As Boeing Co ( BA ) continues to tread a turbulent trajectory, with its stock down 32% YTD, investors are getting more anxious with each passing day. Now, with the company reporting in 8 days, investors and analysts are pivoting their attention to its Q1 earnings.

Boeing’s New CEO Appointment – A Pivotal Moment

In a note, RBC Capital Market analyst Ken Herbert highlights the critical decision Boeing ( BA ) faces in appointing its new CEO.

While mentioning Larry Culp, Pat Shanahan, and Wes Bush as the top candidates for the position, Herbert identifies Culp as the “clear favorite” among investors for Boeing’s future. According to Herbert, Culp’s leadership could mark the beginning of a new era, focusing on crucial aspects like balance sheet management, execution improvement, and restoring confidence among customers and suppliers.

Herbert rates the stock Outperform, while reducing his price target from $225 to $215.

Boeing Has Been Facing A Turbulent Trajectory

The last six analyst review and ratings on Boeing ( BA ) stock (since April 8) have seen price targets for the stock being reduced. See details here.

Investor anticipation is high, recognizing the potential for a significant stock catalyst upon the CEO announcement.

Boeing ( BA ) has consistently made headlines since January. On April 9, Benzinga reported on the series of events that have influenced Boeing’s stock performance since then.

In just the past few days, new developments have emerged that continue to impact the stock and heighten investor concerns.

April 12: Southwest Faces Further Reductions In Expected Boeing Jet Deliveries: Report

April 15: Delta Flight Returns To Atlanta After Takeoff: Boeing 757 ‘Yawing Aggressively’

April 16: Boeing Severs Ties With Lobbying Firm Involved In 737 Max Crisis Management: Report

Consequently, the stock is down 3.8% over the past 5 days.

Boeing’s Operational (In)Efficiency Concerns BofA Securities’ Analyst

Meanwhile, BofA Securities’ Ronald J. Epstein drew attention to Boeing’s recent delivery pace. Per Aero Analysis Partners/AIR, Boeing ( BA ) delivered only three 737s by mid-April amid ongoing FAA inspections. Concerns loom over the company’s operational efficiency.

While Boeing ( BA ) grapples with market share losses and reputational risks, BofA maintains a Neutral stance on the stock, acknowledging both the company’s participation in the aerospace recovery and its challenges. Epstein has a price target of $190 on the stock, implying an upside of 12%.

As Boeing ( BA ) undergoes management transitions and faces government investigations, investors are confronted with balancing short-term uncertainties against the long-term prospects of global air travel demand.

BA Price Action: Boeing ( BA ) stock was up 1.05% at $169.59 at the time of publication Tuesday.

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