Short interest for Wendy's gives investors a sense of the degree to which investors are betting on the decline of Wendy's's stock. Short interest data is updated every two weeks.

Wendy's Stock (NASDAQ:WEN), Short Interest Report

Wendy's

The Wendy's Company is the second-largest burger quick-service restaurant, or QSR, chain in the United States by systemwide sales, with $12.3 billion in 2023, narrowly edging Burger King ($11.5 billion) and clocking in well behind wide-moat McDonald's ($53.1 billion). After divestitures of Tim Hortons (2006) and Arby's (2011), the firm manages just the burger banner, generating sales across a footprint that spanned almost 7,157 total stores in 30 countries as of year-end 2023. Wendy's generates revenue from the sale of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and fries throughout its company-owned footprint, through franchise royalty and marketing fund payments remitted by its franchisees, which account for 94% of stores, and through franchise flipping and advisory fees.

Wendy's drive thru restauarant

Earnings

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News

Guidance

Markets

Movers

General

Wendy&#39;s shares rise 3% post-Q1 results driven by strong U.S. breakfast sales growth, while adjusted EPS beats expectations and dividend declared.

Wendy&#39;s +3% After Q1 Results On Solid Growth In US Breakfast Sales Despite Labor Cost Issues

Small Cap

Trading Ideas

FWRG

First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FWRG) is expected to deliver a year-over-year decline in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended March 2024.

First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. Expected to Beat Earnings Estimates: Should You Buy?

fast food ai

Restaurants

JACK

PZZA

SBUX

Some fast food joints are cutting employee hours. Others are installing digital order kiosks — a trend that was already in full swing.

Not-So-Happy Meal: $20 Wages Has Burger Joints In This State All Heated

The Wendy's Co

SUMMUS SOLUTIONS NV by Summus Solutions N.V.

Summus Solutions NV

WENR Corp

Wendel SE

WENTWORTH ENERGY INC by Wentworth Energy, Inc.

Wentworth Energy Corp

Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.23 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $0.21 by 9.52 percent. This is a 9.52 percent increase over earnings of $0.21 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $534.75 million which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $540.97 million by 1.15 percent. This is a 1.12 percent increase over sales of $528.81 million the same period last year.

Earnings Beats

CORRECTION: Wendy's Q1 Adj $0.23 Beats $0.21 Estimate, Sales $534.75M Miss $540.97M Estimate

Wendy&#8217;s Company&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) shares are trading higher on Thursday after<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/movers" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;reporting first-quarter results.</a>
The company reported first quarter adjusted earnings per share&nbsp;of&nbsp;23 cents,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/05/n38577388/the-wendys-company-reports-first-quarter-2024-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">beating the street view of 21 cents.&nbsp;</a>
Quarterly sales of $534.753 million&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">missed the street view of $540.972 million.</a>
Sales increased 1.1%&nbsp;year over year&nbsp;from increased advertising funds revenue and franchise royalty revenue, both driven by net new restaurant development and higher same-restaurant sales.
&#8220;We delivered global same-restaurant sales growth, which accelerated by 120 basis points on a two-year basis versus the previous quarter.&nbsp;This&nbsp;was driven in part by&nbsp;high-single digit&nbsp;year-over-year U.S. breakfast sales growth and global digital sales mix of nearly 17%,&#8221; President and Chief Executive Officer&nbsp;Kirk Tanner&nbsp;said.
U.S. Company-Operated Restaurant Margin expanded to 15.3% from 14.7% year over year owing to a&nbsp;higher average check, the company said.&nbsp;These were partially offset by customer count&nbsp;declines and higher labor costs.
Dividend:&nbsp;The company announced today&nbsp;the declaration of&nbsp;its regular quarterly cash dividend of&nbsp;25 cents&nbsp;per share. The dividend is payable on&nbsp;June 17 to shareholders of record as of&nbsp;June 3.
Outlook:&nbsp;Wendy&#8217;s&nbsp;continues to expect&nbsp;global systemwide&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">sales growth of 5% to 6%.</a>&nbsp;
The company expects FY24 adjusted EBITDA of&nbsp;$535&nbsp;million to&nbsp;$545 million.&nbsp;Adjusted earnings per share&nbsp;is expected&nbsp;in the band of&nbsp;$0.98&nbsp;to&nbsp;$1.02 versus&nbsp;$0.99 estimate.
Price Action: WEN shares are trading higher by 3.36% to $20.28 at last check Thursday. 
Photo by QualityHD on Shutterstock

Wendy's +3% After Q1 Results On Solid Growth In US Breakfast Sales Despite Labor Cost Issues

