Boeing stock sees upside potential despite ongoing operational challenges

As of April 1, 2025, Boeing's stock (NYSE: BA) is trading at $180.90, reflecting a 1.57% increase from the previous close.
The stock has displayed considerable volatility over the past year, fluctuating within a 52-week range between $137.09 and $197.17. This broad range underscores investor uncertainty driven by both macroeconomic factors and company-specific events.
The moving average setup provides further insight into the current trend. The 50-day moving average stands near $175, while the 200-day moving average is hovering around $185. The stock is currently positioned between these two averages, suggesting a period of consolidation. A cross above the 200-day moving average would signal renewed bullish momentum, whereas a drop below the 50-day average would increase bearish pressure.
BA stock price dynamics (January 2025 - March 2025). Source: TradingView.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) currently sits at 55, indicating that the stock is neither overbought nor oversold. This neutral reading suggests that there is room for movement in either direction, contingent on incoming news and macroeconomic shifts.
Market context
Boeing has been the subject of several significant developments that are influencing its short-term price action. Most notably, the company was recently awarded a major U.S. Air Force contract to develop the F-47 fighter jet, with a value exceeding $50 billion. This deal not only reinforces Boeing’s standing in the defense sector but also opens the door for sustained revenue inflows through the end of the decade.
In the commercial segment, Boeing secured a new order for 50 737 MAX jets from BOC Aviation. While this is a positive development for its civil aviation business, the stock paradoxically declined by 1.6% on the day of the announcement, closing at $170.55. The decline appears to have been driven more by macroeconomic factors—including inflation data and looming import tariffs—than by company-specific news.
Investors also remain cautious following Boeing’s disappointing financial results earlier this year. The company posted an annual loss of $11.8 billion for 2024, its second-largest on record. This was attributed to production setbacks, a machinists' strike, and continued scrutiny over safety and compliance. These issues continue to cast a shadow over the company’s turnaround narrative.
Short-term outlook for Boeing stock
Taking into account the current technical posture and broader market context, Boeing’s stock is likely to trade within a defined range in the short term. In a bullish scenario, a break above $190 could initiate a rally toward $200, particularly if Boeing delivers positive updates on its defense programs and addresses lingering safety concerns.
Conversely, a breakdown below $170 could signal weakness and open the door to a retest of the $160 level, especially if macroeconomic headwinds intensify or new operational problems arise.
Last week Boeing's stock rose 3.1% to $178.11 following the announcement of a major F-47 fighter jet contract with the U.S. Air Force. The deal boosted investor confidence in Boeing’s defense segment, triggering a bullish shift in momentum.