MEAL DEAL: McDonald's profit edged up in the fourth quarter after some moves to boost slumping sales, including touting its Dollar Menu and pushing franchisees to stay open on Christmas.

MENU PIPELINE: Executives don't expect 2013 to be an easy year but say the company has a robust pipeline of new menu items. In January, however, McDonald's said it expects a key sales figure to drop.

FOOD FIGHT: In addition to broader economic pressures, McDonald's is facing intensifying competition from traditional rivals like Burger King and Wendy's, as well as newer competitors Chipotle and Panera.