Stock in Focus: The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA)

[Reuters] The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) announced plans to raise output of 737 jetliners to 52 a month in 2018, from 42 currently, a record for the already blistering pace of production. The move, while widely expected, shows Boeing's confidence that its own factory and its network of parts suppliers can step up to the fastest-ever rate for Boeing's single-aisle jet. After the increase, annual production of 737 aircraft is expected to rise to an all-time high of more than 620, Boeing said.The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) had already announced plans to raise monthly production of 737 jets to 47 in 2017, and had signaled for weeks that it was studying a further step up, citing "incredible pressure" from airlines, especially low-cost carriers, that are eager to refresh their fleets and expand amid rising air travel.Stock PerformanceTaking a look at the company’s recent performance, The Boeing Company (BA) reported second quarter earnings for fiscal year 2014 on July 23^rd 2014. The company reported actual earnings per share of $2.42 against the consensus Street estimate of $1.98.This represents year over year growth of 30.99%. BA posted revenue of $22.05 billion against estimates of $22.47Billion. BA is currently valued at $86.80 billion and closed the last trading session at $120.45. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $126.74 and a 200-day moving average of $127.86.

Is this a Buying Opportunity?There are currently twenty three analysts that we track that cover the stock. Of those twenty three, fifteen have Buy rating, seven have a hold rating and one has Sell rating. On a consensus basis this yields a score of 2.61 and a buy. The combined price objective of these covering analysts is $150.34, which represents a 20.59% upside difference to the last closing price.The most recent analyst activity consisted of Sterne Agee Reiterating Rating with Buy stance on the company. Sterne Agee has a price target of $164 to 127.38 which represents an upside of 31.55% from the last closing price. On the date of the report, the stock closed at $12.67.Another research firm weighing in recently was Barclays who also Reiterated rating with overweight coverage on the stock. On September 08^th2014 Barclays upgraded their price target on the stock $147 to $155 or a 21.11% upside to the current price. On the day of the report, BA shares closed at $127.98.Company ProfileThe Boeing Company (NYSE:BA), together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, sells, services, and supports commercial jetliners, military aircraft, satellites, missile defense, human space flight, and launch systems and services worldwide. The company operates in five segments: Commercial Airplanes, Boeing Military Aircraft, Network & Space Systems, Global Services & Support, and Boeing Capital. The Commercial Airplanes segment develops, produces, and markets commercial jet aircraft for various passenger and cargo requirements, as well as provides related support services to the commercial airline industry. This segment also provides aviation services support, aircraft modifications, spares, training, maintenance documents, and technical advice to commercial and government customers. The Boeing Military Aircraft segment is involved in the research, development, production, and modification of manned and unmanned military aircraft and weapons systems for the global strike and vertical lift, mobility, surveillance, and engagement.