U.S. fast-food chains report fatter margins as cheese, chicken, avocado costs fall

Major U.S. restaurant chains including burger giant McDonald’s (MCD.N) saw lower ingredient costs, especially for chicken, cheese and avocado, drive profit margins in the second quarter. Domino’s (DPZ.N), McDonald’s and Chipotle (CMG.N) said they were starting to benefit from easing costs after red-hot inflation forced them to raise menu prices a few quarters ago.

5 ways banks are plugging into the electric vehicle market

Banks are revving up their work with electric vehicle manufacturers by forging partnerships, offering vehicle financing and collaborating on digital tools. The sector is sizzling: Moody’s Investors Service reports that sales and announced launches of alternative fuel vehicles, especially battery electric vehicles, or BEVs, “are gaining momentum in the U.S. as auto manufacturers drive toward…