Cardinal Health Inc vs McDonald's Corp — how do they compare? Cardinal Health Inc trades at $228.8 (market cap $53.89B), while McDonald's Corp trades at $269.4 (market cap $191.08B). The key difference: McDonald's Corp is far larger — about 3.5× Cardinal Health Inc's market cap, and McDonald's Corp pays the higher dividend (2.77%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| CAH | MCD | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $53.89B | $191.08B |
Sector | Health | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $239.71 | $341.06 |
52-Week Low | $146.04 | $264.54 |
Enterprise Value | $58.87B | $244.79B |
Dividend Yield | 0.89% | 2.77% |
Volume | — | 2,230,036 |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Cardinal Health (CAH) trades at $233.66, down 0.91% in the last session, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages and strong analyst support. The company has consistently beaten earnings estimates in recent quarters, with Q1 2026 EPS of $3.17 surpassing expectations. Revenue reached $222.58 billion in 2025, though net margins remain thin at 0.62%. Recent news highlights growth potential in medical supplies, with earnings results for fiscal 2026 due August 11.
The outlook for CAH is positive, driven by earnings momentum and sector tailwinds, but risks include high leverage with debt-to-asset ratio at 16.09% and competitive pressures. Analyst consensus is bullish with a $248 price target, suggesting 6% upside. Investors should weigh solid operational cash flow against negative shareholder equity and investing outflows.
McDonald's (MCD) trades at $272.61, down 0.72% on the day, with a bearish technical signal from moving averages but neutral oscillators. The company reported revenue of $26.89 billion in 2025, with a net income margin of 31.62%, and recently unveiled its 'McDonald's NEXT' growth strategy focusing on automation and menu innovation. Analyst consensus is a Buy with a $325.50 price target, indicating significant upside potential.
The outlook for MCD is positive due to strong fundamentals, consistent profitability, and strategic initiatives to drive growth. Key risks include inflationary pressures on franchisee margins and competitive threats. The stock presents a long-term opportunity supported by analyst optimism and a resilient business model, though near-term volatility may persist.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
Cardinal Health is a leading pharmaceutical wholesaler, engaged in the sourcing and distribution of branded, generic, and specialty pharmaceutical products to pharmacies (retail chains, independent, and mail-order), hospitals networks, and healthcare providers. Along with AmerisourceBergen and McKesson, the three compose well over 90% of the U.S. pharmaceutical wholesale industry. Cardinal Health also supplies medical-surgical products and equipment to healthcare facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Read more on CAH →McDonald's Corporation franchises and operates fast-food restaurants in the global restaurant industry. The Company's restaurants serves a variety of value-priced menu products in countries around the world.
Read more on MCD →