Earnings call transcript: New Mountain Finance posts flat Q3 2026 EPS

Yum China reported Q3 2026 earnings that exceeded profit expectations, but revenue fell short of forecasts. Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) rose to $0.91, surpassing the $0.88 forecast. Revenue totaled $3.48 billion, just below the $3.50 billion estimate. Shares dropped 4.5% in premarket trading, falling $2.12 from the previous close.

While same-store sales remained weak, management highlighted positive transaction growth for the 15th consecutive quarter. The company raised its 2026 net new store target to over 2,400 stores. Operating margins and restaurant margins improved year over year, aided by rent savings and better efficiency. Management pointed to new growth engines, including KCOFFEE, KPRO, and Pizza Hut Burger Bar.

Despite a difficult operating environment, driven by weaker consumer traffic, weather disruptions, and a faster-than-expected decline in delivery subsidies, revenue grew 8% in reported currency, with operating profit up 13% and diluted EPS climbing 20% in reported currency. System sales, operating profit, and operating margin all increased for the 10th consecutive quarter.

Same-store sales, however, were 97% of last year's level, with the decline attributed to last year's subsidy-driven sales and this year's adverse weather. Management noted that transaction growth remained positive for the 15th straight quarter, deeming it the most important growth metric. The company also reported a 6% increase in active members, reaching 278 million.

Despite the earnings beat, revenue fell slightly short of expectations, prompting a market reaction.