Boeing stock upgraded as growth prospects improve after controversies

In April 2025, Boeing is demonstrating signs of recovery from several controversies that have plagued the company over the past few years, particularly the 2024 incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 that experienced a door malfunction mid-flight. Bernstein analyst Douglas Harned has analyzed this situation and upgraded Boeing's stock rating from market perform to outperform, confident about the company's growth trajectory moving forward. This upgrade also comes with an increased price target of $218 per share, representing about a 23% upside from its recent closing price of $177.95. Harned emphasizes that though Boeing remains under scrutiny for its recent operational challenges and safety concerns, including the infamous 737 Max crashes from 2018 and 2019, the company is making crucial strides towards reclaiming its reputation and achieving sustainable growth. This news highlights the investor optimism surrounding Boeing, reflecting a potential turning point for the company as it works to enhance its operational practices and regain consumer trust in the aerospace market. Despite its tumultuous past and ongoing challenges, Harned believes that once Boeing stabilizes its growth path and navigates persistent headwinds related to supply chains, it is well-positioned for a significant rebound. Investors are encouraged to remain hopeful as Boeing is predicted to recover and return to the trends that previously saw the stock trading on momentum during favorable market conditions. As Boeing addresses its controversies and improves its practices, many analysts are keenly watching the market for signs of solid growth momentum, drawing parallels to the company’s previous successful runs. Given the dynamic financial landscape and investors' appetite for resilient companies, the journey ahead for Boeing could potentially reshape its market position in favor of long-term shareholders who are willing to bet on the company's comeback.