Microsoft Lays Off 9,000 Workers, Or About 4% Of Global Workforce, Citing “Dynamic Marketplace”

Core Insights - Microsoft is laying off approximately 9,000 workers, which constitutes about 4% of its global workforce, as part of organizational changes to adapt to a dynamic marketplace [1] - The company had previously laid off 6,000 employees in May, indicating a trend of workforce reduction following a period of expansion [2] - The rise of AI is reshaping the tech sector, with digital tools replacing certain roles, particularly in computer programming, prompting significant investments in AI infrastructure by Microsoft and other tech firms [3] Company Strategy - Microsoft emphasizes cost-saving through AI, with CFO Amy Hood stating the focus on building high-performing teams and increasing agility by reducing management layers [4] - The company has a history of acquisitions, which have not always been smoothly integrated, and the latest layoffs include a focus on de-layering management [5]