BlackRock to Cut More Than 1% Jobs in Second Round of Layoffs

Core Viewpoint - BlackRock, Inc. is planning to cut 300 jobs, which represents over 1% of its workforce, as part of a strategy to realign resources following significant acquisitions and rising employee expenses [1][9] Group 1: Workforce Changes - The planned job cuts are the second round of reductions in 2025, following an earlier announcement in January to cut around 200 jobs [1][9] - BlackRock's employee count increased by more than 14% since 2023 due to acquisitions, including Global Infrastructure Partners and Preqin Ltd. [2][9] - Employee compensation and benefits expenses rose by 7% in the first quarter of 2025, prompting the need for workforce realignment [2][9] Group 2: Growth and Acquisitions - BlackRock is well-positioned for growth with a solid assets under management (AUM) balance, product diversification, and enhanced private market capabilities [3] - The company has committed over $25 billion for acquisitions to expand its reach in private-market assets and data [4] - The acquisition of Preqin for $3.2 billion is expected to provide highly recurring revenues, enhancing profitability and positioning BlackRock as a leader in private markets data [5] Group 3: Future Projections - The acquisition of HPS Investment Partners for $12 billion is projected to increase BlackRock's private markets fee-paying AUM and management fees by 40% and 35%, respectively [6] - The deal is expected to be modestly accretive to BlackRock's adjusted earnings per share in the first year post-close [6] Group 4: Market Performance - Year-to-date, BlackRock shares have declined by 3.9%, while the industry has seen a decline of 11% [8]