McDonald’s Warns That Consumer ‘Anxiety’ Could Hit Results

McDonald’s Corp. is reeling in diners with souped-up value offerings and bigger burgers, but it’s warning that worsening consumer sentiment will dampen second-quarter results.

After reporting a strong start to the year, the chain cautioned that it expects “meaningful deceleration” in the current quarter due to a run-up in gas prices caused by the war in Iran, as well as comparisons to a successful promotion last year. There’s “heightened anxiety” among consumers, McDonald’s Chief Executive Officer Chris Kempczinski said Thursday on a call with analysts.

McDonald’s is banking on new products, such as its recently launched beverage lineup and a ...