Is Boeing Stock a Buy Before Jan. 28?

Boeing's Operational Goals for 2025 - Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) needs to achieve a consistent monthly output of 38 737 MAX jets before planning any production expansion, which is critical for restoring confidence, profitability, and cash flow [3] - Investors are keen to hear updates on the 777X program, which is expected to have its first delivery in 2026 [3] - Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) must pass key milestones to reduce risks on fixed-price development programs that have caused multibillion-dollar losses and aim to return to consistent profitability [4] Boeing's Earnings and Investor Confidence - Boeing's Q4 2024 earnings will be released on Jan 28, with investors focusing on CEO Kelly Ortberg's outlook and the company's operational improvements [1] - The company's cultural transformation is a long-term effort, and small quarterly earnings variations are unlikely to make a significant impact [5] - Restoring investor confidence in Boeing's guidance is crucial, as past CEOs have clung to unrealistic targets, such as the $10 billion free cash flow (FCF) goal for 2025/2026, which Wall Street analysts now expect to be$5.4 billion in 2026 [7][8] BDS Segment Challenges and Adjustments - BDS faces challenges with fixed-price programs, and Ortberg has emphasized the need to work with customers to find trade-offs that benefit both parties [10] - The segment still lacks a permanent CEO after Ted Colbert's departure in September, adding to the uncertainty [6] Investment Potential and Outlook - Boeing has a half-trillion-dollar backlog and continues to secure orders from airlines, indicating potential for growth [12] - Investors are advised to wait for the earnings report to assess Ortberg's plans for 2025, including progress on 737 MAX production and BDS's return to profitability [13]