First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fwrg#NASDAQ">FWRG</a>) is expected to deliver a year-over-year decline in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended March 2024. This widely-known consensus outlook gives a good sense of the company&#39;s earnings picture, but how the actual results compare to these estimates is a powerful factor that could impact its near-term stock price.
The stock might move higher if these key numbers top expectations in the upcoming earnings report, which is expected to be released on May 7. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management&#39;s discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it&#39;s worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus Estimate
This company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.10 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -33.3%.
Revenues are expected to be $244.78 million, up 15.8% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions Trend
The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that an aggregate change may not always reflect the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts.
Earnings Whisper
Estimate revisions ahead of a company&#39;s earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. This insight is at the core of our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction).
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model&#39;s predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for First Watch Restaurant Group?
For First Watch Restaurant Group, the Most Accurate Estimate is higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bullish on the company&#39;s earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +15.39%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3.
So, this combination indicates that First Watch Restaurant Group will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?
While calculating estimates for a company&#39;s future earnings, analysts often consider to what extent it has been able to match past consensus estimates. So, it&#39;s worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that First Watch Restaurant Group would post earnings of $0.04 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.04, delivering no surprise.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates three times.
Bottom Line
An earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it&#39;s worth checking a company&#39;s Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they&#39;ve reported.
First Watch Restaurant Group appears a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
An Industry Player&#39;s Expected Results
Another stock from the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry, Wendy&#39;s (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wen#NASDAQ">WEN</a>), is soon expected to post earnings of $0.21 per share for the quarter ended March 2024. This estimate indicates no change from the year-ago quarter. Revenues for the quarter are expected to be $541.41 million, up 2.4% from the year-ago quarter.
Over the last 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for Wendy&#39;s has been revised 0.4% down to the current level. Nevertheless, the company now has an Earnings ESP of 1.19%, reflecting a higher Most Accurate Estimate.
This Earnings ESP, combined with its Zacks Rank #4 (Sell), makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Wendy&#39;s will beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2265073/first-watch-restaurant-group-inc-fwrg-expected-to-beat-earnings-estimates-should-you-buy?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-tale_of_the_tape|yseop_template_9-2265073">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Stephens &amp; Co. analyst Jim Salera reiterates Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Equal-Weight and maintains $20 price target.

Price Target

Reiteration

Analyst Ratings

Stephens & Co. Reiterates Equal-Weight on Wendy's, Maintains $20 Price Target

In the latest quarter, 14 analysts provided ratings for Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>), showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">11</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">6</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Providing deeper insights, analysts have established 12-month price targets, indicating an average target of $19.93, along with a high estimate of $22.00 and a low estimate of $19.00. A decline of 8.03% from the prior average price target is evident in the current average. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1714161622_0_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Exploring Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Overview</h2>
In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive Wendy's. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Charles</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Charles</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Charles</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sara Senatore</td>
<td>Bernstein</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$24.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>John Ivankoe</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher Carril</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Sector Perform</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jake Bartlett</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>$23.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joshua Long</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Strelzik</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joshua Long</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$21.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Wendy's. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Wendy's compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Understanding forecasts, analysts offer estimates for Wendy's's future value. Examining the current and prior targets provides insight into analysts' changing expectations.</li>
</ul>
Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of Wendy's's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEN/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Wendy's analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Discovering Wendy's: A Closer Look</h2>
The Wendy's Company is the second-largest burger quick-service restaurant, or QSR, chain in the United States by systemwide sales, with $12.3 billion in 2023, narrowly edging Burger King ($11.5 billion) and clocking in well behind wide-moat McDonald's ($53.1 billion). After divestitures of Tim Hortons (2006) and Arby's (2011), the firm manages just the burger banner, generating sales across a footprint that spanned almost 7,157 total stores in 30 countries as of year-end 2023. Wendy's generates revenue from the sale of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and fries throughout its company-owned footprint, through franchise royalty and marketing fund payments remitted by its franchisees, which account for 94% of stores, and through franchise flipping and advisory fees.
<h3>Breaking Down Wendy's's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Reflecting a smaller scale, the company's market capitalization is positioned below industry averages. This could be attributed to factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.
Revenue Growth: Wendy's's remarkable performance in 3 months is evident. As of 31 December, 2023, the company achieved an impressive revenue growth rate of 0.77%. This signifies a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Consumer Discretionary sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Net Margin: Wendy's's net margin excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 8.68%. This signifies efficient cost management and strong financial health.
Return on Equity (ROE): Wendy's's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 14.39%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): Wendy's's ROA excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 0.9%. This signifies efficient management of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Wendy's's debt-to-equity ratio stands notably higher than the industry average, reaching 13.36. This indicates a heavier reliance on borrowed funds, raising concerns about financial leverage.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Analyst ratings serve as essential indicators of stock performance, provided by experts in banking and financial systems. These specialists diligently analyze company financial statements, participate in conference calls, and engage with insiders to generate quarterly ratings for individual stocks.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

A Glimpse Into The Expert Outlook On Wendy's Through 14 Analysts

Wedbush analyst Nick Setyan maintains Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $19 to $20.

