evidence: What US brands are owned by China? [...] The golden arches will be controlled by a new franchisee in China going forward. While McDonald's is retaining a 20% interest in the new company, 52% will be owned by China's largest conglomerate, CITIC, and 28% by asset manager Carlyle Group. The deal is valued at nearly $2.1 billion. [...] McDonald's in China and Hong Kong is 52 percent owned by CITIC, while Carlyle has a 28 percent stake. McDonald's itself retains a 20 percent interest in the business. The structure is aimed at improving sales at existing stores and expanding outlets.