Boeing Stock Drops 3.2% Amid Legal, Technical Challenges

On April 3, 2025, The Boeing Company's stock experienced a 3.2% drop in pre-market trading, reflecting investor concerns and market sentiment.

Boeing's CEO, Kelly Ortberg, recently disclosed that the company is in discussions with the U.S. Department of Justice to modify an earlier plea agreement related to the 737 MAX aircraft incidents. The original agreement, reached in 2021 following two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, is under scrutiny after a 737 MAX aircraft experienced a mid-air incident in January 2024. The Department of Justice alleges that Boeing violated the terms of the 2021 agreement, leading to a court hearing scheduled for June 23, 2025, if a new agreement is not reached.

Additionally, Boeing is collaborating with NASA to address technical issues with the Starliner spacecraft, which has been grounded since September 2024 due to problems with its propulsion system, valves, and helium system. The companies are working to resolve these issues before the next scheduled manned mission, which could take place later this year or in early 2026. NASA and Boeing are conducting tests on the Starliner's propulsion system and a new helium system seal to ensure the spacecraft's safety and reliability for future missions.