Wedbush Maintains Neutral on Wendy's, Raises Price Target to $20

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/01/36493680/mcdonalds-18-big-mac-meal-goes-viral-again-as-fast-food-minimum-wage-hike-to-20-triggers-fears-of-sk">California fast-food employees</a> started earning a minimum of $20 an hour in April.
Thanks to a new law, which went into effect earlier this month, California chain restaurants with at least 60 locations nationwide have to pay their employees more. 
For smaller restaurants, the minimum wage continues to be the statewide bottom of $16 an hour.
The largest publicly-traded fast-food companies include McDonald&#8217;s Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>); Starbucks Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NASDAQ">SBUX</a>); Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YUM#NYSE">YUM</a>), which owns Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and KFC; Wendys Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>); Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSR#NYSE">QSR</a>), which owns Burger King; Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>); Papa John&#8217;s International Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PZZA#NASDAQ">PZZA</a>) and Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JACK#NASDAQ">JACK</a>).
Many of these stocks have lost value since the law was implemented on April 1.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38083611">AI Gunning For Fast Food Jobs Next? KFC, Taco Bell Operator Yum Brands Planning ChatGPT-Like Bots To Boost Operations</a>
The wage hikes were deemed necessary in the Golden State. After all, the <a href="https://www.rentcafe.com/cost-of-living-calculator/us/ca/">cost of living in California</a> is about 38% higher than the national average.
Some fast food companies are considering cutting employee hours and raising menu prices. 
In-N-Out Burger President Lynsi Snyder said in an <a href="https://www.today.com/video/in-n-out-burger-president-shares-story-behind-family-run-business-208611397732">interview</a> with Today that she "was sitting in VP meetings going toe-to-toe saying, ‘We can't raise the prices that much, we can't.&#8217;"
Her company, which owns over 400 restaurants — primarily in California — continues to be privately held. Snyder said there are no plans to go public or open up to the franchise model.
In-N-Out has, however, raised prices in Los Angeles restaurants by about 25 cents per burger. That&#8217;s still less than the price hikes other restaurants had to implement. 
According <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/04/11/business/in-n-out-president-lynsi-snyder-went-toe-to-toe-to-keep-menu-prices-down/">to</a> the New York Post, one Burger King in Los Angeles raised the price of its Double Texas Whopper by 12% from $15.09 to $16.89.
Many restaurant chains started preparing for wage hikes, even before the law was passed last September. Some companies are exploring automation as a strategy — a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-self-serve-kiosks-at-mcdonalds-mean-for-cashiers-2017-6">trend</a> that took off in 2017 with self-service ordering kiosks.
Insider <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/california-fast-food-minimum-wage-order-kiosks-burger-king-popeyes-2024-4">reported</a> that some restaurant franchises, including a major Burger King franchise, are ordering new digital order kiosks to replace existing staff.
Burger King management recently pointed out that customers tend to order larger meals whenever interacting with digital self-service screens.
In October, after California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the law, McDonald&#8217;s CEO Chris Kempczinski said on the company's third-quarter earnings call he expected the policy to "certainly be a hit in the short term to franchisee cashflow."
Yet the secondary effects of the new law could even replicate into further trouble for the fast food segment in the Golden State. A Jack in the Box franchise owner speculated on Sunday in an <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/fast-food-california-expensive-diners-could-switch-to-chilis-applebees-2024-4">interview</a> with Business Insider that rising prices for fast food chains could mean a loss in market share to casual diners like Chili&#8217;s, owned by Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EAT#NYSE">EAT</a>) or Applebee&#8217;s, a subsidiary of Dine Brands Global Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIN#NYSE">DIN</a>).
Casual dining restaurants could, in turn, benefit if they're able to keep running without altering prices.
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/37407897">Wendy&#8217;s Clarifies &#8216;Dynamic Pricing&#8217; Comments After Public Outcry, Elizabeth Warren Criticism</a>
Image from MidJourney AI.

TD Cowen analyst Andrew Charles reiterates Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Hold and maintains $19 price target.

TD Cowen Reiterates Hold on Wendy's, Maintains $19 Price Target

Stephens &amp; Co. analyst Jim Salera reinstates Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Equal-Weight and announces $20 price target.

