like the $5 Meal Deal and marketing efforts helped drive sales. Operating income decreased by 0.6% to $3.19 billion. McDonald's announced a 6% increase in its quarterly dividend to $1.77 per share. The company's market capitalization stands at $212.9 billion. The quarterly results included $52 million in pre-tax transaction costs and non-cash impairment charges, as well as $46 million in pre-tax strategic charges.