Everyone is always looking for the perfect stock to buy for their portfolio, could it be McDonald’s? As unhealthy as it may be, I have to admit I love just about all of their food. Another pro of McDonald’s is that for the most part all their food is cheap. For under $6 you can get a sandwich, fry, and drink which is more than enough calories for your entire day.

As many of you know just about every retirement portfolio in America has taking a beating the past 12 or more months. My personal 401k has lost over 40% of it’s value in the past 12 months. However, if you take a look at the last two years of McDonald’s stock it has actually increased in value. January 30, 2007 McDonald’s stock was trading at about $43.00 per share and yesterday it closed at $58.83! Even in the worst market McDonald’s has managed to stay strong and increase in value.

Want another reason to invest in McDonald’s? They also pay a dividend over 3% per year. In today’s down market and financial disasters many companies are no longer paying dividends. Companies that have paid dividends for years are ending this prized bonus to it’s investors. McDonald’s however has no reason to end the dividend because of their continued success.

Just for you information I do not own McDonalds stock, yet. I do however plan to purchase McDonalds over the next few months to add a solid company to my portfolio.