Initiation

Stephens & Co. Reinstates Equal-Weight on Wendy's, Announces $20 Price Target

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Top 10 Trending Stocks On WallStreetBets As Of April 11, 2024 (Via Swaggy Stocks)

In the preceding three months, 10 analysts have released ratings for Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>), presenting a wide array of perspectives from bullish to bearish.
The table below offers a condensed view of their recent ratings, showcasing the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">7</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">5</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts provide deeper insights through their assessments of 12-month price targets, revealing an average target of $20.1, a high estimate of $22.00, and a low estimate of $19.00. A decline of 8.64% from the prior average price target is evident in the current average. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1712764832_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Decoding Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Look</h2>
A comprehensive examination of how financial experts perceive Wendy's is derived from recent analyst actions. The following is a detailed summary of key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Charles</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sara Senatore</td>
<td>Bernstein</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$24.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>John Ivankoe</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher Carril</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Sector Perform</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jake Bartlett</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>$23.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joshua Long</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Strelzik</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joshua Long</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$21.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Wendy's. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts unravel qualitative evaluations for stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings offer insights into expectations for the relative performance of Wendy's compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Wendy's's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
To gain a panoramic view of Wendy's's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEN/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Wendy's analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>All You Need to Know About Wendy's</h2>
The Wendy's Company is the second-largest burger quick-service restaurant, or QSR, chain in the United States by systemwide sales, with $12.3 billion in 2023, narrowly edging Burger King ($11.5 billion) and clocking in well behind wide-moat McDonald's ($53.1 billion). After divestitures of Tim Hortons (2006) and Arby's (2011), the firm manages just the burger banner, generating sales across a footprint that spanned almost 7,157 total stores in 30 countries as of year-end 2023. Wendy's generates revenue from the sale of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and fries throughout its company-owned footprint, through franchise royalty and marketing fund payments remitted by its franchisees, which account for 94% of stores, and through franchise flipping and advisory fees.
<h3>Financial Insights: Wendy's</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization is below the industry average, suggesting that it is relatively smaller compared to peers. This could be due to various factors, including perceived growth potential or operational scale.
Revenue Growth: Wendy's displayed positive results in 3 months. As of 31 December, 2023, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 0.77%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Consumer Discretionary sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 8.68%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Wendy's's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 14.39%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Wendy's's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 0.9%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Wendy's's debt-to-equity ratio stands notably higher than the industry average, reaching 13.36. This indicates a heavier reliance on borrowed funds, raising concerns about financial leverage.
<h2>How Are Analyst Ratings Determined?</h2>
Within the domain of banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their work involves attending company conference calls and meetings, researching company financial statements, and communicating with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

What 10 Analyst Ratings Have To Say About Wendy's

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During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/yield-investments"> high dividend payout. </a>
Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on&nbsp;their favorite stocks&nbsp;by visiting our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock Ratings&nbsp;</a>page. Traders can sort through Benzinga&#39;s extensive database of analyst ratings, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie"> by analyst accuracy </a>.
Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the consumer discretionary sector.
<h3>Kohl&#39;s Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/kss#NYSE">KSS</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 7.87%</li>
<li>Citigroup analyst Paul Lejuez maintained a Neutral rating and cut the price target from $27 to $24 on March 13, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 66%.</li>
<li>JP Morgan analyst Matthew Boss maintained a Neutral rating and raised the price target from $20 to $21 on March 13, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 67%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On March 12, Kohl&rsquo;s reported a fourth-quarter FY23 sales decline of 1.1% year-on-year to $5.71 billion, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $5.70 billion.</li>
</ul>
<h3>The Wendy&#39;s Company (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wen#NASDAQ">WEN</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 5.36%</li>
<li>JP Morgan analyst John Ivankoe downgraded the stock from Overweight to Neutral and cut the price target from $22 to $19 on Feb. 21, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>BMO Capital analyst Andrew Strelzik maintained a Market Perform rating and lowered the price target from $22 to $20 on Feb. 16, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 84%.</li>
<li>Recent News: The Wendy&#39;s Company said it will release its first quarter 2024 results before the opening bell on May 2.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/din#NYSE">DIN</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.65%</li>
<li>Wedbush analyst Nick Setyan maintained a Neutral rating and raised the price target from $46 to $48 on Feb. 29, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 84%.</li>
<li>Piper Sandler analyst Brian Mullan maintained a Neutral rating and slashed the price target from $59 to $49 on Nov. 2, 2023. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 86%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Feb. 28, Dine Brands Global posted better-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings.</li>
</ul>
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Dividends

