Boeing is currently grappling with a major strike from over 33,000 machinists, resulting in an estimated financial loss of $572 million so far, with projections indicating potential losses could reach $3.5 billion. In response to the ongoing labor dispute, the company has begun furloughing tens of thousands of workers, including white-collar employees, amidst a hiring freeze and cuts in purchasing. The company's stock price has struggled to rally as the strike intensifies. Negotiations between Boeing and the machinists union continue, although progress has been reported as minimal. Striking workers express frustrations over proposed contract terms, with many stating their current wages are insufficient to meet living costs. Boeing's CFO has described the business climate as 'difficult', emphasizing the necessity of these furloughs as a strategy to conserve cash during the strike. Union leaders remain optimistic about their members' solidarity in the fight for a better contract.