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The Walt Disney Co. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/dis#NYSE">DIS</a>) shares have been surging to 52-week highs, but not necessarily due to material improvements in operations. There is a proxy war being undertaken between billionaire activist investor Nelson Peltz of the Trian Fund and the Walt Disney CEO Bob Iger. The battle boils down to control of the Board of Directors as shareholders vote at the investor meeting on April 3, 2024.
<h2>How Did The Proxy War Emerge? </h2>
Nelson Peltz&#39;s Trian Group owns over $3.5 billion of Disney stock. Peltz has spoken out against the Board of Directors whom he says is responsible for the woeful underperformance of the stock and operations. Peltz is fighting for two board seats. Peltz argues the board is not truly engaged and needs to take accountability. Trian started #RestoreTheMagic, stating,&nbsp;&quot;&hellip;the root cause of underperformance is the Board&#39;s lack of focus, alignment and accountability.&quot;
<h2>The White Paper Against Disney</h2>
Peltz has noted the change in culture at the company and his distaste for the direction of the company, which has been anchored in &quot;woke&quot; culture that has replaced many of its iconic characters, leading to box office disasters like The Marvels and Haunted Mansion. In a nutshell, Peltz feels Disney has lost its way and traditional values, pandering to a message of diversity and inclusion.
On March 4, 2024, Trian released a 133-page white paper, &quot;White Paper: Trian&#39;s Case for Change at Disney&quot;, detailing Peltz&#39;s plan to turn around the company, which includes performance-based compensation with shareholder value, reaching 15% to 20% margin and replacing its CEO.
<h2>Trian Group Nominates 2 Board Members</h2>
In a letter to shareholders, Trian Group put out a statement, &quot;To help ensure a better future for this great company, we believe Disney needs new independent directors who have a shareholder mindset, deep and relevant experience and a sense of urgency. We have nominated two such candidates, Nelson Peltz and Jay Rasulo, who have invested their own money in Disney stock and are dedicated to helping Disney.&quot;
<h2>A History of Board Participation</h2>
Nelson Peltz has had a history of taking control of Board Seats influencing companies mostly for the better for shareholders and customers. He is the Chairman of the Board for The Wendy&#39;s Co. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wen#NASDAQ">WEN</a>). He succeeded in taking a seat at The Proctor &amp; Gamble Co. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pg#NYSE">PG</a>) and Kraft Heinz&nbsp;and turning the stock around. Peltz has board positions in up to 20 other companies, schools, civic organizations and museums. Peltz has commented that the battle is not about Bob Iger but board oversight.
<h2>A Turnaround in the Works?</h2>
The day after Trian&#39;s White Paper was released, Disney stated it would exceed guidance expectations at a conference on March 5, 2024. Disney claimed it will exceed 2024 cash flow guidance. ESPN grew in terms of ROI and rating in 2022, 2023 and Q1 2024. It expects its direct-to-consumer (DTC) segment, which includes Disney+, to be profitable by Q4 2024. This left investors questioning the timing and whether Disney was bluffing in reaction to Trian&#39;s White Paper.
<h2>The Alliances Chime In</h2>
A number of large shareholders have chimed in on the proxy war. Vocal shareholders backing Bob Iger include Jamie Dimon, George Lucas, Blackwells Capital Abigail Disney, Roy Disney and 6 other family members. ISS Shareholders, Egan-Jones and the CalPERS pension fund are backing Peltz. Disney shares climbed 5% in the week preceding the shareholder meeting. The question is whether it&#39;s driven higher because of Peltz&#39;s proxy war or defense against it.
After the shareholder vote on April 3, 2024, Disney shares will reveal which was responsible.
<h2>Analysts Chime In</h2>
Several analysts upgraded shares of Disney ahead of the investor meeting. UBS reiterated its Buy rating and raised its price target on DIS to $140 on March 27, 2024. Analyst John Hodulik noted they remain bullish on shares driven by multiple potential upsides that can drive earnings higher yield at 25% for a 3-year CAGR. This will be driven by its Parks business, with help from Content and DTC segments. He commented, &quot;We expect FCF of $9B in F24E (vs. guidance for ~$8B), rising to $14B in F26E, supporting ramping buybacks, dividend growth and incremental investments. Parks continue to outperform expectations while new spending will boost capacity.&quot;
<img alt="" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.marketbeat.com/logos/articles/med_20240331141636_charts-dis.jpg" style="height:795px; width:915px" />
<h2>Daily Bull Flag Breakout</h2>
The daily candlestick chart for DIS illustrates an ascending triangle breakout pattern to 52-week highs. The bullish move is driven by analyst upgrades and the proxy war, which will conclude the April 3, 2024, shareholders meeting vote. The daily relative strength index (RSI) is in deep overbought territory at the 80-band. Shares could trigger a sell-the-news reaction after the proxy vote. Pullback support levels are at $114.13, $106.80, $99.28 and $94.83.&nbsp;
The article &quot;<a href="https://www.marketbeat.com/originals/walt-disneys-proxy-tug-of-war-pulls-shares-to-52-week-highs/">Walt Disney&#39;s Proxy Tug of War Pulls Shares to 52-Week Highs </a>&quot; first appeared on MarketBeat.

Walt Disney's Proxy Tug of War Pulls Shares to 52-Week Highs

During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/yield-investments"> high dividend payout. </a>
Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on&nbsp;their favorite stocks&nbsp;by visiting our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock Ratings&nbsp;</a>page. Traders can sort through Benzinga&#39;s extensive database of analyst ratings, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie"> by analyst accuracy </a>.
Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the consumer discretionary sector.
<h3>Leggett &amp; Platt, Incorporated (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/leg#NYSE">LEG</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 9.75%</li>
<li>Piper Sandler analyst Peter Keith reiterated an Underweight rating and lowered the price target from $18 to $16 on March 12, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 75%.</li>
<li>Truist Securities analyst Keith Hughes maintained a Hold rating and slashed the price target from $24 to $18 on Feb. 13, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 87%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Feb. 8, Leggett &amp; Platt reported worse-than-expected fourth-quarter financial results and issued FY24 adjusted EPS and revenue guidance below estimates.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Ford Motor Company (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/f#NYSE">F</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.65%</li>
<li>Piper Sandler analyst Alexander Potter initiated coverage on the stock with a Neutral rating and a price target of $13 on March 15, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 77%.</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas maintained an Overweight rating and boosted the price target from $15 to $16 on Feb. 13, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 63%.</li>
<li>Recent News: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is reportedly probing a fatal crash involving a Ford&rsquo;s Mustang Mach-E in San Antonio, Texas.</li>
</ul>
<h3>The Wendy&#39;s Company (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wen#NASDAQ">WEN</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 5.39%</li>
<li>JP Morgan analyst John Ivankoe downgraded the stock from Overweight to Neutral and cut the price target from $22 to $19 on Feb. 21, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>Truist Securities analyst Jake Bartlett maintained a Buy rating and cut the price target from $23 to $22 on Feb. 20, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 81%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Feb. 15, Wendy&rsquo;s said fourth-quarter sales rose 0.8% year-on-year to $540.7 million, missing the analyst consensus estimate of $546.5 million.</li>
</ul>
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The Nasdaq 100 closed higher by more than 250 points on Friday. Investors, meanwhile, focused on some notable insider trades.
When insiders sell shares, it could be a preplanned sale, or could indicate their concern in the company&rsquo;s prospects or that they view the stock as being overpriced. Insider sales should not be taken as the only indicator for making an investment or trading decision. At best, it can lend conviction to a selling decision.
Below is a look at a few recent notable insider sales. For more, check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/"> Benzinga&#39;s insider transactions </a> platform.
<h3>iRobot </h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: iRobot Corporation (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/irbt#NASDAQ">IRBT</a>) Director Colin M Angle <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/"> sold a total of 179,503 shares </a> at an average price of $11.46. The insider received around $2.06 million from selling those shares.</li>
<li>What&rsquo;s Happening: On Feb. 26, iRobot reported mixed fourth-quarter financial results.</li>
<li>What iRobot Does: iRobot Corp is a united state based consumer robot company. It designs and builds robots that assist consumers with the solutions for the activities to be carried both inside and outside of the home.</li>
</ul>
Have a look at our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/"> premarket coverage here </a> 
<h3>JELD-WEN Holding</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: JELD-WEN Holding, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/jeld#NYSE">JELD</a>) Director Roderick Wendt <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/"> sold a total of 50,150 shares </a> at an average price of $27.37. The insider received around 1.35 million from selling those shares.</li>
<li>What&rsquo;s Happening: On Feb. 19, JELD-WEN reported better than expected fourth-quarter earnings.</li>
<li>What JELD-WEN Holding Does: JELD-WEN Holding Inc is engaged in door and window manufacturing. The company designs, produces, and distributes interior and exterior building products, offering a selection of doors, windows, walls, and related products.</li>
</ul>
<h3>BlackRock </h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/blk#NYSE">BLK</a>) Chairman and CEO Laurence Fink <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/"> sold a total of 30,978 shares </a> at an average price of $809.92. The insider received around $25.09 million from selling those shares.</li>
<li>What&rsquo;s Happening: On Jan. 12, BlackRock reported fourth-quarter revenue growth of 7% Y/Y to $4.631 billion, marginally above the consensus of $4.627 billion.</li>
<li>What BlackRock Does: BlackRock is the largest asset manager in the world, with $10.008 trillion in assets under management at the end of December 2023.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Wendy&#39;s Company </h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: The Wendy&#39;s Company (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wen#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) Director Kenneth W Gilbert <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/"> sold a total of 4,500 shares </a> at an average price of $18.07. The insider received around $81,315 from selling those shares.</li>
<li>What&rsquo;s Happening: On Feb. 15, Wendy&rsquo;s reported fourth-quarter FY23 results. Sales growth of 0.8% year-on-year to $540.7 million, missing the analyst consensus estimate of $546.5 million.</li>
<li>What Wendy&#39;s Does: The Wendy&#39;s Company is the second-largest burger quick-service restaurant, or QSR, chain in the United States by systemwide sales, with $12.3 billion in 2023, narrowly edging Burger King ($11.5 billion) and clocking in well behind wide-moat McDonald&#39;s ($53.1 billion).</li>
</ul>
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Fast food giant Wendys Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) caused quite a stir online and on social media with reports that the company would offer dynamic pricing and potentially raise prices during<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/02/37349736/fast-food-chain-to-test-surge-pricing-based-on-customer-supply-and-demand-seems-like-a-good-i"> periods of high demand.</a>
The company is now walking back its original comments.
What Happened: The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants">restaurant company </a>recently reported fourth-quarter financial results, which also included comments from new CEO Kirk Tanner on digital business initiatives such as new menu boards.
"Beginning as early as 2025, we will begin testing more enhanced features like dynamic pricing and daypart offerings, along with AI-enabled menu changes and suggestive selling," Tanner said during the earnings call.
The mention of dynamic pricing led to many suggesting that Wendy's would raise prices during periods of high demand, which is similar to surge pricing used by ride-share companies like Uber and Lyft.
"To clarify, Wendy's will not implement surge pricing, which is the practice of raising prices when demand is highest," company spokesperson Heidi Schauer <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/02/28/business/wendys-u-turns-on-dynamic-pricing-that-would-raise-prices-during-peak-hours/">told </a>The New York Post. "We didn't use that phrase, nor do we plan to implement that practice."
Schauer said there are no plans to raise prices "when our customers are visiting us most."
"Dynamic pricing can allow Wendy's to be competitive and flexible with pricing, motivate customers to visit and provide them with the food they love at a great value."
The company issued a statement saying the initiative is the digital menu boards, which will provide flexibility for restaurants with no plans to raise prices.
"Wendy's has always been about providing high-quality food at a great value, and customers can continue to expect that from our brand," the company <a href="https://www.wendys.com/blog/wendys-digital-news-update">said</a>.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/02/37163270/frosty-outlook-for-wendys-underwhelming-q4-results-amid-rising-digital-sales-and-global-expansion">Frosty Outlook For Wendy&#8217;s: Underwhelming Q4 Results Amid Rising Digital Sales And Global Expansion</a>
Why It's Important: The backpedaling by Wendy's comes after many media outlets including the New York Post ran with the dynamic pricing comment meaning an increase in prices during peak periods.
Criticism for the chain ran rampant on social media and many people said they would stop going to Wendy's. Among the people who criticized the news was Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).
"Wendy's is planning to try out ‘surge pricing' — that means you could pay more for your lunch, even if the cost to Wendy's stays exactly the same. It's price going plain and simple, and American families have had enough," Warren <a href="https://twitter.com/SenWarren/status/1762848417288475038">said</a>.
The tweet from Warren has since received a Community Notes clarification on it with Wendy's updated statement linked.
The media outlet reached out to Wendy's questioning if burger prices would go up during lunch and dinner hours and did not receive a direct answer.
"We will test a number of features that we think will provide an enhanced customer and crew experience," the company said. "We don't have any additional information to share at this time." &nbsp;
Here are the Oxford language definitions for surge pricing and dynamic pricing found on Google.
Surge Pricing: "The practice of charging more for a product or service during periods when it is in high demand."
Dynamic Pricing: "The practice of varying the price for a product or service to reflect changing market conditions, in particular the charging of a higher price at a time of greater demand."
The definitions are quite similar in fashion with the exception of dynamic pricing not always coming as an increase.
Tanner's comments about dynamic pricing said the new digital menu boards "should increase further supporting sales and profit growth" for the company. With discount prices on the digital boards, it would take more frequent visits from customers to lead to increased sales and profits.
 WEN Price Action: Wendy's shares were down 0.49% to $18.11 on Thursday at market close versus a 52-week trading range of $17.64 to $23.90.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEN/analyst-ratings">Analyst Ratings For Wendy&#8217;s </a>

Wendy's Clarifies 'Dynamic Pricing' Comments After Public Outcry, Elizabeth Warren Criticism

A leading fast-food company could have a new trick up its sleeve to increase sales and profits, potentially changing the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants">restaurant sector forever.</a>
What Happened: Fresh off its fourth-quarter earnings results, The Wendy's Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) recently highlighted a new way for future growth after missing revenue and earnings per share estimates from analysts.
Beginning in 2025, Wendy's will utilize surge-pricing that has become popular for ride-sharing companies. The restaurant company will charge more for certain menu items during peak times. This could mean items like a burger may cost more during the normal lunch or dinner hours, varying by location based on traffic and demand.
To facilitate this new pricing strategy, Wendy&#8217;s is investing $20 million in advanced, high-tech menu boards capable of adjusting prices in real-time, according to a report by The New York Post.
"As we continue to show the benefit of this technology in our company-operated restaurants, franchisee interest in digital menu boards should increase further supporting sales and profit growth across the system," Wendy's CEO Kirk Tanner said.
The CEO did not specify the potential peak prices or whether there would be price reductions during off-peak times with lower customer traffic.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/02/37329008/not-nvidia-or-meta-hedge-fund-titan-bill-ackman-sees-lucrative-opportunity-in-this-">Not Nvidia Or Meta: Hedge Fund Titan Bill Ackman Sees Lucrative Opportunity In This &#8216;Magnificent 7&#8217; Stock</a>
Why It's Important: Wendy's told The New York Post that "dynamic pricing" will allow the company to be competitive and flexible with pricing.
The new pricing method could help with staffing and scheduling at restaurants. The new method could also increase sales during normal off-peak hours.
While most people on social media were not fans of the change, Wendy&#8217;s might find an unexpected ally in billionaire Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla.
"Seems like a good idea. Costs are fairly constant, but demand varies. Lower cost meals available off hours makes sense," Musk tweeted.
Musk speculated that the average meal costs at Wendy&#8217;s might decrease, leading to improved operating margins for the restaurant chain.
As noted by The New York Post, prices on fast food items can vary based on geographic location. 
Ride-share companies like Uber and Lyft charge more based on demand on apps. Many industries also have price increases based on supply and demand, including airlines and hotels during big events in cities. Supply and demand remains one of the most basic economic principles today. 
One big test will be whether other restaurant chains experiment with dynamic pricing, adopt a wait-and-see stance regarding Wendy&#8217;s initiative, or strategically leverage Wendy&#8217;s higher pricing as a marketing advantage for themselves.
The new pricing structure could also serve as a big test for Tanner, who was named the new CEO of the company in early 2024 after over 30 years with beverage giant PepsiCo.
WEN Price Action: Wendy's shares closed at $18.11 on Tuesday, versus a 52-week trading range of $17.64 to $23.90.
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/02/37346557/are-nvidia-eli-lilly-amds-high-equity-valuations-in-peril-from-higher-rates">Are Nvidia, Eli Lilly, AMD&#8217;s High Equity Valuations In Peril From Higher Rates?</a>
Image created using artificial intelligence with MidJourney.

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Wendy&rsquo;s (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/wen-stock-quote/">WEN</a>) just reported results for the first quarter of 2024.<ul><li>Wendy&rsquo;s reported earnings per share of 23 cents. This was above the analyst estimate for EPS of 21 cents.</li><li>The company reported revenue of $534.75 million.</li><li>This was 1.15% worse than the analyst estimate for revenue of $540.97 million.</li></ul><div>InvestorPlace Earnings is a project that leverages data from <a href="https://www.tradesmith.com">TradeSmith</a> to automate coverage of quarterly earnings reports. InvestorPlace Earnings distills key takeaways including earnings per share and revenue, as well as how a company stacks up to analyst estimates. These articles are published without human intervention, allowing us to inform our readers of the latest figures as quickly as possible. To report any concerns or inaccuracies, please contact us at <a href="mailto:editor@investorplace.com">editor@investorplace.com</a>.</div><h3>More From InvestorPlace</h3>
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	The post <a href="https://investorplace.com/earning-results/2024/05/wen-stock-earnings-wendys-for-q1-of-2024/">WEN Stock Earnings: Wendy&#8217;s Beats EPS, Misses Revenue for Q1 2024</a> appeared first on <a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace</a>.

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